By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.—Long-time Henry County Airport Manager Don Davenport was presented the Loyal Patriot Award by Henry County Mayor Brent Greer at Monday night’s meeting of the county commission, in recognition of Davenport’s service to the county.
The Loyal Patriot Award is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an individual by the county.
Davenport is retiring after two decades as airport manager, a time period which has seen immense growth at the Airport.
Greer described Davenport as a “true servant to the county—and to his country”, noting his military service along with his service to Henry County. “He has done a tremendous job,” Greer said. “The airport is the front door to the community and he really made that true.”
Henry County Airport is one of the best small general aviation airports in the state, Greer said.
Commissioner Dell Carter, who is chairman of the county’s airport committee, noted that the committee has few meetings “because Don does such a good job. He does it all and that’s why we don’t have to meet a lot. It will take a lot to fill his shoes.”
Davenport thanked Greer and the commissioners for the honor. “I think you for supporting me for 20-plus years and thank you for the recognition. It’s very special.”
In other business:
With one commissioner voting no, the commission approved paying $7,500 more toward restoration of the 1927 American LaFrance fire engine that was used decades ago by the city of Paris Fire Department.
Historical Society President David Webb—who is also a County Commissioner—reported that unexpected expenses have arisen in the restoration of the fire engine. Pipestone Restoration in Waverly is performing the restoration. The company is completely taking the fire engine apart and restoring it from the frame up, Webb said.
“We’re getting $100,000 in free labor for this,” Webb said. “Once fully restored, it will be a show stopper.” He noted the fire engine will be used for a variety of activities, including parades, funerals, the Henry County Fair, local festivals and more.
The goal for restoration is $32,000, which included $5,000 each from the city of Paris and county; $5,000 from BPU Roundup; $2,000 Helping Hand; $3,000 from the public and the Historical Society.
Noting that the fire engine is over 90 years old, Webb said problems encountered have included dry rot on the wheels, three leaks in the motor, replacing old bolts, rotten running boards, pitted gas tank which had to be completely replaced. He also noted that COVID-19 has increased expenses, including paint, especially red paint which is the most expensive.
Webb noted that Dave Miles of Pipestone Restorations offered to restore it if materials were paid. Webb said several items already have been taken off the list including a $4,000 trailer which will be purchased later.
On behalf of the Historical Society, Webb requested another $7,500 from the county and will make the same request of the city of Paris.
Greer said he appreciated all the hard work by Webb on the project and noted that while COVID-19 has caused a lot of problems, it also has provided a lot of opportunities, with grant monies available. “We are in a financial position to do something like this,” Greer said, “and the value to the community will far exceed what we’ve put into it.”
Commissioner Randy Gean said he’s heard comments from people in his district saying the county shouldn’t put more money into the project.
Commissioner James Travis said, “We’ve put lot into it, but I don’t see how we can leave them stranded in the restoration. The return for us will be more than we’ve invested.”
The payment of $7,500 was approved, with Randy Gean voting no.
–The commission unanimously approved an amendment to the county’s agreement for a Broadband Access grant with WK&T Telecommunications cooperative which calls for WK&T to apply at least $3 of its own funds toward constructing the broadband network, plus any additional amount necessary to fulfill its commitments under the agreement. WK&T will pursue grants and other funding opportunities from a variety of sources.
At an earlier meeting, the commission unanimously approved the project which will provide broadband throughout Henry County.
Greer noted that he received a phone call from a think tank in Minnesota about the project. “This is cutting edge stuff. It’s gathering notice, so it’s important that what we do, we do right.”