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Ouachita JP #10

Over their two-year term, a JP is responsible for:Setting real estate, personal property and sales tax rates in the county.Determining the final budget for county departments and offices - including salaries - and appropriating funds for county expenses.Preserving the peace and order in the county, though they do not have the authority to make any offense a felony. This often takes the form of passing county laws and in some counties making planning decisions.Contract or join with any other county or city, or the federal government for a public purpose.Creating, consolidating, separating, or abandoning any elected office in the county if first approved by voters.Filling vacancies in elected county offices.Providing for any service or performance of any function related to county affairs.Many Quorum Courts also have subcommittees that JPs serve on and discuss the more nitty gritty details before an issue appears before the whole group. These committees have included budget/finance, building, economic development, environmental, personnel, legislative affairs, public safety, Justices of the peace also have the authority to marry a couple.https://www.uaex.uada.edu/business-communities/ced-blog/posts/2022/may/what-is-a-justice-of-the-peace.aspx

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    Helen Aregood
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

Describe in your own words the duties of the office you seek.

Describe in your own words the experience and skills you have that qualifies you for this position.

Describe the first thing you plan to change/improve when you take office and how you will accomplish that goal.

JPs serve on the county’s Quorum Court, which is the legislative body of county government. They pass county ordinances and resolutions. Budget & Taxes Approve the county budget Set county tax rates (within limits set by state law) Allocate funding to county departments (sheriff, jail, roads, etc.) Oversight & Policy Establish county policies Create or modify county offices and departments Provide oversight of county operations Representation Each JP represents a district within the couny
I bring a strong commitment to public service, sound judgment, and practical experience that prepare me well to serve as a Justice of the Peace. Through my professional and community involvement, I have developed a solid understanding of how local government decisions directly affect residents, families, and businesses.

I have experience working with budgets, policies, and long-term planning, which has taught me the importance of fiscal responsibility and accountability. I am comfortable reviewing detailed information, asking thoughtful questions, and making decisions that balance community needs with available resources. These skills are essential when approving county budgets, setting priorities, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used ef
I will first see who our new County Judge will be. I will then speak with he or she about their vision for the County. I will then help to implement changes that will benefit all residents of Ouachita County.