KEN LARSON
What are the key issues facing Miller County today?
Top two: Jail expansion and road improvements. The primary function of the Quorum Court is to manage the County’s (the peoples) money. It should do this in a responsible, timely and efficient manner. Whether it be roads, employee wages, courthouse improvements or any other County responsibility, the Quorum Court needs to do the right thing for the County and it’s citizens in all matters.
Do you feel the state does enough to support rural counties like Miller?
Yes, I believe Arkansas provides adequate financial support to Miller County as does the federal government. The key is seeking out and securing that money. Fortunately, our County Judge is very good at getting grant money, and has done so for several County projects.
Attitudes on the quorum court have been combative at several meetings. Why is this? Do you feel these sorts of attitudes are conducive to good governance?
The main problem with the current Quorum Court is that there are a few members who’ve forgotten who gave them that job THE PEOPLE. It’s hard to conduct the people’s business effectively when a few individuals constantly try to ram their agenda through without considering the opinions of the other Justices or the public. As a Justice of the Peace, one should always be R.E.A.D.Y. That means Respectful, Enthusiastic, Accountable, Dependable, and Your voice in County government. It’s time for a change!
How will you support businesses and development in Miller County?
Without currently being a Justice of the Peace, I don’t yet know what authority the County government has to enter into agreements with businesses for tax breaks, real estate deals, etc. If elected, I will find out and use whatever tools we have to support already existing businesses and to help create others. I would also like to see closer cooperation between Miller County and the cities within the County on such matters.
What is your opinion of how Miller County has used and plans to use federal pandemic recovery and infrastructure funds?
It is my understanding from attending previous Quorum Court meetings, that approximately $3 million in such funding was delivered to Miller County. At one time, a large portion of this money was to be used for the County jail expansion. The first contract for this work was unilaterally terminated which set the project behind. A new contract is still on hold, with no bids yet requested. It is my hope that this federal money will once again fund the jail expansion. There always seems to be talk in Washington, though, about taking back unspent COVID funds, so the County definitely needs to get this money earmarked for projects instead of holding it in the bank just so it can be claimed as a budget surplus.