Future of the courthouse

When voters go to the polls on Tuesday, Feb. 2, and we hope that voters will indeed go to the polls, they will be able to have a say in the future of the Union County Courthouse in Jonesboro.

A sales tax referendum will be on the ballot which, if approved, would generate revenue for construction of a new Union County courthouse. A new courthouse would replace a structure which has been in use since the 1850s.

In anticipation of the primary election vote, county officials hosted tours of the aging courthouse on Monday morning of this week.

Turnout for the tours was light, which was unfortunate, but probably not totally unexpected.

Those who did visit the courthouse were able to see a structure which, while historically significant to our county, is, at this point, unable to meet the needs and demands of the 21st century.

We would encourage voters to pay a visit to the courthouse. Another round of tours is planned for Monday afternoon, Jan. 25. Take the opportunity to get a firsthand look at the facility. And then give thoughtful consideration on how to vote in the primary election. Have a say in Union County's future.

<strong>Success in Cobden</strong>

Nearly 50 people turned out Monday for the first "state of the village" town hall meeting held in Cobden.

The gathering offered an opportunity to reflect on the successes of the past year, and to look forward to further achievements in 2010 and beyond.

Cobden hosted a wide range of special events during 2009, including a highly successful community Christmas celebration and a farmers' market, both of which were new activities.

The coming year looks to be a promising one for the Union County village. Monday night's town hall meeting reflected a very positive sense of continued growth and development in Cobden