The Finance & Administration Council Committee of Jonesboro, Arkansas met on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Municipal Center. The meeting covered approval of minutes, multiple municipal lien resolutions, applications for state and regional grants, a contract to purchase a police facility, and associated financing. Key discussions centered on the Craighead Forest Park playground grant and the proposed purchase of a building at 1709 East Highland Drive for police operations.
RES-26:097 – 823 Parkview Lien Postponed: Councilmember John Street reported the violation had been paid and moved to postpone indefinitely. The motion passed 6-0, and the item was not forwarded.
RES-26:098 – FY2027 Outdoor Recreation Matching Grant (Craighead Forest Park): Discussion focused on a $999,980 grant request with a $499,990 city match for playground and splash pad improvements at Craighead Forest Park. Grants Director Chris Richey noted the competitive nature of the grant and that it was previously awarded for Allen Park. Parks Director Jim Stearns mentioned a potential capital campaign with the Rotary Club to raise matching funds. Chief Administrative Officer Brian Richardson stated the playground is over 21 years old, sees over 100,000 visitors annually, and requires significant investment regardless of the grant. He clarified that the grant is project-specific and would not impact funding for the East Jonesboro Park project (phase one already funded at ~$4 million). Councilmember Dr. Anthony Coleman expressed concern about prioritizing this grant over other park needs, while Councilmember Dr. Charles Coleman requested a parks maintenance priority list. The item was forwarded to full council with a 5-1 vote (Anthony Coleman voting nay).
RES-26:100 – Delta Regional Authority Community Infrastructure Fund Grant: This resolution authorized applying for $671,000 (with a 10% city match of $67,100) to retrofit the city's incinerator, which had been down due to needed heat-resistant panels. Councilmember David McClain asked about the scope; Chief Operating Officer Tony Thomas explained the procurement was complete and the grant would offset costs. The resolution passed 6-0.
RES-26:099 – Purchase of 1709 East Highland Drive for Police Department: Discussion centered on the proposed $2,750,000 purchase of the former Shelter Insurance building (14,418 sq. ft.) to consolidate police operations currently spread across five facilities, including community centers. Councilmember David McClain requested an independent inspection report and a financial analysis before voting, noting he had not received them. He moved to postpone to the next Finance meeting, but the motion lacked a second and failed. Councilmember Brian Emison read a statement from Mayor Copenhaver supporting the purchase, citing favorable location, pricing at ~$200/sq. ft., and the need to free up community centers. McClain expressed concerns about water intrusion and unknown repair costs. Councilmember Ann Williams reported positive community feedback. The resolution was forwarded to full council with a 5-1 vote (McClain voting nay).
ORD-26:028 – General Revenue Promissory Note for Police Facility: This ordinance authorized a $3,000,000 short-term loan (Amendment 78) at 4.83% interest over 60 months from Arvest Bank to finance the purchase and improvements at 1709 East Highland Drive. The loan was deemed essential for public safety. The ordinance was forwarded to full council with a 5-1 vote (McClain voting nay).
Next Steps: The full City Council will consider these items. Staff will provide the independent inspection report and financial analysis to councilmembers before the council vote. The Parks Advisory Board will meet on August 19, 2026 to develop a needs assessment and priority list for park improvements.
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