Spencer County advances Farmers Market pavilion work, conditions contractor payment on inspection

Spencer County Fiscal Court reviewed construction progress for the county’s Farmers Market pavilion and approved a contingent payment to the contractor on Monday.

County Judge Executive Scott Travis told the court the county “got a $300,000.00 check from the state for the Farmer’s Market/Pavilion last week,” and court members examined an application for payment from Elder Construction. The contractor’s application showed $48,600 certified as currently due after retainage and prior payments.

On a motion by Esq. Stump, seconded by Judge Travis, the court voted to release $48,600 to Elder Construction contingent on completion of the groundwork inspection. The motion passed with all members voting “aye” except Esq. Cotton, who recorded a “nay.” The court discussed on-site activity, with the judge noting concrete and plumbing crews were present and that the county staff have been in frequent communication with contractors.

At the same meeting Robert Jones of the Spencer County Conservation District presented the court with a $5,000 check to support dead-animal removal in the county. Jones said the district will email budgets and a plan of work after board approvals.

The court also approved other pavilion-related administrative transfers and discussed continuing oversight of the project as invoices and inspections are completed. The Judge said the board will consider additional budget transfers at a special called meeting on June 3, 2026.

Next steps: the contractor payment will be released once the county confirms the required groundwork inspection has been completed. The pavilion project remains under active oversight by the Fiscal Court.