Ninety-year-old Carl Jarvis concerned about handicapped access
Ninety-year-old Carl Jarvis of Minnora spent more time in the Calhoun County courthouse this week than he would have liked.
Jarvis has been before the Circuit Court for the better part of three days involved in a civil suit that dates back five years.
"One thing I have learned is how difficult it is to get to this (third floor) courtroom," said Jarvis, who is a double amputee and wheelchair bound.
He had to be carried up and down the long steps several different times.
"I was concerned about the lawsuit, but I also thought about the people who have handicaps and need to use this courthouse," Jarvis said. "I hope me talking about it will help."
While the American Disabilities Act has mandated handicap access, the county commission has been unable to raise funds to install an elevator, which is now estimated to cost at least $200,000.
Commissioner Larry McCallister said grant applications have been made every year for elevator money.
This year an application is being filed using a Small Cities Block Grant, he said, with the commission making a renewed effort to get the project going.
Jarvis said "I hope something can be done."
Jarvis then talked about the lawsuit, which involved the sale of timber on a piece of land that he felt belonged to him. When the timber was sold, the adjacent landowner claimed ownership and filed a $24,000 suit.
The suit was based on disputed surveys of the adjacent properties.
A jury ruled in favor of Jarvis late Thursday evening.
"They came up and wished me well, after it was all over," said Jarvis, referring to George and Carol Zadek, residents of New Jersey who once lived on the property.
"It's been pretty tiring for an old guy like me," concluded Jarvis, "but I have had some time to visit some old friends."
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