To the editor:
In response to Judge Ben Cross’ decision not to rescind his letter of support for Cherokee Nation Businesses as requested by the Quorum Court resolution I introduced this past Thursday and passed by the Quorum Court. I am very disappointed for the citizens of Pope County as they continue to be subjected to the poor decisions of those elected to serve them and represent their voice in this matter.
It has been repeatedly made clear by a majority of the voters of our County they do not want a casino. Had it not been for the poor decisions of those elected to represent the voters of Pope County by issuing letters of support for casinos we would not continue to deal with the possibility of having a casino forced upon our citizens.
I believe Amendment 100 is clear that before a casino license can be issued there must either be “… a letter of support from the county judge or a resolution from the county quorum court…”. Had the voters in Pope County been better represented by those in a position of power and the letters not been written, there would be no valid casino applicant for the Arkansas Racing Commission to consider.
The county judge has stated that he has tried to rescind Jim Ed Gibson’s letter and was denied that request. There is a difference between rescinding another judge’s letter and rescinding your own letter to the Racing Commission. The judge should do the right thing for the citizens that he represents and rescind his letter to the Arkansas Racing Commission.
I appreciate your continued support and welcome your comments on this matter and other issues that are facing our county. I will continue to work for you and strive to make the best decisions for you and our county.
Allan George
Pope County Justice of the Peace
District 10