City of Searcy Recognized as Trendsetter City Awardee by Arkansas Business Magazine
The City of Searcy is proud to announce its recognition as a Trendsetter City by Arkansas Business Magazine. The city won two awards in both the Diversity and Inclusion and the Public Works categories, and honorable mentions in Education and Workforce Development as well as Technology and Security.
Searcy’s first ever Cinco de Mayo celebration was recognized with the top award in the Diversity and Inclusion category. Produced by Beats & Eats with the support of the El Puente Hispanic Service organization and many community volunteers, this marked the first public event highlighting the diversity and importance of Searcy’s growing Hispanic community. It was one of the most highly attended public cultural events of the year, drawing a wide range of people into downtown Searcy with a mix of vibrant decor, national dress, music, dance, food and a mercado.
In October, the city completed a year-long, comprehensive strategic planning process that resulted in a 20-year Master Plan, which will be used as a roadmap for development as Searcy improves quality of life for its citizens and those who come into the city from neighboring communities. What was unique about the process was that three master plans were developed in tandem for parks, active transportation, and infrastructure. This approach and the resulting plans for improvements across these categories secured Searcy the award in the Public Works category.
In the Education and Workforce Development category, Searcy received an honorable mention for its nationally-recognized Robotics programs. The efforts of educators, student team members, families and volunteers, as well as the support of the Searcy A & P Commission, resulted in Searcy being chosen as the host city for the annual FIRST Robotics Regional Competition, formerly held in Little Rock. Searcy’s investment in STEAM activities will build the next generation of skilled, educated workers.
Searcy also received an honorable mention in the Technology and Security category. The Searcy Police Department secured a state-of-the-art MILO training system and established a regional training center in a space provided by the Searcy School District. This immersive, realistic training system contains customizable scenarios that allow officers to test their reactions and decision making in a safe setting, improving public safety. In addition to training for SPD officers, the system will be available to any local agency in White County as well as Lonoke, Cleburne, Independence, Jackson, and Prairie Counties.
"This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our community members and city employees who strive to make Searcy a dynamic and inclusive place to live and work,” Mayor Mat Faulkner said. “It's an honor to see our efforts recognized on a statewide platform."
The Trendsetter City award from Arkansas Business acknowledges cities that are pioneering positive change and setting new standards for excellence. Searcy's success in multiple categories reflects the City's holistic approach to community development, emphasizing diversity, public works, education, workforce development, and technology.
Searcy was featured in the December 18, 2023 issue of Arkansas Business and will be recognized at their awards banquet in January 2024. The issue can be found at https://view.publitas.com/abpg-89abx6p_3ypk/trendsettercity-2023/page/1.