Mayor Smith gives State of the City

(March 14, 2023) — Administration and Economic Development

To the honorable members of the Mena City Council, city employees, ladies and gentlemen of the audience, and my fellow citizens, I am pleased to report to you on the “State of the City” of Mena, Arkansas for the year of 2022.

The City Council approved an operating budget of $6,908,627.00 for 2022. As has been the practice for the last few years, a very conservative approach was taken with budget projections; however, with increased sales tax revenues several much needed projects were completed during the year. I am proud to say the City ended the year with a strong bottom line.

The 2022 twelve-month financial statement, which reflects revenues and expenditures for all City departments, is incorporated as a part of this report and details the financial “State of the City”.

Building and Construction

Commercial construction permits issued last year in Mena included the completion of the Walmart renovation, a significant remodel to convert the old Lime Tree Motel to Creekside Apartments and new construction of the Access Medical Clinic. In addition, permits were issued for the construction of several new homes, numerous residential solar panel installations, and 13 Condition-