Van Buren, Arkansas Development News
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B'Ville Village Board Meeting - 07/16/2026
Published: Jul 16, 2026
Daycare Special Use Permit Hearing Addresses Traffic, Capacity Concerns
The village board held a public hearing on the application for a special use permit for Tic-Tac-Toe Daycare Center at 43 Asiggo Street. Kevin Baker spoke in favor, citing a need for daycare services and the village being a 'daycare desert.' James Miller raised concerns about traffic mitigation due to the location. The board discussed attaching conditions to the permit regarding parking and drop-off/pick-up times. Ultimately, the board decided to table the decision to gather more information and potentially address concerns through added conditions.
Village Approves Budget Modifications, Surplus Equipment Sale Yields Over $17,000
The board approved budget modifications totaling $17,715.50 from the sale of surplus village equipment, including mowers, a street sweeper, dump trucks, and a plow truck. Funds will be allocated to the general fund. Additionally, budget modifications were approved for park trail signs ($4,000 from 'in lieu of parks' funds) and to cover unexpected costs for securing a burned home on Salina Street ($7,650 from code enforcement funds). The board also approved payment for electrical work at Reeves Field, totaling $13,900.
Village Adjourns Hotel Occupancy Tax Hearing Amid Procedural and Economic Concerns
The village board discussed a proposed local law to impose a hotel room occupancy tax. A procedural objection was raised regarding the timely distribution of the proposed law to the trustees, delaying the public hearing. The board ultimately voted to adjourn the public hearing to a later date, August 6th, to ensure compliance with state law and allow for adequate review. During public comments, Shelley Hoffman questioned the purpose of the tax, suggesting it could fund tourism or address housing shortages but opposing it if it's merely a revenue grab. Jim Dale argued against the tax, emphasizing that the goal should be to attract visitors and maximize their spending, not just collect taxes, and that owner-occupied bed and breakfasts should be exempt. Melanie, President of the Chamber of Commerce, also spoke against the tax, fearing it would deter visitors and harm local businesses. The board plans to hold the public hearing on August 6th.
Village Explores Opting In to Cannabis Sales for Economic Benefits
The village board reviewed a proposal to opt into the legal cannabis retail market, currently opting out under village code 135. Michael Bry argued that opting in would generate significant tax revenue (1.5% of gross sales, estimated at $60,000 annually per dispensary) for village needs like road repairs and park maintenance, without increasing property taxes. Tim Cesco, from a dispensary in East Rochester, shared positive experiences, noting over $2.8 million in revenue and $100,000 in municipal tax contributions, with no issues and benefits to the community. The board acknowledged the potential revenue but also the need to consider regulations if they opt in. No immediate decision was made, but the discussion indicated a willingness to explore the option further.
Village Considers Allowing Home Occupations, Including Bakeries, in Residential Zones
The board discussed a request to define and potentially add 'home occupation' to the village zoning code, as it is currently not defined and not permitted in R1 districts. Andrea Jones, seeking to operate a home bakery under the NY State Home Processing Exemption, presented her case. The board considered adding a definition for home occupation, including potential restrictions on hours, parking, and specific types of businesses like bakeries. The proposal to add a definition and allow home occupations in R1, R2, and R1A districts will be further drafted and brought back for a public hearing. The specific case of a bakery operating under the state exemption was discussed, with assurances that it would not conflict with health codes or significantly impact traffic.
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The Van Buren News archive
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