The bill amends existing laws regarding municipal planning areas in Arkansas, specifically focusing on the requirements for notice and compensation to property owners affected by public use facilities or mapped streets. It stipulates that after a community facilities plan or master street plan is adopted, no private development can occur on designated parcels until the relevant public authority has either executed a written option negotiated in good faith with the property owner or filed for condemnation. If the public authority fails to act within one year of the property owner's request, the land will be released from reservation, and the authority must compensate the owner for any diminished value during the reservation period.

Additionally, the bill enhances the notification process for public hearings related to proposed plans, ordinances, and regulations. It mandates that notice be sent via first-class mail to affected landowners, ensuring they have a reasonable opportunity to provide comments on the proposals. This requirement is in addition to existing notification obligations to school districts and the publication of hearing notices in local newspapers. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency and fairness in municipal planning processes while protecting property owners' rights.

Statutes affected:
HB 1448: 14-56-412(g), 14-56-422(1)