A resolution supporting the I-57 expansion and approval of a 2017-2018 audit of the Independence County White River Hydroelectric Project are both on the agenda for Monday night’s Independence County Quorum Court meeting.
Following a recent, similar move by the city of Batesville, justices will look to approve a resolution that states, “The Independence County Quorum Court fully supports and recognizes the importance of ongoing efforts to expand Interstate 57.”
Last year, state officials recognized a corridor of U.S. Highway 67 as “Future Interstate 57.” The corridor, which stretches 120 miles between North Little Rock and Walnut Ridge, will provide a direct connection between Chicago, Ill. and Little Rock. The designation of I-57 is expected to encourage economic growth in northeast Arkansas.
The approval of a 2017-2018 audit of the county’s White River Hydroelectric Project is also on the court’s slate. The audit — conducted by Welch, Couch & Company, PA — shows the project reporting an operating income of $237,666 in 2018 with a net loss of just over $2 million. In 2017, the project reported an operating income of $653,917 and a net loss of over $1.5 million.
The Independence County Quorum Court will meet at 6 p.m., June 10, at the Jess B. Carpenter Building, 368 E. Main St. in downtown Batesville.
Get up-to-date local and regional news along with the latest sports and weather every weekday morning by listening to Gary B. and Ozark Newsline on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ. White River Now updates are also broadcast weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and 99.5 Hits Now. If you have a news tip or event to promote, email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow White River Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
