Gurdon Marshal Office

06/08/2026

Due to the number of people who have contacted us asking when the next City Council meeting will be held, we wanted to share the information with everyone.

The next Gurdon City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 6:30 PM at Gurdon City Hall.

This meeting is expected to include the second reading of the proposed ordinance that would change the City Marshal position from an elected office to an appointed position. Following the required readings, the City Council is expected to hold a final vote during the third reading.

If you have thoughts, concerns, or opinions regarding this proposed change, now is the time to make your voice heard. If you would like to speak during the meeting, you may need to contact City Hall in advance to be added to the agenda. (870-353-2514)

Regardless of your position on the issue, we encourage all interested citizens to attend, stay informed, and participate in the process. The future of local law enforcement leadership in Gurdon is an important matter, and citizen involvement is an important part of that process.

05/03/2026

🚨COMMUNITY NOTICE🚨

The Gurdon City Council will discuss a proposal to change the Marshal position from elected to appointed on May 12th at 6:30 PM at Gurdon City Hall.

We know our community values and supports our Marshal’s Office. If you support keeping the Marshal elected, please attend and show your support. If you’d like to speak, call 870-353-2514 to be placed on the agenda.

Gurdon is the last city in Arkansas with an elected Marshal. Just because we’re the last doesn’t mean it should change.

Under an appointed system, the Marshal would follow the mayor’s direction and could be replaced without cause. If a mayor lacks law enforcement experience, decisions could be made based on factors other than public safety. This might put our citizens at risk if decisions aren’t made with law enforcement expertise.

An elected Marshal is chosen by the people and makes independent decisions focused on protecting and serving the community—not politics.

Your voice matters—come out, stay informed, and be heard.

Note: Any changes will not affect Marshal Don Childres’ term ending December 31, 2026.

04/19/2026

04/17/2026

We are currently investigating an incident involving potential students making harassing phone calls. Our investigation has confirmed that one call originated from a student in another school district. At this time, we have not confirmed that any calls were made by our students. Other school districts are assisting us in identifying the sources of the phone numbers. The case remains ongoing, and we will not tolerate any form of harassment.

04/08/2026

The Gurdon Marshal Office is pleased to welcome Beau Walker as the new Chaplain for the Gurdon Marshal Office.

Beau Walker serves as the Lead Pastor of New South Fork Baptist Church and the Director of Banner Hope Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center. He is married to his wife, Alicia, and is a proud father of five and grandfather to three.

In 2011, Beau Walker surrendered his life to the Lord, leaving behind a criminal past and embracing a transformed life characterized by grace, purpose, and service. His unwavering commitment lies in serving his community with compassion and providing unwavering support to those facing their most challenging circumstances, offering hope, assistance, and the transformative message of Christ’s redeeming power.

Beau Walker eagerly anticipates his new role as Chaplain for the Gurdon Marshal Office.

04/07/2026

The burn ban remains in effect until released by the county judge. As of now, there has not been sufficient rainfall to warrant its lifting, according to officials.

03/25/2026

CLARK COUNTY HAS BEEN PLACED UNDER A BURN BAN AGAIN UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

02/28/2026

CLARK COUNTY HAS BEEN PLACED UNDER A BURN BAN UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

01/27/2026

ROAD CONDITIONS UPDATE

Some of the major highways have been treated and are beginning to wear down. They are semi-passable, but only at very slow speeds and with extreme caution.

The majority of side streets and less-traveled roads remain solid ice and are still almost impossible to travel safely. Conditions can change quickly, especially after dark.

If you do not absolutely have to be out, please stay home. If you must travel, slow down, increase following distance, and be prepared for sudden loss of traction.

Your safety—and the safety of first responders—depends on smart decisions.