Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Administration topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Coroner reports 22 October deaths; county official addresses federal audit records
Summary
The Miller County coroner reported 22 deaths in October (eight hospice) and three autopsies. A county official named Tracy Marie said a federal auditor took requested records and blamed delays on a CPA transition; the court noted appropriation and budget preparation steps.
The Miller County coroner told the quorum court that October was busier than the three previous months, reporting 22 deaths in the period and that eight of those were hospice cases. The coroner said staff or deputies made 14 visits and three cases resulted in autopsies.
During public comment, an individual identified as Tracy Marie addressed concerns circulating about a federal audit and whether records had been provided. Tracy Marie said the federal auditor "left with the records that day that he asked for" and that any delays were caused by the county's former CPA, whom she said left the firm and left work unfinished. She also said she had contacted a replacement CPA, "Ellie Barnett" in Hot Springs, to ensure the records and emails were received.
Why it matters: The coroner's caseload informs county public‑health surveillance and budget planning for investigative and autopsy services. The audit clarification addresses public concern about transparency and record handling; the speaker emphasized cooperation with auditors and that records were provided.
Follow-up: The transcript records the coroner's report and the public comment; no formal investigation or motion was recorded at this meeting regarding the audit or records beyond the spoken clarification.
Ending: The court moved on to budget and committee business after the coroner's update and the public clarification.
