Developing Howard County Discusses Economic Growth, Industrial Prospects, and Housing Needs During May Meeting
During the May 28 meeting of Developing Howard County (DHC), Executive Director Vanessa Weeks reported on the success of the SADA/State of the Southwest Conference held in April in Nashville.
Weeks also updated the board on her recent trip to Washington, D.C., for the SelectUSA Investment Summit. She said she joined other members of the Arkansas delegation in meeting with diplomats and industry leaders from around the world. According to Weeks, the connections made during the event could lead to positive economic development opportunities for the area.
Weeks further updated the board on a potential industrial prospect considering the former Ox Body facility as a possible expansion site. She added that DHC may soon meet with representatives from another company interested in locating in the region. That effort is currently being referred to as “Project Atlas.”
Howard County Judge Brent Pinkerton suggested the board consider holding meetings in other Howard County communities to better answer residents’ questions about economic development efforts. Pinkerton also reported that the Dierks City Council has not yet voted on approving the transfer of revenue from the county’s 10 percent sales tax to DHC and Howard Memorial Hospital.
Weeks announced plans to host a housing roundtable meeting at the UA Cossatot campus in Lockesburg to discuss housing needs and challenges in Howard, Little River, and Sevier counties.
Board President Paul Britt provided an update on the approximately 36 acres donated to DHC by Tyson Foods. Britt said the property’s mill tower will need to be demolished, with estimated demolition costs totaling approximately $700,000. He noted that the remaining buildings on the property are in good condition.
Because the board did not have a quorum at its March meeting, members voted to approve the February meeting minutes and financial reports during the May session. The board also voted to appoint Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dena Tollett as an ex officio board member.