Howard County Quorum Court Approves Budget Adjustments, HMH Bonds Paid Off

The Howard County Quorum Court held their regular monthly meeting yesterday, where several financial updates and motions were discussed and approved.

Among the key actions taken, justices of the peace unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-9, addressing the county’s 2025 operating budget. The ordinance includes an increase of $19,494.95 for the Howard County Courthouse Security Grant – Other Miscellaneous, and an additional $4,651.88 for Howard County Elections – Other Professional Services.

Treasurer Sherri Mixon reported that over $6,000 and $52,405.50 had been spent from the Contingency Fund, which currently holds a balance of $3,254,504.81. Mixon also reported significant financial developments, including that the bonds for Howard Memorial Hospital were officially paid off last month.

Howard County Judge Brent Pinkerton told the court they were notified this summer that the hospital bonds had been paid off ahead of schedule, and he outlined what steps to expect moving forward.

Pinkerton also addressed the quorum court regarding the 2023 Legislative Audit Report.

County Clerk Kerri Teague informed the court that the county will receive a reimbursement from the IRS totaling $28,504.84, which includes $27,580 in reimbursement and $924.84 in interest.

In other business, the court approved a motion to pay $9,371 from the Contingency Fund to replace the unit at the Senior Citizen Building, based on a quote from Jimmy Mixon. Justices also granted permission for the Master Gardeners to add an extension to the Kid’s Club Building.

Additionally, the court approved the terms for Howard Memorial Hospital Board Members: Mark Kitchens and Johnny McJunkins will each serve three-year terms, and Julie Rhodes will serve a four-year term.

The next quorum court meeting is scheduled for August 18th at 11am.