Voters approve sales tax to fund new water park

OSCEOLA, Ark. (KAIT) - In Tuesday’s special election, Osceola voters approved a one-cent sales tax to build a new water park.

It will feature a lap pool, a lazy river, and three different water slides that can be used year-round.

Mayor Joe Harris, Jr., said they had to give their residents something to do.

“We have attracted workers into this town, but it is important that we attract the entire family,” he said. “We want the mother and the kids to say they want to move to Osceola because we will have something to do here.”

When asked what is there to do in his hometown, Don Wilson said there is little to offer.

“We have nothing, of course,” he said. “This would be great. It is going to be an improvement to the golf course and everything else.”

The water park will be located next to the golf course and across the street from Walmart.

Harris said that spot was chosen to try and get the attention of people passing by.

“You can see that particular location for three miles on Interstate 55 going north. You can see it for five miles going south,” Harris said. “They are going to be able to see the towers from the water park.”

Along with the water park, upgrades will be made to other parks around town.

The city was given a 5-acre fishing pond by an industrial company that the state is going to fill with fish and will be open to everyone.

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