Authorities struggle with cuts

The Pike County commissioners finalized a $95,000 budget cut and the authorities impacted have struggled to deal with the cuts. The Industrial Development Authority budget was cut $19,023 and as a result dissolved a longstanding services agreement between the IDA and Chamber of Commerce. Chamber president Karen Brown was laid off with her last day being Feb. 25. The parks and recreation authority budget was cut $43,315 and the authority put the county’s largest celebration, Pride of Pike, on hold until it is certain the event will be affordable.Commissioners also cut the library board by $13,867, the Department of Family and Children Services by $6,406 and the agri-business authority by $2,499. The water and sewerage authority budget was cut $10,000. Chairman Tom Lacey said the water authority made as many cuts as possible and reserve funds can be released by the USDA if necessary.