Public hearing set for Hiwasse annexation

— A public hearing on the petition of Hiwasse area residents who wish to voluntarily annex into Gravette will be held at 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 27, in Bentonville.

County Judge Bob Clinard will conduct the hearing in his chambers to determine“that all legal requirements concerning the annexation have been met and that all the appropriate land owners have been contacted,” he said.

The hearing will determine if everything is in order to proceed concerning the annexing into Gravette.

Hiwasse area residents, and several between Hiwasse and Gravette, are seekingincorporation into Gravette because of their opposition to being incorporated into Bella Vista, a measure that city is attempting through a special election.

Clinard told The Weekly Vista newspaper that it is within his authority to say no to the petition. He thinks it would be in the best interest of Hiwasse residents to remain in the county.

In the meantime, the Bella Vista City Council has authorized a special election seeking annexation of Hiwasse to be held during the May 22 primary. The Election Commission must certify that action.

The Gravette City Council is expected to address the issue at its regular meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Gravette Civic Center.

News, Pages 3 on 02/22/2012