Personnel Shake Up Continues

by Tammy Moore Teague
Although the biggest news of the night was the resignation of the mayor, other news at Thursday’s city council meeting included the business of street repair, addressing ADEQ violations and waste water plant equipment.
Public Works Director Ken Swilling reported to the council that he could recommend a company to provide materials for street repair. After discussions, the council decided to save money by hauling the material themselves and to purchase five tons.
City recorder/treasurer, Becky Walker, who served as an overseer of the meeting, reported that the pumps initially ordered for the waste water plant were not compatible. These correct are much more costly at $8,450 each. This price included a pro-rated warranty, however it did not include the cost of frieght. The council voted to proceed with the purchase as it is delaying the progress of getting the plant up to the Arkansas Department of Environmental Equality’s code.
Additionally, Landmark Engineering’s services would be needed to clear other issues with the plant. These issues include discharge monitoring reports or DMRs, non compliance forms and photos of the repaired tanks. None of these have been submitted to ADEQ. The cost for the city to implore their services was estimated at $600-$700.
At ten till eight the council went into executive session to discuss personnel matters. Upon reconvening, they approved some increased raises for employees in an effort to show employee appreciation and boost morale. “We must take care of our people,” Walker said “they are the most important of all.”
The next weekly meeting of the city council will be postponed and moved to Thursday March 29th. Business slated for that meeting includes more discussion on the waste water plant and updates on the street repairs.