Future of ferry put in jeopardy

Standard Democrat

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- After nearly three years of being back in service, the future of the Dorena-Hickman Ferry is in jeopardy.

Commissioner Martin Lucas informed the Mississippi County Commission during Thursday's meeting that Gov. Bob Holden has eliminated the ferry's funding for the current fiscal year as part of his budget cuts.

Because Kentucky contributes on a matching basis, the net loss of revenue may be twice the $75,000 eliminated by Holden.

Commissioners agreed to take the issue up with Holden and send copies of the letter to other elected officials, including state Rep. Lanie Black.

Black said he is already aware of the problem.

"It's not a done deal," Black said. "People need to be patient. We're working very hard to work this out."