GENTRY -- Following is the full text of the Gentry State of the City address delivered by Gentry's mayor, Kevin Johnston, during the March 2 city council meeting:
"It is, once again, my pleasure to present you with the 2015 State of the City address.
"Together, we have seen many changes over the past four years. With the help of our citizens, employees, volunteers, elected officials, corporate partners and regional and state agencies, we have been able to accomplish many goals.
"Financially, we have been conservative and disciplined, yet still committed to provide our citizens with the services that they deserve. We are continuing to rebound from our national recession, as we have witnessed continual growth in our city's revenues.
"During 2014, our police department witnessed an increase of 17 percent in calls for service over the previous year and an increase of 60 percent over the past four years. The installation of dash cams in our patrol units was completed, adding not only a tool for evidentiary purposes but also an additional level of protection for our officers and citizens. Also during this past year, our city received a ranking of fifth on the SafeWise 30 Safest Cities in Arkansas list.
"Our fire department experienced increases in calls for service as well, with 9 percent over 2013 and a 13 percent increase over the past four years. The new substation at the corner of Taylor Orchard and Marion Lee Roads is nearing completion and will offer added protection to industries, schools and residents to the southwest portion of our city.
"Over the past four years, our public works department has completed the installation of nearly 3½ miles of new or replacement water and sewer lines, with more than 2¼ miles of waterlines being installed during 2014 alone. An addition of nearly 2 miles is projected for 2015. Street improvements over the past four years have totaled nearly 11 miles of resurfacing, and an additional 2½ miles are planned for 2015. In addition, approximately 1¼ miles of fitness trails and sidewalks have been constructed, with more to come as part of Gentry's portion of the Two County Walk/Bike Master Plan.
"With the recent hiring of a full-time parks and recreation employee, I look forward to the improved maintenance of our facilities while continuing to focus on additional amenities, such as a new restroom facility in the city park and health and fitness trails that will provide connectivity between our neighborhoods, schools, parks and, potentially, neighboring communities and cities.
"Like many of you, I am proud to call Gentry home. I look forward to working with each of you as we continue to strengthen our relationships with our schools, businesses, residents and neighbors.
"May God continue to bless us all and grant us a prosperous and successful 2015."
General News on 03/11/2015