Public Meetings - Texarkana, Arkansas

The city council reconvened into regular session following a brief executive session to consider reappointments to the library board. The meeting consisted primarily of the adoption of a resolution appointing two members to the library board, followed by general discussion and adjournment. Discussion Items - Library Board Reappointments: The city attorney read a resolution noting vacancies on the library board and proposing the appointments of Virginia Jones and Juni Young for a term running from January 15, 2026, through 2032. The resolution as read indicated a passage date of January 20, 2025, which appears inconsistent with the meeting date (January 21, 2026). No discussion or questions were raised regarding the content of the resolution. Key Outcomes - Approval of Library Board Appointments: The council voted unanimously to approve the resolution appointing Virginia Jones and Juni Young to the library board. The roll call vote was as follows: - Director Roberts: Yes - Director Harris: Yes - Director Holobush: Yes - Assistant Mayor Brewer: Yes - Director Jules: Yes - Mayor Brown: Yes The resolution passed with six affirmative votes and no opposition. - Adjournment: A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and passed by roll call vote with all directors voting yes. Note: The transcript includes a discrepancy regarding the date of the resolution (January 20, 2025) versus the actual meeting date (January 21, 2026). The minutes or agenda may clarify this, but they were not provided.

The Board of Directors of Texas County, Arkansas, held its regular meeting on January 21, 2026. The agenda included public comments, approval of consent items, discussion and votes on airport and generator engineering contracts, acceptance of the 2024 audit report, a tax levy ordinance with an emergency clause, an honorary street renaming, and a new ordinance regulating truck stops. Board members also provided commentary on ward needs and future economic development initiatives. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 5, 2026 rescheduled meeting. - Adopted resolutions authorizing the purchase of a 2025 Ford F250 SD from Government by Board McLarty Ford, a dump truck from Arc Latex RTEX Truck Center, and a Kubota Mini Excavator from River Valley Tractor. (Items 1, 4, 5, 6) Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Miller (owner, E Street Pawn and Jewelry, College Hill) stated he was not asking for a higher standard for the Ward II Director but for the same standard of fairness, transparency, and accountability as every citizen. He described being blocked on the director’s personal Facebook page, which he argued creates unequal access to official communications. He asked the board to amend bylaws to address the use of personal social media for official city business and to ensure constituents are not blocked from viewing or responding to discussions on public matters. He provided documentation of his business’s contributions, including raising over $50,000 for nonprofits, and expressed willingness to work with the director for the betterment of College Hill. In subsequent back-and-forth, Director Harris stated he blocked Mr. Miller due to name-calling, adding Mr. Miller could take the matter to court. - Lee Dale Robinson (resident, 2100 East 11th Street) complained that Tri-State’s auto-crushing operation from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, six days a week, creates excessive noise in his neighborhood. He requested the board help enforce the noise ordinance or change the permitted operating hours. He noted that noise levels drop when someone from the city visits and urged unannounced inspections. He said earlier attempts to change the PUD failed because the city could not unilaterally alter the contract. Director Harris asked about external noise studies, and city officials agreed to obtain quotes for an independent study. - Charles Loki thanked the board for the honorary street renaming for Staff Sergeant Denver Bull Randleman, sharing a personal connection: his great uncle served with the 101st Airborne and was killed on D-Day plus six, and he himself served with the 502nd PIR. He expressed hope that honoring such men would reduce division. Discussion Items Airport MRO Site Engineering Contract (Item 2) - The airport executive director presented a resolution authorizing an engineering services agreement with McClellan Consulting Engineers for site development at the MRO project adjacent to Runway 13/31. Total project cost: $2,512,842.87, 95% funded by a TxDOT grant, with a 5% local match ($56,300.24 from Texas County, AR; $69,341.90 from Texas City, TX) from previously approved capital funds. Director Harris questioned a mileage calculation (42,000 miles) in the proposal, suggesting miscalculations may signal other issues. He expressed concern about the firm’s fees and the frequency of trips from Little Rock. The airport director committed to reviewing specific figures. The resolution passed (roll call: Director Roberts yes, Director Jewel yes, Mayor Brown yes; other directors’ votes not explicitly recorded in the transcript). Emergency Generator Design Contract (Item 3) - The city manager sought approval to contract with A.L. Franks Engineering for design of an emergency generator at City Hall. The fee is $20,500, funded through an Arkansas Division of Emergency Management grant and capital funds (city match $53,687.50). Director Harris questioned why a licensed electrician could not perform the work; staff explained that the scope includes not just the generator but also underground utilities and a full site plan requiring an engineer. The resolution passed unanimously. 2024 Audit Report (Item 7) - David Coleman of Forbus Mazars presented the annual audit. Highlights: the city’s net position increased by $18.4 million year over year, primarily from a $13 million increase in airport investments and a $6–7 million reduction in pension liabilities. The general fund unassigned fund balance stood at 102 operating days, nearly double the 60-day benchmark recommended by GFOA. No material weaknesses or significant deficiencies were identified. The audit received an unmodified (clean) opinion on financial statements and state compliance. Director Harris asked about timelines for correcting deficiencies; the auditor responded that none were noted. The audit was accepted unanimously. 2026 Tax Levy Ordinance (Item 8) - Ordinance levying property taxes for 2026, including an increase in the debt service millage from 2.5 to 5 mills to support the street bond. The ordinance required three readings and an emergency clause to reduce investor risk. All three readings and the adoption were unanimous. The emergency clause was also attached unanimously. Honorary Street Renaming – Staff Sergeant Denver Bull Randleman (Item 9) - A resolution to ceremonially designate East Ninth Street from Locust Street to the city limits as “Staff Sergeant Denver Bull Randleman Memorial Highway.” Mayor emphasized that this is honorary and does not change addresses. The Planning Commission had recommended approval. Director Harris suggested a future ceremony and possibly a public showing of the Band of Brothers series. The resolution passed unanimously. Truck Stop Regulation Ordinance (Item 10) - Ordinance to regulate full-service truck stops within the mixed-use highway zone. Key provisions: applies only to facilities with overnight parking, showers, minor repair, truck scales, etc.; requires a site plan, traffic impact study, drainage study, lighting plan, security camera plan, and driveway permit; inoperable vehicles must be removed within two weeks; lighting must be directed away from residential areas; location considerations include proximity to other truck stops and adjacent zoning. The Flying J will be rezoned to conform. Director Roberts asked about economic impact; no estimate was available. Director Harris sought clarification on other truck parking lots. The ordinance passed on second and third readings with Director Jewel voting no, but on final adoption she voted yes, making the final vote unanimous. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (minutes, two vehicle purchases, one equipment purchase) approved unanimously. - Airport engineering resolution adopted; Director Harris expressed concerns but the resolution passed. - Generator engineering resolution adopted unanimously. - 2024 audit report accepted as presented. - 2026 tax levy ordinance adopted with emergency clause (unanimous). - Honorary street naming resolution adopted unanimously. - Truck stop ordinance adopted (final vote 6–0; Director Jewel voted no on second/third readings but yes on adoption). - Board commentary: Director Harris urged residents to bring forward requests for street improvements (citing Hay, Mitchell, Baden streets) and to focus on community needs. Director Roberts suggested exploring a TIF district for College Hill; the mayor cautioned that such districts take years to produce funds. Assistant Mayor Brewer reported on a defensive driving program and Senate Bill 647 (economic development districts), directing staff to investigate. The board also went into executive session to make library board reappointments.

The Texas County Arkansas Planning Commission convened on January 14, 2026, with Chairman Neal presiding. Four of seven members formed a quorum. The meeting covered the adoption of prior minutes, a memorial street renaming, and a contested rezoning request for a planned unit development. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the December 9, 2025 meeting were approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony Honorary Street Naming (Item 3) - Tom Orenberg (VFW Post 4562) presented a request to name a section of East Ninth Street after Staff Sergeant Denver "Bull" Randleman of Easy Company, 101st Airborne, depicted in the miniseries Band of Brothers. No public opposition was voiced. Rezoning Request for Duplexes (Item 4: C3 to PUD) - Proponents: Developer Matthew Cowert (4717 Boyd Road) and contractor Colin Kuhn (6211 Tennessee Road) advocated for the project, emphasizing a $1.3 million investment into Ward 1 and the removal of 40 loads of debris from the site. They stated a professional management company (Tri-Realty Group) would be used for strict tenant screening and maintenance. - Opponents: Several local residents spoke against the proposal. - Karen Rhodes (3500 East St) argued the PUD would change the area's rural character, create "attractive nuisance" liability issues for neighboring ponds, and potentially devalue properties. - Jerry Rhodes (3500 East St) called the project an "imposition of the many for the sake of the few" and voiced concerns about septic and drainage runoff. - Michael Giles (4500 Old Blackman Ferry) questioned the feasibility of five septic systems on five acres regarding well and groundwater safety. - Martin Thomas (3011 Lynn Ferry Road) raised liability and trespassing concerns for his pond property based on previous experiences with renters. - Linda Crawford (51 Team Country Road) expressed fear that this was the "tip of the spear" for much larger developments. - Terry Roberts (Ward 1 City Director) firmly opposed the plan, citing over 31 constituent calls and past problems with rental communities in the ward, including frequent needs for police, fire, and code enforcement. - Melvin Padgett (3620 Old Blackman Ferry) stated the development was inappropriate for the single-family neighborhood. Discussion Items Memorial Street Naming - Orenberg detailed Randleman's military service, including D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge, and his quiet post-war life in Texarkana. Commissioners expressed full support for the honorary designation. Rezoning Denial - Commissioners weighed the developer's investment goals against the residents' concerns about density, infrastructure strain, liability, and loss of rural character. Colin Kuhn addressed septic concerns by stating the State had approved the plans following percolation tests, but opposition remained strong regarding the density and type of housing. The commission found the PUD incompatible with the existing low-density residential area. Key Outcomes - Street Naming: Approved (4-0). Motion by Chris Owens. The commission voted to recommend honoring Staff Sergeant Denver Bull Randleman. - Rezoning (Item 4): Denied (4-0). A motion to deny the rezoning of 3411 East Street carried unanimously. Commissioners Hickerson, Owens, Mobbs, and Neal voted in favor of denial. The applicant was advised they could appeal the decision to the City Board of Directors.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Board of Directors held their regular meeting on January6, 2026 (the meeting occurred on January5, 2026, local time, but is recorded as January6 per official records). Key actions included the election of an assistant mayor, adoption of rules of procedure, approval of a major water/sewer extension contract, rezoning of two properties, and amendments to the entertainment district ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the December16, 2025 rescheduled regular meeting were approved. - Personnel Policy Committee Reappointments: Directors Derek Cornett, Tracy Lee, and Jenny Nornes were reappointed to terms expiring January6, 2028. Public Comments & Testimony - David Peavy (105 Olive, downtown) expressed concern that citizens are not given adequate opportunity to speak on agenda items before board votes, particularly on consent agenda items. He argued that the city's rules define 'action' as a vote and criticized the practice of limiting public comment to specified times. Mayor Brown and several directors responded, defending the current process as providing ample opportunity through citizen communication time and board member outreach. Discussion Items - Rules of Order and Procedure (Item5): The board debated a resolution adopting the rules of order and procedure as required by Arkansas Code. Director Jewell raised concerns that the consent agenda does not allow the public to speak on items before a vote. The board discussed whether current procedures adequately provide public input. A motion to adopt passed 7-0. (Note: Director Brewer later attempted to rescind his vote but was not permitted.) - Water/Sewer Extension Contract – RBIS LLC (Item6): A resolution authorizing the city manager to enter into a $3,315,344 contract with RBIS LLC for the Ready Site water and sewer extension project. Director Jewell expressed concern about the large discrepancy between the low bid and the next bid ($950,000), potential change orders, and lack of public input. City Manager Gary G. explained that the contractor is reputable and 'hungry' for work, and that the project is funded by bonds. Change orders over $35,000 require board approval. The resolution passed unanimously (7-0). - Memorandum of Understanding with Airport (Item7): Authorized a pass-Through billing arrangement for police services at the Texarkana Regional Airport. The airport will reimburse the city $20.11 per hour for specialized police officers and lease a police vehicle for $1,200/month. Passed unanimously. - Rezoning700 East Broad (Item8): Rezoned the former Stone Studio building from Warehouse (W) to Limited Manufacturing (M1) for a custom cabinet and woodworking shop. No opposition. Passed three readings unanimously. - Rezoning East Ninth Street Parcel (Item9): Rezoned a VFW-area parcel from Single-Family Residential (R2) to Open Display Commercial (C3) for a farm store. No opposition. Passed three readings unanimously. - Entertainment District Amendments (Item10): An ordinance to ban consumption of alcohol purchased outside the district and to remove Rock House Liquor from the district boundaries. The action follows a joint workshop with the Planning Commission. Debate focused on enforcement and whether removing Rock House Liquor would solve tailgate party issues. The ordinance passed second and third readings with Director Jewell opposing, but the final adoption vote was 7-0. An emergency clause was attached (5-2, with Directors Harris and Jewell opposed). Key Outcomes - Assistant Mayor: Director Ulysses Brewer was unanimously elected as assistant mayor for a one-year term. - Service Awards: Recognized employees for10–25 years of service. - Youth Recognition: Bright Futures youth group from TASD recognized. - Historic District Commission: Jeff Brown and Michael Hendricks were reappointed to three-year terms. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for Tuesday, January20, 2026, due to the federal holiday on January19. - Board Commentary: Director Jewell raised water billing complaints from constituents; City Manager Gary G. explained new, more accurate meters may cause higher bills and offered to investigate individual cases. Director Brewer requested a workshop on alternative housing types. Director Jewell asked about the Seba Street bridge closure; the city is awaiting an update from ARDOT and exploring temporary options. - Amendments: Director Brewer attempted to rescind his vote on the rules of order but was not allowed as the item had already passed.

The Texarkana Advertising and Promotion (AMP) Commission met on December 17, 2025, to discuss a television channel donation proposal, a tourism marketing contract extension, funding for the Big Damn Water Park, and a proposed bond project for a youth sports complex. The meeting featured presentations from three external parties and included multiple votes on funding allocations. The commission ultimately extended the marketing contract one year, denied 2026 funding for the water park, and declined to proceed with a $7 million bond project. Public Comments & Testimony - Weston Crennish, owner/operator of a local low-power television station, proposed donating one of his seven broadcast channels to the city for revenue generation, noting the station is upgrading to 5G broadcasting enabling direct-to-cellphone transmission within a 50-mile radius. He stated the channel could be used to promote city events, offer free advertising to tax-paying businesses, and support a housing renovation program funded through Affordable Housing Act grants. Crennish emphasized he was not asking for an immediate decision and that the proposal had been given to Tyler (staff) the previous week. The commission took no action on the proposal. Discussion Items 1. Tourism Marketing Contract Extension – Danny Hamblett of Frawl Brand Kind presented a year-end recap covering the agency's work since the contract began in June 2024. Highlights included a new website launched in July, 3.9 million total impressions across Meta and Google ads, geofencing using videography from the prior year, updated visitor guides distributed statewide, and a new partner guide for tax-paying businesses. The agency proposed extending the contract, which runs through December 2025, for up to two years at the same rates. Commissioner discussion focused on the appropriate extension length. Several members expressed a preference for one year to allow other agencies an opportunity to bid in the future, while noting they did not want a gap in coverage. Tyler clarified the contract allows 60-day termination notice. A motion to extend for one year was made and seconded. 2. Big Damn Water Park Funding – Mr. Blevins of P23 Consulting presented an update on the water park, owned by Bank of U Springs after a foreclosure approximately two years ago. He reported season pass sales growth from approximately 1,000 in 2023 to 5,411 in 2024 to nearly 10,000 in 2025, though total attendance in 2025 was about 60,000 due to rain. Digital metrics included 68,000 website visitors (top cities: Dallas, Shreveport, Little Rock, Houston), 7,200 unique website visitors, and 5 million social media interactions, with 70% of impressions originating outside Texarkana. Blevins outlined three options: (1) continue the original 20-year agreement (approximately 8 years remaining), in which case he would consider buying the park from the bank; (2) a two-year renewal at the same $250,000 annual support level; or (3) a one-year agreement. He indicated the bank may sell or scrap the park if support does not continue. Budget analysis showed the AMP's 2026 fund balance projected at approximately $331,000 with a policy requiring a $150,000 minimum reserve, leaving roughly $181,000 available. A motion to provide no subsidy to the water park for 2026 was made, seconded, and carried 3–2 (Mills, Jewel, Dotson in favor; Homes, Brewer opposed). After the bond discussion, the commission briefly considered revisiting this vote. Several members expressed concern about the park's maintenance regressing but also about fairness to other entities that were denied funding. No motion to reconsider succeeded, and the commission suggested the operator could reapply in the fall. 3. Bond Project for Ed World Park Sports Complex – Tyler presented a proposal to issue approximately $700,000 per year for 15 years (total $7 million) to convert the natural grass ball fields at Ed World Park to turf, replicating the Texas-side Swanger Sports Complex project. He cited the $70 billion sports tourism industry and provided economic impact studies from the Swanger complex and a World Series event hosted in summer 2025 (5,300 visits). Commissioners expressed strong reservations about obligating the majority of AMP's budget for 15 years, the lack of hotels and restaurants on the Arkansas side to capture visitor spending, and the desire to retain flexibility for smaller, targeted tourism investments such as concerts and festivals. Consensus was reached not to move forward with the bond project at this time. Key Outcomes - Tourism Marketing Contract: Extended one year through December 2026 at the same rates. Motion carried unanimously (all commissioners ayes). - Big Damn Water Park Funding: No AMP funding allocated for 2026. Motion for no subsidy carried 3–2 (Mills, Jewel, Dotson in favor; Homes, Brewer opposed). The commission did not successfully reconsider this vote before adjournment. - Bond Project: No formal vote taken; the commission reached consensus not to proceed with the $7 million sports complex bond project. - The television channel proposal was acknowledged but no action was taken.

The Board of Directors for the City of Texas County, Arkansas, convened on December 17, 2025, to address public concerns, hear presentations, and vote on key financial and administrative actions. Major actions included the approval of the FY 2026 city budget, an increase to the Arkansas pension plan, a new fee schedule for police training facilities, and an engineering contract for the first phase of the 2025 street bond projects. Citizens voiced strong concerns about dangerous dogs and an unresolved commercial truck issue. (Note: Transcript internal documents date the resolutions as December 16, 2025). Public Comments & Testimony - Freight Truck Issue (Miss Scamble/Gamble): A resident expressed frustration over a freight truck repeatedly parking on Ferguson Street. She stated that she had contacted code enforcement, the police (who did not respond), and the city manager’s office twice over several weeks without resolution. The city manager acknowledged the report and stated he had directed officers to look for the truck. - Dangerous Dog Attacks (Tony, College Hill Resident): A resident spoke on behalf of concerned citizens in the College Hill neighborhood regarding two pit bulls that repeatedly escaped their yard. He detailed attacks on his mother’s dog, noted that neighbors including elderly retirees and a former police captain’s widow had been threatened, and raised safety concerns for children at College Elementary School. The speaker criticized the enforcement process, stating that animal control requires photographic evidence even when multiple eyewitnesses are available, and urged the board to revamp ordinances to allow for the confiscation of dangerous animals. Board members discussed collaborating witness statements to create a stronger protocol for enforcement. Presentations & Reports - Military and Veteran Friendly Community Proclamation: Mayor Alan Brown read a joint proclamation with Texarkana, Texas, declaring December 8, 2025, as “United States Armed Forces Day” and committing to becoming a premier military and veteran-friendly community. State Representative Dolly and chamber intern Hannah Jarrett spoke in support of the initiative. - 2025 Street Bond Update (City Manager Tyler): An update was provided on the street bond timeline. An engineering contract for the first phase of projects (24th, 48th, and Oak Streets) was presented for approval. The South State Line road project will be coordinated with the Texas side to be done under their maintenance contracts. A tax levy is expected in January, bonds to be issued in May, and construction is anticipated to begin in May or June 2026. Drainage projects are planned as summer projects and will be contracted out. Consent Calendar - The board approved a consent agenda consisting of the approval of minutes from the rescheduled December 2nd meeting, a resolution authorizing change orders for a 24-inch transmission main project, and a resolution authorizing a contract with Plumber and Associates for a sewer collection system master plan. Discussion Items - Street Bond Engineering Contract (Director Harris Pulls Item): Director Harris requested the removal of the engineering contract with A.L. Franks Engineering from the consent agenda. He questioned whether the work could be spread among multiple firms. The city manager explained the RFQ process and stated that both A.L. Franks and Spears Engineering would be utilized. The resolution, valued at $295,640 for the design of East 24th, East 48th, and Oak Streets, was approved via roll call vote. - Pension/Retirement Plan Increase: Gary presented a request to grant a one-time 10% increase for all employees in the Arkansas retirement plan and an ongoing 3% COLA for retirees in the TWU Arkansas Retirement Plan. The plan has 29 participants and a current market value of $3.2 million. The increase represents a $297,590 liability, but the plan would still retain over $2.1 million after all benefits are paid. The board approved the resolution unanimously. - Police Department Training Fee Schedule: The Police Chief introduced an ordinance to establish fees for the use of the department’s training center and firing range. Revenue will be placed in a specific project code to fund further training improvements, with the goal of creating a self-sustaining revenue stream. The ordinance was read three times and passed with an emergency clause. - Fiscal Year 2026 Budget: Finance Director Sheena Washington and the City Manager presented the final budget. Revenues and expenditures are balanced at $64 million. The budget hinges on a $1.8 million surplus carried over from 2025. The city is absorbing the full cost of health insurance increases ($420,000). A new High Deductible Health Plan with an HSA is being offered. Sales tax revenues are projected to decrease by 2%. Five police officer positions have been frozen in the budget. Inmate housing costs at the Miller County jail are increasing from $50 to $55 per bed. Director Harris raised strong objections regarding the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, arguing they should be prioritized for housing studies, sidewalks, and infrastructure improvements in low-to-moderate-income neighborhoods rather than for city buildings like the recreation center and Habitat for Humanity projects. He also pressed for sidewalk projects on 9th Street and Division Street and criticized the slow pace of projects in poorer neighborhoods. Mayor Brown cautioned the board, describing the budget as the “slimmest” in his seven years on the board and operating with “no margin for error.” He stated that if revenues do not increase significantly in 2026, the city could operate at a deficit and dip below the required 60-day fund balance. Despite the concerns, the budget resolution was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - FY 2026 Budget Approved: The $64 million operating budget for the City of Texas County, Arkansas, was adopted. - Pension Increase Adopted: A 10% one-time increase for current employees and a 3% COLA for retirees in the TWU Arkansas pension plan were approved. - Police Training Fees Established: An ordinance creating fees for police training facilities was passed with an emergency clause. - Street Bond Engineering Contract Awarded: A.L. Franks Engineering was contracted for $295,640 to design the first street bond projects. - Dog Ordinance Review: The city manager committed to reviewing animal control protocols regarding witness statements and evidentiary requirements with the police and animal control departments. - Next Meeting: The board announced its next regular meeting will be on Monday, January 5, 2026.

The regular meeting of the Texas County Arkansas Planning Commission was called to order on December 10, 2025. The commission addressed four main agenda items: a revision to the truck stop ordinance to require security cameras, a rezoning request for a proposed duplex development, an accessory dwelling ordinance to comply with state law, and revisions to the entertainment district for public safety. Public comments were heard on the rezoning request and entertainment district changes. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the previous meeting was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Tracy Harris (representing the heirs of the property at 3417 East Street) stated they are not opposed to redevelopment but requested the rezoning vote be delayed until a preliminary plat is available, as they lack sufficient information to assess impacts on their property's sale and future use. They expressed a preference for both rezoning and plat review to occur in January. - Doug Rhodes (3500 East Street) expressed concerns about disharmony between the proposed PUD (multi-family) and adjacent R1 single-family zoning, citing potential negative effects on property values and differences in property maintenance between owner-occupied and rental properties. Discussion Items - Item 3: Truck Stop Ordinance Revision – The Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department (TAPD) requested adding a requirement for a security camera plan to the draft truck stop ordinance, which had not yet been sent to the Board of Directors. The commission approved the revision unanimously. - Item 4: Rezoning Request – Cohort Bat Investments requested rezoning 3411 East Street from C3 (Open Display Commercial) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to build five duplexes. The property currently has two buildings to be demolished. The applicant had submitted a site plan but not a preliminary plat, which they intend to bring in January. The developer stated the water line connection requires an ARDOT permit and perc tests are completed. After public comments requesting delay, the commission voted to table the rezoning request to the January meeting (unanimous). - Item 5: Accessory Dwelling Ordinance – Proposed by Planning and Zoning to comply with new state law requiring at least one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per single-family lot. Key provisions: ADUs must be no larger than 1,000 sq ft or 75% of primary dwelling (whichever is less); cannot require owner occupancy, family relationship, separate utility meters, or additional parking; cannot be in front or side yards; must meet building codes; homeowners’ association covenants may still prohibit them. The commission approved the ordinance unanimously, despite expressing dissatisfaction with the state mandate. - Item 6: Entertainment District Revisions – Proposed by the city manager and TAPD to improve public safety. Changes agreed upon at a joint workshop included: (1) banning consumption of alcohol purchased outside the district, (2) removing the block containing Rock House Liquor from the district to prevent buying alcohol there for immediate consumption, (3) restricting open drinking hours to 11 a.m. – midnight (previously 2 a.m.), and (4) requiring a review every six months. A property owner in the affected block (Colin Kuhn, 6211 Tennessee Road) raised concerns about his property sale being impacted. The commission agreed to modify the removal to only the Rock House Liquor lot rather than the entire block. The revised motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Truck stop ordinance revision (security cameras) approved. - Rezoning for 3411 East Street tabled to January 2026 meeting to allow submission of preliminary plat. - Accessory dwelling ordinance adopted to comply with Arkansas state law, effective upon County Board approval. - Entertainment district revisions approved with an edit to remove only the Rock House Liquor lot instead of the entire block. - Next meeting anticipated in January 2026.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Board of Directors held a regular meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2025. The meeting followed a workshop on the city's health insurance options. Key topics included citizen requests for a highway designation for a local WWII hero, concerns from the firefighter's union regarding health insurance premium increases, the adoption of a state-mandated ordinance on ward-based elections, and the annual property tax levy. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the November 17, 2025, regular meeting were approved. - A resolution authorizing the City Manager to purchase replacement computer hardware for the IT department was adopted. Both consent agenda items passed without opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Warrenberg spoke in favor of naming a section of Highway 82 the "Staff Sergeant Denver Bull Randleman Memorial Highway." He detailed Randleman's service with Easy Company during World War II, noted over 600 signatures collected in support, and described the designation as costing the city virtually nothing. Mayor Brown confirmed the paperwork is on his desk. A neighbor spoke in support, calling Randleman a "gentle giant" who never spoke of his heroics. - Daniel Fields, President of the Texarkana, Arkansas Firefighters Union, opposed the proposed health insurance premium increases. Representing 75% of fire department employees, he argued that premium increases without wage increases constitute a pay cut and harm morale and retention. Fields proposed offering employees a choice between a low-deductible plan and a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA). He highlighted a proposed $225 monthly increase for family coverage and expressed concern that the board's December 16 budget vote falls after the December 15 health marketplace open enrollment deadline. City Manager Tyler clarified that a life-changing event would qualify employees for a special enrollment period. Fields also requested the board consider contributing to retiree health coverage and cited statistics that firefighters are 10% more likely to get to cancer and 6.5 times more likely to die from a cardiac event than the general population. Discussion Items - Employee Service Awards: Christopher Esthus (Texarkana Police Department, 10 years) and Christopher Miller (Texarkana Works, 5 years) were recognized. - Overgrown Lots Liens: A public hearing was held on placing liens on 13 properties for the city's cost of removing overgrowth, trash, and debris, plus a 10% penalty. The resolution was adopted unanimously (7 votes in favor). - Ward-Based Election Ordinance (Act 283 of 2025): City Manager Tyler presented an ordinance required by the state for cities that elect board members by ward. Director Hollibush stated he had obtained conflicting information from the Municipal League indicating the ordinance did not apply to the city manager form of government. He expressed concern it could "open up the door for something else" and explicitly stated his intention to vote "present". The majority of the board, including Mayor Brown, argued the ordinance was an important formality affirming current practices. The ordinance passed all three readings and was adopted with an emergency clause attached. In a notable discrepancy within the source transcript, Director Hollibush declared his intent to vote present but was recorded as voting "Yes" when the roll was called. The final vote for adoption was 6 in favor and 1 present. - 2025 Tax Rate Ordinance: The board adopted the annual tax levy, maintaining the rates from the previous year: 5 mills for general purposes, 1 mill for the library, 1 mill for fire pensions, 1 mill for police pensions, and 2.5 mills for debt service. Staff clarified that the additional 2.5 mills from the recently passed street bond would not be included in this levy and would not appear on tax bills until 2027. The ordinance was adopted unanimously (7 votes in favor). - Meeting Schedule Change: The board voted to postpone the regular meeting from Monday, December 15, to Tuesday, December 16, 2025, due to the city's Christmas parade. Director Hollibush questioned why the conflict existed and requested an explanation from Main Street. The motion passed 7 votes in favor. Board Commentary and Staff Updates - Breakfast with Santa was announced for December 13 at the Recreation Center from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. - Director Hollibush requested updates on an ARDOT bridge study on CIBA/Washington Street, a damaged manhole cover awaiting FEMA reimbursement, and the timeline for a new pothole repair truck (approx. $400,000, expected delivery within a couple of months). City Manager Tyler committed to providing updates. - Director Harris inquired about chip sealing Ferguson Street (estimated cost $400,000–$500,000) and crack sealing on Dela Street. Tyler explained funding constraints and noted a budget workshop would provide further detail. - Staff confirmed that limbs on Preston Street had been removed as requested. - Tyler stated engineers are working on cost estimates and timelines for street bond projects. Funds are not expected to be available until late March or early April 2026. Regular updates on the bond's progress will be provided to the board. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved. - Property Liens: Liens on 13 overgrown lots were certified for collection as delinquent taxes (unanimous, 7-0). - Ward Election Ordinance: Adopted with an emergency clause (6-0-1, with Assistant Mayor Harris voting present; Director Hollibush declared an intent to vote present but was recorded as voting Yes in the roll call). - Tax Levy: 2025 property tax rates levied at existing millage rates (unanimous, 7-0). - Meeting Date: December board meeting rescheduled from Dec 15 to Dec 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM (unanimous, 7-0). - Future Action: Staff committed to providing the board with regular updates on street bond implementation, ARDOT bridge status, FEMA claims, and capital equipment.

The Texarkana Board of Directors held a regular meeting on November 18, 2025. The board adopted a seven-item consent agenda, approved a resolution to bridge a health insurance premium increase, granted a parking lot franchise, and tabled a proposed food truck ordinance amendment after hearing public comment and board debate. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of November 3, 2025. - Resolution declaring public works equipment surplus. - Resolution authorizing a contract for a 500,000-gallon elevated water storage tank (Lakewood Elevated Tank Project). - Resolution authorizing change orders for the Nick's Creek Sewer Improvements Project. - Resolution authorizing the purchase of emergency lighting for seven patrol vehicles and one K9 kennel. - Resolution authorizing the purchase of Motorola WatchGuard dash and rear seat cameras for seven patrol units. - Resolution authorizing a construction contract with Contact Contractors Inc. for the Bi-State Crime Lab and offices rebuild project. Public Comments & Testimony - Israel Gamble (611 Ferguson Street, College Hill) complained that a neighbor parks a loaded 18-wheeler flatbed truck on the residential street, blocking sightlines and creating a safety hazard. Mayor Brown and Director Harris confirmed the vehicle violates the commercial vehicle ordinance and stated code enforcement would be sent out to issue a citation. The city manager agreed to coordinate with the police chief on weekend enforcement. - Lydia Robertson (Mount Addition neighborhood) expressed frustration with her ward representative (Director Davis) over ongoing Tri-State noise and smell issues, accusing him of not addressing the neighborhood's complaints compared to other ward directors. She asked if she could call for his resignation if he does not step up. - Lamaria Blackwell (WC4, which has a contract with the city to promote Front Street) expressed concern about the proposed $50 temporary vending fee in the pending food truck ordinance. She stated that the new fee could hurt out-of-town vendors at their events, as they already pay a vending fee, and asked for clarification on its origin. - Freddie (local food truck owner, speaking during the food truck ordinance discussion) asked the board to align food truck operating hours with entertainment district venue hours (closing at 2 a.m.) rather than the proposed 10 p.m. restriction, stating that vendors pay taxes and should be allowed to serve customers while venues are open. Discussion Items - Item 8: Health Insurance Premium Increase Resolution. Sheena Brown (city finance) presented the 27% premium increase from the Municipal Health Benefit Fund (MHBF). The increase for employee-only coverage was $179.21 (to $841.71) and for employee-plus-family was $401.83 (to $1,887.33). The city’s loss ratio was 150% ($3 million in claims vs. $2 million in premiums). Director Harris and others questioned wellness programs and rising claims. The board unanimously approved a $52,452.83 payment to cover the increase for January 2026 to allow time to finalize the budget. - Item 9: David Boone Ministries Parking Lot Franchise. Tracy (Public Works) presented an ordinance granting a non-exclusive franchise to David Boone Ministries Inc. to use the public right-of-way at 1800 Dudley Street for a parking lot. Director Harris raised concerns about pre-existing drainage issues on the adjacent street. The ordinance was read three times and adopted unanimously with an emergency clause. - Item 10: Food Truck Ordinance Amendment. Roger Douglas (Public Works) proposed amendments to the 2018 ordinance to regulate individual mobile food vendors citywide, including a $50 temporary event fee, a 20-foot setback, and written property owner permission. Directors Holobush and Brewer raised concerns over fee structures, operating hours (7 a.m. to 10 p.m. or midnight with permission), and unclear language in the text. A motion to table the ordinance passed 4–3 (Directors Jewel, Smith, and Roberts opposed; Assistant Mayor Harris, Director Brewer, and Mayor Brown in favor). The board discussed holding a workshop before the next meeting to allow vendor input. Board of Directors Commentary - Director Harris delivered an extended critique of the city’s street bond allocation, alleging the $34,000 engineering study was biased against poorer communities. He listed over a dozen streets near churches in Wards 4 and 5 that received $0 in bond funding, contrasting them with streets in other wards. He stated that neighborhoods like College Hill and Carmichael Hill were not receiving fair treatment compared to others. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted unanimously. - Health insurance premium resolution adopted unanimously (6–0). - David Boone Ministries parking lot franchise adopted unanimously with emergency clause. - Food truck ordinance amendment tabled (4–3); a workshop was proposed before the next regular meeting. - Meeting adjourned.