News

Jones’ Highlights El Dorado’s Contribution To Energy Sector In Washington Times Op-Ed

Published

2 months ago

April 30, 2026

Grant Merrill

This opinion column originally appeared in The Washington Times on April 29, 2026, titled “Small-town refineries play big role in U.S. energy security.” You can read the original article by clicking here

It’s easy to forget that energy markets are global until they are disrupted, sometimes very far from home.

The unprecedented closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the resulting oil shock have triggered one of the most severe energy disruptions since the 1970s, delivering a reminder that America’s energy security cannot be taken for granted.

American families continue to anxiously watch the fallout in their gas prices.

I remind my neighbors in El Dorado, Arkansas, that we do play a role in this global energy market, thanks to our local refineries. Though they are considered “small refineries,” they couldn’t play a bigger role in our community as our county’s top employers.

Yet proposed policies would devastate small refineries across the country, including those in El Dorado. These refineries are essential to maintaining America’s energy security. A combination of legislation that permits year-round blending of ethanol (up to 15% or “E15”) and removes small refinery exemptions from ethanol mandates could trigger widespread closures of small refineries.

That could escalate the energy affordability crisis precisely when Americans can least afford it.

Events in the Middle East should be a wake-up call. When supply chains collapse and international tensions flare, America’s energy security depends on one critical asset: a strong, diversified domestic refining sector capable of reliably producing the affordable fuel U.S. families depend on every day.

Thirty-seven small but mighty refineries scattered across rural communities nationwide provide 1.8 million barrels per day of U.S. refining capacity. To put this into perspective, that’s enough fuel to meet the daily needs of millions of American families.

This is a capacity we simply cannot afford to lose amid the global energy volatility we are witnessing today.

These aren’t just energy facilities; they are economic lifelines to more than 385,000 direct and indirect high-quality American jobs in communities that depend on them. We’re talking about plant operators, maintenance workers, truck drivers and countless others whose livelihoods are tied to these facilities.

Hundreds of employees and contractors make their living at El Dorado’s refineries. That easily makes them some of the top employers in Union County, home to about 40,000 people.

When small refineries such as those in El Dorado close, entire towns suffer the consequences.

American communities understand what happens when manufacturing jobs leave town. Refinery jobs averaging $120,000 per year, many of them union positions, could disappear overnight. Closures would reduce local tax revenue that funds schools, public safety and infrastructure. Local businesses that partner with refineries will lose a steady stream of business.

The consequences are severe.

We know from numerous studies that compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard can add approximately $10 per barrel in costs, expenses that could be passed directly to consumers at the pump.

Lawmakers face a choice in this unprecedented moment. They can either reinforce America’s domestic refining capacity or bow to special interests with policies that will weaken it, leaving our nation more vulnerable to the next global crisis.

The path forward is clear: Congress must preserve the Small Refinery Exemption and reject mandates that would force closures of facilities critical to American energy production, jobs and affordability.

These aren’t abstract policy debates. They are decisions that will directly affect whether American families can afford to fill their gas tanks and maintain their quality of life.

The Iran conflict has reminded us that energy security is national security. We cannot allow short-sighted policies and special interests to dismantle the domestic refining infrastructure that insulates American families from global turmoil.

Our small refineries are not expendable; they are essential. Let’s make sure they stay open.

• Steven Jones is president and CEO of the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce in El Dorado, Arkansas. This opinion column originally appeared in The Washington Times on April 29, 2026, titled “Small-town refineries play big role in U.S. energy security.” It is republished here with permission from the author.

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State Awards El Dorado Site Development Grant To Boost Industrial Growth

News

City Seeking Applicants For Open Planning And Zoning Commission Seat

Published

5 hours ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Residents interested in helping shape the future growth and development of El Dorado have an opportunity to serve their community through the city’s Planning & Zoning Commission.

The City of El Dorado is currently accepting applications from individuals interested in serving on the commission, which plays a key role in reviewing development proposals, zoning matters, land use requests, and long-range planning initiatives that impact the community.

City officials say serving on the Planning & Zoning Commission is a meaningful way for residents to become involved in local government and help guide decisions that affect the city’s future.

Applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. on July 13, 2026.

Anyone interested in applying or learning more about the position is encouraged to contact City Clerk Heather McVay. Applications and additional information are available by calling 870-881-4877 or 870-814-9179, or by emailing [email protected].

The City of El Dorado encourages qualified residents who are passionate about their community and interested in civic service to apply before the deadline.

News

El Dorado Native Hired As Fayetteville Homelessness Strategy Coordinator

Published

5 hours ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

FAYETTEVILLE – An El Dorado native has been selected to serve as the City of Fayetteville’s first full-time homelessness strategy coordinator, a newly created position aimed at addressing homelessness and expanding housing opportunities for vulnerable residents.

Gage Reed, who most recently managed day services at 7 Hills Homeless Center, has been hired by the city to lead homelessness response efforts under the Department of Housing and Community Services. The position marks the first time the city has dedicated a full-time employee specifically to homelessness services.

Reed joins the department overseen by Chief Housing Officer Marlee Stark. The department was recently reorganized and renamed from the Community Resources Division as part of the city’s broader efforts to address housing and community development needs.

In his new role, Reed will coordinate the city’s extreme weather response efforts for individuals experiencing homelessness and work to expand access to shelter and housing resources. He will also focus on strengthening partnerships with local landlords participating in the city’s HEARTH permanent supportive housing program and advancing initiatives designed to improve housing stability and economic opportunities for residents facing homelessness.

According to the city, Reed brings extensive experience working directly with individuals experiencing homelessness. During his time at 7 Hills Homeless Center, he coordinated services with regional providers, volunteers, first responders, and community partners to assist those in need.

Before joining 7 Hills, Reed worked in mortgage lending and property management, giving him additional experience in housing-related fields. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Arkansas.

City officials say Reed’s combination of local roots, housing experience, and direct service work make him well-positioned to help lead the city’s efforts to address homelessness and connect residents with the resources they need.

Reed began his new position on Monday and will earn an annual salary of $50,003.

News

The Cove Counseling And Wellness Celebrates Grand Opening With Ribbon Cutting

Published

5 hours ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO— The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed a new addition to the local business community with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Cove Counseling and Wellness Center.

Chamber representatives, community members, and supporters gathered to celebrate the opening of the center and recognize its commitment to providing counseling and wellness services to residents throughout the area.

The Chamber congratulated The Cove Counseling and Wellness Center on its opening and expressed its support for the organization’s efforts to serve individuals and families in the community.

Mental health and wellness services continue to be an important resource for many residents, and community leaders say the addition of The Cove Counseling and Wellness Center expands access to support and care in El Dorado and Union County.

The center is now open and accepting appointments.

Individuals interested in learning more about available services or scheduling an appointment can contact The Cove Counseling and Wellness Center at 501-566-4803.

The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce encourages residents to support local businesses and organizations that contribute to the health, well-being, and quality of life of the community.

News

Sheriff Warns Of Ongoing Scams

Published

5 hours ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO – Residents are being urged to stay alert after reports surfaced of scammers posing as federal agents and claiming to work through a local sheriff’s office in an effort to steal money from victims.

According to the warning, callers are contacting individuals and falsely claiming they owe bonds, fines, or other payments that must be made immediately using prepaid gift cards or similar methods.

Law enforcement officials stress that these claims are fraudulent and do not reflect how legitimate law enforcement agencies operate.

Officials noted that even if federal agents were working alongside a sheriff’s office, which is not the case in these reports, any official business would never be handled through phone calls demanding payment by prepaid cards.

Authorities are encouraging residents to be especially vigilant and to share the warning with family members, friends, and elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable to scams.

Law enforcement says many of these schemes originate from outside the United States, making it extremely difficult to identify suspects or recover stolen funds once money has been sent.

Officials advise residents to be suspicious of anyone who contacts them unexpectedly and pressures them to send money, gift cards, prepaid cards, or personal financial information. Legitimate government agencies do not demand immediate payment over the phone or require payment through gift cards.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call is encouraged to hang up and contact their local law enforcement agency directly using a verified phone number.

Authorities say the best defense against these scams is awareness, caution, and a healthy dose of skepticism whenever an unsolicited caller demands money or personal information.

News

Flash Flooding Risk Affects South Arkansas, North Louisiana Today

Published

5 hours ago

June 15, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Residents across South Arkansas should remain alert for the potential of flash flooding today and tonight as multiple rounds of heavy rainfall move through the region.

The National Weather Service in Shreveport has placed much of South Arkansas under a risk for excessive rainfall, with forecasters warning that prolonged periods of heavy rain could lead to flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Union County, including El Dorado, is currently included in a Marginal Risk area, while counties farther south and east are under a Slight Risk for flash flooding. Forecasters say any location that experiences repeated thunderstorms could quickly receive significant rainfall totals.

Rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are expected across portions of the region, with localized areas potentially seeing even higher totals where storms repeatedly move over the same locations. Rainfall rates could reach 1 to 3 inches per hour during the heaviest downpours.

Meteorologists say areas within the Slight Risk zone have at least a 15% chance of experiencing flash flooding within 25 miles of any given location.

The greatest concerns include flooded roadways, rapidly rising creeks and streams, and water accumulating in low-lying areas. Drivers are urged to use caution and never attempt to drive through flooded roads.

Emergency officials recommend monitoring weather forecasts throughout the day and being prepared to take action if a Flash Flood Warning is issued.

The threat is expected to continue through tonight as additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms develop across the Four State Region.

Forecasters stress that while not everyone will experience flooding, locations that receive multiple rounds of heavy rain could see dangerous conditions develop quickly.