1/7/25 Press Release

Saline County, January 7, 2025 – Newly sworn-in Saline County District 12 Justice of the Peace Stephanie Johnson raised eyebrows during her first Quorum Court committee meeting by casting a “NO” vote on the proposed Organizational Ordinance. The ordinance outlines the rules and procedures for all Quorum Court meetings. Justice Johnson expressed concerns about three key provisions in the ordinance: 1. Public Comment Limitations: The ordinance restricts public comments to agenda items only. Johnson opposed this measure, emphasizing the importance of giving residents broader opportunities to voice their concerns. Public comments have always been allowed on any issue of importance to citizens. To restrict their freedom of speech is not only a dramatic change from the prior rules, but it is contrary to the 1st Amendment and Republican Party platform. 2. Meeting Time Change: The new ordinance proposed a shift in meeting times, from 6:30pm to 6:00pm, which Johnson argued could create accessibility issues for working constituents. 3. Approval Process for Ordinances and Resolutions: Under the ordinance, all proposed ordinances and resolutions must first be sent to the county judge for review before proceeding to the necessary committee. Johnson questioned this practice as adding another layer of bureaucracy rather than just sending the ordinances or resolutions to the appropriate committee directly. With this provision, the Quorum Court has ceded its authority to debate issues to the county judge, who now effectively gains veto power over a JP’s proposal. “I believe in fostering an open and accessible government,” Johnson stated. “These provisions, particularly the limitations on public comment and the added layer of review, stand in the way of ensuring the people of Saline County have a direct and effective voice in our proceedings.” Despite her dissent, the Organizational Ordinance was approved by a 11-1 vote of the Quorum Court. Justice Johnson reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the voices of her constituents and ensuring transparency and accessibility remain priorities in county governance. “Freedom of speech is a hallmark of our republic. As elected officials, we should be willing to hear our constituents’ concerns. Too many forget that we work for the taxpayers, not the bureaucracy.”