Highfill Highlight
February 18, 2026
The Highfill City Council held a Special Meeting on February 17, 2026, to discuss development, infrastructure, and community matters.
Approval of Minutes
Council approved the minutes from the following prior meetings:
Public Comment
The Mayor welcomed community members to share their thoughts and asked for public comment. No attendees spoke during this period, and the Mayor then closed the public comment session, ensuring everyone had the opportunity to participate.
Ordinances
Ordinance 2026-6 Re-Zoning certain lands within the City of Highfill pursuant to application of Kenneth H. Insco and Alice J. Insco and for other purposes
- Council considered Ordinance 2026-6 regarding rezoning approximately 90 acres requested by Kenneth H. Insco and Alice J. Insco.
- A motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and waive full readings of all ordinances on the agenda.
- Roll call vote: all members present voted yes. Motion passed.
Presentation
- A representative for the applicants explained the request to rezone the property from rural residential (RR) to general commercial (C-2).
- The property is located along Highway 264 and is surrounded primarily by commercial uses, with some nearby rural-residential land.
- The proposal was stated to be consistent with the City’s future land use plans prioritizing commercial development along highway corridors.
Council & Public Discussion
- Council members discussed surrounding zoning, adjacent property uses, and alignment with long-term planning goals.
- One public comment expressed support for thoughtful transitions between zoning types when moving from rural-residential to commercial or industrial areas.
- An adjacent property owner spoke in favor of the rezoning, stating it aligns with the City’s planning direction.
Action Taken
- A motion was made and seconded to approve Ordinance 2026-6.
- Roll call vote: all members present voted yes.
- Result: Ordinance 2026-6 approved; rezoning adopted.
View Ordinance 2026-6 here.
Ordinance 2026-7 Adopting the creation of the industrial development authority
The Mayor postponed reading Ordinance 2026-7 to allow a presentation from a representative of the Northwest Arkansas Regional Council regarding Industrial Development Authorities (IDAs) and related financing tools.
Presentation Summary
- The speaker explained that recent state legislation expanded access for Arkansas cities and counties to form or participate in IDAs, which had previously been limited.
- IDAs can:
- Issue industrial revenue bonds financed by companies rather than taxpayers.
- Acquire, lease, and develop land for economic development purposes.
- Provide flexible tools for attracting industry and expanding local tax bases.
- The expansion law was designed to give communities more options to shape economic growth according to their needs.
Click here to view the IDA Presentation.
Key Discussion Points
- Council discussed whether to create a local IDA, join a regional authority, or contract for services.
- The Mayor noted the City currently lacks the staffing and resources to operate a standalone authority.
- Regional participation was suggested as a potentially more practical option.
- Officials emphasized the importance of understanding all tools and legal pathways before deciding.
- It was also noted that upcoming infrastructure development and airport proximity may create opportunities for strategic industrial growth.
Action Taken
- Council agreed additional time was needed to review information and ask questions.
- A motion was made and seconded to table Ordinance 2026-7 for further study.
- Roll call vote: all members present voted yes.
- Result: Ordinance tabled for future consideration.
View tabled ordinance here.
Resolutions
Resolution 2026-4 Authorizing the City of Highfill, Arkansas to enter into a contract with Nabholz Construction, Inc. pursuant to its bid for the Lift Station No. 1 improvements project
Council considered a resolution authorizing the City to enter into a contract for improvements to Lift Station No. 1 located near N. Hutchinson Rd. and Hwy. 12.
Project Overview
- Bids were opened Feb. 5, 2026, with five contractors submitting proposals.
- The lowest qualified bid was $1,067,828 from Nabholz Construction, Inc.
- The total estimated project budget (including contingency, engineering, and administrative costs) is just over $1.3 million.
- The project has been funded through savings set aside over several years.
Timeline & Logistics
- Bid pricing is valid for 60 days.
- If approved, contracts would be processed in about 30 days, with construction expected to begin roughly 30 days after that.
- Some equipment has extended delivery timelines:
- Generator: ~52 weeks
- Control panel: ~40 weeks
- Construction can proceed while waiting on these components, and the station can operate temporarily using backup power if needed.
Additional Notes
- State approvals were secured after months of coordination with regulators.
- The project supports upcoming development by allowing new connections and generating future impact and connection fee revenue.
- The City currently has access to a temporary portable generator that can support operations if needed before permanent equipment arrives.
Action Taken
- Motion made and seconded to approve Resolution 2026-4.
- Roll call vote: all members present voted yes.
- Result: Resolution approved; contract authorized.
View ESI letter of recommendation and bid tabulation.
View Resolution 2026-4 here.
Resolution 2026-5 Authorizing acquisition of land by donation from Silver Meadow’s Property Owners’ Association for use as a city park
Council considered a resolution authorizing the City to accept a donation of land from the Silver Meadows Property Owners Association (POA) for use as a future city park.
Discussion Summary
- The title company requested a formal resolution from the City to proceed.
- Additional documentation is required from the POA, including:
- Proof the POA is a legally existing entity
- A copy of governing/operating documents
- A POA resolution authorizing transfer of the property
- Identification of authorized signers
- Coordination between the City and POA representatives is ongoing to complete all required title documentation.
Action Taken
- A motion was made and seconded to approve Resolution 2026-5.
- Roll call vote: all members present voted yes.
- Result: Resolution approved; City authorized to proceed with acceptance of the donated property pending title requirements.
View Resolution 2026-5 here.
Resolution 2026-6 Amending budget Resolution No. 38-2024 of the City of Highfill, Arkansas regarding certain items of income and expenditure; and for other purposes
Council approved Resolution 2026-6, amending the city’s 2025 year-end budget. This resolution finalizes all income and expenditures from the previous year, including tax revenues, utility funds, and federal ARPA funds received for the NACA water line project.
City staff explained that the resolution captures all accounts, savings set aside for future projects, and special revenue streams such as road taxes and court revenues. While the overall budget shows a positive balance, this reflects careful planning and allocation for ongoing and upcoming city projects.
Council members reviewed the amendment, asked clarifying questions about account allocations, and confirmed that all funds were properly managed and accounted for. The resolution passed unanimously, ensuring transparency and accurate reporting of the City’s 2025 finances.
This approval demonstrates the City’s commitment to responsible financial management and keeps residents informed about how tax dollars and project funds are used to support Highfill’s growth and infrastructure improvements.
View Resolution 2026-6 here.
Resolution 2026-7 Filling by appointment, position 2 of the Highfill Parks Advisory Committee
Council approved Resolution 2026-7, appointing Delaney Babcock to Position 2 on the Highfill Parks Advisory Committee (HPAC). Delaney applied, interviewed, and was unanimously recommended by the Council to join the committee.
Delaney introduced herself to the Council, sharing that she lives in the Gailey Hollow area. Council members expressed appreciation for her willingness to serve, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and encouraging other residents to participate in city committees.
This appointment strengthens HPAC’s capacity to guide parks planning and community projects, ensuring that resident voices help shape the City’s recreational spaces and programs. The motion passed unanimously, welcoming Delaney as a new member of the committee.
View Resolution 2026-7 here.
Resolution 2026-8 and Resolution 2026-9 Making Appointment to the City of Highfill, Arkansas Planning Commission
The Council approved Resolution 2026-8 and Resolution 2026-9, reappointing Jamie Redding and Cameron Wolf to the City of Highfill Planning Commission.
Jamie’s term was renewed in recognition of his consistent contributions, thoughtful questions, and dedication to guiding planning commission discussions. Cameron Wolf, a City officer, was also reappointed, bringing both insight and a steady presence to meetings that occasionally involve complex or sensitive topics.
Council members emphasized the importance of having engaged, experienced residents on the Planning Commission, noting that both appointees contribute to well-informed decisions that help shape Highfill’s growth, development, and community planning.
The motions for both appointments passed unanimously, ensuring that the Planning Commission continues to benefit from experienced and committed members.
View Resolution 2026-8 and Resolution 2026-9.
Approval of January 2026 Financial Report and 2025 City Asset List
The Council reviewed and approved the City of Highfill’s financial reports for January 2026, covering revenue and expenditures.
City staff explained that some January entries, like sales tax collections, reflect payments for the prior month. For example, taxes received in January are based on December 2025 activity, while February collections will cover January. Staff also clarified that road taxes and other restricted funds are deposited directly into dedicated accounts to ensure proper use.
The Council reviewed the 2025 city’s asset list, which includes all equipment and property valued over $2,000. Department heads confirmed accuracy, and staff noted that depreciation for city assets is minimal since the City is not a taxable entity; values remain at their recorded cost.
Council members asked questions to understand timing of tax revenues and asset reporting. Staff provided context for sales, liquor, and property tax schedules to ensure transparency and clear understanding of the City’s financial position.
Following discussion, the Council unanimously approved the January 2026 financial reports and the annual asset list, affirming Highfill’s commitment to careful financial oversight, transparency, and accountability to the community.
Department Updates & Community Services Highlights
Department heads shared updates on recent events and ongoing city operations:
- Snowstorm Response: The city successfully navigated the Snowstorm of 2026, with department heads conducting a post-storm review to identify improvements for the future. Residents were thanked for their patience during snow removal, and communication via social media was highlighted as an effective way to keep the community informed.
- Water Department: The city installed a new generator from Arkansas Real Water to maintain water services during potential power outages. Frozen water meters from prolonged cold were repaired, and a significant leak in Silver Meadows was fixed, saving an estimated 40,000 gallons per day.
- Roads & Drainage: Crews cleared debris from construction sites and ditches, preventing flooding in Mason Valley and other areas. Department heads emphasized the importance of residents reporting issues to ensure timely response. The city continues to monitor drainage for new subdivisions to prevent future problems.
- Public Safety: The Fire Department reminded residents of the upcoming chili supper. The Police Department shared reports on patrols, citations, and warnings in high-traffic residential areas. The department discussed options to reduce speeding, including additional radar signs, temporary speed trailers, and truck traffic signage to divert heavy vehicles away from neighborhoods.
- Police Policy & Accreditation: The Police Department is preparing a 92-policy manual for council review as part of achieving accreditation through the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police. Policies are legally reviewed and designed to protect the city and its residents. Approval of these policies is anticipated in the coming months, marking a major step toward recognized excellence in municipal law enforcement.
City leadership encouraged residents to report concerns directly, reinforcing Highfill’s commitment to open communication, safety, and proactive community services.
Mayor’s Report
Chili Supper & Community Building Update
This Saturday, our Chili Supper is happening, and we can’t wait to see you there! A surprise 60th birthday party is also scheduled at the community building at the same time. To accommodate both events, the Council Chambers will be open for the party, ensuring everyone has a place to gather.
🍲 Check out the flyer here:
We encourage everyone to come enjoy great chili, community conversation, and delicious pies. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors and support our community spirit.
Republic Services Trash Collection
We’re holding Republic Services accountable and improving trash collection citywide. After raising concerns, the company now responds within minutes to reports of missed pickups.
The current trash contract, originally renewed in 2020, didn’t fully reflect the city’s growth. A new contract will include clear expectations and accountability so our citizens receive the service they pay for, including areas with dirt roads or higher demand.
We want you to know your concerns matter. The city actively monitors service, and we will continue to push for reliable, consistent trash collection for all residents.
City Financials & Overpayments
The city recently discovered unpaid taxes from the 3rd quarter of 2020, from before Tiffany joined our staff and before the current Mayor took office. Tiffany acted promptly to resolve the issue, and all past-due taxes—$4,597.66 from a September 2020 payroll filing (Form 941, covering federal, Social Security, and Medicare obligations)—have now been paid in full, bring the city fully up to date.
This ensures our financial records are accurate and reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to transparency and responsible fiscal management.
Council Discussion
Alderman Summitt, Chairperson of the Highfill Parks Advisory Committee, provided updates on ongoing park improvements:
- The playground chain-link fence has been replaced with a new black fence; a contractor walk-through is scheduled to ensure everything is in order.
- Tree work continues: three to four trees were removed, smaller trees replaced, and additional trees are being planned.
- The city is obtaining bids to expand the existing basketball court to full half-court size, with potential additions for pickleball and parking improvements, reflecting a renewed focus on park maintenance.
Council members received materials for the engineering selection process for park and subdivision drainage plan reviews. Members will review them at home and return with their top three selections. Approval of the top three firms—Crafton Tull, Bureau Vertias, and CEI—was made to begin water and drainage studies, ensuring that future subdivisions meet proper standards.
The Planning Commission will meet on Tuesday, February 24; open forum on the land use map, providing another opportunity for community input before final adjustments are made. Efforts continue to advertise and engage the public through social media and signage, keeping the community informed and involved.
Council members were reminded to review materials thoroughly to make informed decisions, emphasizing transparency and thoughtful progress.
Looking Ahead – Meetings & Planning
- Planning Commission Meeting: Tuesday, February 24th
- Next City Council Meeting: Tuesday, March 10th
We invite the community to stay engaged, ask questions, and attend meetings. Your participation helps the city make better decisions for everyone.
Watch the Meeting
Missed the Special City Council Meeting? Don’t worry! You can view the full video or listen to the audio recording to catch every discussion, vote, and update.
Watching the meeting gives residents a firsthand look at how decisions are made, how the Council prioritizes the City’s finances, and how your local government plans for future growth, infrastructure, and community services. Stay informed, stay engaged, and see your City in action.
For additional details, supporting documents, or updates on upcoming meetings and community projects, visit the City of Highfill’s official website [link].
Stay connected, ask questions, and share your feedback — your voice matters in shaping the future of Highfill.
It’s My Town!