West Ward Alderman Joe Stark announced his immediate, albeit bittersweet, resignation at Southwest City's regular council meeting on Sept. 13.
Stark explained that he has recently moved and subsequently no longer meets requirements to hold the position.
"My only regret is not doing it 10 years ago," he said. "It's been a lot of fun."
Those that live on the west side of town and are interested in representing the ward may submit their name for consideration at City Hall.
Departmental Reports
Standing in for Jackie Coatney, Brian Cane informed the council that the Fire Department recently received a new vehicle from the Department of Conservation.
Cane also reported that the Water Department has flushed 15,200 gallons of water since installing two new flush-valves in town.
He noted that the road has been repaired around the north water tower and at the end of Honey Lake Acres. The Street Department trimmed trees along Broadway to accommodate bus clearance.
Employees have trimmed branches along the walking trail at Blankenship Park as well. They are also working to remove the fence along the north side of the park. Cane said that he is researching the price of rebuilding the fence in the correct location.
Police Chief Bud Gow provided aldermen with a copy of the proposed vagrancy ordinance for review.
Gow noted that he and Officer Raphael Ramirez are working to receive their additional training hours.
Gow also provided the council with a quote for an eight-channel HD security system for the station. It includes four indoor cameras, four indoor/outdoor cameras, and stores up to one month of footage. The council voted to purchase the system and a monitor for approximately $800.
City Clerk Missy Zinn said that Mayor Joe Carpenter, who could not be in attendance, has been working with a business to bring a cell tower into town.
Zinn asked permission to purchase 1,000 Halloween treat bags and pencils. The council voted to purchase both items.
In other business:
• The council voted to accept a bid of $13,300 from Northwest Arkansas Roofing for a new roof on City Hall and the Police Department.
• The council voted to change the name of one of the city accounts from Water Deposit to Utility Reserve.
• The Fire Department raised $1,455.09 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
• The council voted to hold the annual Fall Clean-Up on Friday, Oct. 14, and Saturday, Oct. 15.
• The owners of 215 Ridge St. did not appear. The council agreed that, so long as continuous progress is made on the property and the owners stay in contact, no further action needs to be taken.
General News on 09/22/2016