Highfill Highlights
January 22, 2026
The Highfill City Council held a Special Meeting on January 21, 2026, to development and infrastructure matters impacting the community.
Approval of Minutes
Council approved the minutes from the following prior meetings:
- Special City Council Meeting – December 9, 2025
Ordinance 2026-1 – Geurtz Rezone
Council considered Ordinance 2026-1, a request to rezone the Geurtz property to R-1 Residential to align with surrounding zoning and allow for a potential residential subdivision.
The applicant’s engineer presented the request and described a concept plan of approximately 68 residential lots, with a density of about two units per acre, which is below the maximum allowed under R-1 zoning. The applicant stated that the project would extend existing water and sewer infrastructure, create a looped water system, provide two access points for fire safety, connect to Cowan Avenue and Center Street, and account for the site’s challenging topography, including gullies and ridgelines.
Council focused much of its discussion on stormwater drainage, existing flooding, road conditions, and infrastructure capacity. The engineer explained that future development would be required to include detention facilities designed to control runoff and maintain pre-development flow rates, in accordance with City standards.
City staff emphasized that rezoning approval does not authorize construction. Staff explained that any future subdivision would undergo full engineering review, including independent review of drainage and infrastructure plans. Staff stated that development proposals must demonstrate they do not increase downstream flooding impacts. Staff also confirmed that the City’s water and sewer systems have sufficient capacity to serve the site and that looping water lines would improve system reliability.
Members of the public provided extensive comment both in support of and in opposition to the rezoning. Supporters highlighted thoughtful design, lower density, preservation of natural features, and expanded utility connectivity. Residents opposed to the request shared concerns about frequent flooding, road access during storms, traffic, loss of rural character, and the potential for additional development to worsen existing conditions. Several residents shared personal experiences and documentation of flooding impacts.
Following public comment, Council discussed the item with a focus on flooding, road access, and ensuring infrastructure improvements occur before or alongside development. City staff and the engineer reiterated that future subdivision plans would require watershed-level drainage studies, floodplain compliance, required road improvements, and multiple layers of City approval.
Council voted to suspend the rules for all ordinances on the agenda to allow consideration in a single meeting and approved Ordinance 2026-1 by majority vote following a 2-2 tie, which was broken by the Mayor’s vote.
Council emphasized that the rezoning represents an initial step only. Any future development must meet all City regulations, complete detailed engineering review, and address infrastructure and drainage concerns before construction may proceed.
Ordinance 2026-2 Purchase of Air Packs and Related Equipment
Council considered Ordinance 2026-2, which authorizes the purchase of Scott X3 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) air packs and related equipment for the Highfill Fire Department. The ordinance also allows the City to waive competitive bidding requirements due to the emergency nature of the equipment and the limited availability of approved suppliers.
Fire Chief Wynne explained that the air packs are essential safety equipment used for structural firefighting and are being replaced through a phased-in plan rather than all at once. The proposed purchase continues that replacement schedule.
Chief Wynne stated that:
- The vendor is the sole authorized provider of this equipment in Arkansas and Oklahoma
- This purchase would replace part of the department’s remaining older SCBA units
- After this purchase, six additional units will still need replacement
- The department is in its second-to-last year of the current replacement cycle
Chief Wynne also explained the expected lifecycle of the equipment. SCBA bottles have a 15-year service life, and the department anticipates beginning the next replacement phase in approximately 10 years, allowing equipment to be rotated in smaller groups and avoiding large, one-time costs.
Council asked questions regarding the total number of remaining units and future replacement planning. Council members acknowledged the importance of maintaining firefighter safety while planning responsibly for long-term equipment needs.
Council voted to approve Ordinance 2026-2 and separately approved the emergency clause, allowing the purchase to proceed without delay.
Public Comment
Residents shared feedback on City communication, infrastructure, and recent improvements. One resident expressed concern about difficulty contacting City Council members through official email addresses. City leaders acknowledged recent technical and security issues affecting email access, apologized for the frustration, and committed to improving communication tools and accessibility for Council members and the public.
Residents also discussed road conditions, particularly gravel routes along Cowan Avenue and surrounding areas, and encouraged officials to experience daily travel conditions firsthand.
Another resident raised concerns about address changes affecting mortgage and insurance records. City staff directed the resident to planning and 911 addressing officials to help verify records and provide needed documentation.
Community members thanked the City for recent paving projects and supported reduced speed limits in residential areas. Staff confirmed a 20 mph speed limit on City streets, noted that updated signage is being ordered, and explained that county roads fall under county jurisdiction.
The Mayor closed public comment after all speakers were heard.
Highfill City Council Meeting Procedures
At the start of each year, the Highfill City Council reviews and approves the agenda format for upcoming meetings, ensuring transparency and consistency. During the January meeting, council members vote to continue with the same agenda structure used in prior years. This process allows the public to clearly follow discussions and decisions, promoting an open and organized approach to city business. The motion passed with a 4-1 vote.
Ordinance 2026-3 Evans/Gray Annexation
Council approved Ordinance 2026-3, officially annexing a small portion of property owned by Evans and Gray into the city limits. This area will be assigned to Ward 2 and will receive city services according to the approved schedule. The annexation ensures consistency for residents already near or partially in city limits and supports efficient service delivery. The motion passed unanimously, with all council members voting yes.
Ordinance 2026-4 Patterson and JP Ventures Annexation
Council approved Ordinance 2026-4, annexing property owned by Patterson and JP Ventures LLC into the city limits. This area, located off Hendrix Road and Reams Road, will be assigned to Ward 2 and receive city services according to the approved schedule. The annexation was fully petitioned by the landowners and aligns with adjacent city properties, ensuring no isolated parcels are created. The motion passed unanimously, with all council members voting yes.
Ordinance 2026-5 Elected Officials and Commission Members Salaries
Council approved Ordinance 2026-5, formally setting the salaries for elected officials and Commission members. These salaries were already included in the city’s approved budget, and the ordinance ensures compliance with state law and transparency for public purposes. The motion passed with a 4-1 vote.
Resolution 2026-1 Trash Collection Fees for 2026
Council approved Resolution 2026-1, updating trash collection fees for 2026 to reflect increases charged by Republic Services under the city’s existing contract. For example, standard trash carts increased from $18.00 to $18.72, with larger containers adjusted proportionally. The increase covers only the costs passed on by the service provider. The city is working with experts through a grant-supported study to improve future trash service contracts and ensure better communication and service for residents. The motion passed unanimously, with all council members voting yes.
Resolution 2026-2 Exploration of a Cooperative Wastewater Venture with City of Centerton and City of Decatur
Council approved Resolution 2026-2, authorizing the city to explore a cooperative regional wastewater partnership with the Cities of Centerton and Decatur. This exploration aims to evaluate the potential for a new regional wastewater facility that can efficiently handle growth and service needs while giving Highfill a voice in planning. The motion passed unanimously, with all council members voting yes.
Resolution 2026-3 Highfill Parks Advisory Appointment
Council approved Resolution 2026-3, reappointing Cameron Wolfe to Position 3 on the Highfill Parks Advisory Committee (HPAC). This ensures continuity and experience on the committee as it continues guiding parks planning and community projects. Two other HPAC positions remain open, and the city plans to engage interested residents in the coming weeks to fill those spots. The motion passed unanimously, with all council members voting yes.
Approval of December 2025 Financial Reports & 2024 Federal Single Audit
Council approved the December 2025 financial reports, reviewing city revenues and expenditures, including liquor tax collections and other ongoing accounts.
The Council also approved the 2024 Federal Single Audit, which included federal ARPA funds received for the NACA line. The audit returned no findings or issues, marking an excellent review of the city’s financial management.
Departmental and Mayor Reports
Fire Department: The Council recognized outstanding service from Highfill’s Fire Department. Highlights included Scott Eichenlaub, named 2025 Firefighter of the Year, Bill Reams, top responder on more than half of calls, and service milestones for Scott Eichenlaub (10 years) and Police Chief Webb (20 years). The department also announced the Chili Supper fundraiser on February 21st, inviting the community to participate and support their efforts.
Public Works Department: Staff focused on snow and ice removal in the coming winter storms, working in challenging conditions to keep streets safe. Residents are reminded that crews are actively clearing roads and to be patient during extreme weather events.
Police Department: The Police Department reported on increased patrols and traffic enforcement in neighborhoods. Limited resources make full coverage challenging, but the department is using tools like a radar trailer to better target high-traffic and high-risk areas. Officers continue prioritizing public safety and responding to community concerns.
Mayor’s Report: The Mayor encouraged residents and council members to attend a public input session on the city’s land use map immediately following the Planning Commission meeting on February 24th at 6:00 PM, highlighting the importance of community participation in planning decisions.
Council Discussion and Adjournment
During the Council discussion, members focused on grant-funded projects, including the sidewalk improvements and the upcoming park donation from the Silver Meadows Property Owners Association. Mayor emphasized that federal grant rules require careful steps, which may take 3–5 years for sidewalk projects, and detailed procedures must be followed. Once all legal and grant requirements are met, the property can immediately be used as a city park, allowing community improvements to begin safely and in compliance with funding rules. With no further discussion, the Council adjourned the meeting.
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.
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