The Hope Lions Club heard from JP Steve Atchley and County Judge Jerry Crane on Monday. Atchley explained the 1 cent sales tax that is funding the purchase and renovation of the new courthouse is raising $250,000 to $270,000 monthly. He also noted the tax will sunset after June 2022. Atchley explained in detail the work on the three floors of the new courthouse. He also noted some of the problems the county had to deal with. The front doors to the building have been changed. Also, the new courthouse has a new HVAC system. Atchley said the new furniture will be there May 3rd and they hope to have the new courthouse open and occupied by June 1st.
Judge Crane noted the new courthouse has been a team effort and he said he thinks the new courthouse will bring downtown Hope back to life. The Judge said the new courthouse will be something the citizens can be proud of and also noted how the courtrooms have some outstanding technology.
Judge Crane gave an update on county roads. He detailed some problems the snow caused and also noted how the rain this year has hampered some of their efforts on the roads.