Forrest City, Arkansas Development News
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City Council July 14, 2026
Published: Jul 14, 2026
Fire Chief Reports on Run Volume, Structure Fires, and Billing for Out-of-Town Services
The Fire Chief reported on the department's activity, noting 546 runs so far this year, including approximately 40 structure fires. Medical calls and interstate incidents remain prevalent. The department has collected $26,000 in out-of-town building fees, with an additional $45,000 billed but unpaid, not including recent interstate runs. The Chief also mentioned a recent 8-hour grain rescue and a house fire.
City Council Approves Fund Bills Amidst Budgetary Concerns and Staffing Challenges
The council reviewed and approved various fund bills, including General Fund bills totaling $163.86, Street Fund bills of $15,458.66, Solid Waste Fund bills of $21,166, and Water Bills amounting to $77,959.56. The City Manager's report indicated that while sanitation and street departments have some financial flexibility, the general fund is strained, particularly by police and fire department costs. The report also noted that revenue from sources like the sports complex and parks is minimal, and the Civic Center does not generate enough revenue to cover its costs. The need for raises for city employees was emphasized due to low salaries causing staff turnover, with proposals to be made for the next budget cycle.
Water Department Addresses Leak Backlog, Aging Infrastructure, and Urgent System Needs
During the department head quarterly reports, the Water Manager provided an update on water leaks, highlighting 793 work orders with 132 leaks remaining. He detailed the operational challenges, including aging infrastructure like galvanized service lines, and the process for prioritizing and repairing leaks. The report also touched upon the water softening project, the ADEQ response, and the urgent need for funding to expand water sources due to a failing well system. The manager explained the necessity of replacing high-service pumps at Plant One as an emergency measure. Discussions also covered the potential for rate increases and the requirement to maintain a 5% reserve fund.
Forest City Council Approves Water Meter Protection Ordinance and Addresses Urgent Water System Needs
The City Council discussed and approved the third reading of an ordinance regarding water meter ownership, protection, damages, and tampering. The ordinance aims to protect city-owned water metering equipment, ensure accurate water measurement, maintain system integrity, and assign responsibility for damage or tampering. It also approved a resolution authorizing the mayor and water manager to execute documents for funding administered by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission for improvements to the water utility system. Additionally, the council discussed significant issues within the water department, including numerous water leaks, the need for line replacement, and the impending failure of water sources, necessitating urgent action and potential emergency funding for pump replacements.
Police Chief Reports on Gunfire Incidents, Stolen Vehicles, and Staffing Shortages
The Police Chief reported on recent public safety incidents, including a high volume of gunfire incidents (over 70 in 90 days) leading to felony arrests and positive outcomes in solving a store murder due to shell casing analysis. The department has collected over 21 stolen guns and recovered over 26 stolen cars in the last 90 days, many of which were stolen from other areas and found stripped. A new camera system is on order and expected to be installed soon to aid in investigations. The department is currently understaffed by four employees, leading to overtime, and is seeking qualified applicants.
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The Forrest City News archive
City Council July 14, 2026
Happy 250th America! Thank you to the Arkansas Air National Guard for the awesome flyover. If you have any pictures...
Happy 250th America! Thank you to the Arkansas Air National Guard for the awesome flyover. If you have any pictures...
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City Council Meeting May 12, 2026
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