JONESBORO, Ark. — The City of Jonesboro officially acquired the former Shelter Insurance building at 1709 East Highland Drive on Friday, marking a significant step toward consolidating police operations currently spread across five locations.
According to Jonesboro Police Chief Rick Elliott, officers toured the new facility shortly after the transaction was finalized to begin planning its use. The move is expected to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
“This was a wonderful step and a wonderful opportunity,” said Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver. “I’m pleased that city council was able to move it forward, and we’re going to hopefully be available in this building within the next three months.”
The acquisition comes in the wake of the closure of the Justice Complex more than a year ago, which displaced some officers and forced them to work out of alternative locations, including community centers.
Mayor Copenhaver emphasized the mutual benefits of consolidating police operations into two facilities. “Now we can open up the facilities that they’re currently in to be utilized for what their purposes were,” he said. “I want the citizens of this community to be prideful of their policemen as they always are, but more importantly as well, their department.”
Chief Elliott highlighted the enthusiasm among the department’s staff. “My staff all the way around is excited,” he said. “It’ll be a little bit more efficient what we’re doing day in and day out.”
City officials aim to begin operating out of the building within the next few months, which they believe will improve both police services and the use of existing city resources.