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RESOLUTION No. 2025-12-01-R <br /> A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF REVIVING THE STATE-RUN FEDERAL SURPLUS <br /> PROPERTY PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE STATE OF ARKANSAS <br /> WHEREAS,the Arkansas Federal Surplus,Property Program has historically provided cities,towns, <br /> counties, state agencies,fire departments, and non-profits across the state with access to high- <br /> quality,government-grade equipment and supplies at a fraction of retail cost; and <br /> WHEREAS,the program enabled local governments to acquire essential items—such as vehicles, <br /> tools,office furniture, emergency response gear,and generators—at discounts of up to 90%, often <br /> paying only-5-10%of the original value;and <br /> WHEREAS,the program was recently shut down due to a reported $300,000 operating deficit, <br /> largely caused by changes in federal policy that shifted surplus property sales to online platforms, <br /> reducing the volume of high-value items available to the state; and <br /> WHEREAS,despite this shortfall, local governments collectively paid approximately$900,000 for <br /> surplus items through the program—receiving goods worth many times that amount— <br /> demonstrating the program's high return on investment and value to Arkansas communities; and <br /> WHEREAS,the closure of the program disproportionately affects small and rural municipalities <br /> that rely on affordable access to durable equipment to maintain public safety, infrastructure,and <br /> essential services;and <br /> WHEREAS,the Arkansas Legislative Council's Joint Performance Review Committee has heard <br /> testimonyfrom local officials and emergency responders urging a fiscal impact study and <br /> reconsideration of the program's closure; and <br /> WHEREAS,the City of Batesville has directly benefited from this program in the past and <br /> recognizes its critical role in supporting local government operations. <br /> NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BATESVILLE, <br /> ARKANSAS: <br /> 1. That we strongly support the revival or replacement of the Arkansas Federal Surplus <br /> Property Program; <br /> 2. That we urge the Governor,Arkansas General Assembly, and relevant state agencies to <br /> explore sustainable funding models or partnerships to restore this vital service; <br /> 3. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Arkansas Department of Public Safety,the <br /> Arkansas Legislative Council, and our local legislative delegation. <br /> PASSED AND APPROVED this 16T" day of December,2025. <br /> Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, City of Batesville <br /> ATTEST: <br /> jJe sica Davis, City C erk <br />