GRAVETTE — Gravette City Council’s Committee of the Whole meeting last week wasn’t the four-plus hour marathon of a recent meeting. No official business was conducted during the two-hour session, but several items were discussed for possible action at the regular official meeting which will be held Thursday, March 28.
Those items include considering purchase of a new ambulance for the ever-busy emergency staff which now operates used vehicles. Fire Chief David Smith presented three bids to the council, the lowest being $165,530 from the firm, Road Rescue. Both other bids topped $193,000.
Tim DeWitt, streets and utilities, presented four bids for repair of the old city hall roof. The specifications listed on the bids varied greatly as to type of material used, asphalt or metal, and extent of repair to the building structure. Bids ranged from $12,000 up to more than $50,000.
DeWitt also presented three bids for purchase of a new power mower, the lowest being $8,183.23 from Bobcat of NWA in Rogers; the other bids, which did not involve trade-ins, ranged upwards to more than $12,000.
Ordinance Proposal
Four ordinances for consideration were presented by Scott Gillming, the city’s code enforcement officer. One dealt with approving new fire, mechanical and materials codes; others would establish procedures for condemning and removing nuisance buildings, set fines for violation of city codes and define action involving hazardous trees.
An ordinance was discussed agreeing to cover firefighters and police officers by the Arkansas Local Police Fire Retirement System (LOPFI).
Council members heard that a public hearing will be held to rezone Loydon Oaks Subdivision, near Gordon Hollow Road west of Hiwasse, from the present Agricultural-1 classification to R-1 single family residence.
The council learned the Ridge Road water line extension is progressing, though one property owner refuses to let the line cross his property. They also learned the sewer plant upgrade project is expected to start soon and the storm drainage project at El Paso and Second SW is scheduled to begin.
A use agreement between the city and the Boys and Girls club, which expires in May, was discussed, but no report by a committee to consider the agreement was presented.
A proposed agreement with Deffenbaugh for trash service was presented which will establish polycart pickup for Gravette, including newly-annexed land. The cost will be $9.96 for a 96 cubic-yard container and, if needed, $4.10 for an additional container.
The council also learned that documents have been submitted to the Arkansas State Parks Department which will authorize work to start on a skate park in Pop Allum Park. A grand opening for the park is tentatively set for mid-May if the project is completed.
Discussion was held on making the drive through Hillcrest Cemetery one way with entrance at the north end of the cemetery and exit at the south. This will prevent bottlenecks during funeral services.
Reports from the library, communications and resource efficiency were also received.
News, Pages 4 on 03/27/2013