AAC
Family & Friends
» » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » »
A ‘hello’ from new board president
T
his is my first opportunity to participate in County Lines magazine as the president of the Association of Arkansas Counties board of directors. I’m excited to serve in this capacity for so many wonderful public servants. I was sworn in on February 11. I have seen this organization grow and prosper in the last 18 years, and I have been blessed with countless friendships across the state. I’m honored to be here and look forward to helping AAC continue to be the valuable association it is for county officials. Arkansas is also blessed with hard working county officials in all 75 counties in this state. Most days, they find themselves on the front lines in various communities serving the people and carrying out the state’s business. It’s not as easy as we make it look and we have help. I’ve found the AAC family to be passionate about public service and always willing to assist elected officials whether it is about legal questions, continuing education or advocating for county government at the Capitol. We certainly want to continue that and build on it. So, I first want to ask you to share your thoughts and experiences with me. If you have ideas or comments concerning AAC, do not hesitate to contact me. My e-mail is judy@clarkcountyarkansas.com. The 90th Arkansas General Assembly has completed its regular session and an extraordinary special session. I would say counties fared well; however, our advocacy effort should be continuous. All county officials have a stake in that effort. The more of us who educate and communicate with our constituents and legislators,
President’s Perspective
the better off we will be. And the better our public service can become. So get out there and share the county story with your communities. If you have not had a sit down with all your representatives and senators, I strongly encourage you to. You will find this very helpful and educational. I became the Clark County Treasurer in 1997 and have seen a lot of changes in state and county governJudy Beth Hutcherson ment. I’ve also learned that change is AAC Board President; the only constant. Clark County Treasurer I certainly don’t expect that to change. All kidding aside, our role as county elected officials is a dynamic and ever-changing one. We must work on it everyday. I’m looking forward to working with all you as we aim to make county government the best it can be for the people of Arkansas.
Judy Beth Hutcherson
Judy Beth Hutcherson Clark County Treasurer / AAC Board President
AAC hosts legislative wrap up
Following each regular session of the Arkansas General Assembly, AAC invites county elected officials from across the state to Little Rock for a legislative review. During this year’s day-long meeting, held Friday, May 29, 2015, AAC board members, staffers, consultants and others went over new legislation that will affect each office — assessors, circuit clerks, county clerks, coroners, collectors, treasurers, sheriffs, judges and justices of the peace. In this photo, AAC Legislative Chairman and Randolph County Circuit Clerk Debbie Wise discusses some of the new laws as AAC Communications Director Scott Perkins navigates the General Assembly’s web site and AAC Consultant Eddie Jones looks on. COUNTY LINES, SPRING 2015
9
