06/11/2026
Quorum Court Meeting Update
Monday, June 8, 2026
A little later than usual, but Monday through Wednesday consisted of all-day training with Jonesboro Public Schools administrators, and Maggie, Tate, Harvey, and I have spent most evenings this week at Joe Mack Campbell Park for baseball.
Justice of the Peace Steve Cline filled in for County Judge Marvin Day as Chair.
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM.
The invocation was given by Mr. Dick Blackford of Stoneridge Church of Christ.
My notes indicate Justice of the Peace Terry Couch led the Pledge of Allegiance. If I am mistaken, please let me know.
The roll was taken, and there was only one absence. Justice of the Peace Brad Noel was absent. Twelve members were present.
Old Business
• None
New Business
A. Sheriff's Department Presentation
This presentation was given by Sheriff-Elect Jason Allen. The data covered inmate intake numbers, percentages, and calls for service. I asked whether the data was generally consistent with the previous two years, and Sheriff-Elect Allen stated that it was.
B. Office of Emergency Management Presentation
This presentation was given by Director of the Office of Emergency Management, Mr. Anthony Coy. Director Coy highlighted the service and volunteerism of seven individuals and spoke about the contributions each has selflessly given to our community. All seven received an immediate standing ovation and round of applause from those in attendance.
Announcements
• None
Public Comment
Several individuals spoke against a proposed gravel pit on County Road 780. No one present spoke in favor of the application.
Concerns raised by citizens included diminished property values, dust, road damage, increased traffic, impacts on Arkansas State University cross-country runners and local cyclists, speeding concerns, and drainage issues.
Early in the meeting, I made a motion to allow speakers to continue beyond the normal three-minute public comment limit if they wished to do so. Justice Longmire seconded the motion. It passed unanimously and was met with applause from many of the citizens present in the Quorum Court chambers.
Chair Cline noted that the approval or denial of the gravel pit application rests with the State of Arkansas and that Craighead County does not have jurisdiction over the permitting process.
I asked whether the Quorum Court could adopt a Resolution supporting or affirming the concerns expressed by citizens regarding the proposed gravel pit application. Chair Cline confirmed that such a Resolution would be permissible if supported by the court.
A member of the audience later remarked that a Resolution from the Quorum Court would carry significant weight and help affected property owners. Several citizens expressed similar sentiments during public comment.
Justice of the Peace Richard Rogers moved to adjourn to committee. Unfortunately, I failed to note who provided the second. The motion passed unanimously.
Final Thoughts
While this was a relatively short meeting on paper, I do want to acknowledge JP Steve Cline for chairing the meeting efficiently and professionally given the large turnout and significant public interest surrounding the proposed gravel pit on County Road 780.
I also want to thank every citizen who attended and shared their concerns. This type of civic engagement is exactly what elected officials need to hear and see. A concentrated and organized effort by citizens can and does make a difference. It certainly does to me.
My next Town Hall will take place in August. June and July can be difficult months to schedule around due to vacations, youth sports, family activities, and summer travel.
This Town Hall will focus primarily on ballot initiatives and ballot measures, most notably the proposal to eliminate the office of Craighead County Treasurer, currently held by Terry McNatt. I am currently finalizing plans for panelists who will join me for each topic and will announce the date, time, location, and panel participants within the next month.
Once again, thank you for the opportunity to serve you and your neighbors on the Craighead County Quorum Court. It is both a blessing and an honor that my family and I take seriously and appreciate every day.
If you have any questions, concerns, ideas, or issues, regardless of whether you think the Quorum Court can directly address them, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Cell: 870-897-0680
Email: [email protected]
Thank you, and God Bless.
