WARREN, Ark. – In a bustling session convened at the Warren Council Chambers within the Warren Municipal Building, the city’s esteemed Council members congregated to deliberate on matters critical to the community’s growth and well-being. Present at the meeting were Council Members Angela Marshall, Dorothy Henderson, Joel Tolefree, Emily Moseley, and Latanza Atkins, with Council member Memory Burks-Frazer absent. Warren Mayor Gregg Reep presided.
Top photo: Mark Conine of the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) speaks to the Warren City Council.
The proceedings commenced with a substantial portion of time dedicated to a presentation by Mark Conine of the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA). Conine’s presentation centered on proposed payment plans for a loan intended to empower the City of Warren to potentially procure 110 acres of land situated northeast of Warren. This land, strategically located south of the Arkansas 189 Bypass and north of the railroad tracks, represents a promising opportunity for future industrial development within the region.
Bradley County Judge Klay McKinney, who has been collaborating closely with Warren Mayor Gregg Reep on various economic development ventures, underscored the uniqueness of the parcel, noting that its 110 acres boast entirely usable land, already equipped with essential infrastructure such as city water, sewer connections, and convenient highway and rail access. In contrast to other available land parcels in Bradley County, which often feature topographical challenges or require substantial investments to establish necessary utilities and transportation links, the proposed site stands out as an exceptional opportunity for industrial expansion.
Conine made clear that the proposed payment plans, underpinned by a favorable 3 percent interest rate, could be customized to suit the specific needs and fiscal constraints of the city prior to any potential acquisition. Mayor Reep, echoing sentiments of economic revitalization and job creation, conveyed his enthusiasm for attracting new employment opportunities to the community. He stated there are ongoing negotiations with multiple prospects eyeing a 30-acre plot within the Warren Industrial Park. “We are trying to bring new jobs to the community,” he said.
In addition to deliberating on industrial expansion, the Council received updates from Tenay Reep of Warren Water and Sewer regarding challenges posed by severe winter weather in January. The inclement weather necessitated a temporary boil order due to increased water demand following leaks during the thawing period. On a normal day the City goes through approximately 900,000 gallons of water. During the time of the boil order they were having to pump 2.2 million gallons a day due to increased demand caused by leaks throughout town, primarily at private residences. Warren Water and Sewer was able to pump the demanded water, but not able to treat that much in a day. Reep reassured the Council that the situation had been effectively managed, with all boil orders rescinded and the water system operating at normal capacity once again.
Further business included the Council’s approval of a contract awarded to Carlos Yepes for the mowing of city properties throughout 2024.
Mayor Reep also announced several appointments to municipal commissions and boards, including the Fair Housing Commission and the Adjustments and Appeals Board. Beverly Marshall, Nora Pacheco, and Jane Harris were all confirmed to the Fair Housing Commission, while Randall Raney and Dexter Campbell were confirmed to the Adjustments and Appeals Board.
Police Chief Shaun Hildreth delivered the departmental report, highlighting recent acquisitions, staffing adjustments, and ongoing efforts to ensure public safety. The PD recently acquired a 2018 Dodge Ram to serve as the new Animal Control vehicle.
Meanwhile, Fire Chief Chuck Moore provided insights into the Fire Department’s response activities for January, including numerous emergency calls and structural damage resulting from severe weather events. A total of eight structures were completely destroyed during the January 12 severe storm.
Despite grappling with the aftermath of the January storm, which ravaged several structures within the community, Mayor Reep expressed disappointment at the State Department of Emergency Management’s assessment, deeming the disaster insufficiently significant to warrant assistance. Mayor Reep said he and Judge McKinney reached out to the State Department of Emergency Management about the possibility of receiving assistance following the storm. They were told by State officials verbally that the January 12 storm damage did not qualify, though an official letter is expected soon.
Street Foreman Monty Hearnsberger concluded the session with an overview of ongoing efforts to address infrastructure damage caused by the inclement weather, including pothole repairs and maintenance work aimed at ensuring the safety and functionality of local roadways.
The Council unanimously approved repairs to the Emergency Services Center roof.