Hope Board Starts 2026: Leadership Changes, Commission Updates, and MLK Invite

Hope, Ark. — On January 6, 2026, the business of the Hope City Board of Directors began with a call to order by Mayor Don Still, who shared an Invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Director Mark Ross. Then, Gary Johnson was officially sworn in by Judge Joe Short to fill the seat of retired Director Steve Montgomery, whose departure closed a long chapter of city service. The swearing-in was met with applause and a warm welcome.

The board approved minutes from the December 16, 2025, meeting. Then, an executive session followed, focusing on commission appointments. Jerry Pruden received another term on the Hope Water & Light Commission, and Connie Jefferson was reappointed to the Hope Housing Authority Board. Three openings on the Planning & Zoning Commission will be filled soon. Johnson also stepped into duties on the Tourism Commission with Milko Smith, who was reappointed. Mayor Still was named the city’s representative to the Economic Development Corporation, succeeding Montgomery.

While no formal votes were taken on budget or infrastructure, board members briefly reviewed upcoming projects, including street repairs and park upgrades—topics set for full discussion at the next director’s meeting. Yet, grant monies for city improvements were reviewed and accepted.

The city manager’s report included a discussion of the runway 4-22 rehab progress; the SCS Engineers landfill needs meeting (the needed 2026 Bond Initiative discussion); at the next meeting, discussion of Recreation Center Bids and Tennis/Pickleball Complex Bids; and the Ongoing Hospital Committee Discussion and County Resolution.

Proposed items planned for the next meeting include street and park department bids, negotiating the lowest bid changes, and more details of the new fire department facility and adjoining property. These issues will be addressed further at the February 4, 2026, meeting of the board of directors.

During the public comment portion, Marsha White extended a warm invitation to the board and community to attend MLK weekend events on January 18 and 19, with the promise that more details are forthcoming. With no additional comments, Mayor Still adjourned the meeting, setting the mood for a forward-looking tone for 2026 and beyond