Bradley County Quorum Court passed the 2024 county budget Monday night, totaling about $6.48 million.
The meeting saw the return of Justice Jim Anders after several months of medical problems and the seating of new Justice Don Schwebel.
By Tim Kessler
Saline River Chronicle Contributor
As passed, the budget ordinance includes $2.48 million, general fund; $2.8 million, road fund; and $1.2 million, solid waste fund.
County Judge Klay McKinney explained that the solid waste budget includes a five-year contract with GetRidOfIt. The solid waste program will go from being run by the county to having contracted labor. The company will pick up household garbage five days a week (except holidays) with about 900 miles and 1,500 homes per week.
The move will eliminate two to three jobs and includes the company purchasing a county truck for $280,000, with the net result being a $90,000 net gain for the county. An ordinance to sell the truck was passed separately.
McKinney also emphasized that he didn’t anticipate including raises for elected officials in the budget until 2026.
In other action:
- Chief Operating Officer Leanna Williams of Bradley County Medical Center reported the Meditech computer software program would begin operation on Jan. 23.
- McKinney said the Road Department had started working four 10-hour shifts which will continue into next year. More grader operators are needed.
He also noted that landfill costs have gone up significantly in the past few years. He said he had discussed the situation with Drew County Judge Jessie Griffin and they have noted that the two counties are about the only ones in South Arkansas that still take in other counties’ trash. He said Bradley County might have to consider a landfill cost increase and more restrictions to be considered at the January Quorum Court meeting.
- McKinney gave the annual report on the county. Among highlights were the renovation of the bell tower, tearing down a block of city buildings and the county acquiring that land, acquisition of another 2 ½ acres and foundation work done on the proposed Emergency Services Building.
“We still have some great challenges ahead for Bradley County,” McKinney said. He gave his appreciation for cooperation with Warren Mayor Gregg Reep, who was present. Reep said that McKinney was one of the first officials that he met with upon reentering office.
Justice Pat Morman said he appreciated the work done by the judge, mayor and Sheriff Herschel Tillman. Justice Bobby Hargrave also noted the great work done by the hospital.