Year in review: Official: Year 'busy, productive'

Editor’s note: Staff of The News asked area officials to summarize the highlights and low points of 2023 and to identify the highest priority of 2024. This is one in a series of those reports.

Curry County Manager Lance Pyle described 2023 as one the most “busiest and productive years” the county has had.

Pyle said the County Commission has been working rigorously this year to receive federal and state grants. He said some of the highlights of the year include the completion of the courthouse addition and renovations, and a new cooperative extension services office with programming space.

He said County Commission decisions in the past year have not only benefited the county but also the residents.

“This commission works very well together and that has allowed for many successes and others that will be forthcoming in 2024,” Pyle said.

Commissioners have started the groundbreaking of the 57,216 square feet multi-purpose livestock pavilion as one of the top three projects for the community.

Pyle said one low point of 2023 was the unexpected passing of County Sheriff Mike Reeves on Dec. 4.

“He had many great ideas and plans for the Sheriff’s Office and losing him has been extremely hard for the county and for our community,” Pyle said.

Commissioners last week appointed Under Sheriff Michael Brockett to serve as sheriff until a new sheriff is elected in November. Pyle said Brockett has worked for the county for over 22 years.

“He is a strong and knowledgeable leader, and has played a vital role with law enforcement in our community and has received state funding for three school resource officers. As sheriff, Brockett will expand on Sheriff Reeves’ goals for Curry County and we look forward to his future successes,” Pyle said.

For 2024, Pyle said residents can look forward to multiple improvements at the Events Center and fairgrounds. He said other priority projects include demolition of the old juvenile detention facility, to create more parking with security fencing for the judges and deputies.

The county’s top priority for the upcoming legislative session is funding for roads. Pyle said the roads need attention and require revenue to maintain them.

“The community can expect to see another year of construction and improvement projects and we are actively applying and working to bring additional funding to the county for infrastructure, additional services and programs,” Pyle said.

Pyle said 2024 will be a “big election year” with seven of the 10 elected officials’ seats up for election -- three commissioners, treasurer, clerk, assessor and sheriff.