Board hears park updates: successful 4‑H fair, pond lighting fundraiser and Smith Building repair plans

The Henry County Park Board heard a series of routine park updates, including a superintendent recap of the 4‑H fair, a volunteer report on a completed pond‑lighting fundraising campaign and a notice from the Veterans Museum about its August meeting.

Superintendent reported the 4‑H fair ran successfully though rainy conditions complicated staffing. He said multiple Smith Building air‑conditioning units failed during the fair; he repaired one by cleaning vents but will seek multiple quotes to repair or replace units. He said three units are functioning, one remains down, and a recent repair cost about $700. The superintendent plans to get quotes from two vendors and determine whether parts replacement or full unit replacement is more cost effective.

Chair reported the county has used ARP funds to pay for pothole paving and said about $3,200 remained in that account and must be spent before the end of the year. The board also noted the county highway department had sold patch material to park staff at cost to support road repairs.

A community volunteer (Sheldon) told the board the pond lighting project was complete, all bills paid, and that the effort had raised about $76,000 from local donors and organizations including the Henry County Community Foundation, Henry County Hospital Foundation, Henry County REMC and Duke Energy; plaques for sponsors are planned. Connie Greenberg, president of the Veterans Museum, reported on a successful June 20 event and invited residents to the museum’s annual meeting on Aug. 13 at 5 p.m.

The board asked staff to gather quotes for Smith Building repairs and to bring back recommendations at a future meeting.