DECEMBER 2022 REGULAR MINUTES OF THE VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19,2022
The City Council of the City of Van Buren,Arkansas met at 5:30 p.m. Monday,December 19, 2022 at
the Van Buren Municipal Complex. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Hurst. On roll call,the
following Council members answered as their names were called: Council Member Bell,Dodson, Gifford,
Kneeland, and Wood, absent was Council Member Petty. Deputy City Clerk Shawnna Reynolds was present.
This made a total of five (5)present. A-quorum was declared.
The invocation was given by our City Attorney Jacob Howell.
City Attorney Jacob Howell then led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Presentation of the Key to the City from Mayor Joe Hurst to Phyllis Thomas.
City Clerk/Treasurer Phyllis Thomas has been employed by the City of Van Buren for over 24 years and
a public servant for almost 30. She will be retiring as of December 31,2022. She has been a very dedicated
and valuable employee and will be greatly missed.
Presentation from Mayor Joe Hurst and Chief Tim Arnold to Mr. Larry Gregory for his 33 years of
dedicated service to the citizens of Van Buren and to the Van Buren Fire Department. Mr. Larry Gregory will
be retiring as of December 31, 2022.
Mayor Hurst stated a big thank you to Phyllis Thomas City Clerk/Treasurer and congratulate all
employees on a very good legislative audit for 2021,there were no significant findings.
Mayor Hurst stated that the Ordinances from last month were misnumbered. We just need to get an oral
motion and approval from the City Council correcting a scrivener's error, so we can make the changes to the
ordinances.
Motion was made by Council Member Wood and seconded by Council Member Bell.
Next,the following items were on the consent agenda:
• MINUTES OF THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING ON NOVEMBER 26,2022.
• STREET CLOSURE—KING SCHOOL 5K RUN.
c RESOLUTION NO.12-01-2022—DFA COVID-19 POLICE DEPT GRANT.
• RESOLUTION NO.12-02-2022—SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR ABANDONING PUBLIC
UTILITY EASEMENT.
RESOLUTION NO.12-03-2022—ADOPTING REVISED EMPLOYMENT HANDBOOK(2).
• RESOLUTION NO.12-04-2022—HEALTH INSURANCE BENEFITS
• RESOLUTION NO.12-05-2022—CHRISTMAS BONUS
• RESOLUTION NO.12-06-2022—SIGNATURE CARDS
• FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
• DEPARTMENT REPORTS:POLICE—FIRE—BUILDING DEPARTMENT—PUBLIC
WORKS/PLANNING—AMBULANCE.
Council Member Gifford made a motion to approve the consent agenda. Council Member Bell
seconded the motion. Council members voted aye: five The following voted nay: none.
RESOLUTION NO. 12-01-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO.A- 0/ -2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL, FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO PAY
NINE-POINT TWO FIVE PERCENT (9.25%) OF THE
FEDERAL FUNDS AWARDED FROM THE DFA-
IGS/CESF/COVID-19 GRANT.
WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren was awarded$37,507.00 from the Arkansas Department of
Finance and Administration CESF/COVID-19 Grant for computer equipment;and I
WHEREAS, the grant did not include sales tax of$3,469.40 for a total of$40,976.40 to K&S
Computing for the computer equipment the city ordered;and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF VAN
BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: The Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to pay $40,976,40 to K&S
Computing, the city's portion being $3,469.40 of the total amount to DFA-
IGS/CESF/COVID-19 Grant.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did
pass,approve,and adopt,by a vote of_5_for and 0 against,the foregoing Resolution at its
regular meeting held on the 191h day of December 2022.
4P?Hur,t
;
ATTESTED: LAP. VED A O FORM:
P 1 s Thomas o eCity Clerk/Treasurer omey
t
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-01-2022
RESOLUTION NO. 12-02-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARIGANSAS
RESOLUTION NOX -qa-2022
r
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,A
RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING DATE FOR ABANDONING A
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT ALONG LOT 17 IN THE TWIN CIRCLE
ColvEvi ERCIAL CENTER,PHASE I ADDITION,INSIDE THE CITY LUVHTS OF
VAN BUREN,CRAWFORD COUNTY,ARKANSAS.
WHEREAS, Van Buren Cold Storage,LLC, represented by Isabel Glenn,Attorney,has petitioned the City
Council of Van Buren,Arkansas,to vacate and abandon the public utility easement along Lot 17
inside the Twin Circle Commercial Center,Phase I,more particularly described as follows:
PROPOSED VACATED AND ABANDONED EASEMENT DESCRIPTION
The North 10.00'of Lot 17,Twin Circle Commercial Center Phase I(filed for record August 7,
1979)Van Buren,Crawford County,Arkansas,containing 9,073 square feet or 0.21 acres more or
less;and
WHEREAS, all the property owners and adjacent property owners being affected by this public utility easement
abandonment have consented by signed petition;and
WHEREAS, the City Council of Van Buren,acting under the authority of A.C.A.14-199-103 and A.C.A.14-301-
302,has the authority to vacate public utility easements or segments thereof.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VAN
BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: A Public Hearing is set for January 23rd,2023,at 5:30 P.M.in the Van Buren City Council Room,at
which time said Petition shall be presented to the City Council and the City Council will determine
at that time if such portion of said public utility easement should be vacated and that all affected
property owners and other persons directly interested have consented to such vacating.
SECTION 2: The City Clerk of Van Buren,Arkansas,is hereby directed to give notice by publication once a week
for two consecutive weeks in some newspaper,published in Crawford County,advising the property
owners and others affected,of said date and time the Council will hear said Petition.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did pass,approve,and
adopt,by a vote of S for and 0 against,the foregoing Resolution at its regular meeting held on the 196'day of
December 2022.
�P
Joseph .Hurst
Mayor
ATTESTED: �2iPP OVED AS RM:
Phy s Thomas ow
"'
City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-02-2022
RESOLUTION NO. 12-03-2022 A
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO._LZ- Q-3-2022 A
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL, FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE REVISED POLICY MANUAL
GOVERNING CITY EMPLOYEES FOR THE CITY OF VAN
BUREN, ARKANSAS, AND REPEALING THE EXISTING
POLICY MANUAL;AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, it is necessary to update and revise the existing Employee Policy Manual for the City of
Van Buren to conform to changes in law and policy;and
WHEREAS, a copy of the revised section, 4.6.2 UNIFORM ALLOWANCE-POLICE
DEPARTMENT in Employee Policy Manual is attached hereto and all employees shall
receive a copy of the revised policy manual page.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION I: The revised Employee Policy Manual for the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,section 4.6.2
UNIFORM ALLOWANCE-POLICE DEPARTMENT,attached hereto is hereby adopted
and the existing Policy Manual dated August 22,2022 is hereby repealed.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did'pass,
approve,and adopt,by a vote of-for and against,the foregoing Resolution at its regular meeting
held on the 191s day of December 2022.
/r
P. urst
Mayor
ATTESTED: AP AVE O FORM:
P*lYis Thom As e
City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-03-2022 A
RESOLUTION NO. 12-03-2022 B
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO.-1 -03-2022 �y
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL, FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE REVISED POLICY MANUAL
GOVERNING CITY EMPLOYEES FOR THE CITY OF VAN
BUREN, ARKANSAS, AND REPEALING THE EXISTING j
POLICY MANUAL;AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES_
WHEREAS, it is necessary to update and revise the existing Employee Policy Manual for the City of
Van Buren to conform to changes in law and policy;and
WHEREAS, a copy of the revised section,5.4.2 FIRE DEPARTMENT in Employee Policy Manual is +
attached hereto and all employees shall receive a copy of the revised policy manual page.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: The revised Employee Policy Manual for the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,section 5.4.2
FIRE DEPARTMENT,attached hereto is hereby adopted and the existing Policy Manual
dated August 22,2022,is hereby repealed.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did pass,
t approve,and adopt,by a vote of S for and against,the foregoing Resolution at its regular meeting
held on the 191'day of December 2022.
Jo�p ur
Mayor
ATTESTED: PROVED AS T
P yl is Thormls Jacob Howe
City Clerk/Treasurer City Atto ey
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-03-2022 B
RESOLUTION NO. 12-04-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO. 1A -Oq-2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED: ' I
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING HEALTH INSURANCE
BENEFITS FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN.
WHEREAS, City of Van Buren currently provides health insurance and related benefits to full time
employees,elected officials,former elected officials eligible under Ordinance 26-1978;
and
WHEREAS, the cost of providing health insurance to those eligible is a very substantial
expense to the city;and
WHEREAS, the current health insurance rates will increase effective January 1,2023.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF VAN
BUREN,ARKANSAS:
SECTION 1: Health Insurance shall be made available to each full time employee and elected official
through the Arkansas Municipal League Municipal Health Benefit Fund.The City will
pay the full cost of health insurance for the employee or elected official and up to a
maximum of$1,004.20 per month for the employee or elected official with family
coverage.
SECTION 2: Health Insurance shall be made available through the Arkansas Municipal League
Municipal Health Benefit Fund to each former elected official eligible for such benefits
under Ordinance No.26-1978 and Ordinance No.22-2005.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,
did pass,approve,and adopt,by a vote of f for and 0 against,the foregoing Resolution
at its Regular Meeting held on the 19a'day ofDecember 2022.
urst
Mayor
ATTESTED: PROVED A ORM:
P yTis Thomas acob Howell
City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney.
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-04-2022
RESOLUTION NO. 12-05-2022
P.
CITY OF VAN BUREN,�ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO-,'1 -b-6)7 -2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN
BUREN ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR($100.00)
CHRISTMAS BONUS TO ALL FULL-TM,NON-ELECTED CITY
EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE ONE(1)FULL YEAR OF SERVICE AS OF
DECEMBER 1,2022.
WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren,Arkansas has paid a Christmas
Bonus to its salaried employees in the past;and
WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren,Arkansas wishes to continue this
practice.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL
OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: All full-time,non-elected city employees who have one
(1)full year of service as of December 1,2022,shall be
paid a one hundred dollar($100.00)bonus for Christmas.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,
did pass,approve,and adopt,by a vote of_for and_against,the foregoing Resolution
at its regular meeting held on the 191"day of December 2022.
os h .Hurst
r
ATTESTED: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
llis Thomas Jaco
City Clerk/Treasurer ity Attorney
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-05-2022
RESOLUTION NO. 12-06-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO.L-L b-2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION RELATING TO SIGNATURE CARDS FOR
THE CITY OF VAN BUREN.
WHEREAS, City Clerk-Treasurer Phyllis Thomas will be retiring her position effective December 31,
2022;and
WHEREAS, Shawnna Reynolds has been elected to the position of City Clerk-Treasurer effective
January 1,2023;and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize signatures of certain individuals to draw vouchers on fiords
deposited in various banks by the City of Van Buren,Arkansas;and
WHEREAS, it is also necessary to authorize signatures of certain individuals for entry into Safety
Deposit Box or Boxes now leased by the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,or leased by
them in the future.
NOW,THE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION I: Effective January 1,2023,the said bank or banks are hereby authorized to pay out funds i
on deposits with them from time to time to be credited to the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,
upon vouchers drawn upon said banks and signed by any combination ofthe following two
persons: Mayor Joe Hurst, City Clerk-Treasurer Shawnna Reynolds, Administrative
Assistant Julie Copple,or Deputy City Clerk Kim Lackey.
SECTION 2: Effective upon passage of this resolution,the said bank or banks are authorized to allow
into Safety Deposit Box or Boxes now in the name ofthe City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by
the Mayor Joe Hurst,or the City Clerk-Treasurer Shawnna Reynolds,or Administrative
Assistant Julie Copple,or Deputy City Clerk Kim Lackey,or by any one of them.
SECTION 3: Mayor Joe Hurst,City Clerk-Treasurer Shawnna Reynolds,Administrative Assistant
Julie Copple,and Deputy City Clerk Kim Lackey,are authorized and directed to sign
signature cards with each of the banks to conduct the purposes of this Resolution.
SECTION 4: The City Clerk-Treasurer is directed to furnish a copy of this Resolution under the Seal of
the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,to each ofthe banks with which the City has or will have
Depository arrangements and/or Safety Deposit Boxes.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas by its City Council,did pass,
approve,and adopt,by a vote of 5 for and 4 against,the foregoing Resolution at its regular meeting
held on the 19°i day of December 2022.
J�s ph P Hurst
Ma or
ATTESTED: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Ph I s Thomas Jacob How 11--
City Clerk ity Attomey
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-06-2022
R
FINANCIAL STATEMENT NOVEMBER 2022
Y
S
{
i
I
NOVEMBER 2022
1
j TOTAL EXPENDITURES:
i
- $1,292,781.80
I
(j
E
4
RESOLUTION NO. 12-07-2022
On the agenda next was to consider A RESOLUTION AWARDING A SERVICE SIDEARM TO
CORPORAL SCOTTY W.WOOTEN UPON HIS RETIREMENT.
The Clerk read the Resolution in its entirety.
Mayor Hurst asked Chief Jamie Hammond if he would like to speak.
Chief Hammond stated that Corporal Wooten is retiring from the City on December 31, 2022 after 23
years, 3 months and 16 days of service. Corporal Wooten has always been a solid part of the agency and could
always be counted on.
Mayor Hurst asked if there was any discussion.
Motion was made by Council Member Bell, seconded by Council Member Dodson moved that the
Resolution be adopted. On the Clerk's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: Ayes—Council Member
Wood,Bell,Dodson, Gifford and Kneeland. Nays—None.
The Mayor thereupon declared the Resolution adopted and signed the Resolution,which was attested by
the City Clerk and impressed with the seal of the City.
The Mayor declared the motion carried as there were five(5)AYES and zero (0)NAYS.
The.Mayor then declared the Resolution passed and signed same in open Council, duly attested by the
City Clerk.
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-07-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO. L-Qj-2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION AWARDING A SERVICE SIDEARM TO
CORPORAL SCOTTY W. WOOTEN UPON HIS
RE,TIREMENT.
WHEREAS, Van Buren Police Corporal Scotty W.Wooten is retiring from the City on
December 31,2022,after 23 years,3 months and 16 days of service;and
WHEREAS, Corporal Scotty W.Wooten has demonstrated his dedication to duty and to the
citizens of the City of Van Buren,Arkansas;and
WHEREAS, upon regular service retirement under honorable circumstances,the City wishes to
recognize Corporal Scotty W.Wooten's service as a police officer,and award to
him his issued sidearm carried by him at the time of his retirement from service.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE F
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: The City Council for the City of Van Buren adopts this Resolution awarding this
service sidearm,a Glock G45,Generation 5,9mm caliber pistol,Serial Number
BLBF153,to Corporal Scotty W.Wooten upon his retirement December 31,
2022.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arlcansas,.by its*City Council,did
pass,approve,and adopt,by a vote off for and Q against,the foregoing Resolution at its
regular meeting held on the 19°'day of December 2022.
Jose .Hurst
Mayor
ATTESTED: P D
grlr�Thnmac aco Howell
C•ti,r i* o i,rT �.,= City Attorney
RESOLUTION NO. 12-08-2022
On the agenda next was to consider A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A PROPOSED BUDGET FOR
THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,2022.
The Cleric read the Resolution in its entirety.
Mayor Hurst thanked all the department heads for all their hard work and the services they provide to
the city.
Mayor Hurst stated that the sales tax projection for sales tax and county will be up by 6%. The city will
be giving a 3%raise for all employees and will be covering the cost of rising insurance premiums.
Mayor Hurst asked if there was any discussion.
Motion was made by Council Member Wood, seconded by Council Member Kneeland moved that the
Resolution be adopted. On the Clerk's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: Ayes—Council Member
Wood, Bell,Dodson, Gifford, and Kneeland. Nays—None.
The Mayor thereupon declared the Resolution adopted and signed the Resolution,which was attested by
the City Cleric and impressed with the seal of the City.
The Mayor declared the motion carried as there were five(5) AYES and zero (0)NAYS.
The Mayor then declared the Resolution passed and signed same in open Council, duly attested by the
City Clerk.
THE RESOLUTION WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 12-08-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
RESOLUTION NO.JA-09 -2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN
ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED:
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEM 3ER 31,2023.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF VAN
BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: The 2023 Proposed Expenditures of $22,743,162.00 (Twenty-Two
Million,Seven Hundred Forty-Three Thousand,One Hundred Sixty-Two
Dollars) is hereby appropriated and a copy of said Budget is attached
hereto and made apart hereof.
SECTION 2: The appropriations made herein include additional pay for
Holidays for all agents, servants, and employees of the City of Van
Buren including, but not limited to, uniformed employees, as
provided for by the laws of the State of Arkansas.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of.Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,
did pass,approve,and adopt,by a vote of_�_for and_L_against the foregoing Resolution at
its regular meeting held on the 19`h day of December 2022.
Jose P.Hurst
ayor
ATTESTED: APPRO O FORM:
Phyllis Thomas L�acob Hv�PeR
City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney
ORDINANCE 41-2022
On the agenda next was to consider AN ORDINANCE SETTING THE SALARIES OF THE
MAYOR, CITY CLERK-TREASURER AND CITY ATTORNEY; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY;
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Clerk read the Ordinance in its entirety. Council Member Bell moved that the rules be suspended,
and the Ordinance be placed on its second reading. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wood. The
Council followed with a unanimous vote. The Clerk then read the Ordinance the second time.
Council Member Bell moved that the rules be further suspended, and the Ordinance was placed on the
third and final reading. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wood. The Council followed with a
unanimous vote. The Clerk then read the Ordinance the third and final time.
The Mayor asked if there was any discussion. There was none.
Motion was made by Council Member Bell and seconded by Council Member Kneeland to adopt the
Ordinance as amended. On the Clerk's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: AYES—Council Member
Wood, Bell,Dodson, Gifford, and Kneeland. NAYS—None.
The Mayor declared the motion carried as there were five (5)AYES and zero (0)NAYS.
Motion was made by Council Member Gifford and seconded by Council Member Dodson that the
emergency clause be adopted. On the Clerk's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: AYES—Council
Member Wood, Bell, Dodson, Gifford, and Kneeland. NAYS—None.
The Mayor then declared the Ordinance passed and signed same in open Council, duly attested by the
City Clerk.
ORDINANCE 41-2022
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
ORDINANCE NOA-2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL, FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS,AN ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED.
AN ORDINANCE SETTING TEE SALARIES OF THE
MAYOR, CITY CLERK-TREASURER AND CITY
ATTORNEY; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the Van Buren City Council desires to grant salary increase for the Mayor,City Clerk-
Treasurer and City Attorney, which would be reflected on the city payroll beginning
January 1,2023.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARE ANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: Beginning on the first day of January 2023,the annual salaries for the Mayor,City Clerk-
Treasurer and City Attorney shall be as follows:
MAYOR $93,009.00
CITY CLERK-TREASURER $63,809.00
CITY ATTORNEY $14,935.00
SECTION 2: It is further found that due to the need to process the payroll an emergency is declared to
exist and this ordinance being necessary for the preservation of the public health,safety,
and welfare,it shall take effect from and after its passage and approval.
IN WrINESS'WEEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did pass,
approve,and adopt,by a vote of_5 for and 0 against,the foregoing Ordinance at its regular
meeting held on the'19°i day of December 2022.
J ph R urst
a or
t
ATTESTED: AP/
PPR
,�OIi .AZgmrt�aJ
Pl yl is Thomas aco owe l
City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney
ORDINANCE 42-2022
P
On the agenda next was to consider AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE NO. 7-1963 VAN
BUREN MUNICIPAL CODE NO. 14.04.01)FOR THE PURPOSE OF REZONING CERTAIN
PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF
THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Cleric read the Ordinance in its entirety.
Council Member Bell moved that the rules be suspended; and the Ordinance be placed on its second
reading. The motion was seconded by Council Member Kneeland. The Council followed with a unanimous
vote. The Clerk then read the Ordinance the second time.
Council Member Bell moved that the rules be further suspended, and the Ordinance was placed on the
third and final reading. The motion was seconded by Council Member Kneeland. The Council followed with a
unanimous vote. The Clerk then read the Ordinance the third and final time.
Mayor Hurst asked Mr. Wally Bailey,Planning Director,to speak on this ordinance.
Mr. Wally Bailey explained the city received a rezoning application from First Assembly of God Church, Van
Buren. The purpose of this rezoning application is to clarify the zoning of the property at 1014 Fayetteville
Road. During a recent review of the zoning map and previous ordinances,we discovered an error or omission
in the rezoning ordinance for this property. There has been an assumption that this property was already zoned
R-3 since 2005. The legal description within the ordinance did not include all the church property but the City's
zoning map has shown this property to be rezoned since 2005. When this was discovered, I discussed the
matter with the church, and we worked together to correct the record related to the zoning of the church
property.
The Mayor asked if there was any further discussion. There was none.
Motion was made by Council Member Wood and seconded by Council Member Gifford to adopt the
Ordinance as amended. On the Clerk's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: AYES—Council Member
Wood, Bell,Dodson, Gifford and Kneeland.
The Mayor declared the motion carried as there were five (5)AYES. NAYS—None.
The Mayor then declared the Ordinance passed and signed same in open Council, duly attested by the
City Cleric.
ORDINANCE 42-2022
ORDINANCE NO. 42-2022 cont.
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
ORDINANCE NO.J,�-2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,
ARKANSAS AN ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE NO. 7-1963
VAN 13UREN MUNICIPAL CODE NO.14.04.01) FOR THE
PURPOSE OF REZONING CERTAIN PROPERTY IN THE
CITY OF VAN BUREN, ARKANSAS, AMENDING THE
ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,is duly incorporated under the law of the State
of Arkansas,with all powers,authority,and duties of a city of the first class;and
WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren has adopted the Zoning Ordinance for the City of Van
Buren(Ordinance No.7-1963);and
I
WHEREAS, a request has been made by First Assembly of God of Van Buren to rezone !
certain property within the city limits of the City of Van Buren;and
WHEREAS, notice of a Public Hearing was duly published in the Times Record on November 1
20,2022,and a public hearing was conducted as required by law(A.C.A 14-56-
422)on December 6,2022;and
WHEREAS, as a result of this hearing,the Planning Commission recommended that certain
property within the city limits of the City of Van Buren be rezoned from its
previous classification to the following:
Property Zoned New Zoning
C-2 Thoroughfare Commercial District R-3 Multi-Family Residential
&R-1 Single Family District
Legal Description:
First Assembly of God Van Buren Lot IA
WHEREAS, the proposed rezoning herein was recommended by a majority vote of the entire
Planning Commission,in accordance with A.C.A.14-56-422.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: The above-described property is hereby rezoned from C-2 and R-I to R-3 and the
Van Buren Zoning Map is amended to reflect this rezoning. }
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did 11
pass,approve,and adopt,by a vote of 5 for and 0 against,the foregoing Ordinance at its
regular meeting held on the 19'h day of December 2022.
Jos pla Hurst
or
ATTESTED: ZAP ED ASP y is Thomas City Clerk/Treasurer ttomey
THE ORDINANCE WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 42-2022
ORDINANCE 43-2022
P.
On the agenda next was to consider AN ORDINANCE TO WAIVE COMPETITIVE BIDDING
AND AUTHORIZE A CONTRACT FOR,AND PURCHASE OF,APEX OFFICER TRAINING
SIMULATOR FROM GOVRED TECHNOLOGY,INC.; FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS;
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Cleric read the Ordinance in its entirety. Council Member Dodson moved that the rules be
suspended, and the Ordinance be placed on its second reading. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Gifford. The Council followed with a unanimous vote. The Cleric then read the Ordinance the second time.
Council Member Dodson moved that the rules be further suspended, and the Ordinance was placed on
the third and final reading. The motion was seconded by Council Member Kneeland. The Council followed
with a unanimous vote. The Clerk then read the Ordinance the third and final time.
Mayor Hurst asked Chief Hammond if he would speak on this ordinance.
Chief Hammond explained the City of Van Buren has been awarded a 2022 DPS Public Safety
Equipment Grant. He stated that the Police Department is in need of certain police equipment for the safety of
life and protection of property in the City of Van Buren, The Police Department has an immediate need for an
APEX Officer Training Simulator from Govred Technology, Inc. This is a virtual reality self-contained training
simulator.
The Mayor asked if there was any discussion.
Motion was made by Council Member Wood and seconded by Council Member Dodson to adopt the
Ordinance as amended. On the Clerk's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: AYES—Council Member
Wood, Bell,Dodson, Gifford, and Kneeland. NAYS—None.
The Mayor declared the motion carried as there were five (5)AYES and zero (0)NAYS.
Motion was made by Council Member Wood and seconded by Council Member Gifford that the
emergency clause be adopted. On the Cleric's calling the roll,the following vote resulted: AYES—Council
Member Wood, Bell, Dodson, Gifford, and Kneeland. NAYS—None.
The Mayor then declared the Ordinance passed and signed same in open Council, duly attested by the
City Cleric.
ORDINANCE 43-2022
ORDINANCE NO. 43-2022 cont.
. 1
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
ORDINANCE NO.4 L-2022
BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS
AN ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED:
i
AN ORDINANCE TO WAIVE COMPETITIVE BIDDING AND
AUTHORIZE A CONTRACT FOR,AND PURCHASE OF,APEX
OFFICER TRAINING SIMULATOR FROM GOVRED
TECHNOLOGY,INC.;FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS;
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY;AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren has been awarded a 2022 DPS Public Safety Equipment Grant
Program award in the amount of$67,500.00,and is in need of certain police equipment
for the safety of life and protection of property in the City of Van Buren;and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined,pursuant to A.C.A.§14-58-303(b)(2)(B),that
exceptional circumstances exist which render the competitive bidding process impractical
and unfeasible.
NOW,THE, BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,THAT:
SECTION 1: The Police Department of the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,has an immediate need to
purchase APEX Officer Training Simulator from Govred Technology,Inc.,for the total
sum of$67,500.00,from the grant awarded by 2022 DPS Public Safety Equipment Grant
Program.See Exhibit A.
SECTION 2: Pursuant to A.C.A.§14-58-303b 2 i()()(B),the City Council hereby waives the requirement
of competitive bidding and directs the Mayor to purchase the above described equipment
for the price set forth in Section 1 above.
SECTION 3: Due to the immediate need to best serve,protect,and preserve the public health,safety,
and welfare of the citizens of the City of Van Buren,an emergency is declared to exist
and this ordinance shall take effect from and after its passage and approval.
SECTION 4: The Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized by the City Council for the City of Van
Buren to execute all documents,contracts,and agreements necessary to effectuate this
Ordinance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the City of Van Buren,Arkansas,by its City Council,did pass,
approve,and adopt,by a vote of�for and D against,the foregoing Ordinance at its regular meeting
held on the 191 day of December 2022.
oseph P HJr9tI
ATTESTED: PROVED AS T FORM:
Phyllis Thom rTl�cob
City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney
THE ORDINANCE WAS GIVEN THE NUMBER 43-2022
Next on the agenda was Miscellaneous and General Discussion
a. Almost Home Animal Rescue and Shelter proposed remodel.
Connie Martin with Almost Home Animal Rescue stated there are plans to expand the size of the shelter to help
more dogs in addition to making life at the shelter better and safer for the current dogs and volunteers. The
design will ensure more dogs are kept inside,with outdoor runs,,an isolation area, and a separate intake area for
Animal Control to bring in new dogs. The intake area will not only greatly reduce the stress level of the dogs,
but it will also help reduce the spread of disease when Animal Control brings in a sick dog. Furthermore,
insulation and new heat/air will be added to the original building. Several businesses and individuals are giving
donations that will help with the renovation budget. The shelter is still in need of the city's help with the
remodel.
At this time the van needs repair or needs to be replaced. The van is very critical to the shelter.
Council Member Bell asked if Almost Home could calculate a proposed budget for the City Council to vote on
at the January 2023 meeting. Connie Martin agreed to get a proposal sent to the Mayor before the next City
Council meeting on January 23,2023.
The City Council approves, effective l/1/2023 that Shawnna Reynolds, City Clerk/Treasurer will have the
ability to make changes as needed to current banking procedures. This includes,but is not limited to adding
bank,accounts to online access,making remote deposits, changing credit card users, and determining who has
appropriate access,
There being no further business,motion was made by Council Member Gifford and seconded by
Council Member Dodson to adjourn. The Council followed with a unanimous vote. The meeting adjourned at
6:12 p.m.
ATTE ED APPROVED:
CITY CLERK-T�SURER MAYOR