Jonesboro · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Jonesboro public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Gates and signage at Craighead Forest Park
Council has discussed gates at Craighead Forest for years — Council Member John Street has pushed it for nine years. Gates are on a new top-10 capital wish list, and new signage about no smoking and ranger contact is coming in weeks.
Craighead Forest Park playground replacement grant
The city's most-visited playground is 21 years old and wearing out. A $1 million state grant could fund a new inclusive playground and chemical-free splash pad, but requires a ~$500,000 match — raising questions about how that competes with East Jonesboro Park funding. The Rotary Club may lead a capital campaign to help.
Joe Mack Campbell Park expansion grant
The parks department will pursue a $1.61 million federal grant to buy about 38 acres, add walking and biking trails, ADA parking and eventually more recreation facilities — half the cost covered by a local match of land donations, private donations and city funds.
Parks sponsorships and marketing package
Council members flagged that the city is accepting sponsorships carried over from City Stars without actively recruiting new ones. Parks staff said a sponsorship pricing package is being prepared and a part-time marketing specialist is being hired.
Parks rental fee increases
Parks fees haven't been updated since 2017, and proposed hikes include raising Earl Bell Community Center rentals from about $700 to $1,000. One council member worried some jumps may be too steep for families and suggested smaller incremental increases.
Turtle Creek Wetland Partnership outdoor classroom
A new partnership with the University of Arkansas would plan boardwalks, expanded wetlands, and aquatic research at the underused Turtle Creek detention pond, aimed at school groups and visitors. Nettleton's STEM school has already been contacted, and Keep Jonesboro Beautiful pushed for the project.
Marion Berry Parkway Multiuse Trail
The trail is fully designed and funded, but the city is waiting on ARDOT authorization to advertise for bids. Construction is now estimated at $1.7 million — above the original $1.5 million budget — so a deductive alternate will be used to keep it under budget.
Higginbottom Trail design contract
The city is hiring a multistate firm with a Paragould office to design the Higginbottom Trail, kicking off a project expected to reach construction around this time next year. Officials noted they're deliberately diversifying the engineering firms the city hires.
Parks transparency on tournament and revenue data
Dr. Anthony Coleman pressed for year-over-year tournament and revenue comparisons, noting past bookkeeping was 'shaky' and had drawn FBI recommendations. The parks director agreed to provide what he can.