Howard County Quorum Court Discusses IRS Update, Budget Changes, and Potential Economic News

Monday morning, the Howard County Quorum Court held their regular monthly meeting and received an update from County Clerk Keri Teague about the IRS notification.

Teague reported she went to Little Rock and the case is still open. She explained that in August of 2024, the county received a notification from the IRS about more than 200 W2s for the year of 2022. Teague reported only 150 W2s were sent and the reports have been corrected.

Teague said the fine of $27,580 has been paid, but she is hoping the funds will be reimbursed once this issue has been resolved. She stated the funds were taken from the county’s contingency funds.
Howard County Judge Brent Pinkerton reported that he felt some good news was coming in the near future concerning the Husqvrna building. However, that was all he was at liberty to say at this time.

Justices of the Peace voted to amend the 2025 budget. Under Ordinance 2025-5, the Howard County Sanitation, salaries full-time line item will be increased by $534. The increase is a reimbursement from the Association of Arkansas Counties Worker’s Compensation Trust for 7 days of pay for Marion Scott, Sr.

JPs also approved Ordinance 2025-6, which allows the county to conduct business with a certain county employee. The ordinance will allow the county to utilize the services of David Shelby who is a part-time employee of the county road department and owner of David Shelby Tree Service.

Judge Pinkerton also proclaimed May as National Historic Preservation Month.