GRAVETTE — Only six people spoke during the Gravette City Council public hearing concerning the voluntary Hiwasse annexation question Thursday evening.

The hearing, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, was followed by the regular council meeting.

Brief quotes from those speaking included:

Leon Bertschy, who was instrumental in securing signatures from residents in the proposed area to be annexed - “Nobody thought it could be done. Some drove great distances to sign the petitions; some were very emotional.” He thanked all for their help, including the county clerk and other county officials, and also the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission.

Jim Parsons - “Thanks to (Gravette) Mayor Byron Warren, Larry Kelly, who was instrumental in helping organize the Hiwasse Community Associationand Bertschy. I like to see Americans, all of you, dreams fulfilled.” He also repeated a quote very familiar to all Americans; "The people rule."

Bill Williams suggested it would be wise to postpone action, “to have a little time to get our facts together; take due time.” He suggested “90 days” and meeting with Centerton, Gravette and Bella Vista.”

Bonnie Walker noted that “100 percent signed, willing to go to Gravette. We need to go ahead and annex,” she declared.

Vickie Buchanan noted, “Some said it will be a serious mistake to annex intoGravette.” But she added, two Bella Vista alderman “had a big meeting on how to annex Hiwasse into Bella Vista by counting on us to delay.”

Jerry Snow, newly appointed alderman for Bella Vista, and fellow alderman Jim Wozinack were present during the meeting and Snow spoke for both. “Both Jim and I support the people of Hiwasse.” He indicated the “Bella Vista Council thought the decisions they had made were in the best interest of Bella Vista; but they did it the wrong way,” he added. “I congratulate the people of Hiwasse,” he declared.

News, Pages 5 on 04/04/2012