Franklin County Pays Off Building Loan Early

by Robbi Roberts

Exciting news was announced by Treasurer Shelly Wilson at the Franklin County Quorum Court meeting Thursday, June 11, in Charleston.

Wilson reported her office received a $302,000 check from the solar rebate, which was in turn given to Bank OZK as the final payment for the loan on the county’s new emergency medical services (EMS) building. The loan is being paid off early, saving the county significant money, Wilson said.

In other matters, Sheriff Johnny Crocker asked for raises for his certified deputies. After discussion, it was decided numbers would be analyzed and an ordinance for raises will be presented for a vote at the July meeting.

Property tax reappraisals for Franklin County will be effective for the 2026 tax year, payable in 2027. Notices will be mailed out to residents in July.

County Judge Rickey Bowman formed a committee to gather information to oversee a request from NextEra Energy for a tax abatement. Justice of the Peace Luke Verkamp will chair the committee, with other members consisting of Justices Lacey Clark, Gary O’Neal and Sherrie Sanders, and County Assessor Rose McKinnon.

An appropriation ordinance moving $10,000 in jail funds from part-time salaries to maintenance and service contracts was approved.

The Court approved an appropriation ordinance placing $900 in reimbursed funds back in the elections training and budget line item.

Seven justices of the peace were present at the meeting, with Brian Lachowski and Sanders absent.