Mansfield City Council Meets

Several items of business were on tap for the meeting of the Mansfield City Council, which was held on Thursday, April 18. After approving the minutes of the March meeting, and reviewing the financial statements, the council heard the municipal reports.

Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker reported on the upcoming events for the Dixie Theatre. Public Works Director, Charlie Little, reported on maintenance projects throughout the city as well as training for city employees. Stephen Haysmer, Fire Chief, reported things were going well within his department and that members were participating in training. New members, Stacy Wieburg and Kelly Perez, were approved to join the MVFD. Newly appointed Police Chief Wayne Robb reported that he had brought on a new officer, Joey Bolin. Bolin is a former Scott County deputy for the Sheriff’s Office. City attorney, Matt Ketcham presented the council members with a prepared document to revise the city’s engine breaking ordinance. The new ordinance removed the trademarked “Jake” breaking. Lastly, Chamber of Commerce President Mike Gipson reported on the success of recent fundraisers. Mayor Black also presented Gipson with a mock street sign. The city will be renaming 1st Street “Gipson Lane.” –See related story

The city’s grant writer, Shelby Allen reported on the status of current grant applications. She said she is hopeful about one grant in particular. That grant would be used to reconstruct the out-dated and dangerous one lane bridges on either side of the elementary school. “I think we can present a really good case,” explained Allen. “These bridges are very dangerous.” Lastly, Allen reported on the importance of participating in the upcoming US Census.

In the last order of unfinished business, Mayor Black reported that Landmark Engineering found “an area of significant infiltration near the water treatment plant” during the recent smoke test. The test was done to prepare an estimate for upgrades on the plant. These upgrades will allow the city to handle the additional liquid volume from the juveniles treatment facility.

In matters of new business, the council voted to approve the purchase and contract services for four years, providing the city workers with uniforms.

Mayor Black shared with the council his contact with the Arkansas Department of Transportation regarding signage for Highway 96/Huntington Ave. There have been dangerous traffic situations created by large and overweight trucks turning near the grade school and crossing the one lane bridge. “God forbid that happen when school is taking up or letting out,” added Black. The goal is to add proper signage to the highway and divert traffic properly.

The date for the county-wide clean up is May 11. Sebastian County workers will be on hand to supervise and will also be checking ID’s to ensure that people are either Sebastian County or Mansfield City residents.

Before adjourning the following announcements were made: United Way Day of Caring will be April 25 and the Dixie Theatre Fundraisers will be May 11 and May 18.