A recent search for a Pike County teen in the Big Sandy River drew attention to the need for a rescue boat, according to Pike County Magistrate Jeff Anderson.

The Millard Volunteer Fire Department conducted the search, which has so far been unsuccessful, since the county does not currently have the equipment needed for such an operation. The court is looking into the possibility of purchasing a boat, which would be equipped with radar and sonar. Initial cost estimates have been approximately $17,500.

After thanking volunteers for their efforts in the search, County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford made a motion the court work with the county treasurer to obtain funds to pay for a boat. The motion passed unanimously.

A group dedicated to keeping Pike County clean, Personal Responsibility in a Desirable Environment (PRIDE), commended Fiscal Court for its work in helping maintain the scenic beauty of the county.

Dr. Adam Akers, chairman of the board for PRIDE, recognized the work of all six magistrates along with Judge Rutherford, who spoke highly of the organization.

“You at PRIDE have made a real difference in Pike County,” Rutherford said.

District Six Magistrate Chris Harris agreed. “You have done a fantastic job. You have been a part of our spring cleanup and adopt a highway program every year, and are to be commended for that.”

In other county business, Frankie Stacy, purchasing agent for the county, said Pike County road maintenance has resulted in need for additional road salt to keep the county’s roads safe during inclement weather.

Recent icy conditions have caused the county road department to use all the road salt that had been purchased for this winter. However, by using all that supply, the county fulfilled its obligation with Morton, the company that supplied that salt, and allowed the county to purchase additional salt reserves at a better price.

“I have a quote from MidAtlantic, LLC, for salt at the price of $74 per ton, plus shipping costs,” Stacy said. “That is a better price than we had with the Morton.” He said the only other quote he received was for $179 per ton. He added that the county would be under no obligation to buy a minimum amount of salt from MidAtlantic, and the company could have the salt delivered three days after it receives orders from the county. The court approved a motion to accept the bid.

Magistrate Harris voiced some concerns about the methods Mountain Water District (MWD) uses to alert the public to issues such as ‘boil water advisories’. He said during once recent incident, an elderly couple whose water was deemed unsafe did not know about the problem.

MWD currently contacts local radio stations and newspapers as well as critical care facilities about problems. MWD plans to purchase an auto-dial system in place in the future to let citizens know if there are issues with their water supply, but that type of system is not currently in place.

Harris suggested the water company notify local television stations as well as radio and newspapers. The Court agreed.

Harris also asked the court to approve the repair of one of two engines at the pump station at the South Williamson section of the floodwall. The pumps will be used in the event of flooding. Harris said he was concerned that the spring flood season would find the pump not functioning, putting the community in danger of flooding. The court approved funding for the necessary repairs.