Public Meetings - Jonesboro, Arkansas

The Jonesboro Board of Zoning Adjustment met on September 15, 2026, beginning at 7:30 PM. The board considered several variance requests for multi-family residential and commercial developments. The meeting included discussion of design standards, traffic flow, parking requirements, and grading challenges. The board voted to approve or table each item. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the August 11 meeting were approved by motion and second. Discussion Items - Walter Jackson – Duplex at 323 North Bridge: Mr. Jackson requested variances to allow side-facing doors and front parking for a new duplex. He explained that the 50-foot-wide lot and existing infrastructure make rear parking infeasible. He cited similar variances granted for other properties he built in the area (e.g., 509 Miller in 2020). Board members discussed concerns about front parking and door orientation but recognized the practical constraints of the lot and the applicant's positive track record. The city planning representative noted the code encourages rear parking but acknowledged the difficulty on this site. - Chick-fil-A – Variance Requests (GBC Design): The applicant sought three variances for a new Chick-fil-A on a 1.8-acre site: (1) an exit not meeting cross-access requirements, (2) a curb cut closer than 85 feet from an intersection, and (3) three access points (two entrances, one exit) instead of the allowed maximum. The project engineer explained the P-15 prototype with an isolated drive-thru and emphasized the site's 11-foot grade change. A letter from George Dim of Tommy's Car Wash objected to the side connection due to traffic conflict concerns. Board members expressed reluctance about granting multiple variances but were satisfied with the revised plan turning one access into an entrance-only. The representative recused himself. - McAllister Engineering – Setback Variance for Duplex (Mapry Properties): A variance was requested to reduce the east side setback from 7.5 feet to 6 feet for an existing duplex built 1.18 feet over the setback. The applicant stated the building is being renovated. The board moved to grant the variance to avoid requiring demolition. - Doug (representing grocery store) – Driveway Location Variance: The applicant requested a variance from shared access requirements on Southern Ridge Boulevard, citing that 18-wheelers serving the grocery store would create a hardship for the adjoining property to the west if required to share a driveway. Board discussion raised concerns about setting a precedent and the impact on future development of the western lot. The city planner noted that the code requires shared entrances to reduce curb cuts on a collector street. The applicant argued that 18-wheelers cannot safely use the side exit and that the adjoining lot has sufficient frontage (approximately 280 linear feet) for its own driveway. The board granted the variance. - Fencing (Moss Fencing): This item was tabled to the next meeting as the applicant did not appear. Key Outcomes - Approved: Variance for Walter Jackson's duplex at 323 North Bridge (side-facing doors, front parking) – vote: 3 in favor. - Approved: Three variances for Chick-fil-A (cross-access, curb cut distance, number of access points) – vote: 3 in favor, 1 recused. - Approved: Setback variance for McAllister Engineering/Mapry Properties duplex – vote: 3 in favor. - Approved: Driveway location variance for grocery store (waived shared access on Southern Ridge) – vote: 3 in favor. - Tabled: Moss Fencing item to next meeting. - The board adjourned.

On Tuesday, September 15, 2026, the Jonesboro City Council convened at 5:30 PM in the Municipal Center. Mayor Harold Copenhaver called the meeting to order. Roll call showed 10 members present and 2 absent. The meeting began with special presentations, then moved through the consent agenda, resolutions removed from consent, new business, unfinished business, mayor's reports, council reports, and public comments. Special Presentations - The city received the 2026 Government Recycler of the Year Award, recognized for its team approach to recycling involving the Sanitation Department, Code Enforcement, and the Keep Jonesboro Beautiful Committee. It was noted that the city was the only one recognized among its peers in the state. - Glass recycling efforts have diverted approximately 13,000 pounds of glass from the waste stream, with partnerships including Embassy Suites. - Through the city's partnership with EcoWorks and Jonesboro Human Development Center, approximately 8,000 pounds of cardboard were diverted from the landfill in the past month, while also creating jobs for people with intellectual disabilities. - Several community volunteers were recognized for their dedication to youth sports and parks programs, presented by the Mayor for their service and leadership. - Council member Janice Porter attended a meeting with the University of Arkansas landscape architecture students and expressed excitement about the new partnership. Consent Agenda - MIN-26:085: Minutes from the September 1, 2026 City Council meeting were approved by voice vote. - RES-26:105: A resolution to execute a traffic control device agreement to maintain control devices was passed. - RES-26:106 through RES-26:118 (multiple resolutions): Municipal liens were placed on various properties for code enforcement violation amounts ranging from $275 to $615. All passed by voice vote. - RES-26:120: A resolution to enter into an agreement with Farmers & Merchants Bank for banking depository services was passed. - RES-26:119: Removed from consent agenda at the request of Code Enforcement. Council member Brian Emison moved to postpone indefinitely; motion passed 10-0 (2 absent). Resolutions Removed from Consent Agenda - RES-26:072: Resolution to condemn property at 2210 Willow Rd. Passed 10-2 (Council members Charles Coleman and Ann Williams voted nay). - RES-26:123: Resolution certifying local government endorsement for SANY Nutrition Group LLC to participate in the Tax Back Program. Passed 10-2 (Coleman and Williams nays). - RES-26:124: Resolution requested by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to amend the lease agreement for the Forrest L. Wood Crowley's Ridge Nature Center. Passed 11-1 (Ann Williams nay). Council discussion clarified that the Nature Center would remain open, contrary to earlier concerns. The Mayor noted Representative Tosh contacted the Game and Fish director to ensure the center stayed open, emphasizing its importance to kids and the community. New Business (Ordinances on First Reading) - ORD-26:036: Ordinance to amend Section 1-7 of the Code of Ordinances to change general penalty to match state law. Held at one reading. - ORD-26:037: Ordinance for approval of a private club permit for 141 Prime Restaurant. Held at one reading. Public Comments & Testimony - James Elwin Hines (508 Ridge Crest, Jonesboro) objected to the location of the private club permit for 141 Prime Restaurant, stating it was "way too close to an elementary school" and that parents with children at that school would object. - Marty Lilly (2300 Pleasant Grove Road, attorney for Key Construction and Shannon Elaine Key) stated that all necessary information had been provided in council packets and offered to answer any questions. - A resident (73-year-old woman) complained about a city ditch that had not been mowed, noting she cannot afford to pay $7,500 to have it mowed and expressed concerns about safety and liability. She stated the ditch is a nuisance and that the city has not addressed it since 2007. - Another speaker discussed concerns about the Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA) process, questioning the need for BZA, consistency in variances (citing differences in how Southern Hills and a Caraway/Parker Road development were treated), and the appeal process for denials going directly to court versus city council for MAPC denials. They urged updating ordinances to be fairer and more transparent. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance Change for 1411 Southern Ridge Blvd. (ORD-26:030): An ordinance to amend zoning boundaries from PD-M Multi-Family Use to PD-M Commercial Use for property at 1411 Southern Ridge Boulevard, as requested by Jeremy Bevill on behalf of Southern Hills Apartments Development, LLC. The ordinance was on third reading and passed 10-2 (Coleman and Williams nays). - Pedestrian Safety: Council members discussed the recent public safety committee meeting focusing on pedestrian safety, highlighting its importance for those with limited transportation options. - Future Update: Council member LJ Bryant requested a future update on the issue of "loadering" and the Attorney General's recent actions using officers to cite individuals, expressing interest in how that affects the city. - Delta Peanut Factory: Council member John Street asked for an update on the Delta Peanut Factory's ability to handle this year's crop. The Mayor indicated conversations were ongoing among the ownership, and the Chamber was working with them, noting the situation affects many farmers. - MPO Meeting: Council member John Street reported that the MPO meeting that day focused on pedestrian safety and ongoing construction progress. Mayor's Reports - Paint the Town Red (September 11): A partnership with Arkansas State University, the Chamber, and Downtown Jonesboro Alliance that included a block party, bringing the community together ahead of A-State football. - Arkansas Recycling Award: Recognized for the team approach to recycling, awarded on September 1 in Hot Springs. - Turtle Creek Wetlands Project: A reimagining project in partnership with the University of Arkansas Department of Landscape Architecture, Keep Jonesboro Beautiful, and the Engineering Department to transform stormwater drainage property into usable green space, including an outdoor classroom. - 25th Anniversary of September 11th: The city participated in Patriot Day services; a proclamation was issued declaring September 11 a National Day of Remembrance in Jonesboro. Community partners provided meals for first responders. - Jonesboro vs. Valley View Football Game: The renewed cross-town matchup on September 11 drew over 6,000 attendees; Valley View won 30-21. The Mayor commended the school spirit and community participation. - Innovation Facility: A two-hour meeting was held with the owners of a new 200,000 sq ft facility (Innovation), with ownership from Japan praising the city's ability to achieve things not seen elsewhere in the U.S. - Upcoming Events: Jack Deacon Swim Meet, Mothers of Angels Butterfly Release, Jonesboro Fun Day, Sunset Sessions, United Way Day of Caring, Northeast Arkansas District Fair, Recovery in the Streets, and Downtown Jonesboro Barbecue Festival. City Council Reports - No reports from members other than those noted in presentations and discussion items. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved (10-0). - RES-26:119 (municipal lien for 1506 Pratt Circle) postponed indefinitely (10-0). - RES-26:072 (condemnation of 2210 Willow Rd.) passed (10-2). - RES-26:123 (SANY Nutrition Group endorsement for Tax Back Program) passed (10-2). - RES-26:124 (AGFC lease amendment for Crowley's Ridge Nature Center) passed (11-1). - ORD-26:036 and ORD-26:037 held at one reading. - ORD-26:031, ORD-26:032, ORD-26:033 held at second reading, moving to third reading. - ORD-26:030 (zoning change for 1411 Southern Ridge Blvd.) passed (10-2). - Meeting adjourned by motion.

The Public Services Council Committee met on September 15, 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Municipal Center. The committee approved previous meeting minutes, introduced an ordinance to restrict camping in city parks and parking lots, authorized a land-use agreement with the Northeast Arkansas Children's Museum, received updates from GOJO Transit and Parks & Recreation, and heard public comments. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from June 16, 2026 (MIN-26:056) and July 6, 2026 (MIN-26:061) unanimously. Public Comments - A member of the public commented on parental behavior at youth sports events, stating that her son was hit by a car and that parents should teach their children manners. She emphasized that the issue lies with adults, not children. Discussion Items 1. Ordinance ORD-26:038 – Camping Restriction in City Parks and Parking Lots - The committee introduced an ordinance to add Section 50-27 to the Code of Ordinances, prohibiting camping outside designated camping areas in city parks and city parking lots. Camping is defined as erecting a tent or shelter of natural or synthetic material or preparing a sleeping bag for overnight occupancy. Penalties: a fine of no less than $100 for the first violation. Special events may receive city permission. - Council members discussed whether the ordinance covers RVs. The city attorney explained that "shelter" likely includes RVs, but the committee acknowledged that more specific language may be needed in the future. It was confirmed that groups like the Boy Scouts could camp outside designated sites with a special event permit. - A question was raised about loitering at Union Park; the city attorney responded that the ordinance is specific to parks and parking lots and does not address sidewalks. - The committee voted to forward the ordinance to the full City Council (motion, second, vote carried unanimously). 2. Resolution RES-26:125 – Land-Use Agreement with Northeast Arkansas Children's Museum - The committee considered a resolution authorizing a land-use agreement with the Northeast Arkansas Children's Museum for property at 215 W. Monroe Avenue. Key covenants: (1) demolition or alteration of existing buildings is prohibited until long-term capital financing is fully secured and verified; (2) if financing is not secured by January 1, 2030, or if the project fails to proceed or ceases operation, all land, buildings, and improvements revert to the city without encumbrance. - Council members questioned the "financing confirmation threshold" clause (3B), which states that either the city council or an administrative representative must confirm financing before demolition. A suggestion was made to change "or" to "and" to require both approvals. The city attorney noted the clause is in the agreement, not the resolution, and the museum is amenable to the edit. - The committee voted to forward the resolution to the full City Council (motion, second, vote carried unanimously). 3. GOJO Transit Update (COM-26:048) - GOJO Director Lee Wells reported: approximately 200 trips per day in the prior week; 15% of trips used the new UMO payment system. The Red Wolves Express shuttle for football season has been integrated into the regular routing and app. A full campus service for Arkansas State University students was added. Public outreach and social media engagement have increased. A recent public comment period led to route adjustments. Council members requested a written report with performance numbers for future meetings. 4. Parks & Recreation Update (COM-26:049) - Parks Director Jim Stearns provided statistics: - Pool attendance: 16,263 visitors this summer. - Fall youth sports registrations: flag football (336 participants, 28 co-ed teams), soccer (1,449 participants, 129 teams), cheer (51), tackle football (100 fifth/sixth graders), Miracle League (90), adult softball (25 teams/300 participants), youth softball (31 teams/405 participants), volleyball (323 registered to date, starts in October). - Shooting sports: pistol/rifle range saw 3,840 visitors; trap/skeet shot over 8,000 rounds; 223 year/lifetime memberships sold through August 30. - Craighead Forest Park traffic: 194,810 cars counted through August 30. - Stearns clarified that a social media post about a "parking pass" at Joe McCampbell Park was actually a season pass for youth sports. Traffic patterns on Saturdays will be changed: enter via Harry Drive, exit via Dan Avenue. - A fee increase proposal was discussed (e.g., Earl Bell Community Center rental from $700 to $1,000). Stearns explained that Earl Bell has more amenities, and fees were brought in line with other centers. A council member expressed concern about the magnitude of some increases and suggested incremental adjustments. - Stearns reported an incident at a baseball tournament where two teams' parents were involved in a fight. The tournament organizer, Grand Slam Sports, has banned both teams from future events and is investigating further. A council member shared that his daughter was assaulted and requested updates on maintaining decorum. Stearns said a ranger assisted with the 911 call and that the banned teams are being addressed. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar (minutes from June 16 and July 6, 2026) was approved unanimously. - Ordinance ORD-26:038 was forwarded to the full City Council (unanimous). - Resolution RES-26:125 was forwarded to the full City Council (unanimous). - GOJO and Parks & Recreation directors will provide written reports for future meetings. - The committee noted the need for improved security at youth sports events; the Parks director will follow up with the tournament organizer and share the incident report.

The Jonesboro City Council Committee met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM to discuss pedestrian safety initiatives, review accident data, advance a traffic sign ordinance, and consider funding for downtown pedestrian all‑stop signals. Chief Elliott presented four years of pedestrian accident data, noting 94 incidents with 11 fatalities and identifying high‑risk corridors. Connectivity Committee Chairman Andy Shatley reported on ongoing active transportation projects. Engineer Craig Light detailed a $300,000 all‑stop project for three downtown intersections and proposed a $125,000 comprehensive safety action plan update. The committee unanimously approved minutes from August 19, 2026, moved Ordinance 26039 (traffic signs) to full council, and passed a motion to allocate $300,000 for the pedestrian all‑stop project. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting on August 19, 2026, without changes. - Ordinance 26039 – Traffic Signs: Moved to full council. The ordinance authorizes installing stop signs at Wellington Court at Kathleen Road, Rochester Drive at Kathleen Road, Rochester Drive at Cochlais Drive, and Dayton Avenue at Fair Park Boulevard, and setting 25 mph speed limits on Rochester Drive, Wellington Court, and Dayton Avenue. Public Comments & Testimony - During the pedestrian safety discussion, an audience member stated, "I want public safety for the pedestrians" and expressed a desire to become involved with the committee. No other public testimony was offered during the formal public comment period. Discussion Items - Pedestrian Safety Data and Enforcement: Chief Elliott reported 94 pedestrian‑involved accidents over the past four years, with 11 fatalities. He identified Johnson Avenue, Main Street, and areas near Arkansas State University as primary concern zones. He noted that a HAWK signal was added at Johnson and Melrose and further signalization is planned along Johnson and near Caraway. Of 79 accidents reviewed for citations, 33 involved a pedestrian as a contributing factor, 16 were hit‑and‑run, and 6 were referred to the Criminal Investigation Division. One arrest for DWI was made; two felony charges are pending. The Chief attributed low proactive enforcement to a staffing shortage: 13 officer vacancies and approximately 35 officers in a non‑functioning capacity (training, leave, etc.). The department is recruiting and aims to be fully staffed by December, though new officers require eight months of field training. The department uses STEP grants for overtime enforcement. - Education and Municipal Ordinances: Council members and the city attorney discussed the need for better pedestrian education, especially through school curricula. The city attorney noted that state laws already cover failure‑to‑yield and jaywalking, making a new local ordinance largely redundant, but suggested the committee might consider no‑right‑on‑red ordinances at specific high‑pedestrian intersections to enhance safety. - Connectivity Committee Update: Andy Shatley described the committee’s work creating safe routes for walking, biking, and other active transportation. He highlighted completed connectivity projects and stated that an updated executive summary of priority corridors will be presented to the council soon. - Downtown All‑Stop Project: Craig Light presented plans for interconnected all‑stop pedestrian signals on Washington Avenue at Union, Main, and Church Streets. When a pedestrian pushes the button, all vehicular traffic at the three intersections stops. The estimated cost is $300,000 based on 30% designs, including audible push buttons, communications equipment, and concrete improvements. Light stated that equipment lead time is approximately 16 weeks. - Comprehensive Safety Action Plan: Light proposed updating the existing 2022 roadway safety action plan at an estimated cost of $125,000. The update would identify high‑risk locations through data analysis and public engagement, allowing for proactive investments. He has drafted a resolution for this plan. - Intersection Design and Roadway Concerns: Council members noted pedestrian safety issues at intersections like Southwest Drive and Highland near the high school, and emphasized the need for intentional design, including potential road closures and hiring a dedicated landscape architect. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimously approved as presented. - Ordinance 26039 (Traffic Signs): Motion to move to full council passed without opposition. - Resolution 26130 (Pedestrian All‑Stop Funding): The committee voted unanimously to move the resolution to full council. The resolution amends the 2026 capital improvement budget to allocate $300,000 for the downtown all‑stop project. - Safety Action Plan Update Discussion: No formal vote was taken, but committee members expressed support. Engineer Light intends to present the resolution for the $125,000 plan at a future meeting. - Police Staffing Update: Chief Elliott noted efforts to fill vacancies, with a goal of full staffing by December 2026, which could improve enforcement capabilities. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after public comments.

The Finance & Administration Council Committee met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 4:00 PM at the Municipal Center. Six members were present (Joe Hafner, John Street, Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams, Charles Coleman, Brian Emison), with one absent (David McClain). The committee considered an ordinance to amend code penalties, 14 municipal lien resolutions, a banking depository agreement, a tax back program endorsement, and a lease amendment with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. All items were recommended to the full City Council by unanimous votes (5-0, with one absent). Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the Finance Committee meeting on August 25, 2026 were approved unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items ORD-26:036 – Amendment to Code Penalties - Proposal: Amend Section 1-7 of the Code of Ordinances to increase the general penalty for code violations not otherwise specified to match state law. New fines: up to $1,000 for first offense, $2,000 for second, $4,000 for subsequent offenses, and up to $500 per day for continuing violations. - Discussion: Councilmember Anthony Coleman asked for clarification. City Attorney Carol Duncan explained that the current catch-all fine of $500 had not been updated in at least 20 years and that the change only affects fines where the council has not set a specific penalty; it does not alter any existing fines. The committee voted unanimously to recommend to full council. RES-26:106 through RES-26:119 – Municipal Liens (14 Resolutions) - Proposal: Place municipal liens on 14 properties for unpaid code enforcement costs, ranging from $275 to $615. - Discussion: Each resolution was introduced and approved individually. Councilmember Brian Emison thanked Code Enforcement for their work, stating that each lien addresses blight and makes Jonesboro "a lot better place, cleaner, and more beautiful to look at." All passed unanimously. RES-26:120 – Banking Depository Services Agreement - Proposal: Enter into a three-year agreement with Farmers & Merchants Bank to provide banking depository services for the city, following a competitive RFP process (Bid 2026-19). The contract runs through September 15, 2029. - Discussion: The depository board reviewed proposals from five banks, interviewed Farmers & Merchants Bank, and recommended acceptance. The committee voted unanimously to recommend to full council. RES-26:123 – Tax Back Program Endorsement for Sany Nutrition Group LLC - Proposal: Certify local government endorsement for Sany Nutrition Group LLC to participate in the state's Tax Back program, which refunds local sales and use taxes on eligible construction materials and equipment for the renovation of the former Butterball facility. - Discussion: Councilmember Anthony Coleman asked for an explanation. Steven Lamm of Jonesboro Unlimited described the program: the state turns back 5.5% of its 6.5% sales tax if the local government also refunds its portion (typically 1%). The company, located at 9401 East Highland Drive, is renovating the facility. The committee voted unanimously to recommend. RES-26:124 – Lease Amendment with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission - Proposal: Amend the lease for the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center to change the building's use from a public nature center to a regional/field office, reflecting current conditions after a grease fire rendered the building no longer open to the public. - Discussion: Steven Roach of AGFC explained the modification only affects the building; the land remains city property and open to the public. Councilmember Coleman clarified that the public can still access the grounds. The committee voted unanimously to recommend. Key Outcomes - All 16 agenda items (one ordinance, 14 lien resolutions, two additional resolutions) were recommended to the full City Council by votes of 5-0, with David McClain absent. - No public comments were made. - The meeting was adjourned.

The Jonesboro City Council met on September 1, 2026, with a council member presiding in the mayor's absence. The meeting covered the consent agenda, new ordinances for a citywide sales tax and special election, zoning changes, private club permits, and extensive discussion on pedestrian safety. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was adopted, including Resolution 26103 requesting free utility services from City Water and Light for city-owned property. Public Comments & Testimony - James Owen Hines spoke on the special election ordinance (26035), confirming it would coincide with the November general election. - Patty Latt questioned the city's reserve funds, stating the budget shows nearly $10 million in surplus, and questioned the need for a new tax without addressing immediate needs. - Debbie Haas described her daughter Katie being hit by a vehicle in a downtown crosswalk while having the walk signal. She called for public service announcements, lower speed limits, speed bumps, higher fines, and increased police presence in the downtown pedestrian area. - Matt Garrett (Safety First Jonesboro) thanked the council for advancing the 5/8-cent public safety sales tax ballot initiative, noting over 4,200 signatures from registered voters. - Haley Knight Brock (friend of Katie) criticized the police report for concluding "nothing further" regarding the driver who struck her. She called for a clear and consistent process for investigating pedestrian collisions and driver accountability. - Jeb Spencer questioned why the driver who struck the pedestrian was not more thoroughly evaluated at the scene. - James Elwin Hines (later in the meeting) raised concerns about traffic confusion on Main Street, noting drivers parking across crosswalks and uncertainty about when to proceed through intersections. Discussion Items - Citywide Sales Tax & Special Election (Ordinances 26034 & 26035): The council suspended rules and approved an ordinance levying a citywide 5/8 of 1% (0.625%) sales and use tax and a corresponding ordinance calling a special election for the measure. The election is planned to coincide with the November general election. - Ordinances on First Reading: - Ordinance 26031 (Sponsoring Legislation): Councilmember Hafner questioned whether a 5-day timeline for the mayor's office to process legislation was sufficient. The council noted the timeline would be reviewed with the administration before final passage. - Ordinance 26032 (Opening Invocation Procedure): Read without comment. - Ordinance 26033 (Correcting Outdated Language): Read without comment. - Zoning Change (Second Reading): An ordinance to change zoning boundaries from PDM multifamily to PDM commercial at 1411 Southern Ridge Boulevard was presented without comment. - Private Club Permits (Third Reading): - Ordinance 26026 (Blazing Buffalo Sports Grill): Resident James Hines spoke in opposition, arguing the permit would negatively impact the nearby neighborhood. The ordinance still passed. - Ordinance 26027 (My Place Hotel): The applicant clarified the permit was a private club application, not a hotel/motel permit. The council passed the ordinance. - Pedestrian Safety & Infrastructure (Mayor's Report): - City Administrator Brian reported on the Johnson Avenue HAWK signal, stating an average of 115-125 people use it daily, with 74.67% of people crossing within camera view using the crosswalk correctly. He noted that prior to the signal's installation in May 2024, two pedestrian fatalities had occurred on Johnson; since its installation, there have been zero pedestrian fatalities on that street. - Brian reported that final plans are being developed for the Safe Streets for All grant, which will add further pedestrian infrastructure on Johnson, including LED lighting, speed limit reductions, and additional HAWK beacons. - In response to council questions, Brian stated the Johnson HAWK signal cost approximately $200,000 to construct. He also stated the city is awaiting cost estimates for converting downtown traffic signals to an "all-stop" configuration to eliminate left-turn greens during pedestrian walk intervals, a project expected to be in the six-figure range. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was adopted. - Ordinances 26034 and 26035 (citywide sales tax levy and special election) were approved, placing the question of a 5/8 cent sales tax on the November ballot. - Ordinances 26026 and 26027 (private club permits for Blazing Buffalo Sports Grill and My Place Hotel) were approved on third reading. - Ordinances on third reading for an alley abandonment (Henry Street) and a traffic sign designation (26024) were adopted. - First readings were successfully held for ordinances 26031, 26032, and 26033. - Council voted to reschedule the October 6th City Council and Public Works meetings to October 8th, noting the date coincides with an Arkansas State University home football game. - No formal policy changes were enacted regarding pedestrian accident investigation procedures, but the council committed to reviewing pedestrian safety issues, exploring the all-stop signal configuration downtown, and continuing public outreach.

The Public Works Council Committee met on September 1, 2026, at 11:00 AM to consider a proposed annexation ordinance and a traffic control device agreement. The committee approved previous minutes and ultimately recommended the traffic agreement to the full council, while voting against recommending the annexation. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the August 4, 2026 meeting (MIN-26:074): Motion by Chris Moore, seconded by Charles Coleman, passed with 7 ayes (present: 8 members, Chair John Street did not vote). Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Gramling (Gramling Law Firm), on behalf of the applicant Browning Family Trust, expressed support for annexing 160 acres south of Valley View. He argued that City Water and Light's plan to install a lift station on the property necessitated annexation to avoid creating an enclave, and that without annexation the city would have no control over future development due to the 2025 repeal of extraterritorial jurisdiction. He stated there were no current development plans. - Terry Browning, a family member of the trust, expressed support for annexation, providing historical background on the farm and confirming no immediate development plans, but noting inevitable future development. He suggested City Water and Light would prefer to supply its own power rather than pay Craighead Electric. Discussion Items - Annexation Ordinance (ORD-26:029): Councilmembers debated the proposal extensively. Councilmember Chris Moore voiced strong opposition, noting the property would be surrounded on three sides by county land and that annexing 160 acres would multiply the burden on city services. He stated the city has ample undeveloped land within current limits. Councilmember Kevin Miller opposed, citing existing weaknesses in city services and describing annexation as "one more straw on the camel's back." Councilmember LJ Bryant suggested that future annexations should require a tangible benefit for the city, such as park land. Chairman John Street echoed opposition, pointing out that Jonesboro is the second-largest city in Arkansas by area (82.5 square miles) and that an impact fee study is underway; he argued no further annexation should occur until impact fees are in place. He also noted that City Water and Light will proceed with the lift station regardless of annexation. - Traffic Control Device Resolution (RES-26:105): The committee reviewed a resolution authorizing an agreement with the Arkansas Department of Transportation for modifying traffic signals on Highway 91 at Marion Berry Parkway and Caraway Road, installing a pedestrian hybrid beacon at Melrose Street, and installing a rectangular rapid-flashing beacon (RRFB) at Dean Street. No opposition or discussion was offered. Key Outcomes - The motion to recommend the annexation ordinance (ORD-26:029) to the full City Council failed (2 ayes, 5 nays). Voting in favor: Charles Coleman and Janice Porter. Voting against: Kevin Miller, LJ Bryant, Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams, and Chris Moore. - The motion to recommend the traffic control device resolution (RES-26:105) to the full City Council passed (7-0). All present members voted aye. - The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Finance & Administration Council Committee of Jonesboro, Arkansas, met on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Municipal Center. The committee considered two resolutions: one requesting free utility services from City Water and Light for city-owned property, and another amending the FY2026 budget to purchase two fire department trucks. Six members were present, one was absent. Consent Calendar - MIN-26:075 – Minutes of the Special Called Finance Committee meeting in conjunction with the Public Safety Committee on August 6, 2026. Approved by a vote of 5 ayes (John Street, Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams, Charles Coleman, Brian Emison) with 1 absent (David McClain). - MIN-26:077 – Minutes of the Finance Committee meeting on August 11, 2026. Approved by the same 5-0 vote (1 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - RES-26:103 – Free Utility Services for City‑Owned Property: The resolution requests City Water and Light (CWL) to provide free utilities at 1709 East Highland Drive. Chairman Joe Hafner noted a typographical error in the last sentence (“under authority should be issued to it”) and City Attorney Carol Duncan confirmed it could be corrected before the full council. Councilmember John Street recused himself due to his position on the CWL Board. The resolution was recommended to the full council by a vote of 4 ayes (Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams, Charles Coleman, Brian Emison), 1 absent, and 1 abstention (John Street). - RES-26:104 – Purchase of Two 2026 Chevrolet 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 Trucks for Fire Department: This resolution amends the FY2026 operating budget by $130,000 to purchase two trucks (total $65,000 each, including upfitting for emergency lighting, sirens, bed topper, and slide-out) through the Arkansas State Vehicle Purchasing Contract. Fire Chief Marty Hamrick answered questions: the trucks will replace 2011 and 2012 Ford Explorers; the new trucks will serve as battalion chief vehicles, stepping down the current 2021 models to staff use. Chief Hamrick also reported that a larger Pierce apparatus purchased in 2024 is expected this fall, and two more ordered earlier this year are anticipated in late 2025. The resolution was recommended to the full council by a vote of 5 ayes (John Street, Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams, Charles Coleman, Brian Emison), 1 absent. Key Outcomes - Both resolutions (RES-26:103 and RES-26:104) were recommended to the full city council for final approval. - A typo in RES-26:103 will be corrected before council consideration. - The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Anthony Coleman, seconded by John Street, passed 5-0 (1 absent).

The regular meeting of the (presumably) City Board or Commission scheduled for August 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM was unable to be called to order because a quorum of commissioners was not present. The chair noted that two commissioners were out and they awaited a third for two to three minutes, but no quorum materialized. The meeting was therefore cancelled and will be rescheduled for the next regular meeting date. Public Comments & Testimony (Informal) - One member of the public asked why physical presence is required if all proper paperwork has been submitted and reviewed by board members. The chair responded that the meeting must be held in public. Key Outcomes - No quorum was achieved; the meeting could not be called to order. - No business was conducted, no votes taken. - Pending items will be heard at the next scheduled meeting.