Farmington Finance Director Retires

FARMINGTON — City finance director and court clerk Jimmy Story has retired after a 22-year career with the city of Farmington.

Story submitted his letter announcing his retirement on Thursday, Dec. 1. His last day was Friday, Dec. 2.

Mayor Ernie Penn said the city probably would make some changes in filling the position. The city is advertising for applications for a bookkeeper/accounting clerk position and is considering a part-time position to fill the duties of court clerk.

“Jimmy was a very knowledgeable, efficient and honest employee,” Penn said Thursday. “Those are all excellent character traits. We always relied on his expertise and knowledge of managing the budget and overseeing the income stream.”

Story started with the city of Farmington as the city court clerk. His financial responsibilities were added later.

In filling the vacancy, the city is looking for someone to oversee the day-to-day accounting and purchasing for the city. Penn said he prefers someone with a degree in accounting or finance but that is not required. Some of Story’s duties will be delegated to other city staff.

For now, Prairie Grove’s district court staff have agreed to help Farmington during the interim.

“Having another community help us is awesome and Judge (Graham) Nations has been very helpful,” Penn said.

The city does not have a deadline for submitting an application. Penn said the salary would depend on a candidate’s experience.

FILE PHOTO City Finance Director Jimmy Story (right) receives a plaque in appreciation for his 20 years of service. Farmington Mayor Ernie Penn presented Story with the plaque.