Pike County Quorum Court Approves Public Comment Ordinance, Reviews Training Partnership

The Pike County Quorum Court recently met at the Pike County Courthouse, where justices heard presentations and approved several ordinances.

County Judge Eddie Howard opened the meeting by introducing Jack Herring, who spoke about a partnership between Pike County and the University of Arkansas Cossatot to promote an equipment operator course. Herring said he has been working directly with five Pike County employees to enhance their grader operator skills. He explained that the training included both classroom instruction and hands-on field work, covering techniques such as crowning roads, cutting ditches, and cleaning culverts. Herring said the employees were eager to learn and he hopes they apply the instruction in their daily work.

Judge Howard then recognized Justice Seth Kirkham, who discussed a proposed ordinance to amend quorum court procedures to include a public comment period. Kirkham said the goal was to establish clear guidelines allowing citizens to bring concerns before the full quorum court. Judge Howard also presented an alternate version of the ordinance prepared by Association of Arkansas Counties attorney Mark Whitmore. Following discussion, the quorum court unanimously approved the ordinance establishing a public comment and discussion policy, with an 8–0 vote.

The court also approved Ordinance 2026-2, which establishes flex credits in lieu of benefits for county employees who waive county insurance and are enrolled in alternative major medical coverage. The ordinance passed unanimously, 8–0.

In addition, justices approved Appropriation Ordinance 2026-3, amending the 2025 county budget to allow line-item transfers for budget cleanup purposes. That measure also passed with an 8–0 vote.

Before adjourning, the quorum court appointed Justice Johnny Plyler to serve on the governing body of the Quorum Court Association. The appointment was approved unanimously.