Highfill Highlights
Posted August 14, 2026
The Highfill City Council met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, to consider city planning, development, public safety, finances, and community matters.
Highfill Vision Plan Adopted
The City Council approved Ordinance No. 2026-13, adopting the Highfill Vision Plan. The plan includes:
- Future Land Use Plan and Map
- Master Street Plan
- Community Facilities Plan for future fire facilities
- Active transportation planning
The plan provides a framework for Highfill’s continued growth while recognizing that the City will continue to update its planning and development regulations as conditions change.
The Council and planning staff emphasized the importance of public input throughout the planning process. The City held multiple public meetings and incorporated community feedback into the plan.
The Council also discussed the next steps, including continued work on zoning and subdivision regulations, potential planned unit development standards, street and parking requirements, sidewalks and active transportation, and future fire facility planning.
Read the full [Highfill Vision Plan] for the adopted Future Land Use Plan and Map, Master Street Plan, and Community Facilities Plan.
Rezoning Appeal Approved
The Council approved Ordinance No. 2026-14, granting an appeal by WJP Investments LLC regarding the rezoning of approximately five acres from Rural Residential (RR) to R-1 Residential.
Community Development staff reviewed the request in relation to the newly approved Future Land Use Map, surrounding zoning, and existing development. Staff determined that the proposed R-1 zoning is consistent with the City’s future land use designation and surrounding development pattern.
The Council’s approval of the rezoning does not authorize construction or approve a subdivision, drainage plan, or development plans. Any future development must proceed through the City’s normal review process and comply with applicable subdivision regulations, drainage requirements, infrastructure standards, and building codes.
New Fire Engine Financing Approved
The Council approved the use of $100,000 from City savings to supplement the down payment for a new fire engine.
The City previously authorized the purchase after an existing fire engine experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure while responding to a call. The new engine is currently expected to be completed in late September, with final inspection anticipated in October.
The Council also approved Resolution No. 2026-25, authorizing financing for the remaining balance of the fire engine. The financing structure is intended to keep annual payments within the revenue available through the City’s fire equipment funding.
July Financial Report Approved
The Council approved the July 2026 financial report.
During the financial discussion, staff reviewed year-over-year revenue changes, including increases in city sales tax, property tax, county sales tax, and franchise fee revenue.
Fire Department Fundraising Supports Equipment
The Fire Department reported another successful community barbecue fundraiser. The department sold 290 chicken quarters in approximately 75 minutes and raised more than $4,000 from the event.
Combined fundraising from the department’s chili supper and barbecue has generated more than $15,000 this year. The department plans to use fundraising proceeds to support equipment needs, including equipment that can assist with vehicle extrication as traffic increases along the interstate.
Parks Committee Explores New Community Events
The Parks Committee discussed the possibility of bringing a recurring vendor market to Highfill City Park.
The proposed event could feature local vendors and take place monthly. City staff will continue exploring the opportunity and its requirements.
The Council also discussed a potential Oktoberfest-style event at the park. The City Attorney will review the City’s current park ordinance and determine what options may be available.
Roadside Vegetation and Maintenance
The Council discussed vegetation growing into roadways and limiting roadway clearance in some areas.
Public Works is working to identify equipment or contractors capable of trimming vegetation along roadways, including areas where vegetation has reduced available travel space.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for upcoming City meetings and events:
- Water & Sewer Committee: Monday, August 24, 2026, at 5:00 PM — Council Chambers
- Planning Commission: No meeting will be held in August due to a lack of agenda items
- City Council: Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM — Council Chambers
- National Night Out: Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM — City Park
- Christmas in the Park: Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 5:30 PM — City Park
Continuing to Plan for Highfill’s Future
The August meeting reflected the City’s continued focus on managing rapid growth while planning for future infrastructure, public safety, transportation, development, and community amenities.
The newly adopted Highfill Vision Plan provides a foundation for that work, while the Council and City staff continue developing the policies and regulations needed to support Highfill’s future.
Transparency & Public Information
The City of Highfill is committed to keeping residents informed.
To review meeting recordings, agendas, minutes, ordinances, resolutions, financial reports, and other public documents, visit:
City Documents & Public Records
https://highfillarkansas.gov/city-documents/
For city news, project updates, event announcements, and meeting reminders:
City Website
https://highfillarkansas.gov/
Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/HighfillAR/
Thank you for staying engaged in the future of Highfill.
It’s My Town!