The Mansfield City Council met in regular session on Thursday evening, August 15 at 6 p.m. All members of the council were present including James Steele, Sheri Hopkins, Beverly Lyons, Boyd Farmer, Julie Thomas, and Glen Hurt. Also present, City Attorney Travis Plummer, Mayor Buddy Black and Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker.
After the approval of the July meeting minutes and financial reports, the council heard the city services reports.
Fire Chief Michael Smith stated there were a total of 46 calls, five fire and 41 EMS. Smith noted that the new tanker is near completion and that the department had been donated a 425-gallon skid unit with a diesel engine from the forestry service. Smith sought permission from the mayor and council to start looking for a newer 1-ton truck to replace the older model.
Police Chief Wayne Robb reported a total of 21 calls for his department with 13 agency assists, eight medical, 11 incident/arrest reports, three drug arrests, four adult arrests, and three animal calls. In Scott County, the department issued nine citations, nine violations, and three felony warrants. In Sebastian County, the department issued four citations, and four violations.
Public Works Director Derek Pollard reported a total of 154 service order completed, 22 One Call requests, continued work on the sewer project on Bowman Ave., continued tree trimming away from roadways, located and repaired two water leaks, repaired a blow off at Northwest Scott Rural Volunteer Fire Department, and continued work with the R&R gas line project. Pollard also noted that he and Ryan had obtained a backflow testers certificate in July from ARWA.
In matters of unfinished business, the council approved the revision to page 21 of the personnel policy manual from “actual receipts” to “itemized receipts” due to a recommendation by the state auditor.
In matters of new business, the council recognized Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker on her Master Clerk certification. The council also voted to give Walker a $1,000 annual pay raise.
Next, the council approved and adopted resolution 2024-6, “prohibiting excessive force” policy in the police department manual. Additionally, the council adopted two additional resolutions:
2024-5: application of grant
2024-7: citizen participation plan
In the last matter of new business, the consideration of installing asphalt to the front parking lot of city hall. The council voted unanimously to proceed with the placement of asphalt with Silco in the amount of $26,680.00
Before adjourning, the announcement was made that the next council meeting will be held on September 12. Also, a reminder about the gospel concert at 6 p.m. on September 28 at the Dixie Theater.
