Wednesday morning’s political forum for Baxter County Judge presented by KTLO, Classic Hits and The Boot News saw roads, the old quarry and a bridge dominating the conversation between the candidates. The public forum held at the Food Bank of North Central Arkansas saw County Judge Kevin Litty face challenger Eric Payne who currently serves as Justice of the Peace for District 11.
With more than 700 miles of roads in Baxter County the candidates were asked how they would prioritize which roads are maintained and improved across the county. Judge Litty was up first to answer.
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Payne brought up the importance of a regular schedule of maintenance.
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Payne was asked on the changes at the Baxter County airport that saw a new advisory board established by Judge Litty after the removal of the previous commission. Payne at the time as a JP on the court voted against the changes.
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Judge Litty was asked how we would describe the condition of roads in the county after hearing that many Justice of the Peace candidates that debated the day before stated they were running because they were disgruntled with the state of the roads.
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The Judge was also asked to give an update on the Bennet’s Bayou bridge on County Road 46 which remains closed after being deemed structurally unsafe for motorists.
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At the recent Meet the Candidates Fish Fry hosted by Danny Woods, Payne discussed the need for transparency and that the budget needed to be fixed. Payne was asked at Wednesday’s forum for more specifics on what needed to be fixed and what it would cost.
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The candidates were both asked to speak on accusations that the water quality in the old quarry had made some people ill. Payne responded first saying it is the judge’s responsibility to test the water.
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The Judge responded stated he has had the water tested and that the complaints about the quarry have come from one citizen.
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To view and listen to the nearly one hour debate between the candidates for Baxter County Judge as well as candidates for Baxter County Sheriff visit the following link.
Baxter County Sheriff and Judge Political Forum Live from the Food Bank of NCA 02-11-26
Early voting begins Tuesday for the March 3rd Preferential Primary.
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