JONESBORO, Ark. — Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver has been named the 2024 Mayor of the Year by the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police. This marks the first time a mayor from Jonesboro has received the honor and comes just days after the city received the Airport of the Year award.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award from the state’s leading voice in professional law enforcement. Each year, our top funding priority has been public safety. We have invested heavily in that effort, and it means a lot to see those efforts recognized on a statewide level,” said Mayor Copenhaver. “This recognition reflects the collective commitment of city staff, Chief Rick Elliott, Assistant Chief Lynn Waterworth, and our police officers and support staff who work daily to keep Jonesboro safe.”
In the past four years, the City of Jonesboro has made significant strides in bolstering public safety, including significant raises in first responder salaries, adding police and enforcement positions, and implementing a real-time crime center equipped with more than 700 cameras. The proactive approach has led to a reduction in crime each year since 2020, even as population and daily commutes continue to grow at a steady pace.
“To see crime go down while the population increases is an anomaly that we are very proud of. Across the nation, we see cities struggle with crime and population loss. We don’t see that happening here, and that isn’t by accident. It’s because of our officers’ efforts and a Mayor who has consistently shown his support for needed investments in public safety,” Jonesboro Police Chief Rick Elliott added.
Additionally, the city has invested millions in public safety equipment and infrastructure, added 15 positions to the Jonesboro Fire Department, and increased E-911 staffing.
The award was presented at the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police annual conference last week in Hot Springs.
“The committee receives numerous nominations every year and makes their selection based on the mayor’s commitment to public safety, as well as how that commitment is evidenced by the quality of life in their communities,” said Gary Sipes, President of the Arkansas Association of Police Chiefs. “His leadership and support enabled the Jonesboro Police Department to effectively combat crime using innovative strategies and cutting-edge technology. We are proud to present Mayor Copenhaver with this prestigious award as the AACP Mayor of the Year.”
The Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police has more than 300 active members representing over 200 law enforcement agencies across the state. The Mayor of the Year award is presented annually for exceptional leadership in advancing public safety and community well-being.
“We pride ourselves on working together as a team to improve Jonesboro. I am happy to accept this award on behalf of our police department and look forward to sharing this honor with the City Council members who supported annual budgets with a heavy focus on keeping our community safe,” Copenhaver stated.
About the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police:
The Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police is dedicated to promoting the professional development of law enforcement agencies and advancing public safety throughout the state of Arkansas. The association provides resources, training, and recognition to law enforcement officials and city leaders committed to ensuring safe communities.
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Funny how that happens just in time for the election.
I think he’s a joke. I honestly can’t tell that he’s accomplished anything the residents have wanted, mainly a mall.