Adair County Judge Executive delivered his “state of the county” address at the Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Tuesday. Bryant’s focus was on the progress of Adair County.
Judge Bryant said that he was happy to welcome new businesses both large and small to Adair County, recognizing that they had choices on where to locate.
“Things are positive, things are moving forward. Our community seems like it is moving forward every day with new opportunities,” said Bryant.
Bryant reported that Circor Pumps, located at 211 Industrial Park Rd., is planning an expansion in Columbia. While Bryant offered some details, a formal announcement is expected soon.
Bryant said according to state data, there are 4100 people who leave Adair County each day to work. Bryant said that number seemed exceptionally large to him. He hopes with the improvements to the industrial park that Adair County can attract factories to employ these people and keep them in Adair County.
He said that when he first came into office, he was informed that the state would not send money to the county or a committee for tourism. There must be a tourism director in place to be accountable for the funds. Bryant said that he made the decision to appoint Paige Nickel as director of tourism.
“Paige has done an outstanding job. Any time people come to town, they spend money for the most part,” said Bryant.
The county’s budget, according to the reports that were handed out, is $10.2 million. Of that, the general fund is 28.45 percent of the budget, the road department is 23.96 percent, and jail 23.97 percent. These three departments consume over three-fourths of the budget alone.
“This year, I am forced by state law to retain 35 percent of the county’s budget to have in place for next year so that the new administration comes in, new magistrates, new judge, whatever, I’ve got to have 35 percent in place,” said Bryant.
Bryant said that he had made several appointments during his time in office, and he is proud of each of them. He has appointed two sheriffs, two jailers, a coroner, and numerous board members.
Other topics that he discussed include the expansion of the recycling center, which allows the center to take in additional products and receive higher payouts for the recyclables. The recycling center is operated by one full-time employee and Class D inmates.
Bryant focused on positive change for the county, bringing new industry into the community, and making Adair County a great place to call home.
By Amy Pike
amy@adairvoice.com
