HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-12-01-R RESOLUTION No. 2025-12-01-R
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF REVIVING THE STATE-RUN FEDERAL SURPLUS
PROPERTY PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE STATE OF ARKANSAS
WHEREAS,the Arkansas Federal Surplus,Property Program has historically provided cities,towns,
counties, state agencies,fire departments, and non-profits across the state with access to high-
quality,government-grade equipment and supplies at a fraction of retail cost; and
WHEREAS,the program enabled local governments to acquire essential items—such as vehicles,
tools,office furniture, emergency response gear,and generators—at discounts of up to 90%, often
paying only-5-10%of the original value;and
WHEREAS,the program was recently shut down due to a reported $300,000 operating deficit,
largely caused by changes in federal policy that shifted surplus property sales to online platforms,
reducing the volume of high-value items available to the state; and
WHEREAS,despite this shortfall, local governments collectively paid approximately$900,000 for
surplus items through the program—receiving goods worth many times that amount—
demonstrating the program's high return on investment and value to Arkansas communities; and
WHEREAS,the closure of the program disproportionately affects small and rural municipalities
that rely on affordable access to durable equipment to maintain public safety, infrastructure,and
essential services;and
WHEREAS,the Arkansas Legislative Council's Joint Performance Review Committee has heard
testimonyfrom local officials and emergency responders urging a fiscal impact study and
reconsideration of the program's closure; and
WHEREAS,the City of Batesville has directly benefited from this program in the past and
recognizes its critical role in supporting local government operations.
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BATESVILLE,
ARKANSAS:
1. That we strongly support the revival or replacement of the Arkansas Federal Surplus
Property Program;
2. That we urge the Governor,Arkansas General Assembly, and relevant state agencies to
explore sustainable funding models or partnerships to restore this vital service;
3. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Arkansas Department of Public Safety,the
Arkansas Legislative Council, and our local legislative delegation.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 16T" day of December,2025.
Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, City of Batesville
ATTEST:
jJe sica Davis, City C erk