Quorum Court Discusses County Issues

The February meeting of the Arkansas County Quorum Court was called to order by County Judge Eddie Best. An invocation was offered, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. County Clerk Melissa Wood conducted the roll call, and the minutes from the January meeting were approved. Justice Ahrens provided an update regarding the DeWitt Courthouse and discussed obtaining a quote for infrastructure improvements at the county jail and juvenile detention center.

Under New Business, Sheriff Johnny Cheek reported that the detention center currently houses 62 adult inmates, including 46 males, nine females, and seven Act 309 inmates. Additionally, three male juveniles are being held in juvenile detention. Sheriff Cheek noted that inmates have been returned to their regular housing units during daytime hours.

Members of the Court raised concerns regarding daily maintenance at the jail, noting that complaints have been received from both citizens and employees. Sheriff Cheek encouraged Quorum Court members to tour the facility, emphasizing that several areas require attention and improvement. He stated that updated technology is needed and that comprehensive repairs are necessary. While some grants have been secured, funding levels remain limited, requiring the facility to make do with temporary solutions.  Quotes received for rebuilding a while back are no longer any good.  Sheriff Cheek explained that during daytime hours, multiple guards are available to supervise inmates housed in pod-style cells; however, during evening hours staffing may be limited to one or two officers. For lockdown situations, a security bar can be placed in front of cell doors. He also reported that two additional staff members have been hired for the adult facility and one for juvenile detention.

Justice McLemore emphasized the importance of adequate nighttime supervision and inquired about the status of quotes for repairing locks and doors. Sheriff Cheek indicated that while parts may be obtained from a company capable of rebuilding components, specialized components are needed to complete the necessary repairs. He noted that ongoing maintenance issues have resulted in repeated repairs, often requiring work to be redone. The Court determined that obtaining a comprehensive and accurate repair estimate should be prioritized immediately.

Judge Best presented information regarding Delegate Selection for the upcoming April 18 meeting. Clerk Melissa Wood discussed Compensated Absences, noting that accrued leave may present a financial liability to the county, particularly for deputies and jail personnel who frequently work beyond 40 hours per week. She suggested that additional staffing could help alleviate overtime concerns.

Judge Best also addressed the Unpaved Road Grant in the amount of $26,049.20, appropriated for Arkansas Resources, and presented an amendment to the General Fund Budget in the amount of $300,000. Discussion followed regarding courthouse maintenance in DeWitt, with $212,000 allocated from unappropriated funds for the preservation of public health and safety at the Southern District Courthouse. Additionally, the 911 budget was increased by $350,000 to enhance emergency preparedness for 2026.

With no further business to come before the Court, the meeting was adjourned.