Public Meetings - Jonesboro, Arkansas

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM on June 16, 2026, with members Gilmour, Miles, and Billy present. The board considered three variance requests and approved the minutes from the June 2, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the June 2, 2026 meeting were approved by a motion and second, with a unanimous roll call vote. Discussion Items - Variance Request for Shannon Key (Presented by Brandon Wood): The request was for smaller setbacks on the north and east sides of an existing building at a lot owned by Shannon Key. The building was originally constructed too close to property lines on multiple lots and had since been replatted into one lot. No structural changes were planned, only interior cleaning and site improvements (curb, gutter, asphalt) as required by the city. The building is used for office space. The variance was needed to bring the property into compliance for potential sale. The board approved the variance unanimously. - Variance Request for Stone Bridge Construction (Greensboro Village, Represented by Rob Hester): Two variances from the Greensboro Village pattern book (adopted as city code) were requested for a restaurant building. The first variance was for a 36% glass door frontage (required 40%), due to tables at the front preventing full glass to the floor. The second variance was for a parking shortage of two spaces; the building is on a narrow lot with limited on-site parking, but shared parking is available throughout Greensboro Village, and the owner had a letter of support from the development owner. The board approved both variances unanimously. - Variance Request for Robert Turner (1421 and 1423): The applicant sought a variance to build a new residence on a 50-foot-wide lot (1423) that requires a 60-foot lot width in the R1 zoning. The applicant had previously built a similar house next door (1421) under a variance. The existing house at 1423 was deemed not worth renovating (old wiring, plumbing). The applicant had replatted three lots into one conforming lot. A suggested rezoning to RS-8 (which allows 50-foot lots) was considered but would create spot zoning. The board approved the variance unanimously. Key Outcomes - All three variance requests were approved by unanimous votes (3-0). - The meeting was adjourned without further discussion. Roll Call Votes - Minutes approval: Gilmour yes, Miles yes, Billy yes. - Variance for Shannon Key: Gilmour yes, Miles yes, Billy yes. - Variance for Stone Bridge Construction: Gilmour yes, Miles yes, Billy yes. - Variance for Robert Turner: Gilmour yes, Miles yes, Billy yes.

The City Council of Jonesboro, Arkansas, met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Municipal Center. Mayor Harold Copenhaver presided. All nine present council members voted on several items, including a special presentation on downtown progress, approval of the FY2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan, a resolution requesting free utility services from City Water and Light, and the first reading of a zoning change. Special Presentation - Downtown Jonesboro Alliance Update (COM-26:034): Director Sarah Doss provided an overview of downtown projects and the Entertainment District nearing its second anniversary. Key highlights included: - A six-month pilot program transitioning Main Street to one lane, now in its second month. A survey will be distributed to residents, businesses, and patrons. - Planned developments on Cate Street: a proposed hotel (feasibility study positive), a brewery, a restaurant, pickleball courts, and a park with an amphitheater (target open spring 2027). Bids for construction are expected to start in September 2026. - Record-breaking 2025 downtown investment of $27,545,831.66 in building improvements, revitalization, and maintenance. - The Entertainment District has generated positive economic impact and increased pedestrian traffic. DJA reported zero police reports directly related to the district in nearly two years. - Ms. Doss noted that the most common negative feedback about the one-lane pilot is that the delivery lane is on the wrong side of the street; the survey will address this. Councilmember L.J. Bryant asked about metrics for measuring district success; Ms. Doss explained that wristband counts are inconsistent due to different point-of-sale systems, so they rely on geofencing data showing longer dwell times and business growth. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (9-0): The consent agenda was adopted with the removal of RES-26:064 for discussion. Items passed included: - MIN-26:050: Minutes of the June 2, 2026 council meeting. - RES-26:062: Resolution to place a municipal lien on property at 316 S. McClure (Parcel 01-144183-21000) owned by SBREME, LLC in the amount of $465. - RES-26:065: Resolution to amend the City Salary and Administration Plan (including new job descriptions and pay grades for Permit Coordinator, Marketing/Community Outreach Coordinator, and Digital Media Specialist). Discussion Items - RES-26:064 – FY2026-2027 CDBG Annual Action Plan: Councilmember Dr. Anthony Coleman, who had missed the committee meeting, asked for clarification. Grants and CDBG Director Chris Richey explained: - Public services are capped at 15% of the total allocation ($717,683). An application process with a scoring rubric was used; allocations to CASA ($11,500), Foundation of Arts ($12,222.35), North Jonesboro CDC ($8,033.73), and others were based on rubric scores and applicant requests. - Public infrastructure funds ($332,344.16) have not yet been assigned to specific projects; past uses include street overlays, sidewalks, parks, and nonprofit facilities in low-to-moderate income areas. Future projects will be selected in coordination with Parks and Engineering. The advisory committee (eight members) was selected months ago. Mr. Richey agreed to email the rubric and application to Councilmember Coleman. The resolution passed 9-0. - RES-26:060 – Request for Free Utility Services from City Water and Light for City-Owned Property: Councilmember John Street recused himself due to his membership on the CWL Board of Directors. The resolution requests free utilities at 301 West Monroe Street. It passed 8-0 (1 recused). - ORD-26:018 – Zoning Change from R-1 to Planned Development for 1004 N. Caraway Road: The council suspended the rules to read the ordinance by title only. The first reading was held; no discussion. The ordinance will proceed to a second reading. Mayor's Reports Mayor Copenhaver reported the following: - Employee of the Month: Jordan Wilson, HR representative, who started as an intern in summer 2024. - Welcome back to Ronnie Shaver (maintenance director) and good news that Ronnie Sturch (E-911 director) is cancer-free. - Youth Council applications (grades 9-12) open through July 1, 2026. - Maintenance closures at Craighead Forest Park: Access 5 playground, splash pad, and pavilion closed June 24 and 26. - Ritter Communications and Great Plains Communications are forming RightFiber, serving over 400 communities across 20 states. - Community cleanup on June 6 collected 11 tons of trash and 62 tires. Next cleanup July 11 at Lacey Drive. - Upcoming events: Juneteenth Fireworks (June 19), astronaut Susan Kilrain talk (June 18), Sunset Sessions (June 20), and crosswalk upgrades at Jonesboro High School. - Groundbreaking for the Real-Time Crime Center in early July; engineering proposal for Caraway Road at next finance meeting. Council Reports - Councilmember John Street expressed concern about the youth/senior citizen pond at Craighead Forest, noting that Game & Fish may not dredge it as initially planned. He hopes the city can find a way to do so to maintain fish stocking. Mayor Copenhaver said the city is in communication with Game & Fish about their property additions. - Councilmember Chris Moore reported that some string lights downtown are not working; maintenance director Ronnie Shaver noted new bulbs are on order, and coordination is needed to shut down the street for rehanging. Public Comments - No members of the public addressed the council. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda items (minutes, lien, salary plan) passed unanimously. - RES-26:064 (CDBG Annual Action Plan) passed 9-0. - RES-26:060 (free utility services) passed 8-0 (1 recused). - ORD-26:018 (zoning change) held at first reading; will advance to second reading. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:45 PM (motion by Councilmember Moore, second by Emison, passed 9-0).

The Jonesboro Public Safety Council Committee convened on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM at the Municipal Center in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The committee voted on several traffic-related ordinances and federal grant resolutions, received a detailed first-year presentation on the Park Ranger program, and discussed safety concerns raised by members. Chairman Brian Emison presided with 5 members present (Emison, Porter, Moore, Bryant, Miller) and 2 members absent (Gibson, McClain). Approval of Minutes - The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the Public Safety Committee meeting on April 21, 2026 (4-0 vote, 2 absent). New Business All ordinances and resolutions were approved for recommendation to the full City Council with identical 4-0 votes. - School Traffic Pattern Modification (ORD-26:017): An ordinance modifying the one-way traffic times on Wilkins Avenue and Hillcrest Drive near Jonesboro Public Schools. The new designated one-way times are 7:15 AM to 8:15 AM and 2:45 PM to 3:45 PM on school days. - Traffic Signs Installation (ORD-26:019): An ordinance authorizing the placement of stop signs at Meadow Road, Kendrick Drive, Pike Road, and Wood Cove, and establishing a 25 mph speed limit on multiple residential streets. - Assistance to Firefighters Grant (RES-26:066): A resolution authorizing the city to apply for the FY2025 AFG grant through FEMA. - Fire Prevention and Safety Grant (RES-26:067): A resolution authorizing the city to apply for the FY2025 Fire Prevention and Safety Grant through FEMA. Discussion Items & Pending Business - Stop Sign Request at Craighead Forest: Councilmember LJ Bryant requested a stop sign be installed near the Fort Rotary area at Craighead Forest Park. He described a safety hazard, noting his vehicle did not automatically stop due to the lack of a sign. An Engineering representative stated the department would evaluate the request. - Downtown Traffic Delineators: Councilmember Chris Moore requested replacing plastic traffic cones at Main Street & Washington Avenue (and Main & Huntington) with concrete planters. He described the cones as “unsightly” and frequently run over. Engineering Director Craig Light expressed opposition to concrete planters, stating they were previously removed over aesthetic and vehicle damage concerns, but agreed to explore alternative solutions. Park Ranger Program Presentation Code Enforcement Director Scott Roper and Senior Code Officer Eric Schmidt presented a comprehensive update on the Park Ranger program’s first year. - Program Launch: The program officially began in July 2025 under Code Enforcement. Four rangers were hired and completed three weeks of training covering medical emergencies, legal procedures (Fourth Amendment, ADA, juvenile law), conflict resolution, de-escalation, and crowd management certification. - Role and Duties: Rangers work 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM as park ambassadors, enforcing park rules and city ordinances, assisting with medical and animal calls, providing crowd management at large events, and focusing on education and enforcement for the new JBR trail system. - Program Statistics: - 2025 (Partial Year): 74 complaints, 182 cases opened, 3 medical calls, 28 animal complaints. - January – May 2026: 102 complaints, 246 cases opened (268 violations), 8 medical calls, 14 animal complaints, 51 criminal violations, 6 arrests, 15 individuals criminally banned from parks. - Recognition: The program received the Trendsetter Award from the Arkansas Municipal League. - Future Goals: Expand the ranger coverage beyond the current four-person shift, increase community engagement, and create programs such as scavenger hunts and guided hikes or canoe trips with rangers. - Q&A: Councilmember Bryant asked about turnover training. Director Roper stated they will cross-train incoming rangers with Animal Control and Code Enforcement. On e-bike usage, Roper noted a bike rack is being installed to facilitate deployment at Craighead Forest. Other Business - Vector Mosquito Control Report: The committee filed the Vector Mosquito Control report for May 2026. Chairman Emison noted that data indicated increased spraying coupled with decreased mosquito counts. Key Outcomes - Votes: The committee approved the April 21 minutes and recommended all four items of new business (ORD-26:017, ORD-26:019, RES-26:066, RES-26:067) to the full City Council. - Directives: Engineering was directed to review the need for a stop sign at Craighead Forest Park and to propose alternative traffic delineation solutions for downtown intersections. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Councilmember Bryant, seconded by Councilmember Moore.

The Public Services Council Committee of the City of Jonesboro, Arkansas, met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 4:30 PM at the Municipal Center, 300 S. Church Street. City Clerk April Leggett confirmed roll call via electronic attendance. The committee received departmental updates from GOJO (transit) Director Lee Wells and Parks and Recreation Director Jim Stearns, approved three sets of meeting minutes, and heard no public comments. Consent Calendar - Minutes MIN-26:019 (Public Services Committee meeting, February 17, 2026), MIN-26:039 (Special Called meeting, April 21, 2026), and MIN-26:043 (Special Called meeting, May 5, 2026) were approved as listed on the agenda. Discussion Items - GOJO Transit Update (Lee Wells, GOJO Director): Wells presented a fare capping proposal. The standard fare is $2 per ride, with a $5 one-day pass. Riders who enroll in the pass ticketing program would pay no more than $20 per week and no more than $60 per month, regardless of trip frequency. Riders can load $2–$3 onto a card at a time or link a credit card, and a mobile phone option is available. The new system requires enrollment so rides are counted toward the cap, and it supports the transition away from cash. Wells noted the fare machine cannot make change ("they just literally drop it in"), and the cashless implementation is targeted for August. He also reported that one transit shelter remains uninstalled and that Message Point Media is handling the technology. The related public notice proposal includes three items: (1) making a pilot route permanent, including Arkansas State University (A-State) service; (2) adjustments to current routes; and (3) a new special event route extending transit into the Nettleton, Lowberg, and Matthews area—a part of town previously unserved by public transit. Wells noted the citizens advisory board has already discussed these proposals. - Council Discussion on GOJO: A councilmember questioned the advantage of the weekly $20 cap, asking what happens if a rider who does not buy the weekly pass reaches $20 in individual fares. Wells responded that riders cannot pay more than $20 per week if they are enrolled in the pass ticketing program, and that the system is designed to reduce passenger loading and unloading wait times. Another councilmember advised monitoring ridership closely, noting GOJO's revenue is a small portion of the city budget—"about two percent of our revenue"—and expressed concern about any negative ridership impact. - Parks and Recreation Update (Jim Stearns, Parks Director): Stearns reported a new youth shooting sports program, including trap shooting and .22 rifle competitions held every other weekend in May, June, and July, with a new trap shooting competition record. A full-week Miracle League kickball season is planned. Community centers have transitioned to a keyless entry system ("If you don't have one, you're not getting one"). Cleanup at Craighead Forest Park has concluded. Signage is being developed to notify the public of the existing no-smoking rule in parks (passed under the previous mayor), with signs planned first for Craighead Forest, then sports fields, then all parks; the department is coordinating with the ranger group and public safety. Stearns also discussed a project to install gates at Craighead Forest Park to close access at 10:00 PM, though he was uncertain whether past grant funding or budget proposals covered the gates and mentioned possibly using AI to search historical records. Councilmember Street expressed continued support for the Craighead gates, noting he has advocated for them over nine years on the committee. In response to councilmember requests, Stearns provided participation data but no spectator data—noting the new ticketing and cashless systems now enable that tracking, but no prior data exists. A councilmember observed that youth sports deposits were previously made as one large deposit, never separated by event or field, and requested revenue comparisons to the prior year. Councilmember Janice Porter asked how usage is divided at Joe Mack Campbell, and Stearns confirmed a 50/50 split between the two sports. Key Outcomes - Minutes from the February 17, April 21, and May 5, 2026 meetings were approved. - No new business or pending items were brought before the committee. - No public comments were offered. - No formal votes were taken; the GOJO fare capping, route, and public notice proposals were presented for discussion, with the expectation that they will proceed toward public notice. - Parks and Recreation will provide the committee with revenue comparisons to the prior year and will proceed with the no-smoking signage and Craighead Forest gate-related efforts. - The meeting was adjourned after the chair confirmed there was no additional committee business.

This meeting of the City of Jonesboro Metropolitan Area Planning Commission, held on June 9, 2026, addressed three subdivision approvals and two rezoning requests. The commission approved a preliminary subdivision (Woodridge Place Phase 4), a preliminary subdivision (Sky Point Sub Landing Phase 1), and a final subdivision (White Tail Crossing Phase 2). One rezoning request (RZ2608) for a pediatric farmhouse facility was recommended for approval, and another rezoning (RZ2609) was tabled to the next meeting at the applicant's request. Discussion Items - Woodridge Place Phase 4 - Preliminary Subdivision (27 lots): Proponent Darren Williams (McAllister Engineering) presented the next phase of an ongoing subdivision. Staff recommended approval with a stipulation requiring residential fire sprinkler systems on all new lots due to a single access point. The commission approved the motion unanimously. - Sky Point Sub Landing Phase 1 - Preliminary Subdivision (20 lots): The proponent (name not stated) noted that a traffic control measure would be added along the main road. Staff recommended approval, and the commission approved the preliminary plat. - White Tail Crossing Phase 2 - Final Subdivision (85 lots): Isaac Hamric (Mark Morris) presented the final plat. Staff confirmed compliance with the subdivision code, and the commission approved the final subdivision. - RZ2608 - Rezoning from R1 to PD at 1004 N. Caraway Road: David Tapp (Pediatrics Plus) requested a PUD to allow a farmhouse for children with autism, including a 12,000 sq ft building, a barn with donkeys/sheep, a chicken coop, greenhouse, and gardens. The facility would operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30-6:30 PM, with minimal lighting. Staff recommended approval with stipulations (satisfy city engineer requirements, stormwater and floodplain compliance, final site plan approval, and change of use subject to planning department approval). The commission voted to approve, sending a favorable recommendation to the city council. - RZ2609 - Rezoning from C3 to RM16 at 2038 N. Caraway Street: Jim Gramling (Graham & Law Firm) requested a tabling to the next meeting after concerns about density were raised at the pre-meeting. The commission voted to table the item without renotification, as per past practice. Key Outcomes - Approved: Woodridge Place Phase 4 preliminary subdivision (motion to approve with stipulation) - Approved: Sky Point Sub Landing Phase 1 preliminary subdivision (motion to approve) - Approved: White Tail Crossing Phase 2 final subdivision (motion to approve) - Recommended for Approval (to City Council): RZ2608 - rezoning to PD for Pediatrics Plus farmhouse (with stipulations) - Tabled: RZ2609 - rezoning to RM16 (to next meeting, applicant's request)

The Finance & Administration Council Committee of Jonesboro met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Municipal Center. Chair Joe Hafner called the meeting to order with a quorum present. Members present: Joe Hafner, John Street, David McClain, Charles Coleman, Brian Emison. Absent: Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams. City Clerk April Leggett confirmed electronic attendance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (MIN-26:049): Minutes from the May 26, 2026, Finance Committee meeting were approved by a motion from John Street, seconded by Brian Emison. Passed 4-0 (with two absent). Discussion Items - RES-26:060 – Free Utility Services from City Water and Light for City-Owned Property: Councilmember John Street recused himself due to his position on the City Water and Light Board of Directors. The property at 301 West Monroe Street is where the Real Time Crime Center will be located. A motion to forward to full council was made by Brian Emison, seconded by David McClain. Passed 3-0 (Street abstained, two absent). - RES-26:061 – Municipal Lien on 300 E Pine Street (Unicorn LLC, $865): Code Enforcement Director Scott Roper reported that the lien paperwork was incorrect and recommended resending. The committee voted to postpone the item temporarily until the next Finance meeting. Motion by John Street, seconded by Brian Emison. Passed 4-0 (two absent). - RES-26:062 – Municipal Lien on 316 S McClure (SBREME LLC, $465): Director Roper confirmed the lien was correct. After clarification on parcel numbers, the committee forwarded the resolution to full council. Motion by John Street, seconded by Brian Emison. Passed 4-0. - RES-26:064 – FY2026-2027 CDBG Annual Action Plan: Grants Director Chris Richey presented the plan with a total federal allocation of $716,683. The budget includes allocations to City Youth Ministries ($11,123.63), Sure Foundation ($11,000.70), Jonesboro Business Association ($9,338.35), and North Johnsboro Community Development Corp ($8,033.73). Councilmember Dr. Charles Coleman clarified that the $15,000 for first-time home buyer assistance is $5,000 per person for three buyers. Councilmember David McClain asked about application limits (none, as long as qualifications are met) and concern over federal funding cuts. Richey expressed confidence in continued funding. Public infrastructure funds can be used for sidewalks, overlays, parks, and capital projects in low-to-moderate income areas. Motion to forward to council by John Street, seconded by Brian Emison. Passed 4-0. - RES-26:065 – Amendment to City Salary and Administration Plan: Chief Administrative Officer Brian Richardson explained the budget-neutral adjustments due to retirements and efficiency improvements. Changes include reclassifying positions (e.g., Finance Manager Assistant to Assistant Finance Director; creating Permit Technician; eliminating vacant Admin Assistant and GIS Coordinator; adding an Engineer position). The Public Information Specialist was re-graded from 113 to 115 for equity. No headcount increase in Communications. Future recommendations from the Matrix study for the Building Department are expected. Motion to forward to council by John Street, seconded by Brian Emison. Passed 4-0. - Other Business – Swim Team Contracts: Chair Hafner inquired about status. Richardson reported a tentative agreement on lane division; details on winter rates and billing are being finalized. Both swim teams are currently operating under the agreement, and the contract is expected at the next Finance meeting. Key Outcomes - Minutes of May 26, 2026, approved. - RES-26:060 forwarded to full council (Street recused). - RES-26:061 postponed to next Finance meeting for correction. - RES-26:062 forwarded to full council. - RES-26:064 forwarded to full council. - RES-26:065 forwarded to full council. - Swim team contract update provided; contract anticipated at next meeting. - Meeting adjourned by motion (John Street, second Brian Emison) with all in favor.

The Jonesboro Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA) held a special called meeting on June 2, 2026, to consider two variance requests. Both requests were approved unanimously after discussion and public comment. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Motion and second to approve minutes from the April 21, 2026 BZA meeting. Approved unanimously by roll call. Public Comments & Testimony - For VR-26-12 (Hubble Cv), an adjacent property owner briefly spoke about their property boundary and driveway location, but did not express clear opposition or support. Discussion Items - VR-26-11 – WCMC, LLC at 1601 Granger Dr: The applicant requested a variance from subdivision regulations to create two single-family residential lots (0.22 acres each) on a 0.44-acre parcel. The applicant explained that under current regulations, splitting the lot would require including a neighboring parcel (owned by someone else) and triggering stormwater detention and sidewalk requirements. The previous lot split occurred 14 years ago. Board members discussed precedent (one similar case in the past year) and the lack of a time limit on lot splits. The applicant confirmed both lots would conform to zoning requirements after a concurrent rezoning from multifamily to single-family. A motion to approve the variance was seconded and passed unanimously by roll call (4-0). - VR-26-12 – Jerod Monette at 803 Hubble Cv: Agent David James explained that the house was built in the 1970s with a front setback of approximately 1.5 feet from a platted but never-constructed cul-de-sac right-of-way. This discrepancy created a title cloud when the property went under contract for sale. The applicant requested a variance to accept the existing setback. Board members noted similar issues in the same subdivision from incomplete development in the 1970s. Discussion included alternatives: appealing to circuit court or seeking right-of-way abandonment. The variance was approved unanimously by roll call (4-0). Key Outcomes - VR-26-11: Approved (4-0). Variance granted to create two lots without triggering full subdivision requirements. - VR-26-12: Approved (4-0). Variance granted to accept the existing 1.5-foot front setback. - Both motions passed with all board members voting "yes" on roll call. - The next regular meeting was noted for June 16, 2026.

The Jonesboro City Council convened on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 5:30 PM at the Municipal Center, 300 S. Church Street. Mayor Harold Copenhaver presided. Roll call confirmed 11 members present (Brian Emison, Chris Moore, Chris Gibson, David McClain, Joe Hafner, Anthony Coleman, Janice Porter, John Street, Charles Coleman, LJ Bryant, Ann Williams) and one absent (Kevin Miller). The meeting included special presentations, consent agenda, unfinished business, mayor's report, city council reports, and public comments. Consent Calendar - MIN-26:046 – Minutes of the City Council meeting on May 19, 2026, approved. - RES-26:044 – Resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a lease agreement with the North Jonesboro Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) for space at 911 Magnolia Road. (Enactment No. R-EN-076-2026) - RES-26:056 – Resolution accepting a permanent right-of-way easement from Arkansas State University for constructing and maintaining pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements. (Enactment No. R-EN-077-2026) - RES-26:058 – Resolution authorizing an escrow deposit agreement in connection with defeasance of bonds issued to support Colson Caster LLC and its affiliates, and conveyance of real property. (Enactment No. R-EN-078-2026) All consent items were passed unanimously by a vote of 11-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Patti Lack (4108 Forest Hill Road): Expressed disappointment that a more detailed expense report from the Parks Department regarding two volleyball tournaments had not been provided as promised about a month and a half ago. She questioned specific expenses including Potbelly and hotel costs. She also raised safety concerns about five large trees planted between the sidewalk and the street at the Simmons Bank building on Caraway Road. She stated the trees block visibility for drivers turning left, creating a dangerous intersection, and noted that one person has already been hit. She requested that the trees be removed or relocated, and indicated that Simmons Bank representatives are amenable to the city moving the trees elsewhere on the property. - Edward Orr (2902 Breezewood Drive): Spoke about a perceived lack of empathy for low-income neighborhoods, arguing that city funds should be directed to areas of greatest need rather than already developed areas. He alleged that the City Attorney's office denied him four times to file charges at the Jonesboro Police Department. He also brought up the case of Hayley Boyd, a woman paralyzed in a car accident involving a police officer, and urged the council to ensure she receives necessary resources. He referenced a Supreme Court ruling suggesting she might be entitled to $50,000, calling that insufficient. He appealed for the city to do more for all communities, regardless of income. Discussion Items - Unfinished Business – Ordinances on Third Reading: - ORD-26:016 – Ordinance to authorize the issuance of industrial development revenue bonds under the Municipalities and Counties Industrial Development Revenue Bond Law for the purpose of securing and developing industry for the InnovAsian project. This includes authorization for a bond purchase agreement, a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement, a trust indenture, a lease agreement, and related matters. The ordinance was passed unanimously (11-0) on third reading. Enactment No. O-EN-021-2026. - ORD-26:015 (held from previous meetings) – Ordinance to amend Chapter 117 (Zoning Ordinance) changing zoning boundaries from RM-8 to RS-5 for property located at 1601 Granger Drive, as requested by Crafton Tull. The ordinance was passed unanimously (11-0) on third reading. Enactment No. O-EN-022-2026. - Mayor's Report: - Mayor Copenhaver reminded council members that month-end reports were available. He announced that all area-wide schools are out and urged caution for children and new drivers. City pools and splash pads are open; the climbing wall at Earl Bell Community Center extended hours (Monday-Friday 12-9 PM, Saturday 12-5 PM). The next Sunset Session at Craighead Forest Park is June 20 at the Bandshell (Access 6), featuring live bands and free admission. - Promoted Gen Cadets free program by DARE in July, offering hands-on activities, swimming, and leadership skills; email DARE@JonesboroAR.gov for info. Applications for the Youth Advancement Council (grades 9-12) are open through July 1 at JonesboroAR.gov. - Encouraged participation in Plan Jonesboro comprehensive planning process; community survey at PlanJonesboro.com, public input meetings on June 4, June 25, and July 16, with additional webinars throughout summer. - Recounted the Special Olympics send-off on May 21, the Skirmish Delta Gravel Festival (over 300 cyclists), and Arkansas State men's golf team earning a spot in the 2026 NCAA Championship (first in program history). - Announced a $42,358 grant from the Patrick Lehigh Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program (U.S. Department of Justice) to purchase 40 new Armor Express Raven II Tactical SWAT carrier systems for the Jonesboro Police Department. - Noted the next neighborhood cleanup on June 6 at Fisher Street United Methodist Church (8 AM - noon); Code Enforcement will also pick up debris placed curbside in that area. - COO Tony Thomas gave a summary of departmental reports: - Emphasized increased demand for services in summer. Staffing shortages persist: Animal Control is short officers (shelter always full, added kennel capacity last month to reduce euthanasia); Street Department has vacancies at lower-level positions; Code Enforcement is down one officer but opened about 560 cases in May. The shelter strives to be a no-kill facility. - Last month's cleanup collected about 10 tons of debris. - Bond projects: 911 center in final design stages; Caraway Road project progressing. - Parks is heavily active with educational programs, community events, and partnerships. Grants Department worked with the Community Development Citizen Advisory Committee to score applications for nonprofit funding. - HR is actively recruiting through job fairs to fill staffing needs. Departments continue efficient operations despite shortages. - City Council Reports: - Brian Emison: Recognized Code Enforcement officer Blake Nichols for directing traffic after an accident on Friday. He discussed a Monday meeting with administration about police pay and incentive programs. He noted the department is down about 20 officers and suggested using unrealized salary expenses from those vacancies to provide additional compensation for current officers who worked short-staffed, similar to what Arkansas State Police did previously. - Charles Coleman: Joked that Code Enforcement will receive a half slab of ribs at the cleanup. - L.J. Bryant: Asked about progress on addressing panhandling and loitering since Attorney General Griffin challenged cities last summer. Mayor Copenhaver said the city is leaning on state legislators; City Attorney Carol Duncan explained legal complexities: being on a sidewalk is different from standing on traffic islands (safety concern), but state highway rules require being 10 feet from the roadway unless a sidewalk exists – most state highways have sidewalks. The city attempted to put up signs encouraging donations to local charities but they were taken down by the Highway Department. The city has reached out for permission again. Mayor noted proactive meetings with police, sheriff, and state police about summer gatherings to ensure safety. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda, including three resolutions, approved unanimously (11-0). - ORD-26:016 (InnovAsian industrial development bonds) passed unanimously (11-0) on third reading. - ORD-26:015 (zoning change at 1601 Granger Drive) passed unanimously (11-0) on third reading. - Council will continue exploring police pay incentives, including a potential retention bonus for current officers using funds from vacant positions. - City will continue legal efforts to address panhandling on traffic islands, focusing on safety arguments, and will coordinate with state legislators and the Highway Department on signage. - Staff will follow up on public comments: provide detailed expense report for volleyball tournaments, and investigate ownership and safety of trees at Simmons Bank on Caraway Road. - Meeting adjourned by unanimous vote (motion by Chris Moore, second by Joe Hafner).

The Jonesboro Metropolitan Area Planning Commission met on May 26, 2026, at 11:30 AM to consider a preliminary subdivision application for Fountain Square Park. The meeting opened with roll call and approval of the April 14, 2026, minutes. The sole agenda item was a request by John Easley, on behalf of East Arkansas Area Agency on Aging, for approval of a preliminary subdivision plat for the Fountain Square Park area (the former Malco Theater Park and former Fountain Square Park). The application proposed seven lots with a new right-of-way. City staff confirmed the plat complied with all applicable standards. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about existing buildings on the property. After discussion, the commission voted unanimously to approve the preliminary subdivision. Discussion Items - John Easley, representing East Arkansas Area Agency on Aging, presented a preliminary subdivision proposal for the Fountain Square Park site (the former Malco Theater Park and former Fountain Square Park). The plan includes seven lots and a new right-of-way, with water, sewer plans, and a traffic study already submitted. Easley noted that the intersection at Highland Drive and Bernard Street is a known problem, and the applicant will fund a dedicated right-turn lane on the south side of Highland Drive and Bernard Street to improve traffic flow. Easley stated that "we've agreed or talked about solutions and alternatives" and that the turn lane is being paid for by the city's budget and East Arkansas's budget. - City staff confirmed that the preliminary subdivision plan complies with all regulations, including subdivision design standards, site protection, and minimum square footage requirements. - Commissioner questions focused on the status of existing buildings on the property. The applicant clarified that all buildings on the platted lots have been demolished, except for one on the south end (the former Basic Square building, currently used as the East Arkansas office). That building will be torn down once the new office is complete. The new office building will be located on Lot 7 in the southeast corner, on Grant Street. The existing building is not on any of the seven proposed lots; it sits on a separate lot that was previously replatted into one lot via a minor plat. As part of this process, the applicant will dedicate a lot to the agency through the record plat. Key Outcomes - The commission approved the preliminary subdivision plat for Fountain Square Park as submitted. The motion was made, seconded, and all commissioners voted in favor (unanimous approval). - The approval includes the applicant's commitment to install a dedicated right-turn lane at the Highland Drive and Bernard Street intersection. - The meeting was adjourned after the vote, with no further staff or commission comments.