Court addresses numerous issues including debris

Plans are underway to expand the current Black River Area Development (BRAD) Head Start facility in Piggott to include infant care. Rhonda Ahrent, a representative of BRAD, spoke to the Clay County Quorum Court about the benefits of such an expansion during its regular meeting Monday night at the Piggott courthouse.

Ahrent cited the importance of offering additional childcare assistance for local families, while also creating additional jobs. The new classrooms would add 12 new positions at the site, increasing the total number of employees to 20.

The total cost of the expansion is estimated at $560,000.

What BRAD is asking from Clay County is its required involvement in applying for a loan for 35 percent of the cost, roughly $120,000. BRAD then will guarantee the payment of the loan through available funds. However, the county must be the party to apply for the loan.

The court approved the request, citing the step as a necessary part in moving forward with the project.

Veterans Memorial

Ed Thompson spoke to the court on behalf of a group of local veterans who are raising funds for a 40-foot lighted flagpole recognizing the service and sacrifice of all American veterans. The flagpole is to be placed on the walkway near the main entrance in front of the Piggott courthouse.

The group has raised approximately $2,500 for the project. Thompson asked the court for any available financial assistance on the project.

Thompson was uncertain what the total cost of the project would be. The court expressed an interest in offering aid.

"Get an estimate of the cost and we'll move from there," justice David Cagle said. "I think the court's interested in helping, especially since this will be located on county property, but we need to know more before we can move forward."

Sheriff's Department

The recent ice storm showed several areas of concern throughout Clay County. One of these concerns is the lack of a backup generator at the Clay County Jail. Sheriff Gerald McClung said he has been in contact with other departments and businesses to learn more about how best to proceed. According to McClung, he has been advised the jail may require two generators. McClung said he would know more following an evaluation of the jail site scheduled later this week.

McClung said the department has received payment in the amount of $35,000 from the Arkansas Department of Corrections for housing prisoners from other counties. McClung said his department has continued a strong working relationship with Greene County in housing prisoners. McClung said he also has been assured by Craighead County officials that Clay County also will be used to house their prisoners as needed. McClung said the jail currently is housing 65 prisoners. The department averages approximately $27,000 in revenue per 30 day period from housing prisoners.

County Brush Piles

Judge Gary Howell noted the concern of many county residents in regard to the numerous brush piles located along county roads and in small communities.

"The big holdup seems to be the burn permits," Howell said.

Howell said the county currently has permits to operate four burning sites, as allowed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The county has used a total of 11 burning sites in the past. The small number currently approved by the EPA has slowed the process of destroying the downed limbs and trees.

Howell said there is an estimated 32,000 cubic yards of brush gathered along the roads, but noted that number is a more recent estimate taken after much of the debris has been cleared. While there still are piles along the roadways, this brush is not blocking access to any of the roads.

Howell said he expects to talk with FEMA officials this week on the matter.

In other business, the court:

* Approved the minutes from the February meeting.