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2025CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:12 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on January 2, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Mayor Elmore swore in the following council members for their new terms: Tanner Ruple-Ward 1 Position 2, Dr. Trenika McCoy-Ward 2 Position 2, Michael LaBron-Ward 3 Position 2, Mary Twitty-Ward 4 Position 2, and Katrina Mimms-Ward 5 Position 2. Council Member Ray then delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Others present for the meeting were: Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Police Chief Brett Hibbs, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Communications Director Emily Sundermeier, Finance Director Laura Collie, Director of Engineering and Public Works Adam Whitlow, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, Economic Development Director Robert Birch, IT Director Brian Harvey, Kathy Perez, Jim Moore, Morgan Allen, Wyatt Elmore, Terry Sansing, and James Bolden. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of December 5, 2024 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member McCleary moved, seconded by Council Member Ray that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting o£ November 21, 2024 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/NOVEMBER Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 102,300.00 Savings total for the month: $ 987,700.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/NOVEMBER TOEiC 2024 2023 2024 2023 Total Complaint Calls 2941 2137 Homicide Reported 1 0 Theft Reported 57 81 Homicide Cleared 1 0 Theft Cleared 35 38 Rape/Sex Assault Reported 7 3 Vehicle Theft Reported 13 15 Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 2 1 Vehicle Theft Cleared 6 3 Robbery Reported 1 5 Felony Cases Reported 114 157 Robbery Cleared 0 2 Felony Cases Closed 101 178 Felony Assaults Reported 9 15 Misd Cases Reported 232 230 Felony Assaults Cleared 5 15 Misd Cases Closed 149 242 Burglary Reported 9 13 Burglary Cleared 3 4 1 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:12 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/NOVEMBER Assigned Calls 58 Demolition by City 0 Self-Initiated Calls 126 Demolition by Owner 0 Follow Up Inspections 335 Parking Violations 2 Complied after Notice 237 Garbage Cans Tagged 0 Three Day Notice 24 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 173 Structures Inspected 519 Citation Letters Mailed 37 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0 Citations Issued 6 Red Tags Issued 0 Vehicles Tagged 22 Search Warrants 0 Vehicles Towed 4 Grass Mowed 0 Unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed 81 Structures Condemned 8 Shopping Carts 0 Structures Rehabbed 0 WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: a. ORDINANCE 1772 (#01-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT NORTH ELM & EAST CENTER STREETS); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ordinance 17 7 2 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance 1772. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ray to APPROVE Ordinance 17 7 2 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1772 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Mr.\.oy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE Ordinance 17 7 2 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1772 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. 2 r CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:12 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1772 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Twitty moved, EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, AYE. MOTION CARRIED. seconded by Council Member McCleary that the and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted ORDINANCE 1772 (#01-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 2~ DAY OF JANUARY, 2025. b. FINAL PLAT: Cypress Heights Addition Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to accept the final plat of Cypress Heights Addition. MOTION CARRIED. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: APPOINTMENTS: PLANNING COMMISSION Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the appointments of Terry Sansing, Nick Priest, and Vivian Brittenum for terms to expire 01/01/2028. Council Member McCoy inquired about the criteria for these approvals and selections. Mayor Elmore responded there are none for any commissions within the City of Jacksonville. He explained, as far as qualifications go, they try to find people who have some experience in that particular area, but it is not required. He noted any citizen can serve on any board at any point in time. He told how the City has an online form that citizens who are interested can fill out. Council Member McCoy shared her desire to ask questions to potential appointees in order to make an informed decision. Mayor Elmore replied that Terry Sansing is the only one present. City Clerk Davitt noted Vivian Brittenum has previously served on the Commission. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to approve the appointment of Billy Hall and the reappointment of Jeff Twitty for terms to expire 01/01/2028. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Twitty ABSTAINING. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 2 I 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:12 P.M. ADDITION TO AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to SUSPEND THE RULES and add an additional appointment to the agenda. MOTION CARRIED. PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Moss to approve the appointment of James Bolden. MOTION CARRIED. RESUME AGENDA: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Jacksonville Senior Wellness & Activity Center Fundraiser Council Member Twitty announced that the Senior Center beans and cornbread fundraiser was rescheduled to Tuesday, January 14th from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:12 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. ~·~ 0 JEFF ELMORE 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on February 6, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaB ron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member Mimms was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Police Chief Brett Hibbs, HR Director Charlette Nelson, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, Finance Director Laura Collie, Communications Director Emily Sundermeier, Director of Engineering and Public Works Adam Whitlow, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, Economic Development Director Robert Birch, IT Director Brian Harvey, Fred Belote, and Larry Wilson. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of January 2, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ray that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of December 5, 2024 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/DECEMBER PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 23 Building Inspections Electrical Plumbing HVACR ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JANUARY PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 19 Building Inspections Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/DECEMBER Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 10,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 10,000.00 1 51 57 79 34 48 69 74 38 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/DECEMBER Topic 2024 2023 2024 Total Complaint Calls 3412 2043 Homicide Reported 0 0 Theft Reported 49 Homicide Cleared 0 0 Theft Cleared 47 Rape/Sex Assault Reported 0 2 Vehicle Theft Reported 12 Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 3 5 Vehicle Theft Cleared 7 Robbery Reported 1 3 Felony Cases Reported 109 Robbery Cleared 1 1 Felony Cases Closed 115 Felony Assaults Reported 7 13 Misd Cases Reported 217 Felony Assaults Cleared 8 9 Misd Cases Closed 191 Burglary Reported 8 10 Burglary Cleared 9 3 CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/DECEMBER 2023 66 27 17 2 131 131 220 226 Assigned Calls 39 Demolition by City 1 Self-Initiated Calls 97 Demolition by Owner 1 Follow Up Inspections 210 Parking Violations 1 Complied after Notice 96 Garbage Cans Tagged 2 Three Day Notice 22 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 110 Structures Inspected 201 Citation Letters Mailed 12 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0 Citations Issued 0 Red Tags Issued 0 Vehicles Tagged 59 Search Warrants 0 Vehicles Towed 2 Grass Mowed 0 Unsafe Structures Tagged 1 Signs Removed 10 Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts 0 Structures Rehabbed 0 ANI~ SERVICES REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/DECEMBER ADOPTION FEES $ SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS Paid by the City of Jacksonville Best Friends Animal Rescue Grant Paid for by Best Friends FINES CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL ANI~ SERVICES ANNUAL REPORT/2024 $ ADOPTION FEES $ SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS Paid by the City of Jacksonville Paid for by Best Friends Rescue FINES CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL $ 2 2,970.00 2,970.00 2,970.00 1,339.21 3,279.51 4,618.72 32,450.00 32,450.00 22,825.00 9,625.00 18,395.54 25,662.71 76,508.25 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. WATER DEPARTMENT: 2024 Annual Report by Water Department Water Department Superintendent Jake Short stated Council Member Kinman is now serving as Chairman of the Water Commission, with Larry Wilson being Vice Chairman. He then read the following statement: "On behalf of the Jacksonville Water Commission, I am pleased to provide you with our 2024 Annual report. This year the Water Works had zero water quality violations and has successfully managed to stay within our budget while continuing to deliver the high quality water and services the residents of Jacksonville not only deserve, but have also come to expect. The projects completed in 2024 include the installation of 7,800 linear feet of pipe, 10 additional fire hydrants, and 40 new valves. Our system boasts 11,628 water meters, welcoming 106 new water services in 2024. Customer service remains a primary focus for Water Works staff. We maintain our commitment to accepting online payments via our secure website. In 2024, we processed 37,735 online transactions amounting to a little over $3.9 million. Additionally, the number of workorders processed through the utility totaled over a little over 24,000, which was an 11% increase over the previous year. Water usage increased slightly in 2024. The total water purchased was 1.35 billion gallons, which was a 1.3% increase compared to 2023. On January 17, 2024 we reached our peak demand for the year, which was 7.7 million gallons. The previous year's peak water flow of 5.4 million gallons occurred on September lOth. We currently manage nearly 1.2 million linear feet of distribution line, 1,000 fire hydrants, 5.25 million gallons of storage, and provides an average of 3. 7 million gallons per day to the residents of Jacksonville, LRAFB, and three other wholesale customers. 2024 was our sixth full year managing LRAFB distribution system. Under this 50-year contract, we serve as the systems privatized owner that requires us to operate, maintain, repair, upgrade, and make significant improvements to that system. The LRAFB water distribution system includes approximately 290,000 linear feet of pipe, 507 hydrants, 3 pump stations, and 1.35 million gallons of storage. It is important to note that these two systems operate independently of one another. I am pleased to report that the LRAFB system also reported zero water quality violations in 2024. The LRAFB Maintenance Team scheduled maintenance of 509 valves and 284 fire hydrants in the distribution system, conducted training for LRAFB personnel as needed, and repaired 3 emergency leaks as part of routine daily activities. They also oversaw the installation of an emergency power generator and switch gear at the secondary connection point from our system. These tasks were completed with a staff of 31 employees, 11 of which are currently licensed by the Arkansas Department of Health to operate the water system, and 4 currently going through classes hoping to test later this year." When Council Member McCleary inquired, Superintendent Short replied that the classes are 24 hours of schooling that could be done in a year. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: 2024 Annual Report by Wastewater Utility Wastewater Utility Manager Thea Hughes read the following statement: "Jacksonville 1 s system consists of about 183 miles of gravity sewer line ranging in size from 6 inch to 42 inch, about 13 miles of force main, and over 3800 manholes. We also have 14 remote pumping stations. We completed our 29th consecutive year at the treatment plant with zero permit violations, while operating the plant under construction the last three years. Phase I of our treatment plant upgrades was completed in 2024, and this year we have started on Phase II. We were able to get a low interest loan from the Arkansas Natural Resources Division which will cover a large portion of the cost. Phase I consisted of all new filters, SCADA throughout the plant, new clarifiers, new disc rotors and DO probes, and new electrical building and equipment at a cost of about $18 million. Phase II of the improvements consists of some items we were not able to do in Phase I because of funding. It includes new solids handling equipment, an alkalinity feed system to help with nitrification, a new parasitic acid disinfection system to assist and act as back to the UV system. We completed the project on the I-57 highway widening by moving several sewer lines. The wastewater utility is broken down into four departments. The Technical Services handles investigation, cleaning and televising the lines, and oversight of all new construction. They completed 8.1 miles of televising and cleaned 57 miles of main line. Their report is on pages 3-4. The Collection Systems department is responsible for repair and replacement of sewer lines and manholes, and construction of new lines. They inspected and/or repaired 153 manholes and performed 20 street cuts. They also get to do some fun things like build a Christmas Parade float and participate in the Parade. The Operations department is responsible for operating the treatment plant, running process control tests in the laboratory to ensure we are within permit regulations, assisting our industries with their wastewater pre- treatment, and maintaining and repairing all plant equipment. The plant treated over 1.7 ~illion gallons of water in 2024, performed 252 inspections of grease traps throughout the City, and performed over 5, 206 analytical tests in the laboratory. Their report is found on pages 5-7. The Administration department handles financial management, personnel, purchasing, and clerical support. We continue our effort to educate our citizens not to flush anything down the toilet, other than toilet paper, and never pour grease in drains. One administrative employee received the Dick Morris Employee Excellence Award in 2024. Congratulations to Vickie Herd. Their report is found on pages 8-9. Our employees have many licenses and certifications including 9 Collection System certifications, 19 Wastewater Operator 1 s licenses, 4 Solid Waste licenses, 7 Plumbing Inspector licenses, and 13 COL licenses." FIRE DEPARTMENT : POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: 4 PARKS & RECREATION: CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. PLANNING COMMISSION: a. ORDINANCE 1773 (#02-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 909 SHALL COURT); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place Ordinance 1773 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1773. Council Member Dietz related that the Planning Commission granted this change to allow multi-family in a single-family residence. He noted it would need to be brought up to code. City Engineer Adam Whitlow explained that R-0 is single-family residential and R-2 is a two-family duplex. He told how it could not be appraised as multi-family since it was zoned R-0, so he related to the owner if they want to advertise it as an income multi-family, they would have to request a rezone. He confirmed that his Staff is not in favor, since this is not an area transitioning from single-family to multi-family. He advised caution on the precedence it would set. He mentioned it is legal as it sits, but it has to be occupied by the same family unit. He confirmed if approved, it would have to be brought up to duplex standards, which includes fire code issues, separate meters and sanitation services, etc. He related that this was approved through the Planning Commission 4 to 3 and there was one neighbor in opposition. He mentioned being careful in spot zoning in an area that is not transitioning to multi-family. When Council Member Ruple brought up the Bill of Assurance, he replied that it expiring is irrelevant to the City, as far as the land use; they still acknowledge it as a single-family area. Council Member McCleary shared his concern of setting a precedent. When Council Member McCoy mentioned a concern for neighbors and property values, Engineer Whitlow confirmed it was advertised and posted properly and they had one who opposed it, but he himself could not speak on the potential property value effect. Representative Craig Friedman with Friedman Law Firm stated nothing about this property is going to change, other than what would be required to make it R-2, which is putting a water meter outside and a possible fire barrier inside. He stressed that externally, it is going to look exactly like it does since there are no plans to make changes and no one would know the difference unless they are watching where people are walking in. He related that the way it is designed, it looks like a single-family home. He explained that a large part of the Country is going toward form-based zoning that is based on the appearance of the property, not necessarily the use. He said for example, a boutique could be next to a house and it would not matter because it would 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. look the same aesthetically. He noted that no one would know the difference here unless they were looking at a zoning map, because this is the way the property has been used for three years and how it will continue to be used. He reiterated there is not going to be any construction done on this property, other than what the City may require to bring it up to zoning. Council Member Kinman brought up concerns of what could happen in the future in other subdivisions if this were to change to R-2. Mr. Friedman shared current pictures of the property, noting there is a door on the side to enter the smaller portion, which he believes was an enclosed carport years ago. He pointed out that the property has been remodeled and is in good condition. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 1773 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1773 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ray, and LaBron voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voting NAY. b. ORDINANCE 1774 (#03-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 6350 TP WHITE DRIVE); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE ~p OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1774 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the headinq of Ordinance 1774. Council Member Dietz stated there used to be a tire shop here, but they sold the land. He explained the new company sells pipes and will store it in the back. He confirmed they thought it would be a good fit for that area. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 17 7 4 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1774 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 17 7 4 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1774 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1774 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. 6 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P .M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1774 (#03-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2025. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: a. STATE OF THE CITY by Mayor Elmore Mayor Elmore read the following statement: "This past year was the halfway point of my first term as Mayor of Jacksonville. Each and every day, I have the honor and privilege of serving the City of Jacksonville and the almost 30,000 people that are proud to live, work and play here. To the over three hundred City employees, I thank you for your daily service to the City and the people of Jacksonville. To our ten City Councilmembers, thank you for your dedicated service, support and duty to the people and City of Jacksonville. With continuing collaborative efforts between my office and our Councilmembers, the things we can accomplish for this City are limitless. The people and City government of Jacksonville can, must and should, work together towards achieving the flourishing future of Jacksonville that we all know, and can feel, is on the horizon. 2024 was a year of rebirth and new growth in Jacksonville. The Jacksonville North Pulaski School District met its goal of having all-new buildings by the 2024-25 school year, giving thousands of scholars the opportunity to receive world-class education, setting scholars up for college and careers alike. The former Jacksonville Elementary School was demolished around the holidays, and the debris and rubble has since been removed from the site. The future of the land remains unknown, yet my office and the City are committed to working towards a solution. Residential and commercial construction around Jacksonville continues to grow. The City's engineering department issued 111 building permits for residential construction, and 15 permits for commercial construction. Renovations of the Jacksonville Animal Shelter were also completed. We are in the midst of true revitalization in our community, and I believe that 2024 was a step forward in an amazing chapter of Jacksonville's story. Economic development and growth in Jacksonville this past year was tremendous on a number of fronts. In February 2024, Robert Birch was hired as the City's first economic development director, and he continues to work diligently to showcase our City to businesses and real estate developers. Sig Sauer opened the Jacksonville Arkansas Ammunition Center in October and announced additional plans to further expand their presence and manufacturing campus in Jacksonville. With this development and expansion, 675 new jobs are expected to be created over the next three years. 81 businesses applied for new licenses, an increase from 73 in 2023. 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. A call for residents and visitors alike to reacquaint themselves with Jacksonville is underway with the launch of the Rediscover Jacksonville campaign. A joint partnership with the Communications Department and Office of Economic Development, Rediscover Jacksonville aims to showcase aspects of our community that are unique to Jacksonville. More so, Rediscover Jacksonville is about community pride, displaying to central Arkansas, the Southeast region and the world what makes Jacksonville special. The Rediscover Jacksonville Business Beautification Grant was created, with applications opening at the beginning of 2025. This matching grant, of up to $5,000, will aid local businesses in improving their exterior aesthetics. With this grant program, we hope that businesses, both large and small, will continue to take pride in being located in Jacksonville, and will continue to invest in our community. 2024 was also a season of awards. The Jacksonville Parks and Recreation department was awarded with two awards at the United States Specialty Sports Association's National Convention: Dupree Park was recognized as the National Complex of the Year and the Autism Awareness Softball Tournament for Pathfinder was recognized as the Southwest Event of the Year. The Parks and Rec team does a phenomenal job with all of their events and the upkeep of the City's numerous parks and athletic complexes. We are grateful for all of their hard work; it does not go unappreciated, nor does it go unnoticed. The City of Jacksonville was also recognized as a Trendsetter City by Arkansas Business for the Marshall Smith Inclusive Playground at Dupree Park. For the twenty-sixth consecutive year, the City's Finance Department was awarded a "Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting" by the Government Finance Officers Association of the U.S. and Canada. 2024 also commemorated the one-year anniversary of the March 31, 2023 tornado. Repairs in the affected areas have almost been completed. New Commandment Church of God in Christ, which was destroyed during the tornado, celebrated its grand re-opening in a brand-new facility across the street from its former site. The resiliency of the people of Jacksonville continues to shine bright. Jacksonville continues to not only recover, yet thrive, each and every day. The work towards making Jacksonville a community that everyone is proud to call home continues. 2025 looks to be another promising year for our City on a number of fronts. Five Below, a nationally recognized chain of specialty discount stores, will open on T. P. White Drive, in the vacant unit between Citi Trends and Harbor Freight. The expansion project of Highway 67/167, also known as Interstate 57, is nine months ahead of schedule and is over halfway complete. The estimated date of completion, which is subject to change due to circumstances, is projected for December 2026. 2025 will also be a year of celebration in the City, as the Jacksonville Community Center will be celebrating its 30th anniversary. The Center has won numerous local, state, regional and national awards since its opening, and it continues to serve thousands of people annually through its facilities. 8 r CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. For the Jacksonville Fire and Police Departments, as well as the City's Dispatch center, 2024 brought about progress and development. Fire Station 2 on Graham Road will be completed this year, which will provide our City's first responders with the space and amenities needed to best serve Jacksonville. In compliance with the Public Safety Act of 2019, the Jacksonville 911 Communications Center consolidated with the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office. The consolidation of the departments has resulted in citizens of Jacksonville and unincorporated areas of Pulaski County being served by our 911 Emergency Communications service. In 2024, the Jacksonville Police Department increased their officer total by 54.2%, bringing their end- of-year officer count to 54. The Jacksonville Police Department is optimistic about the growth of the department in 2025. Public safety is of key importance to any City. With the City's emergency services seeing modern improvements and continued growth, Jacksonville can, and will, continue to remain a safe community for all. In times of celebration and in times of hardship, the people of Jacksonville have always been supportive of one another. Friends, neighbors, community members and strangers have uplifted each other in times of need, and they have also rejoiced together in good times. Jacksonville's future is extremely bright, and the best is yet to come. It is the responsibility of all of us to do our part to ensure that Jacksonville is the best place we all know it can be. This year, I invite you to soar with us to new and unprecedented heights in Jacksonville's history. Join me in anticipation for what 2025 will bring. Together, we can create a Jacksonville that we can all be proud of." b. Report rrom Director of Economic Devel.opment regarding 2025 Shot Show & ICSC Retail Event Director of Economic Development Robert Birch stated he, Mayor Elmore, and Police Chief Brett Hibbs attended an exclusive vendor event thanks to the Little Rock Regional Chamber and Sig Sauer. He explained the reason they attended was to support one of the City's largest employers, Sig Sauer, at the 2025 Shot Show. He mentioned it being the largest event he has attended and there were several other cities from Arkansas there. He brought up wanting to show our strength to attract more businesses, along with helping Sig Sauer grow. He shared Sig Sauer's plan to have everything they need to produce their products done here, because of the environment Jacksonville has provided for them. He told how they had a private dinner with Sig Sauer, the State, and Hugh McDonald, who is the head of the Commerce Department for Arkansas. He also attended the ICSC Red River retail convention in Dallas, recalling they went to the large one in Las Vegas last year, but did not see a benefit in it. He mentioned attending this smaller one as a representative of the Metro Little Rock Alliance and that Kathy Perez and Lauren Martin from the Jacksonville Chamber also came. He listed representatives from Maumelle, Cabot, Sherwood, Pulaski County, North Little Rock, and Searcy who attended as well to show their strength as an area. He related that Titan Student Leadership starts next week at the Chamber to grow the next generation of leaders. He also believes there will be a new partner at the High School, noting we are the only one in Central Arkansas that has all academies sponsored. He stated Bargain Hunt and Dirt Cheap are both closing, but it has 9 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:10 P.M. nothing to do with the City because they are both national bankruptcies. He is excited about the space since the location is the most requested right now. He confirmed Five Below is opening, which came from last year's ICSC meeting. He related that the energy and excitement around the City is as high now as it was in the late 1980s. When Council Member McCoy inquired about the Titan Student Leadership, he responded that they will start with 10 scholars and eventually go to 25. APPOINTMENTS: JACKSONVILLE HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to approve the reappointments of Addie Gibson to expire 03-17-2027, Jon Johnson to expire 03-17-2028, and Logan Perry to expire 03-17-2029. MOTION CARRIED. A & P COMMISSION Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to approve the appointment of Jason Fox to the unexpired term of Kayla Hawkins set to expire 03/31/2027. MOTION CARRIED. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINEGS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council Member McCoy requested that the monthly financial report be a part of the consent agenda since it is required to be presented to Council in open session. Mayor Elmore concurred, saying it will be part of the agenda packets moving forward. Council Member McCoy also mentioned that it is required for Council to annually, in January, assemble and organize the governing body. She pointed out a working document of rules and procedures placed at each council member's seat, noting they can adopt or make revisions at the next meeting. Council Member Twitty related that Council Member Mimms' father passed away and asked to keep her and her family in their thoughts. Council Member Ruple stated Pastor Brennan Ayers of First Assembly of God passed away recently due to terminal cancer. He explained that congregation also provides the mon~hly food for the pantry at Jacksonville Middle School and will continue to be instrumental to their food drives. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:10p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 10 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on February 20, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Council Member McCleary arrived at approximately 6:09 p.m. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, HR Dir ector Charlette Nelson, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Finance Director Laura Collie, Communications Director Emily Sundermeier, IT Director Brian Harvey, and Jim Moore. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of February 6, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. City Clerk Davitt noted a correction on page 1 of the agenda for the minutes of February 6, 2025. She pointed out the date in the first paragraph should read "February 6, 2025," not "January 2, 2025." APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meetinq of January 2, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to approve the consent aqenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JANUARY Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 409,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 516,000.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JANUARY TOEiC 2025 2024 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 3279 1974 Homicide Reported 0 0 Theft Reported 44 57 Homicide Cleared 0 0 Theft Cleared 18 14 Rape/Sex Assault Reported 5 2 Vehicle Theft Reported 8 19 Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 0 1 Vehicle Theft Cleared 1 1 Robbery Reported 1 3 Felony Cases Reported 108 137 Robbery Cleared 0 2 Felony Cases Closed 104 163 Felony Assaults Reported 13 13 Misd Cases Reported 222 216 Felony Assaults Cleared 9 7 Misd Cases Closed 161 184 Burglary Reported 9 13 Burglary Cleared 2 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JANUARY Assigned Calls 26 Demolition by City Self-Initiated Calls 139 Demolition by Owner Follow Up Inspections 203 Parking Violations Complied after Notice 102 Garbage Cans Tagged Three Day Notice 23 Basketball Goals Seven Day Letter 96 Structures Inspected Citation Letters Mailed 18 Apartment Complexes Inspected Citations Issued 6 Red Tags Issued Vehicles Tagged 35 Search Warrants Vehicles Towed 6 Grass Mowed Unsafe Structures Tagged Structures Condemned Structures Rehabbed FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: 0 Signs Removed 0 Shopping Carts 0 REPORT I JANUARY Total Revenues $ 227, 728 $ $ 11,047 $ 5,874 $ 191,197 STREET DEPARTMENT: ORDINANCE 1777 (#06-2025) Total Ex12enditures $ 2,283,310 $ 115,837 $ 160, 720 $ 36,499 $ 218,829 3 0 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 AN ORDINANCE WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF A HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRAILER FOR THE JACKSONVILLE STREET DEPARTMENT; FOR APPROPRIATE IMPLEMENTATION AND ACCESS FOR THE JACKSONVILLE STREET DEPARTMENT AND CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REPRESENTATIVES; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, PURPOSES. FOR OTHER Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1777 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedm~n read the headinq of Ordinance 1777. A brief discussion ensued regarding the specific nature of the emergency which would effectuate the emergency clause. Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow stated the trailer would carry heavy equipment, noting the current one has been repaired several times and is used for DOT testing, but the last group did not pass because it does not pass DOT standards. He confirmed this is the only thing they have to move their heavy excavators and bulldozer and would like to replace it quickly. He confirmed the City has not used this company before, but it has a comparable warranty to others. He surmised it would take six weeks before it is ready. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20 I 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 17 7 7 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1777 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1777 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1777 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1777 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1777 (#06-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF FEBRUARY 1 2025. SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: ORDINANCE 1776 (#05-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 700 GREGORY STREET) ; AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE :t-m.P OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1776 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1776. Council Member Dietz stated Jacksonville North Pulaski School District is selling the vacant lot where Warren Dupree Elementary used to be. He related a future need for more vacant commercial land. Discussion commercial property. ensued regarding if C-1 would be a use, rather than C-2, since there are 3 better, less intensive homes adjacent to 'this CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. Director Whitlow read the permitted uses in a C-2 as: any use permitted in C- 1, beauty and barbershops, bowling alleys, churches and accessory buildings, convenience goods and services, day care facility, financial institutions, firing/shooting range(s), indoor theaters, parking lots, public buildings, public utilities offices and rights-of-way, private clubs and lodges, private or public facilities for firing/ shooting range ( s), professional and general offices, restaurant(s) with alcohol, beer, and/or wine sales, retail consumer goods stores. He then read the permitted uses in a C-1 as: churches and accessory buildings, schools (public, private and nursery), community facilities, public buildings, public utilities offices and rights-of-way, professional and general offices, hospitals and clinics, funeral homes, financial institutions, beauty and barber shops, laundry pick-up stations, coin-operated laundries, pharmacies, and day care facility. He mentioned that his Staff has received calls from out-of-state from people looking for property in the area. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 17 7 6 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1776 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy and Moss voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to APPROVE Ordinance 1776 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1776 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy and Moss voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1776 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy and Moss voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy and Moss voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1776 (#05-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20T8 DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2025. COMMITTEE(S): GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1779 (#08-2025) AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AND INTEGRATING THE CITY CODE WITH UPDATED RULES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE JACKSONVILLE CITY COUNCIL AND MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1779 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1779. Council Member McCoy brought up that Council is required to review their rules and procedures at the beginning of each year. She explained there was one ordinance regarding parliamentary procedures, but it did not contain information on how they conduct meetings and such. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member Ray to APPROVE Ordinance 1779 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1779 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1779 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1779 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaB ron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1779 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1779 (#08-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2025. b. ORDINANCE 1775 (#04-2025) AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A FRANCHISE AGREEMENT FOR FIBER OPTIC, DATA MJ\NAGEMENT, DIGITAL INFOR!m.TION SERVICES, AND ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES ~THIN THE CITY WITH UNITI FIBER LLC; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1775 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1775. Uni ti Fiber Field Operations Manager Chris Taylor stated their corporate office is in Little Rock. He explained they are merging with Windstream, who already has fiber in the area. He confirmed there are no plans for a ring around the City at this time and they have one customer here, but will seek more. He mentioned currently not offering fiber to residential, but do sell to businesses in the area. He confirmed they will not be running fiber in backyards, etc., since most go down the interstate and main roads only. He related that they do not have people to do repairs, but will contract it out. 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. Council Member Twitty and Council Member Ruple shared concerns for citizens since previous companies caused damage to multiple properties. Director Whitlow confirmed this franchise agreement does not guarantee that the right-of-way is a suitable width or has the capacity to distribute network. He noted it only allows them, if there is capacity, on a first first serve basis. He explained the franchise agreement gives the permitting authority, while establishing a 4.25% fee the City receives, equates to approximately $1 million a year with all franchises combined. their come, City which Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1775 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1775 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ray, LaBron, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Moss, and Twitty voting NAY and Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING. City Clerk Davitt noted seven ayes are required to suspend the rules, therefore, Ordinance 1775 will be on the next meeting agenda. c. ORDINANCE 1778 (#07-2025) AN ORDINANCE CREATING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE § 3. 080. 044, SO AS TO MODIFY COMPETITIVE BIDDING AND PURCHASING PROCEDURES FOR THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1778 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the headinq of Ordinance 1778. Mayor Elmore related that the State changes the competitive bidding threshold every five years. He explained this raise if due to inflation and this ordinance states the City will follow the State Statute as it changes. Council Member McCoy stated as a first class city, we do not have to change it from what it currently is at $35, 000. 00; this is not mandated, but is optional. Mayor Elmore concurred. When Council Member Ruple inquired how fast the aforementioned equipment trailer would have been obtained if this change was in place, Director Whitlow replied that they could have placed the order when the quote was received, had they met the purchasing procedures. He mentioned also needing to order a half ton truck over $35, 000.00, but if they are under the new $42,921.00 threshold, their options expand where they are still good stewards of the public's money. Discussion ensued regarding if the emergency clause was necessary where Mayor Elmore determined it could go without the emergency clause and be enacted in thirty days. 6 r CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 1778 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1778 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1778 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1778 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1778 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1778 (#07-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2025. d. RESOLUTION 853 (#01-2025) A RESOLUTION URGING SUPPORT OF THE PROPOSED ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTIES BORDERING THE SOUTHERN BOUNDARIES OF THE CITY LIMITS OF JACKSONVILLE (COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE WOOTEN ROAD ANNEXATION); AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to read Resolution 853 (#01-2025). MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Resolution 853 (#01-2025) . Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to adopt Resolution 853 (#01-2025) in its entirety. MOTION CARRIED. e. Karen Kinney to express concerns regarding First Presbyterian Church Warming Center Karen Finney recalled First Presbyterian Church being the site of the warming center for six years, but requests the City assist in locating a new space for it starting Fall 2025. She explained this is a desperately needed service and can mean the difference between life and death for the unsheltered. She listed reasons why they can no longer remain a warming center is mainly their aging congregation, which have health factors limiting their physical stamina required to run it, and the facility having only one restroom, which is inadequate for the number of people served. She shared that they have created an organizational manual they will make available and will donate all resources collected. She noted the criteria for opening is a temperature below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, or freezing precipitation. She urged planning to start soon so a new location can be established this Fall. She mentioned fear other congregations may have regarding opening a warming center, but believes the manual would help. She surmised they had around 40 volunteers with approximately 7 being a part of their own church congregation. 7 APPOINTMENTS: CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:18 P.M. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: When Council Member Dietz inquired about planning code updates, Director Whitlow responded that James Walden should be meeting with him in a month to go over it. He also brought up his desire to update the Planning Area Boundary Map for the City. He would like to have a joint working session with the Planning Commission and City Council. NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS : ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:18p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 8 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING !mRCH 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on March 6, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member Ruple was absent. Others present for the meeting were: HR Director Charlette Nelson, Finance Director Laura Collie, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Director of Engineering and Public Works Adam Whitlow, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, IT Director Brian Harvey, Water Department Superintendent Jake Short, and Kathy Perez. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of February 20, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of February 6, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FEBRUARY PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License ~TER DEPARTMENT: ~STE~TER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : 16 GENERAL: ORDINANCE 1775 (#04-2025) Building Inspections Electrical Plumbing HVACR 38 65 80 34 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A FRANCHISE AGREEMENT FOR FIBER OPTIC, DATA MANAGEMENT, DIGITAL INFO~TION SERVICES, AND ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES WITHIN THE CITY WITH UNITI FIBER LLC; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. 1 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1775 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1775. Mayor Elmore stated this ordinance is from the last meeting, noting there was some confusion, but Director Whitlow provided information to help clarify. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1775 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1775 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1775 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1775 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1775 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING. ORDINANCE 1775 (#04-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF MARCH, 2025. APPOINTMENTS: WATER COMMISSION Council Member LaBron moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to approve the appointment of Dr. James E. Bolden III to the unexpired term of James Peacock set to expire 04-20-2029. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCleary, LaBron, and Moss voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member McCoy, Ray, Twitty, and Mimms voting NAY, Council Member Kinman ABSTAINING, and Mayor Elmore choosing not to vote. Council. Member Ray moved, seconded by Council. Member Dietz to approve the reappointment of Joy Kinman for a term to expire 04-20-2033. MOTION CARRIED. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council Member LaBron thanked Director House and his department for quickly c l eaning graffiti off of park signs. Council Member McCleary recalled the Autism Awareness Tournament occurring the previous weekend. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING !mRCH 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. Director House related there were 90 teams from all over the Country, 50 professional softball players, and 10 bat company owners. He explained there were pros and owners from Seattle, Washington, South Florida, and Canada. He confirmed all of the proceeds benefit Pathfinders. He explained that it started Friday night with wrestling, while softball was played Friday night around the clock and he did not leave until 1:00 a.m. Monday morning. Council Member Twitty thanked Parks and Recreation employee Morgan Allen for being a big part of the Department and assisting with the event. Mayor Elmore reminded Council of an invitation to walk-through the Nixon property on Graham Road tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. He related that First Friday Breakfast at the Chamber of Commerce is also tomorrow at 7:30 a.m. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:14 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on March 20, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT EIGHT (8) ABSENT TWO (2). Council Members McCleary and Moss were absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Assistant Fire Chief Dewan Laws, Finance Director Laura Collie, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, IT Specialist Andrew Browder, Officer Ernesto Ortiz, Chris Erkel, Kathy Perez, Tina Hibbs, and Morgan Allen. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of March 6, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of February 20, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FEBRUARY Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 6,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 120,000.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FEBRUARY TOJ2iC 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 2889 2251 Homicide Reported 0 1 Theft Reported Homicide Cleared 0 1 Theft Cleared Rape/Sex Assault Reported 5 1 Vehicle Theft Reported Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 0 1 Vehicle Theft Cleared Robbery Reported 2 2 Felony Cases Reported Robbery Cleared 0 1 Felony Cases Closed Felony Assaults Reported 6 13 Misd Cases Reported Felony Assaults Cleared 1 6 Misd Cases Closed Burglary Reported 16 15 Burglary Cleared 7 4 CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FEBRUARY Assigned Calls 54 Demolition by City Self-Initiated Calls 141 Demolition by Owner Follow Up Inspections 240 Parking Violations 1 2025 42 15 7 2 101 105 209 153 2024 52 29 13 4 116 110 245 176 0 1 3 Complied after Notice Three Day Notice 103 46 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. Garbage Cans Tagged 4 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter Citation Letters Mailed Citations Issued Vehicles Tagged Vehicles Towed 162 Structures Inspected 435 23 Apartment Complexes Inspected Unsafe Structures Tagged Structures Condemned Structures Rehabbed 6 50 3 1 0 0 Red Tags Issued Search Warrants Grass Mowed Signs Removed Shopping Carts ANIMAL SERVICES REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FEBRUARY ADOPTION FEES $ SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS Paid by the City of Jacksonville Best Friends Animal Rescue Grant Paid for by Best Friends FINES CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL $ FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/FEBRUARY General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: Total $ $ $ $ $ Revenues 471,313 210,466 390,684 17,088 387,987 PLANNING COMMISSION: a. ORDINANCE 1780 (#09-2025) 2,310.00 2,310.00 2,310.00 2,141.58 1,831.99 3,973.57 Total Ex12enditures $ 4,100,329 $ 277,126 $ 355,186 $ 67,433 $ 466,867 0 0 0 0 26 1 AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 1808 NORTH BAILEY); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to place Ordinance 1780 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Clerk Davitt read the heading of Ordinance 1780. Mayor Elmore stated there is no real need for the emergency clause, therefore, it will not be voted on. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 0 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1780 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 1780 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1780 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ray to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1780 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1780 (#09-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF MARCH, 2025. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: a. PUBLIC HEARING Approval of CDBG 2024 Consolidated Annual Performance & Evaluation Report (CAPER) Mayor ELmore opened the public hearing at approx~ately 6:04 p.m. CDBG Director Michelle Spencer stated the Community Development Block Grant is a federally funded program provided to local governments to focus on at least one of the three national objectives, which are benefitting low to moderate income individuals/families, eliminating slum and blight, and addressing a need posing an immediate threat to the community's health and welfare. She explained our funds are allocated to meet the low to moderate income objective and target the Sunnyside area. She listed eligible activities as housing rehab, public facility improvements, economic development, public services, and program administration. She related we are on the 4th cycle of the 5-year consolidated plan and just got allocated for 2024 in January 2025. She noted this has put them a year behind starting into the 5ili year and another allocation will be awarded around May for the same $230,739.00. She listed the following expended in 2024: Rehab Admin- $7,734.76, Public Service-$7,263.86, General Admin-$45,594.00, CDBG Contract under Public Service (water bills and temporary housing)-$12,116.38, and CDBG/CV Public Service (rent/house payment, utilities, and food assistance)- $16,854.94, notin<J C:ORG/CV Total Expended through 2024 was $157,628.45. She detailed how the $643,332.00 Total Resources for PY24 equal the PY24 Allocation of $230, 739.00 plus the Prior Years Reallocation ( 2018-2023) of $412,593.00. She confirmed funds will be used for housing, economic development, creating a suitable living environment, public facility improvements (repairs to Johnson and Excell Parks, the Boys and Girls Club, Senior Center, Jacksonville Towers, and Martin Street Youth Center (MSYC)), public service, and administration. When Council Member Twitty inquired, she listed the repairs as benches and playground equipment at Excell Park, restrooms, playground equipment, and pavilions at Johnson Park, awning, door, flooring, and gym ducting at the Boys and Girls Club, flooring at the Senior Center, freezer and stove at Jacksonville Towers, and a roof at the MSYC. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. Mayor ELmore c1osed the pub1ic hearing at approximate1y 6:20 p.m. By genera1 consensus, Counci1 approved the CDBG 2024 CAPER. b. INFO~TIONAL ITEM: Vo1unteer appointment process Council Member McCoy recalled having discussions with constituents regarding the appointment process and how there is no online submission form. She mentioned a lack of transparency being a continued concern presented to her, so to ensure fairness and accessibility, she confirmed with IT that a form can be submitted on the City's website. She revised the current form to include questions and add a requirement for appointees to attend the meeting when they are on the agenda. She brought up this is not only for Council, but also the residents to see who serves. She recalled when she initially submitted this, it had the City Clerk's email address for record keeping purposes and transparency. She told how some citizens would like to serve, but do not feel they would be selected, noting she knows some who mailed in the current form and have not heard anything back for over a year. c. ORDINANCE 1781 (#10-2025) AN ORDINANCE AMENDING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE § 8.03.018; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Ordinance 1781 was tabled per the sponsor, Council Member Twitty. APPOINTMENTS: CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Counci1 Member Ray moved, seconded by Counci1 Member LaBron to approve the reappointment of Bob Baker for a term to expire 04/01/2031. When Council Member McCoy inquired, Mr. Baker summarized that the Civil Service Commission monitors the fire and police departments by certifying entry-level test scores, certifying _one year and six month probationary periods for new hires and promotions, and also decides whether to uphold disciplinary actions or not when appeals are requested. MOTION CARRIED at this time. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS : ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor E1more adjourned the meeting at approximate1y 6:30 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, . ~ 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on April 17, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member Mimms was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Wastewater General Manager Thea Hughes, IT Director Brian Harvey, Officer Ernesto Ortiz, Selina Foltz, Wyatt Elmore, and John Ferrell. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of March 20, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of March 6, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 2 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/~CH Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 725,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 710,500.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/MnRCH Topic 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 3068 2730 Homicide Reported 1 0 Theft Reported Homicide Cleared 2 0 Theft Cleared Rape/Sex Assault Reported 4 4 Vehicle Theft Reported Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 2 2 Vehicle Theft Cleared Robbery Reported 4 4 Felony Cases Reported Robbery Cleared 2 0 Felony Cases Closed Felony Assaults Reported 16 17 Misd Cases Reported Felony Assaults Cleared 5 12 Misd Cases Closed 1 3 5 2 4 2025 52 31 6 4 123 69 228 157 2024 65 37 18 6 137 142 248 184 Burglary Reported Burglary Cleared 6 0 13 6 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/~CH Assigned Calls 46 Demolition by City 0 Self-Initiated Calls 166 Demolition by Owner 1 Follow Up Inspections 306 Parking Violations 0 Complied after Notice 94 Garbage Cans Tagged 3 Three Day Notice 20 Basketball Goals 1 Seven Day Letter 232 Structures Inspected 518 Citation Letters Mailed 37 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0 Citations Issued 2 Red Tags Issued 0 Vehicles Tagged 27 Search Warrants 0 Vehicles Towed 3 Grass Mowed 0 Unsafe Structures Tagged Structures Condemned Structures Rehabbed 0 Signs Removed 0 Shopping Carts 0 ANI~ SERVICES REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/~CH ADOPTION FEES $ SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS Paid by the City of Jacksonville Best Friends Animal Rescue Grant Paid for by Best Friends FINES CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL $ FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/~CH General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT : POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: Total Revenues $ 823,923 $ 421,471 $ 401,891 $ 49,054 $ 581,876 1,705.00 1,705.00 1,705.00 2,027.45 714.69 2,742.14 Total Ex2enditures $ 5,704,399 $ 369,967 $ 534, 372 $ 93,527 $ 661,900 4 0 PARKS & RECREATION: VIDEO PRESENTATION by Athletics Manager Joe Stoute and Morgan Allen Parks & Rec Athletics Manager Joe Stoute related that employee Morgan Allen is a huge part of what they do with the USSSA Autism Awareness Tournament, which is meant to highlight the Pathfinder organization. He listed a few local sponsors as Jacksonville A & P Commission, First Arkansas Bank and Trust, Unity Health, and RightFiber, but also other non-local, such as Fence 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. Brokers, Sun Coast, and Competitive Edge. He related it is an adult slowpitch softball event that included professional players who participated with 31 Pathfinder clients. He presented a map showing where participants traveled from that included at least 16 different states and Canada. He noted that 5 bat companies, 51 professional players, and 91 total teams were in attendance and they raised $6,000.00 for Pathfinder's sports booster club, which is being used for their travel to the Special Olympics. He mentioned having a huge media presence and shared pictures and information about the tournament. He thanked Parks & Rec for their involvement and hard work with the tournament and mentioned that it won the 2024 USSSA Event of the Year for the Southwest Region. Cindy Roach with Pathfinder recalled having 14 of their athletes sign up to play the tournament last year, but had 31 this year since they were very excited to participate in it. She brought up that the present athlete, Stone, participated both years and is already looking forward to next year. She pointed out that the event captures the sense of community that Pathfinder feels with Jacksonville. She thanked Parks & Rec, Manager Stoute, and Mrs. Allen for making it happen, noting they are extremely grateful to be a part of this community that fosters inclusion. Mrs. Allen described the excitement of a Pathfinder player as she made it to home plate during the game and how emotional it was. She emphasized that is what this is all about; it is not just about the athletes or players, but also about the families and the people who live it every day. She thanked those who attended and invited those who did not to attend next year. Manager Stoute shared videos of the tournament, noting one has had 600,000 views on social media. He stressed that this tournament would not have been possible without the Parks & Rec Department. Ms. Roach told how Parks & Rec employees Madison Davis and Diane Novotny helped train Pathfinder's Special Olympics swim team when their coach passed away unexpectedly. She thanked Parks & Rec again for always supporting and being there for them. PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1781 (#10-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 1808 NORTH BAILEY) ; AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Twitty stated this is to help our Code Enforcement Officers since several complaints have come in about parking large equipment in front yards and streets, which is not safe for our first responders. She explained this would allow one vehicle beside the driveway, side yard, or backyard and nothing large in the road or in the front yard anymore. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1781 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaB ron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1781. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE Ordinance 17 81 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1781 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 17 81 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1781 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1781 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1781 (#10-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 17TH DAY OF APRIL, 2025. City Attorney Friedman clarified standard parked in driveway or parallel to one side can be parked in the driveway, and any exterior face. passenger vehicles can still be of it, only trailers and campers equipment has to be behind the b. March 2025 Financials presented by Finance Director Laura Collie Council Member McCoy requested an overview of the report, noting there were questions regarding deficits. Finance Director Laura Collie explained the monthly financials are prepared for Council to stay apprised of the money coming in versus what was budgeted for. She listed the funds as General, Street, Sanitation, EMS, and the Shooting Range. She pointed out that the first sheet of each fund shows the revenues versus the expenditures. She related that the reason for the deficit is because the tax money that is received in January and February is for November and December, so the money is recorded in 2024, not 2025. She confirmed the report also shows Water and Wastewater investments, which is technically City of Jacksonville money, but the City does not control it. APPOINTMENTS: SEWER COMMISSION Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the reappointment of Fred Belote for a term to expire 04/20/2030. Council Member McCoy thanked Mr. Belote for being present. MOTION CARRIED at this time. 4 JACKSONVILLE HOUSING AUTHORITY CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the appointment of Shanacee Person to the unexpired teDn of Tanner Ruple set to expire 03/17/2026. Council Member McCoy explained that Ms. Person is not present due to her attendance at her son's event, but she is happy to have her serve. MOTION CARRIED at this time with Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: 2025 Youth Shooting Sports Tournaments Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House announced the tournaments start next Friday and Saturday and there will be four weeks of regionals followed by the State tournament. He related that 6,000 children are participating and will be in Jacksonville over the next four weeks. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:38 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular session on May 1, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE ( 9) ABSENT ONE ( 1) . Council Member McCleary arrived at approximately 6:05 p.m. and left at approximately 6:35 p.m. Council Member Dietz was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Human Resource Director Charlette Nelson, Finance Director Laura Collie, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Communications Director Emily Sundermeier, IT Director Brian Harvey, Officer Darian Farmer, Reginald Ford, Tristan Ambeau, Morgan Allen, Kathy Perez, Michelle Elmore, and Chris Erkel. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of April 17, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of March 20, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: WATER DEPARTMENT : WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: a. ORDINANCE 1782 (#11-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 3121 AND 3125 NORTH FIRST STREET); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1782 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1782. Council Member McCoy shared a concern regarding the use of the emergency clause for rezonings when its purpose is for the preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, confirmed by the Arkansas Municipal League. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. A brief discussion ensued that mentioned possible development delays if the emergency clause was not added to rezonings. Council Member McCoy stated Council Member Dietz confirmed these were not emergencies, therefore, warranting the removal of these clauses. City Engineer Adam Whitlow explained that C-2 is Commercial and R-3 is Multi- Family Residential. He related these parcels are surrounded by R-3 and was unsure of why it was ever zoned C-2. Citizen Richelle Brittain confirmed she sold 3121 North First Street to this developer last year. She noted it always had a house on it and the developer shared his plans to tear down the house to expand his apartment complex he owns next door. Council Member McCoy moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to AMEND Ordinance 17 8 2 to REMOVE THE EMERGENCY CLAUSE. ROLL CALL: Council Member McCleary, McCoy, and Moss voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1782 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1782 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1782 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1782 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1782 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary, McCoy, and Moss voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1782 (#11-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 15TDAY OF MAY, 2025. b. ORDINANCE 1783 (#12-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT DUPREE-STONE ADDN); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1783 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1783 . Engineer Whitlow stated a Planned Unit Development ( PUD) is unique and not done often in Jacksonville. He explained it allows the applicant to submit a site plan, along with the rezone application, that demonstrates their unique design with some non-conforming conditions. He related there were no calls received regarding the request and it was properly advertised before the Planning Commission meeting. Council Member McCoy reiterated her concern with having the emergency clause attached. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1783 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1783 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 3 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1783 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1783 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1783 (#12-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 1 8TDAY OF MAY, 2025. c. ORDINANCE 1784 (#13-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 7430 T. P. WHITE DRIVE) ; AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place Ordinance 1784 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1784. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. Engineer Whitlow brought up that the main difference in these zones is that C-4 allows open display. Council Member McCoy reiterated her concern with having the emergency clause attached. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 4 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 17 8 4 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 1784 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1784 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1784 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1784 (#13-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 16TDAY OF MAY, 2025. d. ORDINANCE 1785 (#14-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 420 WEST HICKORY); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1785 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the headinq of Ordinance 1785. At approximately 6:35 p.m., Council Member McCleary excused himself from the meeting early to attend another scheduled commitment. Engineer Whitlow believes this property was zoned R-0 with a conditional use. He explained there was once a residence on one side and a salon on the other. He confirmed there were no calls to Public Works regarding this request. 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING ~y 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1785 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1785 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 1785 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1785 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1785 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1785 (#14-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 18TDAY OF ~Y, 2025. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1786 (#15-2025) AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE LOCATION OF IN-GROUND/ABOVE-GROUND SWIMMING POOLS WITHIN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS , CREATING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE 8.05.021; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place Ordinance 1786 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1786. Council Member Twitty mentioned for the safety of the public, they are asking to only put swimming pools, with proper fencing, in the backyard. Mayor Elmore noted this is for pools deeper than 24 inches, not the shallower kiddie pools. Council Member McCoy brought up that this is a good example of properly attaching an emergency clause, since it is for the preservation of the health and safety of the public. Mayor Elmore shared that the house where this is an issue has been cited by Code Enforcement and has a court date in June. Police Captain Ryan Wright confirmed the Judge can assess up to a $250.00 per day fine. He related that citizens not in compliance would have ten days, from when they mail a letter, to remove the pool. 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. Council Member Twitty told how someone setup a pool up and claimed to have a fence coming in on a Friday, but it was never put up. She affirmed that for safety reasons, they need to be put in backyards only. Mayor Elmore clarified that this ordinance would not allow pools in the side or front yard, only in a backyard. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 6 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1786 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 6 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1786 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1786 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1786 (#15-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 18TDAY OF MAY, 2025. b. Update by Director of Economic Development Robert Birch Director Birch shared an update from the most recent legislative session highlighting SJR15-Proposed Constitutional Amendment: Economic Development Districts. He described how SB505-Streamlined Administrative Rezoning Process would allow rezoning requests, consistent with the City's adopted Land Use Plan, to be approved administratively without involving the Planning Commission. He mentioned supporting SB307-Generating Arkansas Jobs Act of 2025 (Utility Infrastructure for Economic Development), which changed when rate increases take effect after utility companies do a large investment energy project. He recalled that Jacksonville lost Amazon's interest in building here because we could not give them an answer on being able to provide enough power. He confirmed the City has new local restaurants coming soon. APPOINTMENTS : UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: City Council meeting schedule adjustments for May & June Mayor Elmore announced since Jacksonville High School's graduation is on May 15th, the City Council meeting will be rescheduled to May 22nct. He confirmed the meeting of June 19th will be canceled due to the Juneteenth holiday and the Arkansas Municipal League Summer Conference. 6 Parks & Reo Events CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 1, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. This item was for informational purposes only and not discussed. Community Health Fair Council Member McCoy announced that the NAACP will be hosting a Community Health Fair on Saturday, May 17th at 424 Church Street. Chamber of Commerce Council Member Kinman thanked the Chamber of Commerce Leadership Academy Class III for being in attendance tonight. Jacksonville High School Council Member Mimms related the Senior Walk and Parade will be on May 13th. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor ELmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:00 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, ~ORE 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RESCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 22, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a rescheduled session on May 22, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member Moss was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Assistant Fire Chief Dewan Laws, Human Resource Director Charlette Nelson, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, IT Director Brian Harvey, Morgan Allen, and Wyatt Elmore. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of May 1, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ray that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of April 17, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member McCoy noted a correction on the bottom of page 35 of the agenda where the total investments held at First Arkansas and Bank of the Ozarks are swapped. When Council Member Twitty requested, Finance Director Laura Collie related that she would have to go back and reevaluate it; she cannot confirm it just standing here. She noted Council Member McCoy could be correct, but she cannot confirm those numbers are exact without going back and refiguring it herself. She stated it would appear that it is swapped. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED Building Permits Business License 16 1 INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 14,500.00 Savings total for the month: $ 1,432,500.00 60 81 69 73 r CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RESCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 22, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL To.eic 2025 2024 2025 Total Complaint Calls 3042 2763 Homicide Reported 0 0 Theft Reported 39 Homicide Cleared 0 0 Theft Cleared 30 Rape/Sex Assault Reported 3 1 Vehicle Theft Reported 6 Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 5 7 Vehicle Theft Cleared 4 Robbery Reported 3 3 Felony Cases Reported 83 Robbery Cleared 3 3 Felony Cases Closed 132 Felony Assaults Reported 18 17 Misd Cases Reported 270 Felony Assaults Cleared 18 18 Misd Cases Closed 190 Burglary Reported 4 8 Burglary Cleared 3 5 CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL Assigned Calls 88 Demolition by City Self-Initiated Calls 255 Demolition by Owner Follow Up Inspections 522 Parking Violations Complied after Notice 136 Garbage Cans Tagged Three Day Notice 38 Basketball Goals Seven Day Letter 332 Structures Inspected Citation Letters Mailed 21 Apartment Complexes Inspected Citations Issued 6 Red Tags Issued Vehicles Tagged 30 Search Warrants Vehicles Towed 5 Grass Mowed Unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts Structures Rehabbed 2 ANIMAL SERVICES REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL ADOPTION FEES $ SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS Paid by the City of Jacksonville Best Friends Animal Rescue Grant Paid for by Best Friends FINES CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT /APRIL $ 1,210.00 1,210.00 1,210.00 1,687.36 2,175.40 3,862.76 2024 59 47 11 3 122 129 267 218 0 3 4 0 2 865 2 3 0 0 3 0 Total Revenues Total Expenditures General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund D.TER DEPARTMENT : D.STED.TER DEPARTMENT: $ 4,581,291 $ 929,784 $ 406,569 $ 98,228 $ 811,337 2 $ $ $ $ $ 7,802,354 533,764 709,920 129,121 909,437 FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RESCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 22, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. STREET DEPARTMENT: Request to accept bid: 2025 Asphalt Overlay Proqram City Engineer Adam Whitlow recommended approval of the low bid from CK Asphalt. He provided information regarding the streets allocated, along with an anticipated adjustment. He related the anticipated expenditures are $449,960.32, but he cannot do a change order until the City awards the contract. He mentioned for future use, a company did an evaluation on the City streets and gave a conditions index. He explained how it is color coded with red, yellow, and green, and is tied to a data spreadsheet. He brought up using this data to form a five year overlay program in the future. He noted the Community Center was pulled off the list and is part of his anticipated adjustment, while also converting some street seal treatments to full overlays to meet budget. He confirmed there was $475,000.00 allocated to asphalt overlay for the year, and since some has been expended, he estimated $450,000.00 for the planned streets. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to accept the low bid of $504,208.18 from CK Asphalt for the 2025 Asphalt Overlay Proqram. MOTION CARRIED. SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: ORDINANCE 1787 (#16-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 624 SOUTH SPRING STREET); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Ordinance McCleary, CARRIED. Member 1787 McCoy, Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. place Ruple, MOTION City Attorney Friedman pointed out the title declares an emergency, but there is no emergency clause, so if approved, she will provide City Clerk Davitt an updated ordinance removing it. She then read the headinq of Ordinance 1787. Council Member McCleary moved, seconded by Council Member Ray to APPROVE Ordinance 1787 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1787 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1787 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1787 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RESCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MJ\.Y 22, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1787 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1787 (#16-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 22~ DAY OF MAY, 2025. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: ORDINANCE 1788 (#17-2025) AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF FENCING WITHIN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS , CREATING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODES 8.05.011, 8.05.035-08.05.050; AND AMENDING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODES 8.05.011, 8.05.020, 8.05.030, AND 18.32.140 AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to place Ordinance 1788 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the headinq of Ordinance 1788. Engineer Whitlow mentioned currently not having a way to regulate fences, noting it is difficult when there is no permitting process. He confirmed this is for residential properties only and addresses front yard fencing being no more than four feet in height and more ornamental than anything. He explained it sets fence height to six feet for rear and side yards, restricts gates across driveways, and notes there can be additional restrictions due to covenants, utility service agreements, etc. He added that it addresses placement over easements, providing access to them, and sets location requirements. He brought up issues where people set the fence back, do not give themselves access to easements, and then expect the City to maintain it. He confirmed fences cannot impede the flow of water or interfere with normal collection of garbage, yard waste, or bulky items. He detailed that citizens would have to provide plans and specifications to the Public Works Department, along with a $10.00 permit fee, unless it is reviewed in conjunction with a building permit. When a citizen in the audience inquired, he replied that a permit is required for modifications or new fencing, but he does not consider a repair a modification if the location or character is not being changed. He confirmed the ordinance is not retroactive, so it does not affect existing fences. He clarified that any material not otherwise used by the fencing industry is not allowed, but with any extenuating circumstances, they can come to the Board of Adjustment to plead their case. Council Member Ruple shared his concern for the extra steps this would be for citizens. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 8 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1788 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Ruple voting NAY. 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE RESCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 22, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:30 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1788 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1788 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Ruple voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1788 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Ruple voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1788 (#17-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 22w DAY OF MAY, 2025. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council Member Ruple recalled having house fires in Ward 1 that mostly occurred due to fireplace chimneys. He encouraged citizens to have their fireplaces properly cleaned to avoid the further loss of lives and properties. He also told how a lightning strike caused a wire to catch fire during rain, which would have caused the connected vacant home to burn. He thanked Fire Marshal Mike Williams for his knowledge and the Fire Department for doing a great job. Council Member McCoy thanked the Fire and Police Departments for their participation in the health and wellness community event held last Saturday. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:30 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 5 [ CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 5, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on June 5, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member McCleary was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Captain Kim Lett, Finance Director Laura Collie, Human Resource Director Charlette Nelson, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, IT Director Brian Harvey, Communications Director Emily Sundermeier, Morgan Allen, Carter Elmore, Reginald Ford, and Jim Moore. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the rescheduled City Council meeting of May 22, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman that the minutes of the regular City Council meetinq of May 1, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the consent aqenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/MAY PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 10 3 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT CORRECTION/APRIL INVESTMENTS Centennial Bank Bank of the Ozarks First Arkansas Bank & Trust WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT : POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT : SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : $ $ $ Totals 74,560.65 1, 983,721.66 23,354,635.50 36 86 56 55 GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1789 (#18-2025) CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 5, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AND MODIFY JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE §2.44.010 (EMPLOYEE POLICY MANUAL) ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1789 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1789. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 9 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1789 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 17 8 9 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1789 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1789 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1789 (#18-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 5TH DAY OF JUNE, 2025. b. Nixon Farm drainage easements infrastructure and community support proposal-Dana Nixon Dana Nixon, Owner of Nixon Farm, recalled speaking to Council about agritourism and requested support to form a community garden. She told how council members toured the farm, saw the pipeline easement, and a great area for the garden. She related that Dunbar Community Garden in Little Rock is her inspiration, but St. Joseph's in North Little Rock is also great. She mentioned the Boys and Girls Club CEO being interested in a partnership and listed possibilities of working with them, the Senior Center, schools, and library. She told how Dunbar is huge, has existed a long time, and also has animals, bees, produce stand, and educational programs. She will research what those cities have done and will keep Council filled in. She related a nonprofit would have to be established, but since she is a lawyer, she can do it. She mentioned speaking with the CDBG Director who stated there may be an opportunity to get into the 2025 plan for Neighborhood Revitalization. She brought up possibly donating 38 acres next to the Shooting Range to the City, but is still needing clarification on if Parks and Rec wants just the buildable 17 acres or not, since she could sell the back for turkey hunting. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 5, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. She recalled council members seeing the huge ditches, but no one knows they are there since no one sees the back of the property, other than her and her guests. She related she cannot get down the drainage ditches now because it has not been mowed all year, she cannot see where she is going, there are holes and erosion, and the bridges are washed out, all causing it to be unsafe. She shared her concern for not only her safety, but the people who wander onto the property and squatters since emergency vehicles cannot get to the back. She explained there were three bridges on the Nixon-Delaney ditch, but two of those are gone and the other is deteriorating. She described a small channel cut by the City, but is deep where you cannot get a vehicle across, and the culvert area has eroded so is now only wide enough for a golf cart, causing virtually no access to the back 80 acres. She recalled the ditches being there since the 1960s and formalized in the 1980s to be specifically City maintenance, but has not been taken care of in the last 10 years. She does not care about rebuilding the two bridges, but does want the third that is strong enough to get everyone to the back. She emphasized the safety issue is her main concern, since subdivisions surround the farm and forest fires are possible. Mayor Elmore recalled receiving documentation Monday from the 1980s signed by the City agreeing to take care of these ditches and easements. He added in 1991, Mayor Swaim and the chair of the Wastewater Commission signed agreeing to specifics regarding the ditches of who maintains the northside, eastside, and bridge. Mrs. Nixon requested a meeting to come up with a schedule to be put in writing. When Council Member McCoy inquired, she replied that she has been communicating about the erosion for years and she sent most of these documents, along with a letter, in March and have not heard back. City Attorney Friedman related she did not receive that email, but only pictures sent separately, which she thought she was included on just to be in the loop, and that is why she did not address it. Mrs. Nixon noted she called and left messages, but had gotten no response. She affirmed this is not the first time the Mayor or City Engineer knew about this, and Engineer Whitlow has seen this documentation before. A brief discussion ensued regarding possible routes emergency services could take to access the back property if necessary. Mrs. Nixon then recommended that the City install a water meter on Graham Road and put up a fence around the community garden to keep deer out. When Council Member McCoy mentioned the possible donation of land, she responded that she has someone who can do an appraisal on it. APPOINTMENTS: 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 5, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Council Member Ruple mentioned constituents calling to share concerns regarding the recently passed fence ordinance. He thanked those involved in preparing the ordinance for their time, hard work, and dedication, but wants to make sure that Council, as a whole, feels comfortable with moving forward with it. He shared his concern of the City charging citizens for something on their private property and also that there are some residents where a six foot fence does not provide privacy and/or security, depending on how the horne is laid out. Council Member McCoy noted she has had several citizens reach out to her as well, but there is more time before it takes effect since the code that stated 30 days was updated and voided what was previously there, therefore, it defaulted back to 90 or 91 days. City Attorney Friedman confirmed citizens who have extenuating circumstances can come to the City, explain, and request permission. NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Parks & Rec Events for June Mayor Elmore announced that a Parks and Recreation events sheet was in the packet and will be submitted every month. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meetinq at approximately 6:31 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 3, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:26 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on July 3, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member Mimms was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow, Finance Director Laura Collie, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, IT Director Brian Harvey, and Reginald Ford. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of June 5, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ray that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of May 22, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/~Y Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 187,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 0.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/~Y TOEiC 2025 2024 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 2907 2774 Homicide Reported 1 1 Theft Reported 74 56 Homicide Cleared 1 0 Theft Cleared 32 62 Rape/Sex Assault Reported 4 6 Vehicle Theft Reported 9 10 Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 2 4 Vehicle Theft Cleared 5 2 Robbery Reported 2 3 Felony Cases Reported 149 139 Robbery Cleared 0 6 Felony Cases Closed 142 148 Felony Assaults Reported 17 23 Misd Cases Reported 260 281 Felony Assaults Cleared 6 30 Misd Cases Closed 213 228 Burglary Reported 18 13 Burglary Cleared 1 11 CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/~Y Assigned Calls 105 Demolition by City 1 Self-Initiated Calls 261 Demolition by Owner 11 Follow Up Inspections 762 Parking Violations 2 Complied after Notice 196 Garbage Cans Tagged 0 Three Day Notice 19 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 3, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:26 P.M. Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 322 Structures Inspected 1128 Citation Letters Mailed 34 Apartment Complexes Inspected Citations Issued 4 Red Tags Issued Vehicles Tagged 43 Search Warrants Vehicles Towed 5 Grass Mowed Unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts Structures Rehabbed 0 FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/~Y General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: Total Revenues $ 7,265,650 $ 1,076,395 $ 694,519 $ 167,756 $ 1,045,081 POLICE DEPARTMENT: ORDINANCE 1791 (#20-2025) Total $ $ $ $ $ Expenditures 10,922,870 796,015 935,386 184,248 1,190,765 0 2 7 35 10 2 AN ORDINANCE WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR THE JACKSONVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT VEHICLES; FOR APPROPRIATE IMPLEMENTATION AND ACCESS FOR DEPARTMENT AND CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REPRESENTATIVES; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place Ordinance 17 91 on FIRST READING. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1791. City Attorney Friedman noted the difference between the new ordinance in front of Council and the one in the packet is the vendor. Police Chief Brett Hibbs explained these are for PPV (Police Pursuit Vehicle) Chevrolet Tahoes. He confirmed three dealerships in Arkansas received them this year and he ordered last year from Superior Chevrolet. He mentioned a State contract through Bale Chevrolet, but they do not have black two-wheel drive models. He stated Superior got thirty, but only have four left after holding these three. He noted $51,000.00 each is less than what he budgeted and is $500.00 less than State contract, which is why he wants to waive bidding. He recalled being short on vehicles for years and getting rid of old ones that are unsafe or too costly to maintain. He told how a 2024 Tahoe was recently wrecked and quoted $30,000.00 to fix, but they will use it for parts to save money on upfitting a new one. Regarding the emergency, he brought up how dealerships do not want sold cars sitting on the lot and being responsible for them, so it does not make sense to wait. He noted they auction off old vehicles on govdeals.com and bought the most recent CID cars locally at Gwatney, who does not receive the PPV Tahoes to sell. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 3, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:26 P.M. Council Member Dietz moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to APPROVE Ordinance 1791 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1791 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE Ordinance 1791 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1791 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1791 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1791 (#20-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 3~ DAY OF JULY, 2025. STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: APPEAL HEARING Rezoning denial of Forest Oaks Subdivision PH IV from R-0 to Planned Unit Development Mayor Elmore opened the hearing at approximately 6:11 p.m. Developer John Kennon withdrew the appeal, but wanted to clarify their scope of work since there has been misinformation and confusion. He confirmed they will submit a different plan to the Planning Commission and acknowledged the mistake of not addressing the area residents, so they will be having an open forum to address concerns. Mayor Elmore noted because they withdrew the appeal, there will be no discussion since this is potential future business. He closed the hearing at approximately 6:13 p.m. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1790 (#19-2025) AN ORDINANCE AMENDING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE § 2.04.025, EFFECTIVE DATE OF LEGISLATION, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 3, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:26 P.M. Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ray to place Ordinance 1790 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1790. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 17 90 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1790 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE Ordinance 17 90 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1790 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1790 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1790 (#19-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 3~ DAY OF JULY, 2025. b. ORDINANCE 1792 (#21-2025) AN ORDINANCE DISSOLVING THE JACKSONVILLE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION; REPEALING CHAPTER 2. 26 OF THE JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND 1 FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Kinman moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to place Ordinance 1792 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Ray voting NAY. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1792. Mayor Elmore stated they are not getting rid of any history; this is dissolving the City of the Historic Commission. He confirmed the Historical Society and the Jacksonville Historical District are still intact and it does not affect them. He reiterated all this is doing is eliminating the Commission, which made it a part of the City government. He confirmed this would end the use of City property and taxpayer dollars going to pay their utilities, etc., but does not get rid of historical items within the museum. He related those will be picked up by the owners or the Historical Society. Council Member Ray mentioned not having a public building to welcome visitors to view the history of Jacksonville. He noted those who grew up here may want to show their grandchildren the City and there will be no public viewing now. He believes the historical items should be on display. He recalled mentions of the Military Museum taking over the items, but now there are talks of giving them back to who loaned them. 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 3, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:26 P .M. Mayor Elmore reiterated the City is not getting rid of anything, but some owners have requested items back and others requested for them to still be displayed. He contacted the Military Museum curator who would love to curate this and there are original members of the Society who would still like to do their own thing. He confirmed if that is what they want to do, they can, but as a City government, we are not a part of it. He related how the Commission was not operating properly; no financials or minutes were turned in, so there was liability being placed on the City. He added with the incident that happened last summer, this is the best course of action for the City. Council Member Ray suggested building open to the public so view the history of the City. reorganizing the Commission and keeping the anyone can stop by during operational hours to Mayor Elmore noted the City has been giving use of the building, paying utilities, insurance, maintenance, and everything that has been required for the Museum to occupy the space. He confirmed the City was given the Jim's Pawn Shop building. City Clerk Davitt stated the Museum building was donated a long time ago and was used as the WAGE Center. Mayor Elmore confirmed the Museum has not been open since August 2024; they would accept donations and charge a $5.00 admission fee, but the City has not seen or been given all records, just bank statements. Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to APPROVE Ordinance 17 92 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1792 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. Council Member McCoy, Ray, LaBron, and Moss voted NAY. MOTION CARRIED to approve on first reading, but FAILED to suspend the rules. Mayor Elmore confirmed it did not pass to suspend the rules, therefore, it can be readdressed at a second meeting. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor E1more adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:26 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on July 17, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Chief Dewan Laws, Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Finance Collie, Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow, Michelle Spencer, and Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez. Assistant Fire Director Laura CDBG Director PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of July 3, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of June 5, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 23 6 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 24,200.00 765,800.00 Savings total for the month: $ POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE To,eic 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 2787 2546 Homicide Reported 1 1 Theft Reported Homicide Cleared 1 0 Theft Cleared Rape/Sex Assault Reported 3 3 Vehicle Theft Reported Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 2 0 Vehicle Theft Cleared Robbery Reported 1 1 Felony Cases Reported Robbery Cleared 2 0 Felony Cases Closed Felony Assaults Reported 18 9 Misd Cases Reported Felony Assaults Cleared 19 6 Misd Cases Closed Burglary Reported 18 9 Burglary Cleared 6 12 45 54 37 27 2025 51 25 4 1 116 103 263 193 2024 60 49 6 2 103 153 269 225 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE Assigned Calls 107 Demolition by City 9 Self-Initiated Calls 213 Demolition by Owner 0 Follow Up Inspections 707 Parking Violations 7 Complied after Notice 151 Garbage Cans Tagged 0 Three Day Notice 30 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 299 Structures Inspected 1027 Citation Letters Mailed 39 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0 Citations Issued 9 Red Tags Issued 1 Vehicles Tagged 38 Search Warrants 2 Vehicles Towed 4 Grass Mowed 157 unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed 13 Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts 0 Structures Rehabbed 2 FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/JUNE General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT : SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : Total Revenues $ 9,705,117 $ 1,339,469 $ 706,363 $ 196,824 $ 1,256,651 GENERAL: a. SECOND READING ORDINANCE 1792 (#21-2025) Total $ $ $ $ $ Expenditures 13,163,522 803,692 1,107,750 231,998 1,430,273 AN ORDINANCE DISSOLVING THE JACKSONVILLE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION; REPEALING CHAPTER 2 . 2 6 OF THE JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Kinman moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1792 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, Moss, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE and Council Member Dietz, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, and Twitty voting NAY. MOTION CARRIED with Mayor Elmore voting AYE to break the tie vote. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the headinq of Ordinance 1792. Council Member Kinman requested confirmation this would not dissolve the Historical Museum, but only the Commission. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. Mayor Elmore concurred, saying this dissolves the Commission, which is separate from the Historical Society that is an official 50l(c) (3) Board of Directors, stands on its own, and has been in place. He explained the Commission has not operated in its proper function and the District/Society would stay in place since the City has no oversight and they are their own entity. He reiterated this would end the Commission that reports to the City and the legal liability for it. Council Member Ray brought up dissolving the Commission and selling the building. He recalled hearing the City was going to put out a memo for the owners to pick items up, so he took that as the entire thing being dissolved. Mayor Elmore confirmed the Museum has been closed since August of last year. He mentioned rumors he was throwing away i terns in two days, but that is incorrect. He confirmed anyone who has possessions there can retrieve them any time. He stressed that this has nothing to do with the Museum; this is just about the non-functioning Commission. He recalled it was formed years after the Society created the Museum and this will remove City oversight. Council Member Ray "dissolve," because thing. suggested reorganizing it everyone thinks the City instead of is throwing using the word away the entire Mayor Elmore clarified that it never operated properly by having public meetings, maintaining records, keeping meeting minutes, and all financials turned into Finance; none of that was happening. He reiterated that they can still function as their own Society and does not have to be a part of the City government. City Attorney Friedman confirmed she had sent Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests for the financial information, but has not received anything. When Council Member Moss inquired about the Museum building, Mayor Elmore reiterated that it has nothing to do with the Commission, but it will probably be sold since the City is reducing properties. He affirmed that the Museum is not going back into it, no matter what happens with the Commission. He related that there was never a lease signed between the City and the Society. Mayor Elmore brought up that Robin Wakefield is the CEO. Council Member Twitty mentioned that Jerry Sanders wants more time to get their belongings out. Mayor Elmore stated people can come with City supervision and a member of the Society to retrieve their items. When Council Member Kinman inquired if the Society could purchase the building, he replied that it could be possible. He added that there was an individual who made an offer on it, but it was months ago and was not accepted. 3 • J CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. City Attorney Friedman confirmed this would not change how the Society is ran; this is an administrative issue. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 17 92 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1792 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Ray and LaBron voting NAY and Council Member McCoy ABSTAINING. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1792 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Ray, LaBron, and Moss voting NAY and Council Member McCoy ABSTAINING. ORDINANCE 1792 (#21-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 17TH DAY OF JULY, 2025. b. PRESENTATION: At-Large Voting by Former Council Member, Terry Sansing, NAACP members Former Council Member Terry Sansing recalled being against ward-based voting, but during a discussion with Reginald Ford, he changed his mind. He explained in the past, some candidates won their ward, but still lost because it was voted at-large. He noted the people in the ward wanted them as representation, but did not get them. He told how a citizen was asked by a friend to display signs in her yard, but had no idea who the candidates were, or which were for her ward. He pointed out that this is not a good way to have a representative form of government if the constituents do not know who they are voting for. He mentioned incumbents having a great advantage because they have a known name and opponents have to fight hard to get theirs known. He acknowledged Jacksonville and Council are mostly conservative-minded, but there are other ways. He brought up a possibility of having one seat at-large and the other ward-based, so Council can see how it is working for the City. Steve Grappe of Stand Up Arkansas and the Jacksonville NAACP shared a PowerPoint presentation regarding at-large versus ward-based elections. He mentioned Stand Up Arkansas' mission to improve civic engagement, since the State is ranked 51st using the Civic Engagement Index. He explained it takes into consideration the number of registered voters and those who vote. He related that the City is 50% lower than the State average, so they have been looking at ways to get more people involved, running for office, and voting. He mentioned receiving a grant to increase civic engagement and how in the last election Stonewall, Foxwood, and Stonewall East neighborhoods accounted for 54% of all votes and decided every wards' council member. He brought up a 20-25% difference in voting between Ward 5 and 2 with areas of the City that has not had a council member in at least five cycles, so there are people who are not getting represented. He pointed out that at-large voting is against the people in their own ward because here, we have 29,000+ people, 24,000 are eligible to vote, but we have many wards where less than 50% do. He told how with ward-based elections, everyone can get a bite of their "piece of the pien because they do not have to worry about influencing parts of the City 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. they do not know. He noted that now, candidates have to reach 29,000 people; no matter where you live, what your income is, or your neighborhood's socioeconomic level. He surmised they would need at least $10,000 to campaign, but if it is broken down to wards, it creates an affordability to get into the race. He wants informed voters who research and know candidates, but it is hard to know five wards-worth. He recalled growing up on Shirley Cove on the east side of the City, an area that does not get the same attention as others. He related how people in that neighborhood are not voting as much because they do not feel they are being heard. He confirmed changing is not a costly endeavor, noting Cabot did it for less than $3,000 and Conway and Fayetteville have done it also. He recalled Conway changing theirs to ward-based in 2014, then the next election had a record number of candidates. He added that they also got sidewalk specs that had been on the docket for 10 years in the lower income part of town. He told how the State passed legislation last spring that states if cities are going to change by Council voting on it, it has to be filed with the Clerk by August 31st for the next election. He believes the citizens want it, adding that they have petitions signed from each ward. He told how Senator Jamie Scott supports the change and surmised Representative Mark Perry would. He invited everyone to a townhall meeting 2-4 p.m. Saturday at the Nixon Library for their input. Council Member McCoy brought up that a hybrid structure would be a fair compromise, with one seat at-large and the other ward-based. Council Member Kinman suggested putting it on the ballot to let the citizens vote, since it should not be decided only by Council. Council Member Dietz agreed . Council Member McCoy clarified there is ordinance and vote. She mentioned this citizens have given their input. no cost for Council is not just Council to draft an deciding, but Council Member Twitty surmised those same citizens would be willing to put i t on the ballot. She mentioned transparency and how not every citizen is in attendance tonight or aware of this possible change. She asked if the City is going to do something this big, why not let the voters decide? Mr. Grappe confirmed if this is put on the ballot, it will not take effect until 2028. He pointed out that the State has dismantled the ballot initiative system, noting there were twelve laws passed at the last General Election to make the ballot initiative system almost obsolete and intentionally done to stop the process. He stated that would be costly to the City, but if Council changes it and did not like it, they could reverse it the next cycle. He affirmed if Council waits and does a ballot initiative, it is going to divide the City, because people will organize. Council Member Ray recalled an at-large person added to each ward for a better cross section of people elected. He would not have gotten elected if he was in a ward section, because there is not a dominant ward in the City. 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. Council Member Twitty confirmed Cabot has denied this change several times. Mr. Grappe clarified that Conway, not Cabot, just passed it. He told how if the City has a ward that does not have good voter turnout, for example Ward 2, they can never have a say in who their representative is. Council Member Ray mentioned how the forefathers saw fit to try to make a cross section of the people of Jacksonville to get elected. Mr. Grappe replied that the system in the U.S. was created to where it can change with the times, because all of the things the forefathers put in place were not right. He noted a lot of amendments have been made, and this is the latest in doing better for the people and what they want. He surmised if this was put on the ballot, it would win by 65%. Council Member Kinman affirmed whether at-large or ward-based, she is going to work for all the people of Jacksonville. Mr. Sansing brought up that Council was voted in by the citizens to be their representatives and to make decisions. He suggested they discuss it, decide what form, and go with it, since Council is entirely within their right to decide how the voting is done. He confirmed since they have been voted into office, the people trust the decisions they make. Council Member McCoy mentioned Council voting on ordinances and making decisions for everyone without every citizens' input; this is no different from that. She suggested keeping an open mind and not be resistant to change. Council Member Twitty reiterated that all citizens, not just the ten council members, should make that decision. Council Member Dietz moved to ADJOURN the meeting. MOTION DIED for lack of a second. ADDITION TO AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to SUSPEND THE RULES to add an appointment to the agenda. MOTION CARRIED. APPOINTMENTS: A & P COMMISSION Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to approve the appointment of Edgar Atilano for a term to expire 03-31-2029. MOTION CARRIED. RESUME AGENDA: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: Citizen Concern Citizen Todd Underwood of 602 Welham Street mentioned due to the flooding and uncleanliness of the City. about grass not being mowed and trash being around. 6 considering moving away He brought up concerns CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:01 P.M. Mayor Elmore replied there are hard working city employees to do those jobs, but part of the issue is being understaffed. He noted another problem is people not taking responsibility and disposing of trash appropriately. Council Member McCoy suggested starting a group, or connecting with the NAACP group that adopted Graham Road and picks up litter once a quarter. Council Member Twitty related that she speaks weekly to Code Enforcement regarding such citizen concerns. She told how there is a particular house that is unsafe, trashy, and not mowed that she get complaints on consistently, but Code has a lengthy list of yards to mow and the process addressing citations is lengthy as well having to wait on court dates, etc. Mr. Underwood understood, but stated they would like the value of their home to increase and if the neighborhood is going down, their value will as well. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council Member Birthday Mayor Elmore announced that Council Member Ray will be turning 85 years old this Sunday. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:01 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, --- 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on August 7, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Human Resource Director Charlette Nelson, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, Director of Economic Development Robert Birch, Director of Communications Emily Sundermeier, Jeff Twitty, Gary Fletcher, Jessica Cox, Barry Jefferson, and Reginald Ford. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of July 17, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Mimms that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of July 3, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT : POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE ( S) : GENERAL: a. PUBLIC HEARING FY25 CDBG Annual Action Plan Mayor Elmore opened the public hearing at approximately 6:02 p.m. CDBG Director Michelle Spencer stated: "Hello beautiful people of Jacksonville, Mayor, Council Members, and City comrades. This public hearing is being held in accordance to our citizen participation plan as it relates to the annual action plan process. We are currently in our 5th year of the 5- year Consolidated Plan from 2021-2025. All public notices were advertised in the Leader and a draft of the plan was posted on the website and various locations for review. 3 public meetings were held in June and had a total of 25 attendees with 20 surveys collected. All results can be found within the plan on pages 40-41. The 30-day public comment period was July 2nd-31St. During the period we received 1 comment as well as a request for a meeting, which was very interesting and a well thought out meeting, and is explained 1 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. in more detail on page 39. You'll notice in the comments, the eligible CDBG activities are notated and the comments mentioned more than once are also notated. I will be discussing the comments not related to Community Development with other department leads, so they are aware, in order to obtain possible solutions to those comments. Please note, there will be an additional advertisement insert dated August 6th, as well as 1 more clearance letter that will be sent from one of the state clearing officers next Monday. Both will be added prior to submission on or before August 13th as well as any corrections that are needed. I'll cover a few logistics, on behalf of Program Year 2025. We will allocate $55,729.00 to Housing & Housing Administration, $15,000.00 to Create a Suitable Living Environment: eliminating slum and blight, $15,000.00 to Economic Development: to create jobs or provide 'training, $80,000.00 to Public Facility/Improvements: with emphasis on repairs to Public Facilities and a Community Garden Project, $38,245.00 to Public Service, which has a 15% cap, and $50, 994.00 to Administration, which has a 20% cap. The Total of Anticipated Resources for 2025 is $254,968.00. We had a late start on 2024's award which was released in January 2025. We are currently expending the 2024 funds and will continue steadfast to expend those funds moving forward. We have accomplished so far this year; rehab projects and demos as well as public facility improvements. We will be knocking out additional home rehabs and public improvement activities to finish out the year strong. Since I have your attention, I would like to touch base on a few milestones during my tenure that I'm excited about. Did you know? During the Program Year 2022 we received $219,338.00 which was a 6% increase from 2021. Did you also know in 2023 we received $227,969.00 which was a 4% increase from 2022? In 2024 we received $230,739.00 which was a 1% increase from 2023. And last but not least in 2025 we will receive $254,968.00 which is an increase of 11% from 2024. Please note, the difference from 2020's allocation to this year's allocation is an increase of 21% over the 5 years. I would say that's a very positive accomplishment for Jacksonville, wouldn't you? Considering how across the nation, so many cities have experienced cuts in their CDBG award allocations, however despite those cuts, we (Jacksonville) have progressively increased over the years. I'll point out that I've finalized Mandated Reports successfully, which include 2022, 2023, 2024's Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER), the 2023 and 2024 Annual Action Plan (AAP) of the 5-year Consolidated Plan and most recently we've successfully processed the 2025 AAP. Also, reallocated the 2020 Substantial Amendment to the AAP for COVID funds and finally today received local HUD representative on the go ahead to be able to start processing that after three years, which is well overdue. I've also Administered each grant successfully through projects, programs and services on behalf of the very low to low-income residents of Jacksonville, administered projects after the disaster to assist citizens with damages to 2 r CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. and currently seeking to apply for assist the residents who were have not gained home stability as of their homes from the storms in 23 and 24, disaster recovery funds to further significantly affected by the storms and today's date, (more information to come). You all, these reports are usually outsourced to contractors in most cities. We were blessed to be able to contract with the previous director, due to her years of experience, in order to finalize the 2021-2022 AAP and 2021 CAPER prior to my start date and we didn't have to outsource. Since my tenure, ALL annual reports and end of year reports have been completed by yours truly, which is usually above and beyond the skill set for a new director and contracting is a must most times. I said all that to say while it's a very demanding task, the achievements are very rewarding for me when I can see the fruits of my labor manifest itself in increases in our annual allocations each year, which ultimately helps more of our low to moderate-income families and citizens. I have in front of me a very big decision to make regarding preparations for our next 5-year Con Plan, which will be due in 2026 and will cover the years of 2026-2030. Do I contract out or do I take on this very prodigious task, that's the question? With lots of time and preparation I veer more to the latter and will share the decision later in the year. Meanwhile I will be seeking a software contractor to convert all existing and future files and all our application processes over to an electronic database. In preparation of future programming to be added under the umbrella of Community Development, I will start to vet software vendors to assist with the filing and online databases we are currently needing. At this time, the software contractor will take the place of a part-time specialist. We will definitely explore hiring a specialist after the 2026 5-year Con Plan is finalized and our electronic system is up and running efficiently and effectively. Also, I am excited to share the name of our new subrecipient partnership that I will pass the 2024 public service baton to, which is Jacksonville Community Worship Center, who will continue to provide services to the residents of Jacksonville by way of food distribution, utility assistance, and temporary shelter assistance. They have been thoroughly trained and come with a wealth of experience and will start to administer funds soon. They will be presenting next on the agenda on all the services they currently provide and will be providing to the community. Moving forward we will announce through a request for proposal (RFP), for the 2025 sub-recipient public service application process to allow an opportunity for organizations to apply for public service funding who want to. Please note, in order to apply you would need to be an existing productive organization in Jacksonville for at least 1 year and be registered and in good standing with the non-profit status, among other requirements. I've covered quite a bit, and will now yield the floor for any questions you may have. Thank you" Mayor Elmore closed the public hearinq at approximately 6:13 p.m. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. b. PRESENTATION: New CDBG sub-recipient Operations Manager for Jacksonville Community Worship Center Sandra Thomas noted the pantry started in 2017 at 500 West Hickory Street. She recalled being near the Unsheltered, who would often stop in to request assistance for food, utilities, clothing, temporary shelter, and counseling services, which they provided through donations. She told how they moved to 424 Church Street in 2018, continued providing assistance, and through their partnership with the Arkansas Food Bank, provided 125,000 pounds of food. She stated in April, they became a host agency for Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, who is now also able to purchase from the Food Bank. She brought up when an apartment complex on Marshall Road had no utilities for 16 days, they provided two truckloads of food to the Marshall Road Baptist Church, who accepted them to store and now wants to be hosted as a food pantry. She mentioned the food boxes around the City are supplied by a non-profit, Shelter From the Rain, whose director, Mary Snider, is present. She explained they partnered with her to ensure they stay full since she is doing great work for the community. She noted they have had partnerships with healthcare facilities, master gardeners, and recently the NAACP for their well-attended Health and Wellness Fair. She affirmed with this Public Service funding, they aim to make a significant impact ensuring no child or family will be subjected to being hungry or homeless. She confirmed regardless of the size, no one church, business, or non-profit can reach everyone in our City who needs assistance. c. ORDINANCE 1793 (#22-2025) AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A HYBRID CITY COUNCIL SEAT STRUCTURE DESIGNATING POSITION 1 AS ~-BASED AND POSITION 2 AS AT-LARGE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member McCoy mentioned racial discord regarding the at-large voting question. She believes Council should be open and not push it to one side over another, because this impacts the entire City. She has petitions of people who want at-large voting dismantled, noting there was a poll on Facebook showing ward-based was preferred. She brought up the hybrid option was a fair compromise, but has since learned people want ward-based only. Council Member McCoy moved to place Ordinance 1793 on FIRST READING. Discussion ensued regarding which version to read, since two were provided, and it was determined to read the first, as stated above. Council Member Moss seconded the motion. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Dietz, McCleary, and Ray voting NAY. Mayor Elmore then read the heading of Ordinance 1793. Council Member Moss shared Ordinance 420 in 197 6 was regarding ward-based voting, but was not acted upon since the sponsor was not present at the meeting. He recalled the next time was Ordinance 1661 in 2021 that was voted down. He believes this is not a Council decision, but should go to the voters; although he is in favor of ward-based. 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. Council Member McCoy explained placing it on the ballot would require it be written for an S th grade reading level. She questioned if this would be the work of Council to prepare. City Clerk Davitt responded that Council would have to pass an ordinance to place it on the ballot. Council Member McCoy questioned if that is the direction Council wants to go. Council Member LaBron and Moss concurred. Council Member Twitty shared that she does not want Council to put it on the ballot, because she believes it is a conflict of interest to tell the public how to vote for her. She confirmed she is for at-large voting, but if a group or individual wants to put it on the ballot, it needs to be done that way if they are for it, but she is not. Council Member McCoy related if Council passes an ordinance changing to ward- based, it must be filed with the County Clerk by August 31st . Council Member Ruple noted the ordinance would need an emergency clause. City Clerk Davitt confirmed if Council puts it on the ballot, it is not the same deadline. She pointed out there would be a cost to put it on the ballot for the next General Election. Mayor Elmore explained if Council approves the ordinance, it would take effect for November of next year, but if placed on the ballot, he would have to speak to the Election Commission for the timeline. Council Member Kinman brought up texts received saying the population of the City needs to decide, affirming it should be on the ballot. Council Member McCoy mentioned some wanting at-large because they do not think people are responsible enough to represent their ward; so, the whole City wants to pick for that ward, instead of those who live there. She reiterated that there was polling done on social media favoring ward-based. Council Member Twitty noted the poll was taken down because a lot of people making remarks were not Jacksonville citizens. Council Member McCoy related there was a second more accurate one. She recommended ward-based only voting, so that it is fair. Mayor Elmore mentioned wards being set by the State dividing the City into as equal portions as possible. Council Member Moss shared that Ordinance 1222 of 2004 placed changing the terms of aldermen on the ballot, so there is precedent for Council to approve an initiative to go on the ballot that changes City government. 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. Council Member Ray called for the vote. Council Member McCoy moved, seconded by Council Member Moss to APPROVE Ordinance 17 93 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1793 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, and LaBron voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member Dietz, McCleary, Ray, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voting NAY. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: Council Member McCoy recalled holding a forum recently where concerns regarding the cleanliness of the City were brought up. She requested Council to look at different wards together and plan a cleanup since it takes the community as a whole; not only City employees. She mentioned a civic organization or Chamber could start the initiate then ask the City to join. Council Member McCleary requested Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow to give an update on street overlays. Director Whitlow confirmed they bid and awarded the overlay for the year, surmising there were portions of South Road included. He related the Notice to Proceed was to start July 28th, the contractor has not made a presence yet, but has 120 days to complete it. He mentioned a contractor doing a condition assessment who scanned every street for a Pavement Condition Index score. He added that they also flag every pothole and now they have a Google Earth map showing color-coded conditions. He brought up using the Index to preserve streets before they have to be milled and overlayed since it is much cheaper. He noted when it comes to litter cleanup, if there is a community sponsored event, the County will provide dumpsters and the City would have trucks available. Council Member McCoy mentioned Keep Arkansas Beautiful will provide supplies and fall signup is going on now. A brief discussion ensued regarding different contractors affecting City streets and appearance where Director Whitlow shared that Kip Guthrie is the engineer contact regarding the highway construction. Council Member Ruple mentioned a city-wide cleanup scheduled through Parks and Rec. Council Member McCoy noted the NAACP does a cleanup on Graham Road the second Saturday of every month with one being this Saturday starting at 9 a.m. A brief discussion ensued regarding adopting streets for cleanups. Citizen Wendell Redmond of Oakridge Drive told how a contractor was digging on his street, but left holes and debris. He contacted Public Works, who did not know who it was at the time, but it ended up being Entergy. 6 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 7, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:07 P.M. Director Whitlow confirmed the City has a permitting process for excavating in the rights-of-way, but they did not know who it was at first because Entergy did not pull a permit. ANNOUNCEMENTS: ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:07 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 21, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:49 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on August 21, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Finance Director Laura Collie, Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow, HR Director Charlette Nelson, IT Director Brian Harvey, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, Officer Jacob Blackmon, Water Department Superintendent Jake Short, Gary Brockinton, Morgan Allen, Bonnie Skinner, Kyoko Provencio, Wyatt Elmore, Barry Jefferson, Reginald Ford, Larry Wilson, and Roger Sundermeier. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of August 7, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member McCleary moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of July 17, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Mimms to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JULY PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 24 5 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JULY Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 219,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 6,000.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JULY Topic 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 3100 3146 Homicide Reported 1 0 Theft Reported Homicide Cleared 1 0 Theft Cleared Rape/Sex Assault Reported 3 0 Vehicle Theft Reported Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 4 0 Vehicle Theft Cleared Robbery Reported 3 2 Felony Cases Reported Robbery Cleared 1 3 Felony Cases Closed 1 41 39 42 32 2025 63 26 11 2 139 132 2024 84 71 18 12 136 142 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 21, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:49 P.M. Felony Assaults Reported Felony Assaults Cleared Burglary Reported Burglary Cleared 13 12 17 12 Misd Cases Reported 13 Misd Cases Closed 13 262 270 225 227 7 6 CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JULY Assigned Calls 94 Demolition by City 0 Self-Initiated Calls 207 Demolition by Owner 1 Follow Up Inspections 571 Parking Violations 1 Complied after Notice 133 Garbage Cans Tagged 2 Three Day Notice 11 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 360 Structures Inspected 872 Citation Letters Mailed 34 Apartment Complexes Inspected 16 Citations Issued 12 Red Tags Issued Vehicles Tagged 17 Search Warrants Vehicles Towed 6 Grass Mowed Unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts Structures Rehabbed 0 ANI~ SERVICES REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JULY ADOPTION FEES $ SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS Paid by the City of Jacksonville Best Friends Animal Rescue Grant Paid for by Best Friends FINES CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL $ FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/ JULY General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund ~TER DEPARTMENT: ~STE~TER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT : SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE ( S) : Total Revenues $ 12,344,272 $ 1,648,618 $ 734,827 $ 277,042 $ 1,476,189 2 31 0 141 3,245.00 3,245.00 3,245.00 1,016.79 1,721.96 2,738.75 Tot al Exp enditures $ $ $ $ $ 15,961,725 1,015,493 1,291,775 268,659 1,646,384 7 9 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 21, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:49 P.M. GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1794 (#23-2025) AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE TO CONDUCT BUSINESS WITH CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WHO SERVE AS MEMBERS OF VARIOUS COMMISSIONS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ordinance 17 9 4 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED . Ordinance 1794. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Council Member McCoy mentioned individuals serving on boards and commissions without proper Council authorization, noting this ordinance cannot be retroactive. She brought up concerns regarding how it is written since she does not believe it addresses the real issue. She asked in advance that it be revised or removed from the agenda so it can be clarified. She is not opposed to citizens serving in good faith, but is opposed to approving an ordinance that lacks clarity, ignores decades of unauthorized service, and confuses the real legal question. City Attorney Friedman clarified it states the City will continue to do business with First Arkansas Bank & Trust and allow those executives to serve as commissioners. Council Member Kinman related that Larry Wilson has served on the Water Commission for 21 years and Roger Sunderrneier has been on the Advertising & Promotion Commission for approximately 5 years. She asked why is this corning up now? Council Member McCoy responded a recent discovery was printed in the Leader Newspaper about individuals serving illegally, and Municipal League confirmed. Mayor Elmore clarified that this carne from a Freedom of Information Act request by the Leader. Council Member Kinman listed different ways First Arkansas Bank has helped and benefitted the City in the past. Council Member McCoy stated this is to ensure we are in compliance and have it in place to protect the City. City Attorney Friedman confirmed Council can verify prior decisions made by these commissions. She explained in order for someone to challenge them, they would have to show the decision somehow benefitted one of these individuals personally or professionally. She pointed out there are no decisions she is aware of that would reflect that, so this is basically administrative. Council Member Ruple stated individuals recommended for appointments must get Council approval. He requested clarification of the difference. 3 r City Attorney Friedman replied these commissions do business, Council's approval. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 21, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:49 P.M. since they are executives at the bank where there needs to be an ordinance reiterating Mayor Elmore recalled a similar ordinance passed in 1981 allowing council members and mayor to do business with the City. He confirmed they consider these individuals public officials since they serve on public commissions. He concluded that this ordinance was written by the City Attorney and she would have to defend it, therefore, we are going with her recommendation. Council Member Kinman moved, seconded by Council Member Dietz to APPROVE Ordinance 17 94 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1794 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary and McCoy voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1794 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1794 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary and McCoy voting NAY. Council Member Moss reminded Council this is individual-specific and not a "catch all" ordinance. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1794 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary and McCoy voting NAY. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCleary and McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1794 {#23-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 218T DAY OF AUGUST, 2025. b. Update by Director of Economic Development Robert Birch Director Birch noted laws regarding the previous ordinance have gotten missed in a lot of cities and they do exactly what was done tonight; rectify the challenge and move forward. Regarding economic development, he has been working on a benchmark study using Placer.ai to get a clear picture of where we are as a city, how we stack up, and where we need to go. He confirmed this report will be posted online so citizens can read it. He related over the last year, the City has had 3.2 million visits with 1 million unique visitors and 60% of that traffic came from outside city limits. He told how two retailers are currently working on leases, noting citizens will be very happy with them. He shared in the last two weeks, there were two restaurants opened and another one is coming soon. He mentioned speaking to a coffee company three to five times a week to recruit them and find the right location. He 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 21, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:49 P.M. stated Jacksonville's household earnings are between $50,000-$75,000, which is good to attract retail, family service, and restaurants. He listed retail gaps needing filled are grocery, sit down restaurants, clothing, and family entertainment, but a lot of retailers are looking for second generation buildings they do not have to build from the ground up. He mentioned with Bargain Hunt, Discount Bins, and Dirt Cheap moving, we have three attractive spaces. He explained needing to support our anchors, which are Walmart, Lowes, and the Main Street area. He brought up benchmarks, then congratulated Police Chief Hibbs on his recruitment of officers, since it impacts the City's ability to attract businesses, and also the Fire Department and EMS. He told how the hospital is growing, we have urgent care clinics, and meet the number of pharmacies needed. He confirmed the school district is going in the right direction and we have buildings, students, and faculty to be proud of. We could use another branch to the library and public transportation, but we boast one of the best Parks & Rec Departments in the State since the benchmark is 8-12 parks and we have 14, plus a community center, Splash Zone, and more. He brought up apartment complexes and how he and Mayor Elmore met with a group looking to invest in some to make them more upscale in order to attract young Air Force members and families. He explained that we need another grocery store to push Kroger to be better and give our residents more choices. He will be focused on increasing Police staffing, recruiting a grocery store, growing apparel and discount retail options, and exploring public transportation solutions. He shared that there was an addition to Placer. ai that gives access to all contacts for franchises and corporate offices. He lastly brought up that two businesses are waiting for Gray Township to be released and the City is actively trying to find ways around it. He noted the reason it is important is not because we want alcohol everywhere, but it would give another revenue stream to businesses. He confirmed there are no more permits available for liquor stores in the County, but this would allow grocery stores to sell beer and wine, which would increase their margins. He urged officials and citizens to focus on infrastructure and roads and to clean up as much as possible because that is what will drive the City into the next era. Council Member Ruple mentioned liquor store permits are able to be moved from one storefront to another, but if a permitholder fails to keep it registered, it could either be "washed" or go up for bid. He suggested Council keep in mind that it is prohibited to sell beer and wine within 100 feet of schools, churches, or daycares, so Kum & Go and other businesses in proximity to those locations would not be able to. He agreed it would be very beneficial for sales to be allowed in Kroger and Walmart. Council Member Dietz brought up new homes being built and how home ownership increases tax revenue. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: Mayor Elmore related that a citizen has requested to make comment before Council. 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 21, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:49 P.M. Citizen Suzette Shambley of 5205 Rope Trail related that she been a resident of Jacksonville for 14 years and Arkansas for 22 years. She noted she is a veteran, a 28 year federal service worker, a registered and active voter, and a NAACP member. She shared her experience with· her Council representative that occurred directly after the August 7th City Council meeting. She stated: "the statement was not only disrespectful, but racially insensitive, dismissive, and deeply rooted in the imagery that's attached to historical racism, injustices, and generational struggles that my black community has endured." She requested a public apology. Council Member Kinman related she was that council person, but there are two sides to every story. She confirmed it was not meant to diminish Ms. Shambley in any way and she is sorry she felt that way. She reiterated that she was that person, she meant no harm by it, it got a little heated, and she was a little scared. ANNOUNCEMENTS: ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor ELmore adjourned the meeting at approximate1y 6:49 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, k-Treasurer 6 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:10 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on September 4, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mirmns answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Council Member McCleary arrived at approximately 6:02 p.m. Others present for the meeting were: Police Captain Ryan Wright, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Finance Director Laura Collie, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, IT Director Brian Harvey, and Morgan Allen. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of August 21, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of August 7, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: ORDINANCE 1795 (#24-2025) AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE AND ADOPT THE JACKSONVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT; DECLARING PURPOSES. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES AN EMERGENCY; AND FOR OF THE OTHER Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to place Ordinance 1795 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1795. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 17 95 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1795 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:10 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 1795 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1795 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1795 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1795 (#24-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 4TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2025. STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: ORDINANCE 1796 (#25-2025) AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (PARCEL 902 CHURCH ROAD); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MJlP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ordinance 17 96 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance 1796. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Council Member Kinman related that this is currently an empty lot . She inquired if there would be a duplex put on it. Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow concurred. When Council Member Ruple asked about the emergency clause, City Attorney Friedman confirmed there is not one. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 17 96 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1796 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:10 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1796 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1796 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1796 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1796 (#25-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 4TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2025. COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Ma yor Elmore announced that the Arkansas Municipal League Winter Conference registration is now open. He explained the dates are January 14-16, noting the council members who would like to go can contact his office. Council Member Dietz brought up how Code Enforcement has a lot to do and are short-staffed. He encouraged citizens to maintain their properties to help improve the City. Council Member McCoy mentioned it being almost time to review the annual budget. She recommended Council be thinking about what they want to discuss and allocate to ensure they make informed decisions when the time comes. She shared how she would like to be invited to the department budget meetings. Council Member Ruple thanked Parks & Rec Director Kevin House and his employees for another fantastic Festiville this past weekend. Council Member Ray praised the police officers present at the event that took quick action to help find a lost child. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor ELmore adjourned the meeting at approximate1y 6:10 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, -- 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:16 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on September 18, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor-Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT SEVEN (7) ABSENT THREE (3). Council Members Dietz, Ruple, and McCleary were absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Finance Director Laura Collie, Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Police Captain Ryan Wright, IT Director Brian Harvey, and Jim Moore. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of September 4, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of August 21, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/AUGUST PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 23 6 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/AUGUST Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 430,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 1,070,000.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/AUGUST Topic 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 2856 3306 Homicide Reported 0 0 Theft Reported Homicide Cleared 0 0 Theft Cleared Rape/Sex Assault Reported 6 3 Vehicle Theft Reported Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 3 2 Vehicle Theft Cleared Robbery Reported 3 0 Felony Cases Reported Robbery Cleared 1 1 Felony Cases Closed Felony Assaults Reported 20 12 Misd Cases Reported Felony Assaults Cleared 18 8 Misd Cases Closed 1 40 41 42 20 2025 75 37 10 5 160 141 253 188 2024 79 70 14 8 146 129 317 225 Burglary Reported Burglary Cleared 16 4 16 8 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:16 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/AUGUST Assigned Calls 51 Demolition by City 0 Self-Initiated Calls 63 Demolition by Owner 1 Follow Up Inspections 582 Parking Violations 6 Complied after Notice 198 Garbage Cans Tagged 1 Three Day Notice 0 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 139 Structures Inspected 0 Citation Letters Mailed 21 Apartment Complexes Inspected 2 Citations Issued 1 Red Tags Issued 0 Vehicles Tagged 16 Search Warrants 1 Vehicles Towed 1 Grass Mowed 55 Unsafe Structures Tagged Structures Condemned Structures Rehabbed 0 Signs Removed 0 Shopping Carts 1 FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/AUGUST General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : Total Revenues $ 14,802,326 $ 3,238,061 $ 1,288,816 $ 285,531 $ 1,694,752 GENERAL: PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 1797 (#26-2025) Total $ $ $ $ $ Expenditures 17,803,073 1,187,738 1,481,122 300,085 1,865,300 1 2 AN ORDINANCE CONDEMNING STRUCTURES AND REAL PROPERTY AT THE LOCATION NOTED BELOW IN JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, FOR STRUCTURAL DEFECTS, DEFICIENCIES, AND PUBLIC HAZARD CONDITIONS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Mayor Elmore stated the City has been speaking with Jacksonville Housing Authority, who has been working very hard with Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to get vouchers approved for the tenants to have a place to go. He recalled them being approved last week, but they have been waiting for them to "be in hand," noting they were backdated to September pt. He announced that there will be a meeting for the residents of Willow Bend Apartments (300 Marshall Road) with the Housing Authority Monday afternoon at the Community Center. He mentioned the list of tenants being provided to the HUD office in Kansas City, so they have been getting in contact with them regarding the 2 r I CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:16 P.M. meeting. He confirmed the Housing Authority cannot direct the tenants to a certain property, but can provide a list of twenty pre-approved ones. He brought up if a resident finds their own place, they can go through the process to seek approval after a HUD inspection. He related that the vouchers will cover all living expenses, but does not cover the actual moving expenses. He noted HUD is going through their process of providing the moving expenses, but it is still ongoing and may take a while. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to place Ordinance 1797 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1797. Council Member McCoy brought up that the ordinance mentions thirty days. She asked what happens to tenants who cannot afford to move within that time. Mayor Elmore was unsure, but noted there are some agencies that could help. He confirmed the City is willing to help figure out what it can do to assist. Mayor E1more opened the public hearing at approx~ately 6:10 p.m. Current resident of Willow Bend Zaykia Engram told how the complex's trash has not been picked up in almost two weeks and it is everywhere. She stated the office phones do not work to allow tenants to contact personnel with issues while the living conditions are continually declining. She mentioned living amongst unwanted guests and there is nothing the tenants can do about it. She confirmed the owners are not doing anything to improve the conditions and the manager told tenants the City cut their trash contracts off. Mayor Elmore clarified that is untrue since they are on a dumpster service that is not provided by the City, but is with a private business. Mayor Elmore closed the public hearing at approximately 6:13 p.m. Another Willow Bend resident in the audience inquired about assistance with moving. Mayor Elmore related that the vouchers are available and suggested she contact the Housing Authority or come to the upcoming meeting. He added that she can also speak with CDBG Director Michelle Spencer. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 17 97 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1797 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED . Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ordinance 17 97 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES 1797 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION 3 Kinman to APPROVE and place Ordinance Member McCoy, Ray, CARRIED. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 18, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:16 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1797 in its entirety ROLL CALL: Council Member McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1797 (#26-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 18TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2025. Mayor Elmore thanked City Council, noting this is a long time coming on something that has been public blight for years. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS : ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:16 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, k-Treasurer 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, session on October 2, 2025 at their regular delivered the invocation and led a standing Allegiance." Arkansas met for a regular meeting place. Mayor Elmore audience in the "Pledge of ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE ( 9) ABSENT ONE ( 1) . Council Member Ray was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Finance Director Laura Collie, HR Director Charlette Nelson, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, and Morgan Allen. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of September 18, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of September 4, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: ORDINANCE 1798 (#27-2025) AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING CITY OF JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL PROPERTY OWNERS' MULTIPURPOSE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. (GREENHILL ESTATES); DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND , FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Mayor Elmore opened the public hearing at approximately 6:02 p.m. With no one requesting to speak, Mayor Elmore closed the public hearing at approximately 6:03 p.m. Council Member LaBron moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to place Ordinance 1798 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1798. 1 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. City Attorney Friedman asked what improvements are the developer proposing to make. Developer Jeff Aclin with Arkansas Homes and Rentals replied that this is an improvement district to allow them to recoup some funds for the development of the subdivision. City Attorney Friedman read from the ordinance, stating it "is to provide for the construction of waterworks, sewers, treatment facilities." She requested clarification if those have already been completed. Mr. Aclin replied yes. City Attorney Friedman explained that, typically, this is done on the front end before any of those utilities are in place and are done for improvements. She noted there is case law showing the district has to show that there was an increase in value to the homes; that there is some actual improvements being done. She related that there are other avenues to recoup the developer's financial interests under a different statute, but she is unsure, given t he facts here, that an improvement district is necessarily the best option, considering there are not going to be any improvements. She mentioned it could potentially open the City up for some liability. Mr. Aclin understands, but would have to consult with his attorney. City Attorney Friedman brought up that some parcels have been sold since the petition was filed. Mr. Aclin confirmed that is correct and they were notified about the improvement district. City Attorney Friedman recommended tabling the ordinance until the developer's attorney can be present for discussion. She reiterated that her concern is that there are not any proposed improvements. Mr. Aclin stated the improvements were the subdivision itself, noting they started this process six to seven months ago and it has taken a long time to get here. When City Attorney Friedman inquired about the utilities, he surmised they were finalized around eight to nine months ago; around the same time this process started. City Attorney Friedman asked when the final plat was approved by City Council. Director of Engineering and Public Works Adam Whitlow confirmed the final plat and bill of assurance was recorded with the County on September 17th, 2024, so it was approved prior to that. Council Member Moss brought up that this ordinance is to retroactively approve something already done. 2 City Attorney Friedman petitioner's intent was, clarify that. concurred, but the CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. saying way the she believes ordinance is that is written what does the not Council Member Moss asked if they pass this for something done retroactively, what about other citizens who would like things done retroactively; would they have the same options and right? City Attorney Friedman stated that is part of her concern. City Clerk Davitt noted this would be setting a precedent. City Attorney Friedman explained that if they had a benefit study that showed significant improvements from what is currently there, then this is justifiable, but it is difficult for her to allow Council to vote on this as is. When Council Member Kinman brought up the more than bought property there, Mr. Aclin affirmed they were improvement district when they closed on the property. five people who notified about has the City Attorney Friedman mentioned providing certified copies of the notice sent to the new owners. She requested clarification of who would be paying for the improvement district. Mr. Aclin replied that it gets assessed on the property owners' taxes. City Attorney Friedman summarized her concerns, listing verifying that current ownership has been notified, identify scope of improvements, and a benefit study showing there are significant improvements. She noted, without those three things, we run the risk of an unlawful retroactive tax. Mr. Aclin confirmed the ordinance can be tabled and he will speak to his attorney to get answers to those questions. When Council Member McCoy inquired, he replied that the owner of the properties would be responsible for the tax, not the tenants. City Clerk Davitt pointed out that there is no sunset clause, so if funds are recouped, they will continue to collect the tax. Mr. Aclin explained that the money coming from the improvement district would come nowhere near recouping all of their costs, surmising it would take hundreds of years. He related that the development costs were over $1 million. When Council Member Ruple inquired, he replied that he believes the tax would be $650 per year for each property owner and there are 64 lots total. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to TABLE Ordinance 1798 (#27-2025). MOTION CARRIED. 3 APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 2, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:14 P.M. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Jacksonville Cleanup Day Mayor Elmore announced that this Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m . the Parks and Recreation Department is hosting Cleanup Day. He explained they will be meeting and starting out of Johnson Park. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meetinq at approximately 6:14 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, Treasurer 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on October 16, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Finance Director Laura Collie, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, and Communications Director Emily Sundermeier. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of October 2, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of September 18, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/SEPTEMBER PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License 10 2 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/SEPTEMBER Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 6,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 244,000.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/SEPTEMBER Topic 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 34 7 4 3233 Homicide Reported 1 2 Theft Reported Homicide Cleared 1 2 Theft Cleared Rape/Sex Assault Reported 2 4 Vehicle Theft Reported Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 1 1 Vehicle Theft Cleared Robbery Reported 2 2 Felony Cases Reported Robbery Cleared 2 0 Felony Cases Closed Felony Assaults Reported 17 11 Misd Case~ Reported Felony Assaults Cleared 12 8 Misd Cases Closed Burglary Reported 15 23 Burglary Cleared 7 11 1 40 46 56 23 2025 58 16 4 2 101 116 250 218 2024 54 51 9 6 121 109 287 216 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/SEPTEMBER Assigned Calls 73 Demolition by City 0 Self-Initiated Calls 154 Demolition by Owner 1 Follow Up Inspections 559 Parking Violations 3 Complied after Notice 206 Garbage Cans Tagged 0 Three Day Notice 6 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 227 Structures Inspected 0 Citation Letters Mailed 18 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0 Citations Issued 0 Red Tags Issued 0 Vehicles Tagged 22 Search Warrants 0 Vehicles Towed 3 Grass Mowed 41 Unsafe Structures Tagged Structures Condemned Structures Rehabbed 0 Signs Removed 1 Shopping Carts 0 FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/SEPTEMBER General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: Total Revenues $ 17,322,467 $ 3,460,085 $ 1,483,466 $ 311,088 $ 1,882,571 STREET DEPARTMENT: ORDINANCE 1799 (#28-2025) Total $ $ $ $ $ Expenditures 19,780,654 1,316,228 1,674,952 327,572 2,109,658 6 2 AN ORDINANCE WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF A MEDIUM DUTY COMMERCIAL TRUCK FOR THE JACKSONVILLE STREET DEPARTMENT; FOR APPROPRIATE IMPLEMENTATION AND ACCESS FOR THE JACKSONVILLE STREET DEPARTMENT AND CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REPRESENTATIVES ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, PURPOSES. FOR OTHER Council Member Ordinance 17 9 9 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance 1799. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow stated this is from Red River Pre-Owned here in town. He explained it is a 2023 model with 4, 000 miles, confirming it was the cheapest and will be used to pull a hydro excavator trailer. He noted the current truck is bigger and will have a dump bed put on to replace a dump truck they aged out. He mentioned it is allocated for in the budget, then told how since it is a used truck, they do not have a Sourcewell price, but they compared prices of trucks throughout the State and Memphis. He related the emergency is due to the dealership holding the truck and also the department being down a dump truck. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. Council Member Kinman moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE Ordinance 1799 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1799 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1799 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1799 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1799 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1799 (#28-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 16TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2025. SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE (S) : GENERAL: a. PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 1800 (#29-2025) AN ORDINANCE CREATING AND CERTIFYING TAX LIENS AGAINST REAL PROPERTIES AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS WITHIN THE CITY FOR BALANCES DUE FROM SERVICES RENDERED BY AND/OR ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Mayor Elmore opened the public hearing at approx~ately 6:06p.m. Code Enforcement Supervisor Marissa Barger stated the properties listed more than once are from the original cases being closed, then new ones opened when they were not maintained. She explained the larger amounts are from demolishing condemned homes, and the smaller are for grass abatements. She provided Council with an updated list since Code received payments for some. She related that the first mow of the season is $175, then $25 is added each time after. She confirmed property over an acre has $75 added per acre over one. She told how vacant properties get mailed a letter stating the lawn will be maintained by the City for the entire mowing season, typically from March to October. She mentioned if there is a different owner mailing address, they mail a letter to the owner, plus to the property address. She brought up that they get a ten day notice to abate the lawn or contact Code with a reasonable plan, but after that, the lawn will be mowed the following Thursday. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. She stated when properties with structures are vacant for a continuous six months or more, they have to be registered through Code Enforcement and a fee paid. She noted the registration fee for a vacant home is $100 per year, surmising for a business it is $200 per year. Citizen Richelle Brittain of 321 Lakeside Drive recalled owning a house at 3121 North First Street. She inquired about copies of the ordinances on the agenda. After copies were provided and reviewed, no other comments were received. Mayor Elmore closed the public hearing at approximately 6:18p.m. Council Member Ordinance 1800 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance 1800. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1800 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1800 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1800 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1800 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1800 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1800 (#29-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 16~ DAY OF OCTOBER, 2025. b. PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 1801 (#30-2025) AN ORDINANCE CONDEMNING STRUCTURES AND REAL PROPERTY AT THE LOCATIONS NOTED BELOW IN JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, FOR STRUCTURAL DEFECTS, DEFICIENCIES, AND PUBLIC HAZARD CONDITIONS ; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Mayor Elmore opened the public hearing at approximately 6:20 p.m. Officer Barger stated 2409/2411 Memorial Drive is a duplex that has been vacant and unregistered, with the City maintaining the lawn for at least two and a half years. She noted the owners live in West Virginia and were in contact with Code last year, but have not responded to notices since. She confirmed the building is deteriorating, unsecure, windows broken, doors kicked in, facia and soffit damaged, rotting, or missing, and roof damaged. 4 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. She next spoke about 107 Wilshire Cove, stating this property was a site of a house fire that had fatalities on January 11~. She related Code had contact lost contact and received no is burnt, smells horrible, and is a hazard to the with a respondent for the owner, but has since response or movement. She explained the house there is still debris and trash, is unsecure, community. Council Member Ruple believes the only fire survivor was not related to the owner. He had communication with him at one point, but also lost contact. He confirmed if approved, it would be very appreciated by the community. Officer Barger added that the City has been maintaining the lawn as well. Mayor E~ore closed the public hearing at approx~ately 6:23 p.m. Council Member Ordinance 1801 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance 1801. Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Officer Barger related she would check the budget, get quotes or bids for demolition, and then move forward. She surmised it being 30-90 days before demolition. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 1801 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1801 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE Ordinance 18 01 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1801 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1801 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE . MOTION CARRIED. ORDINANCE 1801 (#30-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 16TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2025 . 5 c. ORDINANCE 1802 (#31-2025) CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. AN ORDINANCE TO SET ADDITIONAL MILLAGE TAX RATES TO BE ESTABLISHED IN 2026 FOR THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ordinance 1802 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED . Ordinance 1802. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Mayor Elmore stated this is setting the millage rate the City has to do every year. He confirmed there is no increase, but is the exact same 3 mills it has been, and has to be filed by the end of this month. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1802 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1802 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1802 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1802 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1802 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, AYE. MOTION CARRIED. seconded by Council Member LaBron that the and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted ORDINANCE 1802 (#31-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 16TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2025. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Trunk or Treat Mayor Elmore announced Trunk or Treat will be at Dupree Park on Halloween night. He invited Council and others to take part. 6 r Senior Center Fundraiser CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 16, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:31 P.M. Mayor Elmore related that Tuesday the Senior Center is having their annual beans and cornbread fundraiser. He stated Council Member Twitty has tickets for purchase. Cleanup Day Council Member Ruple thanked Parks and Recreation Department for organizing the recent Cleanup Day. He showed gratitude for community members, NAACP, and others who stepped up and helped that day. High School Homecoming Council Member Mimms told how October 24th is the high school's Homecoming and there will be a home football game on October 31st. Senior Center Lowe's Grant Mayor Elmore brought up that the Senior Center applied for and received a grant through Lowe's. He explained Lowe's employees from all around came to do work there. He recommended people stop by to see the inside and outside improvements. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:31 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, a vitt -Treasurer ~~~//~~ ...... ===------~MORE 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on November 6, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance.n ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member McCleary was absent. for the meeting were: Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Laura Collie, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, CDBG Spencer, Assistant Fire Chief Dewan Laws, Battalion Chief Support Shawn Sutterfield, Officer Devin Junior, and Jim Others present Finance Director Director. Michelle Drew Cargile, IT Moore. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of October 16, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of October 2, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. Building Permits Business License Jobs Added WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: 12 8 24 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR PLANNING COMMISSION: a. FINAL PLAT Aubethany Estates Phase I 32 56 42 21 Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow stated this subdivision is located on Military Road, it will have two phases, and all infrastructure is in. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to accept the final plat of Aubethany Estates Phase I. MOTION CARRIED. 1 b. FINAL PLAT Graham Woods Phase 4B CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. Director Whitlow explained the size of the houses will be comparable to the other Graham Woods phases; usually being a small starter home. Counci1 Member Kinman moved, seconded by Counci1 Member Dietz to accept the fina1 p1at of Graham Woods Phase 4B. MOTION CARRIED. COMMITTEE(S): GENERAL: DISCUSSION 2026 Budqet Mayor Elmore related that Council received the proposed 2026 budget last Friday via email. When Council Member McCoy and Ruple inquired, he replied that the raise will be 3% for full-time employees' cost of living adjustment; not a merit. Council Member McCoy asked how many employees are currently not at the midpoint for their salary. Human Resources Director Charlette Nelson noted she would have to review the Arkansas Municipal League salary survey, which changes each year. When City Clerk Davitt pointed out that information is usually included on the inhouse salary roster, Director Nelson concurred and agreed to send it out. Counci1 Member Kinman moved, seconded by Counci1 Member Moss to ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION at approximate1y 6:06 p.m. reqardinq personneL MOTION CARRIED. Counci1 Member Ray moved, seconded by Counci1 Member LaBron to RECONVENE FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION at approximate1y 6:49 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Mayor Elmore announced Council entered into executive session to discuss several personnel matters, but no decisions or actionable items were made, so there is nothing to report at this time. He confirmed no action will be taken on the budget tonight, but it will be voted on at the next meeting. City Clerk Davitt mentioned just receiving a copy of the salary roster with the maximum salary column, but it did not include the midpoint column. She requested it be resent with that column present. Mayor Elmore instructed Director Nelson to disregard the request, since the roster will be revamped. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Christmas Parade Mayor Elmore announced the Christmas Parade will be held on December 6th. 2 Birthday CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 6, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:00 P.M. Mayor Elmore shared that today is Council Member McCoy's birthday. Willow Bend Update Mayor Elmore mentioned, as of tomorrow, the last resident should be out. He confirmed they all have vouchers, but CDBG Director Spencer is assisting with shelter and deposits. He noted some still have belongings there, but they hope to be able to move soon. He stated the water was disconnected from the complex recently. Council Member McCoy thanked Director Spencer for her help in working with Housing Authority to get the citizens assistance. Council Member Kinman brought up that the same thing is happening in North Little Rock with Shorter College Gardens. Mayor Elmore related it is the same company, Millennia, who owns Willow Bend. Council Member Ruple inquired if barricading the area is possible to help reduce car and foot traffic until the buildings are demolished. Mayor Elmore replied they cannot barricade it, since it would limit first responders' access in case of an emergency. He affirmed the police department has stepped up tremendously with extra patrol and arrested 11 people in one day that were not supposed to be there. Police Chief Brett Hibbs added that fire is very likely with the cold temperatures coming up with the homeless. He confirmed they patrol it multiple times a day, so officers need to be able to drive through. He told how they tried to get the owners to board the apartments up, but almost every one is wide open. Fire Chief Alan Laughy noted any barricade his department can move is just as easy for anyone else to, and they will. He gave an example of people moving the barricades from the one-lane bridge and driving over all of the time. Chief Hibbs stated that Code Enforcement tagged every door, and if anyone is found, they would be trespassing. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:00p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, Yfu: ELMORE 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:09 P.M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on November 20, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0). Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow, Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Director of Economic Development Robert Birch, IT Director Brian Harvey, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Deputy Director of Network Operations Shawn Sutterfield, Officer Tamarr Vickers, Reginald Ford, and Morgan Allen. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of November 6, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of October 16, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Kinman to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/OCTOBER Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 60,000.00 Savings total for the month: $ 772,000.00 POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/OCTOBER To:eic 2025 2024 2025 2024 Total Complaint Calls 3757 3326 Homicide Reported 0 0 Theft Reported 48 67 Homicide Cleared 0 0 Theft Cleared 19 51 Rape/Sex Assault Reported 1 3 Vehicle Theft Reported 5 13 Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 0 0 Vehicle Theft Cleared 4 6 Robbery Reported 0 0 Felony Cases Reported 91 123 Robbery Cleared 0 0 Felony Cases Closed 97 115 Felony Assaults Reported 9 20 Misd Cases Reported 212 309 Felony Assaults Cleared 5 11 Misd Cases Closed 163 242 Burglary Reported 12 19 Burglary Cleared 6 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:09 P.M. CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/OCTOBER Assigned Calls 54 Demolition by City 0 Self-Initiated Calls 185 Demolition by Owner 0 Follow Up Inspections 418 Parking Violations 0 Complied after Notice 281 Garbage Cans Tagged 0 Three Day Notice 0 Basketball Goals 0 Seven Day Letter 310 Structures Inspected 0 Citation Letters Mailed 47 Apartment Complexes Inspected 4 Citations Issued 6 Red Tags Issued 2 Vehicles Tagged 27 Search Warrants 0 Vehicles Towed 2 Grass Mowed 73 Unsafe Structures Tagged Structures Condemned Structures Rehabbed 0 Signs Removed 2 Shopping Carts 0 FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/OCTOBER General Fund Street Fund Sanitation Services Fund AG&F Shooting Sports Complex EMS Fund WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION: Total Revenues $ 19,416,521 $ 3,728,714 $ 1,674,517 $ 322,172 $ 2,060,885 PLANNING COMMISSION: ORDINANCE 1804 (#33-2025) Total $ $ $ $ $ Expenditures 22,850,917 1,944,570 1,936,390 367,146 2,374,499 7 0 AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE , ARKANSAS (2013 AND 2019 HAMILTON STREET); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MllP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS ; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES . Council Member Ordinance 1804 McCleary, McCoy, MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance 1804. Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to place on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1804 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1804 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:09 P.M. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1804 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1804 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Twitty moved, seconded ADOPT Ordinance 1804 in its entirety. McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, MOTION CARRIED. by Council Member Kinman to APPROVE AND ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. ORDINANCE 1804 (#33-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025. COMMITTEE(S): GENERAL: a. Concern from citizen Jana McWilliams Citizen Jana McWilliams of 1405 North Jeff Davis Street read a statement regarding increasing crime in her neighborhood and a neighbor operating a car repair and racing operation. She explained they have multiple old vehicles in the yard that they work on and race at all hours on their residential street. She told how the property values are being harmed and their sense of safety has disappeared. She listed other activities impacting their health and safety including harmful emissions, the disregard for traffic laws, and noise pollution. She recalled there being police involvement, but was unaware of any action taken. She respectfully urged the City to investigate this ongoing situation since they need meaningful enforcement and intervention. She requested the City to post a clear speed limit sign, and most importantly, install a stop sign at the corner of Harvey and North Jeff Davis Street. Mayor Elmore apologized and related that they had a Police Lieutenant make contact with the resident making him aware of the complaints and that it is unlawful. He explained the officers have to catch them in the act, but they have been asked to increase patrol in that area. He recommended Mrs. McWilliams contact him or Chief Hibbs if these issues continue. b. DISCUSSION Code Enforcement Liens Council Member LaBron pointed out Council received a list of Code Enforcement liens broken down by ward. He asked how Council could assist in recouping some of it, because $84,000 is a lot for grass and some demolitions. Code Enforcement Supervisor Marissa Barger told how since October's lien hearing, they have received approximately 20 payments, but was unaware of the dollar amount. She detailed that each year they advertise requesting properly licensed companies interested to apply, then select four to mow from April to October. She noted the City pays $75 per acre, but bills the owners a $100 administrative fee, plus that $75 abatement fee, and extra cut fees if applicable. She mentioned the October list was for April to August, so September and October will be handled next meeting. She stated they give owners thirty days to pay, then another 30 days before they place a lien. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:09 P.M. Council Member Ruple related that it costs him $30 for a title company to file a lien, then another $30 to get it removed. He asked if the owners are responsible for these fees. City Attorney Friedman confirmed it comes out of her budget, since she is charged per page when filing. Supervisor Barger. surmised it may be included in the administrative fee. A brief discussion ensued regarding the process of receiving lien payments. Supervisor Barger noted if the property sells after a proper title search, the lien will be collected upon sale, otherwise, the lien stays with that property and new owner. c. ORDINANCE 1803 (#32-2025) AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING A FISCAL BUDGET FOR 2026; MAKING APPROPRIATIONS AND AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURES FOR OPERATION OF VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS OF CITY GOVERNMENT; FOR THE PURCHASE OF ~TERIALS, SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES COVERING GENERAL FUND OPERATIONS, STREET FUND, EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FUND, SHOOTING RANGE FUND, AND SANITATION FUND; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1803 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member Kinman voting NAY. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1803. Council Member McCoy brought up that the salary roster received did not identify the data source. She asked what system, payroll records, or salary study was referenced to compile the information provided to Council. Human Resources Director Charlette Nelson replied that they used the Municipal League salary survey from 2023. Council Member McCoy noted some of the figures do not match 2023. She asked why are there discrepancies if they used it verbatim from 2023. Mayor Elmore related they do not use the salary study in determining salaries because it is set at the time of hire. He explained they have not used the mid column, which has caused the most confusion, and it is not a tool used when looking at salaries. He recalled it has been a reference that has been there in the past, but it has not always been there. He stated it was adopted on the spreadsheet Director Nelson uses to keep track of things, but that sheet is not an "official document." Director Nelson concurred. 4 r CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:09 P.M. Mayor Elmore clarified it is a working document and is not what it is based on. He reiterated that the mid column is not a factor used and the letter he submitted to City Council explained it in the first part. Council Member McCoy mentioned the document Council received says 2024 survey lookup midpoint. She asked before the roster was distributed to Council, who verified it for accuracy, because Director Nelson related it was 2023, but it says 2024. Director Nelson told how herself, Mayor Elmore, and Finance Director Laura Collie went over all current salaries and did not use the salary survey. Council Member McCoy noted Council was told the salary survey was used, but it was not. Director Nelson reiterated the salary survey was not used. Council Member McCoy inquired to Director Nelson if there is a document that has a listing of the salary she used and provide it to Council. She brought up that 2023 was mentioned then asked if she needs to go back and look at 2023. Director Nelson concurred. Mayor Elmore noted the midpoint original spreadsheet was asked requested. column was for, but not in it was the document added because when it the was Council Member McCoy understood, but pointed out when something is provided, they have to be able to cross-reference and factcheck in order to process and make an informed decision about a budget. Mayor Elmore related that the current and proposed salaries are the two columns that matter. Council Member McCoy shared that she wants to see where they got their midpoint information so she can check it. Mayor Elmore reiterated that was not a factor in determining salaries. Council Member McCoy confirmed she cannot pass a budget with not having received something factual. When Council Member McCoy asked where longevity pay is in the budget, Mayor Elmore replied it is not a budgeted item, and has never been, because it is determined if there are residual funds from the year. Director Collie stated the funds come out of the General, Street, EMS, Sanitation, and Shooting Range funds; just like payroll. 5 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7 :09 P.M. Council Member McCoy asked what the total amount is being paid out and to who. Director Collie was unsure of why she needed the list because it is not a budgeted item or anything Council votes for. Council Member McCoy explained that according to Municipal League, who she reached out to, they should have an ordinance regarding it since the allocation ·of funds is Council's responsibility. Director Collie shared her understanding that it is an administrative decision by the Mayor, who has the authority to do so in his job duties. She recommended she ask him that information. Council Member McCoy read part of an email received from Arkansas Municipal League's Legal & Inquiry Council Caleb Alexander-McKinzie: "J hope you are well. Arkansas law does not have any specific requirements for a city to establish a longevity pay policy for municipal employees. The city may do so if the city wishes to do so-that is a matter of local policy for the city to determine-and I would recommend doing so via ordinance, but there is not law that requires an ordinance. As with all expenditures of public funds, the city council must first appropriate the funds so that they may be paid out. If the city is paying the longevity pay out in lump sums, similar to a bonus, the payment should be process as payroll-again, similar to a bonus." She affirmed that Council needs to know those funds are being dispersed and it requires transparency. She requested details on who all receives it and how much is paid out. Director Collie related that Council Member McCoy would have to get that information from the Mayor. Mayor Elmore clarified that HR has the list. Director Nelson shared that regular full-time employees having 3-5 years of continuous service get $700, 6-10 is $800, 11-15 is $900, and 16+ is $1000. She told how she has been with the City for 17 years and they have been giving out longevity all 17; probably before she started working here also, at the mayor's discretion. She noted that part-time employees receive half of that amount and SPAsonAl P.mployees and elected officials do not receive it. She explained that the money is given out on a separate check and is taxed. She confirmed it is not a policy because it is not a budgeted item, since it is not guaranteed every year. Council Member Kinman moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION regarding an employee issue at approximately 6:38 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member McCleary moved, seconded by Council Member McCoy to RECONVENE FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION at approximately 7:05 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. 6 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 6:00 P.M. -7:09 P.M. Mayor Elmore stated there were no actionable items; just discussion only. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1803 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1803 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE Ordinance 1803 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1803 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1803 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY. ORDINANCE 1803 (#32-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 20TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025. I Council Member Twitty thanked Director Collie, her department, Director Nelson, and Mayor Elmore for their hard work on the budget. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Christmas Parade Mayor Elmore announced that the Christmas Parade will be Saturday, December 6th. He encouraged Council and others to participate. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meetinq at approximately 7:09p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, 7 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P .M. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING -CITY HALL -#1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular session on December 4, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Mayor Elmore delivered the invocation and led a standing audience in the "Pledge of Allegiance." ROLL CALL : City Council Members: Ki nma n , a nd Mimms answered ROLL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE arrived at approximately 6:02 p.m. Dietz, Ruple, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, CALL . Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL ( 9) ABSENT ONE ( 1) . Council Member McCleary Council Member Ray was absent. Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Finance Director Laura Collie, HR Director Charlette Nelson, Director of Economic Development Robert Birch, CDBG Director Michelle Spencer, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, Code Enforcement Supervisor Marissa Barger, Deputy Director of Network Operations Shawn Sutterfield, and Rick Kron. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES : Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of November 20, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member LaBron moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of November 6, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/NOVEMBER PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits Business License Jobs Added WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT : FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: 15 3 3 Building Electrical Plumbing HVACR 42 48 24 16 PARKS & RECREATION: RECOGNITION 2025 Community Service Award Recipient Parks & Rec Director Kevin House recalled the Autism Awareness Tournament winning a regional award in 2024, but most recently, it won a national one. Cindy Roach with Pathfinder, Inc. told how the award is about being a part of a community, noting how much the tournament does for their clients who get to play, be included, and have fun. She shared her appreciation, not only because it is a fundraiser, but because it is the highlight of their year. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. Parks & Rec Athletics Manager Joe Stoute related that this tournament means a lot to our community, explaining that building a relationship with Pathfinder and peopl e nationally who are fully invested in it is great. He poin'ted out that as much as they enjoy it, the bat companies and pros look forward to it every year. He shared his appreciation to Parks & Rec, USSSA, and everyone involved. Council Member Twitty thanked Manager Stoute, noting the City is very fortunate to have him. Director House concurred, noting this award is a testament to him. Manager Stoute stated this will be the third year coming up to do it like they have, recalling that the start of it was very stressful since it takes a lot of resources. He confirmed they could not do it without the sponsors, the City, and everyone else, so he appreciates all involved. Mayor Elmore told how the tournament is phenomenal and watching the Pathfinder clients' joy was touching. Director House mentioned the Pathfinder game is scheduled for February 28th at 2:00 p.m. When Ms. Roach offered Council a tour of the Stoute mentioned that is what changed his tournament. PLANNING COMMISSION: COMMITTEE ( S) : GENERAL: a. PRESENTATION I-57 Construction Update Pathfinder facility, perspective on the Manger entire Kip Guthrie introduced himself and Brock Childress from BGE, Inc., noting they represent Jacksonville's tax dollars through the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDoT). He explained that ARDoT has made a $145 million commitment to the City within a two mile area by widening the interstate from two lanes to three. He stated the wider the interstate footprint, the more it impacts the City, John Harden Drive, T.P. White Drive, and businesses, so part of their commitment is to do as much as they can, keeping it as tight as they can. He detailed the process of shifting the four 11' minimum lanes and communicating the traffic shifts through ARDoT' s Public Information Office, Garver Engineer's Publication Team, and a direct email from ARDoT, if signed up for. He acknowledged that travelers do not like the narrow lanes and shoulders, but it is less impactful to the local businesses. He pointed out it is a construction zone requiring slower, safer speeds from mile marker 9 to 11, noting they have an on call wrecker service who has a contractual obligation to arrive within 15 minutes of accidents to keep traffic moving. 2 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. He recalled the City being mostly impacted during spring break of 2023 when John Harden and T. P. White Drive went to one-way traffic indefinitely, but the public received communication well in advance. He brought up that there will be all new curb and gutter, nearby businesses affected are getting new driveways, and the contractors, Weaver-Bailey, are communicating their work and working around business' schedules to lower the impact. He gave examples of concerns received, confirming they take all seriously, but sometimes it is part of a bigger picture where there are gives and takes. He related that ARDoT is thankful for those who supported Act 699, since it helped identify underground utilities earlier for them to relocate more quickly. He gave thanks to Mayor Elmore, Chief Hibbs, Chief Laughy, and USAF Colonel Smith for their assistance when it comes to road closures, detailing how it allowed them to get certain work done ahead of schedule. He shared that the new Gregory Street bridge is complete and connects from North First Street to the realigned North Bailey Boulevard, although they are waiting for better weather to pour more asphalt. He confirmed work will continue on I-57 northbound, the bridge has started construction, and there is a Texas contractor coming to start the Texas U-turn. He explained they committed to building four bridges, three of which are complete, and come late spring or summer, all side roads will get one final asphalt lift and the intersection of Vandenburg, North First, and T. P. White will get torn out, then put back in. He noted the initial construction completion date was fall 2027, but the current schedule is nine months ahead; being Christmas of 2026. He provided an ARDoT quarterly publication showing the construction status. He related that citizens can go to Connecting Arkansas Program or to ar.gov to use the Ask ARDoT portal for inquiries. When Council Member Moss inquired, he replied that the contr~ctor does not have to finish until September of 2027, but if finished early, there is an incentive, and if they finish late, there is a financial penalty. b. ORDINANCE 1805 (#34-2025) AN ORDINANCE CREATING AND CERTIFYING TAX LIENS AGAINST REAL PROPERTIES AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS WITHIN THE CITY FOR BALANCES DUE FROM SERVICES RENDERED BY AND/OR ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Council Member McCleary moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance 1805 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1805. When Council Member Moss mentioned the dollar amount being different than what is in the agenda, Mayor Elmore confirmed there were three payments made to Code Enforcement for 602 Ray Road for $200.00, 408 Smart Street for $200.00, and 114 Wilson Street for $200.00. 3 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 4, 2025 6:00 P.M. -6:38 P.M. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1805 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1805 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1805 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance 1805 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council ADOPT Ordinance 1805 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: McCleary, McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, CARRIED. Member LaBron to APPROVE AND Council Member Dietz, Ruple, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION ORDINANCE 1805 (#34-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 4TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2025. APPOINTMENTS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NEW BUSINESS: ANNOUNCEMENTS: Christmas Parade Mayor Elmore reminded that the Christmas Parade is Saturday at 3:00 p.m. and the tree lighting is at 5:30 p.m. Bellringing Challenge Mayor Elmore announced that tomorrow from 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. is the Mayoral Bellringing Challenge for the Salvation Army taking place at Walmart. ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:38 p.m. MOTION CARRIED. Respectfully, ~~---~ELMORE 4