Minutes July 18,2023
The City of Dover in Pope County, State of Arkansas, met in regular session July 18, 2023, at the Dover City Hall. The following were present: Mayor Lee presiding and the following council members: Russell Warhurst, Fred Standridge, Chris Walker, Connie Ragsdale, Carl Wetzel, Brent Hottinger and Attorney Luker.
Absent: None
Prayer: Fred Standridge
Pledge of Allegiance led by Russell Warhurst.
The mayor and council welcomed the newly appointed City Recorder, Renee Nelson.
Mayor Lee swore in two council members Chris Walker (Moved to different ward) and Brent Hottinger.
The minutes of the June 20, 2023, meeting was reviewed and there being no corrections, Alderman Standridge made motion to accept the minutes. Alderman Walker 2nd. A Voice Vote. Yeas: 6. Nays: 0. Motion Carried.
The monthly bills were received and signed. Alderman Walker made a motion to approve payment of the bills. Alderman Warhurst 2nd. A Voice Vote. Yeas: 6. Nays: 0. Motion Carried.
Update on Eclipse 2024: Chamber of Commerce and Summer Recreation Committee will be working together on planning event.
Melissa Sanders gave the Library Report. There were 2460 visitors, 8 new library cards, 28 Wi-Fi users, summertime reading program for June averaging 50 kids each week. Clubs are down for the summer possibly due to vacations and should pick up when school is back in session.
Jonathan Dotson, a local trucker was placed on the agenda to express his concern with the Jake Brake Ordinance. He asked that Jake Brakes be allowed between Market Street near Round Rock Road to where the speed limit is reduced to 45 mph by Harps grocery. Motion by Alderman Standridge to amend Jake Brakes ordinance. Alderman Walker 2nd. A Voice Vote. Yeas: 6. Nays: 0. Motion carried.
Ron Walker, Planning Commissioner, reported prospective changes in the future but further research and discussion is needed.
A concerned citizen asked for help with an abandoned house near her residence. The mayor stated that we have Ordinance 2017-3 that addresses the issue but has not been enforced. The council unanimously voiced an opinion that now was the time to begin enforcing it. After some discussion it was decided to move ahead with procedures to get the issue resolved along with a second house in the city limits.
Yancy Poynter gave the utility report.
Water dept.
- gensets re-fueled
- backflow testing completed
- repaired 2 leaks
- replaced pneumatic actuator on clear-well discharge valve
- replaced motor on exhaust fan booster station
- installed 1 service
Sewer dept.
- propane tank replaced at lift station
Street DEPT.
- patched streets
- picked up debris from storm
- repaired welcome to dover sign on 27
- replaced culvert on east walker
- cleaned ditches
Fire Chief Duvall gave the fire report. He stated there were 19 calls.
Chief Dalrymple gave the police report, total calls 1431, 187 contacts, 654 property checks, and 1122 extra patrols. New camera systems have been purchased for Police vehicles. Installation to be scheduled soon.
2022 Legislative Audit and Wastewater Audit had two findings 1) Unused vacation not up to date 2) When bidding procedure is deemed not feasible or practical, governing body may waive requirements of competitive bidding by Resolution.
Executive Session Called. Motion by Alderman Standridge. Alderman Walker 2nd. Alderman Standridge made a motion for a 3% cost of living increase in city employees pay as of next pay period. Alderman Hottinger 2nd. A Voice Vote. Yeas: 6. Nays: 0. Motion Carried.
Bradley Nelson addressed the council on financial assistance for the Chamber of Commerce regarding OMD. Council will be discussing options and get back to Chamber.
Alderman Ragsdale made motion to adjourn. Alderman Standridge 2nd. A Voice Vote. Yeas: 6. Nays: 0. Meeting Adjourned.
