New PD signage approved by council

GENTRY -- The city council in Gentry, at its regular meeting on April 4, approved adding signage to the front of the new police station in painted cast-aluminum letters at a cost of approximately $2,500. The new sign to be located above the front doors and facing Third Street will identify the building in large letters as "Gentry Police Department."

More study is being done on a design and costs for a monument sign in the front of the building, to include the word "police" and the Gentry Police Department insignia. The council is hoping to take up the monument sign question at its May meeting. Rough estimates of cost ranged between $4,500 and $6,000 depending upon whether the existing sign is used or whether it is taken down and a ground monument built.

An option for signage on the side of the building was not approved, with council members suggesting it could be taken up again later if there is a need for any further signage following installation of the letters above the front door and the monument sign.

Also discussed, with no action taken, was possible lighting for the lettering on the building front.

Kevin Johnston, Gentry mayor, told council members that the new park restroom facility was nearing completion, with the floor stained, fixtures being set and other work being completed.

A committee was formed to discuss needs of the Benton County Court - West and possible renovations needed on the old police station to accommodate the court's needs. Council members Jim Furgason, Janice Arnold, Jimmy Thorburn, city attorney Jay Williams and Mayor Johnston will serve on the committee.

Williams told the council that immediate court needs included restroom access, office space for prosecutors to meet with defense attorneys and for attorneys to meet with their clients, a room to preview videos to be entered as evidence and a room for alcohol screening.

Briefly discussed was the need to post park rules at the Flint Creek Nature Area and how that might be affected with work to be done there through grant moneys received by the city. The matter is expected to be further discussed in an upcoming parks committee meeting.