WARREN, Ark. – The City of Warren held its June 2023 City Council Meeting on Monday evening at the Warren Municipal Building. Mayor Gregg Reep presided over the meeting, which covered a range of important topics and decisions for the city’s future.
The meeting began with the approval of the minutes and the City Clerk’s report. Mayor Reep announced the resignation of Vol Ford from the Civil Service Commission, prompting Council member Memory Burks-Frazer to express the council’s search for a suitable replacement for the vacant position.
In addition, Mayor Reep announced the appointment of local businessman Randall Raney to the Community Development Advisory Committee.
During the meeting, the council entered into an executive session, although no action was taken during this time.
Citizen Willy Thomas took the opportunity to address the council regarding concerns about limb piles near 1120 Boyd. The limbs had been cut by Entergy, and Mayor Reep assured the citizen that the city would contact Entergy to address the cleanup of the limb piles.
Police Chief Shaun Hildreth provided his monthly report, announcing the arrival of a second new police vehicle that will soon be in service.
In a significant move, the council adopted Ordinance No. 948, which focuses on firearm usage within the city limits. The Council asked Police Chief Hildreth if he was good with the ordinance as it was written prior to the unanimous vote in favor of adopting the new ordinance.
Another important decision was made in the realm of animal control. The council approved the writing of a new ordinance to address overcrowding issues at the pound and the high costs of boarding stray animals at the Warren Animal Clinic. The new ordinance will stipulate that stray dogs at the Animal Shelter will be kept for a minimum of five days and a maximum of 21 before being euthanized. If overcrowding persists, the council will explore the possibility of expanding the shelter. Council member Burks-Frazer highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership, noting that if an owner doesn’t realize their dog is missing within 21 days, they may not be a responsible owner.
Fire Chief Chuck Moore reported that the Fire Department responded to 12 calls in May, with only 2 requiring action.
Sanitation Manager Rob Johnson commended the performance of the new garbage truck, which has been doing an excellent job.
Johnson also provided the Building Official’s report, mentioning the completion of the final inspection for the new Warren Elementary School. Johnson praised the quality of the building, emphasizing its positive contribution to the community.
Additionally, he discussed the progress on the cleanup of the Bryant’s Building. The inspector’s report is expected in the coming days, and if everything goes well, the remaining brick wall can be safely taken down by hand. Subsequently, heavy equipment will be brought in for the cleanup of the rubble. The final report on the neighboring Church building will be submitted to the City soon by the inspector.
Street Foreman Monty Hearnsberger shared his monthly report, which included tasks such as bushhogging, repairing street signs, and conducting cleanup operations before and after the Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival.
The council voted against a request for parking signs on the street in front of a business on South Myrtle Street. However, they approved the bidding process for a half-ton truck to be used by the Street and Sanitation Departments.
Parks and Recreation Commission Director Kyle Wagnon updated the council on the progress of the City Pool repair work, noting its successful completion and reopening. The council also approved the city’s application for two grants to further repair the pool, including fixing a leak.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for July 10th, 2023, where additional matters affecting the city’s development and well-being will be discussed and decided upon.
Overall, the June 2023 City Council Meeting showcased the City of Warren’s commitment to progress, public safety, and community development. With each decision made, the city moves closer to a brighter future for its residents and businesses alike.
Where can we find information on ordinance 948?
Killing dogs after 5 days is very upsetting to hear. Some people just may not know where to look for their dogs that got out of a fenced in yard. To learn they didn’t have time to look everywhere before their pet was killed is disturbing. Please look into that more closely. Post pictures on Social Media to help people find their pets. Maybe look at more options to help people with the high cost of getting pets neutered, etc.