Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Quorum court could have vacancy Jan. 1

The Nevada County Quorum Court could be facing a vacancy. E.Z. Sonny Buster was elected during the May primary to take over the Nevada County Justice of the Peace seat currently held by Arval Mason. But Buster passed away before the November election and Mason said he is not ready to commit to holding the seat for another term.

Nevada County Judge James Roy Brown told members of the court during the November meeting of the NC Quorum Court that he had been asked what should happen with regard to that seat.

Brown said that hed done some research and discovered that an elected official is allowed to hold the seat to which he was elected until someone who is qualified is elected to take his place. In this case, Mason currently holds the seat but was beat in the May primary election by Buster. Brown said that he believes Mason is eligible to continue serving as a JP for his district for the coming term. Brown said that Mason would now be called on to resign his seat if he chooses not to represent the district for another term.

Following the meeting, Mason said hes not yet ready to commit to another term.

JP Willie Wilson addressed Mason during the meeting.

I think over the years you have done an excellent job, Wilson said. Youve been very conscientious and youve always done your homework. You have my support.

Mason thanked Wilson, but declined to make any additional comment.

Mason is on the countys budget committee which is slated to begin work on the coming years budget on Nov. 20.

In other business, Prescott-Nevada County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mary Godwin told JPs that Trade Days will continue through the winter months and announced that Rosston has been granted funding for a walking trail.

The quorum court also approved appropriation of $1,000 for stationary for Nevada County Circuit Clerk-elect Rita Reyenga.

JPs approved allocation of money from the Arkansas Game and Fish for Prescott and Nevada schools. The money is the result of fines collected in the county and is distributed to the schools through the county on a regular basis. This disbursement provides $8,940 to Prescott and $3,835 to Nevada. Distribution is based on number of students and the money must be spent for approved activities, such as hunter and boater education, outdoor habitats and other class activities.