The Mansfield City Council met in regular session on Thursday evening, October 20. All members of the council were present including Julie Thomas, James Steele, Jan Carlton, Beverly Lyons, Bobby Musgrove, and Sheri Hopkins. Also present, Mayor Buddy Black and Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker.
After calling the meeting to order, prayer, and Pledge of allegiance, the council approved unanimously the September minutes and financials. Next, the council heard the city services reports.
Fire Chief Michael Smith reported a total of 53 calls, 13 fire, and 30 EMS. Smith also stated that the 1999 Freightliner had sold, and sought the council’s approval to purchase a 2000-gallon polypropene tank to replace the existing rusty metal tank. Lastly, Smith stated that he had put in for a 2017 Dodge Durango and that it will be at no cost to the city.
Next Police Chief Wayne Robb reported 66 total calls, 26 agency assists – seven in Scott County and 19 in Sebastian County, 15 school calls, five medical calls, 12 incident/arrest reports, five total accident reports, 105 total traffic stops, 82 warnings, one DWI arrest, one drug arrest, five adult arrests, and three animal calls.
Public Works Director Joe Manes was not present for the meeting, and Mayor Black read his report. The public works department performed 133 work orders, four water leaks, two main leaks, two service line leaks, relocated the playground equipment at City Lake Park, installed a water tap for a new water customer, and removed a large pecan tree that fell on the middle small gazebo at City Lake.
Mansfield City Attorney Travis Plummer was present and briefed the council on cases he had handled on the city’s behalf.
In matters of unfinished business, the council voted unanimously to approve additional pay for a submersible pump, and reviewed repairs made to the water department’s drive-thru window.
In the last item of unfinished business, Mayor Black informed the council of another option in regard to the mold issue at City Hall. At a previous meeting, the council was presented with options to repair or replace the current building. “I hate to waste taxpayer money,” stated Mayor Black. “We have the money to make these repairs, and the cost is so much cheaper to redo this building.” Ultimately, the council discussed getting more inclusive bids from the company Home Services Foundation Repair.
In matters of new business, the council voted to approve a letter to be submitted to Sebastian County to continue the millage levy and adopted Ordinance 2022-3 to continue the Scott County Millage levy.
In the last item of new business, the council discussed changes to council pay. However, no action was taken in regards to pay for those council members who are present at meetings or not. “We work all month long,” shared Jan Carlton. “Our jobs don’t begin when we walk into a meeting, and they don’t end when we leave.”
Before adjourning, Mayor Black introduced Brad Evans, a candidate for Scott County Judge. “I hear a lot of folks up this way who feel like they aren’t represented. My goal is to be of service to the entire county, from one end to the other.”
Current city employee, Michael Martin addressed the council and stated he would be more than willing to work more hours in the Public Works Department.
With no other items of business, the meeting of the Mansfield City Council was adjourned.
