Russellville public meetings in 2023

City Council

The City Council will discuss a public hearing regarding water and sewer system improvements and the issuance of revenue bonds. The meeting also includes several appropriation requests for debris disposal, facility construction, and fire department equipment.

• Public hearing for water and sewer system improvements and revenue bond issuance
• $18,000.00 appropriation for June 2023 storm damage debris disposal
• $34,527.00 appropriation for a new Public Works dry storage facility
• $50,026.42 appropriation for fire department body armor and helmets
• Rezoning request for property located at 725 S Macon Ave.

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting for its regular business session, which includes approving minutes, reviewing the November financial report, and getting updates on the fence/service gate project and sign damage. The commission will also receive the annual year-end report and prepare the agenda for the January 2024 meeting. The meeting will recess into a holiday gathering afterward.

• Approval of November 21, 2023 meeting minutes
• Financial report for month ending November 30, 2023
• Update on fence/service gate project along east cemetery line
• Update on sign damage at 8th and Detroit
• Presentation of Annual Year End Report

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the manager's report, including December fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old and new business. The main items are an update on the KRUE project and a discussion about fees for an Eclipse event. The agenda is largely procedural, with no votes or decisions listed.

• December Jet-A sales: 4,384 gallons ($19,780.55)
• December AVGAS sales: 1,997.44 gallons ($7,028.01)
• Accounts receivable: $15,176.68 in 0-30 days, $119.72 in 31-60 days, $155.09 in 61-90 days
• City hangar occupancy: 100% enclosed, 100% shade, 65% private
• Hangar waiting list: 24 aircraft

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission is meeting to approve minutes from August 24, 2023. The primary agenda item is an end-of-year discussion.

• Approval of August 24, 2023 minutes
• End of year discussion

City Council

The City Council will consider resolutions regarding federal grant management and local hazard planning. The meeting also includes a proposal to accept funds for police department expansion.

• $625,000 DOJ grant for hiring new police officers
• Adoption of the Pope County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• New procurement policy for federal grants

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission is meeting to decide on two items: a special use permit for a billboard along I-40 and a rezoning request for a property on S Macon Ave. The commission will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Special use permit for a billboard in a C-2 zone near Exit 83 on I-40, submitted by River Valley Sign for GCK Properties (SPUP-1023-000437)
• Rezoning from R-2 to M-1 at 725 S Macon Ave, submitted by Osmin Herrera (ZONE-1123-00451)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review November 2023 fuel sales, financial accounts, and hangar occupancy, and to accept the manager's report. Old business includes a project update for KRUE, and new business includes a discussion of an Eclipse event fee. The agenda is largely routine with financial and operational reports.

• November Jet-A sales: 6,571 gallons, $30,597.70
• November AVGAS sales: 2,125 gallons, $11,172.84
• Accounts receivable 0-30 days: $3,942.56
• City hangar occupancy 100%, private hangars 65%
• Hangar waiting list: 21 aircraft

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on November 28, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The board will consider two variance requests: one to extend a non-conforming parking area at 1200-1218 N Jackson Ave, and another to waive design standards for billboards along I-40 near Exit 83. No old business is listed.

• Variance to extend non-conforming parking area at 1200-1218 N Jackson Ave (VARI-1123-000448)
• Variance from billboard design standards along I-40 near Exit 83 (VARI-1123-000447)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Commission will review financial reports through October 31, 2023, and discuss a proposal to reduce the frequency of meetings. The agenda also includes updates on a service gate project and a sign damaged by an accident at 8th & Detroit.

• Proposal to reduce meeting frequency to bi-monthly or quarterly
• Update on fence/service gate project along the east line of the cemetery
• Discussion of sign damage at 8th & Detroit occurring November 9, 2023

City Council

The City Council is considering the adoption of General Fund and Street Fund budgets for 2024. The agenda also includes several proposed ordinances regarding public safety, traffic, and zoning code amendments.

• Adoption of the 2024 General Fund Revenues and Expenditures Budget
• $28,798 appropriation for conduit connecting Central Fire and City Hall
• $22,400 appropriation for the City's portion of Airport Taxiway Bravo construction
• Ordinance to codify existing public safety, health, and welfare offenses as misdemeanors
• Ordinance to codify existing traffic and parking offenses as civil violations

City Council

The City Council is holding a special called meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding an easement vacation in Western Hills Phase 1. The council will also consider a resolution to adopt the 2024 employee health care contribution.

• Public hearing for easement vacation between lots 136 and 137 of Western Hills Phase 1
• Resolution to adopt the 2024 Employee Health Care Contribution

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting on November 2, 2023, to review seven items of new business. These include a large-scale development by Owens Corning, three special use permits for a car rental, trailer sales, and a billboard, plus a utility easement vacation, a replat, and a zoning code text amendment. The commission will also approve minutes from the October 5 meeting.

• Large Scale Development along Tyler Road by Owens Corning Foam Insulation (LSDV-1023-000436)
• Special Use Permit for car rental at 111 S Arkansas (SPUP-0923-000431)
• Special Use Permit for trailer sales at 215 W Tacoma (SPUP-1023-000441)
• Special Use Permit for billboard along I-40 near Exit 83 (SPUP-1023-000437)
• Vacation of 15' utility easement and replat of Lots 136/137, Western Hills Addition (VAC-0923-000428, ISUB-1023-000440)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on November 2, 2023, to consider two variance requests. The first seeks a reduction in the front yard setback requirement at 909 S Glenwood, and the second requests a waiver of the required six-foot physical barrier between commercial and residential zones at 215 W Tacoma. Both applications were submitted by Colton and Kelsea Grace on behalf of Emmett Barnes.

• Variance from Article 15 for front yard setback reduction at 909 S Glenwood (VARI-1023-000439)
• Variance from Article 4.3 to waive six-foot physical barrier requirement at 215 W Tacoma (VARI-1023-000442)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission held a regular meeting on October 24, 2023, at the Central Fire Station. The agenda lists commissioners and city department representatives present, with several absences. No substantive decisions or discussions are recorded; the agenda is procedural only.

• Meeting held at Central Fire Station, Russellville, and online via Google Meets
• Commissioners present: Mark Lykins, Toni Bachman, Jon Brown, Phillip Lea
• Absent: Ruben Camacho, Jason Ramsey, Barbara Horton
• City representatives present: Fire Chief Brent Moix, Police Chief David Ewing

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the airport manager's report, including fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old and new business items. Old business includes updates on the KRUE project, campsite construction, a new commission member recommendation, and potential ordinance amendments. New business covers plans for Hangars 1 West and 11 East.

• October Jet-A sales: 7,298.65 gallons ($36,144.33)
• October AVGAS sales: 2,936.65 gallons ($15,548.22)
• Accounts receivable: $4,993.27 (0-30 days), $65.00 (31-60 days), $65.00 (61-90 days)
• City hangar occupancy at 100%, private hangars at 65%
• Hangar waiting list: 21 aircraft

City Council

The City Council will review several financial appropriations, including funding for sidewalk connectivity and cemetery improvements. The agenda also includes second and final readings for various rezoning ordinances and land use amendments.

• Appropriation of $40,549.80 for 2023 Sidewalk Connectivity
• Bid acceptance from Bowden Specialties, Inc. for sidewalk projects on Reasoner, Timberwood, Red Hill, and Ashley Lanes
• Appropriation of $32,000.00 for fencing and a gate at Oakland Cemetery
• Resolution to sell 0.12 acres of real estate by 632 Water Works Road as surplus property
• Reimbursement requests for Arkansas Valley Alliance ($19,840.99) and Alliance Workforce Development ($21,048.19)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing finances, and receiving updates on maintenance and a fence project. They will also consider a proposal to reduce meetings to bi-monthly or quarterly, and take public comments.

• Approval of September 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Financial report for month ending September 30, 2023
• Update on grounds maintenance contract with After Hours Lawn Care
• Update on fence/service gate project along east line of cemetery
• Proposal to reduce meetings to bi-monthly or quarterly

Recreation & Parks Commission

The Russellville Recreation and Parks Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the Russellville Connected Trail System, turf projects at M.J. Hickey and Pleasant View parks, the Aquatic Center, and tournaments/events. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and a monthly report, with no old business listed.

• Russellville Connected Trail System updates
• M.J. Hickey Park Turf Project
• Pleasant View Park Turf Project
• Aquatic Center update
• Tournaments/Events update

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on October 5, 2023. The agenda includes procedural items such as approving the September 7, 2023 minutes. The only substantive item is a new business appeal regarding the interpretation of the Russellville Zoning Code at 819 W 4th St.

• Appeal of Enforcement Officer decision on zoning code interpretation at 819 W 4th St, submitted by Laura Whitlock

City Council

The City Council is holding a special called meeting to discuss and approve the appointment of an Alderman for Ward I. The council will also consider approving the nomination of Andy Dodson for the A and P Board.

• Approval of Andy Dodson's nomination for the A and P Board
• Discussion and approval to fill the Ward I Alderman vacancy

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the manager's report, including fuel sales and financials, and to discuss old and new business items such as aircraft campsite construction, a new commission member recommendation, SOP document completion, KRUE project updates, potential ordinance amendments, CIP approval, and open hangar relocation. The agenda is largely procedural, with no votes or decisions listed.

• September 2023 Jet-A sales: 3,967 gallons ($17,114.97)
• September 2023 AVGAS sales: 2,065.01 gallons ($11,071.43)
• Accounts receivable aging: $6,525.52 (0-30 days), $586.70 (31-60), $379.55 (61-90), $886.92 (>90)
• City hangar occupancy: 98% enclosed, 100% shade, 65% private; 21 aircraft on waiting list
• Old business: aircraft campsite construction, new commission member, SOP document, KRUE project update, ordinance amendments

City Council

The City Council will discuss several resolutions regarding the consolidation of city operations with Pope County facilities and the purchase of land on North Sidney Avenue. The agenda also includes decisions on property sales, tax levies, and various budget appropriations.

• Resolution to consolidate city operations with Pope County Road and EMS facilities
• Purchase of two acres of land on North Sidney Avenue for city operations consolidation
• Sale of the City Corporation Maintenance Facility at 612 South Arkansas Avenue as surplus property
• Appropriation of $81,865.72 for Fire Department ambulance equipment
• Appropriation of $38,000.00 for a Dodge Durango vehicle for RFD

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission will meet to approve minutes, review finances, and get updates on the grounds maintenance contract and the fence project. Public comments are invited.

• Approval of August 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Financial report for month ending August 31, 2023
• Debriefing from September 16, 2023 mini-workshop
• Update on possible extension of grounds maintenance contract with After Hours Lawn Care
• Status update on fence and service gates project along east line of cemetery

Recreation & Parks Commission

The Russellville Recreation and Parks Commission is meeting to discuss updates on several ongoing projects, including City Park renovations, ADA fishing piers, and turf work at M.J. Hickey and Pleasant View parks. They will also consider new projects, such as a pickleball court grant and an ArDOT grant for West 2nd Street. No old or new business items are listed, and the agenda is largely an update and discussion session.

• City Park Renovations update
• ADA Fishing Piers update
• Turf Project at M.J. Hickey Park and Pleasant View Park
• Pickleball Court Grant discussion
• ArDOT Grant for West 2nd Street discussion

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting on September 7, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The agenda includes one rezoning request, two special use permits, an alley vacation, and two zone text amendments. These items are under consideration and may be approved, denied, or tabled.

• Rezoning 1805 W Main Street from R-1 to R-O (ZONE-0623-000372)
• Special use permit for trucking company at 306 E 39th Street (SPUP-0723-000391)
• Special use permit for RV sales business at 3814 S Arkansas Ave (SPUP-0323-000341)
• Vacation of alley between Lots 3 and 10, Block 1, Northside Addition (VAC-0823-000407)
• Zone text amendments to Zoning Code and Land Subdivision and Development Code (ZONE-0823-000397, ZONE-0823-000398)

The Planning Commission recommended approval of updates to the Russellville Zoning Code and Land-Subdivision Development Code. The commission also approved two special use permits for automotive and RV businesses and recommended a rezoning for a property on West Main Street.

• Recommended approval of rezoning 1805 W Main Street from R-1 to R-O (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for trucking company at 306 E 39th Street (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for RV sales business at 3814 S Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Tabled alley vacation between Lots 3 and 10 Block 1 Northside Addition due to lack of utility response (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Zoning Code updates to City Council (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Land-Subdivision Development Code updates to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved August 3, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on September 7, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The board will consider three variance requests: a pylon sign exceeding size limits, a sidewalk requirement waiver, and a fence height variance. No old business is listed.

• Variance to allow replacement of a pylon sign exceeding allowable square footage by 301.84 sq ft at 1319 S Arkansas (Signs Unlimited for Leonard's Hardware)
• Variance from 5-foot sidewalk requirement along North Arkansas Ave at 901 N Arkansas Ave (Barrett & Associates for Mike Fritz)
• Variance to allow an 8-foot fence along rear yard at 800-810 S Louisville Ave (City of Russellville for multiple property owners)

The Board of Adjustment approved variances for a sign replacement at Leonard’s Hardware, a sidewalk width exception for a future Little Caesars Pizza, and an 8-foot fence for residents on S. Louisville Ave.

• Approved variance for pylon sign replacement at 1319 S Arkansas (unanimous)
• Approved variance to maintain 4-foot sidewalks at 901 N Arkansas Ave with stipulation that damaged sections must be replaced with 5-foot sidewalks (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 8-foot fence at 800-810 S Louisville Ave (unanimous)
• Approved August 3, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the manager's report, including August fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old and new business items. The agenda includes routine approvals and updates on various projects and events.

• August Jet-A sales: 3,873 gallons ($16,624)
• August AVGAS sales: 2,586 gallons ($13,348.95)
• Accounts receivable aging: $9,623.24 (0-30 days), $5,668.66 (31-60 days), $2,547.08 (61-90 days), $3,126.07 (>90 days)
• City hangar occupancy: 98% overall, 95% enclosed, 72% shade, 100% private
• Hangar waiting list: 21 aircraft

The Airport Advisory Commission approved a measure to propose an ordinance allowing the commission to override decisions by the Mayor and Manager via a City Council tie-break. The body also nominated two individuals for commission membership and accepted the manager's report.

• Approved 4-2 to add a clause for Commission to override Manager & Mayor decisions by having City Council break the tie
• Decided to submit Julie Zelnick and Emily Oakly as names for commission membership to the Mayor
• Accepted minutes of 08/01/23 (Unanimous)
• Accepted Manager's and Financial reports (Unanimous)
• Decided Hangar 1 West Door will not be replaced

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission will review a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for new fabric awnings at Peters Family Living, 200 N. Commerce, replacing damaged metal awnings. The commission will also receive updates on unfinished business, including the status of a contract for a National Register nomination for the Old Town Neighborhood, the Latimore Tourist Home Phase Ib, and maintenance issues for a mural and wall hangings. Staff approvals since the last meeting will be reported.

• COA review for new fabric awnings at Peters Family Living, 200 N. Commerce, with signage 'Peters Family Living' and 'Furniture And Appliances'
• Status of contract with Santez of Austin, Texas for National Register nomination of Old Town Neighborhood
• Report on Latimore Tourist Home Phase Ib
• Maintenance status of 'I Heart Russellville' mural at McKinnon Building, 312-316 W. Main Street
• Resolution of wall hangings on north side of Jackalope without a COA

The Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for new fabric awnings at 200 N. Commerce Avenue. Staff also reported the relocation of the Garden Sass sign from S. Boulder to N. Commerce.

• Approved COA for new fabric awnings at 200 N. Commerce Avenue (voice vote)
• Approved July 24, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections (voice vote)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission will meet to approve minutes from July, accept updated Rules and Regulations, and review new police hires and a new written test for the police department. The fire department will also discuss new hire testing scheduled for September 16 and 23, and the police department will set a written test date for September 14 and consider a request to suspend competition to hire a certified officer.

• Approve minutes of July 2023 meeting
• Accept new Rules and Regulations with changes
• New hire list for RPD
• Report on new written test for RPD
• Request for Suspension of Competition to hire a certified officer

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several appropriations for fire department facilities, police vehicle repairs, and parks improvements. The agenda also includes resolutions for utility relocations, sidewalk maintenance, and rezoning requests.

• Bid acceptance from Bowden Specialties, Inc. for $394,205.20 for Fire Department Live-Burn Facility construction
• Appropriation of $183,911.33 for a new playground unit and pavilion at M.J. Hickey Park
• Agreement with Entergy Arkansas LLC to relocate 1665.83 feet of overhead power lines on East 2nd Street
• Rezoning ordinance for the 300 block of Hob Nob Road submitted by Legends Resort & Casino LLC
• Appropriation of $38,318.95 for fall protection surface at Shiloh Park

The City Council approved several appropriations for public safety and recreation, including a new fire facility site and playground upgrades. The council also authorized agreements for sidewalk maintenance and power line relocation. A proposal to consolidate City Corporation operations was tabled.

• Approved $394,205.20 for Fire Department Live-Burn Facility site construction (7-0)
• Accepted bid from Bowden Specialties, Inc. for Fire Facility site dirt work and construction (7-0)
• Approved $8,479.40 for Police Department vehicle repairs via insurance reimbursement (7-0)
• Approved $40,157.96 for Fire and Police retirement (LOPFI) expenses (7-0)
• Approved $38,318.95 for Shiloh Park play unit fall protection surface (7-0)
• Approved $183,911.33 for Hickey Park playground unit and pavilion (7-0)
• Approved $25,088.53 for Parks and Recreation top dresser equipment (7-0)
• Tabled consolidation of City Corporation operations and land purchase on North Sidney Avenue (5-2)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission will meet to approve the July minutes, review the financial report for July, and get an update on grounds maintenance. They will also start a discussion on holding fall workshops for stone cleaning and small stone leveling. Public comments are invited.

• Approval of minutes from July 18, 2023 meeting
• Financial report for month ending July 31, 2023
• Grounds maintenance update
• Discussion of fall workshops for stone cleaning and small stone leveling

The Commission approved the July 18, 2023 minutes and scheduled three workshops for stone cleaning and leveling. Director Warwick will obtain three quotes for a new fence and sliding gate along Detroit Avenue. The City is exploring emergency funds to cover storm damage costs.

• Approved July 18, 2023 minutes
• Scheduled workshops for September 16, September 30, and October 14 from 9am to 1pm
• Authorized Director Warwick to obtain three quotes for Detroit Avenue fence and gate

City Council

The City Council is considering an appropriation to purchase an AWIN Radio Repeater. This equipment is intended to improve the radio communication system for fire, police, and public works staff.

• $37,262.35 appropriation for an AWIN Radio Repeater

The City Council approved an appropriation to purchase an AWIN radio repeater. The equipment is intended to improve the radio communication system for police, fire, and public works staff.

• Approved $37,262.35 appropriation for AWIN Radio Repeater (8-0)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting to consider several land-use items. These include a rezoning request, a large-scale development, and two vacation requests for a plat and an alley. The meeting will also include approval of the previous month's minutes.

• Rezoning from R-1 to R-O at 1805 W Main Street, submitted by The Lighthouse Companies for Deanna Arivett (ZONE-0623-000372)
• Large Scale Development at N Houston and W Parkway Drive, submitted by PK Development, LLC for The Pointe II at Russellville (LSDV-0723-000388)
• Vacation of Plat at 401 Quarry Road, submitted by Eddy Ward for Jim Woker (VAC-0723-000383)
• Vacation of Alley at 207 Arkansas Ave, submitted by Chris Abington (VAC-0723-000384)

The Commission approved a large-scale mixed-use project and a downtown alley vacation. Two other items were tabled or forwarded to the City Council for final approval.

• Approved Large Scale Development for The Pointe II (32 residential units, 7 commercial spaces) with stipulation to meet staff improvements (Unanimous)
• Approved vacation of alley at 207 Arkansas Ave with a 15-foot sewer and public utility easement (Unanimous)
• Forwarded vacation of plat at 401 Quarry Road to City Council with staff recommendations (Unanimous)
• Approved request to table rezoning of 1805 W Main Street from R-1 to R-O (Unanimous)
• Approved July 6, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting to consider two variance requests from the city's fence height regulations. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting. No old business is listed.

• Variance to allow an 8-foot rear yard fence at 1112 Laredo Ave. (VARI-0723-000382)
• Variance to allow a 4-foot front yard fence at the corner of Inglewood and Honeysuckle (VARI-0723-000380)

The Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests regarding fence heights. One request allowed an 8-foot fence for privacy and safety at a residential property, and another allowed a 4-foot fence to surround a cemetery.

• Approved July 6, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 8’ fence at 1112 Laredo Ave (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 4’ fence at corner of Inglewood and Honeysuckle (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the manager's report, including fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old and new business items. Old business includes a new commission member recommendation, SOP document, ordinance amendments, and project updates. New business covers several capital projects and events, such as hangar door replacement, runway remarking, apron reconstruction, and a fall fly-in.

• July 2023 Jet-A sales: 5,997 gallons ($25,937.47); AVGAS: 3,301 gallons ($16,401.38)
• Accounts receivable aging: 0-30 days $16,251.39; 31-60 days $8,122.59; 61-90 days $2,072.81; >90 days $1,502.41
• Hangar occupancy: City enclosed 100%, city shade 65%, private 100%; waiting list 17 aircraft
• New business: Hangar 1 West Door Replacement, Runway Remarking, Apron Reconstruction Phase I
• New business: New Courtesy Car, Aircraft Campsite Construction, Fall Fly-In Schedule

The Commission unanimously accepted the minutes from May and June 2023 and the July manager's report. Members discussed potential new commission appointments and the status of the airport's SOP document. No formal action was taken on proposals to change the commission's advisory status.

• Approved minutes of 5/23/23 and 6/27/23 (Unanimous)
• Approved July 2023 Manager's Report (Unanimous)

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission will review three certificates of appropriateness (COAs) for signage and a mural, discuss unfinished business including the Old Town Neighborhood nomination and Latimore Tourist Home, and hear a request about historic designation for Independence Avenue. The meeting is a regular session with public comment and staff reports.

• COA for a 19" x 33" sign at 218 West B Street (Bud White Building) for vintage clothing shop
• COA for signage at 312 West 2nd Street (Caudle Building) for Dog Ear Books and Retro Roasts
• COA for a 4-foot diameter eclipse mural at 308 West B Street
• Update on Latimore Tourist Home Phase Ib
• Request to discuss historic designation for Independence Avenue

The commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) for signs and a mural in the historic district. Members also discussed the progress of the Old Town Neighborhood Historic District nomination and the Latimore Tourist Home restoration.

• Approved COA for sign at 218 West B Street (voice vote)
• Approved COA for signage at 312 West 2nd Street (voice vote)
• Approved COA for eclipse mural at 308 West B Street (voice vote)
• Approved April 27, 2023 meeting minutes (voice vote)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission will discuss and potentially decide on several police and fire department personnel matters, including a proposal to lower the firefighter new hire age limit from 21 to 18, extending the police probationary period, and waiving competitive testing for certified officers. They will also review reports on recent testing and consider approving the May 2023 minutes.

• Proposal to change firefighter new hire age limit from 21 to 18 years
• Consideration to waive competitive testing to hire a certified police officer
• Proposal to extend police probationary period from 12 to 18 months
• Change of title from Captain to Assistant Chief in Rules and Regulations Manual
• New hire testing for RPD on August 10; Fire Department testing on September 9 and 16

The Commission approved several changes to police department staffing, including extending the probationary period for new officers to 18 months and renaming the Captain title to Assistant Chief. It also lowered the minimum hiring age for the Fire Department to 18 and approved the use of the National Testing Network exam for police.

• Approved lowering minimum Fire Department hire age from 21 to 18
• Approved waiving competitive testing to hire Officer John Frank
• Approved utilizing National Testing Network exam process for police department
• Approved changing PAT test hat #4 to green
• Approved changing Captain title to Assistant Chief and eliminating Major office
• Approved extending new hire police probationary period from 12 to 18 months
• Approved minutes of May 23, 2023

City Council

The Russellville City Council will consider several resolutions and ordinances regarding infrastructure, utility leases, and land use. Items include a bid for the East J Street Sidewalk Project and a request to exempt residents with disabilities from permit fees for wheelchair ramps.

• Bid acceptance from Edward Constructive Solutions, Inc. for the East J Street Sidewalk Project
• One-year lease extension with City Corporation for water and sewer system operations
• Ordinance to exempt persons with disabilities from building permit fees for residential wheelchair ramps
• Rezoning request submitted by Legends Resort & Casino LLC
• Ordinance to change siding material requirements at Hudson Harbor Estates to Everlast Siding

The City Council approved several financial appropriations, including funding for two new fire department ambulances and the East “J” Street Sidewalk Project. The council also approved grants for historic preservation and reimbursements for community organizations.

• Appropriated $156,090 for two new RFD ambulance chassis (6-0)
• Waived formal bidding for two RFD ambulance transport units and equipment (6-0)
• Appropriated $10,100 for Arkansas Historic Preservation Program Grant (6-0)
• Approved reimbursement requests for Arkansas Valley Alliance ($22,437.43), Alliance Workforce Development ($26,850.36), and Boys & Girls Club ($26,528.38) (6-0)
• Appropriated $6,000 for July 4, 2023 community fireworks display (6-0)
• Declared three police department motor vehicles as surplus property for sale (6-0)
• Accepted bid from Edward Constructive Solutions, Inc. for East “J” Street Sidewalk Project (6-0)
• Approved ordinance exempting residents with disabilities from permit fees for wheelchair ramps (6-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review financial reports, and discuss the Plot Marker Project in Campbell Addition. They will also debrief a headstone cleaning workshop and receive a briefing on storm damage from June 18/19. The public may address concerns during the meeting.

• Approval of minutes from May 16, 2023; June 20 meeting canceled due to power outages
• Financial report for months ending May 31 and June 30, 2023
• Update on Plot Marker Project in Campbell Addition
• Debrief of May 27 headstone cleaning mini-workshop
• Briefing on storm damage from June 18/19 and following weekend

The commission banned the planting of Bradford pear trees in the cemetery. The board also reviewed financial reports and the status of the Campbell Addition Plot Marker Project.

• Approved May meeting minutes
• Banned Bradford pear trees from Oakland Cemetery (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting on July 6, 2023, to consider several land-use requests. The agenda includes a special use permit for a digital billboard, a special use permit for an auto wrecker service and repair garage, a revision to the Hudson Harbor PUD, a rezoning request that the applicant has asked to table, and a rezoning for a property on Hob Nob Road. The commission will also approve minutes from the June 1 meeting.

• Special use permit for a digital billboard at 46 Bradley Cove Road (Vision Outdoor Media, LLC for Winslow Holdings LLC)
• Special use permit for auto wrecker service and auto repair garage in C-2 zone at 3933 E Main Street (Cogswell Motors, Inc for GCK Properties, LLC)
• Revision to Hudson Harbor PUD off Marina Road (Barrett & Associates for Will & Laura Wetzel & Butler Family Properties)
• Request to table rezoning from R-1 to R-O at 1805 W Main Street (The Lighthouse Companies for Deanna Arivett)
• Rezoning from R-1 to C-2 in 300 Block of Hob Nob Road (Barrett & Associates for Legends Resort & Casino LLC)

The Planning Commission approved several special use permits and a PUD revision. One rezoning request was forwarded to the City Council, while another was tabled.

• Approved special use permit for digital billboard at 46 Bradley Cove Road (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for auto wrecker service and repair garage at 3933 E Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved revision to Hudson Harbor PUD to allow Everlast Composite Siding (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning of 1805 W Main Street from R-1 to R-O (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding rezoning of 300 Block of Hob Nob Road from R-1 to C-2 to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved June 1, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on July 6, 2023. The main item is a request for a variance to reduce the required distance between billboards from 1,000 feet to 675 feet at 46 Bradley Cove Road. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Variance request to reduce billboard spacing to 675 feet (VARI-0623-000374)
• Location: 46 Bradley Cove Road
• Applicant: Vision Outdoor Media, LLC for Winslow Holdings LLC
• Approval of minutes from June 1 and June 12, 2023

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance to reduce the required distance between billboards to 675 feet instead of 1,000 feet for a property at 46 Bradley Cove Road. The decision allows Vision Outdoor Media, LLC on behalf of Winslow Holdings LLC to replace an existing Exxon sign with a digital billboard.

• Approved June 1, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance (VARI-0623-000374) to reduce billboard distance to 675 feet at 46 Bradley Cove Road (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the manager's report, including June fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old business such as the CIP update, hangar door grant, and hangar flooring repairs. The agenda includes accepting last month's minutes and the manager's report, with no new business items listed beyond miscellaneous.

• June 2023 Jet-A sales: 4,806 gallons ($20,470.80)
• June 2023 AVGAS sales: 3,171 gallons ($15,798.22)
• Accounts receivable aging for May 2023: 0-30 days $14,077.30, 31-60 days $2,788.29, 61-90 days $1,662.25, >90 days $168.42
• Hangar occupancy: City enclosed 100%, city shade 65%, private 100%
• Update on CIP, hangar door grant, and Hanger 1 West flooring repairs

The commission noted that an investigation by the Arkansas Office of Air Quality has stopped all work on Hangar 1 West. The Mayor reported that four applicants have been interviewed for the vacant Airport Manager position. No formal votes were recorded during the meeting.

• Hangar 1 West work stopped due to asbestos investigation
• Lance Oakley recommended to fill commission vacancy
• Proposal for commission override/veto authority tabled for next month's agenda

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review the financial report for May 2023, and get updates on the Plot Marker Project in Campbell Addition. They will also debrief the May 27 headstone cleaning workshop and take public comments. The meeting is open to the public.

• Approval of minutes from May 16, 2023 meeting
• Financial report for month ending May 31, 2023
• Update on Plot Marker Project in Campbell Addition
• Debrief of headstone cleaning mini-workshop held May 27
• Public comment period

No meeting was held on June 20, 2023. The cancellation was due to severe storm damage and power outages in the city and county.

City Council

The Russellville City Council is reviewing several appropriations, including funding for athletic turf at Hickey and Pleasant View ball parks. The agenda also includes discussions on making Juneteenth a paid holiday and approving multiple construction bids.

• $1,671,917 appropriation for athletic turf at Hickey Ball Park and Pleasant View Ball Park
• Approval of bids for Waco Pond Control Structure, West 2nd Street Box Culvert, and Runway Remarking
• $26,906.12 appropriation for Juneteenth holiday pay for Fire and Police departments
• Discussion to consider making Juneteenth a paid holiday for the City of Russellville
• Proposed annexation of contiguous territory for a special election on November 14, 2023

The City Council approved significant funding for athletic turf at Hickey and Pleasant View Ball Parks and accepted construction bids for the Waco Pond control structure, West 2nd Street culvert, and airport runway remarking. Other actions included funding for the Latimore Tourist Home restoration and a 2024 solar eclipse awareness campaign.

• Approved $1,671,917 for athletic turf at Hickey and Pleasant View Ball Parks (8-0)
• Approved $102,000 for Phase 2 of Latimore Tourist Home Restoration (8-0)
• Accepted bid from Edwards Constructive Solutions, Inc. for Waco Pond Control Structure (8-0)
• Accepted bid from Bowden Specialties, Inc. for West 2nd Street Box Culvert Replacement (8-0)
• Accepted bid from Metro Construction Services, LLC for Airport Runway Remarking (8-0)
• Approved $10,693.37 for 2024 Solar Eclipse citizen awareness campaign (8-0)
• Approved $16,386.71 for insurance and workers compensation expenses (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2451 amending the Personnel Policy Manual (8-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance request for the new Pope County EMS facility at 1850 N Arkansas. The approval covers multiple items including building design, mechanical screening, landscaping, and signage.

• Approved variance for commercial building design, landscaping, and signage at 1850 N Arkansas (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Commission approved a preliminary plat for a 61-lot subdivision and a revised special use permit for a cryptocurrency mining facility. The subdivision approval excluded requirements for a wall and sidewalk along Marina Road.

• Approved Preliminary Plat for Scenic Way Village Phases I & II (unanimous), excluding sidewalk and fence/wall requirements along Marina Road
• Approved revised Special Use Permit for cryptocurrency mining facility at 611 Tyler Road with a +/-3dBA allowance (unanimous)
• Approved May 4, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on June 1, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The board will consider two variance requests: one to exceed the accessory structure square footage limit and another to allow a fence taller than the 6-foot limit. No old business is listed.

• Variance from Article 3.1.2(8) to allow approximately 3,900 square feet of accessory structure (VARI-0523-000364)
• Variance from Article 4.1 to allow an 8.5-foot fence despite the 6-foot height limit (VARI-0523-000367)

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance for an accessory structure at 207 Turrentine Place and a fence height variance for a Starbucks location. The board also approved the meeting minutes from May 4, 2023.

• Approved May 4, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 4,860 sq ft accessory structure at 207 Turrentine Place (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 8.5-foot fence at 2220 E Parkway Drive (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to accept the manager's and financial reports, discuss old business including capital improvement updates and hangar repairs, and consider new items such as a special aircraft landing, low-lead fuel, and hangar sub-leases. The agenda includes detailed fuel sales and accounts receivable figures.

• YTD total fuel sales: 36,336.8 gallons, $175,450.02
• Accounts receivable aging: $13,310.71 (0-30 days), $456.71 (>90 days)
• Hangar occupancy: City enclosed 100%, shade 65%, private 100%
• Hangar waiting list: 8 aircraft
• New business: 48N48 landing at KRUE on June 4, low-lead fuel discussion

The Commission unanimously approved the previous meeting minutes and the manager's report. Members discussed flooring repairs for Hangar 1 West, noting costs have risen from an original $17,000 bid to an estimated $32,000-$36,000. Seth Lake resigned from the Commission effective immediately.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Manager's Report (Unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Seth Lake

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission met to approve minutes and discuss upcoming police department hiring and promotion processes. They scheduled a written test for new police officer applicants on June 8th, physical agility testing and interviews on June 10th, and promotional interview panels for lieutenant and captain on June 13th. The commission also discussed online testing for new applicants and received a report on the new online promotional testing.

• New hire written test for police officers: June 8, 8 a.m. at police department
• Physical agility test and interviews for new officers: June 10, 8 a.m. at police training range
• Promotional interview panels for lieutenant and captain: June 13, 8:30 a.m.
• Discussion on securing online testing for new applicants
• Report on online promotional testing for captain and lieutenant

The Commission approved the April 18, 2023, meeting minutes. Members scheduled written tests, physical agility testing, and interviews for new police hires and promotional lists for lieutenant and captain positions.

• Approved April 18, 2023 minutes
• Scheduled new hire police written test for June 8
• Scheduled police physical agility testing and interviews for June 10
• Scheduled promotional interview panels for lieutenant and captain for June 13

City Council

The council will consider several fund appropriations for employee stipends and airport improvements. The agenda also includes multiple ordinances regarding zoning changes, building permit fees, and a potential annexation election.

• $27,989.00 appropriation for Street Fund employee stipends
• $194,910 appropriation for airport runway remarking and apron improvements
• $210,685.88 appropriation for General Fund department employee stipends
• $15,000 reimbursement request from Main Street Russellville
• Rezoning of 3300 Bernice Ave from R-2/M-2 to M-1

The City Council approved several appropriations for employee stipends, airport runway and apron projects, and a contract for cemetery cornerstones. The council also adopted an ordinance codifying Arkansas State Codes and associated permit fees into city code.

• Approved contract with McGee Monument Co. Inc. for 55 Oakland Cemetery cornerstones (8-0)
• Appropriated $27,989 for Street Fund employee June 1st stipends (8-0)
• Appropriated $194,910 for airport runway remarking and apron improvements (8-0)
• Appropriated $210,685.88 for General Fund department June 1st stipends (8-0)
• Approved $15,000 reimbursement for Main Street Russellville Q2 expenses (8-0)
• Accepted lowest responsible bid for Schoolhouse Trails Project, Ph. 2 (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2450 codifying Arkansas State Codes into city code (8-0)
• Approved permit and review fees associated with Arkansas State Codes (8-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission will meet to approve minutes, review the April financial report, and reschedule a workshop that was rained out on May 6. They will also get updates on the security lighting project and the plot marker project. Public comments are welcome.

• Approval of minutes from April 18, 2023 meeting
• Financial report for month ending April 30, 2023
• Reschedule rained-out workshop to May 27, June 17, June 24, or July 1
• Update on Security Lighting Project in Mary Rye Campbell Addition and Memorial Garden Addition
• Update on Plot Marker Project in Campbell Addition

The Commission approved the April 18, 2023 meeting minutes and scheduled a rescheduled Spring Workshop Day for May 27. The meeting included a financial report showing a $117,144.18 balance in the operating account at Centennial Bank.

• Approved April 18, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled Spring Workshop Day for May 27 (unanimous)

Recreation & Parks Commission

The Russellville Recreation and Parks Commission is meeting to approve the previous meeting's minutes and receive updates on several parks and recreation projects. The agenda includes updates on the West 2nd Street Trail Connection, Schoolhouse Trail, City Park, M.J. Hickey Pool, A.D.A. Fishing Piers, Pine Knob Bike Park, and the Aquatic Center. No old business is listed, and the meeting will also include a monthly report and upcoming events.

• Approval of minutes from March 9, 2023
• West 2nd Street Trail Connection update
• M.J. Hickey Pool update
• A.D.A. Fishing Piers update
• Aquatic Center update

The commission expressed unanimous support for applying for an 80/20 ArDOT grant to fund the Bradley Street/2" Street trail connection. The board also approved the minutes from the March 9, 2023, meeting.

• Approved minutes from 3-9-23 meeting
• Supported application for ArDOT grant for Bradley Street/2" Street trail connection (estimated $750,000)

City Council

The City Council will consider resolutions regarding airport reconstruction design and runway remarking. The meeting also includes discussions on utilizing federal funds for the Downtown Connector to Schoolhouse project and depositing $25,000.00 for legal expenses related to property acquisition.

• Grant application for Russellville Regional Airport apron reconstruction and runway remarking
• Deposit of $25,000.00 from Friends of the Latimore Tourist Home for City Attorney litigation expenses
• Use of federal funds for the Downtown Connector to Schoolhouse project

The City Council approved three resolutions regarding airport improvements, legal funding for property acquisition, and transportation program funds for a downtown project.

• Approved Resolution No. 2146 to apply for and accept a grant for Russellville Regional Airport apron reconstruction design and runway remarking (7-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2147 to deposit $25,000.00 from Friends of the Latimore Tourist Home for City Attorney litigation expenses related to eminent domain acquisition (7-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2148 to utilize Federal Aid Transportation Alternatives Program or Recreational Trials Program funds for the Downtown Connector to Schoolhouse Project (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission unanimously approved three rezoning applications: two along Bernice Ave and S Frankfort Ave from R-2/M-2 to M-1, and one at 3036 E 16th Street from R-3 to M-1. They also approved a vacation of right-of-way portions on N Greenwich Ave and East E Street. All items were forwarded to City Council with recommendations of approval.

• Approved rezoning 3300 Bernice Ave from R-2/M-2 to M-1 (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning along S Frankfort Ave from R-2 to M-1 (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 3036 E 16th Street from R-3 to M-1 (unanimous)
• Approved vacation of right-of-way portions on N Greenwich Ave and East E Street (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting to consider four variance requests from city zoning rules. The board will vote on each request after hearing from applicants. No old business is listed.

• Variance to allow a 6-foot front yard fence despite 3.5-foot height limit (Wetzel)
• Variance for 5-foot reduction in front yard setback, allowing 20-foot setback (Palmer)
• Variance from privacy fence requirement (MARVA Workshop)
• Variance from Commercial Building Design requirements (Quick Truck Wash)

The Board of Adjustment approved three variance requests and denied none. A 6-foot front-yard fence at 9 Pleasant Hills Drive was allowed despite the 3.5-foot limit, replacing a storm-damaged fence. A 20-foot front-yard setback at 401 Mountain View Court was granted due to unique lot shape. A privacy fence requirement for MARVA Workshop at 1205 S Arkansas Ave was waived, citing safety concerns for clients with disabilities. A commercial building design variance for Quick Truck Wash at 43 Interstate Drive was also approved. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 6-foot front-yard fence variance at 9 Pleasant Hills Drive (unanimous)
• Approved 20-foot front-yard setback variance at 401 Mountain View Court (unanimous)
• Approved privacy fence variance for MARVA Workshop at 1205 S Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Approved commercial building design variance for Quick Truck Wash at 43 Interstate Drive (unanimous)

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission is meeting to review a certificate of appropriateness for a new sign at Burrito Bank, receive updates on the Downtown Entertainment District and several historic preservation projects, and discuss involvement in selecting a provider for National Register work on the Old Town Neighborhood Historic District. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, staff approvals, and planning for an ice cream social.

• COA review for a 24x50 inch sign for Burrito Bank at 216 W. Main Street (The Jenkins Building), requested by Salih (Johnny) Kanuk
• Update on the Downtown Entertainment District
• Discussion of RFQ recipients for National Register work on the Old Town Neighborhood Historic District and whether the HDC will be involved in selection
• Report on Latimore Tourist Home Phase Ib
• Report on staff approvals since the last HDC meeting

The Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a business sign. Members also discussed the selection process for a consultant to handle the Old Town Neighborhood's National Register of Historic Places nomination.

• Approved COA for 24 X 50 inch painted metal sign for Burrito Bank (voice vote)
• Approved March 23, 2023 meeting minutes (voice vote)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the manager's report on fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old business including capital improvement projects, a hangar door grant, and taxiway crack sealing. New business includes a skydiving event, a lien, a new employee, and facility tours.

• Jet-A sales: 14,438 gallons ($67,922.94); AVGAS: 10,103.7 gallons ($50,582.97) through April 2023
• Accounts receivable aging for March 2023: $16,096.76 (0-30 days), $3,997.15 (31-60 days), $72.21 (61-90 days), $611.93 (>90 days)
• Hangar occupancy: 87.5% city hangars, 100% enclosed, 75% shade, 100% private; waiting list: 8 aircraft
• Old business: CIP update, hangar door grant, Taxiway Alpha crack seal, Hangar 1 West flooring, Hangar 5 East flooding
• New business: skydiving May 5-7 with Balloon Festival, lien, new employee Justus Smith, MARVA and Leadership Academy tours, Gumball Vending, Facebook page

The Airport Advisory Commission accepted the previous meeting minutes and the manager's report. The commission reviewed fuel sales, hangar occupancy, and updates on various infrastructure projects.

• Accepted meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Accepted Manager's Report (Unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review an ordinance to codify building, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing permit fees. The meeting also includes discussions on fund appropriations for 911 expenses and the final reading of a downtown entertainment district ordinance.

• Ordinance to adopt and codify permit and review fees for building, electrical, plumbing, and more
• Third and final reading of an ordinance to establish a permanent Downtown Entertainment District
• Appropriation of $225,176 from the General Fund to provide additional funding for 2023 911 expenses
• Appropriation of $100,000 to replenish the Capital Asset Fund Building Costs Budget
• Reimbursement requests for Alliance Work Force Development ($28,498.35) and Arkansas Valley Alliance ($25,326.58)

The City Council approved the creation of a permanent entertainment district in downtown Russellville. The council also approved several fund appropriations for police, EMS, and 911 expenses, and nominated two members to the Parks and Rec Commission.

• Established a Permanent Entertainment District in Downtown Russellville (7-0)
• Nominated Joshua Holmes and Nick Ouzts to the Parks and Rec Commission (7-0)
• Approved $225,176 from 2022 carry over for 2023 911 expenses (7-0)
• Approved $100,000 from 2022 carry over to replenish Capital Asset Fund Building Costs (7-0)
• Approved $25,000 from 2022 carry over for temporary RPD staff (7-0)
• Approved $8,302.03 from EMS Services Fund for ambulance graphics (7-0)
• Approved reimbursement requests for Alliance Work Force Development ($28,498.35), Arkansas Valley Alliance ($25,326.58), and Boys and Girls Club ($24,395.81) (7-0)
• Adopted Police Non-Uniformed Restructure Proposal regarding job descriptions and pay (7-0)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission will meet to approve minutes from its February 28, 2023 meeting. The Fire Department will discuss suspending the competitive hiring process to bring on a new paramedic engineer. The Police Department will discuss holding promotion testing and new-hire written testing on May 11, using a new video format for promotions.

• Approve minutes of February 28, 2023 meeting
• Discuss suspension of competition and hiring of a new paramedic engineer
• May 11 promotion testing with new video format
• May 11 new hire written testing, goal to do both at same time

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Commission approved the installation of 55 stone markers in the Mary Rye Campbell Addition to establish survey lines for grave space sales. The project will be funded using Cemetery Improvement Funds. The board also approved the March 21, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Approved installation of 55 stone markers for $3,300 (Unanimous)
• Approved March 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

City Council

The Russellville City Council will meet to consider a four-year appointment to the A & P Commission. The council will also consider a resolution to move the Oakland Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Fund from Bank OZK to Centennial.

• Four-year appointment of John Raders to the A & P Commission
• Resolution to move Oakland Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Fund from Bank OZK to Centennial

The City Council appointed John Raders to the A&P Commission for a four-year term. The Council also authorized the transfer of the Oakland Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Fund from Bank OZK to Centennial Bank.

• Approved appointment of John Raders to a four-year term on the A&P Commission (8-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2144 to transfer Oakland Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Fund from Bank OZK to Centennial Bank (8-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting to consider two variance requests. One asks to allow an 8-foot fence where the limit is 6 feet, and the other seeks relief from a privacy fence requirement. No old business is listed.

• Variance from Article 4.1 for an 8' fence despite 6' height limit, submitted by Eric Gjerstad (VARI-0323-000345)
• Variance from Article 4.3 for relief from privacy fence requirement, submitted by Barrett & Associates for Arkansas Tech University on behalf of Pope County EMS (VARI-0323-000337)

The Board of Adjustment approved a request for an 8-foot fence at a residential property to protect a garden from deer. The Board also approved a variance from privacy fence requirements for the new Pope County EMS facility.

• Approved variance for 8-foot fence at 304 Barborek Lane (unanimous)
• Approved variance from privacy fence requirement for Pope County EMS at 1850 N Arkansas Ave (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting on April 6, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The agenda includes approval of the March 2, 2023 minutes and two new business items: proposed changes to the Russellville Zoning Code and the Land Subdivision and Development Code, both submitted by the City of Russellville. No old business is listed.

• Zone Text Amendment to adopt proposed changes to the Russellville Zoning Code (ZONE-0323-000343)
• Zone Text Amendment to adopt proposed changes to the Land Subdivision and Development Code (ZONE-0323-000344)
• Approval of minutes from March 2, 2023

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a series of text amendments to the Russellville Zoning Code and Land Subdivision and Development Code. These updates, recommended by the Long Range Planning Committee, will be forwarded to the City Council for final approval.

• Approved Zoning Code updates regarding width requirements, fence heights, grading permits, parking lot landscaping, perimeter buffer waivers, and permitted uses for Cement Asphalt and Concrete in M1 zones (Unanimous)
• Approved Land Subdivision and Development Code updates regarding lot setback wording, multi-family subdivision fence materials, and removal of duplicate sentences (Unanimous)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission met on March 28, 2023, and approved the February minutes with a name correction. They discussed and decided on changes to the police department's new hire process, including keeping the application process open and setting a monthly written test date. The commission also noted the date for lieutenant promotional testing.

• Approved February 28, 2023 minutes with correction: Tyler Brown changed to Tyler Bower
• Set lieutenant promotional testing for Thursday, May 11, using a video-based format
• Decided to keep police application process open and set written tests for the second Thursday of each month, starting May 11
• Discussed suggested changes to police new hire process, including application, testing order/frequency, and legal notice

The Commission established a monthly written testing schedule for police applicants and set a date for Lieutenant promotional testing. The body also approved the February 28, 2023, meeting minutes with a name correction.

• Approved February 28, 2023 minutes as corrected
• Set Lieutenant promotional testing for May 11
• Decided to keep the police department application process open
• Established written tests for the second Thursday of each month starting May 11

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Board is meeting to review the airport manager's report, including fuel sales and accounts receivable, and to discuss old and new business items. Old business includes updates on capital improvement projects, a hangar door grant, taxiway crack sealing, hangar flooring and flooding issues, and eclipse planning. New business includes an upcoming FAA compliance inspection scheduled for late June 2023.

• Jet-A fuel sales: 9,438.03 gallons ($45,797.78) through March 24, 2023
• AVGAS fuel sales: 8,797 gallons ($43,772.01) through March 24, 2023
• Accounts receivable aging: $10,323.63 (0-30 days), $861.10 (31-60 days), $236.37 (61-90 days), $540.00 (>90 days)
• City hangar occupancy: 87.5% overall, 100% enclosed, 75% shade, 100% private
• FAA compliance inspection scheduled for late June 2023

The board unanimously accepted the meeting minutes and approved the financial and manager's reports. Members discussed upcoming runway remarking bids and planning for an estimated 200 aircraft arriving for the total eclipse.

• Approved meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Manager's and Financial reports (Unanimous)

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission is meeting to review a Certificate of Appropriateness for electric vehicle charging stations in the city right-of-way on the 200 block of South Denver Avenue, part of the DIG Russellville Project. The commission will also elect officers for the coming year, handle commissioner reappointments, and receive reports on the Latimore Tourist Home Phase Ib and Old Town Neighborhood projects.

• COA review for EV charging stations on 200 block of South Denver Avenue
• Election of officers for the coming year
• Commissioner reappointments
• Report on Latimore Tourist Home Phase Ib
• Report on Old Town Neighborhood

The commission granted preliminary approval for the installation of six Level 2 wall chargers in the City Right-of-Way as part of the DIG Russellville Project. The board also re-elected its current officers and noted the receipt of a $10,100 CLG Grant for the Old Town Neighborhood Historic District nomination.

• Granted preliminary approval for six Level 2 wall chargers on N. Denver Avenue (voice vote)
• Re-elected Betsy McGuire as President, Leo Cantu as Vice-President, and Judy Galloway as Secretary (voice vote)
• Approved January 26, 2023 meeting minutes (voice vote)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting to handle routine business and one new item. They will approve February meeting minutes, review the financial report, and finalize plans for the Spring Workshop Day on April 22. The main new business is a proposal to rent a portable restroom for about four months during mowing season for the grounds crew.

• Approval of February 21, 2023 meeting minutes
• Financial report for month ending February 28, 2022
• Spring Workshop Day set for Saturday, April 22, 2023, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
• Discussion of portable restroom rental for approximately 4 months for grounds crew

The Commission approved the monthly rental of a portable facility for ground maintenance crews during the mowing season. Members also reviewed the February 2023 financial report and coordinated the Spring Workshop/Decoration event.

• Approved monthly rental of portable facility from Murdock Portable Toilets and Septic Service at $102 per month plus tax (Unanimous)
• Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

City Council

The Russellville City Council is meeting to consider several resolutions and appropriations, including a $100,000 agreement with the Boys & Girls Club, a bid for the South Knoxville Sidewalk Project, and multiple fund transfers for parks, pool, and printer purchases. They will also hold the second reading of an ordinance to establish a permanent entertainment district downtown and consider a resolution to demolish or rehabilitate a dilapidated structure. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and financial reports.

• Resolution to enter into $100,000 agreement with L.V. Williamson Boys & Girls Club for 2023 services
• Resolution to accept bid from Bowden Specialties for South Knoxville Sidewalk Project
• Ordinance to establish permanent entertainment district in downtown Russellville (second of three readings)
• Resolution to require rehabilitation or removal of dilapidated structure at 3705 East 6th Street
• Appropriations: $30,000 for Boys & Girls Club, $26,960.04 for Hickey Pool epoxy flooring, $39,970.73 for City Park improvements

The City Council approved several budget appropriations for public safety, parks, and court staffing. They also advanced an ordinance to establish a permanent entertainment district in downtown Russellville and authorized a dilapidated structure's removal at 3705 East 6th Street.

• Approved $21,034.32 for a Probation Clerk and $21,034.32 for an Accounting Clerk (7-0)
• Approved $15,372.49 for eight AEDs for city offices (7-0)
• Approved $13,367.00 to replace a totaled RPD Dodge Charger (7-0)
• Approved $100,000.00 agreement with Boys & Girls Club and an additional $30,000 appropriation (7-0)
• Approved $73,261.04 for parks improvements including Schoolhouse Trail, Hickey Pool, and City Park (7-0)
• Approved $31,577.44 for network printers for RPD, City Attorney, and District Court (7-0)
• Approved removal or rehabilitation of dilapidated structure at 3705 East 6th Street (7-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance to establish Downtown Entertainment District (7-0)

Recreation & Parks Commission

The Russellville Recreation and Parks Commission is meeting to discuss new business items, including the Ozark Tennis Academy and the James School Park Master Plan, as well as elect a commission chairman and consider recommendations for commissioners. Updates will be provided on several park facilities, including the M.J. Hickey Pool, City Park Splash Pad, All-Inclusive Playground, and Pine Knob Bike Park. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no old business listed.

• Discussion of Ozark Tennis Academy
• James School Park Master Plan
• Commission Chairman Election
• Recommendations for Commissioners
• Updates on M.J. Hickey Pool, City Park Splash Pad, All-Inclusive Playground, Pine Knob Bike Park

The commission approved a proposal for the Ozark Tennis Academy to provide children's tennis lessons at City Park. Hank Huggins was elected as the commission chairman for 2023. The commission also reviewed a preliminary master plan for James School Park.

• Approved Ozark Tennis Academy proposal for children's lessons at City Park
• Elected Hank Huggins as commission chairman for 2023
• Approved minutes from 8-11-22 meeting

Airport Commission

The Commission approved the use of one-wheel electric vehicles on ramps and taxiways for movement between the FBO and aircraft hangars. The board also accepted the previous meeting's minutes and the Manager's Report. Other items, including landing fees and fuel flowage fees, were discussed or deferred for future meetings.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Manager's Report (unanimous)
• Approved limited use of one-wheel electric vehicles on ramp and taxiway (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider one new business item: a variance request from the 20-foot setback requirement to allow an 8-foot setback at 505 S Houston Ave, submitted by Friends of the Latimore Tourist Home on behalf of the City. The agenda also includes approval of the February 2, 2023 minutes and routine procedural items.

• Variance from Article 14 for an 8-foot setback instead of the required 20 feet at 505 S Houston Ave (VARI-0223-000332)
• Request submitted by Friends of the Latimore Tourist Home on behalf of the City of Russellville
• Approval of minutes from February 2, 2023

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance for the property at 505 S Houston Ave. This allows the Latimore Tourist Home to be placed 8 feet from the front property line instead of the required 20 feet to preserve its historical context.

• Approved variance for 8-foot setback at 505 S Houston Ave (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The only new business is a public hearing and decision on a special use permit for a storage building and container sales business in a C-2 zone at 3333 S Arkansas Ave. The rest of the agenda is routine: welcoming visitors, approving the prior month's minutes, and noting there is no old business.

• Special Use Permit (SPUP-0223-000331) for storage building and container sales at 3333 S Arkansas Ave, submitted by Harley Mork for Dow Dollar

The Planning Commission approved a special use permit for a storage building and container sales business at 3333 S Arkansas Ave. The approval requires the applicant to provide a drainage report and complete a property boundary verification. Staff also provided updates on a $25 million RAISE Grant application for multi-use trails and upcoming Zoning Code revisions.

• Approved Special Use Permit for storage building and container sales at 3333 S Arkansas Ave (Unanimous)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission approved an updated entry-level police physical agility test layout as an official rule change, discussed changes to the police hiring process, and scheduled interviews. The commission also entered executive session and voted to remove Tyler Bowen from the certified hiring list.

• Approved Appendix 7.0 to Civil Service Commission Rules: Police Department Entry-Level Physical Agility Test Layout
• Set tentative date of May 11 for Lieutenant promotional testing
• Agreed to allow Jason Hedgecock to interview on March 11 after missing February 11 interview
• Discussed suggested changes to police new hire process; no action taken
• Removed Tyler Bowen from Entry Level Policeman Authorized Certified List

The Commission approved a new appendix detailing the police department's entry-level physical agility test. Members also agreed to change the lieutenant promotional test and scheduled new hire testing for March 11.

• Approved January 24, 2023 meeting minutes
• Agreed to change the police lieutenant promotional test
• Adopted rule change for Police Department Entry-Level Physical Agility Test Layout (Appendix 7.0)
• Approved allowing Jason Hedgecock to interview on March 11
• Agreed to conduct new hire testing and interviews on March 11
• Removed Tyler Bowen from the Entry Level Policeman Authorized Certified List

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and a financial report, and to formally welcome a new member. The main new item is an open discussion about increasing the number of seated commissioners from five to seven, which would require a code amendment or city council resolution. The public can address concerns during the meeting.

• Approval of minutes from January 17, 2023 meeting
• Financial report for month ending January 31, 2022
• Welcome of Jami Mullen to the Commission Board
• Discussion on raising seated commissioners from five to seven
• Public comment period

The Commission approved a resolution to change the number of commissioners to a range between 5 and 9. They also scheduled a spring decoration day for April 22, 2023. Other discussions included cemetery security cameras and landscaping updates.

• Approved January 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to change number of Commissioners to a range of not less than 5, not to exceed 9
• Set Spring Decoration Day for Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Commission did not hold any meetings in January or February 2023. The agenda consists solely of a statement noting the absence of meetings during this period, with no items for discussion or decision.

• No meetings held in January 2023
• No meetings held in February 2023

City Council

The Russellville City Council will consider several resolutions and ordinances, including increasing funding for the Boys & Girls Club from $70,000 to $100,000, approving a street overlay project, and establishing a permanent entertainment district downtown. The council will also hold public hearings on liens for nuisance abatement at six properties and consider repealing the breed-specific dog ban.

• Resolution to increase Boys & Girls Club compensation from $70,000 to $100,000 for 2023
• Resolution to use State Aid Street Monies for Russellville East Parkway Overlay Project
• Ordinance to establish permanent entertainment district in downtown Russellville
• Ordinance to repeal breed-specific dog ban (Ordinance No. 1918)
• Public hearings on liens for six properties (e.g., 932 West 3 Street, 407 South Independence Ave.)

The Council approved an emergency ordinance prohibiting aboveground utility and telecommunication lines in designated downtown aesthetic corridors. Other key actions included repealing a ban on specific dog breeds and approving several property liens for nuisance abatement.

• Approved Ordinance No. 2448 prohibiting aboveground utility lines in downtown aesthetic corridors (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2447 repealing the ban on specific dog breeds (6-2)
• Appropriated $54,955 for a Whitewater Park feasibility study (8-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2129 for a fishing pier at Pleasant View Park (8-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2130 for East Parkway Overlay Project state aid (8-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2131 for Latimore Home restoration grant application (8-0)
• Approved six property liens for dilapidated structure removal at various addresses (8-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2138 for a USDOT RAISE Grant for city trails (8-0)

City Council

The Russellville City Council is holding a special called meeting to consider a single item: appropriating $163,167.79 from the 2022 general fund carry-over balance to fund a change order from Clarity Pools for the Hickey Park Pool renovation project. The council will vote on a resolution authorizing the mayor and city clerk-treasurer to approve the change order.

• Appropriation of $163,167.79 from 2022 general fund carry-over balance
• Change order from Clarity Pools for Hickey Park Pool renovation
• Resolution for mayor and city clerk-treasurer to approve the change order

The City Council approved an appropriation and a resolution to fund a change order for the Hickey Park Pool renovation project. The funds were sourced from the 2022 General Fund carry over balance.

• Appropriated $163,167.79 from 2022 Carry Over Balance for Hickey Park Pool renovation change order (7-0)
• Approved resolution for Mayor and City Clerk Treasurer to approve Clarity Pools change order for Hickey Park Pool (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on February 2, 2023. The board will elect officers for 2023 and consider a variance request from Barrett & Associates on behalf of Arkansas Tech University for Pope County EMS to waive sidewalk requirements and allow a larger building footprint at 1850 N Arkansas Ave.

• Election of 2023 officers (chairman, vice chairman, secretary)
• Variance from Article 3.23 and 14 to waive sidewalk requirements and allow larger maximum building footprint at 1850 N Arkansas Ave

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance to allow a larger building footprint for a proposed Pope County EMS facility at 1850 N Arkansas Ave. The Board denied a request to waive sidewalk requirements at the same location.

• Approved variance from Article 14 for larger maximum building footprint at 1850 N Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Denied variance from Article 3.23 to waive sidewalk requirements at 1850 N Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Approved November 29, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Wendell Miller as Chairman, Don Jacimore as Vice-Chairman, and Justin Cothren as Secretary (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily to consider four new items: a special use permit for an auto repair business, and three related requests (special use permit, large scale development, and variance) for a Pope County EMS facility. The agenda includes no old business and is otherwise routine.

• Special Use Permit for auto repair at 2601 W Main Street (Quick and Paintless Inc for Kevin Mize)
• Special Use Permit for Pope County EMS public building at 1850 N Arkansas Ave
• Large Scale Development at 1850 N Arkansas Ave for Pope County EMS
• Variance from Half Street Improvements and Article 1.9 at 1850 N Arkansas Ave

The Commission approved a Special Use Permit for an auto repair business and a new Pope County EMS facility. The EMS project includes a Large Scale Development approval and a variance for property boundary verification, though a request to waive street improvements was denied.

• Approved Special Use Permit for auto repair at 2601 W Main Street with condition to close eastern driveway (Unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Pope County EMS at 1850 N Arkansas Ave with condition to accept sidewalk in-lieu payment (Unanimous)
• Approved Large Scale Development for Pope County EMS facility with drainage and right-of-way conditions (Unanimous)
• Approved variance from Metes and Bounds requirements for 1850 N Arkansas Ave (Unanimous)
• Denied variance from Half Street Improvements requirements for 1850 N Arkansas Ave (Unanimous)

Russellville Historic District Commission

The commission approved the reappointment of Suzanne Alford and Steve Newby and appointed Dr. Kelly Jones as a new commissioner. The body also voted to move its meeting start time back to 5:00 PM. Staff reported on the status of the Latimore Tourist Home and the Old Town Neighborhood Historic District voting process.

• Approved reappointments of commissioners Suzanne Alford and Steve Newby (voice vote)
• Approved appointment of Dr. Kelly Jones as commissioner (voice vote)
• Approved changing meeting time to 5:00 PM (voice vote)
• Approved October 24, 2022 meeting minutes (voice vote)

Civil Service Commission

The Russellville Civil Service Commission approved the hiring of certified officer Josh Foshee, adopted changes to fire department promotion requirements, and elected a new chairman. The commission also scheduled entry-level testing and discussed a tentative date for lieutenant promotional testing.

• Approved hiring certified officer Josh Foshee via suspension of competition
• Adopted changes to Fire Department Promotion Requirements (Appendix 2.0) including extra credit for Paramedic certificate
• Approved second reading of Police Department Entry-Level Physical Agility Test Layout (Appendix 7.0)
• Scheduled entry-level testing for February 4 and 11
• Elected Mark Lykins as new chairman

The Civil Service Commission approved the hiring of certified officer Josh Foshee and updated rules regarding police agility tests and fire department promotion requirements. The commission also elected Mark Lykins as the new Chairman.

• Approved minutes of October 25, 2022
• Approved hiring of certified officer Josh Foshee
• Approved second reading of Police Department Entry-Level Physical Agility Test Layout (Appendix 7.0)
• Approved third reading and adoption of Fire Department Promotion Requirements changes (Appendix 2.0)
• Elected Mark Lykins as Chairman of the Commission

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Commission agenda states that no meetings are scheduled for January or February 2023. This is a procedural notice only, with no items for discussion or decision.

City Council

The Russellville City Council meets to consider a revised animal control code that repeals the ban on specific dog breeds. The agenda includes public hearings to vacate portions of North Hartford right-of-way and a utility easement in Marina Heights. Additionally, the council will approve several budget revisions, including a $750,000 transfer to the emergency reserve and grants for police equipment.

• Ordinance adopting a revised City Animal Control Code and repealing Ordinance No. 1918 (ban on specific dog breeds)
• Public hearing to vacate 15 feet of North Hartford right-of-way along Lot 7, Block 3, JL Shinn Addition
• Public hearing to vacate a 10-foot utility easement west and north of Lot 56, Marina Heights
• Resolution transferring $750,000 from the General Fund to the Emergency Reserve
• Resolution authorizing engineering plans to replace traffic signals at Main Street and Arkansas Avenue

The City Council approved several commission appointments and authorized various fund transfers and appropriations for police equipment, park improvements, and new staff positions. The council also approved two right-of-way abandonments and special use permits for convenience stores.

• Approved appointments to Recreation and Parks, Oakland Cemetery, A&P, Board of Adjustment, and Civil Service commissions (8-0)
• Approved Resolution 2119 to transfer $750,000 from General Fund to Emergency Reserve (8-0)
• Approved $32,486 for a pavilion at Confederate Mothers Park (8-0)
• Approved $18,000 for ADA fishing piers at Pleasant View Park (8-0)
• Approved funding for new Grant Administrator and Accounting Clerk/Receptionist positions (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2445 to vacate 15 feet of North Hartford right-of-way (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2446 to vacate a 10-foot utility easement at Marina Heights (8-0)
• Approved special use permits for convenience stores at 1600 S Elmira Ave and 4100 N Arkansas Ave (8-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving December minutes, reviewing the December 2022 financial report, and hearing public comments. They will also consider a new commissioner nomination and elect officers for 2023.

• Approval of minutes from December 13, 2022 meeting
• Financial report for month ending December 31, 2022
• Nomination of Jami Smith Mullen to fill seat vacated by Rebecca Howell (4-year term)
• Selection of officers for 2023 term
• Public comment period

The commission approved the December 13, 2022 meeting minutes and elected its officers for the 2023 session. Members discussed the potential for lighting and cameras to prevent vandalism, with costs to be presented at the next meeting.

• Approved December 13, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Mindy Hudson as Chairperson for 2023
• Approved Mary Schwartz as Vice Chairperson for 2023
• Approved Jami Mullen as Secretary for 2023 (pending City Council appointment)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will hold its regular monthly meeting on January 5, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The board will consider three variance requests, including one to withdraw a previously submitted variance, and will elect officers for 2023.

• Withdrawal of variance for addition to non-conforming structure at 1109 Parker Road (VARI-1022-000288)
• Variance for 8-foot fence in rear yard at 2307 W 8th St (VARI-1222-000317)
• Variance to waive sidewalk requirements and reduce parking (VARI-1222-000316)
• Election of officers for 2023

The Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests for property modifications and waived sidewalk requirements for a new office building. The board also approved the previous meeting's minutes and tabled the election of officers.

• Approved minutes from November 29, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved request to withdraw variance for 1109 Parker Road (unanimous)
• Tabled election of 2023 officers until next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 7.5-foot fence at 2307 W 8th St (unanimous)
• Approved variance to waive sidewalk requirements at 5177 Hwy 64 West (unanimous)
• Approved 42% reduction in required parking spots at 5177 Hwy 64 West (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting to consider old and new business, including a request to withdraw a special use permit for a junkyard, elect officers for 2023, and review a large-scale development and two special use permits for convenience stores with fuel sales.

• Request to withdraw special use permit for automobile wrecking/salvage/junkyard at 4320 E Main St (SPUP-0922-000276)
• Large scale development at 5177 US Highway 64 West (LSDV-1222-000315)
• Special use permit for convenience store with fuel sales at 1600 S Elmira Ave (SPUP-1222-000319)
• Special use permit for convenience store with fuel sales at 1100 N Arkansas Ave (SPUP-1222-000318)

The Commission approved a large-scale development for a farm credit training facility and issued special use permits for two convenience stores with fuel sales. The board also re-elected its officers and recommended an appointment to the Board of Adjustment.

• Approved large-scale development for Farm Credit Services of Western Arkansas training facility (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Special Use Permit for convenience store with fuel sales at 1600 S Elmira Ave (Unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for convenience store with fuel sales at 1100 N Arkansas Ave (Unanimous)
• Approved request to withdraw Special Use Permit for automobile wrecking/salvage yard at 4320 E Main St (Unanimous)
• Re-elected 2023 officers as presented (Unanimous)
• Approved Mayor's recommendation to appoint Josh Stroud to the Board of Adjustment (Unanimous)

City Council

The Russellville City Council is holding a special called meeting to consider two resolutions: one to remove the former mayor's name from city bank accounts and credit cards, and another to adopt the 2023 Rules of Procedure and Standing Rules. The agenda also includes assigning committee and liaison roles for the year. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Resolution to change bank account and credit card names to remove former mayor's name
• Resolution to approve 2023 Rules of Procedure and Standing Rules
• 2023 Committee and Liaison assignments
• Schedule for Finance Committee and City Council meetings in January 2023

The City Council updated the names on city bank accounts and credit cards to remove the former mayor. Council also approved the 2023 Rules of Procedure and Standing Rules with an amendment to the Planning and Development reporting requirements. Committee and liaison assignments for 2023 were selected.

• Approved resolution to remove former mayor's name from city bank accounts and credit cards (8-0)
• Approved amendment to Paragraph (c) regarding Department of Planning and Development reports (7-1)
• Approved 2023 Rules of Procedure and Standing Rules as amended (8-0)
• Selected 2023 Committee & Liaisons Assignments