The Highfill City Council held a special called meeting on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. This meeting focused on a single but significant matter: the consideration of a settlement agreement with the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport Authority (XNA), a long-standing topic of interest for the community.
The special meeting allowed the Council to review, discuss, and formally approve a resolution that will have long-term financial and operational implications for the City of Highfill. These decisions ensure the City’s commitments are met while protecting taxpayer interests and providing clarity on future obligations.
Highlights and Key Decisions
📄 Settlement Agreement with XNA
City Attorney Jay Williams presented Resolution 2025-19, authorizing Mayor Chris Holland to execute a memorandum of understanding outlining the settlement terms with XNA.
Mr. WIlliams explained that, earlier in the day, City officials met with representatives from XNA to finalize the agreement. The settlement outlines increased payments by the City through December 2030 under detachment legislation. These payments are designed to fully satisfy the City’s 2018 and 2021 bond issues by the final detachment date of December 31, 2030, when collection of sales tax from airport property will cease.
This resolution represents the culmination of years of discussion and negotiation between the City and XNA. It provides financial certainty for the City, helps protect the interests of Highfill residents, and ensures that long-term planning for City infrastructure and services can continue without disruption.
💬Council Discussion
Following the presentation, Mayor Holland invited Council members to share their perspectives.
Councilor Justin Allen reflected on the years of challenging and sometimes contentious negotiations with XNA, noting that much of the detailed discussion occurred outside the council chamber. He emphasized that these efforts were essential to fulfilling the Council’s responsibility to protect the citizens of Highfill. After several years of difficult dialogue, he expressed that the City and XNA had reached a positive resolution, and the Council and community should feel proud of the outcome.
✅ Council Action
- Resolution 2025-19: Motion to approve was made by Councilor Justin Allen and seconded by Councilor Alexus Main.
- Vote: All present voted in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
- Outcome: Resolution 2025-19 was officially approved, authorizing the Mayor to execute the settlement agreement with XNA.
For more information on City Council Resolutions, visit the City Documents page.
🏁 Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Councilor Justin Allen and seconded by Councilor Alexus Main. All present voted in favor.
Mayor Holland thanked the Council for their commitment to resolving this matter on behalf of the community.
🎥 Watch the Meeting
Missed the special meeting? You can view or listen to the full recording.
It’s My Town!