Siloam Springs public meetings in 2023

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is reviewing several infrastructure and land use items, including a major sewer line budget amendment and a real estate purchase. The meeting also includes second readings for ordinances regarding firearms discharge and land use definitions.

• Maxwell Street Sewer Line construction budget amendment of $1,021,373.23
• Purchase of Simon Sager Avenue Stub Street for $350,000
• Scott Equipment Company backhoe purchase for $130,633
• History Museum Service Contract for $70,000
• Ordinance 23-32 regarding discharge of firearms or weapons

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will review several development permits, including a significant development permit for a new 5,800 sq ft commercial retail facility at 816 E. Main St., a final plat for Davidson Rd., a rezoning from C-2 to R-4 at 4290 Cheri Whitlock Dr., and a preliminary plat on Hwy. 412 East. The commission will also consider easement acceptances and approve minutes from the previous meeting. Several items are tabled to the January 9, 2024 meeting.

• Significant Development Permit SD23-17 for 816 E. Main St. to construct a 5,800 sq ft commercial retail facility, with conditions including a setback and parking variance.
• Final Plat FPC23-03 for 22000 Block of Davidson Rd., requested to be tabled to January 9, 2024.
• Rezoning RZ23-12 for 4290 Cheri Whitlock Dr. from C-2 to R-4.
• Preliminary Plat PP23-04 for 3861 Hwy. 412 East.
• Easement acceptances to be discussed.

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests for a commercial property at 816 E. Main St. The requests involve encroaching 10 feet into the rear setback and providing two fewer parking spaces than the minimum required by code.

• Setback Variance (BOA23-10) for 816 E. Main St.
• Parking Variance (BOA23-11) for 816 E. Main St.
• Approval of September 12 and October 10, 2023, meeting minutes

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on December 5, 2023, with a consent agenda and several ordinances for final or first readings. Key items include a $228,240 contract for a Rec Center feasibility study, a $135,973 joint use agreement for tennis courts, and multiple rezoning and annexation proposals. The board will also consider a revised airport ground lease and accept a $15,000 grant.

• Budget amendment and contract for Rec Center feasibility study with WER, $228,240
• Joint use agreement with Siloam Springs School District for SSHS tennis courts, $135,973
• Ordinance 23-30: Annexation of 114.43 acres at 2700 East Block of Keck Road (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 23-26: Rezoning from G-I to I-1 at 2200 Block of S. Lincoln St. (3rd reading)
• Ordinance 23-29: Rezoning from R-2 (H-1) to C-2 (H-1) at 500 Block of S. Britt St. (3rd reading)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission will meet to receive updates from the Electric and Water/Wastewater departments. Key items include results of a Shpliger study on cost-saving measures, an economic grant from GRDA, and GRDA's new gas unit and rate increase. Water projects to be discussed include the north water tower, Maxwell Street sewer, and the Headworks project at the wastewater treatment plant.

• Shpliger study results on cost-saving measures
• Economic grant from GRDA
• GRDA's new gas unit and rate increase
• North water tower project
• Maxwell Street sewer project

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold a regular meeting with public input, a presentation of the 2022 audit by Landmark CPA's, and a consent agenda covering appointments, auction services, chemical bids, and a hearing date for an easement vacation. The board will also conduct second readings of ordinances on minor subdivisions and three rezonings, plus a first reading for annexing 114.43 acres on Keck Road. Staff reports and director reports are also scheduled.

• Ordinance 23-30: Annexation of 114.43 acres at 2700 East Block of Keck Road (1st reading)
• Ordinance 23-26: Rezoning from G-I to I-1 at 2200 Block of S. Lincoln St. (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 23-28: Rezoning from A-1 to C-2 at 3861 Hwy. 412 E. (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 23-29: Rezoning from R-2 (H-1) to C-2 (H-1) at 500 Block of S. Britt St. (2nd reading)
• Resolution 65-23: Setting hearing date for easement vacation at 816 East Main Street

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider a significant development permit for a 40-unit senior housing complex at 801 E. Lake Francis Drive, along with two zoning code amendments regarding short-term rentals and the definition of significant development. The commission will also discuss a final plat for a development on Davidson Rd. and a possible meeting time change for January 2024. The agenda includes routine items like approving the previous meeting's minutes.

• Significant Development Permit SD23-19: 40-unit multifamily senior housing at 801 E. Lake Francis Drive
• Final Plat FPC23-03: 22000 block of Davidson Rd., requested to table to December 12, 2023
• Code Amendment: Chapter 102 (Zoning Code) – Short Term Rentals
• Code Amendment: Chapter 102 (Zoning Code) – Significant Development Definition
• Discussion on Planning Commission meeting time for January 9, 2024

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will consider a $5.9 million electric volume commitment contract with AECI, a $700,000 budget amendment for land purchase and stub street construction on Simon Sager Avenue, and a $350,000 discretionary land acquisition. They will also hold first readings on several rezoning ordinances and a third reading on a zoning amendment. The agenda includes resolutions on an easement vacation hearing, ratifying Main Street payments, and a mayoral veto use.

• Contract / AECI Volume Commitment / Electric / $5,939,878
• Budget Amendment / Land Purchase and Construction of Stub Street on Simon Sager Avenue / $700,000
• Authorization of Discretionary Purchase / Type I Land Acquisition / $350,000
• Ordinance 23-26 / Rezoning from G-I to I-1 / 2200 Block of S. Lincoln St.
• Ordinance 23-28 / Rezoning from A-1 to C-2 / 3861 Hwy. 412 E.

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will vote on the 2024 budget and compensation plan, approve a $332,685 contract for Sager Creek improvements, and consider a $700,000 budget amendment for land purchase and a stub street on Simon Sager Avenue. They will also hold a second reading of a zoning ordinance for the G-I zone and waive competitive bidding for health insurance with Blue Cross and Blue Shield. The agenda includes several routine items like minutes and reports.

• Resolution 60-23: Adopt 2024 Budget
• Resolution 61-23: Adopt 2024 Compensation Plan
• Contract with Freese & Nichols, Inc. for Sager Creek Improvements: $332,685.00
• Budget Amendment for Land Purchase and Construction of Stub Street on Simon Sager Avenue: $700,000
• Ordinance 24-23: Waive Competitive Bidding for Health Insurance with Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will review several development permits, including a significant development permit and four rezoning requests, plus a proposed code amendment on lot split reviews. Staff recommends tabling the significant development permit, denying one rezoning, and approving another. The commission will also discuss whether to meet in December.

• Significant Development Permit SD23-17 for a 5,800 sq ft commercial retail facility at 816 E. Main St. – requested to table to November 14
• Rezone RZ23-06 at 1000 Block of Cheri Whitlock Pkwy from R-2 to R-3 – staff recommends denial
• Rezone RZ23-07 at 2200 Block of S. Lincoln St from G-I to I-1 – staff recommends approval
• Rezone RZ23-08 at 3861 Hwy. 412 East from A-1 to C-2
• Rezone RZ23-09 at 500 Block of S. Britt St from R-2 (H-1) to C-2 (H-1)

Board of Adjustment

The Siloam Springs Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request to allow a single-family house to encroach 10 feet into the required 15-foot rear setback at 814 S. Inglewood St. Staff supports the variance, citing a hardship due to the lot's shallow depth. Two other variance requests for 816 E. Main St. are requested to be tabled. The board will also approve minutes from the May 9, 2023 meeting.

• Rear setback variance BOA23-09 for 814 S. Inglewood St. to allow 10-foot encroachment into 15-foot rear setback
• Lot coverage variance BOA23-10 for 816 E. Main St. (requested to table)
• Parking variance BOA23-11 for 816 E. Main St. (requested to table)
• Approval of minutes from May 9, 2023 regular meeting

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will consider a $1,183,656 contract with Tri Star Contractors for the Sager Creek Drive rebuild, along with a budget amendment. They will also hold the first reading of Ordinance 23-23 to amend the zoning code for the G-I zone, and discuss a contract and veto resolutions related to Main Street Siloam Springs. The consent agenda includes a $73,315 purchase for the Villa View Widening Project and a resolution to waive signage rules for a Runway Group gravel cycling hub sign.

• Contract / Budget Amendment / Sager Creek Drive Rebuild / Tri Star Contractors / $1,183,656
• Ordinance 23-23 / 1st Reading / Amending City Municipal Code / Chapter 102 Zoning / G-I Zone
• Purchase / Public Works Department / Street Division / Type II Surface Material / Villa View Widening Project / Emery Sapp & Sons / $73,315.00
• Resolution 57-23 / Waive Signage Ordinance / Approve MOU Runway Group
• Discussion / Main Street Siloam Springs Contract and Veto resolutions

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission will consider approving solicitation of bids for a 20MVA transformer and receive updates on the Simmons fiber project, completion of the Moss substation addition, North water tower painting, Maxwell Street sewer project, and smoke testing. The meeting also includes approval of the August 31, 2023 minutes.

• Approval to solicit bids on a 20MVA transformer
• Update on Simmons fiber project
• Completion of the Moss substation addition
• North water tower painting update
• Maxwell Street sewer project update

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on September 19, 2023, primarily acting on a consent agenda that includes approving meeting minutes, dedicating utility easements, issuing final plat development permits for several subdivisions, setting a hearing date for an easement and alleyway vacation, and waiving signage requirements for an MOU with Runway Group. The agenda also includes staff and director reports. No major policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled beyond the consent items.

• Dedication of utility easements at 3300 Block of South Elm Street
• Final plat permits: Stubbs Subdivision (2603 S. Lincoln St.), The Commons Addition (2000 Block Dawn Hill Rd.), Mission Hill Phase 2 (4000 Block N. Country Club Rd.), Fox Meadow Subdivision (600-700 Block E. Lake Francis Dr.)
• Resolution 56-23: Setting hearing date for easement and alleyway vacation at 800 Block of East Jefferson Street
• Resolution 57-23: Waive signage ordinance and approve MOU with Runway Group

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider amending the zoning code to allow up to 80% lot coverage for certain General Institutional (G-I) zoned lots, specifically those three acres or smaller that front on a principal arterial street (Hwy. 412). The change aims to align G-I lots with the 80% coverage already permitted for C-2 commercial lots along the highway. The commission will also approve minutes from the August 8 meeting and review staff-approved permits.

• Code amendment to Chapter 102 (Zoning) to increase G-I lot coverage from 60% to 80% for eligible lots
• Eligibility: lots three acres or less, fronting on a principal arterial street (Hwy. 412)
• Approval of minutes from August 8, 2023 regular meeting
• Review of staff/board approved permits including lot splits (e.g., LS23-12 through LS23-17)

The commission accepted the August 8, 2023 minutes by unanimous voice vote. It then approved the Chapter 102 G‑I Zone Lot Coverage amendment, also by unanimous voice vote, and will forward it to the Board on October 3, 2023. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Accepted August 8, 2023 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Chapter 102 G‑I Zone Lot Coverage amendment (unanimous voice vote)
• Will forward amendment to Board on October 3, 2023
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Board of Adjustment

The Siloam Springs Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request (BOA23-08) from property owner Jimmy Lewis to allow a recently constructed front porch to encroach 12 feet into the required 25-foot front setback at 904 Eastgate Street. Staff recommends denial, finding the applicant has not demonstrated a hardship as defined by city code, noting the porch was built without a permit and the architectural design argument is not a valid hardship. The board will also approve minutes from the May 9, 2023 meeting.

• Variance request BOA23-08 for 904 Eastgate Street to allow 12-foot encroachment into front setback
• Staff report recommends denial, citing lack of hardship and code violation
• Porch constructed without a building permit; applicant applied for variance after discovery
• Property is in R-2 (Residential, medium) zone; front setback required is 25 feet
• Board will approve minutes of May 9, 2023 regular meeting

The Board accepted the May 9, 2023 minutes by unanimous voice vote. It denied the front setback variance (BOA23-08) for 904 Eastgate Street with a 6‑1 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Accepted May 9, 2023 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Denied Front Setback Variance BOA23-08 for 904 Eastgate St (6-1)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on September 5, 2023, with a presentation on an Attorney General opinion, consent agenda items, and several contracts and ordinances. Key decisions include a $951,985 contract for the Brentwood Drainage Project, a $325,000 ambulance purchase, and a rezoning of the 2000 block of Brashears Road from C-2 to I-1. The board will also consider creating a Public Services Department and a $50,000 investment in golf course improvements.

• Contract with Tri Star Contractors for Brentwood Drainage Project, $951,985
• Budget amendment for Fire Department ambulance purchase, $325,000
• Ordinance 23-21: Rezoning 2000 block of Brashears Road from C-2 to I-1
• Ordinance 23-22: Creating a Public Services Department and hiring a director
• Resolution 50-23: $50,000 for Siloam Springs Country Club golf course improvements

The Board of Directors approved several high-cost infrastructure contracts, including a nearly $1M drainage project and airport rehabilitation. It also passed ordinances to establish a new Public Services Department and rezone property on Brashears Road. Additionally, the Board approved $50,000 for golf course improvements with a requirement that the city pay vendors directly.

• Approved $951,985 Brentwood Drainage Project contract with Tri Star Contractors (unanimous)
• Approved $44,787.59 Airport Runway Pavement & Lighting Rehabilitation contract (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 23-22 creating a Public Services Department and hiring a Director (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 23-21 rezoning 2000 Block of Brashears Road from C-2 to I-1 (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 for Siloam Springs Country Club improvements, amended to pay vendors directly (6-1)
• Approved Resolution 46-23 to levy 2023 taxes for collection in 2024 (6-1)
• Approved $121,753.44 purchase of hydro excavation machine from Vermeer Midsouth (unanimous)
• Approved $325,000 budget amendment for Fire Department ambulance purchase from Pinnacle Emergency Vehicles (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission will hold its regular meeting to discuss updates from the Electric and Water/Wastewater departments. Specific agenda items include electric service extension fees and a hydro-excavation machine. The meeting will also include approval of the July 27, 2023 minutes.

• Electric Department update on service extension fees
• Water/Wastewater Department update on hydro-excavation machine
• Approval of July 27, 2023 meeting minutes

The Commission approved taking the purchase of a hydro excavation machine to the Board of Directors. The body also approved the minutes from the July 27, 2023 meeting. A decrease in the electric service extension fee was discussed.

• Approved minutes of July 27, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved taking $150,000 hydro excavation machine purchase to Board of Directors on September 5th (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold a regular meeting with public input, a presentation on golf course updates, and a consent agenda including utility easement dedications and an airport ground lease. The board will also consider two rezoning ordinances on second reading and discuss sanitation and June financials.

• Rezoning from R-2 to C-1, 2600 block of North Country Club Drive (Ordinance 23-20)
• Rezoning from C-2 to I-1, 2000 block of Brashears Road (Ordinance 23-21)
• Airport ground lease for 8,100 sq ft building with P & P Holdings LLC
• Utility easement dedications at Cheri Whitlock Parkway, Waukesha Road, and Keck Road
• Sanitation discussion and June financials

The Board of Directors approved a rezoning request for the 2600 block of North Country Club Drive and a ground lease for an airport building. Several utility easement dedications were approved via the consent agenda. The Board also agreed to explore a $50,000 investment for golf course green restoration.

• Approved rezoning from R-2 to C-1 at 2600 Block of North Country Club Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved airport ground lease for 8,100 sq ft building with P&P Holdings LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved utility easements for 1000-1100 Block of Cheri Whitlock Parkway (Unanimous)
• Approved utility easements and right-of-way for 2800 Waukesha Road (Unanimous)
• Approved utility easements and right-of-way for 20927 Keck Road (Unanimous)
• Approved August 1, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Placed Ordinance 23-21 rezoning 2000 Block of Brashears Road from C-2 to I-1 on second reading (Unanimous)
• Agreed that City Administrator should investigate a $50,000 investment for golf course greens

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider three special use permits for short-term rentals at 928 S. Crow St., 799 S. Lincoln St., and 2790 Meridian Place, Unit A. Staff recommends approval for each, with the first two being the 28th and 29th such permits in the city. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and a staff announcement about a town hall meeting on August 24, 2023.

• Special Use Permit SU23-02 for short-term rental at 928 S. Crow St.
• Special Use Permit SU23-03 for short-term rental at 799 S. Lincoln St.
• Special Use Permit SU23-04 for short-term rental at 2790 Meridian Place, Unit A
• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2023 regular meeting
• Staff announcement on Town Hall Meeting, August 24, 2023

The Planning Commission unanimously approved three special use development permits for properties on S. Crow St., S. Lincoln St., and Meridian Place. These items are scheduled to go to the Board on September 5, 2023.

• Approved Special Use Development Permit SU23-02 at 928 S. Crow St. (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Development Permit SU23-03 at 799 S. Lincoln St. (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Development Permit SU23-04 at 2790 Meridian Place, Unit A (unanimous)
• Accepted July 11, 2023, minutes (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on August 1, 2023, at 6:30 PM. The agenda includes a second reading of an ordinance to call an annexation election, first readings of two rezoning ordinances, and several resolutions for development permits. The consent agenda includes a budget amendment for tennis court improvements and a memorandum of understanding with the school district for school resource officers.

• Ordinance 23-19 (2nd reading): Annexation election
• Ordinance 23-20 (1st reading): Rezoning from R-2 to C-1, 2600 block of North Country Club Drive
• Ordinance 23-21 (1st reading): Rezoning from C-2 to I-1, 2000 block of Brashears Road
• Budget Amendment: $135,973 for public use of tennis courts with Siloam Springs School District
• MOU with Siloam Springs School District for School Resource Officers: $303,233.94

The Board of Directors unanimously voted to remove a proposed annexation ordinance from the agenda for further staff review. The Board also approved several development permits and a budget amendment for school district tennis court use.

• Removed Ordinance 23-19 (annexation) from agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $135,973 budget amendment for Siloam Springs School District tennis court use (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Siloam Springs School District for School Resource Officers for $303,233.94 (unanimous)
• Placed Ordinance 23-20 (rezoning 2600 block North Country Club Drive from R-2 to C-1) on first reading (unanimous)
• Placed Ordinance 23-21 (rezoning 2000 block Brashears Road from C-2 to I-1) on first reading (unanimous)
• Remanded Oak Brook Addition preliminary plat to developers (unanimous)
• Approved Blackberry Estates Addition preliminary plat (unanimous)
• Approved significant development permits for 320 North Simon Sager Avenue, 2000 block Brashears Road, and 850 Hwy. 412 West (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to discuss updates and projects across electric, water, and wastewater departments. Items include an AMI portal update, GRDA funding for the AMI program, a wastewater plant permit update, a skid steer purchase, and sewer line design work. The commission will also approve the minutes from the June 29, 2023 meeting.

• AMI Portal Update and GRDA funding of AMI program
• Carroll/Ozark issues
• Wastewater plant permit update
• Skid steer purchase in Water/Wastewater Services Division
• Maxwell Street sewer line design and wastewater plant headworks improvement design

The Commission approved moving a proposal for AMI program financing through the GRDA to the Board of Directors. Other business included updates on electric utility boundaries, traffic signal installations, and wastewater plant design.

• Approved minutes of June 29, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved motion to take GRDA AMI program financing to Board of Directors for approval (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on July 18, 2023, with a workshop on smart growth at 5:30 PM. The board will consider consent agenda items including equipment purchases and budget amendments, and will hold public hearings on two rezoning ordinances, an annexation election ordinance, and a resolution declaring Vision Zero for safe streets. A staff report on short-term rentals code update will also be discussed.

• Ordinance 23-17: Rezoning 400 block of North Progress Avenue from A-1 to C-2 (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 23-18: Rezoning 2600 block of N. Country Club Rd. from R-2 to P-D (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 23-19: Annexation election (1st reading)
• Resolution 41-23: Safe Streets For All / Vision Zero declaration
• Purchase of 2023 Kubota Compact Track Loader for $175,000 from Springdale Tractor

The Board of Directors approved rezoning requests for North Progress Avenue and N. Country Club Road. An ordinance to hold an annexation election was given its first reading following public comment, and the Board directed staff to proceed with short-term rental code updates.

• Approved Ordinance 23-17 rezoning 400 Block of North Progress Avenue from A-1 to C-2 (6-1)
• Approved Ordinance 23-18 rezoning 2600 Block of N. Country Club Road from R-2 to P-D (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 23-19 first reading for an annexation election (unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution 41-23 regarding Safe Streets For All/Vision Zero Declaration (unanimous)
• Approved $175,000 purchase of 2023 Kubota Compact Track Loader (unanimous)
• Approved $15,144.98 budget amendment for engine diagnostic device (unanimous)
• Approved $7,500 budget amendment for air conditioner recharging machine (unanimous)
• Approved $52,161.91 budget amendment for fuel farm upgrades (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider several development permits, including a rezoning of 1.70 acres on Brashears Rd. from C-2 to I-1 and a significant development permit for a 43,142 sq ft warehouse. Other items include a rezoning on N. Country Club Dr., significant development permits on Simon Sager Ave. and Hwy. 412 West, and a preliminary plat on N. Dogwood St. The commission will also hear a staff presentation on a final annexation plan.

• Rezone RZ23-04: 2000 block Brashears Rd. from C-2 to I-1 (Agri Warehouse LLC)
• Significant Development Permit SD23-14: 43,142 sq ft warehouse on Brashears Rd.
• Rezone RZ23-05: 2600 block N. Country Club Dr. from R-2 to C-1
• Significant Development Permit SD23-15: 320 N. Simon Sager Ave.
• Preliminary Plat PP23-03: 1300-1800 block N. Dogwood St.

The Planning Commission unanimously approved several rezone and significant development permits. These items are scheduled to go to the Board on August 1, 2023.

• Approved Rezone Development Permit RZ23-04, 2000 Block of Brashears Road (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-14, 2000 Block of Brashears Road (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone Development Permit RZ23-05, 2600 Block of North Country Club Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-15, 320 North Simon Sager Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-16, 850 Highway 412 West (unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Plat Development Permit PP23-03, 1300-1800 Block of North Dogwood Street (unanimous)
• Accepted June 13, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Directors

This agenda is purely procedural, containing only a call to order, roll call, an executive session, and adjournment. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items are listed for the public portion of the meeting.

• Executive session

The meeting consisted of a call to order, roll call, and an executive session. No public decisions, votes, or actions were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on July 5, 2023, with a consent agenda including minutes and utility easement dedications. The board will consider ordinances on personnel authority, vacation of utility easements, and two rezoning requests, as well as resolutions for significant development permits. They will also discuss the annual Planning Commission report, the assistant city administrator position, and May financials.

• Ordinance 23-13 / 2nd Reading / Personnel Authority
• Ordinance 23-15 / 3rd Reading / Vacation of Utility Easements / 224 & 302 South College Street
• Ordinance 23-17 / 1st Reading / Rezoning from A-1 to C-2 / 400 Block of North Progress Avenue
• Ordinance 23-18 / 1st Reading / Rezoning from R-2 to P-D / 2600 Block of N. Country Club Rd.
• Resolution 39-23 / Significant Development Permit / 420 North Simon Sager Avenue (The Reserves Apts. Revision)

The Board of Directors approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Manna Center and adopted an ordinance to vacate utility easements on South College Street. Several rezoning requests and development permits were advanced or approved, and the Board voted to counter a contract offer for a new city administrator.

• Approved Memorandum of Understanding with Manna Center (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-15 vacating utility easements at 224 & 302 South College Street (unanimous)
• Approved 1st reading of Ordinance 23-17 rezoning 400 Block of North Progress Avenue from A-1 to C-2 (6-1)
• Approved 1st reading of Ordinance 23-18 rezoning 2600 Block of N. Country Club Rd from R-2 to P-D (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 39-23 Significant Development Permit for 420 North Simon Sager Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 40-23 Significant Development Permit for 1700 Block of East Kenwood Street with condition 2 removed (6-1)
• Voted to counter the counteroffer for the city administrator contract (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including multiple meeting minutes and utility easement dedications (unanimous)

Board of Directors

This agenda is purely procedural boilerplate. The Siloam Springs Board of Directors is meeting only to hold an executive session, followed by adjournment, with no listed action items, discussions, or public hearings.

• Executive session

The Board of Directors held a special-called meeting to discuss the employment of a new City Administrator. Following an executive session, the Board voted to offer the position to Allan Gilbert.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to consider City Administrator employment (Unanimous)
• Approved offer for City Administrator position to Allan Gilbert with terms to be negotiated (Unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Commission approved the minutes from the May 25, 2023 meeting. Billing Supervisor Tesha Burrows provided a report on utility staffing, statement volumes, and rate changes since 2005. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 25, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Directors

This is a special-called meeting of the Siloam Springs Board of Directors with an agenda limited to an executive session and adjournment. No public decisions or discussions are listed, making it procedural in nature.

• Executive session
• Adjournment

The Board entered an executive session to consider the employment of an employee. No final hiring decision was recorded. A subsequent meeting was scheduled for July 3, 2023, to continue the discussion.

• Approved motion to enter executive session regarding employee employment (unanimous)
• Approved scheduling a Special-Called Meeting for July 3, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Directors

This is a special-called meeting of the Siloam Springs Board of Directors. The agenda contains only a call to order, roll call, an executive session, and adjournment, with no other listed business items.

The Board of Directors met in a special-called session to interview a candidate for the city administrator position. No official action was taken during the meeting.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to interview city administrator candidate (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors met in a special-called session to conduct an interview for the city administrator position. No official action was taken following the executive session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to interview city administrator candidate (unanimous)

Board of Directors

This is a special-called meeting of the Siloam Springs Board of Directors with an agenda limited to an executive session and adjournment. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed on the public agenda.

• Executive session
• Adjournment

The Board of Directors met in a special-called session to interview a candidate for the city administrator position. No official action was taken following the executive session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to interview city administrator candidate (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on June 20, 2023, with a workshop beforehand on future fire station plans. The board will consider consent agenda items, including a $414,506.26 purchase for self-contained breathing apparatus, and will vote on several ordinances and resolutions, including annexations, a fire station architectural contract, and development permits. Several items were tabled from the June 6 meeting for further discussion.

• Architectural services contract for Fire Station #1 with Matthias J. Pearson Architect PLLC for $165,000
• Ordinance 23-11 (3rd reading): Annexation of 10 acres at 2603 S. Lincoln Street
• Ordinance 23-14 (2nd reading): Annexation of 40.40 acres at 3100 Block of North Mt. Olive Street and 700 Block of West Pittsfield Street
• Resolution 28-23 and 29-23: Significant Development Permits for Rose Meade Townhomes at 1800-1900 and 1901 Azlin Place
• Resolution 33-23: Preliminary Plat Development Permit for Oak Brook Addition at 3095 North Mount Olive Street

The Board approved a $165,000 architectural contract for Fire Station #1 and an emergency ordinance to waive competitive bidding for property insurance. One annexation was adopted, while another failed to move forward. The Board also approved two development permits for Rose Meade Townhomes.

• Approved $165,000 architectural services contract for Fire Station #1 (Unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-11 to annex 10 acres at 2603 S. Lincoln Street (Unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-16 to waive competitive bidding for Moss Insurance Group property insurance (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 28-23 for Significant Development Permit at 1800-1900 block of Azlin Place (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 29-23 for Significant Development Permit at 1901 Azlin Place (Unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution 33-23 regarding Oak Brook Addition preliminary plat to August 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Failed to second motion for second reading of Ordinance 23-14 regarding annexation of 40.40 acres
• Decided to stop advertising the City Administrator job posting

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider two significant development permits and two rezoning requests, including a previously tabled rezoning. The commission will also hear a presentation on annexation via election. Decisions made will be forwarded to the Board of Directors on July 5, 2023.

• Significant Development Permit SD23-12: 10,381 sq ft commercial office/bank building with drive-thru at 1700 block E. Kenwood St.; staff recommends approval with conditions, including a requested 27% parking reduction.
• Significant Development Permit SD23-13: 420 N. Simon Sager Ave.
• Rezone RZ23-02: 2600 block N. Country Club Dr., from R-2 to P-D; tabled at April 11 meeting.
• Rezone RZ23-03: 400 block N. Progress Ave., from A-1 to C-2.
• Presentation on annexation via election.

The Planning Commission unanimously approved two significant development permits and two rezone development permits. These items are scheduled to go to the Board on July 5, 2023.

• Approved May 9, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-12 at 1600 Block of East Kenwood Street / 1800 Block of Highway 412 West with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-13 at 420 North Simon Sager Ave with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone Development Permit RZ23-02 at 2600 Block of North Country Club Road (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone Development Permit RZ23-03 at 400 Block of North Progress Avenue (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors met in a special-called session to review recommendations from a screening committee. Following an executive session, the Board decided to proceed with interviewing four candidates for the city administrator position.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to consider city administrator recommendations (unanimous)
• Approved motion to interview four candidates recommended by the screening committee (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors met in a special-called session to review recommendations from a screening committee. After an executive session, the Board voted to proceed with interviewing four candidates for the city administrator position.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to consider city administrator recommendations (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to interview four candidates recommended by the screening committee (Unanimous)

Board of Directors

This is a special-called meeting of the Siloam Springs Board of Directors with a short agenda. The board will recognize and take input from a screening committee, then hold an executive session before adjourning. No decisions or substantive items are listed.

• Screening Committee Recognition and Input
• Executive Session

The Board of Directors met in a special session to review recommendations from a screening committee regarding the city administrator position. After an executive session, the Board decided to proceed with interviewing the recommended candidates.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to consider city administrator recommendations (unanimous)
• Approved motion to interview four candidates recommended by the screening committee (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board adopted Ordinance 23-10 to rezone property at the 2000 block of East Tahlequah Street from A-1 to P-D. Several significant development permits were approved, while others were tabled for further review. The Board also reached a consensus to move forward with extending the city's taxi program.

• Approved Ordinance 23-10 rezoning 2000 block of East Tahlequah Street from A-1 to P-D (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit for Plasma Donation Center at 1993 Highway 412 East (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit for New Life Church at 1611 Cheri Whitlock Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit for Club Carwash at 2301 East Main Street (unanimous)
• Tabled $165,000 Fire Station #1 architectural services contract until June 20 (unanimous)
• Tabled Ordinance 23-13 regarding Personnel Authority until July 5 (4-3)
• Tabled Preliminary Plat Development Permit for Oak Brook Addition until June 20 (6-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Manna Center MOU and utility easements (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission will discuss a proposed annexation and review utility financials, including financial management policies, income statements, and board data. The agenda includes an overview of the annexation area and reasons for it, followed by a financial review. No votes are scheduled on these items.

• Annexation overview and discussion led by Community Development Director Don Clark
• Review of financial management policies, including cash balance and transfer policies
• Utility unrestricted cash at $12.5 million as of March 31, 2023
• Future projects listed: Solar Farm $30M, New substation $15M, Headworks Upgrade $5.5M, Maxwell Street Sewer $1.1M
• Approval of April 27, 2023 meeting minutes

The Commission approved the engagement of an environmental attorney to assist with phosphorus removal negotiations involving the EPA and ADEQ. Members discussed the financial implications of a proposed annexation, including an estimated $1.07 million buyout of 136 Carroll Electric customers and $3 million in upgrades.

• Approved minutes of the April 27, 2023 meeting
• Approved engaging an environmental attorney for phosphorus removal negotiations

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on May 16, 2023, with several ordinances on the agenda. These include a third reading to amend the city code on fireworks sales and use, a second reading to rezone property on East Tahlequah Street, a first reading to annex 10 acres on South Lincoln Street, a sole-source contract, and a first reading on personnel authority. The board will also set a hearing date for an easement vacation on South College Street and receive the administrator's report.

• Ordinance 23-08 (3rd reading): Amend fireworks code, reducing allowed days to July 2-4 and hours to noon-10 p.m.
• Ordinance 23-10 (2nd reading): Rezone 2000 block of East Tahlequah Street from A-1 to P-D.
• Ordinance 23-11 (1st reading): Annex 10 acres at 2603 S. Lincoln Street.
• Ordinance 23-12 (1st and only reading): Sole source contract with Stinson.
• Resolution 27-23: Set June 6, 2023 hearing for easement vacation at 224 and 302 S. College Street.

The Board of Directors approved an ordinance regulating the sale and use of fireworks and authorized the purchase of legal services from the Stinson Firm, LLC. The Board also advanced several zoning and annexation ordinances and held a first reading on a proposal to grant the Board hiring and firing approval for certain city positions.

• Adopted Ordinance 23-08 regarding the sale and use of fireworks (Unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 23-12 for legal services from Stinson Firm, LLC (Unanimous)
• Declared an emergency for the Stinson Firm, LLC legal services contract (Unanimous)
• Passed first reading of Ordinance 23-13 regarding Board personnel authority (5-1)
• Passed first reading of Ordinance 23-11 for annexation of 10 acres at 2603 S. Lincoln Street (Unanimous)
• Passed second reading of Ordinance 23-10 for rezoning 2000 block of East Tahlequah Street from A-1 to P-D
• Approved consent agenda including Resolution 27-23 for easement vacation hearing (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved five significant development permits and one preliminary plat development permit. Most items passed unanimously, including a plat for the North Mt. Olive Street and West Pittsfield Street area despite resident concerns regarding traffic and drainage.

• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-07 (1800 to 1900 Block of Azlin Place) (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-09 (1901 Azlin Place) (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-06 (1611 Cheri Whitlock Drive) (6-1)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-10 (2301 East Main Street) (unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-11 (1993 East Highway 412) (unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Plat Development Permit PP23-02 (3100 Block of North Mt. Olive Street / 700 Block of West Pittsfield Street) (unanimous)
• Accepted April 11, 2023, minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved four separate driveway variance requests for properties located on Azlin Place. The board also accepted the minutes from the April 11, 2022, meeting.

• Approved driveway variance BOA23-03 for 1904 Azlin Place (unanimous)
• Approved driveway variance BOA23-04 for 1902 Azlin Place (unanimous)
• Approved driveway variance BOA23-05 for 1806 Azlin Place (unanimous)
• Approved driveway variance BOA23-06 for 1901 Azlin Place (unanimous)
• Approved April 11, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board voted 4-1 against a motion to repeal the existing fireworks ordinance, effectively keeping the current rules. They unanimously approved two ground leases at the airport, a rezoning, and several development permits. The consent agenda and multiple ordinances were also passed.

• Motion to repeal fireworks ordinance failed 4-1 (Blair, Smiley, Hunt, Carroll voting no)
• Approved ground lease with DDB Investments at airport (unanimous)
• Approved ground lease with P&P Holdings, LLC at airport (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-09 vacation of utility easements at 3299 Highway 412 East (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 24-23 significant development permit for Siloam Springs School District (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25-23 significant development permit for Agri Warehouse, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 26-23 final plat for Mission Hill Subdivision, Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $150,000 for dispatch console replacement (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission will hold its regular meeting on April 27, 2023, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Board Room. The agenda includes a presentation on Scenic Hill Solar, a discussion of the GRDA contract, and updates on the Wastewater Plant Headworks and Maxwell Street Sewer designs. The commission will also approve the minutes from the March 30, 2023 meeting.

• Scenic Hill Solar presentation by Phil Stokes, Electrical Director
• GRDA contract discussion with Phil Stokes
• Wastewater Plant Headworks design update by Steve Gorszczyk
• Maxwell Street Sewer design update by Steve Gorszczyk
• Approval of March 30, 2023 meeting minutes

The Commission approved the minutes from the March 30, 2023 meeting. The session included presentations on solar energy options and updates on headworks and sewer design. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of the March 30, 2023 meeting

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will consider a consent agenda including a $482,740 contract for painting the North Water Tower, a final plat for Grandview Estates Phase 2, and a bond for the acting city administrator. They will also hold readings on ordinances for annexing 18.47 acres at 2270 Dawn Hill Road, regulating fireworks, and vacating utility easements at 3299 Highway 412 East, plus a significant development permit for the Siloam Crossings Shopping Center. Staff will present first-quarter nonprofit reports and January/February financials.

• Contract: Dixie Painting & Sandblasting, $482,740 for North Water Tower painting
• Annexation: 18.47 acres at 2270 Dawn Hill Road (3rd reading)
• Fireworks: Amend Chapter 38 to regulate sale and use (1st reading)
• Easement vacation: 3299 Highway 412 East (1st reading)
• Significant development permit: Siloam Crossings Shopping Center

The Board of Directors approved a contract for painting the North Water Tower and adopted an ordinance annexing 18.47 acres. They also approved a development permit for the Siloam Crossings Shopping Center and advanced ordinances regarding fireworks and utility easements.

• Approved $482,740 contract for North Water Tower painting to Dixie Painting & Sandblasting (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-07 to annex 18.47 acres at 2270 Dawn Hill Road (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-23 for Significant Development Permit at 3299 Highway 412 East (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 22-23 for Final Plat Development Permit at Grandview Estates Subdivision Phase 2 (unanimous)
• Decided to continue with no additional bond for Acting City Administrator Christina Petriches (unanimous)
• Placed Ordinance 23-08 regarding sale and use of fireworks on first reading (unanimous)
• Placed Ordinance 23-09 regarding vacation of utility easements at 3299 Highway 412 East on first reading (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider several significant development permits, rezoning requests, and a final plat. The most notable item is a proposed 50,088 sq ft retail shopping center at 3299 Highway 412 East, which staff recommends approving with conditions. Other items include a school district development, a church development, an agricultural warehouse, and two rezoning requests.

• SD23-05: 50,088 sq ft retail center at 3299 Highway 412 East, between Walmart and Lowe's, with conditions including a setback variance
• SD23-04 (revision): Significant development permit for Siloam Springs School District, 3000 block of Cheri Whitlock Dr.
• SD23-06: Significant development permit for New Life Church, 1611 Cheri Whitlock Dr., staff requests tabling to May 9
• RZ23-01: Rezone from A-1 to P-D, 2000 block of E. Tahlequah St.
• RZ23-02: Rezone from R-2 to P-D, 2600 block of N. Country Club Dr., staff requests tabling to June 13

The Planning Commission approved four significant development permits and one rezone development permit. Two other development permits were tabled for future meetings. Approved items will proceed to the Board on April 18 and May 2, 2023.

• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-05 at 3299 Highway 412 East (Unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-04 at 3000 Block of Cheri Whitlock Drive (Unanimous)
• Tabled Significant Development Permit SD23-06 at 1611 Cheri Whitlock Drive to May 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-08 at 2000 Block of Brashears Road (Unanimous)
• Approved Rezone Development Permit RZ23-01 at 2000 Block of East Tahlequah Street (Unanimous)
• Tabled Rezone Development Permit RZ23-02 at 2600 Block of North Country Club Road to June 13, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Final Plat Development Permit FPC23-02 at 5000 Block of North Country Club Road (Unanimous)
• Accepted March 14, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Siloam Springs Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request (BOA23-02) from Siloam Crossing, LLC to allow a building to encroach 3.72 feet into the required 10-foot side setback at 3299 Highway 412 East. Staff recommends approval, citing a hardship due to the lot's narrow width. The board will also approve minutes from a July 2022 meeting.

• Setback variance BOA23-02: 3.72-ft encroachment into 10-ft side setback at 3299 Hwy. 412 E.
• Property zoned C-2 (Roadway Commercial), proposed office/retail use.
• Applicant: Siloam Crossing, LLC; agent: Burk-Collins, Inc.
• Staff recommends approval based on hardship (narrow lot width).
• Related applications: SD23-05 (Planning Commission) and ROW23-01 (Board of Directors).

The Board of Adjustment approved a setback variance for a property located at 3299 Highway 412 East. The board also accepted the minutes from the July 12, 2022, meeting.

• Approved setback variance BOA23-02 for 3299 Highway 412 East (unanimous)
• Approved July 12, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board adopted ordinances for self-storage facilities and a rezoning request on Highway 16. It also approved salary increases for the City Clerk and Acting City Administrator and authorized a kayak park lease. A bond for the Acting City Administrator was tabled for further cost analysis.

• Approved Kayak Park Lease Agreement with Illinois River Watershed Partnership (unanimous)
• Approved $250/week salary increase for City Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved $400/week salary increase for Acting City Administrator (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-05 amending zoning for self-storage facilities (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 23-06 rezoning 21000 block of Hwy 16 from I-1 to P-D (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 20-23 for Heritage Ranch Subdivision Phase 4 & 5 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-23 for Neighborhood Storage at 3400 block of E Hwy 412 (unanimous)
• Tabled Acting City Administrator bond to April 18th meeting (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear from GRDA CEO Dan Sullivan, consider purchasing a Kubota excavator, and open bids for the North Water Tower Painting Project. The meeting includes routine opening procedures and adjournment.

• Purchase of a Kubota excavator
• Bid opening for North Water Tower Painting Project
• Introduction of Dan Sullivan, CEO of GRDA
• Approval of minutes from February 23, 2023 regular meeting

The Commission approved the minutes from the February 23, 2023, meeting. Other agenda items consisted of presentations and discussions regarding electricity generation, equipment purchases, and water tower maintenance.

• Approved February 23, 2023, meeting minutes

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold its regular meeting on March 21, 2023, addressing several ordinances and administrative items. Key actions include approving a job posting for the city administrator position, finalizing a mobile food vending ordinance, and considering zoning changes for self-storage facilities and a rezoning along Highway 16. The board will also consider annexing 18.47 acres on Dawn Hill Road and handle consent agenda items including easement dedications and a hearing date for an easement vacation.

• Approve job posting for City Administrator position
• Ordinance 23-03 (3rd reading): Amending Chapter 22 (Business Code) for mobile food vending
• Ordinance 23-05 (2nd reading): Amending Chapter 102 Zoning for self-storage facilities
• Ordinance 23-06 (2nd reading): Rezoning from I-1 to P-D at 21000 block of South Arkansas Highway 16
• Ordinance 23-07 (1st reading): Annexation of 18.47 acres at 2270 Dawn Hill Road

The Board adopted an ordinance regarding mobile food vending and advanced ordinances for self-storage facilities, rezoning, and annexation. The Board also approved the job posting for a new city administrator and provided temporary salary increases for the acting administrator and city clerk.

• Adopted Ordinance 23-03 regarding mobile food vending (Unanimous)
• Advanced Ordinance 23-05 regarding consumer self-storage facilities to second reading (Unanimous)
• Advanced Ordinance 23-06 rezoning 21000 block of South Arkansas Highway 16 from I-1 to P-D to second reading (Unanimous)
• Advanced Ordinance 23-07 annexing 18.47 acres at 2270 Dawn Hill Road to first reading (Unanimous)
• Approved posting for City Administrator job opening (Unanimous)
• Appointed Carla Wasson to the city administrator screening committee (4-3)
• Approved $400 per week salary increase for Acting City Administrator Petriches until 30 days after a new administrator is hired (Unanimous)
• Approved $250 per week salary increase for the City Clerk until 30 days after a new administrator is hired (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will review two development permits: a preliminary plat for 66 residential lots in the Heritage Ranch Subdivision and a significant development permit on Highway 412 East. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and a list of previously approved permits.

• Preliminary Plat PP23-01 for 66 lots at 2270 Dawn Hill Rd., with conditions including annexation and zoning to R-2
• Significant Development Permit SD23-03 in the 3400 block of Hwy. 412 East
• Approval of minutes from February 14, 2023 meeting

The Planning Commission approved a preliminary plat development permit and a significant development permit. Both items are scheduled to go to the Board on April 4, 2023.

• Approved February 14, 2023, minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Plat Development Permit PP23-01 for 2270 Dawn Hill Road with an amendment requiring a 3-foot minimum height for the live screen (Unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-03 for 3400 Block of Highway 412 East (Unanimous)

Board of Directors

This is a special-called meeting of the Siloam Springs Board of Directors. The board will take roll call and then appoint a screening committee to review city administrator applicants before adjourning. No other business is on the agenda.

• Appointment of screening committee for city administrator applicants

The Board of Directors appointed a screening committee to review city administrator applications. The committee will consist of Jonathan Barnett, a representative from Simmons, Arthur Hulbert, Randy Torres, and Director Rissler. The committee, along with HR and the City Administrator, was instructed to prepare guidelines for the process.

• Appointed city administrator screening committee consisting of Jonathan Barnett, Simmons representative, Arthur Hulbert, Randy Torres, and Director Rissler (4-3)
• Denied amendment to have mayor appoint at least seven members excluding board members (3-4)
• Denied motion to approve committee names excluding any board member (3-4)
• Denied motion to table the item to the next regular meeting (3-4)

Board of Directors

The Siloam Springs Board of Directors will hold a workshop on community survey results before its regular meeting. The board will consider consent agenda items including two short-term rental special use permits, a budget amendment, and a $66,000 mowing contract. They will also hold readings on ordinances for mobile food vending, short-term rentals, self-storage facilities, and a rezoning, plus a significant development permit for apartments.

• Resolution 16-23: Special use permit for short-term rental at 411 North Broadway Street
• Resolution 17-23: Special use permit for short-term rental at 315 West Harvard Street
• 2023 ROW Mowing contract with Custom Lawn Care for $66,000
• Ordinance 23-03 (2nd reading): Amending business code for mobile food vending
• Ordinance 23-06 and Resolution 18-23: Rezoning and significant development permit for 21000 Block of South Arkansas Highway 16 (Dogwood Place Apartments)

The Board of Directors voted to terminate the City Administrator's contract effective immediately. Christina Petriches was appointed as the Interim City Administrator. The Board also approved several zoning ordinances and a right-of-way mowing contract.

• Terminated City Administrator's contract (4-3)
• Appointed Christina Petriches as Interim City Administrator (4-3)
• Approved $66,000 ROW mowing contract with Custom Lawn Care (6-1)
• Approved Special Use Development Permits for short-term rentals at 411 N. Broadway St and 315 W. Harvard St (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 18-23 for Dogwood Place Apartments significant development permit (Unanimous)
• Advanced Ordinance 23-03 regarding mobile food vending to second reading (Unanimous)
• Advanced Ordinance 23-05 regarding self-storage facilities to first reading (Unanimous)
• Advanced Ordinance 23-06 for rezoning 21000 block of S. Arkansas Hwy 16 from I-1 to P-D to first reading (Unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission will receive overviews of the water and sanitary sewer distribution systems, the electrical distribution system, and statutory buyout requirements when annexing electrical cooperative customers. The meeting also includes scheduling tours of treatment plants and the sanitation transfer center. The agenda is informational, with no votes on specific items.

• Overview of water and sanitary sewer systems: 202 miles of water lines, 122 miles of sewer lines, 20 lift stations
• Electrical system overview: 5 city substations, GRDA capacity usage at 22%
• Discussion of Arkansas Code 14-207-103/104 buyout process for annexing Carroll Electric Cooperative customers
• Example: 2020 enclave annexation near Villa View Drive and Dogwood Street cost $14,000 to buy out CECC
• Scheduling tours of water treatment, wastewater treatment, and sanitation transfer facilities

The Commission approved the minutes from the January 26, 2023 meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of presentations regarding the city's water, sewer, and electrical distribution systems.

• Approved minutes of the January 26, 2023 meeting

Board of Directors

The Board unanimously approved Resolution 15-23 declaring Siloam Springs a Pro-Life City. Additionally, the Board authorized several equipment purchases for Public Works and approved development permits for local projects.

• Approved Resolution 15-23 Pro-Life City Declaration (unanimous)
• Approved $151,366 purchase of 2024 Mack Anthem Day Cab Truck (unanimous)
• Approved $130,946 purchase of 2022 John Deere 5100E Mowing Tractor (unanimous)
• Approved ground lease for David and Tami Hirschfeld (unanimous)
• Passed first reading of Ordinance 23-03 regarding mobile food vending with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 13-23 Significant Development Permit for 1750 South Lincoln Street (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 14-23 Revised Final Development Permit for Siloam Warehouse Addition (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $263,125 Walton Family Foundation Tree Grant reallocation (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will review seven development permits, including a rezoning request and multiple short-term rental applications. Staff also presents proposed amendments to the zoning code regarding mini-storage and short-term rentals. Most items are recommended for approval and will proceed to the City Board for final action.

• Rezone Development Permit RZ22-11 for the 21000 Block of S. AR Hwy. 16 from I-1 to P-D zoning
• Special Use Permit SU22-13 for a short-term rental at 411 N. Broadway St.
• Special Use Permit SU23-01 for a short-term rental at 315 W. Harvard St.
• Proposed City Code amendments to Chapter 102 (Zoning) for Mini Storage and Short Term Rentals
• Significant Development Permit SD23-02 for the 21000 Block of Hwy. 16

The Planning Commission approved several development permits and two zoning code amendments. Most items passed unanimously, including updates to regulations for mini storage and short-term rentals. One significant development permit passed with a 6-1 vote.

• Approved Special Use Permit SU22-13 at 411 North Broadway Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit SU23-01 at 315 West Harvard Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Rezone Development Permit RZ22-11 at 21000 Block of Highway 16 (Unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-01 at 21000 Block of Highway 16 (6-1)
• Approved Significant Development Permit SD23-01 at 1750 South Lincoln Street (Unanimous)
• Tabled Preliminary Plat Development Permit PP23-01 at 2270 Dawn Hill Road (Unanimous)
• Approved Final Plat Development Permit FPC23-01 at 650 West Highway 412 (Unanimous)
• Approved Zoning Code amendments for Mini Storage and Short Term Rental (Unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Siloam Springs Utility Commission is holding a regular meeting that includes the swearing in of members, a review of Ordinance 22-23 and its mission statement, and discussion of future meeting topics and training. The agenda is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no major decisions or contracts listed for this meeting.

• Review of Ordinance 22-23 and mission statement
• Discussion of future topics including utility rates, solar policy, and GRDA contract overview
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Training sessions on retail water provider requirements per Act 605 of 2021

The Utility Commission held its regular meeting to swear in five members and review the establishing ordinance. The commission elected a Chair and Vice-Chair and discussed future training topics regarding city utilities and infrastructure.

• Elected Commissioner Neff as Chair (by acclamation)
• Elected Commissioner Galicia as Vice-Chair (by acclamation)

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors approved the purchase of two trucks for the Public Works Department and adopted an ordinance for an annexation correction. The board also appointed a representative for settlement negotiations in the Lockhart litigation matter.

• Approved purchase of 2023 Rear-Load Trash Truck for $205,360.00
• Approved purchase of 2024 Mack Day-Cab Truck for $155,428.00
• Adopted Ordinance 23-01 for annexation correction
• Appointed Phillip Patterson as representative for Lockhart litigation settlement negotiations
• Approved Consent Agenda including FAA Airport Terminal Apron Reconstruction grant application for $900,000.00
• Tabled Resolution 04-23 regarding Prosecuting Attorney budget amendment to February 7
• Denied motion to place Main Street contract back on agenda (3-4)
• Approved Resolution 02-23 regarding Board procedures and organizational matters

Planning Commission

The Siloam Springs Planning Commission will consider several development permits, including a significant development permit for a 6,500 sq. ft. medical facility at 1995 E. Hwy 412, a preliminary plat for the 3000 block of E. Kenwood St., and three special use permits. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and election of officers. The medical facility permit was tabled from a previous meeting and is recommended for approval with conditions.

• Significant Development Permit SD22-12: 6,500 sq. ft. medical facility at 1995 E. Hwy 412, recommended for approval with conditions
• Preliminary Plat PP22-06: 3000 block of E. Kenwood St., owner Bar & Shield Development, LLC
• Special Use Permit SU22-14: 617 S. Maxwell St., owner Tyler & Erin Cook
• Special Use Permit SU22-15: 413 S. Madison St., owner Mark & Michelle Bailey
• Special Use Permit SU22-16: 731 Cypress Court, owner Quan Phan & Loi Nguyen

The Planning Commission unanimously approved five permit applications, including a significant development permit and three special use permits. These items are scheduled to go to the Board on February 7, 2023. The commission also elected its officers for the term.

• Elected Smith as Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected Salley as Vice-Chairman (Unanimous)
• Elected Williams as Secretary (Unanimous)
• Approved Significant Development Permit D22-12 at 1995 East Highway 412 (Unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Plat Development Permit PP22-06 at 3000 Block of East Kenwood Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit SU22-14 at 617 South Maxwell Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit SU22-15 at 413 South Madison Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit SU22-16 at 731 Cypress Court (Unanimous)

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors elected a new vice mayor and approved a budget amendment for part-time employees. A resolution regarding board procedures and organizational matters was tabled until the January 17 meeting. The board also approved a consent agenda including several utility easement dedications.

• Elected David Allen as vice mayor (4-3)
• Approved Consent Agenda including utility easements at 910 Raines Road, 1504 East Kenwood Street, Arkansas Highway 16, 2795 and 2831 Waukesha Road, and 825 and 833 West Granite Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Res 01-23 amending purchasing requirements for Utility Inventory (Unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution 02-23 regarding Procedures and Organizational Matters of the Board of Directors (5-2)
• Approved Resolution 03-23 for 2023 Budget Amendment regarding part-time employees (Unanimous)