DECATUR — About 50 people attended a public forum and “unofficial opening” of the new west-side Benton County road department complex in Decatur Monday evening.
County Judge Bob Clinard and numerous county officials, department heads and employees attended as citizens got to look at the new 10,000-square-foot building located on 9.5 acres in northwest Decatur.
Cost of the entire complex, which includes numerous vehicle and machinery bays and supportive office space, was about $800,000, Judge Clinard said. The complex includes a large fenced parking area and will serve the road department in its western Benton County operation.
Judge Clinard told the group the road department has been consolidated in a new format for better and smoother operation. Scott Stober is County Road Directorof the entire operation, which includes supervisors in charge of trucks, graders, construction and maintenance.
The operation will see road crews and equipment dispatched to areas where needed throughout the county, and the Decatur facility will serve as a base headquarters for much of the operation.
“Crews will be all over the county as consolidated teams,” the Judge explained.
Among elected officials who spoke were Assessor Bear Chaney, who explained that the county has just completed its 5-year reassessment cycle.
County Clerk Tina O’Brien said the Equalization Board will begin hearing appeals on assessments starting August 1 and persons may schedule an appointment. A form is available on the county website.
O’Brien also reminded those in attendance of the upcoming primary election May 22 and noted that April 23 is the deadline to register to vote in that election.
County Collector Gloria Peterson explained the tax collection process, and County Treasurer Deanna Ratcliffe explained how her office dispenses revenues to the various cities, schools and taxing entities.
County Coroner Dan Oxford said his office is one of the highest, if not the highest, rated in the state and pledged continued professionalism from the office and staff.
Rep. Mary Lou Slinkard noted the importance of how the state and county interact and said those with state questions should contact state elected officials and offices.
Judge Clinard said all county officials meet together each month, something that is rare in county government throughout the state. He said that cooperation among the various offices, which are independent, is excellent.
The Judge dropped a hint that the county courthouse operation “might someday move out of downtown Bentonville.” He compared the 1928 building to a Model T and said it “is a nightmare for security.” He noted that “discussions” about the courthouse are being raised.
Several years ago, a proposal to move the operation to a location off Highway 102 (near the jail complex) was nixed.
It was stressed at the meeting that people maysecure information about any of the county offices and their operations, and the various departments may be contacted, by going to the “Benton County” website.
News, Pages 3 on 04/18/2012