TO AMEND ACTS 1973, NO. 167, § 4, CONCERNING THE SALE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY TO THE WESTARK AREA COUNCIL, INC., BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA.

Scouts gain land rights with limits

The law confirms the Scouts’ ownership of most land covered by the 1991 deed, without state use limits or takeback rights. State agencies must issue deeds releasing those rights to the Natural State Council of Boy Scouts of America. Specifically listed Logan County parcels keep restrictions requiring scouting or other youth recreation uses. Public agencies can use those parcels only without interfering with Boy Scout activities. Arkansas may take the restricted parcels back after five years without an authorized use. The state board can sell the specified parcels for cash or offer a lease lasting up to five years. Rent is $1,000 a year, credited toward the purchase price if the council buys during the lease. The purchase price combines the state’s original land cost, the current appraised value of publicly funded buildings and structures, and estimated sale costs. Before either transaction, the board must certify those amounts, the council must submit a proposal, and the Governor must approve.