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March 29, 2023 Update
Over the weekend Maumelle sent a delegation to join other representatives from Arkansas at the National League of Cities Conference
held in Washington D.C. The purpose of the convention was to bang the drum on the needs for local community representation in Congress.
The benefits of the programming were mixed, with the messages being repeatedly delivered concentrated on using the recent ARPA (American
Recovery Program Act) funds before Congress can take those monies back in 2024. Maumelle has already used all of those monies on
on our Fire and Police Departments. Much of the other programming seemed more focussed on re-electing Joe Biden as President.
The real benefits came from meeting other representatives from around the state and other parts of Arkansas, as well as time spent
bonding with Maumelle's other representatives; Mayor Norris, council members Christine Gronwald and Chad Garner, plus his wife Mary,
and City Clerk Tina Timmons. That's Christine, Tina, and myself shown above having dinner at a local restuarant, which was comped
to us free of charge. The expenses were kept down on the trip by walking to most locations. That's China Street shown above on the right.
Other dinners were provided at meetings with the Arkansas Municipal League, and by Congressman Womack--held in the Lincoln Room that
is located right behind the Rotunda in the Capital Building. Afterwards, Congressman Womack revealed a secret tunnel hidden in Lincoln's office.
Visiting the nation's Capital Building was a highlight of the trip.
In the first picture above, Mayor Norris can be seen in the underground tunnels that connect the Capitol to neighboring buildings through
tunnels that run beneath the surrounding streets. In the second picture Council Person Christine Gronwald is seen in the hallways that
most tour groups take. Our delegation, however, was given access to areas that most others rarely see--including an upper level of the
Rontunda, which left many of the visitors below wondering who we were. The image above that on the right is the Seal of the State of Arkansas
that hangs outside the office of Senator French Hill, who also took time to talk to members of our delegation.
During our free time, we visited the Capital Mall and toured some of the many monuments, including the Washington Monument, the World War 2
memorial, and the Reflecting Pool (that was so empty of water it was more of a non-reflecting pool) that led up to the steps of the
Lincoln Memorial. It was along the pool that a pergrine hawk nearly made a kill of a squirrel, which managed to escape into a nearby tree.
A murder of crows immediately swarmed in, but were loudly disappointed that they could now steal a meal from the unsuccessful falcon.
All in all it was a very colorful and event filled journey that was well worth taking. The picture below is the sunrise of our final day there.
held in Washington D.C. The purpose of the convention was to bang the drum on the needs for local community representation in Congress.
The benefits of the programming were mixed, with the messages being repeatedly delivered concentrated on using the recent ARPA (American
Recovery Program Act) funds before Congress can take those monies back in 2024. Maumelle has already used all of those monies on
on our Fire and Police Departments. Much of the other programming seemed more focussed on re-electing Joe Biden as President.
The real benefits came from meeting other representatives from around the state and other parts of Arkansas, as well as time spent
bonding with Maumelle's other representatives; Mayor Norris, council members Christine Gronwald and Chad Garner, plus his wife Mary,
and City Clerk Tina Timmons. That's Christine, Tina, and myself shown above having dinner at a local restuarant, which was comped
to us free of charge. The expenses were kept down on the trip by walking to most locations. That's China Street shown above on the right.
Other dinners were provided at meetings with the Arkansas Municipal League, and by Congressman Womack--held in the Lincoln Room that
is located right behind the Rotunda in the Capital Building. Afterwards, Congressman Womack revealed a secret tunnel hidden in Lincoln's office.
Visiting the nation's Capital Building was a highlight of the trip.
In the first picture above, Mayor Norris can be seen in the underground tunnels that connect the Capitol to neighboring buildings through
tunnels that run beneath the surrounding streets. In the second picture Council Person Christine Gronwald is seen in the hallways that
most tour groups take. Our delegation, however, was given access to areas that most others rarely see--including an upper level of the
Rontunda, which left many of the visitors below wondering who we were. The image above that on the right is the Seal of the State of Arkansas
that hangs outside the office of Senator French Hill, who also took time to talk to members of our delegation.
During our free time, we visited the Capital Mall and toured some of the many monuments, including the Washington Monument, the World War 2
memorial, and the Reflecting Pool (that was so empty of water it was more of a non-reflecting pool) that led up to the steps of the
Lincoln Memorial. It was along the pool that a pergrine hawk nearly made a kill of a squirrel, which managed to escape into a nearby tree.
A murder of crows immediately swarmed in, but were loudly disappointed that they could now steal a meal from the unsuccessful falcon.
All in all it was a very colorful and event filled journey that was well worth taking. The picture below is the sunrise of our final day there.
March 20, 2023 Update
Tonight’s Maumelle City Council meeting was two members short, so all unanimous votes will show a count of 6 to 2,
since all absentees count as a vote of No.
The Mayor gave his State of the City Address, to report on the affairs of the City. He felt that the fact that those on the
City Council who ran for re-election were all unopposed, and how he won his own campaign with two-thirds of the vote
was a mandate that citizens approved of the job being done by City Hall.
He then discussed future plans for the city that include the Greenbelt Way, the upcoming Gateway Park for central Maumelle,
increasing the connectivity of the walking paths, adding seven new pickle ball courts by the end of 2023, the work being done
by Courtney Dunn and Cydney Thompson to increase commercial and community development. He also discussed the change in Fire Chiefs,
as Maumelle welcomed Chief Bo Buford as outgoing Chief Ezelle’s replacement, and how the City has purchased new a vehicle and a
flat water boat, along with adding three new Lieutenants to the Departement.
Chief Pickard of the Fire Department was selected for and attended the FBI Academy in 2022, with Captain Dustin Ivy serving in his
stead during that abscene. Last year overall crime was down. Two more cars were stolen, but in most cases the cars were left
unlocked with the keys inside them. Five new police vehicles were added, along with new body cameras and software, also adding
two new positions last year and with plans to add two more this year.
New City Attorney Andrew Thornton was sworn in at the start of the year, and his credentials were discussed,
as was the excellent work done by outgoing City Attorney Melissa Krebs.
City Clerk Tina Timmons issued nearly 500 business licenses, as well as upgrading software services and equipment, while also
converting to cloud-based technology and digitizing the archives. She was elected vice-president of the City Clerk and Recorders Associateion.
Finance Director Liz Mathis has left for an opportunity in the private sector, replaced by Beatrice Sousa, who was hired as her
replacement. She brings many years of experience as the City moves their record keeping to Open Gov software and cloud-based technology.
The Department of Human Resources led by Doreen Mathis is also upgrading their software and technology.
Turnover rate in City Employees was down from the year before.
Planning and Permits Director Scott Grummer dealt with the City Limits expanding by 108 acres as the City continues to annex new
areas into the City. The industrial park developed more square feet of space in the last year than had been developed in the previous
12 years combined. Maumelle High School also continues to added new athletic fields and activities. Business continue to be launch
and residential construction continues. 31 miles of new and repaired utility lines were added across the city, prompting the need
to add new processes to track this activity across the City.
Codes enforcement issued many citations last year, primarily for high grass and illegally parked boats and RVs.
Parks and Recreation led by Philip Raborn continue to maintain Maumelle’s many parks and various outdoor events.
A new indoor batting facility was added last year. With new parks being added this year, it will be another busy year.
City Sanitation managed by Mike Hogan has been delivered a new truck, but it arrived with a broken arm,
which will involve a several month delay before it goes into service.
The Sanitation Department processed 5,678 tons of solid waste, along with 5,624 cubic yards of yard waste last year.
A study is being done to consider a raise in the rates charged--which were last increased 12 years ago.
Animal Service had another busy year, with 22 animal bites reported, 15 of them by dogs,
two of them from outside the City limits and two by pit bulls.
That concluded the Mayor’s report.
Outgoing Finance Director Liz Mathis gave the financial report for February.
Overall Revenues for the are $248K ahead of the budget year-to-date and $104K more than the prior year.
The Total General Fund balance is $12M.
Last year was the first year of the implemention of a new road preservation project, which includes asphault sealing.
Bids will be going out soon for the construction of the roundabout at White Oaks Crossing and Counts Massie and Club Manor.
Ordinance 1088 amending the competitive bidding and purchasing procedures had its third reading. The Oridiance passed by a unanimous vote.
The discussion of how to proceed with the leasing of Park on the River, begun during the last meeting, was continued.
Council member Mosley gave an update on the situation and the discussion from the least meeting. He proposed having
a public meeting and having a tour of the facility. He also requested seeing the documents the City might have for the last few years,
with a focus on the collection of 25% of revenues for the property, which seen low to him.
Mayor Norris mentioned no records are kept as far back as 2017.
City Attorney Thornton advised that Council member looks at the property and records separately.
Finance Director Mathis said the requested records are in storage and on paper, which would require manual recover from 20 boxes of receipts.
New City Director requested more precise instructions about what she would be looking for.
Member Mosley said he’d like to focus on documents that would support the payments that were being paid by Team Summit.
He wanted to see how well the property was managed in the past.
Mayor Norris said it was very poorly managed, since it was a Park of the City Council, as opposed to a part administrated by Parks
and Recreation. It’s been a pet project of the City Council since the very beginning, and was administered by the Accounting Department,
and was lost during the transition where we lost a Finance Director, had a period without, another Director for a while who then left,
and then further changes after that. Mayor Norris said it was very poorly managed on the administration side. He felt that conducting
this investigation would stop the transition of the new Finance Director into her new position. He felt “it’s like shoving a bar into
the gears as they’re trying to catch up.”
Member Mosley asked to start with the records of 2018. Mayor Norris felt this is important, but that there are other more important things
that will be stopped while the investigation is done.
Director Beatrice Sousa encouraged we wait until later to do this.
Member Mosley was firm in that he wants to see the records now and made a formal verbal request.
Council member Holt said he was interested in doing a personal trip. He wants the area to belong to the City.
He echoed my suggested from the last meeting about the possibility of have Food Trucks at the Park during certain times of the year.
Mayor Norris said that the park is currently open to the public.
Member Holt emphasized that he did not want it being used by private companies, and felt that residents should have the right to rent
it at different times of the year.
Member Mosley said at this point he would like to see the Park placed under the umbrella of Parks and Recreation, and
“love to see (it used as) a open house … for residents to come out and enjoy it.” But he is still researching the matter,
and suggested doing an on site work shop.
Some other Council members said they were already very familiar the facility.
Member Mosley proposed an Open House workshop on Wednesday at 1PM. This requires making an announcement that it is a public meeting.
Resolution 2023-11 approves an Economic Development Service Contract between the City of Maumelle and Metro Little Rock Alliance (MLRA).
This is an ongoing contract that has been renewed on a yearly basis.
Mister Chesser from the MLRA gave an address to the Council. He announced that a resident of Maumelle is now a member of the
MLRA administration. Scholastic is currently investigating a site adjacent to the Tractor Supply Distribution Center site.
He felt the success of landing the Tractor Supply put an emphasis on identifying new sites in order to land more projects to
be located in Maumelle. City Employee Courtney Dunn is leading a program that targets deal makers and industry experts and educates
them about the opportunities to be had by locating in Maumelle. MRLA also provides database analytics about the workforces available
in the area to prospective employers.
Council Member Mosley asked about chain restaurants inquiries. Mister Chesser said it was usually more a matter of the MLRA contacting them.
The Resolution was approved unanimously.
Resolution 2023-12 amends the 2023 General Fund Budget to appropriate funds to the Police Department for Police Vehicle Insurance.
There was a police car involved in an accident and this applied the insurance reimbursement to the budget. The Resolution passed unanimously.
The influx of visitors expected for the 2024 Solar Eclipse was discussed.
Council Member Gardner wanted talk about the potential.
I asked Chief Pickard about if his department felt the Council needed to re-address the question about regulating local airbnbs.
He said that this was a problem during Covid, but there had only been a couple of instances of disturbances since that time.
Council member Gardner said that the State is currently considering a bill that would strip Cities of the right to administrate local regulations.
City Attorney Thornton said this amendment, if passed, would require airbnbs be administrated like a regular residence.
Mayor Norris announced that Maumelle was once again designated as a Tree City.
He also wished a happy birthday to Chief of Staff Grelen.
Member Norris asked about if anyone had heard anyone asking about convening a meeting about private parking. None one had.
City Clerk Timmons mentioned that Planning Commissioner Landis had resigned, and we also have several opening on the Tree Board.
She also welcomed Christina Russell as the new Deputy City Clerk and that her department is now fully staffed.
March 6, 2023 Update
The March 6, 2023 meeting of the Maumelle City Council finally broke our several-year long streak of absenteeism.
We had full attendance by all Council members, so all unanimous votes will show a count of 8.
The new Finance Director Beatrice Sussa was introduced. She has 22 years of experience in the Miami area.
Outgoing Finance Director Liz Mathis gave the Financial Report. She is continuing to assist the City during the transition.
The City is currently over $8.3 million over the required minimum balance.
Council Member Gronwald gave the Planning Commission Report. None of the items discussed are coming before the Council
Ordinance 1085 to annex the lands contiguous to and adjoining the City, known as Ascent Development Property, had its third reading.
Council member Mosley asked if annexing this area might affect getting Short Marche opened back up to the public.
Eric Holloway said it might move us “closer to that reality,” but probably not at this time.
Planning and Permits Director Grummer said that proper notice was given to the residents and there was no opposition,
other than hunters who were not happy about no longer being able to hunt there. All the property is vacant and the majority in flood plain.
There are no imminent plans for development now or in the future for the property.
The Ordinance passed by a unanimous vote.
Ordinance 1086 had its third reading to amend the Maumelle Land Use Plan for the property in the previous Ordinance from
from ETJ (Extra Territorial Jurisdiction) to O-S (Open Space) and SUR Special Use Residential). The majority of the property
has a stream running through the middle of it. The Ordinance passed by a unanimous vote.
Ordinance 1087 had its third reading to amend the Maumelle Zoning Map for the previously discussed area previously designated as
County and change it to O-S (Open Space), FW (Flood Way), and PRD (Planned Residential District). The Ordinance passed by a unanimous vote.
Ordinance 1088 had its second reading to amend the Competitive Bidding and Purchasing procedures.
Council Member Mosley confirmed with the City Attorney that is a requirement by State Law.
Resolution 2023-05 amends the 2023 Drug Control Fund Budget to appropriate funds for the purchase of a license plate reader system.
These are search and seizure confiscated monies, and the police department requested an appropriateion of $60,000.
Council member Mazzoni confirmed with Chief Pickard that his is a one time expense.
Council member Holt confirmed that these would be placed at the entrances to Maumelle to watch for stolen vehicles or
vehicles involved in an Amber alert. Once one is recognized an alert would be given.
Council member Mosley confirmed how the system takes a pciture of the license plate, and an officer then must verofy
and then an immediate alert would go out to all vehicles. The readers will only be at the entrances and exits.
Chief Pickard assured member Mosley that this would not be a situation of “Big Brother,” and that there are stiff penalties for misuse.
The system has been approved by the ACLU.
Member Holt confirmed that the vehicles would be read when exited.
Chief Pickard said it would give the police another investigative tool in the case of felonies committed in.
It will take a picture of every vehicle entering or leaving the city.
Council member Mazzoni confirmed that only license plates would be collected and kept in a database for 150 days,
and would only go to police in the case of an incident.
Chief Pickard gave an example of a recent apprehension that only occurred because officers were in the vicinity,
but in the future the system would help when they are not. The system is designed for immediate circumstances,
not to build a database of activities and movements. State law require that it only be kept for 150 days, unless tied to a case.
Council member Mosley made a motion to table the measure until next the next meeting.
Council member Shinn asked about where the police would keep the information.
Chief Pickard confirmed that the system could not be used by repo companies.
Council member Gardner asked about details in the areas that state law made this not usable by FOIA.
He also asked Chief Pickard about how Conway, Mayflower, the City of North Little Rock, and the County are already reading license plates,
but Maumelle does not have access to this information until the equipment upgrade is made.
The Mayor confirmed that a lot of equipment the City has been purchasing has been designed to work seamlessly with the cities of
North Little Rock and Sherwood.
City Attorney Thornton said that the Freedom of Information Act is addressed under state law does put restrictions on accessing
captured plate data, and would not be disclosable under FOIA. If we received a supenoea, that might be a different situation.
The images themselves would have restrictions on who could see them. The number of images taken would be a public record,
but not the actual images themselves.
Council member Holt asked about missed opportunities due to not having the equipment, and should the public be informed.
City Attorney Thornton said member Holt could ask people what they thought, but the City was not required to put up signage.
Stolen vehicles, outstanding warrants, missing children, amber alears, and ongoing criminal investigations are the accepted
useages of the information being gathered by the license plate readers.
Chief Pichard said the majority of crime in Maumelle is property crime, and most vehicles stolen in Maumelle begin with another vehicle
stolen in another jurisdiction and driven into Maumelle, and then another vehicle was stolen. With the system they would now know in
advance that a criminal in a stolen vechicle had entered the city.
Council member Gronwald confirmed that these are activities that are already being done, and this is a measure to make the City safer
and the job of our officers a little easier. She advocated public disclosure, but feels that the Council had been elected to make these
kind of decisions to keep the City safe.
Council member Williams likes the sharing of information with other cities and making the jobs of police easier. We’re already tracked
by our cell phones, so she felt that the safety factor was something we cannot say No to.
Council member Mosley again stated how he was in favor of tabling the matter.
Council member Shinn asked if three years from now we might be tracking expired tags.
Chief Pickard said the system cannot do that.
Council member Gronwald spoke about how she had been a victim of this type of crime and supported this proposal completely.
I shared a story about how when I was thinking about moving into Maumelle, a customer said he’d never live in Maumelle because
if a crime were committed in it, they could block off the city and capture them. I replied that he had talked me into moving here,
and completely advocated the police having the ability to be proactive rather than only reactive. We want Maumelle to be considered
off-limits to thieves.
Mayor Norris talked about crimes that could have been solved years ago if we had this type of system previously, and that the Police Chief
had worked very hard to make certain civil liberties were protected. He reiterated that this was a vote on the budget, and not on the
usage policy. Before the system is put into service a full policy will be in place. He discussed previous policies dealing with things
like police body cameras.
The motion to table the vote failed by a vote of 5 to 3.
The motion to pass the resolution succeeded by a vote of 6 to 2.
Resolution 2023-06 amends the 2023 Grant Fund Budget for an all-inclusive playground. The Grant Fund was set up to separate out monies
targeted for grants away from the General Fund. This is a grant with the State of Arkansas for the All Inclusive playground. She felt that
when grant funds are accepted, then these types of funds should be set up. This is a $300,000 transfer that includes a $240,000 grant that
was already planned. The resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 2023-07 amends the 2023 General Fund Budget related to salaries in the Planning and Permits Department. There was a salary
discrepancy in the budget of $1,030 that this resolves. The Resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 2023-08 amends the 2023 General Fund Budget related to salaries in the Finance Department. This deals with the transition between
Finance Directors, and enables the City to compensate Ms. Mathis as she continues to work for the City during the transition.
The Resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 2023-09 deals with Audit Procedures requiring an annual audit for 2022 to be performed by Forvis, LLP, in accordance with the
guidelines and format prescribed by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. This is an annual requirement.
Council member Mosley discussed the services the new auditors are doing that previous auditors did not do, and how they provide more
assistance that had not previously been included.
The Mayor commented about how the audit is more of a year round partnership that inovlves training to help avoid mistakes being made.
Ms. Mathis talked about how the rules and standards are continuing to change. As the standards change, Forvis has been a good partner
in how and what information to gather. She feels it is a good relationship between auditor and City.
The Resolution passed by a unanimous vote.
Resolution 2023-10 amends the 2023 General Fund Budget to appropriate additional funds for Auditing services. This is to appropriate $7000 for
additional audit help that the City hopes it does not need. In the event that the change in Director’s runs into any snags, the money
will be in place to hire assistance from the auditors.
Council member Mosley felt being proactive was a good idea. He doesn’t want to fall behind, and likes how we have been catching up on our audits.
Ms. Mathis explained other steps involved in creating audits. She supported adding funds to help in case it is needed.
Ms Mathis explained that it is permissible for auditors to write reports, but cannot prepare the financial data that goes into the report.
A new lease between the City and Team Summit/Timmons Arts Art Foundation was discussed. for the City Park property known as Park on the River.
On November 5, 2015, a five year lease was signed by former Mayor Watson for a charge of $1000 a month plus paying all utilities,
taxes, and 25% of all revenues generated by events held on the property. Residents of Maumelle were also eligible to lease the property at
a discounted rate of $800 per day, as opposed to the normal $1200 charge—plus clean up and security. That lease had an option for renewal,
but no new formal arrangement was made after its expiration.
Mister Mosley asked for Ms. Timmons in the audience to be given a copy of a sheet given to all the Council members. He then gave a brief
history about how Burch Johnson encouraged the Council to buy a property on the river and made it an Event Center. The first contract was
with Ms. Timmons back in 2006, and renewed in the agreement on November 5, 2015, discussed above. The initial term expired in 2020, then
covid came along and revenues stopped. The City has continued to allow Team Summit exclusive use of the property, but was no longer collecting
rent on the property, resulting in significant losses to the City on an annual basis
In 2020 and 2033 the losses from the unitility expenses were approxiamately $10,000 each year, and 2021 showed a loss of $15,000.
Ms. Mathis mentioned how the finance department was getting behind on things at that time and never caught up. When Ms. Mathis came in,
she was told not to bill Summit for the utilities. Starting in 2020 no more billing was sent to Summit. Summit has paid any invoices sent to them.
The form provided to the Council showed no revenues paid to the city for the years of 2020 through 2022.
Mayor Norris that the contact was considered to have expired.
Ms Timmons discussed the original agreement, and how they have paid everything they were billed. Covid shut everything down and she lost
the person who was running the center. She was paying someone to clean it every week. Monday through Thursday it was open for Maumelle
charities to use if they wanted. She said in 2022 things began to pick up sporadicly, and in 2023 she had about 15 events booked, and 3 for next year.
What she wanted to happen was another contract for two years at the same rate, and to see what happens after that. She expressed concerns about
new venues opening in competition. She once asked to buy the property, but was told it could not be sold because it was a park. She felt it was
the best place in the state, and did not think the city should sell. She then spoke about her own charity work.
Member Mosley asked how many events happened in the years between 2020 to 22, and she replied about six, and said she is still paying for poeple
to clean the interior the property. Parks and Recreation has maintained the exterior.
Mayor Norris talked about how this was a unique arrangement with the city that had slipped through the cracks. It is not a profitable endeavor
for the City. The options are to renew it, or something completely different. He said several more times about how it is not profitable.
Ms. Timmons said she has invested around $30,000 in the property.
Council member Gronwald talked about how she has used the property and that it has “an insanely beautiful view of the river.” She sees it as a
partnership, and considers it something that attracts people to the city of Maumelle. She wanted to see more people use it.
Council member Gardner felt it would be efficient for the Mayor to negotiate with Team Simmons and come back tot he Council with a proposal.
He asked if State Law required a bidding process for proposals.
Council member Mosley asked how many events Team Summit had held in a good year.
Ms. Timmons said an event is an event whether it’s paid or not paid. In a good year it was about 20 event, which included Non-paying events
like the City or the Chamber of Commerce using it.
Council member Holt said it was an understatement about the property being unprofitable. He is vehemently opposed to any new contract being proposed,
and that the city is not a charity organization, so this property needs to be utitlized in a way that turns the City a profit. It needs to either be sold
or used in a way that benefits the City. He considers it to be a financial travesty. He wants to see any agreement in advance, and how the property
can be made profitable. He considers it the most beautiful property in the county.
Council member Mazzoni agreed that we need to consider other options before agreeing to another contract. He wants to know what the other options
might be to benefit the city.
Member Mosley echoed his agreement with members Holt and Mazzonii. He had asked Ms Dunn and Mr. Raborn to share their thoughts on how the property
should be used.
City employee Courtney Dunn said we do not need to sell the property, and thanked Ms Timmons for all the work she does for the community.
Ms. Dunn also discussed about how the entrance to the Park on the River will be on the incoming Greenway, and could be used as a visitor center
and sell Maumelle merchandise. Add parks ammeties and more picnic tables and the Maumelle Chamber of Commerce could help run the visitor center.
Member Mosley suggested renting it as a restaurant. Ms. Dunn said it would make an amazing restaurant.
Mayor Norris said the building is no longer equipped for a restaurant.
Ms. Dunn advocated keeping it a public park.
Mr. Raborn of Parks and Recreations said if it was put into his deparment, their job is to provide a service, without the intent of
generating a profit. It has flooded three times, so he suggested nothing going on the lower level, because the pier and fence have been
refurbished/replaced twice. There is a bike path connected to it, and there is a wooded area that could be made into a bicycle park as part
of the incoming Greenway. When it was first purchased, there was no plan and it was never turned over to the Parks Department, but they do
take care of it. They couldn’t provide the whole package like Timmons does. They could rent the space, but others were have to handle the
other services. They would treat it like the Pavillion at Lake Willastein. They are not wedding planners.
City Attorney Thornton felt that federal grants may have prevented selling the property, but selling the house separately could be a possibility.
Council member Shinn asked for a platt of the layout.
I suggested putting food trucks there.
Council member Holt discussed the license plate process, and that he was disappointed that the information was not given to us in advance.
I asked about the progress in getting bids for building a roundabout at the intersection of Club Manor and South Odom Blvd. Mayor Norris had no news to report, but said he would be working on it.
I asked Fire Chief Buford about about the City’s preparedness in the event of a train derailment such as what happened in East Palestine.
He said the North Little Rock has a hazmat response team in place should an event occur in Maumelle, and that they could track gases.
We have automatic aid agreement with North Little Rock, and he is building the ermergencey reponse infrastructure in Maumelle.
There is NLR a fire station with hazmat response capabilities in Burns Park that could help us in partnership.
He is also trained on that technology. They can read what is in the air and where it is going in order to direct any evacuations.
He is working on an evacuation plan, and is dividing the city into zones. The current lack of a plan is a weakness he has identified.
I also inquired about areas in Maumelle where the rail lines crossed with gas lines and oil lines, and he felt we had no exposure there,
but that was place with such a concern nearby in North Little Rock.
Council Member Mosley discussed the Maumelle Country Club event center, and inquired about putting up No Parking signs in certain areas,
and asked to call a meeting of the Traffic Commiette to address the possibility.
Council member Shinn asked about the imminent domain proceeding on the White Oaks roundabout. The judge has set a hearing date.
Council member Mosley talked about flooding over in Country Club, and how the City has determined the problem is backwater from the bayou
and nothing can be done until house flooding occurred. One resident has been offered drainage with the City paying 75% of the expenses.
Member Mosley said on January 20th a Maumelle woman was attacked by a dog she was either adopting or fostering and had to flee her house.
The Fire Department rendered first aid and the police department assisted animal control in capturing her dogs. The woman was reported
to have had a broken arm, but no other details were known. He felt this attack happened because the ban on pit bulls had been lifted.
The Mayor determined that member Mosley was calling for a street committee meeting for an area outside of his ward,
and someone from either Ward 2 or 3, or the Mayor, would be required to call it. No one did.
February 26, 2023 Update
Maumelle has a large number of Senior Citizens on Social Security, so as a public service I thought I'd share the Social Security Administration'supcoming Stop the Scam Day on March 9th.
If you are ever a victim of a suspected scam, you cann click on the image above to be taken directly to the SSA Administration page to file a report.
February 21, 2023 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council continued the several year-long streak of absenteeism due to a variety of reasons.
The meeting opened with a recognition ceremony to honor the late Sergeant Joshua Caudell of the Arkansas Department of Corrections,
who gave his life in the line of duty just outside the city limits on February 28, 2022, when he and several members of the
Maumelle Police Depart were assisting Pulaski County sheriff’s deputies search for a man suspected of shooting at them.
Sergeant Caudell was doing a welfare check at a residence where his service dog had tracked the suspect when shot.
Pastor Chris Perry of Christ Church addressed the officers and representatives of the Corrections Department who attended to honor Sergeant Caudell.
Mayor Norris read a proclamation and Chief Pickard presented the flag flown at half mast on the day of his passing to Sergeant Caudill’s family,
as well as a Challenge Medallion from the Maumelle Police Department.
The room as a whole stood and applauded the Caudell family in Thank You for their sacrifice.
Finance Director Liz Mathis gave a financial statement. The 2022 preliminary audit report showed overall revenues for the year to be
$5.1 million ahead of the budget and $4.4 million more than the prior year. A good chunk of this was from an excess of $3.5 million
deposited into the General Fund after the Crystal Hill road improvement bond debt was retired last year.
Ms. Mathis has also submitted her notice of resignation, as she has taken another opportunity in the private sector.
A search for her replacement has already begun.
Ordinance 1085 had its second reading to Annex the Ascent Development Property land into the City of Maumelle.
Ordinance 1086 had its second reading to amend the Maumelle Land Use plant from ETJ (Extra Terrirtorial Jurisdiction) to O-S (Open Space)
and SUR (Special Use Residential).
Ordinance 1087 had its second reading to amend Maumelle Zoninng, changing an area previously designated as County of Open Space, Flood Way,
and PRD (Planned Residental District).
Ordinance 1088 had its first reading to amend the competitiv3e bidding and purchasing procedures.
This was an ordinance proposed by City Attorney Andrew Thornton. He proposed changing the old limit required for bidding
from $20,000 to $30,000. State law has also been changed to allow the City Council to waive the bidding process by a Resoltuion, as opposed to the
current practice of an Ordinance that require three readings.
Council Member Gardner confirmed how the Council will be required by State law to pass a new ordinance on this procedure every five years.
Council Member Mosley had requested a discussion on the current Park on the River contract, but given his
absence due to illness, a motion was made to table this matter to a future meeting.
The Mayor thanked Jay Greelan, assistant to the Mayor, for his work on arranging tonight’s tribute to officer Caudell,
and expressed his appreciation for how law enforcement officers risk their lives to protect our community.
February 6, 2023 Update
The Maumelle Fire Department Honor Guard presented the flags at a ceremony held today at the Odom Community Center.
Fire Marshal Scott Eaton gave an Invocation and Mayor Norris gave a congradulatory speech as Darron Pitchford was promoted to Captain.
He was pinned by his wife, London.
Three new Lieutenants positions were approved by the City Council during this years budget meetings, and they were also promoted today.
Erik Fulton was promoted to Lieutenant. He was pinned by his wife, Hope.
Cole Schichtl was promoted to Lieutenant. He was pinned by his mother, Becky Starr.
Isaac Young was promoted to Lieutenant. He was pinned by his wife, Kristen.
Also celebrated today was Firefighter Alex Hronas completing his one year internship. He was pinned by his girlfriend, Brittany Hammock.
The ceremony closed with the Firefighter's Prayer:
When I am called to duty, God, whenever flames may rage;
give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age.
Help me embrace a little child before it is too late.
or save an older person from the horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout.
and quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me,
to guard my every neighbor and protect his property.
And if, according to your will, I must answer death's call;
please bless with your protecting hand
my family one and all.
Author Unknown
Fire Marshal Scott Eaton gave an Invocation and Mayor Norris gave a congradulatory speech as Darron Pitchford was promoted to Captain.
He was pinned by his wife, London.
Three new Lieutenants positions were approved by the City Council during this years budget meetings, and they were also promoted today.
Erik Fulton was promoted to Lieutenant. He was pinned by his wife, Hope.
Cole Schichtl was promoted to Lieutenant. He was pinned by his mother, Becky Starr.
Isaac Young was promoted to Lieutenant. He was pinned by his wife, Kristen.
Also celebrated today was Firefighter Alex Hronas completing his one year internship. He was pinned by his girlfriend, Brittany Hammock.
The ceremony closed with the Firefighter's Prayer:
When I am called to duty, God, whenever flames may rage;
give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age.
Help me embrace a little child before it is too late.
or save an older person from the horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout.
and quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me,
to guard my every neighbor and protect his property.
And if, according to your will, I must answer death's call;
please bless with your protecting hand
my family one and all.
Author Unknown
February 6, 2023 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council was once again one member short.
All unanimous votes will count as 7 to 1 as the extremely long consecutive streak of absenteeism continues.
A representative of the firm making the 2020 audit gave a presentation of their findings. The 2020 numbers
involved a lot of cleanup as we switched Financial Directors and made a number of changes in the operation
of the Finance Department. There were a number of one-time items charged that will not reflect on future years.
Other items that were not properly charged and recorded in prior years that were corrected in 2020.
A clean opinion was issued on the City’s funds balances and operations. There was no modification in that clean opinion.
There were notes made about how the Financial staff was previously too small, but that has been corrected since then.
Their judgement that estimates of our audits and disclosures did not require any adjustment, while some adjustments
that were made actually applied to previous years and were handled with the 2020 numbers.
Feduciary activities have been properly recorded and no issues were found.
I confirmed that on the matter of significant deficiencies had all been discussed in his presentation.
Council Member Mosley confirmed that previous audits had been completed an no further issues existed from them.
The Mayor complimented Council Member Gardner for the last meeting having been efficient during his abscnce for that session.
Financial Director Liz Mathis said that the Finance Report is still being closed out for 2022 and only waiting on a
few bits of information. We should have that and the January report by the next meeting.
She also added that one of definciencies in the audit report was how she previously had been required to do double duties,
but no longer did.
Council Member Gardner said the Planning Commission meeting lasted around three and a half hours. The Krash Activity Center
had both measures approved and passed to the Council. Other issues involving in tonight’s council meeting all received Do Pass
recomendations from the Planning Commission.
Two seats on Planning Commission were voted on. The candidates were Wes Booker, Hall Ramsey, and Tracy Gill. Wes Booker and
Hall Ramsey, whose term is expiring, were both unable to attend. Tracy Gill was present and interviewed with the council.
Council Member Mosley commented about how he had talked with Mister Gill previously about the considerable amount of time
required to properly do the job. Mister Gill commented about how crucial thes meetings were to attend.
The first vote had 4 votes for Mister Ramsey, and the Mayor voted to give him a majority win.
The second vote for the second position elected Mister Gill to the seat.
We thank Mister Booker for his application and his interest in serving the City.
Resolution 2023-01 approves a conditional use permit for Krash Events Enterprises, LLC for the operation of an event center
in an area zoned PCD (Planned Commercial District). This event center is located within and surrounded by the Maumelle Country
Club was previously approved. This is for a proposed 2,000 square foot expansion and a new layout design. When the original
plan was approved, there were no objections from the public and the Country Club issued a letter of support. The approval
was based on the cooperation between the Country Club and Krash Events. The proposed expansion was different, as I received
numerous complaints and emails of opposition to the proposed expansion.
There were a number of public comments, but Director of Planning Mister Scott Grummer gave a presentation first. During the
time since this project was first approved there were a total of 18 public hearings held on this issue. The main change is
in the name to Krash from North Wind Holdings, a PCD condition was removed because the property had already been converted
to the PCD zoning. The last event dealt the shared parking spaces between the Event Center and the Maumelle Country Club.
Previously there were 42 statements of support and 52 in opposition. Since then a petition has been signed in opposition.
What was approved by the Planning Commission was the variant for overflow parking and to allow for distance between that
shared parking to be extended to include the Country Club parking.
The first public comment was by Jerry Parker. He thanked Brent Ashcraft and Chris for the way they had worked with the residents
on the concerns of the community. He was concerned about how the Center got so far into development without the community
being properly notified. People beyond the 300 required feet had no idea of what was happening. He felt there was a potential
for disruption in their lives and felt the rules of notification about rezoning should be changed.
Jodie Parker also expressed appreciation of Mister Ashcraft’s group and their willingness to work with the residents and address
their concerns. She thanked the Commissioners, Mister Grummer, and Council Member Mosley for their assistance.
Keith Brine stated his opposition to the Center, and how he is filled with dread about how the Center will overlook his property.
He said he also has hope from the meetings he has had with representatives, Brent and Chris, but still has concerns over the
headlights from the traffic.
Mike Holliday said he has no issue with developers, but does have an issue with the Country Club and how they have created
a rift within the community by claimed to represent their interests, when in fact they were not.
Brent Ashcraft talked about how ugly the conversations started on this matter, but had evolved over time as discussions were
held with residents. The residents had issued their concerns, and how they felt that the Center was only serving the Country
Club’s interests. He pledged, whether this was approved or not, that he would continued to work with the community. He vowed to
always be a good neighbor to the residents and the City. He said the floor plan was increased to add a second room as part of
their ignition to host weddings, not tough man conents or job fairs. With one room was intended to have a ceremonies on one side,
and also to allow for storage to reduce the number of vendor trucks coming in and out. The name change still involved the
same people. He also commented about how the parking agreement that this project hinged on had been committed with the
Country Club to allow for shared parking.
Member Mosley commented about how this new plan is intended to have no increase in impact on the community, and how he has
met with both the owners and the residents who had concerns about these changes. Music, lighting, and many concerns were discussed.
If he had not had those meetings, he would have been a strictly No vote. But by implementing restrictions on capacity and total
parking would make him more likely to vote Yes. He also suggested that the rest of the Council take the same tour he had taken.
Council Member Gardner did not feel that taking another two weeks would help. He had already taken the tour that Member
Mosley had taken. He confirmed with Mister Grummer that the plan had already suggested the limit of a 400 person capacity occupancy.
He did mention that they could request to increase it to 500 in the future. The change of the development plan included Exhibit B
and others to amend the body of the resolution would accomplish his limits on parking.
Member Gardner also mentioned that this is a better plan than the previous one, shifting the building further away from residents.
The footprint of the building did not change that much, with a lot of the extra space in the increase being part of the storage
on a new, lower level.
Member Shinn mentioned his concerns about a large wedding occurring at the same time as a large wedding, and the potential demand
on the parking.
Brent Ashcraft said they would not be using the facility during scheduled events for the Country Club, and that their events
would be scheduled later in the day. Mister Ashcraft said he is the Acting Tournament Chair for the Country Club, and would
work to avoid capacity conflicts. He would be improving the lot so greatly that it would no longer include a gravel lot that could
be crowded by several trucks.
Member Gronwald said she had seen a lot of concerns on social media, and had watched as Mister Ashcraft had patiently talked
with the community and addressed their concerns. As a non-profit professional she felt that placing tree lines could address the
issues of car light and could see this Center as “working out,” and how Maumelle does not have venues like this. She also commented
about how the Center would be imposing their own curfew on events.
Member Holt talked about how his Ward will not be affecting the residents of his Ward. He talked about how his emails did not match the
enthusiasm he had heard from those who had made public comments at the meeting. He did not want to feel like he was bullying
those who were opposed to the venue.
Member Gardner addressed Mister Holt’s concerns, and about how many people were opposed to an Event Center, period. He felt that
if we did not pass the revised plan, then the event center would be built closer to people's houses. He summed this as being a
choice between being smaller and closer to homes, or a larger and a better design further away from housing. He also acknowledged
that the notification system had failed to properly notified residents, many of whom are completely opposed to the Center.
But that part has already been approved. He felt the new plan would work better for both the residents and applicant.
Member Shinn agreed with what Member Gardner said. He also commented about how the support from the Country Club had been
misrepresented to us in the past during the initial approval, and that they did not have the support of the members that was
claimed previously. He also noticed that none of the folks who had made those representations were in attendance at this meeting.
Member Williams agreed with Mister Gardner about how this was already approved, But she wanted to address the notification
system moving forward, and that it needed to be extamined. She also did not want to delay the vote and wanted to move it forward.
Mister Mosley felt that the Council should not have rezoned this property in the first place. He felt that was a error.
He felt the council is between a rock and a hard place, trying to make the best of a bad situation, and how the
failure of the notification system had created much of the current problem.
Mayor Norris said he talked with the City Attorny about requiring an Advisory Board, but the City Attorney did not feel that
it was appropriate as a condition on a conditional use, and did not feel the Council had the authority to add that as a requirement.
Mister Ashcraft pledged an open line of communication with his neighbors.
Member Mosley made a motion that the vote be deferred for two weeks.
The City Attorney cautioned that no more than one Council member could tour the site at the same time without a public
notice being given first.
Member Gardner opposed Mister Shinn’s support of delaying it, citing that the conditions that Mister Mosley had suggested
were already being addressed. Mister Gardner reitterized that he had other concerns like the lighting, which Member Gronwald
said she had felt those had already been addressed.
Mister Ashcraft commented how his lighting was determined by City ordinance, and their goal was to look like part of the Country Club.
They would be using low level lighting, and any high level lights would be aimed at the ground.
The proposal to delay the vote failed by a vote of 5 to 2.
When I came to this meeting, I was fairly certain that I would be voting No on this issue. However, after considering the overall
impact on the community, decided that these changes would be in the better interest of the community than the previous plan.
Member Mosley made a motion to limit capacity to 400 persons. I seconded the motion. Mister Grummer confirmed that the plan
currently shows 500, and that it did need to be changed by agreement with the applicant. He felt it would be a stronger
change to be made at this point.
Member Williams confirmed that adding this material change would still allow the matter to be voted on tonight.
The motion to change capacity from 500 to 400 passed unanimously.
Member Mosley also proposed that all events be contained inside the building as opposed to allowing outdoor events.
Member Gardner opposed that suggestion, feeling that weddings should be allow to go outside and “Enjoy the beautiful view
of the Arkansas River.” Member Mosley clarified that he was more concerned about indoor events as opposed to outdoor concerts.
The City Attorney said that any restrictions would need to be more clearly stated, and that leaving vague areas could create
problems with enforcement, so Member Mosley withdrew this suggestion.
Member Mosley then made a motion to prohibit, concerts, sporting events, and expos. This motion failed for lack of a second.
Member Mosley then commented that he trusted Mister Ashcraft to work with the neighbors.
The Resoltuion passed by a unanimous vote.
Resolution 2023-02 approve the new preliminary development plan for Venue 10 event center in City of Maumelle.
Mayor Norris asked to amend the Reolsution to add extra Exhibits. The Exhibits motion passed unanimously.
Member Mosley made a motion to add the condition to provide the screening be added to avoid light pollution. I seconded the motion.
Member Gardner felt this was unnecessary. Mister Grummer said it would help require the changes by putting it into the plan.
Mayor Norris also said it would strengthen the plan to include the condition, and supported having it added. Member Gardner still
felt it would be better to have staff handle this. Member Mosley asked for the Mayor’s thoughts, and he said he trusted Mister
Grummer’s thoughts wholeheartedly.
Mister Ashcraft said the point Member Mosley made was a point that was a concern of the residents, and he supported making the motion
read however it needed to be stated. He would not resist any changes made to shield residents from light pollution.
Member Williams supported avoiding redundancy.
Mayor Norris said she was right, but he disagreed on this particular situation and felt it would instill confidence in the public.
Mister Grummer felt that the change would give him the authority to make those decisions.
By saying it, the Council gave him the authority that would help with his enforcement.
The motion to provide appropriate screening to avoid light polition passed by a vote of Six to One (member Gardner).
Member Grunwald wanted to make sure that the Country Club was also held to the same standards,
since they would share the same parking lot. That was a good point on her part.
Member Mosley made one last motion about posting No Parking signs along Park Drive.
Mister Grummer said that was out of bounds since that was not part of the development plan.
Since this was a public street that motion would go to the Parking Committee. Member Mosley withdrew his motion.
Member Gardner asked if we had the authority over a private section of the street.
Mayor Norris confirmed that the City did not have that authority.
Member Mosley expressed his support of the Resolution.
The amended Resolution passed unanimously.
The Mayor thanked the residents and the property owner for working together on what could have been a confrontation matter.
Ordinance 1085 had its first reading dealing with the proposal to accept lands known as Acsent Properties which are
contiguous to and adjoining the City of Maumelle, Arkansas. The parcel is located near White Oak Crossing and Short Marche.
It is mostly un-developable, being inside the flood plain, but there is a short section fronting Short Marche that might
be developed in the future.
Member Mosley asked what the benefits were to annex to Maumelle REsidents.
Eric Holloway said there would be no plans to develop until the road someday is opened to provide access to the third
interstate entrance. He does not want the property to be clear-cut for timber, and to have the city offer protection from hunters
who currently use the trails. As part of the County, he can not stop the hunting. By bieng part of the City this could be stopped.
Member Mosley asked if the property could be turned to a park. Mister Holloway said that in the County the trees could be cut down
to within six inches of the ground. By adding it to the City it would stop this from happening.
He would love to have park trails on the land and it be opened up to the public, and White Oak Bayou goes right up to the middle of the property.
Mayor Norris commented about how the bulk of the property could become protected wetlands and used an an offset by the
owner for developing other property he owned in North Little Rock.
Mayor Norris also said that annexing in the land, the City could protect the trees in ways that the County does not.
He also joked about how you won’t be hearing Mister Holloway being excited about the City’s Timber Management Plan ever again.
This was the first of three readings.
Ordinance 1086 amends the current Land Use Plan for the property discussed in Ordinance 1085 from ETJ
(Extra Territorial Jurisdiction) to O-S (Open Space) and SUR (Special Use Residential).
Mister Grummer explained about how this is floodway and open space for the majority of this property.
Ordinance 1087 amends the current Zoning Map previously designated as County is hereby changed to T= O-S (Open Space),
FW (Flood Way), and PRD (Planned Residential District). This was the first reading.
Resolution 2023-03 approves a preliminary development plan for Phase 1 and 2 Cypress Bend at Maumelle Crossing.
Mister Grummer said this property has been back and forth to the Planning Commission and the Council several times.
The recommendation of the Commission was that a higher square footage minimum of 1500 square foot be required.
Member Mosley opposed allowing the developer to ignore that recommendation, and opposed it.
Member Gardner questioned if the City could legally require the buildings to have a minimum of 1500 square feet.
Eric Holloway said this is PRD, so that it is debatable on if the City can restrict the types of buildings.
He felt imposing the restrictions such as requiring all brick would keep the property from ever being built.
They wanted to have the option of building 1000 square feet and RI restrictions.
The City Attorney said the restrictions were arguable, but that there are exceptions.
They Mayor said this would not be a contract with the City, but it would give the next City Council more teeth
if the issue were to arrive with the maintenance of the park areas in the proposal.
It would give the City the option to step in and accept responsibility.
A motion was made to approve the Resoltuion as proposed by the Planning Commission.
Member Mosley opposed the Resolution because of the square footage.
Holloway said that people would not buy properties based on the suggested restriction.
The motion passed by a vote of 6 to 1.
Resolution 2023-04 amends the 2023 General Fund Budget to cover costs related to a new Evaporator coil for the rooftop heat and air unit
at the Police Department. This is a rotation of monies from the police fund to building repairs for expenses over $800.
City Offices will be closed February 20, so the next meeting of the Council will be held on the 21st.
Member Holt pointed out what he thought was an oversight in today’s agenda. He felt that the name change for Krash had not happened.
Mayor Norris said it was not a separate motion, and the name change was approved with the Resoltuion for the amended application.
Member Mosley asked for an update on Crystal Hill road.
Mister Andrews said he had spoken to the contractor today about why the road was not yet completed. Delays had been encountered
with the freezing temperatures and rain, but putting in driveways were next. Earthworks are nearly done, then the curb will be
done on the river side and the pathways installed. Then this long overdue renonvation will finally be completed.
January 26, 2023 Update
For a second time, Maumelle City Hall hosted third grade students from Maumelle and North Little Rock.They were given tours of the different departments, and conducted mock City Council meetings, assisted
by Mayor Norris, City Clerk Timmons, and Councilman Gardner and myself.
Unlike last time, where one of the two mock councils voted down a proposed playground, this time both
councils approved the measure!
As you can see by the photo, a wonderful time was had by both the students and their hosts!
January 20, 2023 Update
Attended a State and Local Officials Webinar yesterday on the subject ofU.S. Preparedness for Nuclear and Radiological Disasters, hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations.
The topic was the U.S. preparedness in the event of nuclear or readiological disasters.
As always, I share all the notes I take on my website, and I've got to say that the plan for a
nuclear event isn't much different from when I was a kid during the Missles of October crisis
with President Kennedy in the 1960s, when we were told by our teachers that the most effective
defense was to duck beneath our desks.
The Council acknowledged that the old plan was useless, and advised that the way to prepare today
for a nuclear event is the same way that you prepare for a natural disaster.
Stock up on plenty of food and water.
It was also discussed that if there were a target in the U.S. that Russia wanted to hit,
they've had that ability for decades, and that the new threat of their recently developed
hypersonic missiles is "more about fear" than it is a new strike capability.
Obviously, the hot top concerned the potential for a neclear event focussed on the Ukraine,
and three scenarios were discussed.
Scenario One: Russian has not tested a nuclear device since the 1980s, and they might do so
again simply to scare the world.
Scenario Two: Russian might use a small bomb on the battlefield in Easter Ukraine.
The problem with this would be the resulting creation of No Man's Land and radioactive dead zones.
Scenario Three: Targeting Civilians.
While this is considered unlikely, Russian has repeatedly targeted civilians with
traditional missles.
In the event of a nuclear detonation, the chances of fallout reaching the United States
is small and would depend on atmospheric conditions.
The United States is in communications with Russian to state that a nuclear detonation would
be crossing a Red Line, without providing any specifics about what our response might be.
Attendees to the meeting were promised that contact numbers to FEMA and other agencies
would be forwarded to us following the meeting, but a day later that still has not yet happened.
January 17, 2023 Update
This week’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council continued its long streak of being short-handed.
One Council person was absent due to a family emergency, and Mayor Norris was also absent with a prior commitment,
so council member Chad Gardner served as his president pro tem replacement.
Kelly Wall was introduced as the new Executive Director of the Maumelle Chamber of Commerce.
During the days she is the chef at Sugar Rush Snowballs.
Ms. Mathis was closing out the year end books, so the financial report is delayed.
Mrs. Alex Sims was nominated to the Central Arkansas Library System Board of Trustees.
She is a five year resident, and introduced herself to the council.
She was elected unanimously.
City Attorney Thornton announced that the City had filed the public domain proceedings on
the last piece of property blocking the construction of the roundabout at White Oaks Crossing.
City Clerk Timmons announced that her assistant was leaving.
January 3, 2023 Update
I thought tonight’s City Council finally would have full attendance for the first time in two years,
but I was wrong. We were once again one member short, so all unanimous votes counted as 7 to 1.
All four recently elected council persons, including newly elected Christine Gronwald and
re-elected members of Jess Holt, Chad Gardner and myself were in attendance,
along with re-elected Mayor Caleb Norris, new City Attorney Andrew Thornton, and re-elected City Clerk Tina Timmons.
We were all sworn into office by Judge Bailey.
Council member Mazzoni reported that last month’s Public Service Commission was cancelled due to bad weather.
Once again another vote was held to decide between Kelly Hughes and Sam Williams for the Public Service Commission.
Council member Holt objected to holding a vote since Ms. Hughes was not present and new Council person Gronwald
had not yet had a chance to interview her.
Mayor Norris said that neither person has been asked to speak at the last two meetings and had been told it was not
necessary for them to attend. He felt everyone had “heard their stories.”
Council member Holt made a motion to table the vote until the next meeting. There was no second, so the motion failed.
Two votes were held, both with the same 4 to 2 results.
Council member Williams abstained because of her conflict of interest.
Council member Holt motioned to move into an Executive Session to discuss the matter, and was seconded by member Mazzoni.
A session was held, but nothing significant was decided. I commented about how excellent a choice each candidate was.
A third vote was four for Sam Williams and two for Ms. Hughes, so the Mayor elected to cast the deciding vote and
former police chief Williams is now officially our new representative.
The Mayor then entertained suggestions for any proposed changes in the City’s protocols. There were none.
Since Mayor Norris will not be in attendance for the next meeting, a new Pro Tem candidate is needed for this meeting.
Council member Mosley, who had done it last time, asked not to be considered. A motion was made for member Chad Gardner,
who was the lone vote against his appointment.
The Mayor then welcomed everyone new and old to their new offices and/or terms of office.
Council member Holt shared advice from a penguin, a polar bear, a glacier, and a sea turtle about appreciating life.
Council member Williams addressed an unsigned letter and email sent to all members of the council about an event that happened 26 years past,
it was sent by a former inmate of hers who was disgruntled. There were no revelations, and this was something discussed on the radio by Paul Harvey.
City Clerk Timmons asked for everyone to turn in their Statement of Financial Interest and offered other information for holding office.
January 1, 2023 Update
Here is a graphic showing the new All Inclusive Playground expansion next to the new Splash Pad,for which the City of Maumelle was recently given a $240,000 grant to complete.
Maumelle City Council 2022 notes.
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2022.
Maumelle City Council 2021 Notes.
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2021.
Maumelle City Council 2020 Notes
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2020.
2019 City Council Notes:
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2019.
Here is a link to my 2018 Campaign page.
photo by Shannon Odom
MAUMELLE Zoning MAP
Click on the map below to find your Zoning:
MAUMELLE WARD MAP
Click on the map below to find your voting ward:
The State of Arkansas has it's own long-range planning, called Long Range Intermodal Transportation Plan (LRITP), with a vision that reaches to 2040. You can access the public record of this plan on the following link:
http://www.arkansashighways.com/Trans_Plan_PolicyARDOT_LRITP_ExecSummary_Final.pdf
Here is Maumelle's current long-range plan.
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