Committee advances bill placing NE Arkansas development district under Delta Center oversight

Senate Bill 659, introduced by Senator Ronald Caldwell, would place the Northeast Arkansas Economic Development District under the supervision of the Delta Center for Economic Development at Arkansas State University. Caldwell told the committee the change is intended to provide oversight; he emphasized it would not alter board membership, employee status, or the district’s mission.

Greene County Judge Rusty McMillan testified against the bill on behalf of some local officials, saying the East Arkansas Planning and Development District’s board and staff conduct business efficiently and that placing the district under Delta Center oversight risks eroding local control. McMillan noted the district currently administers nearly $15 million in grants and asked that local officials be allowed to address any problems directly with district staff before the legislature substitutes additional oversight.

Committee members asked clarifying questions about the existing relationship with the Delta Center and whether the bill would cause duplication of services. The sponsor said the change is meant to add an "extra set of eyes" without removing local authority. After discussion the committee voted to give the bill a favorable recommendation.