Interim County Judge Paul Hays Reports on Fiscal Court Special Meeting

Dear Community Members,

I am writing to update you on the decisions and progress from the Fiscal Court's emergency session on Thursday, July 30, 2026.

Road and Bridge Infrastructure Updates
- Bituminous Bids: The Fiscal Court approved the 2026-2027 fiscal year bids from the Allen Company.

- Road Repaving: We finalized an agreement with the Transportation Cabinet, Department of Highways, to repave two roads soon and are completing contract work to repave an additional four roads this season. Asphalt work will begin once our crew replaces obstructed road tiles. We are also submitting up to fifteen additional roads to the Transportation Cabinet for resurfacing consideration.

- Bridge Repairs: Emergency Road Funds were approved to repair the bridge on Cave Springs Road, with work beginning shortly. We are also applying for emergency funds to repair another bridge requiring immediate attention.

- Drain Tiles: We are applying for the 80-20 Bridge Project to purchase drain tiles, where the state funds 80 percent of the cost. Replacing these disintegrated tiles will prevent water blockage and costly road slips.

Our road crew has done exceptional work under challenging conditions following recent flood damage. They have documented over 100 separate road repairs in recent weeks and recently removed 17 fallen trees in a single day—including one containing honey bees that required professional assistance to clear safely. I greatly appreciate their hard work.

Courthouse Improvements & Public Participation
The Fiscal Court passed a resolution for proposed improvements to the old courthouse. We are seeking community volunteers to help remove damaged bricks from the steps to repair the area safely and cost-effectively.

Community Support
The Fiscal Court is providing financial support to the Jackson County Fair Committee. We look forward to a wonderful county fair with great food, music, and family entertainment.

Personnel Updates
In recent months, we have reduced our personnel significantly through attrition to operate within our budget. To ensure long-term fiscal balance, we have decided to fill vacancies from within and will not hire additional staff unless absolutely necessary.

Shay Hacker retired from my office this week after 26 years of dedicated service to the county. I deeply appreciate her efforts and send our best wishes to her and her family.

Thank you to the many citizens who continue to support our efforts. Every county department is working together to overcome obstacles and improve our community. I am proud of our employees and remain committed to making Jackson County a wonderful place to live.

God Bless us all.
Best regards,
Paul Hays