In a meeting lasting just under 20 minutes the Baxter County Quorum Court met Monday with a light agenda one day before their regularly scheduled time due to Tuesday’s Primary Election.
A notable moment happened at the very end of the meeting during the time for public comment. Sheriff John Montgomery shared his experience at the recent memorial service for the slain deputies in Christian County. He reported a packed auditorium and that law enforcement officers from as far as New York City and Dallas were in attendance. He said during the funeral procession not only did the opposing traffic pull over but hundreds of people lined the highway as a sign of respect. The sheriff spoke with great emotion about how thankful he was to all local law enforcement and how they risk their lives daily to keep the community safe.
Judge Litty took a moment after regular business to speak on the recent report by ADEQ and that no violations were found at the old county quarry on County Road 69. The Judge said he hoped the report puts the matter to rest. He said crews would be transferring scrap from the property to the Methvin Transfer Station this week. He also stated that water test results from the quarry were available by visiting his office.
At the beginning of the meeting Treasurer Jenay Mize gave a report that sales tax was up nearly 7 percent over the same time last year. Last week was the exit interview for the 2024 Legislative Audit and that early results were positive.
Cameron Davis gave a recap on the Economic Development Committee meeting on Feb. 10. A bid was accepted for Strider Consulting to survey 2 parcels at the Baxter County Airport.
In new business, an appropriation passed unanimously for the transfer of the $15,000 of donated funds to the 2026 Coroners Budget to purchase a 2019 Ford Pickup. County Coroner Sam Seamans said the vehicle will be used as a second unit by the office and that the vehicle would have 4 wheel drive which the office learned was important for access during recent winter weather.
Also passed unanimously was an ordinance appropriating fees and reimbursements in the amount of $7,336 in the month of January to Sheriff’s Office’s 2026 Budget. As well as an ordinance appropriating carryover funds in the amount of $60,000 from the Jail Maintenance and Operation Fund into the Jail Maintenance and Operation Fund 2026 Budget and $10,000 from the Drug Equipment Fund into the Drug Equipment Fund 2026 Budget.
Finally a resolution confirming the reappointments of Peter Kauth, Terry Buchman and Eddie Danhauer to the Northeast Lakeside Fire Department Board of Commissioners passed with all in favor.
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