The Jackson Parish Recreation Department Complex already offers more amenities than most any in north Louisiana. It is soon going to become second to none thanks to the approval of the Jackson Parish Recreation Board who agreed to move forward with a multi-million dollar outdoor pavilion project.
Board member’s Brent Barnett, Ricky Cash, Brandon Lamkin, Rodney Potts, Sullivan Stevens and Chris Womack unanimously agreed to move forward with the project at their July 20th meeting after engineer Paul Riley of Riley Company in Ruston discussed the plans and costs involved for construction. Jeff Hairston was absent.
Per Riley, the budget money would consist of the following:
- $278,000.00 to be paid by the state
- $250,000.00 – $400,000.00 to be paid by the Jackson Parish Police Jury
- $1,722,000.00 – $1,872,000.00 to be paid by Jackson Parish Recreation District (depending on how much the JP Police Jury provides)
“This is a great day for the people of Jackson Parish,” said Recreation Director Tommy Smith. “To be able to have an outdoor pavilion on the grounds is something that we have been wanting for years. Thanks need to be given to our board members who have worked diligently to make this dream come true.”
Once completed such long standing traditions that have gone by the wayside over the past years as the Jackson Parish Rodeo and Play Days can take place again. The pavilion also will allow for many additional parish activities to take place as well.
In other action the board agreed to enter into a $8,287.01 Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Town of Chatham to purchase 4 trash receptacles, 4 surface mount pedestals, 4 picnic tables and concrete for pads.
Nathan Crane of Watermark Golf presented his findings for the golf course renovation program and the board rejected all bids for the LCWF tennis courts. Director Smith gave an update on the ongoing summer sports programs, Rebecca Williams did the same on the golf course and all financials and minutes from June were approved.
The next regular scheduled meeting was set for Monday, August 17th at 12:00 noon at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro.