Nicky Boyette – Virginia Pozza told Justices of the Peace at Monday’s Quorum Court meeting she asked for county help after a flood a few years ago, and was told it had been a 100-years’ flood and she got no help. She said there have been three similar floods since that one, and she is still looking for aid. Farmers have lost pastures and barns, vineyards have been wiped out, and the county has lost roads. She asked the county again to get involved with the Flood Insurance Program. She said her family incurred $150,000 in damages, and she felt she was not being heard.
Anna Strickers spoke again to the court about the “trashy, unsightly property” on County Road 301 also known as Greenwood Hollow Road. She cited a line of garbage bags almost 20 ft. long, trailers without windows sometimes inhabited, and burn piles and rubbish heaps near the elementary school. She said she has not gotten any relief from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality or the Health Department, and asked what to do next.
JP Lamont Richie told Strickers something is being done, but there is a process. He has spoken about her plight with Deputy Prosecutor Devon Goodman, who found state laws regarding possible citations, but there must be local ordinances in place first. Richie said he and Goodman are working on it.
Linda Maiella spoke for the Purple Flower organization, a nonprofit group providing help for victims of domestic abuse. The organization was created in the wake of the 2014 murder of Laura Acevez. Their hotline number is (844) 247-3223. She said they are available for anyone in danger. Even transportation can be provided, as well as help with orders of protection, safety planning and advice on legal support. Thirty-four women got help during their first year, and Maiella said the county should stand with them to say No More. Those interested in donating can visit their website, thepurpleflower.org, to find out how.