Council reviews a sundry of topics for 2026 start

After a substantial break for the holidays, city council reconvened on Monday, Jan. 12, for a budget workshop and the first regular meeting of the year. With a full month having passed, the agenda was laden with ground to cover.

Council reviewed the 2026 budget, which projects $14 million in revenues and $13.7 million in expenses, leaving an estimated $277,000 increase.

Fire Chief Gary Inman readdressed plans to purchase stair chairs to reduce injuries, upgrade vehicle rescue tools, refurbish rescue vehicles, and implement a five percent salary increase for his staff. A new training facility on Hwy. 23 South, built with volunteer labor, is expected to be completed by early summer.

Finance Director Michael Akins explained that when budgeting for the year ahead, salaries across all departments are calculated upwards with a five percent increase, three percent for cost of living raises, and two percent for merit raises.

Public Works Director Simon Wiley answered questions about crash barriers he intends to purchase this year. Also discussed was the allocation of $20,000-$50,000 for sidewalks improvements. An eight percent water rate increase occurred this month. The next planned increase is for Jan. 2027.

The transit department approved funding for a $75,000 fuel tank and pump system as diesel trams have been phased out by manufacturers. Revenue from tram tours has dropped 15 percent, and new revenue streams such as paid parking at the top of Planer Hill are being explored.

Permanent Entertainment District

Council voted to postpone a decision on a Downtown Permanent Entertainment District (PED) following a lengthy discussion revealing both support and concerns among aldermen and the community.

The proposed district would allow people to carry alcoholic beverages outdoors within a designated downtown area prospectively from South Main up to Brews. Kolin Paulk, owner of Spring on Main, outlined a communication plan that would include a single city webpage, QR codes, wristbands, and window signage to make rules clear for business owners, tourists, and residents.

The PED would be restricted to the hours of 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with drinks served in designated containers. Paulk suggested these containers be marked with logos by participating business. Businesses would also have the option to opt out of the district.

Several aldermen raised concerns. Some noted that voters previously rejected a similar proposal before the COVID-19 pandemic and said certain downtown residents and businesses, particularly those outside the district’s proposed boundaries, would remain opposed. Aldermen questioned whether the district would benefit retailers, suggesting that people carrying drinks are less likely to shop.

Alderman David Avanzino said that his and many other US62 businesses felt they were being excluded and questioned who would benefit. He expressed concerns about public safety, noise, litter, and extra strain on police and city resources. He also questioned whether alcohol-serving businesses could face increased liability for overserving.

Paulk responded that city staff, including both the police and fire chiefs had been consulted, and that startup costs (for wristbands, signage, and window-clings) would be relatively low. He added that alcohol-serving businesses already bear liability for overserving and must account for that with training for themselves and their employees. Alderman Susane Gruning noted that the district would not be an ongoing event, but a decision made “in order to keep the city vibrant and compete with other neighboring towns.”

In the end, alderman Steve Holifield made the motion to postpone the decision to allow for some more research and public input, with alderman Terry McClung seconding. Aldermen thanked Paulk for his due diligence in compiling the proposal.

Queen Anne purchase on its way to finalization

Parks Director Sam Dudley discussed the possible purchase of city owned property adjacent to Queen Anne. The owners of Queen Anne, Rod and Jill Slane, have offered the city $50,000. Alderman Rachael Moyer asked the Slanes whether access to the neighboring parking lot would be granted if Parks were to build the proposed trails. The couple told council they would be happy to grant access during regular business hours.

Aldermen inquired about Parks’ plan to utilize the property. Dudley said it would likely take about a month to build the trail, with major costs focused on building a kiosk and signage, which he estimated at around $20,000. Dudley said he’d always wanted to create trail access from US62 to Black Bass Lake and said the project could be completed largely by Parks employees using their own equipment.

Avanzino asked the Slanes about the proposed cabin development, saying he would like to view the grounds in person. The Slanes explained that cabins would be a “phase three” project planned for the west side of the property. Their plans also include an expanded parking lot exit.

McClung motioned for preparation of the sale documents that would include easement deed language and secure parking access. Moyer said she would feel more comfortable reviewing the finalized contract before fully approving the sale. Council voted to accept the offer, contingent upon those conditions.

Sidewalks

Gruning led the continued conversation to address deteriorating sidewalks; especially those for which homeowners are legally responsible. She noted safety concerns in her ward where children are forced to step into the street to avoid damaged sidewalks and places where tree roots are lifting old pavement. Per Mayor Butch Berry’s request, Building Inspector Paul Sutherland and Planning Director Cassie Dishman surveyed sidewalks around town, rating them by number to prioritize repair. The two presented the report and said that letters would first be sent to critical problem areas, referred to as 1 and 2 areas. Their aim is to explore legal ways to encourage repairs while respecting code requirements and managing expectations.

Avanzino said the city needs to revisit the existing sidewalk ordinance, comparing sidewalks to long-term infrastructure like the water and sewer systems that will not “go away.” Ultimately, he made a motion for the Planning Commission to organize a workshop to revisit the city’s sidewalk ordinance, marking the next step in addressing ongoing sidewalk challenges.

OTHER BUSINESS:

• Gruning and Avanzino were appointed to CAPC positions 5 & 6.
• Steve Holifield was nominated and voted as Mayor Pro-Tem.
• Resolution #901 to support the State-Run Federal Surplus Property Program passed unanimously. Provides federal surplus property vehicles, equipment, and other assets to Arkansas public agencies.
• Wiley reported that Public Works is repairing a clay sewer line at the bottom of Mountain St., and water leaks are at a minimum. They have replaced broken stairs and will res-stain soon on Tibbs Alley. The street sweeper is being repaired.