WARREN, Ark. – The Warren City Council met for its regular meeting in March 2025, with all six council members present. Mayor Gregg Reep presided, calling the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Department Reports
Police Chief Shaun Hildreth reported ongoing preparations for the new Flock camera system, which will require staff training. Fire Chief Chuck Moore stated that the department responded to 16 calls, including two storage sheds and a vacant house. Jeremy Stringfellow was approved as a new volunteer firefighter.
Sanitation Manager Rob Johnson informed the council that the department remains short one part-time garbage thrower. Council member Latanza Atkins, chair of the Sanitation Committee, reported that the committee unanimously voted to establish a new recycling collection site on city-owned property at the Senior Citizens Center on North Ethridge Street. The full council approved the recommendation 6-0.
Solid Waste Ordinance 966 Approved
In an effort to eliminate a budget deficit in garbage collection, the council passed Ordinance 966 by a 6-0 vote, implementing the following changes:
- A $4 increase in residential garbage collection fees, raising the monthly rate to $21.
- Residential pickup reduced to once per week.
- Each resident and commercial business will receive a 90-gallon trash bin for weekly collection.
- Commercial locations will have twice-weekly pickups at a new rate of $44 per month, or $49 for shared containers.
- Trash must be placed inside the bin in a plastic trash bag and positioned at the curb or in an approved location that does not obstruct storm drainage.
The ordinance included an emergency clause, making it effective as soon as the City can fully implement the full plan, including the 90-gallon trash bins.
Parks and Recreation Updates
The council discussed a job opening for a shooting range ranger at the Warren Shooting Range.
Additionally, rental rates for city facilities were approved unanimously:
- Old Street Shop: $175 per day
- Old Armory: $175 per day
- Train Depot: $225 per day
- Deposit increased from $100 to $125
Camping Ban on City Property
The council voted 6-0 to approve Ordinance 964, prohibiting camping or sleeping on city property to address concerns over unsanitary conditions and fire hazards. The ordinance defines camping as setting up bedding materials or temporary residences, including tents, on public property such as sidewalks and streets. Violators may be removed by authorities. An emergency clause was adopted, making the ordinance effective immediately.
Industrial Land Purchase Agreement
The council addressed a proposed industrial land deal in which the Bradley County Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC) would purchase a 100-acre industrial site northeast of Warren for $953,280, with a 3 percent interest rate and a one-year deferred payment. The site has both highway and railroad access. The City of Warren will lease the property from BCEDC, with lease payments covering the loan amount. BCEDC has agreed to split the payments with the city for the first two years.
During discussions, Council member Latanza Atkins expressed concern over the timing of the deal, stating, “I don’t think the time is right…with all the changes we’re making right now.” She questioned whether the city should explore other methods to attract jobs, noting past challenges in retaining industries.
Council member Joel Tolefree spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of planning for future generations. The council approved authorizing the mayor to develop the contract agreement with BCEDC by a 4-2 vote. Council members Joel Tolefree, Chanelle Hooper, Emily Moseley, and Dorothy Henderson voted in favor, while Latanza Atkins and Memory Burks Frazer opposed. The lease agreement will require annual approval by the city.
Additional Actions
- The council unanimously approved allowing the EAST program at Warren High School to install a safe haven box at the Warren Emergency Services Center using grant funding.
- Phyllis Barnes and Janice Rochell were reappointed to the Civil Service Commission for five-year terms.
