The Batesville City Council approved changes to the city’s employee handbook and authorized additional action connected to Arkansas Natural Resources Commission funding during its meeting Tuesday, September 8.
Council members adopted an ordinance amending the employee handbook following an update from Safety and Human Resources Director Chris Cash.
The ordinance included an emergency clause, allowing the amendments to take effect immediately. City officials said the changes are necessary for the administration of Batesville’s personnel policies and operations.
Cash reported that Batesville has experienced four vehicle-related insurance claims and 10 workers’ compensation cases so far in 2026.
The city has also had 18 employees retire, resign or otherwise leave their positions. Based on an average workforce of approximately 152 employees, Cash placed the city’s turnover rate at 11.6%.
Batesville implemented the federal E-Verify employment eligibility system during 2026. The city is also preparing to replace its Kronos timekeeping software with a Tyler Technologies system in 2027.
Water System And Funding
The council adopted a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute documents connected to funding administered by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission.
City Engineer Damon Johnson reported that work continues on questions surrounding construction at the city’s river water-intake site.
Johnson said Batesville’s existing water plant is currently producing approximately 9 million gallons of water per day. The city’s normal yearly average is approximately 7.5 million gallons per day.
“The old water plant is working hard right now,” Johnson told council members.
City employees are continuing to operate the aging facility while the city moves forward with its water-system improvements.
Riverside Park Projects Moving Forward
Johnson also reported progress on park improvements.
Dirt work for the splash pad has been completed, and the installation crew is expected to begin work soon. Dirt work for the inclusive playground area is also expected to begin.
The city plans to use fencing to separate the active water-intake construction site from completed areas of the park. The new roadway and parking lot are expected to remain accessible, along with pedestrian access to the river.
Johnson said the construction arrangement could cause some inconvenience for approximately 12 to 14 months.
Police Department Moves Closer To Accreditation
Batesville Police Chief John Scarbrough reported that the department recently completed an inspection connected to its effort to receive ALEAP accreditation.
Scarbrough said the department passed the inspection but must still receive final approval from the accreditation board before the designation becomes official.
Captain Fred Pryor was presented with a certificate of recognition for his work and leadership during the accreditation process.
The certificate praised Pryor’s attention to detail, perseverance and commitment to meeting professional law-enforcement standards.
Fire Chief Warns Residents About Burn Ban
Batesville Fire Chief Brent McCollum urged residents to continue following the burn ban because of extremely dry conditions.
Firefighters were recently called to the former Logan Auto Parts property on Central Avenue after smoke was reported. Officials determined that someone was burning wet leaves.
McCollum warned that even a small outdoor fire could spread rapidly under the current conditions.
“It doesn’t take much,” McCollum said. “All it needs is one little puff of air, and it’s gone.”
Officials said citations were not being issued at the time of the meeting, but residents were strongly encouraged to comply with the burn ban.
Additional Council Action
The council also:
Authorized the sale of city-owned property at 6465 Bethesda Road. The city acquired the property while taking over the Bethesda water system but determined it was no longer needed.
Adopted an ordinance adding a section to the zoning provisions of the Batesville Municipal Code.
Reappointed Greg Mulkey to the Batesville Parks and Recreation Commission.
Approved the transfer of a 2023 Dodge Ram from the police department to animal control and a 2022 Dodge Ram from animal control to the police department.
The next Batesville City Council meeting is scheduled for September 22.
