Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. Issues Statement on Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson’s Vetoed Budget and Retaliatory Actions Jefferson County, Arkansas – January 14, 2024 — It is with grave disappointment and concern that I address the actions taken by Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson at yesterday’s meeting between members of the Jefferson County Quorum Court and his office. Due to illness and under physician’s orders, I was absent from the meeting; however, the details provided by numerous attendees reveal a deeply troubling reality. What was initially presented as a continuation of collaborative discussions regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 budget instead devolved into a unilateral display of power, characterized by Judge Robinson formation of illegal committees and the arbitrary imposition of budget cuts that threaten the salaries and positions of Jefferson County employees. This proposed budget disregards the recommendations submitted by constitutional officers, including myself, and blatantly ignores the fact that all proposals, as affirmed by the Jefferson County Treasurer, are under the legally mandated 90% of projected revenues. Robinson’s Reckless Budget Proposal: A Threat to County Operations and Employees The County Judge’s 2025 budget proposal includes drastic and unjustified pay cuts for critical public safety personnel, elimination of vital positions, and reductions in operational funding that jeopardize essential services. Among the proposed cuts:
These cuts are not only detrimental to Jefferson County employees but also hinder our ability to provide critical services to the residents of this county. (See further detailed explanation HERE) A Manufactured Crisis with Real Consequences It must be emphasized that Judge Robinson’s actions mirror the payroll crisis he manufactured last year, which caused payroll delays that directly affected hundreds of county employees. Once again, he is creating uncertainty and instability for those who serve our community. The real threat to employee pay rests solely with Robinson and his six political allies: Justices Danny Holcomb, Patricia Royal-Johnson, Conley Byrd, Jimmy Fisher, and Roy Agee, who failed to override his veto on a legal and fiscally sound budget. Retaliation and Abuse of Power Judge Robinson’s continued retaliatory behavior against critics, including the majority of the Quorum Court and constitutional officers, is politically motivated and destructive. Despite having served as Sheriff, his disregard for the well-being of county employees and the operational integrity of our essential services is unacceptable. This situation underscores the urgent need for state or federal intervention to affirm the separation of powers and prevent further abuses. It is clear that Judge Robinson’s personal vendettas are impeding the progress of county government and endangering our community’s well-being. A Call for Accountability To our residents: know that the Jefferson County Quorum Court, excluding Judge Robinson’s enablers, remains committed to fiscal responsibility and employee support. Our focus must remain on serving the people of this county-not on political gamesmanship. Next Steps In response to these ongoing issues, my office is considering hosting a press conference to address these concerns in greater detail. Additionally, we are exploring legal recourse to ensure that payroll for county employees is processed without disruption. It is imperative that county employees and their families are not subjected to further harm due to Judge Robinson’s vindictive actions. We urge all Jefferson County residents to join us in demanding accountability and transparency from those entrusted with public office. Sincerely, Lafayette Woods, Jr.
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