Article by Emily Wang, White River Now
Election poll safety, road updates, and community programs were addressed during Monday’s Independence County Quorum Court meeting.
Independence County Judge Kevin Jeffrey gave an update on the condition of county roads, noting significant culvert replacements are underway, with ongoing work at the Spring Valley Bridge and Otter Lake. The county is waiting for asphalt to continue these projects.
On the recent renovation of Desha Park, Jeffrey said, “If you get a chance, drive out and look at it.” Jeffrey also encouraged the public to look at another renovation: “If you get a chance, go out and look at our bridge at Big Creek. It’s really impressive, and that road will get nicer as we go.”
The county is also making strides in expanding high-speed internet access. ARDOT is working on the fiber installation project in the Delta region, which aims to provide high-speed internet to every household in Arkansas. While waiting on money to be released for the continuation of the project, Jeffery noted the last phase of the project will include the “rocky areas.”
In new business, the court recognized the Southside 4-H program with a proclamation highlighting its positive impact on local youth. Over 100 children participate in various activities in the county, ranging from agriculture to performing arts.
“We are proud of our 4-H members and the opportunities they create for our youth,” said Michelle Mobley, a county extension agent with the University of Arkansas’s Division of Agriculture.
In the proclamation, Jeffrey said, “I proclaim October 6-12, 2024, National 4-H week throughout Independence County, Arkansas, and encourage all citizens to recognize 4-H or the significant impact they make.
The Independence County Election Commission provided updates on election security and preparedness, with Election Coordinator Cathy Drew emphasizing the importance of security measures at polling sites, including physical assessments and active shooter training for poll workers.
“The times we live in now are different than 10, 15 years ago, and we must prepare poll workers on what could happen,” Drew told the court.
Drew shared the concern expressed by poll workers and their desire to increase law enforcement presence at the polling sites if possible.
Drew also shared the election commission will work within their budget to purchase a few things for coworkers to help protect them.
“Simple things for a sense of security — many said they didn’t sign up for the possibility of losing their lives, they signed up for their civic duty. We want them to know how much we appreciate them.”
There will be 12 polling sites. Early voting will begin on Oct. 21 at the Batesville Community Center and Southside City Hall.
The court also approved an ordinance authorizing a transfer from fund 1006 ARPA Replacement Revenue Fund to Fund 1000 County General Fund, and an ordinance amending the annual budget for 2024 to establish a new fund and budget entitled “Juvenile Court,” with funds derived from a grant.
The next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 12.
Image of the Jess B. Carpenter Building by Gena Tate, White River Now
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