ASHDOWN, Ark. - A group of Little River County, Ark., residents are suing county judge Larry Cowling concerning his authority over issuing tax breaks to a solar energy company without the quorum court's approval.

A circuit court judge today denied a preliminary injunction, which means the legal issue will now go to trial.

Earlier this year, a group of residents began protesting tax incentives for the company, Nextera Energy, to build a battery center and solar farm on about 2,000 acres off Highway 108. The company wants a 65% tax abatement from the county.

Resident Tracy Jones says the lawsuit challenges the judge's authority to sign the bond without a direct vote.

In addition to denying the preliminary injunction, the circuit court judge also voted not to have a public election on the

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