WARREN, Ark. – In a busy meeting of the Warren, Arkansas City Council on March 11, 2024, several critical topics were discussed, ranging from community development to public safety initiatives.
The meeting commenced with the approval of the February meeting minutes and the City Clerk’s Report. Mayor Gregg Reep then delivered his monthly report, announcing vacancies within various commissions and boards, including the Fair Housing Commission, Civil Service Commission, and the Board of Adjustment and Appeals.
The meeting then moved into the public hearing portion concerning the proposed Solar Bond Issue. Mayor Reep welcomed public comments and inquiries regarding the impending construction of a solar farm to power all city facilities. Citizens had the opportunity to voice their opinions and seek clarifications. A few questions were asked about the proposed location. Mayor Reep also emphasized a reminder that the solar farm will only be used to power City facilities, not for residential or business use.
Next, during the public comments session, resident Alma Veliz raised concerns about speeding issues on Oak Street and requested updates on the installation of speed bumps. The Street Committee addressed the matter, considering the possibility of speed mitigation measures while Police Chief Shaun Hildreth assured heightened radar monitoring in the area.
Chief Hildreth also presented the Warren Police Department’s monthly report, highlighting the acquisition of three new Ford Explorers to bolster the department’s fleet.
Fire Chief Chuck Moore shared insights into the Fire Department’s activities, including response statistics and training initiatives. The department’s readiness was underscored by the integration of new air-pack systems and masks.
Sanitation Manager Rob Johnson reported on community sanitation efforts, detailing the placement of additional dumpsters and the upcoming arrival of a new boom loader, slated for May, to streamline waste management operations.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to deliberations within the Community and Economic Development Committee. Council members engaged in a thorough discussion regarding a potential lease-to-purchase agreement with an industrial entity expressing interest in Warren’s Industrial Park. Mayor Reep advocated for swift action, emphasizing the economic benefits and job opportunities associated with the potential industry, which could bring a potential 25 or so jobs to Warren. After a lengthy discussion and some back and forth, the Council voted unanimously in favor of moving forward with talks with the company for a proposed 15-year lease-to-purchase agreement of $150,000 for 27 acres of land in the Warren Industrial Park. The matter will have to come back before the Council for final approval after details have been legally ironed out.
The meeting concluded with a reminder of the next scheduled gathering on April 8, 2024.