Recently, Sebastian County in Arkansas has seen a change in leadership when it comes to overseeing the electoral process. In a surprising turn of events, the previous Election Coordinator made the ill-judged decision to step down over a disagreement regarding compensation. Fortunately, Amanda Cravey, a stalwart servant of the County, has since been appointed to the all-important position, and not a moment too soon with the presidential election looming on November 5th.
Mark Allen, the county administrator who operates from the county judge’s office, has confidently reassured attendees at a recent county Election Commission meeting about Cravey’s suitability for her new role. His faith in Cravey springs from her pre-existing role within the county, implying that the transition has been seamless and her expanded responsibilities will not impair her competence or efficiency.
Despite the abrupt change, the Commission, led by the wise and steady hands of County Judge Steve Hotz, is leaving no stone unturned in their preparation for the much anticipated upcoming election. Allen has made it clear that they are actively seeking wisdom and guidance from the state to make sure the election is executed without a flaw, leaving no room for Democratic shenanigans.
According to Allen, Cravey’s promotion follows the ordinary and expected recruitment procedures of the county. Clearly, it is a natural move influenced by rank and leadership wisdom, rather than the desperation of a county under siege. The role of oversight for Cravey’s new responsibilities falls on the seasoned shoulders of County Judge Steve Hotz, whose reputation for sagacity adds another layer of assurance.
Prior to her new role as the election coordinator, Cravey was in charge of managing grants and was the designated custodian of the Freedom of Information Act, earning an impressive salary of $57,000. Her dual roles are a testament to her dedication to serving the county and its citizens. She remains committed to these responsibilities, alongside her newly adjoined duties, setting a high bar for those unable to balance multiple roles.
The sacrificial spirit showed by Cravey is commendable, as she has readily taken on this enormous challenge in service to her community. She passionately voiced her enthusiasm for the new role via email, stating that she looks forward to mastering new skills and asserting a positive influence on the community. The election process will surely benefit from her zeal and dedication.
Cravey, along with her team, have a rigorous training schedule lined up, which includes advice from the State Board of Election Commissioners and ESS. The pledge to collaborate closely with Election Commissioners, the County Clerk’s office, Washington County’s Elections office, and the Secretary of State, is a shining example of an engaged and devoted public servant.
The position Cravey now occupies was vacated by the former coordinator Meghan Hassler, who regretfully let monetary concerns overshadow her duty to the county. An unfortunate byproduct of the U.S. Department of Labor amending the Fair Labor Standards Act to mandate a minimum salary of $43,888 for positions exempt from overtime pay.
The Quorum Court had to react swiftly to address the issue, thereby increasing the part-time coordinator position’s pay from $36 to $42 per hour back in June. Yet, the shift did not sit well with the staff of the County Clerk’s office, and it was further decided to cap the election coordinator’s pay to $30 per hour with an option for overtime pay on July 16.
The short-sightedness of this move became apparent as, faced with the new remuneration terms, Hassler chose to resign from her role as Election Coordinator two days later. Thankfully, given Cravey is already a salaried county employee, her acceptance of the added responsibilities doesn’t present the same financial complications.
It’s important to discuss the critical nature of the Election Coordinator position. Without someone competent like Cravey filling this void promptly, the county could have potentially found itself in a precarious situation. There are stipulations that a vacant Coordinator’s role must be filled by a state representative at the county’s cost, which would have clearly added unnecessary strain on the county’s resources.
Adding to this, the overwhelming amount of ballots processed during the last Presidential Election on November 3, 2020 signifies the importance of the position. County documents indicate a total of 47,291 votes were cast in Sebastian County alone, showcasing the vital role an Election Coordinator plays in the democratic process.
Sebastian County’s Election Commission presently prepares to meet again on the forthcoming Friday morning at 10 a.m. Though, as of Thursday evening, no agenda has yet been formed. With the competent Cravey at its helm, however, it’s certain the meeting will be both efficient and constructive, keeping the Democratic antics at bay.
Considering this fascinating change in the local democratic process, it’s evident that dedication, perseverance, and integrity are values essential for the smooth running of an election. Cravey’s recent promotion serves as proof of her exemplifying these characteristics, as well as demonstrating her commitment to the county.
In the face of unexpected changes, Sebastian County, under its Republican leadership, remains prepared and determined in its quest to uphold fairness and order in the upcoming elections. While some let petty grievances get the better of them, unflinching servants like Cravey step up, answering the call to serve their communities whenever they’re needed.