News

El Dorado City Council Meets, Discusses Grants: “Someone Else’s Money”

Published

1 month ago

April 11, 2025

EL DORADO – The El Dorado Mayor and City Council met in regular session Thursday, April 10th inside a well attended Council Chamber. After the opening ceremonies of prayer, pledge and roll call, Ward 2 Alderman Judy Ward announced the city would participate in the National Day of Prayer.

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

Ward said, “The national day of prayer was started when President Truman signed it into law in 1952, it was originally observed on July 4th.” President Ronald Reagan moved the day to the first Thursday in May, and it has been observed on that day since. Ward said, “Thursday May 1st we will meet here at City Hall, there will be a short message and we will pray.” Mayor Paul Choate followed with, “Let’s pack the building.”

DRUG TAKE BACK

Ward 1 Alderman, Jill Weinischke followed with, “April 26th, from 10 A.M. until 2 P.M., there will be a drive through drug take back in the Walmart parking lot. Authorities will be on hand to receive those prescriptions, whether it is a whole bag full or just one prescription.” The nationwide program began in 2010 amidst the growing concern that flushing or even just tossing prescription drugs was having an impact on groundwater. It was noted, back then, that many municipality wastewater treatment plants were not equipped to remove pharmaceuticals from the water supply. The program allows people to anonymously, if they so choose, discard unused or expired medications and over-the-counter medicines.

“SOMEONE ELSE’S MONEY”

Mayor Choate updated the Council and Chamber on a recent project. “I am happy to say that we spent $300,000 from Arkansas State Street Aid and we put about $200,000 with it to make a half million dollars worth of improvements to the City Streets in the last ten days. I like spending someone else’s money other than yours, I guess is what I’m trying to say.”

FIXING AN OLD PROBLEM

The Mayor then informed the Council of a potential solution to a problem, one which had been plaguing the City’s Ward 4. “We have a real watershed issue. There is a drainage ditch just North of Northwest Elementary School, North and South Magnolia streets and even back over to Brookwood (inside the Racquet Club Subdivision). That area is eroding and we have identified an approximately $2,000,000 grant available from the Delta Regional Authority that could be used to stop that erosion. If we get the grant, we would go in and lay a concrete pan and concrete walls to stop the erosion. So, we are going to go after that money, because it has become a serious issue.” The Mayor then asked the Council to approve a series of resolutions to empower him to apply for that grant, via Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District and empower the District to administer the grant. “We pay dues each year to belong to the District, they have the grant writers and the expertise to apply for the grant.” The Mayor said. The Council approved both resolutions unanimously. The grant is a 100% grant, meaning the City is not required to match any funds received to begin work. After the approval, Ward 3 Alderman Willie McGhee sought permission to add comments and said, “The water issue is one of the issues we been trying to work on, even with the Black Mayors Association. But I think we ought to ask, whenever this tax go on board, we ought to get some of that, because that is our taxpayer money, that one-cent sales tax. And since we know we got several issues in this community we need to focus on, I think we going to look for money but we already got money to start making plans on some of these issues before we wait around. I think, I mean I been around here a long time and we do this over and over, where we spend money all around but the issues that give our city quality of life, we kind of wait for grants and stuff. I think we ought to be more aggressive and, and, I believe this one-cent sales tax will pass but I also believe we need to focus some of it towards some of the issues that we already have like the flooding, the trash, the growed up lots. That’s quality of life, I believe that, and I appreciate you going after that, and there’s a lot more. I hope we still continue to work with the Black Mayors Association also, because this city has a lot of water issues. And I just think, you know, because every time it rains I get a flood of calls and I send y’all a flood of text messages and emails. We got people that there is water actually going in their house every time it rains. We ain’t talking about once a year or every now and then, we are talking about every time it rains in this city, somebody house is getting flooded with water. I just think we need to be more aggressive.”

Mayor Choate followed up with, “I agree with you 100%, we have plenty of issues, we just have to have the money.” Then referring to City Public Works Director Robert Edmonds, the Mayor said, “But do remember, Mr. Edmond’s group, over the last two years, has spent about seven point two, seven point three million dollars on streets and drainage around town and we have alleviated some flooding issues.”

WILLING TO USE FEDERAL MONEY

The Council then considered a resolution which designated the City’s willingness to utilize money from the Federal Aid Transportation Alternatives Program for Recreation Trails Program, in which the Federal Government participates at an 80% level, reimbursing the City for dollars spent in accordance with the grant program. The grant would be to improve downtown streetscaping and would be under the direction of the Arkansas Department of Transportation. According to the Mayor, the project is expected to cost in the neighborhood of $300,000 with just shy of a quarter-million of that to be reimbursed to the City via this grant.

UPDATE: EL DORADO WINS

Recently retired President and CEO of First Financial Bank, Chris Hegi then updated the Council on the proposed one-cent sales tax, commonly called El Dorado Wins. Mr. Hegi thanked the Council for their unanimous support for the tax, which if passed by the voters, would replace the expiring one-cent sales tax previously known as El Dorado Works. “Over the past few months we have had a number of townhall meetings, across our community. We have done some public speaking, where we can. We have had a lot of individual meetings, and we have a really good committee put together. Overall, it has been very positive. We have had opportunities to hear about areas to improve on.” Mr. Hegi said in the coming weeks, people would begin to hear and see advertisements about the tax election. Early voting for the proposed tax begins May 6th with the election to be held on May 13th. Mr. Hegi said he is personally urging people to vote early and asked the Council to do the same. Ward 4 Alderman, Buddy McAdams followed up Mr. Hegi’s update with, “I just want to say how much we appreciate you and your team for the work you are doing,”

XXX

Up Next

River Flooding Remains A Concern As A Calm Weekend Approaches

Don't Miss

Two South Arkansas Teens Killed In Single Vehicle Wreck

News

Union County Sheriff’s Department Searching For Missing Teen

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2025

Grant Merrill

STRONG – The Union County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing 17-year-old from Strong.

Shdarrien Williams was reported missing by his family on Tuesday, May 14, after last being seen on Friday, May 9. At the time, he was wearing blue jeans and a black hoodie, according to authorities.

His mother told investigators that Shdarrien may be in the El Dorado area, with specific attention given to the Murmil, Marrable Hill, and Rock Island neighborhoods.

Anyone with information regarding Shdarrien’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 870-864-1990.

Authorities are continuing their investigation and encourage community members to share any tips, no matter how small, to assist in the search.

News

VOTERS OVERWHELMINGLY APPROVE EL DORADO WINS TAX

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2025

Sandy Sanford

EL DORADO – The El Dorado WINS one-cent sales tax proposal has been approved by the city’s voters. There are still four absentee ballots to be counted, they are at the Union County Courthouse. However, those four votes will not change the outcome of the election. Unofficial results are 572 FOR and 187 AGAINST, showing a 75% vote in favor of the new sales tax.

While it is a “new” sales tax, the previous one-cent tax, called El Dorado WORKS, is set to expire later this year and the new El Dorado WINS tax will replace it. Under the proposal, funds would be allocated as follows:

25% to Parks & Recreation to improve and expand public parks and event spaces
20% to Public Works for upgrades to streets, water systems, and sewer lines
20% to Public Safety for police and fire service enhancements
20% to Future Development to support long-term city planning
10% to Economic Development to attract businesses and stimulate growth
5% to South Arkansas College to maintain and operate the El Dorado Conference Center

Immediately following the results, El Dorado Mayor Paul Choate read a prepared statement which was streamed live at SouthArkansasNow.com’s Facebook page. For his full statement, please see our video. In his statement, he said, “First, I would like to thank all voters who turned out for this election, those who supported the tax and those who didn’t.” The Mayor also gave special thanks to Chris Hegi, the recently retired Chief Executive Officer of First Financial Bank, who helped shape the El Dorado WINS committee. The Mayor also said once the results of the election were certified, the process will begin of appointing a new public facilities board which will review project proposals. Mayor Choate said he will be asking a group of local citizens to review the applications for those who wish to serve on the new board. “This ensures a broad community voice in selecting the individuals who will help shape how these dollars are invested in our city.” He concluded his statement by thanking the voters for their confidence in investing in the City’s shared future.

Should current trends hold over the life of the El Dorado WINS tenure, the city can expect to collect approximately $50,000,000 during the 10 years the tax is in place.

XXX

News

Finances, Student Honors Top El Dorado School Board Meeting

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2025

Jax Sanford

El Dorado School District Board Meeting Summary – May 12, 2025

The El Dorado School District convened for its monthly board meeting on May 12, 2025, addressing key financial reports, program updates, recognitions, and the continued growth of its students and staff. The meeting highlighted the district’s strong financial performance, commitment to student welfare, and recognition of remarkable achievements within the community.

Audit Report Presented by Michael Cobb

Michael Cobb presented the annual audit report, delivering the positive news of a “Clean Opinion” with zero instances of non-compliance or unaccounted transactions. The district’s financial performance for 2024 exceeded expectations, with actual revenue totaling $44.6 million against a budgeted $44.4 million, while expenses were $42 million compared to the $41.2 million budgeted.

The district managed its operational fund effectively, generating $3.5 million in revenue over expenses. These surplus funds were transferred to the Debt Service Fund, contributing to long-term financial stability. Cobb also noted that $4.8 million is required to be utilized between fiscal years 2025 and 2026, and that the Property Assessed Value of the District is approximately $750 million. The board unanimously approved the audit.

Extra Duty Pay Stipends and Salary Schedule Update

The board reviewed and approved updates to the Extra Duty Pay Stipends and the Salary Schedule, reflecting its ongoing commitment to supporting its educators and staff.

Lunch Pricing Adjustments

Due to changes in federal eligibility, the district is no longer qualified for universal free lunch. The board proposed and approved a price of $3.00 for a regular line lunch. This falls in line with districts in the area. However, the Free and Reduced Lunch programs remain available for families in need, and the state legislature has secured free breakfast for all students daily. The board assured that no student would be denied lunch due to non-payment, emphasizing the district’s dedication to student well-being.

Arkansas Seals of Biliteracy Recognition

Heather Jennings, ESL Coordinator for the district, proudly presented the Arkansas Seals of Biliteracy awards to students who demonstrated proficiency in multiple languages:

10th Grade: Ignacio Chavez & Fredling Sarahy Mendoza Salmeron
11th Grade: Abbigail Jasso, Daniela Paralta, and Samuel Ramirez
12th Grade: Denisse Hernandez & Ariana Jasso

These recognitions underscore the district’s commitment to language diversity and global readiness.

SAU Resident Recognition

Two exceptional students were acknowledged for their accomplishments as SAU Residents:

Nealy Elkins: Nealy was honored for her outstanding academic performance and dedication to her educational journey. As a second-grade teacher at Northwest Elementary, she is known for her passion for teaching and her ability to inspire young minds. Her commitment to student growth and learning has set a standard within the district. Nealy is also actively involved in collegiate activities, demonstrating leadership and a drive to excel. Her recognition reflects the hard work and impact she has made on her students and the school community.
Cambell Warner: Cambell was recognized for her leadership and academic excellence, balancing her responsibilities as a fifth-grade science teacher at Washington Middle School with her graduate coursework and sorority commitments. Her ability to manage multiple roles with grace and commitment serves as an example for her peers. Campbell’s enthusiasm for teaching and her dedication to student success make her a valued member of the educational community. Her recognition highlights her positive influence both inside and outside the classroom.

Yocum Primary Recognition

Yocum Primary shined the spotlight on its outstanding community members:

Student of the Month: Katherine Briones Valerio, a 1st grader whose enthusiasm and kindness brighten the school daily. Katherine is known for her caring nature and her constant willingness to help others, always greeting her classmates with a smile. Her teachers describe her as a friend to everyone she meets and someone who radiates positivity. Her willingness to lend a hand and her joyful spirit make her a role model for her peers. Katherine’s recognition as Student of the Month is a reflection of her impact at Yocum Primary.
Classified Employee of the Month: Melinda King has served as a secretary for five years at Yocum Primary. More than just a secretary, Melinda is the heart of the school’s daily operations. She is known for her ability to multitask–coordinating fundraisers, providing first aid, and even bringing joy to students and staff with her “jingle-singing” spirit. Her kindness and efficiency ensure that Yocum Primary runs smoothly, and her contributions are deeply valued by the entire school community.
Teacher of the Month: Ashley Collinsworth, a Literacy Facilitator with 18 years of experience, is known for her genuine passion for teaching and her deep understanding of K-1 Literacy. Her expertise allows her to connect with students who often struggle, finding ways to make learning both engaging and accessible. Ashley is more than just a teacher; she’s a mentor and a friend to her students, always ready to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. Her colleagues admire her hands-on approach and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure every child succeeds. Thanks to her dedication and heartfelt commitment, literacy test scores have consistently improved, reflecting the meaningful impact she has on her classroom and the broader community.

Yocum Elementary Recognition

Yocum Elementary proudly recognized the achievements of its standout community members:

Student of the Month: Zamarion Lowery, affectionately known as “Z,” is a 4th grader whose positive attitude and kindness make him a role model among his peers. Z is described as incredibly responsible, always eager to lend a helping hand and demonstrate respect to those around him. His teachers admire his unwavering kindness and strong moral compass, which guide his actions both in and out of the classroom. Z’s genuine care for others is evident in his daily interactions, and he consistently strives to make his school a better place. His optimism and resilience are inspiring to his classmates and educators alike.
Classified Employee of the Month: Savannah Brown is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education while working at Yocum Elementary. Known for her extraordinary dedication, Savannah goes above and beyond daily to ensure that each student receives the support they need. Her colleagues describe her as compassionate, hardworking, and always willing to take on additional responsibilities when needed. Savannah embodies the spirit of Yocum Elementary through her positive attitude and commitment to student success. Her passion for education and willingness to take initiative have made a lasting impact on the students she serves.
Teacher of the Month: Nicole McAdams is celebrated for her extraordinary commitment to her students and her community, even while facing the personal battle of cancer treatment and chemotherapy. Despite the challenges, Nicole never wavered in her dedication, showing up for her students with a smile and a spirit that inspired those around her. Her nurturing spirit creates lasting connections with both students and colleagues, who admire her strength and resilience. More than just a teacher, Nicole is a pillar of support and kindness, always willing to go the extra mile to ensure her students feel valued and understood. Her colleagues describe her as irreplaceable, a true embodiment of courage and love for teaching. Her perseverance and unwavering optimism continue to inspire her students and the entire Yocum Elementary community.

Yocum Principal’s Report

Yocum Elementary’s Principal, Jessica Moore, shared several standout achievements during her report, particularly highlighting student performance on the ATLAS Winter Interim assessments. Among 9,000 third-grade students across the state, only 73 scored a perfect 4 in elaboration, with Azul Perez being the sole representative from Yocum Elementary—a remarkable accomplishment that speaks to her dedication and focus. In the fourth grade, out of 5,000 students, only six reached the top score of 4 in elaboration, and Paisley McClelland proudly represented Yocum as the only one from the district to achieve this milestone.

These accomplishments reflect the school’s strong instructional focus, which has not only reduced disciplinary referrals before recess but also increased student attendance. An impressive 78% of students in the 3rd and 4th grades demonstrated growth on the ATLAS Winter Interim assessments, showcasing the effectiveness of Yocum’s educational strategies. Principal Moore expressed her pride in these students and praised the dedication of Yocum’s educators for fostering an environment where academic excellence thrives.

Yocum Elementary’s focus on cultivating relationships, building self-managing classrooms, and improving academic performance continues to shine as a model for student achievement and community support.

News

Water Line Installation Closes Timberlane Drive

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO – A section of Timberlane Drive will be closed beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, to allow for the installation of new water lines, city officials announced.

The closure will extend from West Oak Street to Mt. Holly Road and is expected to impact local traffic patterns. Motorists are urged to plan their routes accordingly and avoid the area if possible to reduce congestion and delays.

The work is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing water service reliability in the area. No specific end date for the project was announced.

Drivers and residents in the vicinity are encouraged to stay alert for construction crews and posted detours. Updates will be provided as the project progresses.

News

Union County Judge Announces Upcoming Road Closing

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO – A section of Industrial Road will be closed for approximately two weeks beginning Tuesday, May 14, to allow for culvert replacement, according to local officials.

The closure will extend from Louis Hurley South to the railroad crossing. Construction is scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m. on May 14. Drivers are urged to use alternate routes and plan accordingly to avoid delays.