Residents urge farmers market and raise senior center concerns; county proclaims Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Several residents used the citizens forum at the April 19 Benton County Commission meeting to press matters affecting daily life in the county.

Henry Berry (1st District) asked that monthly Electric Board minutes be included in commissioners' packets to improve oversight. Carol Wallace, director of the Benton County Senior Center, described problems with the center building and urged county attention to facility conditions. Multiple speakers including Kathy Weatherly (Benton County Fair), Iris Clifft and Debbie Baldwin voiced support for a proposed farmers market, arguing it would improve access to local produce, create vendor opportunities and provide a safer location for citizens and 4-H youth. District Attorney Matt Stowe thanked the commission for community efforts and called Benton County and Camden among the safest areas to live.

Separately, Mayor Brett Lashlee read and the commission adopted a proclamation declaring April 2021 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, endorsing the "Start by Believing" campaign and encouraging community support for survivors. The proclamation cites regional reporting and victim-service statistics and urges public- and private-sector engagement around prevention and survivor support.

The public comments and proclamation came before a meeting that proceeded to approve multiple budget and appointment items. Commissioners acknowledged the citizen input; Commissioner Marv Powers specifically thanked those who spoke. Mayor Lashlee said county buildings including EMA and the agricultural extension office need attention and that a capital improvement plan is necessary to address long-term needs.