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is great risk that Batesville and Independence County are left behind. Let me give you <br /> an example of how some other comparative and progressive cities are doing. The last <br /> official census was 1990, however a census "estimate" was made in 1996. Let's take a <br /> look at the period 1990 to 1996. <br /> Growth <br /> Cabot --------------------------------- 4,637 <br /> Harrison ------------------------------1,601 <br /> Mt. Home -----------------------------2,209 <br /> Searcy ---------------------------------1,977 <br /> and now, Batesville ----------------------------- 445 <br /> Let's say, for example, an industry looks at these figures and just on paper, one might <br /> conclude this is not a very progressive community. Of course, we know the truth. <br /> As to the question or comment, "Why would I want to be a part of Batesville"? I would <br /> say.......without a progressive city like Batesville, which by the way provides 87% of all <br /> revenue, what do you have left? Where do you work and maybe have retired from? <br /> Where do you shop, enjoy recreational activities? Do you want your children and <br /> grandchildren to have the opportunity to live here and work? To have these thingsoouu <br /> must have a strong, growing economy. There is only so much real estate and there's <br /> not much let in the present city limits. For a brief moment, just imagine this county with <br /> no Batesville in it....or for that matter, this part of Arkansas <br /> There will not be another census until 2010. Unless we act, there will be no increase in <br /> turnback on sales tax. We must move forward this year. My approach to this issue will <br /> be: To anyone not in favor of this.... you are not a political enemy. It is my belief that if I <br />