Office specific extensions tailored to your day-to-day business needs. Map parcels, address points, roads, pavement issues, voters, and so much more!
USER FRIENDLY INTEGRATION
Easily create, edit, and export items at anytime from anywhere. The site is mobile-friendly and backed by our unparalleled customer support team.
Real-time access to the local, state, and federal data sources you need to make informed decisions. Bringing everyone and everything together.
•
•
•
•
ROADS LEAD TO STRONGER COMMUNITY.
A community’s roads connect us to jobs, healthcare, daily essentials, friends and family — and home. Ergon is proud to provide the materials and support needed to help build and maintain safe roadways across America, connecting us all to what matters most.
RMF
Former
Meet
2025 Regular Session Resources
Look up bills and meeting times: https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us
Find your state representative: https://www.arkansashouse.org
Find your state senator: https://senate.arkansas.gov
Bureau of Legislative Research: https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bureau
Gov. Sarah Sanders webpage: https://governor.arkansas.gov
See the status of bills included in the AAC’s legislative package: https://www.arcounties.org/legislation/
See all the bills the AAC is tracking: https://www.arcounties.org/legislation/
2024-2025
Jan. 26-29
Sheriffs Marriott, Little Rock
Feb. 5-7
Treasurers
Wyndham, North Little Rock
Feb. 12-14
County Clerks
Wyndham, North Little Rock
Feb. 19-21
Circuit Clerks
Wyndham, North Little Rock
Feb. 26-28
Judges
Wyndham, North Little Rock
March 4
Coroners
Southwest Arkansas Education Cooperative, Hope
March 4-7
Assessors
Wyndham, North Little Rock
April 10
Collectors Legislative Meeting AAC, sLittle Rock
Calendar activities also are posted on our website: www.arcounties.org
Contact AAC
Chris Villines, Executive Director cvillines@arcounties.org
Anne Baker, Executive Assistant abaker@arcounties.org
Loretta Green, Receptionist lgreen@arcounties.org
Eddie A. Jones, Consultant e.jonesconsulting@gmail.com
Mark Whitmore, Chief Legal Counsel mwhitmore@arcounties.org
Colin Jorgensen, AAC Litigation Counsel cjorgensen@arcounties.org
Josh Curtis, Governmental Affairs Director jcurtis@arcounties.org
Jacob Trumble, Claims Analyst jtrumble@arcounties.org
Greg Hunt, Claims Analyst ghunt@aacrms.com
AAC Mission Statement
The Association of Arkansas Counties supports and promotes the idea that all elected officials must have the opportunity to act together in order to solve mutual problems as a unified group. To further this goal, the Association of Arkansas Counties is committed to providing a single source of cooperative support and information for all counties and county and district officials. The overall purpose of the Association of Arkansas Counties is to work for the improvement of county government in the state of Arkansas. The Association accomplishes this purpose by providing legislative representation, on-site assistance, general research, training, various publications and conferences to assist county officials in carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their office.
Kim Mitchell, Premium Analyst kmitchell@aacrms.com
Karen Bell, Program Assistant kbell@aacrms.com
Ellen Wood, Admin. Asst./Receptionist ewood@aacrms.com
James Mirus, Member Services Manager jmirus@arcounties.org
County Lines
County Lines [(ISSN 2576-1137 (print) and ISSN 2576-1145 (online)] is the official publication of the AAC. It is published quarterly. For advertising inquiries, subscriptions or other information, please contact Christy L. Smith at 501.372.7550.
Executive Director/Publisher
Chris Villines Communications Director/ Managing Editor
Christy L. Smith Communications Coordinator/Editor
Sarah Perry
AAC Executive Board:
Debbie Wise – President Brandon Ellison – Vice President Jimmy Hart – Secretary-Treasurer
Tommy Young Deanna Sivley
Debra Buckner Dana Baker
Kevin Cleghorn Terry McNatt
Rebecca Talbert Doug Curtis
Gerone Hobbs Marty Boyd
John Montgomery Heather Stevens
Brenda DeShields Selena Blair
Bobby Burns
National Association of Counties (NACo) Board Affiliations
Debbie Wise: NACo board member. She is the Randolph County Circuit Clerk and president of the AAC Board of Directors.
Brandon Ellison: NACo board member. He is the Polk County Judge and vice-president of the AAC Board of Directors.
Ted Harden: Finance & Intergovernmental Affairs Steering Committee. He is a member of the Jefferson County Quorum Court.
Barry Hyde: Justice and Public Safety Steering Committee. Vice Chair of Transportation Steering Committee. He is the Pulaski County Judge.
Rusty McMillon: Justice and Public Safety Steering Committee. He is the Greene County Judge
Kevin Smith: IT Standing Committee. He is the Sebastian County Director of Information Technology Services.
Gerone Hobbs: Membership Committee. He is the Pulaski County Coroner.
Paul Elliott:Vice Chair of Justice and Public Safety Steering Committee, vice chair of law enforcement subcommittee. He is a member of the Pulaski County Quorum Court.
Ellen Foote: Community, Economic & Workforce Development Steering Committee. She is the Crittenden County Tax Collector.
Tawanna Brown: Telecommunications & Technology Steering Committee. She is the Chief Computer Operator for Crittenden County.
AAC DIRECTOR’S DESK
Unity of vision
With a new year and legislative session approaching, I cannot help but think of Arkansas’ counties and be reminded of the precept, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Often attributed to John F. Kennedy, this phrase was delivered in a speech favorable to a dam project inauguration in 1963.
The thought that brought me to mention this saying was the cohesiveness of our counties across the state, not just in ordinary times, but especially within a legislative session. Further, when you consider the number and diversity of county offices within each county, often we find selfless empowerment across office divides.
Cultivation of group effort begins with each of you in your home counties, when a sacrifice here and there results in elevation of another workplace elsewhere in the courthouse. As you close your budget seasons, many of you have no doubt offered up a new copier, computer or maybe even significant raise for an area in greater need to be brought up to a better standard. This ritual occurs year after year as quorum courts and county leadership evaluate the greatest deficiencies in their courthouse and address them, hopefully appropriately.
Often the most contentious cycle elected officials encounter each year is the ebb and flow of developing the annual budget — because of officials’ tremendous integrity and deep understanding of needs once the budget books are closed and we turn our faces to the public ready to provide the best possible service to our citizens. It is our highest priority to provide excellent service to our citizens.
Most learn quickly not to harbor grudges through this process, and it drives each of you to make offices as efficient as possible. Then comes the next phrase often associated with our county governments, “Doing more with less.” With limited resources our offices move into the next year with a spirit of cooperation, both within and outside, to utilize staff and supplies in a well-planned and well-run manner.
This culture is important. It transcends from within counties to among different counties. Furthermore, it transcends higher up in how counties work with the state. In a state as diverse and dynamic as Arkansas, achieving a unified vision across county offices is essential for addressing the complex challenges that citizens face. Whether it’s a rural county grappling with economic development, a suburban area managing housing issues, or law enforcement dealing with overpopulated jails, cooperation across county lines and within the state legislature can make a tangible difference.
Unity of vision doesn’t just mean aligning on broad principles — it’s about actively working together, being cohesive in the legislative process, and ensuring that Arkansas moves forward with shared priorities. A process that integrates your needs closely with the AAC.
A unified vision is more than just a good idea — it’s a necessity. Each county in Arkansas faces unique challenges, yet there are overarching issues that can benefit from collective action. For example, public safety, elections, infrastructure, and economic development are all critical to the state’s future. If county leaders and state lawmakers are not on the same page, these challenges become more difficult to overcome. When there is unity among county offices and cooperation within the legislature, solutions become more viable and impactful.
I often find that when opposing groups are at an impasse on solving these issues, a brief reminder of the problem we collectively face can help us restate this vision. Refocusing on the problem at hand in some ways “resets” our vision and unifies cooperation when we face forks in the road of resolution.
Chris Villines AAC Executive Director
Effective county leadership can drive a shared vision at the state level, ensuring local concerns don’t get drowned out in the broader legislative process. When all county offices unite, they can form a powerful coalition that presents a unified front in addressing statewide issues. This solidarity is particularly essential when state legislators are making decisions that impact local funding, programs, and policies. This sharing of vision begins with you at home, one on one, in conversations with state leaders.
A unified voice from Arkansas’ counties can exert influence on the decisions made in the Capitol. For example, county officials from all corners of the state came together to advocate for state ownership of deputy prosecutor salaries during the state’s budget negotiations in this year’s fiscal session. With a unified approach, we were able to move the state towards essential funding that helped keep judicial offices a truly state obligation. Had county leaders failed to present a cohesive argument, we may have had a different, or no, outcome.
Another example of the power of unity can be seen in Arkansas’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, counties across the state were forced to adapt quickly to rapidly changing circumstances. With the state’s health infrastructure stretched thin, and jails in the bullseye of outbreaks, county officials and the AAC had to collaborate closely with state lawmakers to ensure relief was distributed equitably. By presenting a united front, together we ensured federal COVID-19
relief funds in the CARES Act were allocated fairly, considering the unique needs of rural and urban areas alike. This cooperation ensured no part of the state was left behind in the crisis.
Ultimately, achieving unity of vision in Arkansas requires commitment from every level of governance. County leaders must be willing to put aside individual interests and work toward common goals. What is so special about the AAC legislative process is that we do just this. Our process of developing the legislative package includes ALL of you, and it is refined by several members from each association we represent. Similarly, state legislators need to recognize the value of collaboration with county officials. It’s important to acknowledge that while counties may differ in their specific needs, they share overarching concerns that transcend county lines. Regardless of the specific issue, collaboration and a unified vision will ensure that Arkansas’ future remains bright.
As we enter 2025 and a new legislative session, remember when we work together — county by county, region by region, and in collaboration with the state legislature — every citizen benefits. At the AAC we do our best to help foster these relationships and facilitate important conversations. The state’s diverse geography and population offer unique challenges, but they also present rich opportunities for growth. By embracing unity of vision, we can together overcome challenges and build a stronger, more cohesive future for all.
AAC PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
Courthouses are backbone of communities
If you’ve been following the Association of Arkansas Counties’ social media sites this past year, you’ve likely seen a near daily homage to the state’s 75 counties featuring photos of the local courthouses. The posts include a description of the buildings’ design, when they were built, and a little history. If these courthouses could talk, what stories would they tell?
County government is the closest to the public — and always has been. County courthouses tended to be built in prominent locations such as the town square to give residents easy access to their elected officials.
Not everyone is able to go to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., or to the state Capitol in Little Rock to visit with their legislators. But many will go to their courthouses to conduct business or to seek help. They can visit with their county officials anytime they want.
Courthouses are places for public gatherings, special event photos, and visits with neighbors, perhaps while standing in line to pay taxes or white waiting to serve jury duty. Courthouses are the backbone of the community.
Arkansas has 85 county courthouses, and each is beautiful in its own way. For instance, my courthouse in Randolph County is of Victorian, Italianate architecture. The Union County courthouse features 40 freestanding ionic exterior columns and a detailed marble two-story atrium with art deco accents.
Some courthouses, such as the one in Monroe County, served as a place of refuge for hundreds of people during the flood of 1927. The residents of Clarendon, the county seat, took shelter on the upper floors of the courthouse while awaiting rescue by boats. While the community recovered from the flood, residents held community activities and church services in the building.
Many courthouses throughout our state still serve as
centers for community events. For instance, the Stone County courthouse square features a permanent outdoor stage for musicians to perform on warm, weekend nights and for festivals.
We have come a long way since many of the courthouses were built in the 1800s — and many rebuilt after devastating fires or other disasters. Some of the standing courthouses are in the process of needed renovations to help meet the constant needs, growth, and challenges of providing services to residents. Many of the counties undergoing courthouse renovations benefited from the County Courthouse Restoration Grants offered by the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program. This year alone, more than $4 million in grant funding was awarded to 30 recipients.
I believe it is important to keep our courthouses maintained, regardless of how old they are. We may have annexes, but to our residents, courthouses represent justice, integrity, trust, and respect. The courts, elections, and quorum court meetings are held in these buildings. I suspect nearly everyone has a memory of times at the courthouse — or their grandparents do. I believe county courthouses stand as a reminder that together we can build a better future for all.
AAC AG OPINIONS
From title company access to records to rules of interlocal agreements
AG OPINION NO. 2024-048
This opinion examines the extent of the duties of circuit clerks to provide licensed title insurance companies with “free access” to instruments of records affecting real property. Many circuit clerks have contracted with third-party software and service providers to assist in digitizing public records, including instruments affecting real property and as well making these public records accessible via online portals managed by the third-party service providers. The AG opined that circuit clerks must allow the title companies to mechanically reproduce those instruments for free in the circuit clerk’s office as per Ark. Code § 23-103-417. However, the law does not require the circuit clerk or third-party service provider to provide the recorded instruments via out-of-office electronic access. Ark. Code § 23-103-417 explicitly defines “access” as “possession of an instrument sufficient to mechanically reproduce the instrument in the office where the instrument is filed.” The law also requires the circuit clerk to allow the title insurance company representatives to occupy reasonable space and use equipment to mechanically reproduce the subject recorded instruments. The third-party service provider may charge a fee for online access.
AG OPINION NO. 2024-064
Ark. Code § 13-4-409 sets forth the retention for items that are collected and held by a sheriff related to a felony criminal investigation. Often, items that are authorized to be possessed by the sheriff are items belonging to the victim, some of which may be contraband. Only after the time period in the statute has lapsed may: the non-contraband items be returned to the owner, and contraband items be destroyed. There is no provision in law that would allow the court, prosecutor or sheriff to alter the time periods prescribed by law.
AG OPINION NO. 2024-075
Ark. Code §12-12-803 directs the authorized uses Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs). Law enforcement agencies may use ALPRs to access secure areas and by the Arkansas Highway Police to verify registration, logs and other compliance data. Law enforcement also may use ALPRS to stop motorists if there is probable cause that a traffic violation has occurred. ALPRs may verify insurance information (where the online insurance information fails to show current insurance coverage).
AG OPINION NOs. 2024-085 & 2024-091
The subject agreement is an agreement between a county and cities related to 911 public safety answering points
Mark Whitmore Chief Legal Counsel
(PSAPs) and operations and funding as required by Ark. Code § 12-10-304(a)(2). As such, the agreement requires approval of the Arkansas 911 Board. However, the subject agreement was explicitly made under and in reference to the Interlocal Cooperation Act. It was therefore submitted to the Attorney General. The AG determined that in respect to interlocal agreements, which create a separate legal entity, the following six terms must be specified in the agreement: (1) The precise organization, composition, and nature of any separate legal entity; (2) the agreement’s duration; (3) the agreement’s purpose; (4) the manner of financing (or funding) the joint entity or cooperative and specifics of establishing and maintaining the budget for it; (5) how to partially or completely terminate the agreement and how to dispose of property upon partial or complete termination; and (6) any other necessary and proper matters. See: Ark. Code § 25-20104(c)
{It is noted by this author: There are two general acts concerning counties and interlocal agreements. Ark. Code § 1414-910 was enacted following Amendment 55 of the Arkansas Constitution and part of the enabling legislation under Act 742 of 1977. Counties commonly make interlocal agreements with other counties, cities or other political subdivisions under Ark. Code § 14-14-910. Interlocal agreements made under Ark. Code § 14-14-910(b)(2) establish a duration greater than 12 months or one year (or an agreement without fixed duration exhibiting a “permanent or perpetual relationship”). These interlocal agreements under Ark. Code § 14-14-910(b)(2) require approval of the county judge and quorum court. Further, Ark. Code § 14-14-910(d) requires submission and review by legal counsel (typically the county attorney or private counsel). Ark. Code § 14-14-910(e), only requires submission and review by the Attorney General, if the subject agreement involves the state or a state agency. In contrast, every agreement that is entered into pursuant to the Interlocal Cooperation Act, shall in accordance with Ark. Code § 25-204(f) be submitted to the Attorney General. The AG shall then determine whether the agreement is in proper form and compatible with the laws of this state. The Interlocal Cooperation Act was enacted by virtue of Act 430 of 1967 and codified under Ark. Code § 2520-101 to 524).}
The history of and current state of oaths of office
According to etymologists, the word “oath,” originates from the Old English að , meaning “judicial swearing” or “solemn appeals to deities in the witness of truth or a promise.”
Merriam-Webster defines oath as meaning: “a solemn usually formal calling upon God or a god to witness the truth of what one says or to witness that one sincerely intends to do what one says” or “a solemn attestation of the truth or inviolability of one’s words.” An oath is simultaneously an inward and outward manifestation of intent to abide by and uphold the law at the risk of divine punishment.
The first oath of office taken in the United States of America was President George Washington’s presidential oath, administered on April 30, 1789, by fellow revolutionary and Founding Father Robert Livingston at Federal Hall in New York City. The first presidential oath of office was taken using a hastily borrowed Bible from nearby St. John’s Lodge. The Bible was opened (landing on Genesis 49:13), the President placed his right hand on it, swore the oath, kissed the Bible, and then Livingston turned to the audience and shouted, “Long live George Washington, President of the United States!”
The history of oaths ranges from ancient times — oaths were present in Egypt, Rome, Greece and Judea — to the present. While the manner and form of oaths has changed in the 235 years since President Washington’s first oath of office, the American ideals solemnized and conveyed through oaths has not. Throughout history, oaths have represented the relationship between citizens, leaders, government, and a belief that public service is undertaken in pursuit of ideals greater than earthly ambitions and rewards.
Oaths in History
While the word “oath” comes to us through Anglo-Saxon origins, the concept of oaths is deeply rooted in many traditions, intertwining religious and legal concepts. In 509 B.C. the Roman Temple of Jupiter was dedicated on the Capitoline Hill (the word capitol is assumed to be derived from Capitoline Hill, the likely inspiration for Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.). An officeholder would swear to Jupiter upon the investiture of their office. The elected official would swear upon an oath stone which was meant to represent Jupiter as divine lawmaker and peacekeeper. If a Roman official broke their sacred oath
they could be expected to be punished by Orcus, the god of the underworld and punisher of violated oaths.
Taylor Handford AAC Legal Counsel
In Judaism and Christianity, the idea of swearing a sacred vow appears multiple times. The first person to swear an oath in the Bible is Eliezer, the chief servant of Abraham. In Genesis 24:3-4, Abraham tells Eliezer, “I want you to swear by the Lord, God of heaven and the God of earth that you will … get a wife for my son Isaac.” In response to Abraham’s request, Eliezer, which means “Help of my God,” swears an oath to Abraham. Additionally, Numbers 30:2 states, “When a man voweth a vow unto the Lord, or sweareth an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.” This verse provides more evidence that an oath is a plea and a promise beyond earthly considerations, that a person’s word is a bond, and a person’s actions must be in accordance with their words.
The first instance of oaths used in a legal setting in the western world dates to 9th century England. Oath-takers in England during this time took their vows at an altar while swearing on a Bible. Throughout a period of 300 years, this practice was adopted by the English courts. After this practice emerged, it stayed consistent. The oath-taker places their hand on the Bible while taking the oath, kisses the Bible, and acknowledges that, as Hannah Rosefield writes in A Brief History of Oaths and Books , “should [they] lie under oath, neither the words in the Bible nor [their] good deeds nor [their] prayers will bring [them] any earthly or spiritual profit.” To this day, British witnesses state, “by Almighty God,” while American oathtakers state, “So help me God.”
Oaths Today Federal Oaths
The United States Constitution contains two mandates regarding oaths: Article 2, § 1 and Article 6. Article 2, § 1 sets the presidential oath of office, providing the specific wording for it: “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Article 6, the general oath of office for members of Congress, does not contain specific wording. Instead, Congress has amended and changed the wording of Article 6 oath multiple times, depending on the needs and culture of the time. In fact, the first ever law passed by Congress regulated oaths of office. The First Congress passed “An Act to regulate the Time and Manner of administering certain Oaths” with the House approving it on April 27, 1789, followed by the Senate on May 5, 1789. The act specified the oath itself and the manner for it to be administered to members of Congress.
In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln expanded this oath during the Civil War, creating the so-called Ironclad Test Oath. In 1884, Congress removed the Ironclad Test Oath language, creating the oath that is still in use today: “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God.”
Oaths Today Arkansas Oaths
In Arkansas, our state constitution and the Arkansas Code govern oaths. The “who” and the “when” regarding oaths of office are answered in Article 19, § 20 of the Arkansas Constitution, A.C.A. § 14-14-1304, A.C.A. § 21-1-102, A.C.A. § 21-2-105. Answering both “who” and “when,” Article 19, § 20 lays the foundation for oaths of office, containing the required “oath of affirmation” and that all senators, representatives, judicial officers, executive officers, state officers, county officers, “and all other officers,” must take the oath. The oath in Art. 19, § 20 reads: “I, ______, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Arkansas, and that I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of ______, upon which I am now about to enter.” County assessors must take an additional oath under A.C.A. § 14-15-201.
Who must take oaths of office? As mentioned above,
See “OATHS” on Page 16 >>>
RELATIONSHIPS ARE OUR FOUNDATION
We partner with attorneys, CPAs and other financial advisors to help their clients achieve philanthropic goals. The Foundation provides expertise and tools to maximize tax benefits while achieving the greatest impact for local programs. The process is easy, flexible and efficient. Arkansas Community Foundation: engaging people, connecting resources and inspiring solutions to build Arkansas communities.
AAC RESEARCH CORNER
OATHS
Art. 19, § 20 lists which officers must take an oath of office. This is reinforced by A.C.A. § 14-14-1304 that states, “each county, justice of the peace, and township officer, before entering upon the discharge of the duties of his or her office, shall take and subscribe to the oath prescribed in the Arkansas Constitution for officers.” According to Arkansas Attorney General Opinion No. 2011-123, county deputy sheriffs “are ‘officers’ for purposes of the constitution, and … hold a ‘civil office under this State.’” Due to deputy sheriffs being civil officer holders under the State of Arkansas, they too must take the oath of office pursuant to the Arkansas Constitution and statutes. The opinion reaffirms that “a judge, county judge or a county clerk, can swear in a police officer or deputy sheriff.”
TheWho conducts oaths of office to county elected officials and their deputies? A.C.A. § 21-2-105 provides a list: the Secretary of State or their designee; an Arkansas Supreme Court justice; a judge of the court of appeals, circuit court, district court, or county court; the county clerk; the circuit court clerk, or justices of the peace. The only county positions that can administer oaths are the county judge, circuit court clerk, county clerk, and justices of the peace. When must oaths of office be taken? Again, Art. 19, § 20 informs us that the oath must be taken “before entering” office. A.C.A. § 14-14-1304 reaffirms this. A.C.A. § 21-1-102 Term of Office of certain officers provides that “all county officers’” terms “shall begin on January 1 following their election.” Arkansas AG Opinion No. 2017-015 states, “it is only when the oath is complete that the ‘incoming officer assumes all the rights, privileges, and duties of his or her respective office.’”
Continued From Page 15 <<<
or sheriff, were to fail to properly take the oath of office, then A.C.A. § 14-14-1309 allows the quorum court to declare a vacancy and subsequently fill the vacancy under A.C.A. § 14-14-1310. Additionally, it is possible for an incumbent that either lost re-election or decided to not stand for re-election to be “held over” if the new elected official were to fail to properly and timely take the oath of office. Article 19, § 5 of the Arkansas Constitution provides, “All officers shall continue in office after the expiration of their official terms, until their successors are elected and qualified.”
Secretary of State or their designee; an Arkansas Supreme Court justice; a judge of the court of appeals, circuit court, district court, or county court; the county clerk; the circuit court clerk, or justices of the peace may conduct oaths of office to county elected officials and their deputies.
— A.C.A. § 21-2-105
This language appears nearly verbatim in A.C.A. § 211-102(b): “All officers shall hold their respective offices for the term prescribed by the law and until their successors are elected and qualified.” Arkansas AG Opinion No. 2021012 details what occurs when a newly elected official, in this instance a justice of the peace, is neither interested in serving nor in taking the constitutionally required oath of office. In this case, the incumbent justice of the peace did not file for re-election and the newly elected justice of the peace no longer wanted to take office. The opinion states, “To be qualified, the successor must take the oath of office on or before January 1, when the new term commences.” When the successor does not qualify or does not take the oath of office, there is not a vacancy, but instead the incumbent, the individual preceding the newly elected official, remains in office. The opinion continues: “As a consequence of the JP-elect’s failure to qualify, the incumbent JP is entitled to continue in office after the expiration of his official term and until a successor is elected and qualified.”
What happens if a newly elected official “refuses or neglects to take and subscribe to the official oath?” A.C.A. § 14-14-1308(2) provides that this qualifies as a vacancy in office. If a county elected official, such as a county judge
This flows from Art. 19, § 5 that mandates incumbents holdover in their position until the successor is elected and qualified. Qualification includes taking the “oath of office pursuant to Article 19, § 20 … which requires of -
ficers to be sworn in ‘before entering on the duties of their respective offices.’” Taking the oath of office in the proper form and manner as provided by Art. 19, § 20, A.C.A. § 14-14-1304, and A.C.A. § 21-2-105 ensures that a person is fully qualified before acting in their official capacity.
Conclusion
The structure provided by the Arkansas Constitution — Art. 19, § 20 — and the Arkansas Code — A.C.A. §§ 21-2-105 and 14-14-1304 — answers “who” and “when” related to oaths of office for county officials. Article 19, § 20 and A.C.A. § 14-14-1304 provide that all county officers shall take the oath of office. A.C.A. § 21-2-105 provides who can administer oaths of office. Article 19, § 20 and A.C.A. § 14-14-1304 answer when the oath of office must be taken: before entering the office and discharging the duties of the office. When do county officers enter office? A.C.A. § 21-1-102 states that terms of office for county officers begin on January 1 following their election. If an elected county official fails to take the constitutionally required oath of office, then their office
can either, depending upon the facts and circumstances, be declared vacant and then filled by the quorum court or be filled through the previous officeholder “holding over.”
The ancient Greek statesman Lycurgus of Athens summarized, “it is the oath which holds democracy together.” An oath encapsulates the contemporary society in which it is enacted. The distinct threads of religion, politics, and the law, are bound together through oaths to reflect the aspirations and concerns of the polity. An oath is a personal obligation and a public obligation, a promise to be faithful to the law and perform to the best of one’s abilities, with the understanding that such a commitment is at the heart of our societal principles, beliefs, and values. These obligations to the law and to the constitution are what unites us. And if a person wants to take their oath and kiss the Bible as our first President did, the Arkansas Code provides for that as well: A.C.A. § 16-2-101(a) states, “the usual mode of administering oaths practiced by the person who swears, laying his or her hand on and kissing the Gospels, shall be observed in all cases in which an oath is or may be required.”
THE OFFICER EXPERIENCE PLATFORM
AAC SEEMS TO ME...
Public speaking
A fact of life for elected officials
You’re kidding, right? No, I’m not. Elected officials at all levels of government get called on to speak publicly. Be ready. If you didn’t want in this arena, you chased the wrong bull when asking people to vote for you. You say, “But, I’m not a public speaker. I’m no good at it.” Get good at it. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “All the great speakers were bad speakers at first.” Thankfully, you are given enough notice to prepare for making a presentation — most of the time. Take my word for it. I’ve been around for a while. I still know a thing or two, and I’m going to share it with you. I’m not old and worn out, but I’m old enough to take a little precaution. I make sure I’m nowhere near the curb on trash day.
Having a 30-year background in commercial radio, I was used to being behind a microphone. However, I was not accustomed to viewing my audience. Although I was an early morning anchor and there were sometimes a few other people in the studios, there I was sitting in the studio with my microphone talking up a storm to myself. Or so it appeared even though thousands could be listening to me at any given time.
Eddie A. Jones County Consultant
audience, and then I spend hours researching the topic or topics I am asked to present. I must decide how to present the material in a way that is both challenging and appealing. Being able to command a room from one singular point on stage as the speaker means you have to know what your listeners are there to hear and to elicit emotions in them.
I have made hundreds of speeches and presentations in my life and written numerous articles about public speaking. I have taken classes in public speaking and given a few seminars about public speaking. In this article, I simply want to present a few simple ways to become a more impressive public speaker — ways to captivate an audience.
All the great speakers were bad speakers at first.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
Yes, I was used to being behind a microphone. What I was not used to, for a while, after stepping into the political arena 45 years ago was speaking to a room full of blinking eyes … real live human beings that I could see. It’s one thing to stare at my news copy and read it behind my microphone; it’s quite another to feel an audience — being acutely aware of the presence of people watching you; feeling the collective breath and energy of the audience; often experiencing a mix of emotions like anticipation, excitement, nervousness, and a sense of connection depending on their reactions. Occasionally the silence in the room can be so intense I can almost feel the weight of everyone’s expectations on me.
The key is to be authentic and provide authentic content. You don’t have to be a huge imposing figure running around with too much energy to stand out to an audience. You have to be you in an authentic way. William Butler Yeats said, “Think like a wise man but communicate in the language of the people.”
When I’m asked to speak to a group, I like to know my
Preparation. Remember the insurance commercial about the Three P’s — Price, Price, and Price? When it comes to public speaking the Three P’s are Preparation, Preparation, and Preparation. We live in a fast and busy world and very few take the time to really prepare for a speech or public presentation. The trick is to prepare so much that by the time you stand up before your audience it almost seems off the cuff. The best presentations are the ones that feel like the speaker is talking casually to you, as if he or she had made this all up along the way. You may have notes or a script, but you know your material so well that the presentation just flows. What you’ve got to do is prepare in a way that makes it look natural and effortless.
When you’ve been asked to make a presentation the first thing to do is “to get into your subject,” then to “get your subject into yourself,” and lastly, to “get your subject into the heart of your audience.” To accomplish this you must prepare. Mark Twain, known for his exaggerations, said, “It usually takes me more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech.”
Engage the audience quickly. You have to say something in the first part of your presentation to engage the audience. I prefer to use a little levity and humor to grab the audience
and make them a part of the conversation. Or tell a good story. Storytelling is one of the most effective ways you can communicate with your audience. Stories command the person to listen from the beginning to the end and create a sense of trust because of the authentic connection. Dale Carnegie believed, “Speakers who talk about what life has taught them never fail to keep the attention of their listeners.” People are going to remember how you made them feel. Connect your presentation to real life.
Enjoy it, even if you are as nervous as a sinner in church or two shakes away from a meltdown. It’s alright to have butterflies in your stomach, even natural; just get them to fly in formation. If you are nervous just take a few deep breaths before you ever stand before the group. This will help calm your nerves and help you breathe normally.
Nothing is more painful for an audience than watching someone struggle on stage. Even if you aren’t enjoying giving your presentation, at least pretend you are. Pretend you’re having the time of your life and the next thing you know you will be. Enjoying it makes a difference because you are really present, and you have a real, sometimes magical communication with your audience.
Show some passion. In order to convince people, in order to move people, you have to believe in what you’re saying. Remember this: the best way to conquer stage fright is to know what you’re talking about, know your subject.
It’s not about you. The message, “It’s not about you,” needs to be provided to a few politicians we all know. Every person listening to the sound of your voice wants to feel special, and your job onstage is to help make the audience feel that it’s an honor to speak to them.
A speech or presentation is never about the speaker; the presentation is about the audience. No matter if someone is seated in the front row or is in the back of the room, everyone in that room wants to feel like he or she is being spoken to individually. You capture your audience when you are able to speak in such a way that you are talking to them as if in a conversation. John Ford said, “You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart.”
Be adaptive. The worst presentations are those that plow on regardless of how the audience is reacting. You can’t bow to every whim of the audience, but if something appears to really resonate with listeners, follow it through. Or if the presentation is simply not working with an audience, take note and make changes to adapt.
Adapting a speech to an audience is not the same thing as simply telling an audience what they want to hear; it’s not kowtowing to a group. Rather, adaptation guides the stylistic
and content choices a speaker makes for a presentation in order to be effective.
I ignored this rule once within the last year, and it was a disaster — at least in my book. I had given basically the same presentation to another group that loved it. When presented to the second group the reaction was much different. Instead of being adaptive to the audience, I kept on plowing. Let me tell you, there were some big clots in that field when I stopped plowing. I should have adapted to the situation. I should have heeded the old Chinese proverb, “The wise adapt themselves to circumstances, as water molds itself to the pitcher.”
Silence. English writer and poet, Martin Tupper said, “Well-timed silence hath more eloquence than speech.” Pauses are crucial in speech because they:
• Enhance clarity: Give listeners time to process what you’ve said.
• Emphasize key points: Draw attention to important ideas or messages.
• Engage the audience: Create anticipation and keep the audience focused.
Use pauses strategically: (1) Before important points: To highlight a key message or idea. (2) After asking a question: To give the audience time to think and respond mentally; (3) Between sections: To signal a transition or change in topic; and (4) During emotional moments: To allow the audience to absorb and react to what’s been said.
Sometimes those silent pauses are the loudest part of a presentation. Massimo Vignelli said, “It’s the space you put between the notes that make the music.”
There is no perfect speech. There is just you. No perfect speech because there is no perfect you. There is just us and what we have to say. Ultimately, that is what a speech or presentation is about — an expression of ourselves. Don’t worry about being judged, because everyone understands that we are all just people.
The success of your presentation will be judged not by the knowledge you send but by what the listener receives. Nobody will remember how busy you were; how many hours you worked; how smart you were; the details of your presentation; or whether you were wearing Italian leather loafers. People will remember the time you spent with them; if you were honest; if they could trust what you presented; and ultimately, how you made them feel.
As an elected official, never turn down an opportunity to speak. Just prepare, engage the audience, enjoy it and be authentic. You must start. Public speaking is not something you’re born with; it is a learned skill.
AAC LEGAL CORNER
The rising threat of title theft and why you should care
“A Scammer Tried to Seize Graceland. Is This $173.5 Million L.A. Mansion Next?”
“77-year-old man arrested, couple forced to move after their DeKalb home is stolen in fraud case”
“92-year-old Dallas woman loses property after someone forged the deed”
“D.C. man found guilty of using fraudulent deeds to steal property”
“Arizona homeowners falling victim to deed fraud”
These are all actual headlines from across the country within the last year and a half. Real estate fraud has seen a substantial uptick in recent years. In 2023, the FBI reported that there were 9,251 complaints for real estate fraud (more than lottery, sweepstakes, inheritance, data breach, ransomware, copyright and counterfeit, and malware complaints), resulting in losses of $145,243,348. In 2022, there were 11,727 real estate fraud complaints resulting in nearly $400 million dollars in losses. One area where fraud is booming is known as deed fraud or title theft.
In a nutshell, title theft is when a bad actor forges land records conveying title to property they do not own by pretending to be the property owner. One example involves the criminal acting as the landowner, selling the property to an unknowing buyer and pocketing the cash. With the growth of online notarization and electronic recording, it is possible for the criminal to be located overseas and easily disappear. Another instance of deed fraud is when the bad actor steals the identity of the landowner and forges documents to secure a mortgage on the unknowing landowner’s property. The bad actor takes off with the money, leaving the loan payments to the unknowing landowner, often resulting in foreclosure proceedings against the real landowner.
Properties at higher risk of deed fraud include homes without an existing mortgage because mortgagees get paid off before the property owner at the time of a sale. Vacant or mostly vacant properties and unimproved land are also targeted because they are less closely monitored by the landowners. Often the criminal will list the property for a deal that is too good to be true to close the deal quickly. Unfortunately, elderly and other vulnerable populations are frequently the victims
LINDSEY FRENCH General Counsel
of these crimes. High residential property prices and interest rates coupled with a rise in inflation have contributed to the increase in this type of crime. You might be thinking to yourself, “So what? If a deed or mortgage is forged, then it is void and will not be a real problem.” You would be wrong. Fraudulent deeds can take months and tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees to straighten out in the court system, and attorney’s fees can be virtually impossible to recover if the criminal is out of state or overseas.
There are a few ways that a property owner can protect themselves to become a less likely target of title theft, though none of them are foolproof. Many counties offer an alert system to notify you if land records are recorded in the recorder’s office (usually the circuit clerk) on your property. You can contact your county circuit clerk and ask if they offer this type of service. You can also set up a Google alert tied to your property address to alert you if your property is listed for sale online. Also, closely monitor your credit reports and utility bills for unexpected changes.
The American Land Title Association (ALTA) has recommended changes in legislation to allow notaries to utilize the latest technology in verifying identities when notarizing documents. Additionally, ALTA says that while access to public land records must be prioritized, steps should be taken to prevent criminals from using bulk data downloads to commit fraud. Another recommendation is for local land recording offices to have the ability to report obviously or suspected fraudulent documents to local law enforcement agencies rather than having to blindly stamp whatever crosses the desk to be recorded. ALTA also suggests that additional law enforcement resources be dedicated to investigate and prosecute title theft crimes.
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin also recognizes the threat of title theft to homeowners in the state and offered some advice on how to best protect your home from this type of deed fraud. He advises, “Deed fraud can happen to anyone, but it’s most common with vacant homes or vacation houses. The best way to keep your house safe is to keep your private information safe. To do that, you can contact your circuit clerk’s office to see if there are any protections it can place on your deed. Also, consumers can inquire with their homeowner insurance about coverage specific to this issue. And if you believe you are a victim of deed fraud, please reach out to my office at (501) 682-2007.”
AAC GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS
What does the AAC do?
The Association of Arkansas Counties (AAC) works for all 75 counties. We represent over 1,300 county and district officials. These elected officials represent every square mile of this great state. They were elected by the people. Some won their election with 51 percent of the vote, and some won unanimously. The people of Arkansas elect our bosses. Many of our readers know this, but I will explain it to the few that are confused about how the AAC operates. We have an 18-member Board of Directors that governs the AAC. These board members’ duties include approving the annual budget, setting the number of employees and hiring the executive director. This board consists of two members from each of the nine associations under the AAC umbrella. Each county or district official is a member of their respective association. These nine associations are: Circuit Clerks Association, County Treasurers’ Association, Association of County Clerks, County Judges’ Association, Coroners’ Association, Association of Quorum Courts, Sheriffs’ Association, County Tax Collectors Association, and County Assessor’s Association. These associations determine the two members they want to represent their association on the AAC Board of Directors.
The 95th General Assembly is just around the corner and our associations are preparing their legislative packages. The AAC is most visible during the session. We track and work on hundreds of bills. In fact, we tracked 448 bills last session for all the associations. Each of these bills could affect county government in some way. Some were beneficial to county government, some were not. Some were voted to oppose, some were voted to support by each association. Everything we do is member driven; we receive our marching orders from the leadership of each association. The AAC reviews each bill filed and provides a synopsis to all members. The elected officials decide which direction we take. For example, last session there were plenty of election related bills. The county clerks decided if they want to be for a bill or against a bill. Lindsey French, our liaison to the County Clerks Association, does not sit back and tell the clerks what to be for or against. The members tell us how to respond to each bill that affects their respective office. Do we provide talking points for bills? Yes, but these talking points are developed by the county and district officials we represent. Do we send these talking points out to members requesting them to contact their representatives and senators asking them to vote one way? Yes, absolutely. When the Clerks Association has identified a bill to be for or against, we provide the talking points for the association to be successful. I know this sounds very elementary, but there are people that are disoriented when it comes to the reality of how the AAC operates.
There are at least two sides to every issue, and there can be large factions on the opposite sides. In this country, we have
Josh Curtis Governmental Affairs Director
a democracy in which all eligible citizens have an equal say. The AAC does not pick the people we work for. The majority of the combined factions tells us who we will represent. How do we represent county and district officials? First, we offer new elect training to everyone when they get elected. We teach them about the law, preach fiscal responsibility and provide resources that give them the opportunity to be successful for their county. We provide multiple continuing education meetings each year. These meetings provide opportunities to learn new things, to interact with state agencies, and to collaborate with their colleagues. We provide consistent legal guidance for all things county related. Sometimes our members — and other entities — do not like our expert legal counsel. We defend counties in lawsuits. The people on the other side of these lawsuits normally do not like the AAC, but we have a duty to stand by our client to provide the best ethical representation.
Counties choose to be members of the AAC. It is their option to participate in our risk management and workers compensation programs. We have 100 percent participation; all 75 counties are members of the AAC. We have the best rates for workers comp with some of the best attorneys advising counties how to implement best practices. The counties pay for these services. We give back to our members. We have given millions of dollars back in dividends from our workers comp program. When we do well in our risk management program, we help find ways to mitigate risks for counties. For example, we provide the Justice Bridge phone system to all counties at no additional cost. The Justice Bridge system limits exposure for transporting prisoners’ miles and miles to a court room for a 5-minute hearing. The Justice Bridge allows inmates to be connected all over the state from jails and prisons using secure video conferencing to appear virtually in court or to meet with their attorney. We provide other services as well, but this is one that has saved an enormous amount of tax dollars and limited the counties’ exposure to risk.
I am writing this article with the 95th General Assembly in mind. We are the messenger for counties when it comes to legislation. Don’t kill the messenger. We work for the elected officials who win elections — the ones Arkansans put in office. The AAC is respected at the Capitol and is a huge resource for legislators. We get calls all the time asking for research and how we can help make a bill better for a senator or representative. At the end of the day, we want what’s best for our members, and we take pride in helping them make their county the best for their constituents. We anticipate another successful session for our members.
AAC RISK MANAGEMENT SERVICES
The history and significance of the Prison Rape Elimination Act
The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), codified at 34 U.S.C. § 30301, et seq., was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2003 with the stated goal of eradicating prisoner rape in correctional facilities in this country. National PREA standards establish requirements for prevention, investigation, and reporting of sexual assaults in correctional facilities, as well as direct the availability of resources for victims. Each state is required to certify compliance with PREA standards every three years or risk the loss of federal funding. Arkansas has begun the process required to certify compliance through an independent audit of each unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Independent audits for PREA compliance in county jails that house “309” inmates are also required for purposes of certification by the state. Failure to perform or pass a PREA audit will result in the withdrawal of 309 inmates from the county. The independent audits required may represent a significant cost to Arkansas counties in 2025 and beyond. Therefore, as counties budget and plan for the coming years, it is helpful to understand the history and significance of the act and the reason for the audits.
The roots of PREA can be traced back to reports and studies during the 1990s that highlighted alarming statistics of the incidence of sexual violence in correctional facilities. The Bureau of Justice Statistics reported that more than 200,000 individuals experience sexual violence in prisons and jails annually. In 2001, the National Prison Rape Elimination Commission was established in response. The commission investigated the prevalence of sexual assault in detention facilities and made recommendations for its elimination. Comprised of experts in criminal justice, mental health, and civil rights, the commission conducted research and heard testimony from survivors, correctional staff, and advocates.
In 2003, these efforts culminated in the passage of the Prison Rape Elimination Act. The law had several key objectives: to provide for the federal government to collect data on prison rape, to create a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual assault in detention facilities, and to establish standards for prevention, detection, and response to incidents of sexual violence. The act mandates the establishment of a comprehensive framework to prevent, detect, and respond to incidents of sexual assault in prisons and jails. The guidelines call for the adoption of appropriate policies, resources, and screening tools, as well as for implementation of additional hiring and training practices for those employed in the facility or persons who may interact with inmates in the facility. An audit would be a comprehensive review of these policies and practices within each facility, as well as an investigation into the statistics related to sexual violence and investigation in the facility.
The guidelines established by PREA represent comprehen-
sive action against sexual violence in correctional facilities. At the core of PREA is the recognition that all individuals deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and that sexual violence in prisons poses a risk to victims and to the overall security of detention facilities. In addition, PREA promotes accountability by requiring the collection of data and the establishment of national standards. PREA encourages transparency regarding the prevalence of sexual violence and the measures taken to combat it. By providing a safer environment and access to support services, PREA helps victims and contributes to reducing recidivism and promoting rehabilitation. Finally, PREA guidelines ensure that victims have access to medical and mental health services and confidential reporting mechanisms. Empowering survivors to come forward and seek help is essential for recovery and for fostering a culture of zero tolerance towards sexual violence.
The scope of PREA extends to various levels of the correctional system in the United States, impacting both public and private facilities. All federal prisons and detention centers are obligated to comply with PREA. Each of the 50 states must adopt PREA guidelines for their prison systems. To be considered PREA compliant, states are expected to require compliance by any facility (including county jails) that holds state inmates. Private prisons that contract with federal or state governments to house inmates are also required to comply with PREA. Although the primary focus of PREA is on adult correctional facilities, guidelines also apply to juvenile detention centers, community correctional programs, and local law enforcement agencies responsible for housing individuals pre-trial or during short-term detentions.
Failing to adopt PREA guidelines can have repercussions that can critically impact facilities and staff. The most significant consequence is a loss of funding. The law mandates that states that fail to implement PREA standards face a reduction in federal prison funding. This financial penalty alone serves as a strong incentive for compliance. In addition, facilities that do not have adequate policies or procedures in place to prevent and respond to sexual assault may face lawsuits that can lead to substantial settlements and damages. Finally, facilities that do not adopt PREA guidelines risk creating environments where sexual violence can thrive. When inmates feel unsafe, it can lead to increased violence and a breakdown of trust between inmates and staff.
As you consider the reasons for and implications of PREA compliance (and the required auditing), we hope to be a resource for you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
JaNan Thomas RMS General Counsel
Saving for retirement made easier
The 457(b) deferred comp plan
When you join your employer’s 457(b) deferred compensation (comp) plan, you get a wealth of online resources to help you set your goals, research investment options and decide how much to save for retirement.
But you also get attentive service from Nationwide® Retirement Specialists. We’ll take time to understand your situation so we can provide personalized guidance as you:
Identify your retirement goals
Enroll in your employer’s retirement plan
Determine your contribution level
Develop a personalized long-term investment strategy
Keep track of your plan over time
What matters is where you want to go and how you’re going to get there. Let us help.
Have questions? Your Nationwide Retirement Specialists are here to help.
Retirement Resource Group 888-401-5272 nrsforu@nationwide.com
AAC NEWS FROM NACO
www.naco.org
About NACo – The Voice of America’s Counties
National Association of Counties (NACo) is the only national organization that represents county governments in the U.S. NACo provides essential services to the nation’s 3,068 counties. NACo advances issues with a unified voice before the federal government, improves the public’s understanding of county government, assists counties in finding and sharing innovative solutions through education and research and provides value-added services to save counties and taxpayers money.
Lock it down: Essential password management
Story by Rita Reynolds Chief Information Officer/Managing Director, County Tech Exchange
While we are getting closer to a passwordless society, where you can use biometrics (like our fingerprint or eye), we aren’t quite there yet in full adoption of that practice.
Until then, your online identity needs to be protected with strong passwords. One may ask the question of why so much attention needs to be given to creating and maintaining passwords. Well, it’s no different than other areas of your life, such as keeping your house secure. There are many ways to do that including locking the doors and windows, installing a camera system, building a fence, living in a gated community, being cautious with spare keys, and locking your valuables in a secure location (i.e. home safe). Some individuals hire a security firm or guard to monitor their home. While most of you do not go that far, you do practice many of the other security measures. Another area where you practice strong security safeguards is with your vehicle. You lock the car doors when you are out and about, you don’t leave the keys in the car, nor do you leave valuables in plain sight in the car. You most likely park your vehicle in the home garage or in a lighted area of a parking lot. These are essentials in keeping those valuables safe and secure.
Securing those passwords can bring the same level of security to your online identity, whether at work or in your personal life. And it’s not that difficult. Creating strong and secure passwords is critical for protecting sensitive data and accounts. Here are some best practices that will help thwart efforts to invade your secure identity.
1. Use long passwords — Aim for at least 12-16 characters. It used to be that eight characters were good enough. That is no longer the case. The longer the password, the more difficult it is to crack. Some systems allow even longer passwords, which greatly increases security.
2. Combine uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols — Use a mix of character types to create complexity that includes uppercase letters (A-Z), lowercase letters (a-z), numbers (0-9) as well as special characters (e.g., !, @, #, $, etc.)
3. Avoid common words or phrases — Avoid using com-
mon passwords like “password,” “123456,” or easily guessable words such as your name, birthday, or “admin”. Also avoid predictable keyboard patterns like “qwerty” or “12345.”
4. Do not reuse passwords — I know it’s tempting, but each of your accounts should have a unique password. If one account is compromised, those reused passwords allow attackers to access multiple accounts.
5. Use passphrases — Create passphrases made up of random words or a memorable phrase may be easier for you to remember. For example: “MyfavoritecarIs2024!” is harder to guess but easy to remember.
6. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) — Where possible, add an extra layer of security by enabling MFA, which requires a second form of authentication, such as a code sent to your phone. Remember, the hackers don’t have access to your phone so won’t be able to break into your online account without that.
7. Use a password manager — Password managers, much more common these days, generate and store complex passwords for each account, so you only need to remember one master password. And for personal use, they are generally available at no cost.
8. Avoid using personal information — Don’t use easily discoverable information such as your name, address, phone number, or family members’ names or birth dates.
9. Change passwords regularly (with caution) — While regularly changing passwords is still a common recommendation, it is less critical if you’re using strong, unique passwords with MFA. However, change your password immediately if you suspect a breach.
10. Do not share passwords — And finally, never share your passwords, especially over email or messaging apps. I know it can be tempting to store that password on a sticky note on your computer screen, BUT DON’T DO IT! Anyone could walk up to your unattended device and steal that password.
Remember, for now, passwords are “keys to your online kingdom.” While you cannot eliminate all risks, by following these practices, you do significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts.
The NACo High Performance Leadership HPLA uses an innovative, interactive online learning platform that combines real-time webinars, recorded county – saving money and maximizing time.
THE ACADEMY FOCUSES ON FIVE ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
LEAD:
COLLABORATE: ORGANIZE: DELIVER:
Engage teams and stakeholders to foster positive climates and exceed common expectations Plan, lead and execute organizational change more consistently
Establish alignment and strong partnerships through building stronger relationships
Measure projects and processes to deliver results aligned with county and community priorities
Create clarity, confidence and community COMMUNICATE:
The NACo High Performance Leadership Academy empowers frontline county government professionals with fundamental, practical leadership skills to deliver results for counties and residents.
NACo Member County cost per enrollee begins at $1,995 Additional discounts may apply. Contact us for more details.
With a curriculum developed by General Colin Powell and public and private sector leaders, NACo High Performance Leadership Academy gives students the opportunity to learn from world-class faculty. All content is guided by an expert facilitator.
In 2023, ARORP announced the Coalition Partnership Empowerment (COPE) project. For this project, ARORP partnered with CADCA to create a training that helps coalitions prepare to apply for the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant. Out of 13 new Arkansas community coalitions to apply for and receive funding from ARORP, seven were approved for the DFC grant. This will bring over $4 million dollars back to their communities across the next five years, with eligibility to extend the grants for another five years.
Updates on ARORP opioid settlement funds
Story by Kirk Lane, Tenesha Barnes, Colin Jorgensen
Photos by Kayla Dennis
In just short of two years, the Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership (ARORP) has distributed more than $26.3 million in opioid settlement dollars to all 75 counties. Settlement dollars are making an impact in schools, hospitals, treatment centers, religious organizations, pharmacies, drug task forces, sober living facilities, and recovery community organizations. Over 140 local community partners have received funding to make a difference in their counties.
In 2024, the state received uplifting news: overdose fatalities are decreasing in Arkansas. From 2022 to 2023, the number of fatal overdoses in Arkansas decreased by 13.7 percent. While this is a marker to celebrate, there is much more to be done. Every person who dies by overdose in Arkansas leaves behind family, friends, and even entire communities in devastation.
ARORP has been in operation since November 2022 when the Arkansas Municipal League (AML) and the Association of Arkansas Counties (AAC) formed a partnership to distribute opioid settlement dollars. Over the next 10 to 15 years,
Arkansas’ cities and counties will continue to receive opioid settlement funding to abate and alleviate the impact of Arkansas’ opioid epidemic.
Impact of opioid settlement dollars
Since November 2022, ARORP has funded 142 projects in all 75 counties. This $26 million has funded:
• 384 beds for people in active recovery
• 26 prevention and education programs
• Approximately 60,000 kits of naloxone
• 11 Overdose Response Teams (ORTs)
• 35 peer recovery specialists
In the first six months of 2024, ARORP produced a quarterly report on its impact from January to June 2024. In this time frame:
• 228 families were reunited
• 2,947 people were provided recovery support who have an opioid nexus
• 247 people were provided sober living housing on
average each quarter
• 568 people found a job
• 323 people received official documentation, like a driver’s license or birth certificate
• 8,513 one-on-one recovery support meetings were held
• 2,107 mental health counseling sessions were provided
• 731 group counseling sessions were provided
• 2,766 naloxone doses were distributed (86,448 to date)
Each of these projects has made a profound impact on the cities and counties they serve. One program in particular, the Coalition Partnership Empowerment Project (COPE), successfully trained 13 partner organizations to develop community coalitions and apply for suitability, bringing more federal prevention dollars into Arkansas.
Applications funded
Prevention & Education
Recognizing the critical importance of prevention, ARORP has invested over $3 million of the total $26 million in prevention efforts over the past two years. This funding has supported coalitions, provided education, and implemented prevention programs and curricula. National data shows that every dollar spent on prevention can save $11 in future treatment and recovery costs. Based on this calculation, ARORP’s investment could potentially save over $33 million in treatment and recovery expenses, not to mention the unquantifiable physical and emotional suffering prevented for individuals and families impacted by opioid addiction.
Naloxone
In 2022, ARORP created the Arkansas Naloxone Bank. Naloxone Community Heroes are organizations that apply for credit to use at the Naloxone Bank to receive naloxone for distribution to families and others in need. Heroes host naloxone training and equip every trainee with a free naloxone kit.
In 2024, ARORP has 79 Naloxone Community Hero projects. Since 2022, community organizations and law enforcement have disbursed $2,021,511.48 in naloxone, totaling 86,448 doses altogether.
Family Support
You may have already heard about Hope Movement Coalition, an organization offering family support to Arkansans who have lost a loved one to an overdose. Hope Movement hosts Bridge the Gap, an overdose awareness event, annually in August. When an Arkansan dies by overdose, Hope Movement reaches out to their
AAC ARORP UPDATE
family and partners them with someone who has been in their shoes. They also offer funeral assistance, legal assistance for grandparents gaining legal guardianship, social service connections, and more. Hope Movement has been funded $1,011,030.00 to span two years.
Research and Reporting
To support data collection on all ARORP projects, ARORP has funded the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center (WYSAC) $398,087.00 to create a system to capture data for all ARORP projects. In addition, WYSAC will produce an annual evaluation to show the outcomes of projects funded by settlement dollars. Understanding the importance of transparency, WYSAC will also conduct a unique transparency evaluation for ARORP to ensure that citizens stay abreast of spending. Earlier this year, the ARORP executive team approved a new Sentinel project to improve data collection across the state.
Overdose Investigation
ARORP has funded 12 Overdose Response Teams (ORTs), which partner an overdose investigator with a peer recovery specialist to decrease substance misuse in their jurisdiction. Peer recovery specialists can intervene with people suffering from substance use disorder to get them into treatment. The investigator, on the other hand, can target people responsible for overdoses in Arkansas.
Treatment
ARORP has funded five treatment programs totaling $2.5 million across Desha, Van Buren, Franklin, Sevier, Logan, and Pulaski counties. In Desha County, Delta Memorial Hospital purchased a small, outpatient treatment facility to provide Medication-Assisted Treatment to residents in surrounding counties. Other funded programs include Horizon Renewal Center in Logan County, Natural State Recovery
AAC ARORP UPDATE
ARORP
Outpatient Treatment in Pulaski County, True Self Recovery in Van Buren and Franklin counties, and Sevier County Sheriff’s Department in Sevier County, which offers a variety of treatment and recovery services.
Recovery Housing
ARORP has funded 281 men’s recovery beds and 103 women’s recovery beds for a total of 384 beds. These projects serve people statewide and are located in Johnson, Logan, Sebastian, Independence, Lonoke, Pulaski, Faulkner, Perry, Boone, White, Arkansas, Miller, Hempstead, and Little River counties.
Peer Recovery Specialists
Peer recovery specialists are certified professionals with lived experience with substance misuse recovery. By meeting people where they are, peers are trained to provide support to people in active addiction. ARORP has funded peers in hospitals, detention centers, and crisis stabilization units. In addition, peers are a part of many projects with ARORP. This evidence-based solution is a great way to get more people into recovery.
In 2023, ARORP announced the Coalition Partnership Empowerment (COPE) project. For this project, ARORP partnered with CADCA to create a training that helps coalitions prepare to apply for the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant. ARORP had 13 community coalitions apply for and receive funding from ARORP. The COPE coalitions attended CADCA’s Opioid Coalition Academy. Out of the 13 new Arkansas community coalitions, seven were approved for the DFC grant. This will bring over $4 million dollars back to their communities across the next five years, and the seven coalitions will be eligible to extend the DFC grants for an additional five years after that.
Continued From Page 29 <<<
“This phenomenal achievement by ARORP, COPE and CADCA highlights the power of possibilities that we realize in partnership,” said retired Maj. Gen. Barrye L. Price, president and CEO of CADCA. “These seven community-based coalitions just became self-sustainable with this federal recognition, and everyone involved should be extremely proud.”
ARORP’s goal with the COPE project is to multiply the number of coalitions in Arkansas by providing them the foundation to sustain themselves. “We are eager to see how our investment will positively impact the state and further its prevention efforts,” said ARORP Director Kirk Lane. “This accomplishment marks a major step forward in combating substance misuse in the state, and we are fortunate to be part of these coalitions’ success stories.”
Project Spotlight: Sentinel Project
The ARORP Sentinel Project is designed to be an early warning system to detect dangerous and deadly substances in Arkansas’ cities and counties’ drug supplies. In this project, ARORP will create partnerships with organizations that serve on the frontlines of the fight against opioids: school districts, college campuses, and state and local law enforcement agencies.
Selected partners will receive and utilize TruNarc Handheld Analyzers to conduct field-based presumptive exams of suspected narcotics, precursors, and cutting agents. Each partner must report data to the Arkansas State Drug Director. With that data, the State Drug Director’s Office will publish a quarterly report regarding findings. Through this report, Arkansas cities and counties can begin to receive region-specific data informing the status of opioids and other dangerous substances in their communities.
On Aug. 1, 2024, the Sentinel Project was announced. Since its announcement, there have been 10 approved applications and 14 applications in total. This proposal is currently seeking applicants from school districts and college
Did an aspect of county government “make news” recently in your county? Did any of your county officials or staff get an award, appointment or pat on the back? Please let us know about it for the next edition of County Lines magazine. You can write up a couple of paragraphs about it, or if something ran in your local paper, call and ask them to forward the story to us. We encourage you or your newspaper to attach a good quality photo, too: e-mail csmith@arcounties.org.
ARORP Deputy Director Tenesha Barnes and ARORP Director Kirk Lane unveil the Sentinal Project during a news conference. The project is designed to be an early warning system to detect dangerous and deadly substances in Arkansas’ cities’ and counties’ drug supplies.
campuses specifically. We have eight partners in law enforcement, one school district, and one college campus spread around the state.
Project Spotlight: Life Care Specialist
In March of this year, ARORP released the Life Care Specialist application. The Christopher Wolf Crusade (CwC) developed the Life Care Specialist (LCS) healthcare position to educate patients and prevent misuse. The LCSs are integrated members of healthcare teams who fight the American opioid epidemic by providing alternative pain management and mental wellness solutions for patients in need.
When ARORP learned of this new healthcare position, they saw the need for this program in Arkansas. Partnered with the CwC, ARORP released the Life Care Specialist application, which allows hospitals in need to apply for an LCS.
Project Spotlight: ReviveAR
In February, ARORP released ReviveAR, an app designed to prevent and treat opioid abuse in Arkansas. ReviveAR is available for free download in the Google and Apple app stores. The ReviveAR app serves as a resource for community members, offering a variety of features. Users can learn how
to identify a drug overdose and how to administer Naloxone. They can also access resources for overdose prevention, recovery and family support, locations across the state for Drug Take Back disposals to safely dispose of unused or expired drugs, and the ARORP website.
2025 and Beyond
In 2025 and beyond, ARORP will continue to thoughtfully invest the counties’ and cities’ opioid settlement funding in evidence-based abatement projects in your communities. We’d like to remind county judges that your signature of support is required along with the application for any proposed project that would serve people in your county (and signatures of mayors are also required for projects intended to serve first-class cities). Your input is valuable, and we welcome detailed feedback in your letter of support or by phone. We encourage everyone to follow ARORP on social media for details about ongoing and future education opportunities, events, celebrations, and ARORP/project updates. And as always, we thank you for leading on behalf of your communities and families, and uniting in response to the Arkansas opioid epidemic, so we can work together with common purpose to save and restore lives in your communities and families.
Artificial Intelligence is no longer an experiment in scientific laboratories. This year alone, more than 180 million users have checked in with ChatGPT, a chatbot that answers prompts. — Photo courtesy of iStock.
AI: Not a faraway issue for counties
Story by Werner Trieschmann Special to County Lines
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans. These intelligent systems can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as recognizing speech, making decisions, and solving problems.
AI encompasses a variety of technologies, including machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing (NLP). Machine learning involves training algorithms on large datasets to recognize patterns and make predictions. Deep learning, a subset of machine learning, uses neural networks with many layers to analyze complex data. NLP enables machines to understand and respond to human language.
The two paragraphs above were written by CoPilot, the Microsoft Artificial Intelligence touted as “your everyday AI companion.” The prompt that was put into the CoPilot text box was “Describe AI.” It took CoPilot about two seconds to provide an answer. However you want to describe it — a wish-granting genie
coming out of a bottle or all manner of trouble coming out of Pandora’s Box — artificial intelligence has escaped the bonds of experimental scientific labs. The first big public splash of AI came in November 2022 when the company OpenAI released ChatGPT, a chatbot that answers prompts. Almost two years later, more than 180 million users have checked in with ChatGPT.
Question to Co-Pilot: What is love?
Answer: Love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can mean different things to different people. At its core, love often involves deep affection, care, and connection with someone or something.
Today, there are already stories of AI helping stressed-out families develop a weekly meal plan in the blink of an eye and music fans put together a list of songs for Spotify. Of course, AI is being harnessed for weightier problems such as researchers generating new proteins and new drugs to battle specific cancers.
At the same time, it’s easy to understand how modern society in general has become numb to celebrated advances in technology. Perhaps many look at AI as just one more marvel that will ultimately be a minor change, not unlike the equivalent of a yearly upgrade on a cell phone. In other words, AI is a nice new toy but it’s not earth-shattering. The counter argument is Artificial Intelligence, which is only in the early stages of development, will become a fixture in every aspect of our lives and specifically in the way we work.
Living with AI
Chris Villines, executive director for Arkansas Association of Counties, says Artificial Intelligence is not science fiction or a faraway issue for county governments and their employees.
“It’s here on our doorstep,” notes Villines. “If we aren’t prepared, it’s going to hit us square on the nose.”
Villines believes the way fully to address AI is to learn about it first. The warning also includes the idea that AI itself is not static and will change as time moves on.
“If you don’t start learning about it now, the learning curve when you have to deal with it will be pretty steep,” says Jim Grinder, Cyber/Network Security Engineer for AAC. “AI is going to grow exponentially.”
Government officials around the country are already making plans to address AI head on. In May 2023, the National Association of Counties formed The Artificial Intelligence Exploratory Committee to “analyze the landscape of generative AI as it applies to counties.” The Committee has released a report: AI County Compass: A Comprehensive Toolkit for Local Governance and Implementation of Artificial Intelligence.
The Committee’s Toolkit separates artificial intelligence into two distinct categories:
AI
AI is like a digital assistant automating processes that organize data for employees to make informed decisions. Examples include smart devices such as lights in the courthouse or self-driving cars that collect data. Other examples include transcribing apps, voice command prompts, and customer relationship management scripts used in chatbots. This is similar to a behind-the-scenes advisor.
GenAI
GenAI, such as ChatGPT, generates creative content, which not only assists in regular tasks but also is capable of drafting documents, designing educational materials, or creating public service announcements, showcasing its ability to produce new and original content when you ask it questions, otherwise known as prompts.
In terms of exactly how to incorporate AI and GenAI into county government functions, Villines stresses that it can be-
gin with, “any elected office holder in the county can lead the charge. They can start thinking about it in their offices. Start with the question of ‘What do you think it can do for us?’”
Villines speculates that counties may want to hold brainstorming sessions that account for all types of work in the county and not just the ones that deal with data on computers.
The Toolkit report encourages officials to use their imaginations when it comes to AI but also to keep in mind the boundaries that exist.
“The sky is not the limit [for AI]. However, while thinking of solutions for the impossible, keep in mind that AI and GenAI are just tools and that these technologies are evolving rapidly. The responsibility of reviewing and utilizing the tools and the subsequent outcomes still resides with the county and users.”
Practical Applications, Real Fears
The theories of what AI could do in the future and the realworld uses of AI in the present are still far apart. Villines sees that gap closing sooner rather than later.
“The practical applications [for AI] are going to be here pretty quickly,” says Villines.
As an example, Villines brings up a research professor in Fayetteville who has garnered quite a bit of attention for an AI program that can detect and send out robots to fix potholes in county roads. If the program works as intended, the only human required in the process is the one who initiates and then oversees the road repair done by AI-controlled robots.
If you believe, as many do, the promise of AI is sky high, you should also acknowledge the very real concerns that many have already raised about the technology. Change is never easy, but artificial intelligence has the potential to be an enormous disruptive force in society.
1. Privacy and security. Considering that AI is a highpowered tool, who is to say that it will be used only for good by people with the best of intentions? Cybercrime is already on the rise. Could AI make fighting cybercrime and cybercriminals that much tougher? AI can sift through enormous mounds of private and public data. Will it be able to keep private information private?
2. Jobs. Though AI might feel like a brand new threat, there is a long history of innovations that have put people out of work. The invention of the automobile drastically reduced the need for horseshoes, saddles, etc. The emergence of the internet had a wide-ranging impact on the employment landscape. Almost at the same time as AI came into public view, stories were out about jobs being eliminated because of it.
AAC FEATURE AI
3. The rise of the robots. Could it really be true? Could the rise of AI be like the Terminator movie series (where robots take over a future Earth) come to life? The debate about how much AI can do and how much or how little humans will be able to control it is underway.
Question to Co-Pilot: What are some fears about AI?
Answer: One of the biggest fears is that AI could become so advanced that humans might lose control over it. This includes the possibility of AI systems making decisions without human oversight or even developing goals that conflict with human interests.
The Here and Now
A future made up of street-to-street combat with robots is unlikely but artificial intelligence has arrived and, going forward, humans will deal with it one way or another. A purely pessimistic view doesn’t take into account the upside of innovation. If the human race figured out how to harness fire and flight and a thousand other advances, it stands to reason it can do the same with AI.
That said, the mere idea of AI is a daunting one. The feeling of powerlessness in the face of a computer that can process so much information so fast is completely under-
Continued From Page 31
standable. If I can forget where my keys are that I have in my hand, how can I expect to match wits with AI, much less direct and manage an AI program.
Grinder is of the view that AI is going to be doing things that we simply can’t imagine.
“It’s going to be built in a way to take care of itself,” says Grinder. “AI is going to help manage AI.”
On his AI to-do list, Villines has the creation of new government policies to protect the information that will be gathered and disseminated through AI programs.
“Part of our goal here is to work on sample polices and then share them with counties to help them,” he said.
While Villines understands the feelings of unease when faced with Artificial Intelligence, he wants Arkansas to not be behind the curve. How AI can help and how it could hurt is very much unknown at this point. What is certain is that it’s here and, for Villines, that means there’s only one approach.
“It’s best to go on and embrace it,” he said.
Question to Co-Pilot: Does Artificial Intelligence mean us harm?
Answer: Artificial Intelligence (AI) itself doesn’t have intentions or desires, so it doesn’t mean harm or good. It’s a tool created and controlled by humans. However, the way AI is used can have positive or negative impacts.
AAC hosts meeting of the Southern Counties Association
The AAC recently hosted the Council of Southern Counties Association in Little Rock for its annual conference. Attendees came from 11 state associations: Arkansas, Louisiana, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky and Maryland. Each year, a different state hosts the conference. During the meeting, association leaders discussed legislation recently passed in their respective states and had dedicated discussions about working with urban and rural counties and housing struggles. Legislative Director for Justice & Public Safety at the National Association of Counties (NACo) Brett Mattson
spoke about changes in federal law that will affect counties.
After informative sessions over the course of two days, the group took time to visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center and to speak with longtime Central High School Principal Nancy Rousseau inside the school. The group also toured the William J. Clinton Presidential Library.
— Story and Photo by Sarah Perry AAC Communications Coordinator
Virginia Association of Counties Executive Director Dean Lynch speaks about recently passed legislation in his state that has or will affect counties.
House speaker designate plans to build on strong foundation
Rep. Brian Evans of Cabot was elected Speaker of the House designate at the close of the 2024 Fiscal Session after receiving 91 of 100 votes.
Evans believes his call into public service began when he was at the Arkansas State Capitol as a child. At 14, he served as a page in the Arkansas House. In the summer of 1985, he attended Arkansas Boys State, where he spent a week “learning about civic duty, governance and being a statesman,” he said.
“Obviously at that age and time, I had a lot of career path dreams. Life comes with its changes and its decisions,” he said. “Ultimately many years later, settling in Cabot, putting down our roots, starting our family, starting our business, that nurturing was still there; that longing to give back to a community who had been so gracious to us when we first moved there.”
His experience in public service includes serving on the Cabot School Board for 10 years beginning in 2011 and working with civic groups and youth sports.
Evans said his grandmother was a public school teacher for 42 years. He remembers sitting at her kitchen table while she was doing her schoolwork and asking what she was doing and why. Her response was “to make a difference in the life of a child.”
Evans said he is reminded of her response when he is serving others in various capacities.
“I try to live by that today with everything that I try to do in public service,” he said. “It’s always about making a difference in someone’s life that otherwise can’t change their lives themselves.”
Evans, who was born and raised in Northeast Arkansas, was elected to represent District 68 in the House of Representatives in 2018.
When asked what bill he is most proud of, he pointed to a bill he sponsored with Sen. Ricky Hill during the 93rd General Assembly in 2021.
This bill, which eventually became Act 67, amended the Telecommunications Regulatory Reform Act of 2013 to allow cities and counties to partner with broadband providers to build infrastructure for broadband service, which in turn allowed for faster expansion of broadband service, Evans said.
“A government entity may, on its own or in partnership with a private entity, apply for funding under a program for grants or loans to be used for the construction, acquisition, or leasing of facilities, land or building to deploy broadband services in unserved areas,” according to the law.
Evans feels this bill had a great impact on the state and said he still receives comments about it years later.
During the 94th General Assembly, Evans served as the
chairman of the House Education Committee. He also served on the House Insurance and Commerce Committee and the Joint Budget Committee.
He said the idea of campaigning for the Speaker of the House role came in 2021. At that time, there was some uncertainty whether longtime Speaker of the House Matthew Shepherd would run for a third term. He did, and Evans along with the rest of House supported Shepherd wholeheartedly.
For his eventual Speaker of the House campaign, Evans had a three-point platform “Build, Strengthen and Empower,” and promised to continue the traditions and strong foundation within the House of Representatives.
“Over time, we have been blessed with a long list of great leadership in the speaker position. I’m very blessed that I get the opportunity to build upon that,” he said. “We have a great foundation of principles, the sanctity of the house, the processes of the institution, so I don’t have to come in and recreate the wheel; just build upon a great foundation that is already there.”
Evans said he plans to continue Shepherd’s tradition of being fair.
“If you ask any member, they will say that Matthew has always been extremely fair with all members and every initia-
Story and Photos by SARAH PERRY
AAC Communications Coordinator
AAC FEATURE
HOUSE
tive that those members have had … I have committed to being firm, fair and consistent,” he said. “I very much respect the sanctity of the institution, the honor of this service and the humbleness by which we are supposed to come into this facility every day. I want us to be very firm in our roles of that. I will be fair in all dealings and decisions and when it’s over, whenever that time may be, if folks say, ‘Well, he was always firm, fair and consistent,’ then that’s a good legacy for me to leave for the next speaker.”
Looking ahead to the 95th General Assembly Regular Session, Evans said he is aware of some topics of discussion that will affect county government including prison expansion, mental health and some bills to clean up the implementation of the Learns Act and the Protect Arkansas Act, which were both passed during the previous legislative session.
Evans said he and Arkansas Senate President Pro Tempore Sen. Bart Hester have had several discussions about prison expansion, and this is an issue they both would like to see resolved under their leadership. Evans feels mental health legislation affects county government because individuals with mental health struggles often end up in county facilities.
Another topic he expects to come up is rural healthcare. The state has a shortage of healthcare workers and struggles with maternal healthcare.
According to the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement, “Arkansas has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation, making it one of the riskiest places to have a baby.” The
Continued From Page 33
state also has the third-highest infant mortality rate.
Gov. Sarah Sanders created a committee in March to develop a plan to improve the state’s maternal health infrastructure and outcomes.
“Recommendations include wider use of telehealth services and mobile health units, adding more obstetrics and gynecology residency positions at hospitals, and improving pregnant Arkansans’ access to transportation so they can get to and from doctors’ appointments,” according to an Arkansas Advocate report about the committee’s findings in September.
Going into the next session, Evans encourages county officials to build relationships with their legislators now.
“Their first contact with their state (representative) or their state senator should not be in a time of crisis. They need to initiate and build those relationships,” he said.
He feels that good communication between the various counties and the legislators across the state is important.
“It seems there is a great and wide network of communication between the different counties across the state. That’s probably a tribute to the Association of Arkansas Counties who keeps them informed but also hosts so many events throughout the year for them to come and network and share and collaborate. It makes us all better because it promotes communication,” he said.
Evans and his wife, Melissa, are the proud parents of two children, Laina and Landon.
House majority and minority leaders named
The House Republican caucus elected Rep. Howard Beaty, Jr. of Crossett as House Majority Leader. Beaty defeated Reps. Keith Brooks and Aaron Pilkington to replace House Majority Leader Rep. Austin McCollum. Beaty is in his second term in the Arkansas House, and he represents District 95, which includes Ashley and Chicot counties.
During the 94th General Assembly, Beaty served as vice chair of the House Revenue and Taxation Committee. He also serves on the House Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development Committee.
In May, the Democratic Party of Arkansas announced that Rep. Andrew Collins of Little Rock will replace Rep. Tippi McCullough of Little Rock as House Minority Leader. Collins, who is in his third term in the Arkansas House, represents District 73, which includes portions of Pulaski County. During the 94th General Assembly, he served on the House Judiciary Committee and the House City, County and Local Affairs Committee.
Above: Rep. Howard Beaty, Jr. (left) of Crossett, who is in his second term, has been elected to serve as House Majority Leader. Meanwhile, Rep. Andrew Collins (right) of Little Rock was named House Minority Leader by the Democratic Party of Arkansas. Photos courtesy of Arkansas House of Representatives.
Rep. Lanny Fite recognized during summit
Former Saline County Judge is 2024 recipient of Wes Fowler Award
Story and Photos by SARAH PERRY AAC Communications Coordinator
Because Rep. Lanny Fite, the recipient of the 2024 Wes Fowler Advocacy Award, was unable to attend the AAC Annual Conference in August, he was recently recognized at the AAC Legislative Summit held Oct. 23 and 24 at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute in Conway County. Fite received a warm welcome and standing ovation by the AAC Legislative Committee and AAC Board of Director when he stopped by the summit. Officials in attendance shared stories of their experiences with Fite and his continued support of elected officials. Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison applauded his work on 911 reform and AAC Executive Director Chris Villines mentioned Fite’s ongoing work to increase the Homestead Tax Credit.
After serving as Saline County Judge for 16 years, Fite has been representing District 83 since 2015. During the last three sessions of the Legislature, Fite served as chair of the House City, County, and Local Affairs Committee.
“Anyone who knew Wes Fowler knew he was dedicated to county government. I am honored and humbled to receive the Wes Fowler Award,” Fite said. “This award reflects the hard work and commitment of everyone who has supported me in serving our communities. Thank you to the Association of Arkansas Counties and all who work
tirelessly to make Arkansas a better place.”
The Wes Fowler Advocacy Award was established in 2017 following the death of Fowler, who spent decades working in Madison County government before finishing his career as the AAC’s Government Relations Director. The annual award recognizes the county or district official who best embodies Fowler’s dedication to local government and demonstrates tireless work in boldly advocating for the counties of Arkansas.
Above: AAC Board President Debbie Wise (left) and AAC Executive Director Chris Villines (right) pose with Rep. Lanny Fite, the Wes Fowler Advocacy Award receipient.
Above: Members of the AAC Legislative Committee and AAC Board of Directors gather with Rep. Lanny Fite (center) for a group photo during the AAC Legislative Summit held Oct. 23 and 24 at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute in Conway County.
RMF legal counsel honored by national jail institute
AAC Risk Management Fund
Legal Counsel JaNan Thomas recently was honored by the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) for her “outstanding service to the law enforcement and corrections profession across the country.” NIJO Executive Director Tate McCotter presented Thomas with the Executive Director’s Award Aug. 29 during the organization’s annual JAILCON24 Southern Regional Conference, held in Mobile, Alabama.
McCotter said Thomas has been
a rock star at NIJO conferences and demonstrates capacities in the corrections field like no other. In his speech at JAILCON24, he said, “As we thought about the description (of the Executive Director’s award) and this year’s award at JAILCON South, there was one name that kept coming back to mind — that was JaNan Arnold Thomas.”
As general counsel for the AAC RMF, Thomas oversees the handling and defense of all jail liability lawsuits for the fund. But McCotter said her expertise goes beyond that.
“How does she impact jails beyond just being an amazing attorney who defends our jails in a courtroom? She has become a ‘go-to’ resource for the jails in Arkansas,” McCotter said.
Thomas said she was surprised yet honored to receive the award.
“I am truly honored and humbled to receive this award. The opportunity to work with and learn from the amazing law enforcement and corrections professionals at NIJO has been a privilege for which I am deeply grateful. This award further encourages me to continue to push forward toward more legal based solutions, policies, and training for law
enforcement and corrections officers in Arkansas,” she said.
NIJO is dedicated to serving those who operate jails, detention and correctional facilities across the country. NIJO recognizes and understands the enormous liability and increasing litigation facing administrators. The organization provides a compilation of legal-based resources and information to assist agencies in making facilities safer and more secure and in helping them proactively defend against frivolous litigation to protect against adverse publicity and liability.
Detention and corrections professionals who attend the annual JAILCON Conference learn more about what the law requires to run a constitutionally safe detention facility; discover what’s new in corrections-based products and services; interact with other individuals in corrections who offer solutions for some of the challenges and difficulties they face in their profession every day; and get a much-needed morale boost, plus the opportunity to feel appreciated and valued in their careers. Thomas has served as a presenter many times at JAILCON.
We want to hear from YOU
The family of former Mississippi County Judge A.A. “Shug” Banks attended the Aug. 29 ceremony honoring the long-time county official. Family attending the ceremony included (from left) Elizabeth Mills and Stephanie Bynum, Chuck and Nancy Banks, Rafe and Lindsey Banks, Rose Schafer and Mary Louis Banks. Lucille Banks, wife of Shug Banks, was unable to attend but was present in spirit.
Former Mississippi County judge honored with plaque
Judge A.A. “Shug” Banks was instrumental in founding the AAC
Former Mississippi County Judge A.A. “Shug” Banks was honored Aug. 29 with a plaque unveiling ceremony at the Blytheville Courthouse. More than 60 people attended the event to celebrate Judge Banks’ outstanding contributions to county governance, Mississippi County, and Arkansas.
Among his many achievements, Judge Banks is known for his role in shaping the historic Amendment 55, Act 742 of 1977, which redefined and modernized the structure of Arkansas county governments. He also was instrumental in founding the Association of Arkansas of Counties (AAC) in 1968, serving as its first president. The AAC now represents nearly 1,400 county and district officials across nine different associations. He also served two terms as president of the County Judges’ Association of Arkansas.
“Throughout the Mississippi County Courthouse in Blytheville, you will find recognition of our rich history and adding a plaque of Judge Banks allows us to further tell that story,” Mississippi County Judge John Alan Nelson said.
“Judge Banks was an icon of public service for Mississippi County and the state. He was a mentor of mine and he embodied the pragmatic leadership and a spirit of cooperation that we should all aspire to follow today. Mississippi County and Arkansas are better because of him.”
Banks served as Mississippi County Judge from Jan. 1, 1961, until Dec. 31, 1980, marking the longest tenure in the county’s history. His dedication to public service extended statewide and nationally. Judge Banks was a board director for the National Association of Counties (NACo).
Judge Banks passed away on Oct. 8, 2001, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to public service and community betterment.
Judge Banks was honored at the historic Mississippi County Courthouse in Blytheville. The 103-year-old courthouse underwent a $18 million renovation completed in 2022. The courthouse renovation has been recognized by Preserve Arkansas and the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture. It is also one of five courthouse projects to be recognized by the National Center of State Courts for “exhibiting sensitive additions to historic courthouses.”
Story and Photo by Madeline Roberts
The Peacock Group
AAC MEET YOUR BOARD MEMBERS
County: Stone
Board Position: Member
Elected Office: Assessor
AAC Board Service: 2017-Present
County Service: 1995-Present
County: Craighead
Board Position: Member
Elected Office: Sheriff
AAC Board Service: 2017-Present
County Service: 1991-Present
Heather Stevens
What is your No. 1 priority as part of the AAC Board of Directors? My No. 1 priority as a member of the AAC Board is to be a team player that wishes to contribute to the betterment of county government.
What have you gained from being active in the Arkansas County Assessor’s Association? Being an active member of the Assessor’s Association has given me the ability to communicate with like-minded people to enhance my skills and knowledge of the Assessor’s office.
Marty Boyd
What is your No. 1 priority as part of the AAC Board of Directors? My No. 1 priority as part of the AAC Board of Directors is to make sure each county in Arkansas has a voice dealing with the Legislature and that counties stay as efficient as possible.
What have you gained from being active in the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Association? From being active in the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Association, I have gained the networking ability and the ability to stay in contact with other sheriffs in Arkansas and to help with issues that would affect all of us.
WES MANUS
AAC litigation counsel is dedicated public servant
Story and Photo by Sarah Perry AAC Communications Coordinator
Wesley Manus, AAC’s newest litigation counsel, has proven himself in combat zones and now applies his broad range of experience as part of the voice for Arkansas’ 75 counties.
Since getting his first job at 15 — actually, two jobs at the same time — Manus has worked “in nearly every role imaginable” from food service to construction and from dishwasher to director while earning three graduate degrees along the way.
In the legal profession, Manus has experience as a litigator in private practice, law clerk in state court, legal extern in federal court, and a diverse set of practice-oriented internships, including at the Attorney General’s Office while in law school. He also served as the executive editor for UA Little Rock Law Review, where his legal research was selected for publication.
Before law school, Manus served for a decade in the U.S. Air Force, first as an enlisted member after high school and later as an intelligence officer. Already a seasoned intelligence analyst after four deployments, he vividly recalls being on leave after returning from overseas and waking up to the horrors of 9/11.
“Those moments underscored the significance of public service. Every part of our country came together in taking action. It instilled a strong sense of purpose in my role as a military member and teammate,” said Manus.
After another overseas deployment, Manus focused inward and graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in political science and earned his commission in the Air Force. He served in Ramstein Germany while directing operations throughout Europe and Africa — earning Air Force Plans Officer of the Year — before moving to Washington, D.C., to work in the Pentagon. Along the way, he earned a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Oklahoma. He would later attend the William H. Bowen School of Law and the Clinton School of Public Service.
Manus has traveled to 44 counties and lived in five of them,
visiting the Great Wall, and trekking to Machu Picchu along the way. He said the most interesting places he has lived are Bangladesh and Germany.
Manus said the same calling to service that inspired him to join the military has driven him throughout his life.
“Public service has been a theme throughout my professional and academic career. Even my private roles have interfaced with public service in some way, whether as a defense contractor, a political campaign manager, or in private legal practice. My academic pursuits have similarly led and followed my public service career. I’ve been blessed with many opportunities to learn and grow as a public servant and apply the things learned along the way,” he said.
Between his career in the U.S. Air Force and now, Manus managed Leslie Rutledge’s first successful attorney general campaign in 2014 and served as the emergency preparedness director at UAMS.
Since joining the association in August, Manus has worked on both state and federal cases. On the state side, he has defended counties and county departments in automobile accident lawsuits. In federal court, he works almost exclusively on civil rights cases.
“AAC is a fantastic place to work. We have top-notch professionals in all specialties, and I am honored to be part of the team. We support all 75 counties, and I enjoy our strong connection to every part of my home state,” he said.
In his free time, Manus and his daughter, Evelyn, 7, enjoy all the wonderful things the Natural State has to offer, including swimming, hiking, camping, and fishing. They also enjoy attending church, traveling, visiting science museums and zoos, painting, reading, playing video games, and cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks together. They are currently planning their next trip together.
climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, kayaking in lochs of the Scottish Highlands, skiing the Alps,
ASSESSORS
The group held their 70th annual Fall Conference in Springdale/Washington County Oct. 22-25.
Above: The Assessors’ Association of Arkansas installed its 2024-2025 executive board and officers during their conference. From left to right are AAC Board Member Dana Baker (Pope County), Executive Board Member Gail Snyder (White County), Executive Board Member Sherry Hicks (Yell County), Vice-President Krissy Lewis (Faulkner County), President Russell Hill (Washington County), Secretary/Treasurer Shannon Cotton (Logan County) Executive Board Member Sheila Ridley (Sevier County), Executive Board Member Becky Hogan (Lee County), and AAC Board Member Heather Stevens (Stone County).
a
Above Left: Franklin County Assessor Rose McKinnon and Columbia County Assessor Shannon Hair take notes during
Principals of Property Law workshop. Above Middle: Now Immediate Past President Diann Ballard of Jackson County presents the annual Outstanding Assessment Coordination Division Employee Staff Award to Lynn Davis, who works in administrative support. Above Right: Benton County Assessor Roderick Grieve listens during a Valuation of Subsidized Housing Section 42 workshop.
AAC PHOTO RECAP
GUARDIAN RFID
The annual Guardian RFID Users Conference was hosted at the AAC headquarters on Oct. 15.
Jail staff from sheriff’s offices across the state participated in the daylong training.
Left: Lt. Jaimie Jordan and Lt. Tonya Parker of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office listen to the presentation.
Right: Chris Riedmueller, MBA, of Guardian RFID speaks during the annual Users Conference at the AAC office.
Above: Staff from the Pulaski County Juvenile Detention Center attend the training presentation.
Above: Sgt. Billy Perry, with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, speaks about how Guardian RFID is used in his county’s facility.
Right:
CIRCUIT CLERKS
Far Left: Keith Rancifer, Dawn Williams, and County/Circuit Clerk Terri Hollingsworth, all of Pulaski County, chat during a sunset boat tour on the lake.
Left: Rosemary Sinclair of Cleveland County asks a question during a discussion.
The Arkansas Circuit Clerks Association gathered at DeGray Lake State Park in Clark County Oct. 9-11.
Above Left: From left, Polk County Circuit Clerk Michelle Schnell, Montgomery County/ Circuit Clerk Regina Powell, Benton County Circuit Clerk Brenda DeShields and AAC Board member, and Cleburne County Circuit Clerk Heather Smith look at files on their phones while discussing how documents are filed in their offices. Above Right: After an election was held earlier in the meeting, Clark County District Judge Randy Hill swears in the members of the association’s Board of Directors and Continuing Education Board.
Above: A group of circuit clerks are all smiles after being awarded technology grants for their offices. From left are Greene County Circuit Clerk Lesa Gramling, Polk County Circuit Clerk Michelle Schnell, Johnson County Circuit Clerk Monica King, Miller County Circuit Clerk Penny Kilcrease, Jefferson County Circuit Clerk Flora Bishop, Logan County Circuit Clerk April Hice and Baxter County Circuit Clerk Canda Reese.
AAC PHOTO RECAP
SUPERVISOR BOOTCAMP
Supervisor Bootcamp, which took place at AAC, was hosted by the AAC Risk Management Fund.
Right: Nevada County Clerk Tammie Rose takes notes during a presentation. Far Right: More than 130 people were in attendance from across the state for the daylong training session.
Left: Worker’s Compensation Claims Manager Misty Petrus gives an in-depth talk about worker’s comp, including the responsibilities of employees, counties and the AAC during the process.
Right: AAC Legal Counsel Mallory Floyd, who organized and led the training, welcomes attendees at the start of the day.
Above: Randolph County Clerk Rhonda Blevins asks a question.
Above: AAC Legal Counsel Mallory Floyd, right, talks with Pope County Clerk Pam Ennis and Chief Deputy Clerk Karri Warren during a break between sessions.
CORONERS
The Arkansas Coroners Association hosted a 40-hour Arkansas Medicolegal Death Investigators Training in Little Rock.
From left, Newton County Deputy Coroner Don-
Wheeler, Boone County Deputy Coroner Laura Bolding and Laura Chandler with the Benton Police Department work together on a tabletop exercise. Left: Brittney Smock, a forensic technician at the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, listens to a presentation.
Above Left: Saline County Coroner, President of the Arkansas Coroners Association, and AAC Board member Kevin Cleghorn leads the training. Above Middle: Pictured is Yell County Deputy Coroner Bailey Heflin. Sitting behind her is Izard County Deputy Coroner Roy Roberts. Above Right: Nokomis Carter with the Arkansas Department of Health presents information about the Arkansas Violent Death Reporting System and the State Unintentional Death Reporting System.
Far Left:
netta
Right: Coroners, deputy coroners, law enforcement and a forensic technician attended the 40-hour Arkansas Medicolegal Death Investigators Training across two weekends in October.
AAC PHOTO RECAP TREASURERS
The Arkansas County Treasurers Association gathered Sept. 18-20 in Benton County.
: Meeting attendees had the opportunity to visit Crystal
Far Left: Marion County Treasurer Susann Crespino poses a question. Left: Faulkner County Treasurer Scott Sanson points to a spreadsheet while discussing the process he uses when making budget projections.
Far Left: Pike County Treasurer Loletia Rather, left, holds a microphone as Tera Litaker, who works in the Van Buren County Treasurer’s Office, asks a question during a panel discussion. Right: Izard County Treasurer Warren Sanders leads a discussion about the timeline for ARPA funding.
Above: Phillips County Treasurer Santresa Mayfield, left, asks a question during a session. Also pictured is Jefferson County Treasurer Vonysha Goodwin.
Above
Bridges Museum of American Art. After touring the museum, the group posed for a picture.
JUDGES
The County Judges Association of Arkansas held its fall meeting Sept. 11-13 in Jonesboro/Craighead County.
Left: Attorney General Tim Griffin was the keynote speaker during the judges’ luncheon.
Right: U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford, whose district includes Crawford County, was on hand to help honor retiring Arkansas State Highway Commission Chairman Alec Farmer.
Above Left: Craighead County Judge Marvin Day (right) presents a proclamation to retiring Arkansas State Highway Commission Chairman Alec Farmer for his 25 years of service.
Above Right: Pictured are Lonoke County Judge Doug Erwin, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, and Stone County Judge Stacey Avey.
Far Left: Van Buren County Judge Dale James introduces luncheon speaker, Attorney General Tim Griffin.
Left: White County Judge Lisa Brown listens to a presentation.
COUNTY CLERKS
The Arkansas Association of County Clerks gathered Sept. 4-6 at Mount Magazine State Park in Logan County.
Above: Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston swears in the newly elected board. From left are President Margaret Darter, 1st Vice President Rhonda Blevins, 2nd Vice President Phyllis Rhynes, Secretary Brandi McCoy, Treasurer Karen Smith, At-Large Members Canda Reese and Tammy Kimble Wiltz and AAC Board Delegates Deanna Sivley and Doug Curtis.
Above Left: From left, Clark County Clerk Tracy Pruitt, Pike County Clerk Randee Edwards and Pike County Deputy Clerk Kristie Harris listen to a speaker. Above Right: Mike Patty of Kofile; Baxter County Clerk Canda Reese and Cleburne County Clerk Rachelle Evans are all smiles while Park Interpreter Alex Hedegard sings the group a song on Signal Hill, the highest point in Arkansas. Right: AAC Legal Counsel Lindsay French talks through the clerks’ legislative package in preparation for the upcoming legislative session. Far Right: Pulaski County Assistant Chief Deputy Candace Edwards speaks with Benton County Deputy Clerk Tiffany Underwood during a break between presentations.
AAC WORKERS’ COMPENSATION TRUST
When you participate in the AAC Workers’ Compensation Trust, you can relax in the hands of professional staff members who are going to take care of your needs. The AAC team has decades of experience in handling county government claims –they’re simply the best at what they do!
Did we mention that participants in our plan are accustomed to getting money back? Since we started paying dividends in 1997, the AAC Workers’ Compensation Trust has declared more than $32 MILLION dollars in dividends, payable to members of the fund. In fact, we mailed $550,000 in savings back to member counties in July 2024. The service is available for any size county government and other county government-related entities.
We’ve got you covered.
DID YOU KNOW?
We offer a Volunteer Firefighters Supplemental Income Protection Plan that provides additional protection for loss of income above the $20 per week Temporary Total Disability (TTD) offers!
COVERAGE INCLUDES
• Weekly temporary total disability benefits up to the maximum allowed
• Weekly benefits for 52 weeks or the period the firefighter is eligible to receive TTD benefits
• $10,000 death benefit to eligible dependent
The rural volunteer fire department must be covered by a county participating in AAC Workers’ Comp Trust. Cost is $20 per firefighter; with a minimum annual premium of $240 regardless of number of firefighters.
AAC NEWS FROM NACO
www.naco.org
About NACo – The Voice of America’s Counties
National Association of Counties (NACo) is the only national organization that represents county governments in the U.S. NACo provides essential services to the nation’s 3,068 counties. NACo advances issues with a unified voice before the federal government, improves the public’s understanding of county government, assists counties in finding and sharing innovative solutions through education and research and provides value-added services to save counties and taxpayers money.
NACo honors 5 who completed leadership program
We would like to acknowledge and congratulate the November NACo Leadership Academy graduates from Arkansas. They join over 10,000 graduates and current participants from across the country benefitting from the 12week online program enabling existing and emerging county leaders to achieve their highest potential.
• Cassandra Fields, Director of Juvenile Court Services, Washington County
• Laura Bates, Collector, Miller County
• Tammy Harp, Director of Animal Shelter, Washington County
• Thomas Corona, Lead Juvenile Officer, Washington County
• Tiffiany Horton, Chief Deputy of Personal Property, Washington County
Start the new year with Leadership Development. Our
January Cohort is right around the corner. Join us in investing in the workforce – empowering them to become better leaders today and into the future. We are offering 10th Anniversary scholarships through December 31.
Developed by General Colin Powell, the Professional Development Academy and NACo, the High Performance Leadership Academy is an online 12-week program that helps your workforce develop fundamental, practical leadership skills to deliver results for counties and residents.
The curriculum was developed by the Professional Development Academy in conjunction with business executives, public sector leaders, world-renowned academics, and thought leaders. It was designed specifically to address the unique challenges and opportunities of serving in county government.
To date, more than 70 of Arkansas’ county elected officials and their staff have completed this program.
Go to https://www.naco.org/page/high-performance-leadership-academy to register for the next cohort.
This publication was made possible with the support of these advertising partners who have helped to underwrite the cost of County Lines. They deserve your consideration and patronage when making your purchasing decisions. For more information on how to partner with County Lines, please call Christy L. Smith at (501) 372-7550.
