Mayors give snapshots on the state of the cities here

TEXARKANA — Based on what mayors here told the Texarkana Regional Chamber of Commerce during a ZOOM meeting Tuesday, the outlook is good.

“Things have been really busy,” said Arkansas-side Mayor Alan Brown. “We are still feeling the effects from the ice storm, and they created complications for some road projects. But things are under way, especially since both the city budget and revenues are looking good.”

Brown counted off several that are in various stages of work.

“We are redoing the wiring of lights on I-10,” he said. “Citizens and travelers have both expressed concerns and we are getting to that project.”

The new animal shelter approaching completion as well as the additional funds coming in are also positive points he noted.

“The additional funds will also help out with needed refurbishment and additions to the old building,” he said.

The old Boys and Girls Club building and property is being redone. Because of a HUD loan as well as plentiful volunteers coming forth, Brown anticipates the net cost to the city for this project will be zero.

“We will be refurbishing the building,” he said. “Everything will be addressed, gymnasium, ball fields, everything.”

Mayor Bob Bruggeman of Texarkana, Texas, reported on his side of the state line.

“We have rezoning going on,” he said. “The north end of Gibson lane as well as other parts of the city are looking to expand residential areas. With COVID on the decline, activity is picking up. There is a new roundabout coming to University (Avenue) and Gibson (Lane). We have a community cleanup event coming soon. And, per Governor Abbot, all adults in Texas are now eligible for the COVID vaccine.”

Mayor Robert Bunch of Nash, Texas, expressed concern about the potential change in metro status of Texarkana.

“We have had assistance in the amount of $300,000 in grant money that helped us with some city repairs,” he said. “With a change in status, we might not have gotten that money.”

He also noted the Amerinox plant across the street from Texarkana Aluminum is now fully operational.

“Also, the Nash business park has been expanded by the city, by 30 acres,” he said.

Natalie Haywood, director of events and communications for the chamber, noted the success of their recent Women in Business Conference. This year, due to COVID, it was conducted virtually. Still, it was popular and well attended.

“Julie Santiago’s presentation was the biggest part of it,” she said.

Haywood said the chamber’s fishing tournament is coming together.

“Already, interested fishermen are booking hotel rooms for the event,” she said. “We are still lining up sponsors and this will be a chance for local fishermen and businesses to show off their gear.”