Quorum Court Faces Concerns Over Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Regulations

The Pulaski County Quorum Court convened on August 26, 2025, to address pressing concerns regarding the recent changes in extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) laws and their implications for county residents. The meeting began with a call for public comments, during which Brenda Henson raised concerns about the lack of guidelines to protect property owners following the dissolution of ETJs. She emphasized that residents previously felt secure under city regulations, which now seem absent, leaving them vulnerable to potential negative developments in their neighborhoods.

In response, a quorum court member explained that a special meeting had been held two weeks prior to discuss the ETJ changes. The planning department is currently conducting a land use study to gather input from residents in unincorporated areas about their preferences for development and regulations. However, it was noted that this process would take time, and the court would need to consider extending the temporary regulations in place for the next five and a half months.

Henson urged the court to communicate more effectively with residents, particularly those who may not have access to online resources. She suggested that a simple announcement or update could reassure the community that the court is actively working on these issues. The court member acknowledged the importance of communication and encouraged residents to attend planning board meetings, which occur monthly.

Wendell Griffin also addressed the court, criticizing the planning department for not initiating efforts to address the ETJ changes sooner. He highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that the delay has left residents in unincorporated areas exposed to potential issues that could have been mitigated with timely action.

The discussions underscored the need for ongoing engagement between the quorum court and county residents as they navigate the complexities of land use and property rights in the wake of legislative changes. The court's commitment to addressing these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of Pulaski County's unincorporated areas.