WM imposes penalties for employees charged with crimes
Other key measures approved during latest council meeting
By DON WILBURN
donaldfwilburn@gmail.com
The West Memphis City Council met last week to discuss several major resolutions, including the sale of city land, public safety staffing increase and an amendment to the employee handbook regarding arrests and convictions. The meeting also featured special recognitions for local leaders who stepped up during recent inclement weather.
One of the key issues addressed was the approval of a resolution to sell 5.45 acres of city-owned land on Waverly Road to Groot, LLC, for $140,459.81. After a unanimous vote, the resolution was officially adopted.
In other council news:
■ ■ The council approved a $60,000 strategy and program implementation plan for economic development near the new Buck-ee’s location. The initiative will involve working with a marketing and planning company to attract investment and business growth in the area.
■ ■ Another important discussion centered around an amendment to the city’s employee handbook, which will add a section regarding arrests, charges, and convictions. Mayor McClendon explained that recent legal issues involving city employees ncluding cases involving drugs, guns, and illegal dog rings highlighted the need for a clear policy. Under the new ordinance, city employees charged with serious felonies may face suspension without pay, rather than continuing to receive a salary while their legal cases play out. The mayor emphasized that this policy is not meant to punish minor infractions like traffic tickets but is focused on cases involving serious criminal activity.
■ ■ Emergency Management Director Dewayne Rose introduced Deranecque Sims as the new Director of the Crittenden County Multi-Jurisdictional Communications Center. Sims, a West Memphis native, brings over 25 years of public safety experience and emphasized her commitment to transparency and communication with city leaders.
The meeting concluded with Mayor McClendon presenting special awards to city department heads, county emergency services, and community organizations that went above and beyond during the recent winter weather. Those honored included officials from the Fire Department, Police Department, West Memphis Utilities, and local outreach groups.
