Council names new bridge after Don Earley

SPRINGTOWN -- Town council members approved a motion to name the new bridge on Aubrey Long Road after the late Don Earley, and plans are being made to develop a water park along Flint Creek near the new bridge.

According to draft minutes of the Springtown Council's Jan. 10 meeting, Mayor Paul Lemke asked the council members for their thoughts on naming the town's new bridge on Aubrey Long Road the Don Earley Memorial Bridge.

Earley was an alderman from the time the town's charter was reactivated in 1996 until his resignation in 2010 due to declining health, according to draft minutes.

A motion was made to so name the bridge and have a sign erected showing the new name, minutes state. The motion was made by Kay Taylor, seconded by Amanda Richards and approved by all.

Lemke said donations would be taken for the project.

Lemke also reported that he planned to contact Delia Haak to get information about setting up a water park at the new park area by the Don Earley Memorial Bridge. He said he would have Haak contact Amanda Richardson for follow up.

Lemke requested that the council choose a date for the annual town barbecue next summer. After some discussion, the council chose Saturday, June 7, from 3 to 7 p.m., for the event. The Park Committee will begin preparations.

Lemke reported that a salt and sand spreader was purchased and installed for use on the town's tractor. Lemke said the town is still waiting for a response from its appeal of FEMA's request that the town return money not used directly on the Aubrey Long Bridge construction project. He said he would continue to follow up.

Lemke said there are several old items -- filing cabinets, fan, lawn canopy, TV, etc. -- that have accumulated which the town has not used in several years and which need to be disposed of. Carla Wasson, the town's attorney, will check into the proper procedure to dispose of these items, draft minutes state.

Lemke reported that he has spoken with the appropriate persons in Gentry and Benton County about the possibility of getting help with enforcing the town's animal control ordinance -- there are a few dogs which are reportedly creating a nuisance in the town.

General News on 01/22/2014