Public Meetings - Texarkana, Arkansas

The Texarkana City Council met on November 3, 2026, following roll call, an invocation, and the pledge of allegiance. The council adopted the consent agenda, heard public comments from a former police sergeant and a resident, and considered an ordinance to amend meeting agenda procedures. The ordinance failed on a 2–4 vote. Presentations & Proclamations - Cody Cunningham was recognized for 10 years of service with the Texarkana Fire Department (not present). - A proclamation was read declaring November 2–8, 2026 as Business Appreciation Week, presented by Director Laney Harris and signed by Mayor Alan L. Brown. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously: - Resolution authorizing change order 3 for the Ready Site water and sewer extension project. - Resolution authorizing an agreement with BWG Mechanical to replace a ground-level chiller and booster pump at the Bi-State Justice Building. - Resolution authorizing the Texarkana Regional Airport to approve a ground lease for the land under the old terminal and surrounding premises. - Resolution authorizing a purchase and sale agreement to sell the old terminal building to Texarkana College for $10. - Resolution adopting the airport’s 2027–2032 Capital Improvement Plan. - Resolution authorizing bids and award of a contract for facade restoration of the Jimmy Yates Terminal and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Facility, funded by a Texarkana Department of Transportation grant and airport operations and maintenance funds. - Resolution authorizing Garver Work Order 3 for paving within the Runway 4-22 safety area in the amount of $269,000, paid by an Arkansas Economic Development Commission grant with no increase in the city’s matching contribution. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Luna (former sergeant, Texarkana Police Department): Mr. Luna detailed his termination after an internal investigation involving a police explorer (“Trinity”). He argued the investigation was flawed: evidence (over 130 messages) was not collected, witnesses were not interviewed, required procedures were not followed, and a recording acknowledged by the city manager was not produced in his FOIA request. He alleged racial discrimination (an investigator assumed two Mexican-American officers were starting a lawn business) and disparate treatment compared to a white sergeant who was allowed to resign. He also claimed the police chief communicated with Civil Service Commission members before his appeal hearing, and that Trinity and her mother later said Trinity initially had no complaint and felt coerced. Mr. Luna requested an independent investigation and written findings. He stated he has an EEOC right-to-sue letter. Mayor Brown noted Mr. Luna had exceeded the 3-minute limit but allowed him to finish. Mr. Luna said he possesses a recording of the chief acknowledging disparate treatment. - Sandy Burton (Bowie Miller County Data Center Opposition): Ms. Burton urged the council not to sell water to a Texas buyer, warning that data center development and drought will create future water scarcity. She asked the council to keep water resources for local needs. Discussion Items Item 11 – Ordinance Amending Meeting Agenda Procedures: Director Harris introduced an ordinance to allow a board member to place an item on the agenda without needing a second or a workshop, reverting to the pre-July 2017 process. He cited examples of items he was prevented from bringing forward (changing Sampson Lane material from concrete to asphalt; using $50,000 in housing funds for new homes in Wards 2/3). The ordinance was read three times. A motion to adopt was made and seconded. No public comment was offered. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: All items passed unanimously. - Item 11 Ordinance: The motion to adopt failed on a roll call vote: Director Jewell – No; Director Roberts – No; Director Harris – Yes; Director Hollibush – No; Assistant Mayor Brewer – Yes; Mayor Brown – No. (Director Smith was present earlier but was not recorded voting.) - Board Commentary: Director Harris inquired about enforcement timelines for several burnt/dilapidated houses (on Burden, Prospect, and Outer Streets). The city manager said he would look into it. Harris also asked about pursuing state housing bill (HB 266) funds and whether exclusivity payments (approx. $500,000 from a water rights agreement) could be set aside for housing. The city manager responded that the budget is extremely tight with millions in cuts needed, that exclusivity funds are not guaranteed and will likely be needed to balance the budget, and that he prefers to handle housing efforts internally rather than through the Council of Governments (COG). He stated he can provide a proposed timeline for street bond projects. - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 16, 2026. Adjournment A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved unanimously.

The Texarkana Advertising and Promotion Commission met on October 20, 2026 to hear 38 funding requests for the city's tourism advertising and promotion fund. The lengthy meeting featured testimony from non-profits, event organizers, and city departments, with requests evaluated heavily against the metric of driving overnight visitor stays (heads in beds). After hours of presentations and deliberation, the commission unanimously approved a $1.178 million allocation package. Media & Marketing - KLFI TV (Channel 35): The station owner proposed donating the station to the city. Commissioner Jewell noted the application was incomplete due to missing financial statements. - Texarkana Regional Airport: Director Shannon Elliott reported a 1,000% increase in Facebook views (811,000 total views) since July 2026. Funds would support MRO convention attendance and online advertising. - Texarkana Chamber of Commerce: Presented the AY Weekender magazine feature and requested continued funding for the 2027 edition and reprinting of tourism materials. - Destination Downtown (TXK): Reported 1,400 attendees in 2025. The 2026 event featured headliner Mark Chestnut to increase regional draw. Festival & Event Pitches - The Scholars Program (Juneteenth): Reported a month-long series drawing 3,500 to 5,000 people in 2026. Booked an act with 500,000 followers for 2027, projecting 5,000 to 6,000 attendees. - Twin City Malifest: A new event from Goodyeats Catering and The Scholars, projecting 6,000 attendees for a July festival and rodeo. - Intense Library Productions: Proposed four events. Reported the Tracy Lawrence concert generated $140,000 in direct visitor spending. - Picklefest: Founders stated the event is self-sufficient as a non-profit. The funding request was specifically to add a Friday night concert to turn it into a regional multi-day destination. - Four States Outdoor & Sportsman Expo: A new for-profit event. Applicants confirmed the event would occur with or without funding. - Winners Circle Events: Presented five city-contract events. Commissioner George criticized cleanup issues at past events. The applicant responded by including cleanup expenses in the new budget. Parks, Sports & Recreation - TABA (Ed Wort Park): April Lane requested capital and operational funds, highlighting a 121,000 annual visitor count comparable to Swanger Park. She emphasized the burden on volunteers for maintenance and safety issues. - Texarkana Regional Air Show: Requested $51,000 to move toward an annual, self-funded multi-day model. The 2026 event drew 11,000 wristband holders from 23 states. - Run The Line: A 19-year-old half marathon drawing runners from 14 states. Proceeds support the city trail system. - P23 Water Park / Big Dam Jam: Johnny Blevins reported taking over the park to prevent closure. He returned $11,000 in unspent funds from the previous cycle and requested $136,500 for 2027 events. Arts, Education & Beautification - Texarkana Arts & Historic District: Requested funds for blade signs, trolley maintenance, and public art installations. - Trek (Art for All Day): First-time request to fund a family cultural day featuring professional touring artists. - Four States Ag Learning Center: Director Kristen Larry requested $15,500 to create a permanent agricultural tourism experience open to walk-in family traffic. - City Beautiful Commission: Requested $17,000 to replace dead Magnolia trees, improve irrigation, and restore the Ensign Fountain. Key Outcomes - The commission reconciled total requests against the available budget through an averaging and rounding process. - A motion to approve the adjusted allocation package was made and seconded. - The final motion passed unanimously (6-0) on a roll call vote. - Total approved allocations amounted to $1,178,000.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Board of Directors met on October 19, 2026, at approximately 6 p.m. in the Municipal Building Boardroom. After roll call, Assistant Mayor Brewer and Directors Jewel, Roberts, and Harris were present. The board issued two proclamations, approved consent items, discussed and approved an airport demolition contract, and held a public hearing before placing liens on seven overgrown lots. No citizens requested to speak during the public comment portion of the meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the regular meeting on October 5, 2026, and the special called meeting on October 13, 2026. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the Central Records and Communication Manager to purchase replacement computers. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the city manager to enter into a contract with Dixie Overland Construction for the North Texarkana wastewater treatment plant expansion project. The consent items were approved together by roll call vote, with Assistant Mayor Brewer and Directors Jewel, Roberts, and Harris voting yes. Proclamations - Assistant Mayor Ulysses Brewer proclaimed October 18–24, 2026 as Black Restaurant Week, honoring black-owned restaurants and encouraging residents and visitors to support black-owned food establishments in Texarkana and surrounding areas during special menus, promotions, and experiences. - The board proclaimed October 23–31, 2026 as Red Ribbon Week under the 2026 national theme 'Make a Difference, Be a Hero, Stay Drug Free,' encouraging citizens, families, and businesses to display red ribbons and take part in drug-prevention education activities. - A proposed second proclamation related to November business appreciation was raised and then scratched before action was taken. Discussion Items - Airport demolition contract: The board pulled this item for questions. Board members asked why Francis Excavating LC's low bid of $60,000 was far below the second-lowest bid—nearly double that amount—and below the engineer's estimate. Staff responded that Garver Engineering reviewed the bids and found no errors, that Francis Excavating is experienced and capable, and that staff were confident the work would be completed. A board member also asked staff to contact the family of Lance Lord, a former tax assessor for 46 years, about interest in a sign at the site; staff agreed to handle that outreach. The board then adopted the resolution authorizing the Texarkana Regional Airport to accept the bid and enter into a contract for demolition of the juvenile detention center and tree removal. Bids had been opened on September 15, 2026; three qualified bids were received; the contract amount is $60,000 and will be paid from a state of Arkansas grant. The roll call vote carried with Assistant Mayor Brewer and Directors Jewel, Roberts, and Harris voting yes. - Liens on seven overgrown lots: The board conducted a public hearing on placing liens on seven overgrown lots. Staff said the properties were cleaned up by the city, similar to cleanups presented earlier this year. The board adopted a resolution placing liens on the properties. The resolution stated that notice was given under Arkansas Code § 14-54-904 more than 30 days before the October 19, 2026, 6 p.m. hearing. The lien for each parcel is the city's cleanup expense plus a 10% penalty, as listed in Exhibit A, and the amounts are certified to the Miller County, Arkansas tax collector to be placed on the tax books as delinquent taxes. Board Commentary - Director Harris clarified that board members serve pro bono and receive no salary. He said Arkansas state law based on the city's population prevents compensation for board service, and that any change would likely require voter approval. Key Outcomes - Proclaimed Black Restaurant Week and Red Ribbon Week. - Approved the consent agenda, including the minutes, computer purchase resolution, and wastewater treatment plant construction contract. - Approved the airport demolition contract with Francis Excavating LC for $60,000. - Placed liens on seven overgrown lots and certified the lien amounts to the Miller County tax collector. - Asked staff to follow up with Lance Lord's family about the sign before demolition. - Adjourned after a roll call vote.

The Texarkana, Arkansas City Council held a special called meeting on October 13, 2026, to consider an ordinance authorizing an exclusivity agreement with Heartland Water Partners, LLC, the Southwest Arkansas Water District, and other participants, and authorizing an application to the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) for out-of-state water transfer. The meeting included presentations, board discussion, public comments, and unanimous approval. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative of the Southwest Arkansas Water District clarified the district's role as a passthrough for collecting payments to the Corps of Engineers, noting the city is the actual seller of water. - Former mayor and former director (Mr. Gray) spoke in strong support, describing the water sale as a unique revenue opportunity similar to a successful deal in Grimes County, Texas, without requiring tax abatements or infrastructure investments. - Citizen Dennis Young read a statement strongly supporting the proposal, arguing the city faces a severe budgetary shortfall and that the water sale could bring $10 million or more annually for 40 years at zero cost to the city. - Citizen Shannon Rose criticized the board for dismissing Director Harris's questions and for lacking collaboration with Texarkana, Texas. She expressed opposition to selling water as a commodity and disappointment with the board's demeanor. Discussion Items - Tyler Richards, representing the administration, presented the project as a 10-year effort. He explained that the city already owns water rights to 99.8 million gallons per day (MGD) acquired in 2016 for $27 million, paid over 50 years at $541,000 annually. Currently, unused water is released downstream. The ordinance only authorizes an application to the ANRC; no sale is authorizes. The city would retain 40 MGD for its own needs. Heartland would pay a $550,000 reservation payment upon application submission, a second $550,000 upon ANRC approval, and a third upon legislative approval. If the application is denied, the city keeps the first payment. During construction of a pipeline, the city would receive about 50% of the sale price as reservation payments (estimated $10 million out of a potential $20 million total sale price). Construction estimated 12-18 months engineering plus 4 years construction. - Board members asked questions about exclusivity, ability to negotiate with others, opt-out clauses, lithium prospects, water measurement, and financial benefits to citizens. - Director Harris raised concerns about protecting citizens' interests, ensuring water bill reductions, and using proceeds for infrastructure rather than salaries. - Director Young asked about timeline: ANRC has 120 days to review; application must be submitted by November 2026 to stay within the legislative session. - Director Brewer answered questions, emphasizing the application process does not commit the city to a sale. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (6-0) to approve the ordinance on three readings: first reading automatic, second and third readings passed unanimously. - The council also voted unanimously to attach an emergency clause to the ordinance, making it effective immediately. - The ordinance authorizes the execution of the exclusivity agreement and submission of the application to the ANRC. - Next meeting scheduled for October 18, 2026.

The Texture County Board of Directors held a regular meeting on October 5, 2026. Key topics included a major water supply project presentation, approval of the TWU and airport budgets, a private club application, and a discussion on the meeting agenda formulation process. Public Comments and Testimony - Richard spoke in support of Issue 3 on the state ballot, urging the board to support the initiative. He cited successful economic development projects in the city funded by similar financial vehicles. - Mr. Montgomery expressed three concerns: the Sebra Street bridge repair timeline, the absence of lighting in Bramble Park (a recurring issue), and a misdirected streetlight at Ferguson and Garfield Streets. He stated the park is \"100% dark\". City Manager Tyler stated the park lighting would be explored for inclusion in the budget. - An unidentified resident complained about excessive noise from semi-truck Jake brakes on the interstate between Jefferson and Fairgrounds Park, requesting a sign or ordinance. The City Manager agreed to look into the matter and contact the district highway representative. - A public hearing was held for the Byrne JAG grant; no public questions were raised. Discussion Items Millwood Lake Water Supply Project Presentation - City Manager Tyler presented a project to sell excess water rights from Millwood Lake. The city holds 150 million gallons a day (MGD) in rights, while current demand is 7 MGD. The last 100 MGD of rights cost the city $540,000 per year regardless of use. - Proposal: Sell up to 110 MGD to Heartland Water Partners for use in Texas. Heartland would finance the pipeline and intake upgrades at no cost to the city. The city would retain 40 MGD, exceeding projected 2050 demand by 4.3 times. - Financials: Potential annual revenue of $16 to 20 million. Includes $500,000 reservation payments upon application and state approval. - Environmental Review: A study by Spheros Environmental found no significant impact to the lake or downstream releases. The water currently flows unused into the Gulf of Mexico. - Timeline: Application to ANRC by end of October. Legislative approval anticipated March/April 2027. A special called meeting is tentatively planned for October 13, 2026, to approve the authorizing resolution. - Director Harris asked clarifying questions about the buyer and referenced a clause from the 2016 water rights contract regarding citizen benefit. The City Manager noted the revenue could offset future water rates but bond obligations prevent immediate rate reductions. TWU FY2027 Budget - Staff presented the budget. Highlights include the near-completion of the AMI project (95 percent, 13,539 meters installed), a proposed 1 percent salary increase for employees, and the elimination of 10 positions. The fund balance is projected to decrease from 125 to 77 days of reserves to fund infrastructure projects. - Director Harris raised concerns about explaining higher bills from the more accurate AMI meters to constituents. - Director Smith questioned the water loss rate; TWU reported system loss around 30 percent, which is below the state average. Airport FY2027 Budgets - Director Russ presented the capital and operations budgets. The O&M budget has a $1,017,523 deficit ($455,952 Arkansas side, $561,571 Texas side). The capital budget has a $472 deficit. - Metrics (August): Operations: 1,584. Enplanements: 2,852. Parking Revenue: $40,457. Rental Car Revenue: $35,615. Fuel Flowage: 46,565 gallons. - Progress on a MRO (expected 150-160 jobs by the end of the decade) and the Signature contract renewal (expires September 2027) were discussed. A rent study is currently underway. Ordinance on Meeting Agenda Formulation (Item 11) - Director Harris sponsored an ordinance to remove the requirement for a second board member endorsement to overcome a city manager\'s denial of a board member\'s agenda item. He argued elected officials should not have to \"jump through hoops\" to place items for constituents. - City Manager and City Attorney Josh stated the issue has been a lack of sufficient information to draft legal ordinances, not a desire to block items. They noted a prior item from Harris could not be drafted due to insufficient information. - The ordinance was tabled (Motion passed 5-1) pending inclusion of a vetting clause requiring review by the city attorney. Consent Calendar - Items 3 (Minutes from September 21) and 4 (Detention Basin Contract) were approved. - Item 5 (Change Order 2 for Street Rehab) was removed at Director Harris\'s request for discussion. It was later approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Private Club Approval (Salty Pilot): Second and third reading of the ordinance granting prerequisite municipal approval passed unanimously (7-0). - TWU Budget: Resolution approving the FY2027 budget passed unanimously (7-0). - Airport Budgets: Capital and Operations budgets approved unanimously (7-0). - Byrne JAG Grant: Resolution approved. City share ($14,748) will be used for body armor (7-0). - Agenda Formulation Ordinance: Tabled (5-1) pending further revision by the city attorney. - Board Commentary: City Manager Tyler was asked to explore housing grants through ATC OG, arrange a meeting with Union Pacific Railroad, and provide information on the National Night Out event locations. - Next Meeting: Regular meeting scheduled for Monday, October 19, 2026.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Advertising and Promotion (A&P) Commission met on September 22, 2026. Commissioners Jewel, Dodson, Scott, and Brewer were present; Commissioner Meals was absent. City Manager Tyler led discussions on a downtown cleanup proposal, delinquent A&P tax collections, and the creation of a full-time A&P Executive Director position. Discussion Items Downtown Cleanup Proposal: Staff presented the sole bid (U.S. Lawns, $32,800.49 annually) received for an RFP to maintain the downtown entertainment district. The proposed scope included mowing, trimming, blowing, litter pickup, edging, and weed control, but at lower frequencies than requested in the RFP. Commissioners debated the primary need: some argued for a focus on general litter pickup and trash can emptying on Broad Street (the main pedestrian corridor), while others stressed the need for comprehensive landscaping of planters, including replacing dead trees and seasonal flowers. City Manager Tyler agreed to have U.S. Lawns provide itemized pricing per frequency and to potentially re-scope the RFP to attract bidders specializing in litter removal versus landscape maintenance. Delinquent A&P Tax Enforcement: Staff presented an ordinance change that would tie delinquent A&P tax payments to the revocation of a business's Certificate of Occupancy (CO). A review of an Attorney General opinion suggested this link is likely unenforceable, as COs are tied to building safety, not tax status. The alternative of creating a separate \"A&P Permit\" was discussed, the revocation of which would mandate a legal enforcement mechanism. It was noted that A&P tax collections for the current fiscal year are $65,986 behind the budgeted estimate of $958,966. The commission directed staff to research successful enforcement models in peer Arkansas cities (e.g., Fayetteville, Hot Springs) and recommended inviting delinquent business owners to a meeting as a final good-faith effort before pursuing harsher penalties. A&P Executive Director Position: City Manager Tyler announced he can no longer manage A&P duties in addition to his city manager role and formally requested the commission hire a dedicated director. Research presented indicated an average salary of $75,000–$80,000 for similar positions in similar-sized Arkansas cities, with a total annual cost (including benefits) estimated at $125,000–$135,000. The commission debated whether to partner with the Chamber of Commerce, but decided the position required full-time dedication to A&P. The commission opted to begin with a standard local advertisement instead of immediately hiring a recruiting firm. Key Outcomes - Downtown Cleanup: No action taken. Staff directed to obtain a revised, itemized proposal from U.S. Lawns for a potentially narrowed scope (e.g., litter pickup and trash receptacle service only) or to re-issue the RFP for a revised scope. - A&P Tax Enforcement: No action taken. Staff to continue legal research and arrange a meeting with delinquent taxpayers before implementing new penalties. - A&P Executive Director: Motion passed unanimously to advertise the position. Minimum qualifications set at a bachelor's degree in marketing or a related field and three years of marketing experience. Timeline established: applications accepted until October 23, 2026; commission to select interviewees by November 5, 2026; interviews scheduled for mid-November; projected start date of January 4, 2027.

The Texarkana Board of Directors met on September 22, 2026, with Acting Mayor Danny Jewell presiding after the Mayor and Assistant Mayor were absent. Four members were present. Items 4, 5, and 6 (TWU budget and airport budget) were pulled from the agenda at the start of the meeting due to the absence of key members. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of the rescheduled regular meeting on September 8, 2026. - Adopted a resolution to reschedule Board of Directors meetings in 2027 that conflict with holidays. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute a contract with WSB LLC for the predictive LSW model project. Public Comments & Testimony - Brandon Norman addressed the Board regarding a citation he received for abandoning a stray puppy. He explained that on September 16, 2026, he found a stray puppy in his yard, contacted the Animal Care and Adoption Center, and brought the puppy to the facility but was turned away after failing to provide a physical ID. He was later cited. Board members expressed strong concern and frustration, with Director Harris calling the situation ridiculous and suggesting the citation should be withdrawn. The City Manager stated he would investigate the matter, speak with shelter employees, and contact Mr. Norman. Discussion Items - Private Club Application (The Salty Pilot LLC): The Board conducted the first reading of an ordinance granting prerequisite municipal approval for a private club application at 2905 Arkansas Boulevard. Because only four members were present, the Board could not pass the emergency clause or proceed to a second reading. The item will be taken up at the next meeting on October 5, 2026. - Bridge on SIBA and Washington Street: Director Harris inquired about the status of the bridge closed by ARDOT. The City Manager reported that ARDOT does not project construction for at least another 18 months. The city is exploring demolishing the bridge and installing a temporary crossing at its own expense, pending resolution of reimbursement questions with ARDOT. - Housing Initiatives: Director Harris discussed a new federal housing bill providing over $200 million annually and advocated for a housing study and hiring a housing coordinator. The City Manager agreed that a housing study is a priority for the upcoming budget and noted that grant funds could eventually cover such a position. Key Outcomes - The Board unanimously approved all consent agenda items. - The private club ordinance will return for a second reading and potential passage at the October 5, 2026, meeting. - The City Manager will investigate the citation issued to Brandon Norman and report back to the Board. - The City Manager will continue working with ARDOT on the bridge and pursue a housing study. - Director Brewer's Ward 4 meeting was announced for Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Recreation Center.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Historic District Commission met on September 16, 2026, at 14:30:41 UTC. Seven members were present and no members were absent; no conflicts of interest or ex parte communications were declared. No written agenda or minutes were provided with the source materials, so this summary reflects the raw transcript. The commission approved its summarized minutes and considered a certificate of appropriateness for Moonbrook, a counseling and holistic health facility, before tabling it because the applicant was not present. Consent Calendar - Adoption of summarized minutes: Approved as written by voice vote after a motion and a second. Public Comments & Testimony - Frances Brooks, 415 Pecan Street (adjacent property owner): Expressed concern about the original proposal’s community garden and greenhouse, saying those elements could attract homeless people to the area. She said she was glad those elements had been removed. She described the planned garden as “real lovely” and supported beautifying the lot, but she worried about homeless people using benches, lighting being too bright or poorly placed, long-term maintenance if the business closes, and the effect on her ability to sell her home. She said she had lived next to the property for 25 years and already dealt with homeless-related issues in the area. She also favored a see-through white fence over a tall privacy fence. Discussion Items - Certificate of appropriateness for Moonbrook (Jessica Kennington, owner, absent): The request was to (1) add shade trees, (2) upgrade landscaping, (3) add benches, (4) add a pondless water feature, (5) add a flagstone walk path, (6) add a fence to the area, and (7) add lighting to the building. The proposal involved a meditation garden next to the building. The commission reviewed a diagram and discussed fence height, style, and color; city rules requiring at least four feet in front and no more than eight feet on the sides and rear; the desirability of a white fence that can be seen through; the limited deterrent effect of any fence; and the absence of specified lighting locations. The garden was described as being for Ms. Kennington’s clients only. A commissioner also indicated a suggestion could be sent to the applicant to consider a darker-colored fence that might suit the mid-century building, while another commissioner noted that white fencing fits the area’s Victorian-style homes. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: The summarized minutes were adopted as written by voice vote. - Moonbrook request tabled: The commission voted by voice vote to table the entire certificate of appropriateness until Ms. Kennington can attend a future meeting to answer questions. A letter was to be sent to her; the chair indicated the suggestion about a darker fence color could be included. - Historic Preservation Awards: The awards were tentatively scheduled for October 14, 2026. - Adjournment: After no further business, the commission voted to adjourn.

The Texas County, Arkansas Planning Commission held its regular meeting on September 9, 2026, chaired by Chairman Neal. Six of seven members were present: Stephen Cross, Anita Pickett, Dr. Hickerson, Chris Owens, Corey Mobbs, and Chairman Neal; Jason Dupree was absent. The meeting covered a honorary street naming request, two conditional use permit requests that were tabled, one for keeping chickens, one for keeping cats, and a rezoning request. Consent Calendar - Adoption of Minutes: The summarized minutes from the previous meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote (6-0). Discussion Items - Honorary Street Naming – Turner Family: A request by Julian E. Turner, Sr. to designate 15th Street between Ash and County in honor of the Turner family. Ricky Jones, representing Mr. Turner, read a letter detailing the family's long-standing presence and contributions to the community. After discussion, the commission clarified that the honorary signs would be placed at the corners of East 15th & Beach and East 14th & Beach. The request was approved unanimously (6-0). No further board approval is required. - Conditional Use Permit – 411 East 7th (Bobby Hamilton): A request to convert the property at 411 East 7th to an apartment. The applicant was not present, and commissioners had questions. A motion to table the item passed unanimously (6-0). - Conditional Use Permit – 714 Law (Bobby Hamilton): A request to convert the property at 714 Law (the former Village Station club) to a single-family residence. The applicant was not present. A motion to table the item passed unanimously (6-0). - Conditional Use Permit – Chickens at 5006 East 9th (Raquel Tuzanya): A request to keep chickens on a property zoned R1. The applicant stated she wanted 9-12 chickens for personal eggs. One opposition was received concerning noise, but the opponent did not speak. The commission approved the permit for up to 12 chickens (hens only, no roosters) by a vote of 6-0. Animal Services Director Lenore T. confirmed the enclosure requirements would be enforced separately. - Conditional Use Permit – Cats at 1706 Pecan (Deborah and Paul Snyder): A request to keep more than four cats (allowed with a special permit from Animal Services). Deborah Snyder explained she had previously taken in stray litters and now keeps 12 indoor cats, all spayed/neutered and vetted. One neighbor opposed, concerned about the prior larger number. Animal Services Director Lenore testified that the property was in good condition and that the 12 cat limit would be enforced with follow-up inspections. The commission approved the permit for 12 cats (6-0). - Rezoning Request – 523 East 33rd (Derek Strickland): A request to rezone two parcels (0.66 and 0.93 acres) from R3 (low-density residential) to R4 (medium-density residential) to allow multifamily housing. Agent Brian Henry stated the owner is considering a four-plex or duplexes; further site plan and fire department approval would be needed. One opposition was received but the opponent was not present. The commission approved the rezoning by a vote of 5-1, with Corey Mobbs voting no. The rezoning will require final approval by the Board of Directors at its first meeting in October 2026. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved (voice vote, 6-0). - Honorary Street Naming (Turner Family) approved (6-0). - Conditional Use Permits for 411 East 7th and 714 Law (Bobby Hamilton) tabled (6-0). - Conditional Use Permit for Chickens (Raquel Tuzanya) approved for up to 12 hens (6-0). - Conditional Use Permit for Cats (Deborah Snyder) approved for 12 cats (6-0). - Rezoning (Derek Strickland) approved (5-1); to be forwarded to the Board of Directors. - Meeting adjourned after completing the agenda.