Texarkana · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Texarkana public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Alleged police investigation misconduct and request for independent probe
A former police sergeant told the Board his termination followed an internal affairs investigation with missing evidence, unrecorded interviews, racial disparate treatment, and alleged pre-hearing contact between the police chief and the Civil Service Commission. He asked the Board to order an independent investigation; the Board took no action.
Liens on seven overgrown lots
The city's environmental department mowed 43 overgrown lots and is now placing liens to recover costs, which get collected ahead of property taxes.
Truck jake-brake noise on the interstate
A resident asked the city to consider an ordinance or signage banning loud truck engine brakes between Jefferson and Fairgrounds Park. Staff will look into what the city can do and contact the state highway district.
Byrne JAG grant for police and Miller County
The police department gets $14,748 of a $22,122 federal grant for body armor; Miller County's sheriff's office gets $7,374 for radios.
Stray animal intake and abandonment citation policy
A resident was cited $1,000 for abandonment after trying to surrender a stray puppy he found, and directors openly questioned the shelter's handling. The city manager promised to investigate and respond.
Demolished 110 East Broad Street — delinquent tax certification
The city tore down the long-troubled former dealership at 110 East Broad at a cost of $630,000, but state law caps the tax-book lien at $15,000. The rest will be pursued through invoicing.
Tri-State industrial noise dispute
A resident says a nearby industrial operation runs loud equipment from 6 a.m. to midnight, ruining quality of life for elderly homeowners. City officials say past sound readings were under the ordinance limit and the city attorney warns that unilaterally changing the rules would likely lose in court and cost taxpayers.
Water park safety accountability
Director Harris, referencing a child's death at the water park last year, asked the city attorney whether an ordinance could require the private water park to file monthly safety reports on lifeguards, training and incidents. The city attorney said it's likely possible and agreed to research it.
Police Leadership Appointment
Texarkana, Arkansas has a new interim police chief: Jordan is taking the top job for now. It’s a leadership shake-up worth watching if you care about public safety and how the department is run.
Fire Chief Appointment
Texarkana, Arkansas has a new fire chief, which means new leadership for the department that handles fires and emergency calls. The source doesn’t detail the appointee’s name, background, or specific plans, so the practical impact will depend on how the chief runs the department. Why care? Leadership changes can affect response times, staffing, and how fire services are managed.