Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Gurdon had A Good 1995 (cont)

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"We, the board of directors, took the stand to not sit back and accept a rate increase as Saline County demanded," Smith said. "We filed suit and the court's decision was in our favor.

"We estimate this saved our district, which is comprised of Clark, Hot Spring and Garland counties, an estimated $300,000 over a four-year period."

The city's cemetery department managed to stay under budget by $25.49. Smith said workers were furnished by the Department of Community Punishment to help trim trees and do general cleanup work.

However, he said, the total expenses for the department were $5,450.

But the expenditure has been worth it because of the compliments received on the upkeep of Rose Hedge Cemetery.

While the park department operated under budget, there was one project it was unable to accomplish, Smith said.

This was because the cost to do it was more than anticipated. "We are in dire need of new restroom facilities at the Gurdon Lake," he said.

"I hope to receive assistance from an outside source to do this project. We added additional lighting at the City Park and the walking trail on Walnut Street. This," Smith continued, "was done for security measures as well as convenience for park users."

The mayor lauded the county landing Polycarbon at the Clark County Industrial Park.

"Folks," he said, "this didn't just happen. A lot of work went into recruiting this industry. The Clark County Industrial Park belongs to all of us.

"Myself and several others from Gurdon are on the (CCIC) board of directors to see that Gurdon has a say so. I'd like to thank all of the board and our president, Percy Malone, for the work expended this past year."

In closing, Smith said it's been a pleasure being of service to the community for 1995. "I hope you've been pleased, and if not, I hope you told me so," he said. "We can't always do everything everyone wants, but we try.

"This brings to mind, and I know I get caught repeating this, but -- get involved. I and your council are elected to serve you, and cannot do you justice if you don't speak up. If you see a problem, please let us know and try to help us find a solution."