COMMISSIONER ERNEST "RAY' BURNETT AND MR. EDWARD CHEVALLIER ARE THE FIRST ONES TO PAY THE $80 PARKS & RECREATION "AMENITY" FEE.

February 25th, 2025

Citizens Make First Payments Toward Newly Passed Recreation Fee

Horseshoe Bend, AR – In a landmark moment for the city, Municipal Recreational Improvement District (MRID) Chairman Ernest Raymond Burnett, along with Mr. Edward Chevallier, became the first individuals to make payments under the newly established Parks & Recreation fee. The two attended City Hall on February 25, 2025, at 11 a.m. to submit their payments, marking the beginning of a citywide initiative aimed at funding local amenities.

The recreation fee is set at $80 per lot within city boundaries. The ordinance establishing the fee was approved unanimously by the city council during the February 13th Finance Committee meeting. Amendments to the ordinance, including provisions for late fees and non-payment penalties, were adopted via a resolution at the February 24th City Council meeting. Bills are scheduled to be issued on March 1, with a designated timeframe for payments to be made.

Mr. Chevallier stated that his payment covered three units on behalf of a property owner he rents from, while Mr. Burnett made his payment on the single parcel he owns in the city. Chevallier expressed encouragement for property owners to fulfill the fee obligation, emphasizing its role in maintaining and enhancing the city's amenities.

As the implementation process moves forward, city officials expect further community engagement and discussions regarding the impact and administration of the recreation fee.