City of Hope Board of Directors Convenes for August Meeting Amid Transitions and Updates

Hope, AR — August 19, 2025 The City of Hope Board of Directors convened on Tuesday evening for its second regular meeting of the month, held at City Hall with both in-person and virtual attendance options available to the public. Mayor Don Still called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Dr. Linda Clark offered the Invocation, and Director Reginald Easter led the Pledge of Allegiance. Director Mark Ross was notably absent from the meeting. While no formal explanation was provided, Ross has previously shared that he is dealing with personal and family health concerns. In a temporary reshuffling of roles, Assistant City Manager Daniel Shelman filled in for City Manager J.R. Wilson, who assumed the duties of City Clerk in place of Cindy Clark. Despite the personnel adjustments, the meeting proceeded efficiently.

The Board reviewed and approved the minutes from the August 5, 2025, meeting.

Among the key agenda items discussed was the declaration of a 1996 International Dump Truck as surplus property. The vehicle, which has served the city for nearly 30 years and requires extensive repairs, will be disposed of via auction or scrap.

Another major topic was the city’s submission of a preapplication for $521,830 in funding through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund – Emerging Contaminants (CWSRF-EC) program. This federal initiative, administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), supports infrastructure projects that address pollutants such as PFAS and other emerging contaminants. The program offers a higher likelihood of principal forgiveness, which could significantly reduce the financial burden on the city for landfill remediation efforts.

Progress on the project at Northside Park was also discussed. Design submittals were reviewed. The Board agreed that Parks Director Summer Chambers would finalize the accent color choices. Construction is expected to begin in September, with a projected timeline of 120 days. Bids for associated infrastructure, including bathrooms, electrical systems, and lighting, are currently under review. During the meeting, the Board extended heartfelt congratulations to Summer Chambers for her leadership and dedication in organizing a successful Watermelon Festival. Her efforts were praised for bringing the community together and showcasing Hope’s vibrant local culture.

City Manager J.R. Wilson was present to address questions regarding the financial report. Clarifications were provided on specific line items, and Wilson assured the Board that any additional concerns would be addressed directly with the directors. The meeting underscored the city’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development and environmental stewardship, even as leadership adapted to temporary personnel changes. With several projects—including the Recreation/Aquatic Center and Splashpad—moving forward, the City of Hope continues to demonstrate its dedication to community improvement and long-term planning.