Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Code Enforcement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press Bull Shoals council over Bel Arco enforcement; mayor says staff found insufficient evidence to cite
Summary
During public comment, multiple residents alleged Bel Arco Resort is operating as apartments in violation of ordinances and criticized perceived selective enforcement; Mayor Bill Stahlman told the council staff found insufficient evidence to issue a citation at this time.
Several Bull Shoals residents used the public‑comment period at the April 30 council meeting to press elected officials over alleged ordinance violations at Bel Arco Resort, saying the property is operating more like apartments and that Planning & Zoning recommendations for temporary-use permits were ignored.
Residents said enforcement appears inconsistent and asked why citations have not been issued. One speaker asked about removal of an abandoned couch and chair on Carolyn Street as part of a broader concern about abandoned properties.
Mayor Bill Stahlman responded that staff had investigated and found insufficient evidence to cite Bel Arco for not operating as a resort, though he said evidence existed for other establishments. The mayor and council discussed the process for issuing citations and the respective roles of council, the mayor and Planning & Zoning in enforcement decisions.
Planning & Zoning recommendations for temporary permits were referenced by residents as having been declined, a point that drew further citizen frustration. The minutes record the dispute and the council did not take a formal enforcement action during the meeting; the matter remains unresolved and may involve further investigation or administrative proceedings.
Next steps: staff and Planning & Zoning will continue to review the situation and report back to the council; residents urged clearer and more consistent enforcement guidelines.
