Dateline: May 10, 2007

Johnson resigns as JP, keeps city post

Longtime Justice of the Peace Jimmy Johnson retired effective last Friday but will continue as City of Clarendon Municipal Judge.

Johnson held the office of Justice of the Peace for Precincts 1 & 2 for fourteen years before stepping down last week citing health concerns and stress as the cause for the decision.

“There are several reasons,” he said.  “I’m 66, I’ve had some heart problems, and then there’s the stress factor.”

Johnson will continue his part time job as municipal judge from his new office at 116 S. Kearney.

“This is part time, and it gives me more free time with my family.”

As municipal judge Johnson handles Class C misdemeanors that occur within the city limits of Clarendon.

“I see traffic and public intoxication violations, bad checks, failure to attend school, and other Class C misdemeanors,” he said.

Johnson took the job of municipal judge in 1999 and since then has been able to collect a lot of money for local businesses who’ve received hot checks.

The County is currently soliciting applications to replace Johnson as JP.

“Applications will be accepted until May 23 at 5 p.m.,” Donley County Judge Jack Hall said.

Until someone is selected to fill the position, Ann Kennedy, Justice of the Peace for Precincts 3 & 4, is covering the duties of that office.

To qualify for the position you must have resided continuously in the state of Texas for 12 months and be a resident of Precinct 1 or 2 for the preceding six months.

Applications can be picked up in Judge Hall’s office.