County reports on storm debris cleanup

OBSERVER CORPS REPORT
AGENCY: Madison County Fiscal Court
DATE: March 10, 2009
REPORTER: Howard Bowden

Convened 9:30 a.m at Courthouse in Richmond. All present

Treasurer’s Report: A new procedure has been initiated in which the county treasurer gives an oral as well as a written report to the Fiscal Court. Prior to this only the court members saw the report and could ask questions. Now the audience is made aware of the monthly fiscal state of the county and if desired can get a written copy from the treasurer This gives the citizens an opportunity to ask specific questions either at the meeting or afterward.

Order of Business

1. Energy and Empowerment - Megan Naseman, an AmeriCorps Vista volunteer working with Berea College, shared the powerful “Local Leaders in Action” power point presentation, which gave an overview of various energy projects happening in the county. She eloquently enlightened the Court as to the mission and activities of the Energy & Empowerment organizations. Gina Noe, Madison County Extension Agent, gave an overview of the upcoming Madison County Green Expo and invited all to attend the festivities.

2. Rural Secondary Roads - Each year the state allocates money to repair and/or resurface segments of the 143.8 miles of state rural secondary roads within the county. This year $933,000 will be used to resurface portions of KY state routes: 977; 1983; 374; and 595. The county road department will do the actual work and be reimbursed by the state.

3. Department Head Comments:
Road Department reported that crews have been through all the subdivisions twice, picking up debris from the ice storm. They are now operating on county roads and expect to be completed by the beginning of April. Wood chips are available at the drop off points, and they will load them for you.

Solid Waste reported that the first recycle runs on Monday and Tuesday yielded 6 tons of recyclables from 955 bins. The solid waste coordinator is still soliciting neighborhoods to take part in the program. There will be a tire amnesty on June 18, 19, and 20, but the site has not yet been confirmed. This will be a chance to get rid of your old tires without having to pay a fee