The Jonesboro Capital Improvement Bonds Task Force held a special meeting on September 30, 2025, to discuss the future of the police department's facilities and the proposed construction of a new real-time crime center. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the potential fragmentation of police operations and the impact of relocating various departments.
Chief of Police raised issues about the inefficiencies that would arise from moving the real-time crime center away from detectives, emphasizing that the current setup allows for better collaboration among officers. He expressed frustration over the displacement of patrol officers during the construction phase, arguing that the proposed site on Washington Street would create logistical challenges for emergency response.
The discussion also touched on the need for additional parking and the potential acquisition of a nearby gas station to consolidate property for the police department. Concerns were raised about the environmental costs associated with cleaning up the gas station, which could exceed initial budget estimates.
Task Force members debated the merits of the proposed locations, with some advocating for the Caraway Road site due to its accessibility and potential for future growth. The Chief argued that the Washington site would not only disrupt current operations but also fail to meet the long-term needs of the department.
As the meeting concluded, the importance of making informed decisions based on operational efficiency and public safety was underscored. The Task Force is expected to continue evaluating the proposals, weighing the costs and benefits of each location, and considering the overall impact on police services in Jonesboro.