Franklin County JPs Approve Jailer Position

by Vernon McDaniel

Franklin County justices of the peace passed an ordinance during their monthly meeting Thursday, April 10, adding a jailer position at the county detention center.

Members of the Court also agreed to add a second position if needed at a later date.

Sheriff Johnny Crocker said the state recommended he hire two additional detention officers, but he could at least temporarily get by with one.

Judge’s Report

In his report, County Judge Rickey Bowman mentioned the forthcoming May 3 auction of the old EMS building at Second and Spring streets in Ozark.

Bowman also said some air conditioners at the jail will soon be repaired.

Public Input

During the public input portion of the meeting, Bowman supported a statement by citizen Justin Flanagan regarding the possibility of the proposed 3,000-bed state prison at Vesta being on an Indian burial ground. Both were opposed to the prison.

Other input was provided by County Extension Agent Casey Ford in regard to a service project.

Other Matters

Ten ordinances passed by the Court dealt with such measures as carryover corrections for 2025, line-item adjustments, salary adjustment and other miscellaneous items.

In further business, justices discussed voluntary taxes and heard a recommendation from Justice of the Peace Brian Lachowsky that the governor soon appoint a replacement for former Justice Rex Heffington, who left the Court last year.

The full story appears in the April 16 edition of The Graphic, found online and in businesses throughout Johnson and Franklin counties.