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Commissioner raises idea for Big Creek coal‑miners memorial park; court asks staff to run numbers
Summary
A commissioner proposed exploring a walking track and memorial park in the Big Creek area to honor mining heritage and provide recreational space; the court asked staff to identify possible properties and cost estimates, but no commitment or funding was made.
A commissioner asked the Fiscal Court to study the feasibility of a coal‑miners memorial park and walking track for the Big Creek area, citing the area's mining history and limited recreational facilities.
The proposal — described as an early‑stage idea — would include a shelter, playground elements and a walking track, and could also serve as a coal miners memorial recognizing the area's history. The commissioner emphasized that the item was preliminary: no site had been selected and no funding was identified.
County officials responded with cautions about the county's fiscal condition and operating costs. Judge Jones noted that coal and mineral severance receipts have declined steeply since 2009 and warned that building new facilities increases maintenance obligations. Paul, public works, said staffing and ongoing maintenance would be a limiting factor, noting the county currently uses inmate crews and has fewer paid employees than in past years.
Commissioners asked staff to look for potential donated property or sites near planned facilities (including land adjacent to a proposed fire station) and to prepare ballpark cost estimates for a walking track and minimal play equipment. They also discussed alternatives such as using existing parks and whether population and usage would justify a new park.
No funding, purchases, or formal commitments were made at the meeting; the court asked staff to return with numbers and property options.
