Can fire dues increase without citizen vote in Holland, AR?

Question

In Holland, Arkansas, our fire dues increased from $35 to $65 this year without prior notification, and it was not on the last ballot. The change was only noticed on our property tax statement. A Councilperson mentioned that the fire chief requested the increase, and she's pretty sure the council voted on it. There were no communications provided, and the typed council meeting minutes are not easily accessible or posted online. Can a city of the second class make such a decision just by voting on it at a regular business meeting, or does it need to be voted on by the citizens in a special or regular election?

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

In Arkansas, there is a difference between a tax and a fee. Taxes, such as millage rates, generally require a vote of the citizens, while certain fees—like fire dues or service charges—can sometimes be set or adjusted by the city council. Since Holland is a city of the second class, the council does have authority to set fees for municipal services at a regular meeting, provided it is done by ordinance or resolution. 
 
That said, transparency is still required. The council should have voted on the change in an open meeting, and the minutes of that meeting should reflect the decision. Even if citizen approval was not required, residents have a right to know how and when these decisions were made. The lack of public notice or accessible minutes makes it difficult for citizens to hold officials accountable. 
 
Your best step now is to request a copy of the ordinance or resolution that approved the increase. If none exists, or if proper procedure was not followed, you could challenge the validity of the increase. Even if it was legally adopted, pressing the council for clearer communication and public posting of meeting minutes will help prevent similar surprises in the future.

Q: Can fire dues increase without citizen vote in Holland, AR?