Penny Kesterson JP appointment

Fulfilling unexpired term in District 9 

Penny Kesterson has been appointed by Governor Asa Hutchinson as Justice of the Peace for District 9. She is fulfilling the unexpired term of her husband Basil Kesterson, who passed in June 2021. He served 19 years, since 2002, as Justice of the Peace in Polk County. 

Sworn in on September 28, 2021, Penny has been welcomed by the quorum court with open arms. Several of the members of the quorum court approached the governor on her behalf. 

“I would like to thank each and every one of you who encouraged me to do this. I’d like to thank each and every one of you who went to the governor for me,” Penny said. “It’s an honor to sit in gentleman number threes’ chair.” 

Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison also commented on the appointment. “We were all saddened by the loss of Justice of the Peace Basil Kesterson. He was an accomplished veteran of the Polk County Quorum Court and was well liked by all.” 

“It makes sense that Governor Hutchinson would appoint Basil’s closest confidante, Penny, to represent JP District 9 for the remainder of the term. I know finishing Basil’s final term is very important to her and I have confidence that she will serve in the best interest of her district and Polk County.”

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