Hempstead County Quorum Court Highlights: Ordinance Updates, Jail Repairs, and Community Engagement

Hope, Arkansas — August 28th The Hempstead County Quorum Court convened Thursday evening (8/28) for its regular monthly meeting, addressing a range of issues from public safety to community development. The session began with an Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the minutes from the July 24 meeting.

A key item on the agenda was the review and approval of Ordinance 2025-10, originally tabled in July. The ordinance, aimed at regulating “vicious” and “nuisance” dogs in rural areas of the county, underwent suggested revisions. Justice of the Peace David Clayton explained that penalties for mental distress caused by aggressive dogs were removed, while those for physical harm remained. New clauses were added to address property destruction and dog dumping, with escalating fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 for repeat offenses.

Bonnie Raff of the John Cain Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution addressed the court in anticipation of Constitution Week, which will be observed from September 17–23. She emphasized the importance of civic awareness and constitutional literacy. Judge Jerry Crane signed a proclamation recognizing the week in Hempstead County.

Administrative Assistant Alice Ross announced that Hempstead County had earned the Gold Star certification for workforce safety for the fourth consecutive year. The award, presented by the Association of Arkansas Counties, recognizes outstanding safety practices across all county departments, including the sheriff’s office. Ross credited County Shop Supervisor Jeff Yates for his proactive efforts in attending safety training sessions.

Sheriff James Singleton reported on recent plumbing repairs at the county jail, which is now 30 years old. He mentioned the sally port at the jail, the age of the parts needed to repair it, and that Wastewater had been leaking beneath the facility due to deteriorating piping in the shower pods. Repairs were completed using inmate labor and cost approximately $1,700. However, Singleton warned that additional repairs may be needed in other pods, signaling ongoing maintenance challenges.

Anna Powell, President of the Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation, extended an invitation to local officials for the EDC’s annual meeting on Friday, September 12, at Hempstead Hall. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.