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May 19, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council was three members short, so all unanimous votes will be recorded as 5 to 3 since all
absentees count as No votes. Clerk Timmons was out of state at an out-of-state forum, with Deputy Clerk Christina Russel sitting in for her.
Mister Jim Rule addressed the Council about his concerns over how some crepe myrtles had been trimmed back to give better access to the
garbage truck. He would have preferred to do it himself. When he called he was told the City had right of way. He was also concerned
about “the ugly green boxes” that he feels devalues his house. He was not happy when told that this was in the right of way. He felt the City
was slack in dealing with Comcast. His third issue was with the landscaping of his neighbor. They have had workmen working until 8 at night.
When he called the police, they told him it was still daylight. He wanted to invoke an ordinance about making to loud of noise.
As a side note: In previous City Council meeting I had advocated make the noise curfew 8PM, but the rest of the Council made that time 9PM.
Finance Director Beatriz Sousa gave the April Financial Report. Property taxes are down, but planning permits are up.
An operational transfer for $1.1M was made from the General Fund to the Capital Improvement Fund to the Fire Engine 2 replacement.
Other capital expenditures was the purchase of two vehicles and associated equipment by the Police Department and the Senior Center
purchased a Ford Escape in April.
As far as all other expenses and fund balances “We are on line.”
The auditors working on 2024 are almost finished with fieldwork and are now working in the the ACFR report.
This should be done in the next month.
Resolution 2025-17 authorizing the City Attorney to seek condemnation of 116 Delaware Lane, which is owned by Start Constructions.
This is a home where the construction permit was granted 3 years ago.
Andrew Hunt spoke to the Council about the building which is two homes down the street from him. Within the first year the house under
construction had a wall fall over because of shoddy work. He considers it a nuisance and a hazard to neighborhood kids. The grass is overgrown
and rebar is lying near the sidewalk and a snake jumped at him once because of the tall grass. The unattended property has become a dumping
ground. He is glad that the City is stepping in.
Neal Scoggins also spoke about the same building which is next door to home. He spoke about how he had needed to repeated call Planning and
Permits to deal with issues. He cut the grass for the lot a couple of times, but when it rains the yard trash flows into his yard.
One time the contractor set the grass on fire and it swept into his yard. He was thankful for the City’s assistance on this matter.
Trent Thomas represented the landowner Mister Curtis. He said the owner still intends to finish the job and asked to be granted four months to
do an initial inspection and four months to do a final inspections. He said there had been some issues with the plans that had caused delays.
Mayor Norris questioned the previous delays. Mister Thomas said that the owner now has the financing to finish the project. Mayor Norris suggested
tabling this Resolution for four months. He would prefer it be built, and was concerned that condemning it might actually slow down the project
to get the property restored. The Mayor said they are already considering a new ordinance to deal with this matter in the future.
Council Member Holt suggested that with the Council being so short in attendance tonight, he suggested tabling might be a good idea.
Mayor Norris expressed concern about the reliability of the builder. Right now his building permit has been revoked.
The City Attorney said he had been concerned about the builder’s financial viability, but they have gotten a letter of finance from the Bank.
Given this I made a motion to table this vote for four months. But affirmed that this was a last lifeline for the builder.
Member Gronwald said that she was not inclined to give an extension after three years of delays.
Director of Planning and Permits Scott Grummer discussed the matter and how neighbors had been complaining. He then gave more details on
the de-evolution of this construction project and the many, many delays. They have done no work since September 2024, so they pulled the
building permit. There have been liens by the workmen and bank on the property. He finally felt forced to proceed to the Condemnation phase.
This will also include a $50K bond being given to the City in the eventually that the City has to pay to clear the lot.
I asked about the $50K bond, but that would only be collected if the City condemned the property and the builder wanted to continue.
Member Booker asked the bank was also putting pressure. If condemned, Mister Grummer said that the builder could appeal and the property sit like
it is for a year before anything else happens.
Mayor Norris said the the City will be writing a new ordinance to give the City more teeth in matters like this.
Member Gronwald asked if we tabled the matter for a shorter time than four months. The Mayor and Mister Grummer said that would not give us enough
time to write and pass a new Ordinance. They City needs time to work through it. She was concerned that we could be back where we started in four months.
My motion to table until the first week in October failed.
Member Holt spoke of his compassion for the neighbors who are impacted by the building and feels we have an obligation to protect them. He felt
sufficient time had already been allowed on this matter. He made a motion to pass the Resolution as written.
Member Booker asked about the cost to the City to condemn. Mayor Norris said the City has not figured that yet.
Right now the City is focused on getting the project completed. There would be litigation costs in addition to the site cleanup.
The Resolution passed 4 to 1, with the Mayor decided to vote Yes to give it a quorum majority. He voted Yes since he did not want to do nothing.
Upcoming dates of interest:
Memorial Day Ceremony May 26th at 10am Veterans Memorial, Lake Willastein
City Offices Closed May 26th in observance of Memorial Day
The Civil Service Commission Opening is still open and the deadline for Application Submission has been Extended.
May 5, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council was one member short, so all unanimous votes will be recorded as 7 to 1,
since all absentees count as a No vote.
Chief Buford of the Fire Department addressed the council, and brought a lego diorama to illustrate his department report.
His topic was a police and fire department training facility. Being a smaller crew, it is considered a danger to have trucks
and personel train outside the city. He said it was the same situation for the Police Department. Plus, moving a 35 ton truck
onto other streets has the potential for damage. Even when people donate their house of training, it can cause a panic with the neighbors.
While researching this issue, Chief Burford had visited other cities to establish a cost effective plan. Local businesses donated their
time to help draft this plan. The final plan includes a shooting range, a three story burn tower, and a drive path for vehicular training.
The goal was to create something that would fit into Maumelle, but was different for other Cities, so they used forests as natural boundaries,
which could be used later for expansions. Areas for future explansions and additions are already planned.
The estimated cost is $3.43M. Soil samples and a site survey have already been conducted. There is also a proposal for a classroom and gym and
truck storage should a grant be approved. The site plan was made by WDD architects. The location selected is off Carnahan Drive,
southwest of the schools. The money for this has already been moved into the Capital Improvement Fund.
Council Member Gardner asked Chief Picard about the firing range being outdoor. Chief Pickard explained that an indoor range would cost millions.
Mayor Norris added that they would coordinate shooting times so as not to interfere with the schools. This location is right next to the bayou,
but close enough to the different stations for crews to be able to drop everything and respond instantly to any emergency.
I asked Chief Pickard about any wild shots going over the backstop, and possibly striking a biker on a trail that passes behind it.
The Chief explained that for any stray bullet to get past that barrier, it would be at an angle that it would end up in the bayou.
Extra precautions would be taken to close the paths during periods of fire.
Member Williams expressed how much she would like to see an on site training facility and asked the cost. Chief Buford said this would increase
the cost around another half-million. Ground work would be done for such a facility should it be budgeted in the future. There are other things
they took out of the plan that might be added back in should a new Bond issue be voted for. This would service both departments, and allow for
trainers to come to Maumelle to do the training. Right now they have no way to do that. The City's Personel department would also like to use such
a facility for training.
Member Gardner asked about off site training, and the fees we pay. Chief Buford said, other than North Little Rock, most cities do not charge a fee.
But they limit access. Oak Grove has a strong interest in using this. The ability to practice helps avoid injuries and damages.
Council Member Gardner gave the Planning Commission report. The planning commission only had two items to act on last month, approving a preliminary
plat and passing the Stoney Mountain development on to the Council.
The third Reading Ordinance 1143 amends the zoning map at ZaJack Road to be developed as Devoe Bend Lake Estates. The Ordinance pass unanimously.
Mayor Norris discussed some extra expenses have been encountered with the ground of the Gateway park. Shoring up the foundation has burned through our
emergency contingency funds.
Member Williams asked questions about the bike/walk lane on Arnold Palmer and the slippery green boxes in the road.
Mayor Norris said this is a step in the process of connecting them to the green walking paths that will be added later.
Other things added later will include bike and pedestrian decals. He agreed that the green boxes “look weird right now” since this is a multi-step project.
He tried pouring fluids on one of the green squares, but did not have any footing problems. He said he would repeat this test during an
actual rain, and asked the construction engineer to explain.
Shane with Arkansas Sign and Barricade said they do city striping across four different state. The purpose for the greeen is that color is used universally,
especially in big cities. The green is called Bike Green. It will look better when the crosswalks are installed. It should not be slick.
Preformed thermo sheeting is supposed to be less slippery than paint would be. It is then burned into the road, with a sealer beneath.
I asked about how light reflects off crystals in the green. Shane explained that glass crystals are incorporated in the surface, which is supposed
to make it less slippery.
Member Williams said she googled Green colored bike spaces online. The green color used is the universal color for bike lanes.
Mayor Norris added that it would have been too expensive to turn the whole lane green, which is why it was only used at intersections.
I questioned how CAW is estimated billing, causing an avalanche of complaints about overcharges and residents being panicked into called out a plumber
when none was needed. Mayor Norris said he would inform the water company that this is happening.
May 4 through 10 is City Clerk’s Week in Maumelle.
And don't forget, there is still time to apply for the open seat on the Planning Commission.
April 21, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council was one member short, so all unanimous votes will show on the record as 7 to 1,
since absentees count as a No vote.
Director of Finance Beatriz Sousa gave the March Financial Report. There is a timing issue with the collection of property taxes, so right now they are $75K below expected. There was also a $73K settlement
paid to Moffit & Phillips, and operational transfer of $1.1M from the General Fund to the Capital Project Fund for the Fire Engine #2 replacement.
The City also paid $284K to North Little Rock for the first quarter of 2025 911 dispatch calls in the first quarter, split between the police
and fire departments. The Police Department purchased two vehicles and associated equipment. Despite the shortfall and the increased expenses,
current unassigned funds still exceed the minimum balance of $21.1M with a balance of $4.2M.
The Street, Polic, and Fire Department are also all operating within budget.
Auditor anticipate that 2024 audit will be complete by July.
Council member Gardner asked about a January cash balance and how it has grown since then and where monies were moved to. The answer was the
Fire Department, and another $2.4M for the Gateway Park. There were also several other big projects started by the City this year and
completed in 2024. He also asked when the loan to the sanitation fund will be paid back.
Mayor Norris said it depends on when the new sanitation trucks arrive. Operating transfers can be considered as savings funds earmarked for
future purchases. If needed they could be pulled out and applied to other needs should they arise.
I confirmed that the $73K paid to Moffit & Phillips was for the imminent domain lawsuit dealing with the White Oaks roundabout right-of-way.
Ms. Souza then announced that she plans to retire. She expressed her grateful appreciation of everyone she has worked with.
She looks forward to her next chapter of life and spending time with family. Her last day will be August 1st.
The second reading of Ordinance 1143 amends the zoning map at ZaJack Road to be developed as Devoe Bend Lake Estates. There was no discussion.
Resolution 2025-15 expresses the willingness of the City to utilize Federal-Aid Transportation alternatives program or Recreational
Trails (Woodland Trails) program funds. This will revolve around expanding and creating new trails around Woodland.
This is a grant that is applied directly through ARDOT, the Arkansas Department of Transportation. They require a Council Resolution be attached
to any applications. Federal-aid Transportation Alternatives Program or Recreational Trails Program Funds are available at 80% federal
participation and 20% local match to develop or improve the Woodland Drive Intersection Improvements and Trail Improvements.
This information applies to Resolution 2025-15 and the following Resolution 2015-16.
Resolution 2025-15 passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-16 expresses the willingness of the City to utilize Federal-Aid Transportation alternatives program or Recreational Trails
(Lake Willastein Trail Improvements) program funds. This Resolution deals with enhancements around Lake Willastein trails.
This is for upgrading existing recreational trails.
Mayor Norris then commented about how Maumelle’s 40 anniversary is approaching on June 20.
There is also a vacancy on the Public Facilties board. This is for a five year term through April 2030. Applications can be submitted through the
City Clerk’s office no later than May 14.
May 26 there will be a 10AM Memorial Day celebration at Lake Willastein.
May 30 is the Maumelle Summer Kickoff at Lake Willastein from 5:30 to 8PM. There will be free kid's activities, food trucks, and more.
April 7, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council was one member short, so all unanimous votes will be recorded as 7 to 1,
since absentees count as No votes.
Council Member Christine Gronwald gave the planning commission report. There was a discussion about how the State has voted
to severely limit the ability of local authorities to control local development. Other items approved are on the agenda for the Council tonight.
Mayor Norris spoke about how Maumelle also no long has extra-jurisdictional zoning control on the areas immediately surrounding Maumelle,
which was another control stripped away from the City by State legislators.
Resolution 2025-12 approves a conditional use permit for an ambulance sub-station 500 Millwood Circle. MEMS has been looking for
a new centrally located spot. The resolution was passed unanimously.
First Reading Ordinance 1143 to amend zoning map at ZaJack Road to be developed as Devoe Bend Lake Estates.
This is approximately 48 acres to be developed inside the city near White Oaks.
Eric Holloway is the developer, and he spoke to the council. These are one acre lots and larger. As a developer he had a lot of people
asking for large lots. He is asking to change the zoning to the most restrictive zoning that Maumelle has in R1 zoning to protect
buyers from other developments going in around them. Based on their current zoning they could construct apartment complexes,
but have closen to build single family luxury homes.
Member Gardner discussed about how this is the most restrictive zoning that is being requested. City attorney Thornton confirmed this
is the most restrictive zoning. Mayor Norris noted that normally developers ask to rezone to more friendly zoning. R1 is the least
dense housing code in the City.
John Jones with the planning commission also confirmed that R1 is more restrictive and less dense. The previous zoning would have allowed
up to 35 residences per acre.
I mentioned how former councilman Steve Mosley would have loved this proposal.
Aquatic Study Presentation by Nicole Vogler Director, Center on the Lake. Mayor Norris explained the process of how Nicole searched for
professional consultants and went with Hunsaker. Focus groups were formed and discussed the matter. I attended some of these.
Director Vogler discussed how it would be attached to the existing business so as to share the costs with the existing center. Six local
therapy clinics were also interested in this. One of the things she explored was “No Taj Mahal” and prioritized functionality.
Many amenities were discussed, but decided that a walk in entrance was most important. Option One came in at 9.4 million. Option two was 9.6 million,
and option Three was over 10 million. Working with the mayor, the city engineering firm came up with an alternate proposal for a three lane pool
that could handle water aroubics with a walk in area for $3.5 million.
How to afford it was the next question. Membership was discussed, as were the operational expenses. With insurance benefits she said over $100K
could be collected to cover those costs. Another avenue for payment would be to create a new membership level that included the pool and
instructor classes for $42 per month. Looking at other facilities, that would be in line with other local fitness pools. To date they have
1520 memberships, and 70 percent of those on on insurance benefits, and the staff bills for each visit. Her recommendation to the council
would be the $42 month fee for membership if the pool were added.
Mayor Norris said other avenues of revenue could be added with special classes and other members would be added. The subject of lifeguards
will be discussed later. Right now the operational costs based on these figures would run around $30K deficit a year for the city to absorb.
He also added that additional parking should be included in any expansion of the facilities. He felt the city either needed to save up money
or consider a bond issue.
Member Booker asked how the facility would be run without lifeguards. Nicole said a coordinator was included in her budget, whom would absorb that duty.
She would also like to add one more person, but a lifeguard is not a legal requirement. But she would like one as a safeguard. One other point we
discussed after the meeting was how Fire Department emergency services would only be 100 feet away.
This would be an 58000 gallon pool, four foot deep, designed for aerobics and swimming laps.
I discussed the need for this, and how my website gets 30,000 hits every time I mention this.
Mayor Norris said this might satisfy some of the people wanting the pool, but has concerns about those who might be too young to qualify for the Senior Center.
Member Shinn discussed the potential of finding federal grant money to differ the costs.
Member Gardner asked if it was the focus groups that targeted the Center of the Lake for the location. Mayor Norris said off site locations
were discussed, but ultimately the scope of the study targeted the Center of the Lake as the best option because of shared costs and other factors.
He said he was “flabbergasted” by the original quotes from Hunsaker, but pleasantly surprised that the net operating costs were very manageable
when the revenues would factored in.
Member Gardener asked when a proposal package would be prepared. Mayor Norris referred him to Hunsaker’s presentation,
but said the city could throw something together.
I asked about the bond issue route. Mayor Norris felt it might be too small an amount to do as a bond, but that there were other projects like
Firestation 3 on the horizon and to include it with a project of that nature. Spring of next year would be the earliest something like this
could happen with a Bond issue. After the meeting I also discussed pursuing Grant monies with Director Vogler.
Resolution 2025-13 Amending the 2025 General Fund Budget to appropriate funds for a runoff election. Passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-14 Amending the 2025 Street Fund Budget to add funds to allow completion of street overlays for Carnahan Drive. Options are to scale
this down and do it over two years, but there are savings if done all at once. This would be all four lanes of the road.
Member Gardner discussed previous budgets made for this road. Mayor Norris discussed how we still needed another $200K to finish the project.
While this would empty the street fund for the year, the City typically only does one project a year like this.
Member Shinn discussed how this goes to two schools and has a lot of traffic.
Member Booker asked what happens when the money is used up. Mayor Norris said the city keeps a reserve over anticipated expenses.
The Resolution passed unanimously.
Member Gardner discussed the previous resolution to fund the playground by the new Splash Pad. He passed around a flier showing how
$69K in donations had been budgeted as extra funds that were not used. This money is still sitting in an account, but should have already been used.
The committee has asked the Timmons Foundation to transfer the remaining amount in the account over to the City.
A letter has already been sent to the Timmons Foundation.
I thanked the City’s First responders for their hard work during a stormy last weekend.
Member Gronwald added that the remaining outstanding playground balance due from Timmons was actually around $43K.
March 18, 2025 Update
The Winter 2025 issue of City & Town: The Official Publication of the Arkansas Municipal League features the 2024 Volunteer Community winners of their annual Engage Arkansas awards. You'll see Mayor Norris accepting the award on behalf of Maumelle in the center, second row picture.
March 17, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting once again had a full quorum. That’s two in a row!
Mayor Norris gave the State of the City address, which is due by State Law to be given within 90 days of the start of the calendar year.
He highlighted that Maumelle won an award as the Best City in the State.
The Blackout on the Boulevard was discussed,
joking that it only took him five years to bring a solar eclipse to the city, where the previous mayor never did in 12.
The first annual food truck festival at Lake Willastein, the opening of the new pickleball courts, the holiday sculpture lights on the trails during
Christmas festivities, the groundbreaking of the new Gateway Park at Maumelle Boulevard and Millwood, along with other trail upgrades were discussed.
The work done by the City Attorney Andrew Thornton, City Clerk Tina Timmons, the District court and Judge Bailey, the Finance Department under Beatrice
Souza, the Fire Department under Chief Buford responded to the second largest number of calls in the City’s history, while the Police Department
under Chief Cory Pickard saw overall cases of crimes and accidents reduced against last year's levels and far below the State’s average, Human
Resources under Doreen Mathis dealt with a 24% turnover rate as opposed to the standard 8% average, Planning and Permits under Director Scott Grummer
continue to streamline their services while also dealing with code violations, Senior Services under Christine Vogler had an record year last year
with increased visitors to the Senior Center and use of their transportation program, Parks and Recreation under Director Phillip Raborn also saw
an increased use of their services, were just some of the City services he discussed.
I developed a hamstring cramp right in the middle of his speech and had to walk it off, so I missed recording some details.
Director of Finance Sousa gave the Finance report for January.
Right now finances are aligning with budget expectations,
and the general fund net balance still has a surplus, but she advised that we stay on budget during the 90 day federal fund freeze.
The 2024 audit has begun and should be concluded by July 2025.
Resolution 2025-10 Approves a Conditional Use Permit for the Stony Mountain Subdivision. This involves changes to a conditional use permit previously
approved, but for which delays in the annexation process require it to be approved again. The resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-11 Approves a conditional use permit for U-STORIT. This is a procedural measure due to recent rezoning to a neighboring property.
It was approved by the Planning Commission. The resolution passed unanimously.
Mayor Norris then spoke about the trip made to Washington by himself and some members of the Council.
Member Chad Gardner discussed the major sanitation fee increases being done by other cities across the state that are far in excess of
what Maumelle has done.
Member Doug Shinn discussed a meeting about the ARDOT changes on Highway 365, and how many residents requested that Maumelle annex Short Marche so
that they could remove the gate placed there by County Judge Barry Hyde, before ARDOT starts their new construction in two years.
Mayor Norris said that if 100% of residents requested it, then it could go before the City Council for a vote.
If only a majority of residents wanted it, then the Country Judge's approval and public elections would have to happen in order to do an annexation.
Extra-territorial jurisdiction around the city limits by one mile giving the City a say in what is built is a law that is going away.
Soon we will have no control beyond the City limits.
He said one legislator described the bill doing this as “one of the worst bills ever seen” as the State legislature continues to do
a power grab to wrest local control away for themselves.
Member Wes Booker discussed the second visit to Maumelle by the Mobile Health clinic.
I had several things I’d intended to discuss, but got caught typing when the Mayor asked for other comments, and didn't speak up fast enough.
March 6, 2025 Update
Click the image below to download the PDF for the proposed redesign of the Club Manor corridor.
March 3, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council had a full quorum in attendance.
Public Works Director addressed the Council. He discussed the snow event that he felt went “very well,” but hopes was the last of this year.
Around 3000 feet of walk paths were redone around Lake Willastein. Upcoming projects include street striping, which include Arnold Palmer.
The Shanna Lane drainage issue will hopefully start work in the next couple of months. There are street lights that they have been able to
repair, needing heads changed out, so another firm will soon be contracted. That firm has been unable to pinpoint the problem on South Odom,
so a new line will need to be run to replace the very old one. A streetlight at Millwood was just repaired today. His department is still
short staffed and hoping to hire some new people.
Council Member Shinn asked about the work do be done on Carnahan. It is in the planning stages. Champs Boulevard is also being looked at for future
repairs. The last snow event “chopped (the asphault) up pretty good.”
Mayor Norris added that Carnahan is the City’s top project. One problem is that the budget for overlays is half of what it was the previous year,
last year was unique in that one time budget, but Carnahan would cost $200K more than the reduced budget, so a resolution will need to be
made to cover the shortfall.
Member Gardner commented about the road being “wafflely” and asked if it had a deeper foundation problem. Director Hogan said some areas would need
to be reworked before an overlay was done. Champs has held up better than Carnahan, but there are a lot of trucks using those roads.
Member Shinn gave the planning commission report, and several items will soon be headed to the Council. There will be a conditional use variance for
the area surrounding the old Krogers, another around Stoney Mountain, and Entergy is asking for a variance to allow overhead power lines in one location.
The first reading of Resolution 2025-06 approves an Economic Development Service Contract between the City of Maumelle and Metro Little Rock
Alliance (MLRA). A representative named Jack spoke to the Council about the activities that MLRA does, and how the metro Little Rock
region has a lot more to offer than other areas of the state. This focus is on bringing in new jobs and capital investment in the region,
which includes promoting Maumelle in Trade Shows. He complimented the job Diredtor of Economic Development Courtney Dunn has done working
the booth in such endeavors.
Communications Coordinator Cydney Thompson then presented a video that showed the work of the MLRA.
The annual cost of the contract is $5,128. The resolution passed unanimously.
The previously tabled Planning Commission interviewed an excellent selection of talented Appointment candidates for the opening on the Planning Commission:
1. David Finnie 2. Greg Biggs 3. Mary Wnek 4. Hannah Allen 5. Desi Hunter
David Finnie has an extensive construction background that includes the airport.
After Mister Biggs was interviewed, the YouTube livestream failed, and had to be restarted.
Member Williams asked Mister Biggs about his community service to helping provide shelter and meals to out-of-work individuals.
He typically hires people after they are released from the Pulaski County jail, and helps them reestablish themselves in the workforce.
An admirable service.
Mary Wnek had been the only person in attendance at the previous meeting, and it was her seat that had expired, so she has reapplied.
She discussed her work with the Commission.
Hannah Allen was unable to attend.
Desi Hunter has worked for Entergy for 25 years, with duties that include project manager.
All five had excellent resumes and were great candidates. We thank them for their interest in serving the community.
Mary Wnek was re-elected on the second, runoff ballot.
The Council then converted to the Board of Sign Appeals, and considered Pinnacle Signs Variance Request
Director of Planning and Permits Scott Grummer explained the denial on allowing a second pedestal sign. City Ordinance only allows for one per lot,
but this is a unique situation since the lot straddles between two roads. While the ordinance required the rejections, but the unique situation
compelled the Staff to recommend that the Council approve the variance. It was approved unanimously.
Resolution 2025-07 approved the sale of a 2018 Dodge Durango for the Police Department.
Council Member Booker asked about where the estimated value came from. The police made their best estimate. The resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-08 approved the sale of a 2000 Tractor and a 2011 Front Loader for Parks & Recreation. The resolution passed unimously.
Resolution 2025—09 amends the 2025 Street Fund Budget For Vehicle Accident For Maumelle Center On the Lake. A vehicle servicing the Senior Center
was totaled and needs to be changed. The cost will be split between Capital Donations, Miscellaneous Income, and Vehicles Capital.
Director Nicole discussed how the incident was a no fault accident, but insurance was not covering the full cost of the replacement.
Currently they are unable to provide rides.
This will cost the City 0 dollars outside of the insurance money, thanks to generous donations by the Counting On Each Other organization.
Member Williams asked if they have a car already picked out. It’s a Ford White Escape SUV, that they managed to secure extra coverage for.
Mayor Norris spoke about the Gateway Park groundbreaking. The old building is now demolished.
I asked Mayor Norris about providing better images for the proposed Club Manor remodel.
He said they had already responded to the person who had asked for this and would be providing better images.
Council Member Williams asked everyone to tune in on Sunday to watch her niece Clara compete in the 2025 season of American Idol.
Member Gronwald talked about a corridor study that preceded the City’s formation that ARDOT reference in a recent refusal to permit an intersection
traffic signal to be installed. Mayor Norris and Mayor Hartwick of NLR have asked the Municipal League to approve another corridor study including
the Mount Pellier intersection. This was approved, now we are waiting on approval from ARDOT.
Member Booker discussed South Odom traffic backing up on Maumelle Bouldvard. Mayor Norris said that this would also be addressed in the corridor study.
Flashing yellow lights that do not require ARDOT approval are in the process to be installed by Inline, along with other repairs that include the
string of South Odom problem lights discussed earlier by Director Hogan. Other areas are to be assessed for repairs.
I discussed improving the visibility of street signs along the boulevard. Director Hogan said that ARDOT had put up the previous signs, which the City
does not control, A request will be passed on to them, while Director Hogan said they could spruce up some of the faded signs.
Member Booker asked about a pair of traffic lights that required an outside firm, In-line, to fix when they both turned steady red. It is fixed now.
City Attorney Thornton said that land on the White Oaks Crossing that had been taken in an eminent domain action many years ago has had a legal
action called Quiet Title on a property stradling Maumelle, NLR, and the County. This may not be a concern for Maumelle--but more information
will be forthcoming.
February 28, 2025 Update
Today we did the groundbreaking at the new Gateway Park, which will be located on the site of the old Police Station and Fire Department,
at the corner of Maumelle Boulevard and Millwood Circle. (first picture shown by Communications Coordinator Cydney Thompson)
Former Police Chief Sam Williams opened the ceremony with a historical perspective, Parks and Recreation Director Phillip Rayborn gave
the current prespective of constantly improving the amenities available to Maumelleans, and Mayor Norris concluded with hisotrical
recollections about how this project came to be and what the future holds.
February 24, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council had a full quorum in attendance.
It had been delayed until this week by the ice storm last week.
The start time was delayed due to technical difficulties with YouTube.
The Mayor said it appeared to be recording but would not show on the monitors.
Director of Finance Ms. Sousa gave the January financial review.
January was a month were a lot of income and expenditures are mixed with the last month of last year.
The City still has unassigned funds of $6.7M in the General budget, well above the minimum net balance of $5.9M.
The need for the recently enacted sanitation fund increase was expressed to cover shortfalls in that department.
The process of the 2024 audit starts next week.
Resolution 2025-06 approves an Economic Development Service Contract between the City of Maumelle and the Metro Little Rock Alliance (MLRA).
Representatives who were scheduled to discuss this were not in attendance, so the Resolution was tabled until the next meeting.
The planning commission had four applicants for Mary Wnek’s expired Term. Candidates included David Fannie, Greg Biggs, Mary Wnek reapplied,
Hannah Allen, and Desi Hunter. Brent Ashcroft withdrew his application. No applicants were in attendance, and the concern was expressed
that not all of them replied to emails notifying them of the change.
I made a motion to table this matter until the next meeting.
Council member Williams agreed.
Member Shinn confirmed that there is a single opening with five applicants.
Member Booker also agreed with tabling the matter.
Member Holt said he had heard from one candidate who was very sincere and showed “major interest” in the opening, but was not in attendance.
Member Gardner confirmed that this would apply only to applicants who have already applied.
The motion to table passed unanimously.
The Board of Signs Appeals was convened to hear the Pinnacle Signs Variance Request. They were appealing a rejection of a sign.
The first step for us as a board is to set the date for the next meeting. This measure passed unanimously.
Mayor Norris announced the groundbreaking ofthe Gateway Park this Friday morning at 10AM.
I asked Mayor Norris about trash pickup after the ice storm threw last week into chaos.
I was told that they will be back on a normal schedule this week.
The mayor was unaware that many neighborhoods had still not been picked up.
Member Shinn asked about street repair at Carnahan and Champs.
Mayor Norris said he would get him the plans for repairs.
Member Shinn said the recent overlay was already deteriorating.
Mayor Norris said he would take a closer look at that area.
City Attorney Thornton said the public domain lawsuits settlement has been accepted on what had been a roadblock to the construction of
the White Oaks/Club Manor intersection roundabout.
February 13, 2025 Update
Today was the first visit to Maumelle by the Arkansas Mobile Health Unit.
This was the first of what will be monthly visits to probide free health screening services to residents.
You can get your blood tested, have an EKG done on your heart, and other heath screenings at no cost.
This service was provided to Maumelle thanks to the efforts of new City Councilman, Wes Booker (seen to the right in the photo above).
Councilman Booker was able to bring this service to Maumelle thanks to his also serving on the Arkansas Minority Health Commission.
His other activities include being an SEC football referee. He even brought a penalty flag to his first Council meeting!
All of Maumelle welcomes his contributions in his many different capacities, and thank him for his efforts to add services to our citizens!
The first visit was held ont he shared parking long between the Maumelle Police Station and Fire Station One.
So I took todays visit as an opportunity to tour Maumelle's Fire Station One.
A kitchen remodel had been approved by the Council, and the Station reduced about 60% of the cost by doing much of the work themselves.
Chief Beau Buford discussed how Maumelle has plans already in place should Mumelle ever be exposed to a hazardous train accident.
A potential trouble spot location has already been identified where rail crosses with gas lines.
We also discussed the water availability in the case of emergency demand.
The wild fires that scorched Los Angeles should never happen here.
Maumelle's water supply tested as the strongest in the metro area.
February 3, 2025 Update
Tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council was one member short, so all unanimous votes will be recorded as 7 to 1, since absentees count as a No vote.
Director Chris Davis of Animal Control addressed the Council to recap 2024 and lay out his plans for 2025. Last year they took in 900 animals
and had a 96% safe rate of homing animals and returning strays to their owners. The were very active in operating outreach programs, from
seniors to children’s playgrounds, as well as other adoption focused activities. They are also busy generating new registration tags and violators.
They have hired another officer who starts in February. This year starting in may they well be taking animals to the parks and Splash Pad on Saturdays.
They will also be visiting the Senior Center by the Lake. They are stepping up activities to curtail strays. One recent adoption event saw every
cat they had adopted. He thanked the Council for their continue support.
Council Member Gardner gave the planning commission report. There were only two items with activity. The You Storit on the corner of Millwood and the
Blvd is looking to expand. Since the neighboring property is zoned residential, there will need to be public notices sent out. Stoney Mountain
sub-division was approved to be extended.
The third reading of Ordinance 1141 amends the Maumelle City Code Concerning Storm Drainage. This requires future drainage to be built to handle
flooding up to 100 year events, as opposed to the previous 20 year event requirement. The Ordinance passed unanimously.
The third reading of Ordinance 1142 To Amend City Code to reassign the duties of the Tree Board to the Department of Parks and Recreation. The board was
previously having trouble finding volunteers, so this moves the duties to the Parks and Rec department. The Ordinance passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-03 requires an annual audit to be performed in accordance with the guidelines and format prescribed by the Governmental Accounting
Standards Board. This is a standard resolution that is normally done very year. The Resolution passed unanimously
Resolution 2025-04 amends the 2025 General Fund Budget to allow for litigation expenses related to the City of Maumelle v. Scott Hall lawsuite.
This is the funding needed to pay for closing the legal services on the recent Eminent Domain offer that was accepted. This dealt with the White
Oaks Crossing roundabout. The Resolution was passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-05 amends the 2025 General Fund to cover cost for increased cost in insurance premium.
This adjusts for invoices that came in higher than anticipated.
Member Gardner asked when the policies will renew. His concern was future increases.
City Clerk Timmons said we did not budget for liability insurance when the annual bills came in. This also covers unexpected liabilities, since we
have a $10,000 deductible should a snow truck hit a car or some such. She also pointed out that paying a resident without a claim because it is
below the deductible would count as a welfare check.
She also pointed out that February 13 is the deadline for applications for the opening on the Planning Commission.
Mayor Norris discussed meeting with contractors for the Gateway Park. There will be a groundbreaking ceremony at the end of the month—the date has
not yet been determined.
The Mayor then suggested a naming contest for an official name for the park to replace the working name of Gateway Park.
I mentioned we need to discuss the final choice. We don’t want to end up like when the UK named a boat Boaty Mcboatface.
We don’t want to end up with a park named Parky Mcparkface. A discussion the Mayor and I had after the meeting considered the possiblity of
someone paying for the naming of the park. All they have to do is pay for all the construction expenses.
Got $1.5M to put your name on a park?
We agreed to use the public to do suggestions, but the final decision will probably be made by the Council.
At the next meeting we will determine the process for name submissions.
Kellie Walls of the Maumelle Chamber had member Gardner announce that the latest issue of their magazine features the new Chamber membership.
City offices will be Closed Monday, February 17, in observance of Presidents Day.
The next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 18.
January 21, 2025 Update
For anyone watching tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council on YouTube, we on the Council were all dressed more formal than normal
because tonight was picture night. Before the meeting began, a photographer took the elected officials photos that will hang on the walls of City Hall.
John Knight made a public comment to the Council about residential road clearance. His concerns were sand and salt clearance.
He proposed establishing a working group to establish a mission plan.
Miss Souza gave the preliminary end of year financial report for 2024.
Total fund balance is $7.3Mil, which is $5.2M above the required minimum.
We were aligned with the 2024 budget. The Street Fund had a shortfall as street repairs and street equipment were nearly $1M over budget,
but this was balanced out by City Street Aid Program which compensated the difference with State turn back. Sanitation Fund expenses
were also in excess of the budget, but this should be compensated in 2025 by a scheduled rate increase. The 2024 audit will being in March 2025.
The budget and auditors are already in place.
Council Member Gardner asked when the sanitation fee increase will take place.
Mayor Norris was told that when the January usage is billed in February, the rate increase will take effect then.
The Second Reading of Ordinance 1141 amends the Maumelle City Code Concerning Storm Drainage.
This will require developers to provide drainage based on 100 year events, as opposed to the previous 20 year requirement.
The Second Reading of Ordinance 1142 to reassign the duties of the Tree Board to the Department of Parks and Recreation.
There will still be opportunities for residents to join and participate in events like the Arbor Day celebration.
There was a discussion about a new counter-offer received from landowners’ attorney re: City of Maumelle v. Scott Hall et al., 60CV-23-365.
This deals with the imminent domain holdout that has delayed the building of the White Oaks roundabout. Our appraiser valued the
property value at $40K. The owner is asking $140K.
City Attorney Thornton said expenses for going to trail would be around $40K.
The last offer made by the City was $100K. The owner counter offered $125K.
If the jury were to split the value between the two appraisals, that would put the expense above the newest offer.
He suggested upping the final counter offer to $112.5K.
Mayor Norris said some of the funds might be regained by grant monies, but we won’t know until later what percentage that recovery might be.
The split between Maumelle and North Little Rock is 75/25. If the City did accept, then it would require a budget resolution to fund.
A motion to make a final counter offer of $112.5K to the landowner passed unanimously.
Resolution 2025-02 amends the 2025 General Fund Budget to allow for litigation expenses concerning the City of Maumelle v. Scott Hall legal issue.
This resolution is to provide funding to pursue the legal case in the event the offer is not accepted.
This also reinforces the City's stanch that our last offer will indeed be final. If declined, we settle this in court.
The Resolution passed unanimously.
Mayor Norris announced about how Maumelle won 3 awards from the Municipal League, as we celebrate the 40th anniversary.
This is the 17th time in those 40 years has won the award that is given annual to the 7 best communities in Arkansas.
We also won two Friendship awards and acknowledgements for our other community activities.
Mayor Norris also complimented the work done by the Street crews during the recent snowfall. He received very few complaints,
and acknowledged the excellent work of department head Mike Hogan.
Director Hogan addressed the Council, explaining how they do their big pushes at night when the road have less traffic
and they can accomplish more. They start out with the main roads to assist emergency responders, and then move to the commercial areas.
Next they concentrate on getting sanitation routes running again. Then they start on secondary roads and neighborhoods. He discussed
certain roads that are so hilly that they create a danger not just to his crews, but the possibility of putting a truck into someone’s living room,
so they try to avoid that. They use salt calcium and sand as a hot mix. The Highway Department has another chemical mix that they
use to pretreat the interstates.
City Clerk Timmons takes the Chamber of Commerce for their participation during recent events.
January 6, 2025 Update
There was a lot of swearing at tonight’s meeting of the Maumelle City Council, as the last election cycle winners were sworn into office,
welcoming in new members LJ Wesley and Wes Booker. The Council was one member short, so all unanimous votes will count as a 7 to 1 vote,
since all absentees count as No votes
Since Mister Booker ran an unopposed campaign, Mayor Norris afforded him the opportunity to introduce himself. A football official,
he stated his appreciation of the opportunity. “I am here to serve the City.”
The First Reading of Ordinance 1141 Amends the Maumelle City Code Concerning Storm Drainage. Director of Planning and Permits Scott Grummer
explained that this update deals with the wording to describe 100 year storm flow and better protect at risk areas.
Council Member Booker asked how long the project will take. Mister Grummer explained that this is not a project, but an update to City Code
to establish new rules of law whenever new plans come in for development that will have to comply with the new language.
City Attorney Thornton spoke about how in years past developers did not take 100 year flows into account.
This change will require they make those considerations.
The First Reading of Ordinance 1142 to amend the City Code and reassign the duties of the Tree Board to the Department of Parks and Recreation.
I commented about how one resident had expressed an interest on being on the board that was about to be abolished. The Mayor and City Clerk said
that here had been a sign up page for a long time that no one had used. The five member board is currently vacant.
Resolution 2025-01 A Resolution Listing City Departments to eliminate or consolidate departments of the City of Maumelle by voice vote.
This deals with separating Animal Control into its own department, and provides a published list of the departments currently operating for the
City and their administrators. The motion passed unanimously.
The mayor shared the active transportation plan with the Council, the final version of the 2025 operating budget, and the contract for combining
Maumelle’s 911 call center with that of North Little Rock.
Member Gardner wish Kellie Wall, director of the Chamber of Commerce, a happy birthday and expressed his appreciation for her attendance on her personal day.
There is an opening on the Planning Commission. If you’ve ever thought about serving your community, here is an opportunity to do so.
The Maumelle City Council is accepting resumes from residents and will make an appointment to Position 1 for a four year term ending January 31, 2029.
Resumes should be submitted to Tina Timmons, City Clerk/Treasurer, and 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, Arkansas 72113 no later than 4:00 p.m. Thursday,
February 13, 2025. Resumes can also be emailed to cityclerk@maumelle.org. All applicants will be interviewed by the City Council at the Council meeting
scheduled for Tuesday,February 18, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The City Council will appoint immediately following the interviews. For additional information
please call Scott Grummer at 501-851-2500.
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2024.
Maumelle City Council
2024
Maumelle City Council2023 Notes:
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2023.
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 Wards MAP
MAUMELLE WARD MAP
March 17, 2025 Update
March 6, 2025 Update
March 3, 2025 Update
February 28, 2025 Update
February 24, 2025 Update
February 13, 2025 Update
February 3, 2025 Update
January 21, 2025 Update
January 6, 2025 Update
2024
Maumelle City Council2023 Notes:
Here is a link to all my notes pertaining to Maumelle's City Council during 2023.
MAUMELLE Wards MAP
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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