The following article is sponsored by First State Bank:
WARREN, Ark. – On the evening of August 14, 2023, the Warren City Council gathered at 5:30 PM for a session that delved into a multitude of topics, ranging from civic appointments and community concerns to proposed studies and infrastructural updates.
The roll call confirmed the presence of the following Aldermen at the meeting:
- Angela Marshall (Present until the end of the executive session)
- Memory Burks-Frazer
- Dorothy Henderson
- Joel Tolefree
- Emily Moseley
- Latanza Atkins
The proceedings commenced with the City Clerk’s Report garnering unanimous approval.
Mayor’s Report: Appointments and Economic Study Proposal
Mayor Gregg Reep’s report began with the announcement of Josh Escamilla’s appointment to the Civil Service Commission, filling the vacancy left by Vol Ford. The Mayor then introduced a proposal from Seth Wyatt, a Master’s student at the Clinton School. Wyatt’s proposal offered a comprehensive economic study, focusing on strategies to attract and engage retail businesses to the Warren community. Notably, the study aimed to identify businesses whose requirements align with Warren’s demographics, while also considering neighboring communities.
The council, with unanimous agreement, not only approved the study but also authorized a small financial allocation to assist Mr. Wyatt with transportation between Little Rock and Warren when necessary.
Public Comments: A Platform for Citizen Concerns and Suggestions
The public comments segment provided citizens with an opportunity to voice their concerns and suggestions, serving as a direct avenue for community input. Ms. Waneta Jones expressed her unease over the burgeoning number of vape shops within Warren. Specifically, she noted the establishment of a new vape shop within the premises of the former Martin Street pawn shop, adjacent to the Warren City Park. Jones raised concerns about businesses not being locally owned, and the potential lack of reinvestment in the Warren community.
Mr. Billy Joe Harding added his voice, detailing a grievance related to a property in proximity to his residence. He cited issues with inadequate cleanup efforts, noise emanating from a donkey on the premises, and unpleasant odors impacting his living conditions.
Furthermore, Mrs. Virginia Phillips addressed the council, highlighting the state of street repairs on Butler and Pierson Streets. She stated the need for wider streets.
Police Chief’s Report and Traffic Management
Police Chief Shaun Hildreth’s comprehensive report shed light on the department’s operational landscape. A notable highlight was the introduction of new police vehicles, contributing to the city’s safety infrastructure. Hildreth proudly shared that the police patrol was operating at full staff, ensuring efficient and timely responses to community needs. Alderman Joel Tolefree took the opportunity to raise concerns about the traffic dynamics near the local Elementary School, now sharing premises with other District schools. Hildreth assured the council that preparations were underway to manage the upcoming school year’s traffic flow effectively.
Animal Shelter Ordinance
With a unanimous decision, the council adopted Ordinance No. 949, which addresses the challenge of overcrowding at the Warren Animal Shelter. This ordinance outlines a timeline for holding stray and unidentified dogs at the shelter before the necessary action is taken. With an emergency clause also adopted, meaning the ordinance will go into effect immediately, dogs will be kept at the Warren Animal Shelter for a minimum of 5 days and a maximum of 21 days before being euthanized. The City is reported to have been forced to spend over $6,000 on animal boarding at the Warren Animal Clinic since January due to a massive overcrowding problem at the Warren Shelter.
Fire Department Updates
Fire Chief Chuck Moore’s report offered insights into the Fire Department’s activities. The department responded to a total of 17 calls in July, with four incidents requiring tone-out. Additionally, the department’s success in securing a matching grant for Air Packs signaled a dedication to equipping their team with the best resources available.
Sanitation and Building Progress
Sanitation Manager Rob Johnson provided an overview of personnel developments, highlighting a job opening for a full-time CDL driver and a position for trash throwing. Building Official Rob Johnson detailed the ongoing progress in the city’s infrastructural landscape. A notable update pertained to a construction project in the old CATO’s building. The building was originally two properties with separate owners who leased or rented to CATO’s. The building is being re-separated into two.
Property Condemnation and Advisory Council Engagement
A comprehensive discussion ensued regarding two properties facing condemnation. The council reviewed the case of a property on Phillips Street, prompted by a citizen’s complaint. The property in question harbored inoperable vehicles and other issues. Alderman Joel Tolefree’s motion to grant the property owner a further 90 days to rectify the situation was met with unanimous agreement. The property owner has been sick, but other people have been helping to make some progress on the property’s cleanup.
The discussion extended to a property on South Myrtle, which had been previously mentioned by citizen Billy Joe Harding. The Building Official, Mr. Johnson, noted that some progress had been made in addressing the concerns, but citizen Harding remained dissatisfied. Mayor Reep emphasized the importance of thorough evaluation, suggesting a joint effort between the council and the Advisory Council to ensure an informed decision. There was then a discussion held about the role of the Advisory Council and their role in property condemnation recommendations. The council unanimously endorsed Alderman Angela Marshall’s motion to initiate a second written notification to the property owner, affording them three weeks to bring the property up to code.
Executive Session, Community Engagement, and Future Plans
Following a discussion in an executive session about a personal matter, the meeting continued with Alderman Angela Marshall’s departure, leaving five members present. The remaining members voted 4-0-1 in favor of a financial allocation of $2,500 for a contract with the South Arkansas Fair and Marketing Association.
The Parks and Recreation Director, Kyle Wagnon, shared positive developments within the department. New lights were being installed at the sports complex, and scoreboards sponsored by Joey Cathey State Farm Insurance were now enhancing the community’s recreational experience. Wagnon also highlighted infrastructural improvements, with the softball field’s fence transitioning from a movable structure to a permanent installation.
Mayor Reep’s closing report touched on various city initiatives. An examination of the plumbing underneath the Cultural Center revealed no issues or leaks.
In light of the upcoming Labor Day holiday, it was announced that the Municipal Building would be closed on September 4. However, the sanitation workers would continue their efforts to ensure seamless trash pickup. They are given a choice to take off and have chosen to continue their work that day.
The next meeting is scheduled for September 11 at 5:30 PM.
Watch the complete council meeting below: