The Marion County Quorum Court took action on several infrastructure and facility projects during its meeting Tuesday evening, marking progress on bridge replacements, community center updates, and courthouse repairs.
Court members unanimously approved a resolution authorizing Marion County Judge Jason Stumph to explore financing options for the county's $2.6 million contribution required to replace five bridges and low-water crossings damaged in a 2024 flooding event. The total project is projected to cost $10.5 million, with the bulk of the funding expected through the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Program, which covers 80 percent of the expenses.
To support upgrades to the Marion County Community Center in Yellville, the court authorized the Marion County Office of Emergency Management to apply for a grant to improve the building's accessibility and sheltering capabilities. The proposed upgrades, estimated at $326,202, include parking lot and ramp improvements as well as changes to the building itself to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If approved, the county would contribute approximately $65,020 toward the project.
The court passed several additional measures, including:
- Approval of $35,000 in unappropriated funds to repair the county clerk’s basement window and install HVAC systems on the main floor and in the courthouse basement. - Creation of a new special fund for federal accounting and auditing purposes. - A budget amendment to add a part-time deputy position for the Marion County Collector’s Office.
Additionally, $150,000 was approved to transfer from the sales tax solid waste/recycling fund to the utilities waste disposal fund. The funds will be used to pay Waste Connections for compactor pickups at the Marion County Transfer Station.
The court also amended an ordinance to fund the installation of an automatic door system and entrance modifications at the Marion County Library.
The meeting concluded in under 30 minutes at the Marion County Courthouse.