Storm cuts short Gravette meeting

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

— Tornado warning sirens sounded in Gravette Thursday night, cutting short Gravette City Council’s committee meeting. The regular agenda of the session was almost completed when the sirens were triggered shortly after 8 p.m. in response to weather bureau warnings. No funnel clouds werereported as the storm center bypassed the area. The county warning system was also activated.

The meeting, which began at 6 p.m., was set to resume at 6 p.m. this Tuesday.

Actions and discussions at the committee meeting included various reports and other business including:

Efforts are being made to secure financing for a new ambulance to replace one of the two old ambulances which were purchased used several years ago. The new vehicle is expected to cost about $120,000 with an expected lifespan of at least 10 years.

The city recently received approximately $22,000 from the county to assist with costs of operating Gravette’s ambulancewhich serves a wide area including Sulphur Springs, Maysville and Decatur and rural areas. Some additional funds are available but when the project can be culminated is uncertain.

“The new ambulance is not a want; it’s a need,” said Chuck Skaggs, who presented the report.

Vandalism Reported

Mayor Byron Warren reported that vandalism has again occurred at the old sewer lift station and behind the public library, as well as to park benches. Mention was made that strict curfew enforcement and public service by guilty parties might help solve the problem.

The street department has been patching cuts and potholes in city streets now that warmer weather has arrived. It was reported that coordinating paving of Lime Kiln Road with the county, which is partial owner of the traffic artery, is still in the works. Cost to the city is estimated at $26,000.

Library Director Kim Schneider reported that she and the library were honored with a feature story in the current issue of “Arkansas Libraries” recognizing efforts and improvements made during recent months at the library.

Mayor Warren reported that only two members of the Gravette PlanningCommission attended that group’s most recent meeting. A new Arkansas law approved during the recent legislative session allows cities of second class or incorporated towns to “allow the city council to serve as the planning commission and board of adjustment.” Copies were distributed and this is expected to receive further discussion.

The council was told that because the pillars located at the northwest entrance to Kindley Memorial Park are deteriorating, consideration is being given to replacing them with replicas. Sam Green of Green Heart Realty is working with the city to complete this project involving these historic columns. The Museum Commission is expected to have input, Mayor Warren said.

The mayor reported that new power outlets are being planned for Old Town Park in time for use on Gravette Day in August. He said he also envisions construction of an amphitheater in that park where programs, concerts, etc. could be held.

Sewer Update

Turning to the city’s sewer treatment project Warren said discussion with engineering firms is continuing and the council will be informed when action can be considered. He also said a project to extend a 6-inch water line on Rocky Dell and Ridge Road, replacing an existing 2-inch line, is moving forward.

The council gave city approval of a new two-yearcontract to the Boys and Girls Club for use of the Civic Center. That action will require action at a meeting of the council.

The council was shown a new plaque to be installed in Centennial Park at the historic caboose. State Representative Mary Lou Slinkard is responsible for funds to purchase the plaque. Warren also reported the caboose is scheduled to receive a new coat of red paint soon.

Christy Bramel, Kylie Overturf and Emily Price, members of the Gravette Girl Scout Troop, presented a plan which will allow them to paint a mural at the entrance of the swimming pool which is being refurbished. This project was approved.

Mayor Warren read a proclamation designating May as National History Preservation Month.

Allyson Ransom informed the council that, with the assistance of former mayor Bill Howard, all ordinances relating to changes in property zoning during the past 10 years have been researched.

These are being supplied to the Regional Planning Commission for an update of their records. That commission will provide updated maps to the city.

These are prepared at no cost since Gravette is a member of the regional commission.

At the Tuesday night meeting financing reports were expected to be reviewed, as well as any other business which might be added to an updated agenda.

News, Pages 1 on 04/20/2011