BENTONVILLE -- Northwest Arkansas National Airport and Highfill officials reached an agreement Monday afternoon that should end years of litigation and allow the airport to disengage from the city.

The sides negotiated in court-ordered mediation for about six hours Monday before announcing the memorandum of understanding agreement. The airport Board of Directors approved the agreement before adjourning a special meeting called for the purpose of negotiating an agreement.

"So, the lawyers have jointly drafted this, the lawyers for Highfill and your lawyers. It is a framework that's consistent with what your goals were that you stated to us in our non-public meeting about settlement. I am comfortable with that document; it will bring about the end of the litigation if it's approved by both

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