The two Texarkanas initiate historic attempt

For years, most of us here in the Twin Cities have seen Texarkana as one big place to call home. We live on one side, sure. But we may work on the other. Certainly we cross the state line as if it were just another road, shopping and dining where our whimsy takes us.

About the only real rivalry in most of our lives is the annual football showdown between Arkansas and Texas high schools.

But the reality is there are two Texarkanas, in two different states. There are two city governments, two police and fire departments. Two sets of state laws and city ordinances.

And that sometimes means opposing priorities. We have often heard from readers wondering why the cities can’t work together. And we have wondered the same thing more than once in this space.

Now it looks like the two Texarkanas may be moving a bit closer to that reality.

This week, representatives from Texarkana, Arkansas, and Texarkana, Texas, gathered for what has been described as a “historic” meeting.

Arkansas-side Mayor Ruth Penney-Bell, along with City Directors Tim Johnson and Travis Odom, joined Texarkana, Texas, Mayor Bob Bruggeman and Council Members Josh Davis and Christy Paddock to initiate the Joint Texarkana Community Committee.

The group will meet quarterly to “discuss issues of joint interest” between the two cities.

While the group can’t vote to take action, they can share ideas and hash out differences that could have an impact when votes are taken at the respective city governing bodies.

There are plenty of areas where the cities could work together for the benefit of both. Certainly issues discussed at the first meeting, like water, improved broadband service and improvements to the Bi-State Justice Building and the local airport, are important to everyone, no matter whether you live in Arkansas or Texas.

So what will come of this? Who knows. Maybe the committee will serve as an effective liaison between the two cities. Maybe it will just be so much talk with no measurable outcome. We can only wait. And hope.

But at least they’re trying. That’s a good first step.