13-05-2025
Jefferson County Quorum Court meeting raises questions about budget legality
PINE BLUFF, Ark. – Just three days after the majority group for the justices of the peace passed a 2025 budget in a special quorum court meeting, the Jefferson County Quorum Court met for its regularly scheduled meeting, and questions were raised.
The meeting on Monday night was filled with tension, as some officials questioned whether recent decisions, including Friday's special session to approve the budget, were legally or procedurally sound.
Jefferson County Justices of the Peace pass 2025 budget in special meeting
Justice of the Peace for District 10 Conley Bryd even stated he never received notice of the special session.
Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson also expressed his concerns for the validity of the meeting once more, saying it's something he is actively seeking legal advice on along with what he calls the improper procedural ordinance.
The roots of the controversy date back to December 2024, when Robinson presented his proposed budget to the quorum court. Since then, all budgets that the judge proposed have failed, even with new concessions.
However, the budget passed during the special quorum court meeting Friday is the same budget the majority of JPs pushed at the beginning of the year, and the same one previously vetoed by Judge Robinson and failed to be overturned.
More than 300 Jefferson County employees finally paid after county budget bill is signed into law
Despite the approval, it's far from settled. The judge now has seven days to respond.
'Well, for one, we aren't sure if he is going to veto it or not because he didn't mention it,' said District 3 Justice Reginald Johnson. 'He hadn't said anything — but that does not mean he will not exercise his power to veto.'
Robinson appeared to confirm that possibility.
'If I veto it, they will probably have the numbers to override it,' Robinson said. 'But at least I will have done my part as county judge to protect the county's interest — the county's money.'
Gridlock continues in effort to pass 2025 Jefferson County budget
The debate didn't end there, as the procedural ordinance still remains in question to the judge.
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