Russellville public meetings in 2025

City Council

The City Council will discuss the adoption of the 2026 General Fund and Special Funds budgets. The meeting includes considerations for a trail system grant and appointments to city boards. Members will also review a zoning code amendment and a rights-of-way dedication for the Hunt Estates subdivision.

• Reimbursement of $53,076.17 for Alliance for Economic Development 4th Quarter expenses
• Resolution for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block (EECBG) Grant for the Russellville Connected Trail System
• Ordinance amending the current City of Russellville Zoning Code
• Ordinance accepting rights-of-ways and easements for the Hunt Estates Minor Subdivision
• Appointments of Francis Lewis and Sean Wojtek to Airport Commissioners and Jerry Bradford to the City Corp Board

The Russellville City Council approved the November 20 minutes and confirmed several appointments, including two members to the Airport Commission and one to the City Corp Board. It adopted resolutions authorizing an EECBG grant, amending the 2026 General Fund budget, and adopting the 2026 Special Funds budgets. The council also passed a zoning‑code amendment and a dedication of rights‑of‑way for the Hunt Estates subdivision.

• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (voice vote 8-0)
• Approved appointments of Francis Lewis and Sean Wojtek to the Airport Commission (voice vote 8-0)
• Approved appointment of Jerry Bradford to the City Corp Board (voice vote 8-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2387 authorizing the EECBG grant agreement (voice vote 8-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2388 amending the General Fund budget for FY 2026 (voice vote 8-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2389 adopting Special Funds budgets for FY 2026 (voice vote 8-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2443 amending the city zoning code (roll call vote 8-0)
• Approved ordinance dedicating rights‑of‑way for Hunt Estates subdivision (roll call vote 8-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission will meet to review the annual year-end report and the November 2025 financial status. The board will also discuss cemetery maintenance and county access to the ossuary.

• Approval of November 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• November 2025 financial report status update
• Update on tree plantings and fence damages/repairs
• Update on County access to the ossuary
• Presentation of the Annual Year End Report

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission will review a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for the Federal Building and reconsider a door installation. The body will also establish its 2026 meeting schedule.

• Review of COA for Federal Building at 115 S. Denver Avenue
• Reconsideration of door installation at 203 N. Commerce Avenue
• Determination of 2026 meeting schedule
• Report on CAMP training held December 6, 2025

The commission approved the doors installed by John Paul Davis at 203 N. Commerce Avenue, with one dissenting vote. It also approved the revised Certificate of Appropriateness for the Federal Building at 115 S. Denver Avenue by voice vote. The commission adopted revised meeting dates for 2026, moving July to July 30, October to October 29, and confirming November 17 and December 15 meetings. The meeting minutes from October 23, 2025 were accepted by voice vote and the session adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved minutes from October 23, 2025 (voice vote)
• Approved doors at 203 N. Commerce Ave (8-1 vote)
• Approved revised COA for Federal Building at 115 S. Denver Ave (voice vote)
• Rescheduled July 2026 meeting to Thursday, July 30 (decision adopted)
• Rescheduled October 2026 meeting to Monday, October 29 (decision adopted)
• Set November 2026 meeting for Thursday, November 17 (decision adopted)
• Set December 2026 meeting for Thursday, December 15 (decision adopted)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:06 PM (voice vote)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will meet to review a variance request. The board will consider changes to parking layout and landscaping requirements for a specific property.

• Variance request (VARI-0825-000665) for parking layout and landscaping at 916 N Arkansas Ave submitted by Braum’s Inc.

The board approved the November 6, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. It also approved the variance request (VAR-0825-000665) for 916 N Arkansas Avenue, permitting a revised parking layout, a reduced street‑frontage buffer, and shrub substitution for trees, with conditions, also by unanimous vote.

• Approved November 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance request VAR-0825-000665 for 916 N Arkansas Ave with conditions (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will meet on Dec 2, 2025 to review several special use permit applications and a minor subdivision proposal. Items include a day‑care home in an R‑1 zone, a drive‑through restaurant in a C‑4 zone, a minor subdivision at Hunt Estates, a preliminary plat for Wynnwood Gardens, and a proposed amendment to the city’s zoning and land subdivision development code. The commission will decide whether to approve each application and adopt the code amendment.

• Special Use Permit for a day‑care family home at 5920 N Arkansas Ave (R‑1 zone) (SPUP‑1025‑000679)
• Special Use Permit for a drive‑through restaurant at 916 N Arkansas Ave (C‑4 zone) (SPUP‑1125‑000693)
• Minor subdivision application for Hunt Estates at 111 Amy Lynn Place (ISUB‑1025‑000682)
• Preliminary plat for Wynnwood Gardens on the 1100 block of S Vancouver (PLAT‑1025‑000680)
• Zone Text Amendment to adopt changes to the Russellville Zoning Code and Land Subdivision Development Code (ZONE‑1125‑000691)

The commission approved the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously approved a Special Use Permit for a Day Care Family Home at 5920 N Arkansas Ave. It also unanimously approved a Special Use Permit for a Drive‑Through Restaurant at 916 N Arkansas Ave. Finally, the commission unanimously approved a Minor Subdivision for Hunt Estates at 111 Amy Lynn Place.

• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Day Care Family Home at 5920 N Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Drive‑Through Restaurant at 916 N Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Minor Subdivision for Hunt Estates at 111 Amy Lynn Place (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission will accept last month's minutes, review the manager's financial report including October fuel sales and receivable aging, discuss the Krue Project update, and hold interviews for commissioner candidates. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Accept last month's minutes
• October 2025 Jet‑A sales: 8,792 gallons ($33,128.94)
• October 2025 AVGAS sales: 3,340.65 gallons ($15,433.04)
• Krue Project update (old business)
• Commissioner candidate interviews (new business)

The commission approved the previous month's minutes and the manager's financial report, both by unanimous vote. Commissioners voted unanimously to select Zach Wojtek and Francis Lewis for open commissioner positions. The December meeting was cancelled and a Christmas party was scheduled for December 19.

• Accepted last month's minutes (motion passed)
• Approved manager's report (unanimous)
• Selected Zach Wojtek and Francis Lewis as commissioners (unanimous)
• Cancelled December meeting; scheduled Christmas party on Dec 19

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will approve the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting. It will review the Engineer promotional list and note that an engineer test was given to Micah Piker in December due to a military order conflict. The Police Department reports no new business. The commission will discuss the trial for dismissal of Brian Chandler.

• Approve minutes of the October 28, 2025 meeting
• Review Engineer promotional list
• Reminder: engineer test given to Micah Piker in December due to military order conflict
• Discuss trial for dismissal of Brian Chandler

The commission reviewed the October 28, 2025 minutes and noted an error that David Jackson is no longer serving. Commissioner Bachman moved to accept the minutes as corrected, and Commissioner Brown seconded the motion. The council voted to approve the corrected minutes. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved corrected October 28 minutes (vote passed)

City Council

The Russellville City Council will adopt the 2026 General Fund Budget and the 2026 Street Fund Budget. It will also consider several appropriations, including $429,088.63 for five police SUVs and $213,361 for maintenance of seven airport hangar roofs. Additional items include winter stipend appropriations for employee salaries and a resolution to increase employee health savings account contributions.

• Adopt 2026 General Fund Budget (sponsored by Mayor and Finance Department)
• Adopt 2026 Street Fund Budget (sponsored by Mayor and Finance Department)
• Appropriation of $429,088.63 from the 2021 Sales Tax Capital Fund to purchase and equip five police SUVs
• Appropriation of $213,361 from the Economic Development / Capital Fund for maintenance of seven Russellville Municipal Airport hangar roofs
• Appropriation of $213,008.75 from the General Fund Carryover Balance for a winter stipend covering salaries and FICA for General Fund department employees

The council approved the October 7 and 16, 2025 meeting minutes and a $34,572.48 reimbursement to the Boys & Girls Club. It adopted the 2026 General Fund and Street Fund budgets, approved a $429,088.63 purchase of five police SUVs, and funded airport hangar roof repairs and EMS training. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved October 7 & 16, 2025 minutes (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $34,572.48 reimbursement to Boys & Girls Club (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted 2026 General Fund Budget (Resolution No. 2385) (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted 2026 Street Fund Budget (Resolution No. 2386) (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $429,088.63 to purchase and equip five police SUVs (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $213,361 for maintenance of seven airport hangar roofs (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $6,600 for EMS Services Fund training of RPD & RFD handlers (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2548 amending Land Subdivision and Development Code (roll call vote 7-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Russellville Oakland Cemetery Commission will approve the minutes from its October 21, 2025 meeting and receive a financial report for October 2025. The board will receive updates on tree plantings, fence repairs, and the results of a November 15 workshop. It will also discuss a proposal to add an ossuary within the Columbarium for use by the County Coroner’s Office and consider community service recognitions.

• Approval of minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting
• Financial report for October 2025
• Update on tree plantings and fence damages/repairs
• Discussion of a proposal for an ossuary within the Columbarium for the County Coroner’s Office
• Discussion of possible community service recognitions

The Oakland Cemetery Commission approved a funding increase to $5,086.70 for additional landscaping work. It also approved the creation of a Community Service Recognition awards program for workshop volunteers. The proposal to add an ossuary for unclaimed cremated remains was tabled for future discussion. The minutes from the October 21 meeting were accepted.

• Approved increase of landscaping funding to $5,086.70
• Approved Community Service Recognition awards program
• Tabled ossuary proposal for unclaimed cremated remains
• Approved October 21, 2025 meeting minutes

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will review a staff request to remove a previously scheduled variance for the Lawrence property at 522 S Jonesboro Ave. It will also discuss a new variance request to allow a 7‑foot fence, exceeding the 6‑foot limit, submitted by Andy and Shirley Hatley. The meeting includes approval of the October 2, 2025 minutes.

• Request to remove from agenda the variance for 522 S Jonesboro Ave (Bill and Dorris Lawrence)
• New variance request to allow a 7‑foot fence for Andy and Shirley Hatley (Article 4.1)
• Approval of minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously removed agenda item VARI-0725-000651 concerning a fence‑height variance at 522 S. Jonesboro Ave. Finally, the Board unanimously approved variance VARI-1025-000678 to allow a 7‑foot fence at 1205 S. Houston Ave with conditions on fence placement and storm‑water clearance.

• Approved October 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Removed agenda item VARI-0725-000651 (unanimous)
• Approved variance VARI-1025-000678 for a 7‑foot fence at 1205 S. Houston Ave (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Airport Advisory Commission will review the Manager's report, including fuel sales and hangar occupancy. The body will also discuss the Krue Project and address commissioner vacancies.

• September 2025 Jet-A sales: 7,534 gallons ($28,047.57)
• September 2025 AVGAS sales: 2,690.84 gallons ($12,597.91)
• October 2025 accounts receivable over 90 days: $14,792.97
• Hangar waiting list: 31 aircraft
• Discussion of Commissioner Vacancies

The Airport Advisory Commission approved the previous meeting’s minutes after a motion by Dwight Talbert and second by John Baker. The commission also accepted the manager’s and financial report with a unanimous vote after a motion by Julie Zelnick and second by John Baker. No other formal actions were taken.

• Accepted last month’s minutes (motioned by Dwight Talbert, seconded by John Baker)
• Accepted manager’s and financial report unanimously (motioned by Julie Zelnick, seconded by John Baker)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will approve the minutes from the August 26 meeting and distribute new rules and regulations. It will discuss the Fire Department's engineer promotional testing set for Wednesday, November 5, and review the Police Department's new‑hire testing process and new‑hire list. The commission will also hand out paperwork on an employee dismissal and state law on civil‑service appeals, and set a date for the related trial.

• Approve minutes of the August 26, 2025 meeting
• Engineer promotional testing scheduled for Wednesday, November 5
• Police Department report on new‑hire testing process
• Review the new‑hire list
• Distribute RFD dismissal paperwork and state law on civil‑service appeals; set trial date

The commission approved the minutes from the August 26 meeting. It set December 6 as the date for the appeal of the firefighter who was dismissed. Updated civil‑service rules were distributed and testing dates for engineer promotions were confirmed.

• Approved August 26 minutes
• Set December 6 as date for appeal of dismissed firefighter

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Russellville Historic District Commission will review two Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) for building repairs and replacements. The body will also discuss design guideline revisions and future training opportunities.

• COA for stucco repair and brick repointing at 309 West Main Street
• COA to replace every historic window at the Federal Building, 115 S. Denver Avenue
• Update on design guidelines revision
• Public tour of Latimore Home on November 1

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission will meet to approve September minutes and review a financial report. The body will also discuss the overall conditions of the cemetery based on an October 18 workshop.

• Approval of September 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• September 2025 financial report status update
• Update on Oakland Cemetery conditions following the October 18 workshop

The commission approved the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes after motions by Mary Schwartz and Jami Mullen. The board also agreed to keep potential mitigation measures for the road‑paving height issue in mind for next year.

• Accepted September 23, 2025 meeting minutes (motion approved)
• Agreed to consider mitigation measures for road‑paving height hazards next year

City Council

The Russellville City Council will discuss the mayor’s veto of the Russellville Playhouse and consider several financial and development actions. Items include authorizing a 90/10 ADA Grant for airport hangar repairs, reimbursing $51,450.73 to the Alliance for Economic Development, and a second reading of an ordinance amending the Land Subdivision and Development Code. The council will also vote on a new ordinance to form a coalition with Pope County, Atkins, and Dover to apply for a U.S. EPA Brownfields Grant.

• Resolution to authorize the mayor and city clerk to apply for a 90/10 ADA Grant for roof repairs on seven hangars and spray‑foam insulation on two hangars at the municipal airport
• Reimbursement request of $51,450.73 for third‑quarter expenses of the Alliance for Economic Development contract
• Second reading of an ordinance amending the Land Subdivision and Development Code (Ordinance No. 2444)
• Ordinance to establish a coalition with Pope County, the City of Atkins, and the City of Dover to apply for a U.S. EPA Brownfields Grant and authorize related agreements
• Discussion of Mayor Fred Teague’s veto regarding the Russellville Playhouse

The Russellville City Council approved the September 18 minutes and adopted several finance actions, including reimbursements, an appropriation for a 911 expense, and a $200,000 line‑item transfer to the Economic Development fund. The council also authorized the city to apply for a 90/10 ADA grant for airport hangar repairs and approved a new ordinance establishing a Brownfields grant coalition with an emergency clause. Two future budget meetings were scheduled for October 29 and November 5, 2025.

• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (voice vote 6-0)
• Adopted $15,000 reimbursement for Main Street Russellville (voice vote 6-0)
• Adopted $154,749.29 appropriation for 4th Quarter Pope County 911 expense (voice vote 6-0)
• Approved $200,000 line‑item transfer from General Fund to Economic Development Fund 27 (voice vote 6-0)
• Authorized 90/10 ADA grant application for airport hangar repairs (voice vote 6-0)
• Approved $51,450.73 reimbursement for Alliance for Economic Development contract (voice vote 6-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2546 establishing Brownfields grant coalition with emergency clause (roll call vote 6-0)
• Scheduled budget meetings for Oct 29 and Nov 5, 2025 (voice vote 6-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to approve a specific equipment purchase and a lease agreement. The body will consider a resolution regarding the Russellville Playhouse property.

• Appropriation of $41,479.10 from the Economic Development / Capital Fund for a UPS Battery Backup System
• Resolution to authorize a lease agreement with Russellville Playhouse for 210 South Boulder Ave.

The council appropriated $41,479.10 from the Economic Development/Capital Fund to purchase a UPS battery backup system. It also adopted a resolution allowing the mayor and city clerk/treasurer to sign a lease with the Russellville Playhouse at 210 South Boulder Ave. Both actions were approved by vote.

• Approved $41,479.10 appropriation for UPS battery backup system (voice vote 8-0)
• Authorized mayor and city clerk/treasurer to sign lease with Russellville Playhouse, 210 South Boulder Ave (roll‑call vote 5-3)

Board of Adjustment

The Russellville Board of Adjustment will consider an old‑business request to postpone a staff‑recommended fence‑height variance at 522 S Jonesboro Ave. It will also consider a new‑business request for a variance allowing an accessory structure closer to the front property line at 2695 S Elmira. Both items are submitted by private property owners.

• Postpone staff recommendation for fence‑height variance (Article 4.1) at 522 S Jonesboro Ave (VARI‑0725‑000651)
• Variance request (Article 3.1.2 (1)) to permit accessory structure closer to front line at 2695 S Elmira (VARI‑0825‑000665)

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting. It unanimously postponed the fence‑height variance (Article 4.1) for 522 S. Jonesboro Ave. It also unanimously approved the variance (Article 3.1.2 (1)) allowing an accessory structure at 2695 S Elmira.

• Approved September 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed fence‑height variance for 522 S. Jonesboro Ave (unanimous)
• Approved accessory‑structure variance for 2695 S. Elmira (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission will meet on October 2, 2025 to consider two items. Commissioners will elect a Vice Chair. They will also review a land license request to temporarily close W “C” Street and N Fargo Avenue adjacent to 201 N El Paso, submitted by Barrett & Associates for Sugar Creek Foods.

• Election of Vice Chair position
• License request to temporarily close W “C” Street and N Fargo Ave near 201 N El Paso (SPUP-0825-000663) submitted by Barrett & Associates for Sugar Creek Foods

The commission approved the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes by a unanimous vote. A proposal for a License in Land to temporarily close portions of W “C” Street and N Fargo Avenue was presented. Staff recommended forwarding the Memorandum of Understanding with 16 conditions to the City Council for approval. No vote was taken on the temporary‑closure proposal.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended forwarding MOU for temporary street closure to City Council (no vote)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission is meeting to review the Manager's Report, including fuel sales and financial aging for August 2025. The body will also discuss the KRUE project, the River Valley Rally, and commission term limits.

• August 2025 Jet-A sales: 7,718 Gallons ($29,168.39)
• August 2025 AVGAS sales: 2,353.11 Gallons ($11,021.21)
• Accounts receivable over 90 days: $14,355.61
• Hangar waiting list: 31 aircraft
• Discussion of KRUE Project Update and Commission Term Limits

The commission voted unanimously to promote Bill Rowlett from Vice Chair to Chairperson, effective October 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025. No other motions were recorded as approved or denied. The meeting also included updates on the KRUE project, the River Valley Rally charity event, and discussion of a possible weather‑station camera, but those items did not result in formal decisions.

• Appointed Bill Rowlett as Commission Chairperson (Oct 1–Dec 31, 2025) – passed unanimously

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission will vote to approve the minutes from its August 19, 2025 meeting. It will receive a financial status update for August 2025 from the Finance Department. The Director will give an update on the overall conditions of Oakland Cemetery, and the public will have an opportunity to voice concerns. The meeting will close with an open floor for items not on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting
• Financial report status update for August 2025
• Update on overall conditions of Oakland Cemetery
• Public floor to address concerns and suggestions
• Open floor for items not on the agenda

The commission accepted the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting. A motion to allocate up to $3,000 for fence repair and fall planting at Oakland Cemetery was approved. No public comments or new agenda items were presented.

• Accepted August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (approved)
• Approved allocation of up to $3,000 for grounds improvements (approved)

City Council

The Russellville City Council will consider amending zoning and subdivision codes, approving drainage system improvements on South Tampa and South Utica Avenues, and purchasing extrication equipment for the Fire Department. The body will also authorize agreements for airport and sidewalk maintenance work.

• Consideration of an ordinance amending the zoning code (Ordinance No. 2443)
• Consideration of an ordinance amending the land subdivision and development code (Ordinance No. 2444)
• Construction of drainage system improvements on South Tampa Avenue and South Utica Avenue
• Purchase of extrication equipment for Rescue Unit 1
• Appropriation of $166,863.70 for extrication equipment

The council approved the August 21, 2025 minutes and adopted a personnel policy amendment adding an employee discount rate. It approved several finance resolutions, including a downtown streetscape amendment, a waiver of bidding for five cardiac monitors for the fire department, and a contract for parking‑lot lighting and EV chargers. The city appropriated $419,308.44 for new cardiac monitors, $116,413.49 for the lighting/EV charger project, and $355,800 for a turf field at the soccer complex, all by voice vote (6‑0).

• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (voice vote 6-0)
• Adopted Personnel Policy Manual amendment adding employee discount rate (voice vote 6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2368 to amend downtown streetscape agreement (voice vote 6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2369 waiving formal bidding for five Cardiac Lifepak 35 monitors for fire department (voice vote 6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2371 to install parking‑lot lighting and EV chargers at downtown lot (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $419,308.44 from EMS Services Fund for new cardiac monitors (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $116,413.49 from Economic Development/Capital Fund for downtown parking‑lot lighting and EV chargers (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $355,800 from Parks & Rec Special Fund and General Fund for GeoSurface turf field at Russellville Soccer Complex (voice vote 6-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment approved the minutes from the August 7 meeting unanimously. It postponed a fence‑height variance for 522 S. Jonesboro Ave. and unanimously approved the nominations for Vice‑Chair and Secretary. Finally, the board unanimously approved a variance to raise the sign height at 401 E Harrell Drive.

• Approved August 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed fence‑height variance at 522 S. Jonesboro Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved Vice‑Chair nomination of Josh Stroud (unanimous)
• Approved Secretary nomination of Justin Cothren (unanimous)
• Approved sign height variance for 401 E Harrell Drive (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission adopted the June 5 meeting minutes unanimously. A motion to table the Vice Chairman election was passed unanimously. The commission approved a Special Use Permit for a Child Care Center at 5920 N Arkansas Ave with conditions, unanimously. It also approved a Special Use Permit for a golf‑cart and trailer sales business at 1215 E 14th St, unanimously.

• Approved June 5 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Vice Chairman election (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Child Care Center at 5920 N Arkansas Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for golf‑cart and trailer sales at 1215 E 14th St (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The commission voted to accept the minutes from the previous meeting after a motion by John Baker and a second by Brad Hopkins. The manager’s report was accepted unanimously following a motion by Julie Zelnick and a second by John Baker. No other formal actions were taken.

• Accepted last month’s minutes (motion John Baker, second Brad Hopkins)
• Accepted manager’s report unanimously (motion Julie Zelnick, second John Baker)

City Council

The council approved the July 17, 2025 meeting minutes and appointed Teri Klir to the Board of Adjustment. It adopted several appropriations, including $9,000 for recreation programs and $676,135.95 for new turf and backstops at Sholoh Park. Additional approvals funded an airport equipment shop ($59,660), parking‑lot improvements at the Dalton King Building ($143,173.96), a fire‑training facility upgrade ($68,788.82), and the purchase of two Ford F‑150 trucks ($79,550). Resolutions also closed special‑fund bank accounts and authorized various service agreements.

• Approved July 17, 2025 minutes (voice vote 6-0)
• Approved appointment of Teri Klir to Board of Adjustment (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $9,000 from Parks & Rec Special Fund for recreation programs (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $676,135.95 for turf and backstops at Sholoh Park (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $59,660 for airport equipment shop construction (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $143,173.96 for Dalton King Building parking‑lot improvements (voice vote 6-0)
• Approved $68,788.82 for fire department live‑fire training facility enhancements (voice vote 6-0)
• Appropriated $79,550 for purchase of two Ford F‑150 trucks (voice vote 6-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The commission accepted the July 15 minutes. It approved up to $2,000 to repair fence panels damaged near 10th St/Detroit Ave. It also approved moving the next meeting to Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

• Accepted July 15, 2025 minutes (motion approved)
• Approved up to $2,000 for fence panel repairs (motion approved)
• Approved rescheduling next meeting to Sept. 23, 2025 (motion approved)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment approved the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting unanimously. It approved a variance for 75 Round Rock Rd allowing a 4‑foot fence and a 54‑foot driveway width, also unanimously. It approved a variance for 2103 Timberwood Lane permitting an 8‑foot fence, unanimously. The board unanimously voted to table the variance request for 522 S Jonesboro Ave pending additional information.

• Approved June 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance VARI-0725-000648 at 75 Round Rock Rd – 4' fence, 54' driveway (unanimous)
• Approved variance VARI-0725-000653 at 2103 Timberwood Lane – 8' fence (unanimous)
• Tabled variance VARI-0725-000651 at 522 S Jonesboro Ave pending more information (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission voted to approve the May 27, 2025 minutes as presented. Commissioners Lykins, Lea, and Brown were designated to serve on a subcommittee that will revise the Commission's Rules and Regulations. The meeting also included presentations of fire department and police department hiring and promotion status updates.

• Approved May 27, 2025 minutes (vote passed)
• Formed subcommittee of Lykins, Lea, Brown to update Rules and Regulations

City Council

The council tabled a lease with the Russellville Playhouse and adopted several finance items, including an ambulance fee schedule amendment, a release agreement with Phoenix Innovations, and a reimbursement to the Boys & Girls Club. It also approved private club permits, raised the fixed‑asset threshold, and appropriated funds for skate‑park improvements and a new pavilion. Finally, the council accepted a bid and funded the renovation of Hangar One West at the municipal airport.

• Lease agreement with Russellville Playhouse (Finance Item 1) tabled (voice vote 7-0)
• Ordinance No. 2535 amending ambulance fee schedule adopted (voice vote 7-0)
• Release agreement with Phoenix Innovations Inc. adopted (voice vote 7-0)
• $17,953.44 reimbursement to Boys & Girls Club approved (voice vote 7-0)
• Private club permit for Apple HOP R, Inc. approved (roll‑call vote 7-0)
• Ordinance raising minimum fixed‑asset threshold to $5,000 adopted (roll‑call vote 7-0)
• $456,930.60 appropriated for ADA restrooms and skate features at Russellville Skate Park (voice vote 7-0)
• $211,640 appropriated for renovation of Hangar One West at municipal airport (voice vote 7-0)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission accepted the previous month's minutes without objection. The commission also accepted the manager’s financial report unanimously. A motion to approve the SOP update as written was carried unanimously.

• Accepted last month's minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted manager’s financial report (unanimous)
• Approved SOP update as written (unanimous)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The Oakland Cemetery Commission met on July 15, 2025 with a quorum and approved the minutes from the June 16, 2025 meeting. The commission received a financial report showing an operating account balance of $125,959.01 and a Perpetual Care Fund balance of $259,134.29. Director Stephanie Warwick reported on recent cemetery workshops, flag display, and ongoing roadway and Magnolia tree work. No members of the public attended, and the board was asked to prepare feedback on a 2026 workshop schedule for the next meeting.

• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (motion by Kathy Lumpkin, second by Mary Schwartz)

Airport Commission

The commission accepted the previous minutes and the manager’s report, but no motions, votes, or approvals were recorded. Updates were given on apron reconstruction, equipment shop bidding, runway grant planning, and upcoming events. Several items were noted as pending or to be addressed in future meetings.

City Council

The council approved multiple appointments, policy changes, and funding measures. It appointed Lance Oakley and Bradley Hopkins to the Airport Commission and created a new civilian front‑desk specialist position. Several ordinances were adopted to suspend reading rules and add an AI policy to the personnel manual. Major appropriations were made, including $191,231.70 for a downtown parking lot and $381,860.38 for parking at the Old Post Road Soccer Complex.

• Approved appointment of Lance Oakley to Airport Commission (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved appointment of Bradley Hopkins to Airport Commission (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved creation of civilian position Investigative Services/Front Desk Specialist (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2532 to suspend reading requirements (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2533 adding AI policy to Personnel Manual (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $191,231.70 for new downtown parking lot (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $381,860.38 for parking addition at Old Post Road Soccer Complex (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $27,758.50 for K‑9 unit replacement (voice vote 7-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The commission accepted the May 20 meeting minutes. It voted to remove the damaged north‑end arch on Drive #1 near 8th Street, lop it at the railing and cap the posts, and to similarly remove the south‑end arch near 11th Street, storing both for possible future use. No other actions were taken.

• Accepted May 20, 2025 minutes (motion approved)
• Approved removal and capping of north‑end arch on Drive #1 near 8th St (motion approved)
• Approved removal and capping of south‑end arch on Drive #1 near 11th St and storage of arches (motion approved)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the minutes from the May 1 meeting. It also unanimously approved a variance to allow a 190 sq ft off‑premise sign at 108 Marina Road, exceeding the 150 sq ft limit. No other variances were decided at this meeting.

• Approved May 1 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 190 sq ft sign variance at 108 Marina Road (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission unanimously approved the May 1, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved a License in Land to allow a fence in the alley at 505 S Greenwich Ave. A Special Use Permit for an auto sales business at 619 E 4th St was unanimously approved. A motion to approve a Special Use Permit for an RV sales lot at 295 N Elmira was made, but the vote outcome was not recorded.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved License in Land for fence at 505 S Greenwich Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for auto sales business at 619 E 4th St (unanimous)
• Motion to approve Special Use Permit for RV sales lot at 295 N Elmira made; outcome not recorded

Russellville Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission approved several design changes for applicant Will Wetzel's Handlebar project, including the awning attachment method, awning lighting, stone bulkhead, entry tile, and transom window. Commissioners also agreed to appeal the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program's delisting of the First Presbyterian Church. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved flat metal awning attachment to parapet and roof
• Approved recessed can lights under the awning
• Approved use of salvaged stone for bulkhead instead of cut stone
• Approved hex tile with Handlebar logo for exterior entry
• Approved frosted glass addition to transom window
• Agreed to appeal AHPP delisting of First Presbyterian Church
• Motion to adjourn passed by voice vote

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission approved the meeting minutes as presented. It voted to suspend competition to hire Lindsey Moses as a police officer. It also affirmed a suspension of competition to interview firefighter Christopher Blake.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Approved suspension of competition to hire Lindsey Moses
• Affirmed suspension of competition to interview Christopher Blake

Russellville Historic District Commission

The commission approved the May 22 meeting minutes by voice vote. It then approved the Certificate of Appropriateness for 203 N. Commerce Avenue with a 5‑to‑3 vote, despite the applicant’s absence. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote at 6:13 PM.

• Approved meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved COA for 203 N. Commerce Ave (5-3)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission reviewed status of apron reconstruction, taxiway rehabilitation, equipment shop bid, and runway rehabilitation. It noted schedule changes for future meetings and reported relocation of Hangar 1W ramp lights. The commission assigned several follow‑up actions to Airport Director Patrick Karp, including negotiating maintenance shop bids and benchmarking ramp fees. No formal approvals, votes, or new policies were adopted.

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The commission accepted the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting. A financial report showed an operating account balance of $138,696.94 and a Perpetual Care Fund balance of $256,724.84. Commissioners discussed recent workshop activities and the delayed tree work on Detroit Ave and 8th Street. They considered shortening the June 21, 2025 workshop to a single 9 am‑12 pm session, and the director agreed this may be the better option.

• Approved April 15 minutes (motion approved)

City Council

The council approved several finance items, including a $1,500 appropriation for appraisals and a $798,250 purchase of five acres and a structure at 1801 S Knoxville Avenue. It also adopted resolutions to collaborate with the Russellville Sister City Foundation and to bind the city to Apple Developer Program agreements. Additional actions included reimbursements for Main Street expenses and contracts for downtown streetscape and traffic signal improvements. All motions passed by voice vote of 7‑0.

• Approved minutes for April 7 and April 17, 2025 (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $1,500 appropriation for appraisals of 1801 S Knoxville & 210 S Boulder Ave (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $798,250 purchase of five acres and structure at 1801 S Knoxville Avenue (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2325 to collaborate with Russellville Sister City Foundation (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $15,000 reimbursement for Main Street Russellville expenses (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved authority for the IT department to bind the city to Apple Developer Program agreements (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved amendment with Blackstone Construction for downtown streetscape modifications (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved agreement with Burns & McDonnell for traffic signal and pedestrian improvements at North Arkansas Avenue and Reasoner Lane (voice vote 7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the minutes from the February 6, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved variance VARI-0325-000620 for 215 W Tacoma NB, requiring the applicant to plant trees to mitigate visual effects of the gravel drive. Both actions were passed without dissent.

• Approved February 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance VARI-0325-000620 for 215 W Tacoma NB, with tree‑planting condition (unanimous)

Russellville Historic District Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the April 24 meeting by voice vote. It also approved the Certificate of Appropriateness for reinstalling an awning on 311 West “C” Street, Hamilton Building, allowing the work to be completed by May 2 to secure grant funding. The meeting was then adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved April 24 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved COA for awning reinstall at 311 West “C” Street (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Russellville Planning Commission approved a Special Use Permit for an off‑premise sign at 108 Marina Road. It also approved the replat of Lots 5 & 6, Block 111, creating a new vacant lot and dedicating about 8 ft of right‑of‑way. Additionally, the commission approved vacation of 10 ft of the S Greenwich right‑of‑way adjacent to Lots 6 & 7, retaining a public utility easement, and forwarded staff recommendations for zoning code updates to City Council. All motions were made, seconded, and passed unanimously.

• Approve Special Use Permit for off‑premise sign at 108 Marina Road (unanimous)
• Approve replat of Lots 5 & 6, Block 111, creating one vacant lot and dedicating ~8 ft ROW (unanimous)
• Approve vacation of 10 ft of S Greenwich right‑of‑way adjacent to Lots 6 & 7, retain 10 ft easement (unanimous)
• Forward staff recommendation to City Council to adopt zoning code amendments (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission

The commission approved the April 1, 2025 meeting minutes. It adopted the proposed changes to Russellville Fire Department new‑hire testing. The commission declined a request to give an individual applicant a separate testing schedule. It also set dates for the Russellville Police Department new‑hire written test (May 1) and PAT/interviews (May 3).

• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (motion moved by Lea, seconded by Jackson)
• Adopted revised RFD new‑hire testing criteria (motion moved by Lea, seconded by Bachman)
• Denied request to modify testing schedule for one RFD applicant
• Scheduled RPD written test for May 1 and PAT/interviews for May 3

Russellville Historic District Commission

The commission approved the February 27, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. Commissioners elected Greg Barborek as Vice‑Chair and kept Betsy McGuire as Chair and Judy Galloway as Secretary, both by voice vote. The discussion on revising the COA application was postponed to the special meeting on May 1, also by voice vote.

• Approved February 27, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Elected Greg Barborek as Vice‑Chair (voice vote)
• Retained Betsy McGuire as Chair (voice vote)
• Retained Judy Galloway as Secretary (voice vote)
• Postponed COA application revision discussion to May 1 special meeting (voice vote)

Airport Commission

The Russellville Airport Advisory Commission approved the previous month's minutes and the manager’s financial report by unanimous vote. No other actions were decided; the commission received updates on apron reconstruction, taxiway rehabilitation, and equipment shop design, and discussed upcoming events and SOP revisions.

• Accepted last month’s minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted manager’s financial report (unanimous)

City Council

The city council voted 7-0 to remove the $211,640 appropriation for renovating Hangar One West. It also approved a $55,500 grant for downtown historic district design guidelines, a $19,995 purchase of a Mud Dog pressure‑washer trailer, and a $28,963.86 reimbursement to the Boys & Girls Club. Additional actions included reappointing Chase Smith to the Housing Authority board and adopting planning department job descriptions.

• Removed $211,640 appropriation for Hangar One West renovation (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $55,500 grant for downtown historic district design guidelines (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $19,995 purchase of Mud Dog pressure‑washer trailer (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $28,963.86 reimbursement to Boys & Girls Club (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $3,000 Basketball Program appropriation (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $3,000 Pickleball Program appropriation (voice vote 7-0)
• Reappointed Chase Smith to Russellville Housing Authority board (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted job descriptions for Planning Department Senior Planner and Planner II (voice vote 7-0)

Oakland Cemetery Commission

The commission accepted the March 18 minutes. It agreed to raise the gravedigger's traditional burial fee from $500 to $600. It also approved a $40 allocation for snacks and water for the April 26 spring gravestone cleaning project.

• Accepted March 18 minutes (approved)
• Approved gravedigger fee increase to $600 (board agreed)
• Approved $40 allocation for snacks and water (approved)

City Council

The council discussed SB Item 1, which would split a $77,500 parking‑lot repair cost with Phoenix Innovations. Councilmember Keller moved to table the item until the April 17, 2025 meeting; the motion was seconded by Gray and passed by voice vote 8‑0. No approval of the expense was made. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Tabled SB Item 1 (parking‑lot expense) until April 17, 2025 (voice vote 8‑0)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Planning Commission

The commission unanimously approved its meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved a Special Use Permit for Sonny Auto Sales at 4151 E Main Street. In addition, it unanimously approved a Special Use Permit for an auto detail and sales business at 125 W 6th Street, limiting sales to two vehicles and restricting the activity to the eastern side of the property. No decision was recorded on the proposed large‑scale apartment development at 808 W E Street.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for auto sales at 4151 E Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for auto detail and sales at 125 W 6th Street with conditions (unanimous)

Civil Service Commission

The commission approved the February 25 meeting minutes. It decided not to adopt a veterans‑preference policy and will issue a response letter. The commission also voted to suspend competition for hiring Christopher Benjamin Knight, a certified officer from Louisiana.

• Approved February 25 meeting minutes (motion by Lea, seconded by Ramsey)
• Decided not to establish a veterans‑preference policy (Chairman Lykins to write response letter)
• Suspended competition for hiring Christopher Benjamin Knight (motion by Camacho, seconded by Bachman, passed)

Airport Commission

The commission accepted the minutes from the previous meeting after a motion by John Baker and a second by Julie Zelnick. The manager’s financial report was accepted unanimously following a motion by Julie Zelnick and a second by John Baker. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted last month's minutes (motion passed)
• Accepted manager's report unanimously

City Council

The council approved the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes and adopted two resolutions authorizing street improvement contracts with Hardrock Construction. It transferred $794,506.25 from the General Fund to the Capital Asset Fund for Phase 1 of the Airport Apron Reconstruction and approved funding for a skate‑park design, a private club permit, rezoning of Sequoyah Way, and a sewer extension to 1285 East Gum Street. All motions passed by voice vote.

• Approved February 20, 2025 minutes (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2313 authorizing street improvements on Waterloo Avenue (voice vote 7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2314 authorizing alley improvements between East 7" and East 8" Streets (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $794,506.25 transfer from General Fund to Capital Asset Fund for Airport Apron Reconstruction Phase 1 (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved $9,500 from Parks & Rec Special Fund for Russellville Skate Park design services (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved Private Club Permit for La Union Social Club, Inc. (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved rezoning of the 1000 Block Sequoyah Way from R‑1 to R‑2 (voice vote 7-0)
• Approved ordinance extending sewer service to 1285 East Gum Street (voice vote 7-0)