Batesville, Arkansas Development News
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City Council Meeting July 14
Published: Jul 17, 2026
Chloe Massie Honored for Leadership of Inaugural Jeff Owens Project
Chloe Massie was recognized for her exceptional work organizing the inaugural Jeff Owens Project, an event that honors the legacy of the late Parks Director Jeff Owens. The event, which occurred over a year ago and is anticipated to grow, featured approximately 30 riders and was considered a success. Chloe Massie was presented with a certificate of appreciation for her vision, leadership, and dedication in making the project a reality. The event celebrated Owens' passion for cycling, his love for Batesville, and his service to the community. [cite: 645-682]
Batesville Hosts Successful America 250 Block Party
The City of Batesville hosted an America 250 block party on July 2nd in the city hall parking lot, serving approximately 225 hot dogs, chips, drinks, and popsicles. The event was a success, with thanks extended to city administration, public works, police, fire departments, and animal control. The block party was supported by WRD Entertainment for music and live coverage, and sponsored by First Community Bank and Citizens Bank for food. The mayor expressed hope for a similar tradition next year, potentially with an even larger turnout. [cite: 696-731]
Multiple Infrastructure Projects Underway: Parks, Water Plant, Drainage, and Traffic Systems
Damon Johnson provided updates on several projects. The boat dock is back in operation, though its placement is monitored due to the river's current level (10 ft), with a risk of damage if the river rises above 12 ft. The Parks project is progressing well, with on-schedule work including topsoil laying and site work. Relocation of power for the splash pad area is expected within two weeks, followed by work on the splash pad and inclusive playground. The water plant project above Cheney Drive is also moving well, with buildings starting to be constructed. However, the intake project at the river is facing delays of approximately two months due to high water depth and groundwater issues impacting the H-pile foundations. Solutions are being worked on, and this issue could impact the rest of the plant if not resolved soon. Additionally, the city is addressing water leaks due to the hot, dry ground and has a sewer rehab project that is temporarily on hiatus. A drainage project on West Side, funded by a FEMA grant, is expected to kick off in six to eight weeks, aiming to alleviate flash flooding issues. Issues with new stoplight equipment at St. Louis and Harrison are being addressed by a troubleshooter focusing on grounding problems. The city also has a grant for three additional lighted crosswalks on the Greenway Trail and plans to upgrade three intersections with sonar and camera systems that can communicate with each other, potentially improving traffic flow and safety. Preemption devices for first responders are also being incorporated. Lastly, the street department is replacing a large, long-repaired drainage culvert on Hawkins Street to help with flash flooding, with upstream development including stormwater retention planned. [cite: 371-626]
Public Works Maintenance Shop Achieves Significant Savings and Expands Capabilities
Billy Quarter presented an update on the Public Works Maintenance Shop, which began operations in April 2023 and became fully functional by January 2024. The shop has five employees: one assistant, one receptionist (Chris), three full-time mechanics (Jamie Morgan, Don Martin, John Rich), and one part-time mechanic (Alan Jackson). Alan Jackson is certified in several fields and is pursuing Emergency Vehicle Technician certification, currently handling about 90% of service jobs and tire repairs. The shop has successfully implemented an up-to-date maintenance program across departments, reducing challenges and improving vehicle upkeep. They have also upgraded the shop with an 18,000lb lift capable of servicing large fire and trash trucks, as well as a four-post lift for one-ton vehicles and larger. The report includes a breakdown of labor hours and estimated costs for maintenance performed for various departments from 2024-2026, showing a total labor cost savings of $1,185,850 over three years by performing work in-house. The shop has also expanded with two additional shops to house water construction equipment. [cite: 134-358]
Police Department Updates: Grant Submissions, IKEA Investigator Position, and Evidence Room Improvements
Police Chief John Scarbor reported on the department's activities, including the submission of a grant application for equipment upgrades totaling over $500,000, for which they are awaiting federal approval. The department is also working on a two-year grant for an investigator position to specifically address IKEA-related cases, which would provide relief to the current investigator who is handling a high volume of cases. Additionally, a grant will cover the costs of modifications to the evidence room, such as adding a divider, to improve its functionality and compliance with accreditation standards. The Chief also discussed new federal laws requiring digital platforms to report suspicious activity, which has increased the flow of cases to the department, requiring significant time for investigation and case resolution. The department is also working on resolving ongoing electrical problems with Dodge vehicles. [cite: 42-127]
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City Council Meeting June 23
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