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.
Deteriorating skate park concrete
Skate Jonesboro says the skatepark's newer concrete is failing after winter storms, leaving unsafe holes and rocks, and wants quick repairs this year — not next year's budget.
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.
New Disciple Drive park playground contracts
The city is buying playground equipment and synthetic turf for a new park on Disciple Drive — about $1.4 million total across two contracts. One council member pushed back because the council never formally reviewed the park's design plans before the spending requests.