Pike County Quorum Court Awards Fairgrounds Repair Contract Following Storm Damage

The Pike County Quorum Court met Monday night and discussed the cost of repairing storm damage at the Pike County Fairgrounds.

The fairgrounds sustained damage during two separate storms earlier this year. Pike County Judge Eddie Howard reported that the county will receive funding from its insurance provider and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture (ADAM) to help cover repair costs.

According to Howard, repairs to the pavilion are expected to cost approximately $18,309, while repairs to another building are estimated at $13,386. However, he said the county is expected to have surplus insurance and ADAM funds remaining after repairs to the rodeo arena are completed.

Howard said he hopes those surplus funds can be applied toward the cost of repairing the other two structures. If approved, the county’s out-of-pocket expense would be reduced to approximately $7,420.

Howard also reported that Great Southern has donated $4,000 worth of lumber to assist with the repair efforts.

The quorum court awarded the repair contract to Chad O’Neil. Members encouraged him to begin work as soon as possible, noting that the Pike County Fair is scheduled for September.

Howard also informed quorum court members that the Pike County Landfill can no longer accept tires because of changes implemented by the state. He explained that the state increased disposal fees to $3 per small tire, $5 per large tire, and $275 per ton. Because the county is unable to accept cash payments at the landfill, it can no longer accept tires for disposal.

In addition, officials noted that Class I trash should not be disposed of at the Pike County Landfill. Class I waste includes non-hazardous materials such as paper, cardboard, and other recyclable or compostable items.

The quorum court also approved an ordinance amending the county budget to include reimbursement funds received following the March Primary Election.