Article by Emily Wang, White River Now
At the October City-County Connections meeting in Batesville, Independence County Judge Kevin Jeffery updated local leaders and residents on improvements at Desha Park, including the installation of topsoil and sidewalks. Several other county projects are advancing, he said, including bridge construction at Dishwater Creek and road improvements in Floral.
The judge also noted the increasing proximity of crypto-mining operations in Newark and Pleasant Plains to residential areas.
Jeffery highlighted ordinances in place to safeguard citizens, particularly regarding sound requirements. He said a committee is trying to “put teeth” in the regulations to ensure they effectively protect citizens.
Regarding possible future projects, Jeffery shared that a potential solar project under NextEra Energy, spanning 3,900 acres near the power plant, is in discussion. He also said another company is interested in installing 50 windmills across the county.
Jeffery also noted that Independence County’s website, which includes a tax payment portal, is now fully operational.
Batesville Mayor Elumbaugh provided an update on the city’s park projects, noting inmates from the Grimes Unit have been assisting.
Elumbaugh also discussed plans for the Heritage Trail, which spans over 80 acres of natural land. Describing it as a unique attraction, he said, “We are going to kill out old grass and come back with native seeds. It’s going to be very unique for this area.”
The city’s code enforcement team remains busy with condemnations and addressing neglected homes, the mayor said. Leaf collection services are underway, and Elumbaugh asked residents to remain patient as crews work through the volume of requests.
Arkansas State Parks Director and Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis (pictured below) attended the meeting to highlight the state’s outdoor recreation initiatives.
“There are great things taking place in Independence County and Batesville specifically,” Lewis told the audience. “I’m always impressed by the beauty of this county.”
Arkansas State Parks Director and Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis (Image: Arkansas State Parks)
Speaking on Arkansas’ natural beauty and the role it plays in driving tourism, Lewis noted tourism is the state’s second-largest economic driver behind agriculture.
“Gov. Sanders instructed us as a state to be bold and unapologetic in who we are as a people, location, destination, and as a resource for outdoor recreation,” said Lewis.
With 52 state parks and growing interest in outdoor activities, especially stemming from interest during the COVID-19 pandemic, Arkansas has leaned into promoting its resources for outdoor recreation.
Lewis emphasized that tourism is an essential component of economic development, with over 48 million guests visiting the state in 2022.
Key attractions include mountain biking, and legendary fishing and hunting — key pillars for promotion.
Several initiatives, such as Sanders’s executive order to establish the Natural State Initiative, aim to capitalize on Arkansas’ reputation as a premier outdoor destination. Investments are being made to maintain trails, expand campgrounds, and enhance visitor experiences, like at the Monument Trails System.
In terms of area events and activities that garner out-of-state interest, Lewis highlighted The Arkansas Graveler, a multi-day gravel trail ride across the state in June that brought in 400 people.
And one attendee noted that since March 2022, travelers from 22 states have visited Jamestown Crag, which offers over 100 bolted climbing routes, hiking trails, and camping sites.
In addition, Lewis highlighted efforts to promote the state’s food scene, historical sites, and growing music and events sector, which continue to be major drivers of the local economy.
The meeting concluded with discussions about upcoming events in the county, including the Scottish Festival and Christmas light displays, which draw hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Featured image: Gena Tate for White River Now
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