HOPE, Ark. — The Hope Board of Directors on Tuesday approved the renaming of Northside Park to Dr. Roscoe C. Smith Park, accepted bids for needed rail repairs, and discussed several major infrastructure and community projects during its regular meeting.
Mayor Don Still called the May 5 meeting to order, followed by an invocation from Director Dr. Linda Clark and the Pledge of Allegiance. The board approved minutes from its April 21 meeting before moving into agenda items.
The board continued discussion on the 2026 sanitation bond issue, with consultant Cheryl Schluterman attending remotely to answer questions and provide updates. Also, there was bond-provider information and financial details distributed.
A previously tabled proposal to rename Northside Park advanced to a final vote after community supporters were given time to gather signatures and invite additional public input. Supporters, including Joann Johnson, Alamae Flenory, and Marsha White, presented more than 500 signatures to support the name change. With no opposition voiced, the board unanimously approved renaming the park in honor of Dr. Roscoe C. Smith. The decision was met with applause, and board members were also praised for recently installed signage recognizing the historic significance of the park’s swimming area, where it was once located and enjoyed.
City Manager J.R. Wilson explained revisions to the previously tabled Third Street land acquisition associated with a future fire station. Wilson said the bond proposal was amended to ensure only the designated two acres are included, allowing flexibility for future expansion and development of the remaining property. One of the board directors added that “the cleanup of the area has already benefited residents.”
The board approved the lowest of five bids from BO-TECH to replace approximately 300 railroad ties after city workers conducted visual rail inspections aimed at preventing costly derailments. Weather permitting, officials expect the repairs to be completed before summer.
Directors also authorized beginning the process of selecting a timber management company to assess airport-owned timberland for potential long-term maintenance and eventual harvesting. Officials emphasized the effort is for fact-finding purposes to protect the airport’s long-term interests.
Police Chief Kimberly Tomlin requested approval to apply for the STEP 2026–2027 grant, which would fund child safety seats, radar equipment for traffic enforcement, and officer overtime. She reported improved staffing levels, noting one cadet is currently at the academy and expected to graduate in about 14 weeks. Vice-Mayor Kiffinea Talley asked, “If there were any African American, new hires or applicants,” and the Chief said, “Not at this time,” but assured the board and community that minorities are encouraged to apply. She also highlighted the ongoing need for bilingual, English and Spanish-speaking officers.
Assistant City Manager Daniel Shelman reported that damage from a recent hailstorm is still being assessed. Preliminary reports include roof damage to the Hope Depot Museum, the total loss of the police chief’s vehicle, and damage to the fire chief’s vehicle, with additional findings possible following further inspections. Wilson also updated the board on the city’s ‘Hope for the Future’ initiatives, including the splash pad and the aquatic center. and the pickleball and tennis courts, with possible funding for the soccer program. The splash pad is nearing completion, and Parks Director Summer Chambers assured the board and community that the contractor has committed to finishing the project by Memorial Day.
In other business, the board discussed the Arkansas Department of Transportation’s Intersection Improvement Program, determining that high costs pose challenges for the rural city and that alternative solutions are being explored. Wilson also announced the re-hiring of Donnie Mauer, who has returned to his former role as assistant wastewater superintendent. With no further comments from board members or residents in attendance, the meeting was adjourned.
