Harrison City Council: Public Safety, Infrastructure, and Downtown Success

HARRISON, AR. - The Harrison City Council recently met to provide a series of updates regarding public safety, city infrastructure, and community achievements.

Police Chief Graddy reported that while Memorial Day remained quiet, the narcotics division successfully intercepted two juveniles from Tennessee. The suspects were arrested on Highway 65 in a stolen Toyota Tundra containing 14 stolen firearms valued at approximately $20,000. Chief Graddy noted that the arrest was made possible by a tip from a citizen who had previously been arrested but chose to assist the police.

Harrison Fire Chief Lowery urged the public to stop forcing open gates at low-water crossings, asking residents to contact the department for unlocking services instead. He also reported that a semi-truck crash into a restaurant in Western Grove fortunately resulted in no fatalities.

In Public Works, Wade Phillips announced that Goblin Drive is expected to be open before the start of the school year. Additionally, new traffic signals at Harness/Hester should be operational within two weeks, with Walmart and airport signals to follow. Traffic is also expected to resume on the Crooked Creek bridge in June.

Community growth remains a priority, with Main Street Harrison reporting a successful quarterly update. Under new executive director Lauri Rottmayer, the organization has raised $36,000 through fundraising and awarded $12,500 in grants for downtown repairs. This effort complements the work of the Downtown Strategies Committee, an ad hoc group formed around Mike Nabors. The committee is now dissolving after successfully revitalizing the city square. Each member of the Downtown Strategies Committee was recognized and honored with a certificate. Those members were:

• Matt Bell
• Donna Braymer
• Sonja Bruce
• Roni Combs
• Beverly DeWitt
• Karlea Kimes-Newberry
• Mike Nabors
• Emily Powers

Nabors gave a brief speech about the success of the organization, and said "I'm very proud to have worked with such an outstanding group of people."

Mayor Jerry Jackson officially proclaimed May 28, 2026, as "Mike Nabors Day" for his dedication to the community.

Finally, the Boone County Imagination Library announced "Reading in the Park" events for children ages birth to five. These free events will be held Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. at Harrison City Park.