City Council meeting highlights key initiatives

City renews contract to provide Marion with potable water during emergencies

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The West Memphis City Council convened for its regular meeting last month, covering a packed agenda that included several notable project bids, committee reports, and updates on key city infrastructure.

Early in the session, the Council approved bids related to three projects: the Eugene Woods Civic Center, West Memphis Utilities, and the Carolyn & Ness Sechrest Animal Shelter. The bids will be reviewed by administration for further action.

A resolution was also passed to authorize a purchase agreement between the city and various property owners, despite some council members’ concerns over ongoing occupancy in certain properties. The resolution passed with seven votes in favor, one opposed, and two absent.

Among the new business, the Council approved an ordinance to renewing a contract that establishes a secondary water source agreement with the city of Marion to provide potable water up to one million gallons per day. The city highlighted its efforts to control rates, ensuring that Marion cannot charge their residents more than what they pay West Memphis for the use of its water essentially prohibiting the city of Marion from profiting of of West Memphis’ water. McClendon mentioned that the city of Marion has only had to make use of the agreement one time in the past 20 years.

Committee Reports

■ ■ Police Commission: Councilor David Murray reported updates from the October 7 Police Commission meeting, noting an amendment to the department’s pursuit policy that will no longer permit pursuits for misdemeanor charges. Police collaboration for recent community events and plans for improved radio and dispatch systems were also highlighted.

■ ■ Public Works: Councilor Helen Harris noted ongoing efforts to address dumpster service issues and challenges with missed trash pickups, attributing some lapses to new driver training.

■ ■ Airport: Updates from the airport committee revealed the North Apron Rehabilitation project is nearing completion, with further phases deferred until spring. The jet fuel project is now complete, and closing documentation is being prepared.

■ ■ Main Street: Director Raymond Whiteside provided a report on Broadway safety, presenting ARDOT with a proposal for reduced speeds and crosswalk installations to enhance pedestrian safety. Whiteside also updated the council on historic building renovations and business grants allocated to local businesses.