Benton public meetings in 2023

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission will meet to review financial reports and discuss city signage. The body is scheduled to hold a second reading and vote regarding funding for Literacy Action of Central Arkansas.

• Vote on funding for Literacy Action of Central Arkansas
• Report on the development of Exit 114 Property
• Discussion of signage for parking
• Financial reports including Profit and Loss and Bank Balances

City Meeting Calendar

The committee is reviewing four proposed property condemnations. Members will also discuss a draft ordinance to amend zoning for mini and self-storage facilities before a current moratorium expires on March 27, 2024.

• Proposed condemnations: 1423 Cedar Street, 305 S. Main Street, 712 Edison Avenue, and 422 W. South Street
• Proposed ordinance to move Mini/Self-Storage to C3 and LI Zones with Conditional Use approval
• Review of mini storage/self storage moratorium expiring March 27, 2024

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee is meeting to discuss three specific ordinances. The session will focus on speed cushions, parking restrictions, and street cut procedures.

• Speed Cushions Ordinance
• No Parking Ordinance
• Street Cut Cost & Procedure Ordinance

The committee approved an ordinance for a neighborhood traffic control program and a new formula for street cut permit costs. A proposed no-parking ordinance was tabled following discussion.

• Approved speed cushions ordinance for neighborhood traffic control program
• Tabled No Parking Ordinance
• Approved Street Cut Cost and Procedure formula for permit fees

City Meeting Calendar

The Parks Committee is meeting to discuss ActiveNet fees and city observed holidays. The body will also conduct a review of the annual report.

• ActiveNet fees
• City observed holidays
• Annual report review

The Parks Committee approved a resolution to purchase a hydraulic stage for city events, with Farmers Bank & Trust paying half the cost. The committee also reviewed ActiveNet processing fees and confirmed the Parks Department will observe the same holidays as City Hall.

• Approved resolution to purchase hydraulic stage with $95,037.50 contribution from Farmers Bank & Trust
• Approved October 10, 2023, minutes

City Council Meetings

The Commissions Committee will meet to discuss appointments and zoning changes. The body is reviewing a commissioner appointment for the Public Utilities Commission and two specific property rezoning requests.

• Resolution to ratify Gary Ferrell as a Public Utilities Commission commissioner
• Ordinance to rezone #805-10090-001 from LI Light Industrial to C2 General Commercial
• Ordinance to rezone #800-53856-000 (706 Center Street) and #800-53859-000 from HI Heavy Industrial to R8 Multi Family District

The committee reviewed an informational update regarding a six-month term extension for PUC commissioner Gary Farrell. Two rezoning requests were discussed: one for an assisted living facility near Benton Parkway and another for duplexes at 706 Center St. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

• Discussed extension of PUC commissioner Gary Farrell's term for six months (informational only)
• Discussed rezoning of parcel 805-100-9000 to C2 for an assisted living facility
• Discussed rezoning of 706 Center St. from high industrial to RA multifamily for duplexes

Planning Commission Meetings

The commission approved several site plans and rezoning requests, including a transition from heavy industrial to multi-family at 706 Center Street. One variance request for Heritage Heights Phase 4 was tabled pending a potential replat. Other approvals included final plats for Spencer’s Crossing and Northshore @ Hurricane Lake Estates.

• Approved lot depth variance for 115 S. First Street (6-1)
• Tabled variance for #34 and #35 @ Heritage Heights Phase 4
• Approved duplex site plan for E. North Street (7-0)
• Approved Express Oil site plan at 2100 Highway 5 (6-1)
• Approved rezone of 706 Center Street from HI to R8 (7-0)
• Approved rezone of parcel #805-10090-001 from LI to C2 (7-0)
• Approved preliminary plat for Preserve @ The Woodlands Phase 3 (7-0)
• Approved final plats for Spencer’s Crossing Phase 1 and Northshore @ Hurricane Lake Estates Phase 6 (7-0)

City Meeting Calendar

The Utility Commission appointed new leadership for 2024 and approved a 90-day extension for the Salem and Southwest wholesale water contracts. The commission also approved the October financial reports and agreed to keep Commission Member Ferrell on the board until a replacement is appointed.

• Approved November 20th meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved October financials (3-0)
• Appointed Commission Member Johnston as Chairman (3-0)
• Appointed Commission Member Ponder as Vice Chairman (3-0)
• Approved 90-day extension for Salem and Southwest wholesale water contracts (3-0)
• Approved extension of Commission Member Ferrell's term until a new commissioner is appointed or for a maximum of 6 months (3-0)

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss several ordinances and resolutions, including land acquisition for road improvements and a conditional use permit for a solar farm. The body is also reviewing budget amendments and city employee pay structures.

• Ordinance 53: Acquisition of land by eminent domain for Congo Road and Shenandoah Road intersection improvements
• Ordinance 52: Conditional use for a solar panel farm at Parcel #805-22300-007
• Resolution 119: $14,100 appropriation for 5 police department radars
• Ordinance 51: Modification of pay structure for General Fund, Street, Animal Control, and Parks employees
• Resolution 115: Condemnation and razing of structure at 1815 Sorrell Road

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission is holding its regular meeting to discuss and potentially approve several administrative items, including an update on the Saline Regional Public Water project, office policy discussions, health care insurance approval, and the budget. The meeting also includes an executive session for personnel matters.

• Approval of Health Care Insurance
• Budget Approval
• Update on Saline Regional Public Water project
• Office Policy Discussions
• Executive Session on Personnel Matters

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee is meeting to review project updates and discuss specific traffic and infrastructure issues. The body will consider an ordinance for street and utility maintenance and discuss eminent domain for a roundabout project.

• Eminent domain for Congo/Shenandoah roundabout project
• Ordinance for accepting maintenance of streets, drainage, and utilities for Severn Landing Phase 1
• Dual left turn discussion at Military/Carpenter
• Street cut permit proposal
• Manhole leveling on Military and Edison

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Taylor Clark provided status updates on numerous active and upcoming infrastructure projects, including drainage studies and road improvements.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Commissions Committee will receive updates from the PUC, A&P, and P&Z. The meeting includes a discussion on an ordinance regarding a conditional use for a solar panel farm.

• Proposed conditional use ordinance for solar panel farm at Parcel #805-22300-007
• PUC update on downtown water

The Planning commission approved a conditional use request for a solar farm. The committee also received a progress report on downtown water line upgrades funded by ARPA.

• Approved conditional use for solar farm

Animal Control

The Animal Control Committee is meeting to discuss operational changes and service protocols. The agenda focuses on how the department responds to animal calls and citizen complaints.

• Discussion of 24-7 service
• Discussion of responding to all animal calls
• Discussion of Foster Program
• Discussion of video and written statements from citizens regarding animal complaints

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The commission will review financial reports and a delinquency report. Members will discuss funding for Literacy Action of Central Arkansas and receive updates on the Exit 114 property development.

• Funding for Literacy Action of Central Arkansas
• Report on the development of Exit 114 Property
• Report from Benton Event Center
• Profit and Loss and Bank Balances reports

Planning Commission Meetings

The Benton Public Utilities Commission is holding its regular meeting to approve minutes, receive departmental reports on safety, September financials, and tax matters, and discuss old and new business. Key items include an update on the Saline Regional Public Water Authority, a request for auction approval, a discussion on crypto mining, and an opening for a new commissioner. The meeting also includes an executive session for personnel matters.

• Update on Saline Regional Public Water Authority
• Request for auction approval
• Discussion on crypto mining
• Opening for new commissioner
• September financials report

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing financial reports, and hearing updates on the Benton Event Center and the development of the Exit 114 property. No funding requests are on the agenda, and the meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions listed.

• Review of Profit and Loss report by Jordan Woolbright
• Bank balances and collections report by Mandy Spicer
• Delinquency report by Mandy Spicer
• Update on Benton Event Center vacuum cleaner by Nikki Chumley
• Discussion of Exit 114 property development by Bill Eldridge

City Meeting Calendar

The Community Services Committee is meeting to review three proposed property condemnations at 916 Ridge Rd, 1815 Sorrell Rd, and 914 Banner St. The agenda also includes approval of the September 12th minutes and recognition of attendees.

• Discussion/review of proposed condemnation at 916 Ridge Rd
• Discussion/review of proposed condemnation at 1815 Sorrell Rd
• Discussion/review of proposed condemnation at 914 Banner St
• Approval of September 12th, 2023 meeting minutes

City Meeting Calendar

The Parks Committee will discuss projects regarding the Ralph Bunche Park Amphitheater and Riverside & Bernard Holland Field. The meeting also includes a discussion of Ordinance 28 of 2023 and a request regarding pickleball.

• Ralph Bunche Park Amphitheater discussion
• Riverside & Bernard Holland Field work
• Ordinance 28 of 2023
• Pickleball request

The Parks Committee approved the minutes from the September 12, 2023 meeting. The committee discussed upcoming bid openings for the Ralph Bunche Park Amphitheater and field work at Riverside and Bernard Holland Park, as well as a request for discounted pickleball event rates.

• Approved September 12, 2023 minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee is meeting to review August and September financials, discuss a 2024 budget presentation, and consider a budget amendment for a police equipment grant. They will also discuss bank rates, a pole audit request for qualifications, and an update to a resolution regarding city employees conducting business with the city.

• Police Equipment Grant fund budget amendment
• Pole Audit RFQ recommendation
• CD Bank Rates discussion
• Update to Resolution to allow employees of the City to conduct business with the City
• 2024 Budget presentation

Animal Control

The Benton Animal Control Committee is meeting to discuss several operational topics, including a possible new name for the facility, a newsletter, foster and volunteer programs, transitioning to paperless records, hiring a certified vet tech, and the Trap Neuter Release program. No formal votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; it is primarily a discussion meeting.

• Discussion of a new name for the animal control facility
• Discussion of a newsletter
• Discussion of foster and volunteer programs
• Discussion of going paperless
• Discussion of a certified vet tech position

The committee reviewed updates regarding the agency's name, newsletter, foster and volunteer programs, and the transition to paperless records. A resident reported a barking dog nuisance at 2312 Fox Trail. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

City Council Meetings

The Benton Commissions Committee is meeting to discuss an ordinance that would waive competitive bidding to authorize and ratify the repair of two Chenault Reservoir pumps for the Benton Utilities Water Purification Department, declared an emergency. The committee will also hear updates from the Parks and Recreation (A&P) committee, which is accepting applications for a commissioner seat, and from Planning and Zoning (P&Z).

• Ordinance waiving competitive bidding for repair of two Chenault Reservoir pumps (emergency declared)
• A&P accepting applications for commissioner seat; review scheduled for October 18, 2023
• Information from PUC (Todd Pederson) and P&Z (John Parton)

The committee reviewed a proposal to waive competitive bidding for the repair of two water pumps at the Chenault Reservoir. No formal votes were taken during this meeting; the ordinance will be brought before the council at the next meeting.

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission is holding a special meeting to review departmental reports, including safety updates and August financials, and to consider new business items. The commission will discuss waiving bids for a reservoir pump rebuild and approving an auction request. The meeting is primarily administrative, with no executive session planned.

• Waiving bids for reservoir pump rebuild
• Request for auction approval
• Approval of minutes from September 5th regular meeting
• Safety/Personnel update by Terrie Sossamon
• August financials report by Jimmy Garrett

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, reviewing financial reports, and receiving updates on the Benton Event Center and the development of the Exit 114 property. No funding requests or new business items are on the agenda.

• Review of profit and loss reports
• Bank balances and collections report
• Delinquency report
• Update on Benton Event Center
• Update on Exit 114 property development

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Community Services Committee will meet to approve minutes, discuss a nomination for the Historic District Commission, and receive updates on a Planning Commission town hall and 2022 condemnations. The agenda is mostly routine, with the main action being the nomination of Jana Hogue.

• Nomination of Jana Hogue for Historic District Commission
• Planning Commission Town Hall, Ward 5, Sept. 19, 6pm, Hurricane Lake Estates POA, 6015 Worth Ave
• 2022 Condemnations status report
• Approval of August 15, 2023 minutes

The committee approved the nomination of Ms. Hogue to the Historic District Commission. The board also reviewed 2022 and 2023 condemnation progress and discussed a noise complaint regarding GracePoint church.

• Approved August 15th minutes
• Approved nomination of Ms. Hogue to the Historic District Commission

City Meeting Calendar

The Parks Committee approved the 2024 price sheet, which includes increases of $5 to $10 to offset inflation. The committee also approved contracts for softball, swimming, and tennis, as well as a concessionaire RFQ bid.

• Approved August 15th, 2023 minutes
• Approved Softball Contract
• Approved 2024 Price Sheet with $5 to $10 increases
• Approved Concessionaire RFQ bid from Scott Hill
• Approved BHS Swim Contract
• Approved Tennis Contract for Tyndall Park tennis courts
• Tabled discussion on promotional table at River Center

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee is meeting to review July and August 2023 financials, discuss a police car purchase, and consider budget amendments for Fire Station #4 foundation repair and acceptance of a Fire AFG grant. They will also consider a resolution allowing city employees to conduct business with the city.

• Benton Utilities July financials
• Police car purchase
• Fire Station #4 foundation repair budget amendment
• Fire AFG grant acceptance and budget amendment
• Resolution to allow city employees to conduct business with the city

City Council Meetings

The committee discussed a pending appointment for the Public Utilities Commission and a rezoning request for properties on 1st Street and Pearson. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

• Discussed PUC commissioner candidate; action item deferred to a future council meeting
• Discussed rezoning of 115 S 1st St, 121 1st St, and 200 Pearson from R5 Multifamily to TC2 Town City zone

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission is holding a regular meeting to review departmental reports, including July financials, and discuss old and new business. Key items include a possible CAO extension, a surface water transfer permit for SRPWA, and an introduction to a power cost adjustment for rates. The meeting will also address a commissioner opening and a Saline Regional Public Water Authority liaison.

• Discussion of CAO extension
• SRPWA Surface Water Transfer Permit
• Introduction to Power Cost Adjustment for Rates
• Commissioner opening
• July financials report

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including revising stormwater fees, authorizing a contract with the Benton School District for eight school resource officers, and approving a real estate lease with Habitat for Humanity. The agenda also includes items on franchise procedures, cemetery property recognition, and budget amendments.

• Ordinance 40 of 2023: Revises stormwater control fees, amending several prior ordinances.
• Resolution 87 of 2023: Authorizes contract with Benton School District for eight school resource officers.
• Resolution 85 of 2023: Authorizes real estate lease with Habitat for Humanity of Saline County.
• Ordinance 41 of 2023: Waives competitive bidding to purchase two Flygt dry pit pumps for wastewater treatment, declaring an emergency.
• Resolution 90 of 2023: Amends 2023 budget for midyear line item shifts.

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing financial reports, and hearing updates on the Benton Event Center and the development of the Exit 114 property. They will also discuss a commissioner vacancy, an emergency backup system and ice machine at the Event Center, and 2024 advertising plans. No funding requests are on the agenda.

• Bids received for Thomas Property fence at Exit 114
• Emergency backup system at Benton Event Center
• Ice machine at Benton Event Center
• 2024 advertising plans
• Commissioner vacancy

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Community Services Committee will discuss proposed condemnations for four properties and consider an amendment to Ordinance 64 of 2021 that would extend the franchise application review deadline to 30 days. The committee will also discuss relinquishing property rights to Hughes Cemetery and remind about upcoming Planning Commission town hall meetings.

• Proposed condemnations: 3012 Edison Avenue, 1921 River Street, 800 S. Summit Road, 218 Jackman Street
• Amendment to Ordinance 64 of 2021 to change franchise application deadline from 7 to 30 days before council meeting
• Discussion on relinquishing property rights to Hughes Cemetery
• Planning Commission town hall meetings: Ward 3 Aug 24, Ward 4 Sep 7, Ward 5 Sep 19
• Approval of July 11, 2023 minutes

The committee approved the condemnation of four properties and amended the franchise agreement application timeline. The city is also researching the relinquishment of property rights to Hughes Cemetery.

• Approved amendment to Ordinance 64 of 2021 requiring franchise applications be submitted 30 days prior to council meetings
• Approved condemnation of 3012 Edison Avenue
• Approved condemnation of 1921 River Street
• Approved condemnation of 800 S. Summit Road
• Approved condemnation of 218 Jackman Street
• Approved July 11th minutes

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss the Ralph Bunche Park Amphitheater, a concessionaire contract, and public meeting information. The agenda includes routine items like call to order, approval of minutes, and adjournment.

• Discussion of Ralph Bunche Park Amphitheater
• Concessionaire contract review
• Public meeting information

The Parks Committee approved moving forward with a bid for the Ralph Bunche Amphitheater project with a budget not to exceed $350,000. The committee also approved issuing an updated RFP for concessions to increase profit back to 15%.

• Approved June 13th, 2023 minutes
• Approved bidding for Ralph Bunche Amphitheater project (not to exceed $350,000)
• Approved updated RFP for Concessions to increase profit to 15%

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Stormwater Committee will discuss using federal transportation funds for the Military Road Connector project, accept streets, utilities, and stormwater drainage for Northshore Ridge, and receive updates from McClelland Engineering. The meeting is procedural, with no final votes expected.

• Resolution to use federal Surface Transportation Block Grant and Carbon Reduction Program funds for Military Road Connector
• Acceptance of streets, utilities, and stormwater drainage for Northshore Ridge
• McClelland Engineering project updates

The Streets and Stormwater committee approved a resolution to seek federal grants for engineering a connector street between Military Rd. and the service road. The committee also approved the city's acceptance of streets and drainage for the North Shore Ridge subdivision for maintenance.

• Approved resolution to utilize Federal Transportation Program funds for Military Rd. connector engineering
• Approved ordinance to accept North Shore Ridge streets, utilities, and stormwater drainage for maintenance
• Approved minutes from July 11th meeting

City Council Meetings

The Commissions Committee is meeting to discuss and likely recommend action on an ordinance that waives competitive bidding to purchase two new Flygt pumps for the Benton Utilities Wastewater Treatment Department, replacing three damaged pumps. The committee will also consider a resolution confirming Greg Shinn's appointment to the Advertising and Promotions Commission and receive an update on zoning town halls.

• Ordinance waiving competitive bidding to replace three damaged pumps with two Flygt dry pit 3153 MT 460/3/60 20HP pumps (Option 2), declaring an emergency
• Resolution ratifying appointment of Greg Shinn as commissioner to the Benton Advertising and Promotions Commission
• Update from P&Z on zoning town halls

The committee reviewed a proposal to purchase wastewater treatment pumps and discussed the ongoing moratorium on mini-storage facilities. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

• Discussed ordinance to waive competitive bidding for $97,821.41 wastewater pump purchase from JTyler construction LLC
• Discussed potential appointment of Greg Shinn as A&P commissioner
• Discussed potential revocation of licenses for severely delinquent A&P accounts

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee is meeting to review financial reports, including June 2023 financials and the 2022 audit, and to consider a mid-year budget amendment. They will also discuss contracts and items related to public safety, including a proposed Habitat contract, a school resource officer contract, a public safety grant request, and surplus police property.

• June 2023 financials and 2022 audit presentation
• Habitat proposed contract
• Benton School District SRO contract 2023-2024
• Public Safety Grant ask
• Mid-Year Budget amendment

City Council Meetings

The Personnel, Health & Safety Committee is meeting to receive updates on revisions to the employee handbook and position descriptions, as well as departmental staffing. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; the items are presented as updates.

• Employee Handbook Revision - Update
• Position Descriptions Revision - Update
• Departmental Staffing - Update

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Planning & Zoning Commission will consider two variance requests, a site plan, and two subdivision plats, including a preliminary plat for Cottage Walk in the extraterritorial jurisdiction. The agenda also includes approving minutes from prior meetings and announcing upcoming ward town hall meetings.

• 6710 Kensington Drive: variance for gazebo (tabled from July 2023)
• 1218 River Street: variance for gravel and landscaping
• 1218 River Street: site plan
• Eden Estates Phase 4: final plat
• Cottage Walk: preliminary plat (ETJ)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission is holding a called meeting to review bids and approve minutes from the July meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no specific projects or dollar amounts listed.

• Review of bids
• Approval of minutes from July meeting

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will consider an emergency ordinance setting noise rules for data centers, a $2.4 million contract for a Pierce fire truck, and several other ordinances and resolutions. They will also vote on annexation, a fiber franchise, property liens, and various contracts and purchases.

• Ordinance 31: emergency noise attenuation rules for data centers
• Resolution 82: $2,400,000 Pierce Ascendant mid-mount aerial platform apparatus
• Ordinance 36: annexation of Thomas Property Tract 1
• Ordinance 37: non-exclusive franchise for HyperFiber of Arkansas
• Resolution 78: $174,278.13 backhoe loader from J.A. Riggs Tractor Company

City Meeting Calendar

The commission approved the final plat for Zion Heights as requested by property owner Amanda Tarver and Hope Consulting. The Streets/Drainage Department confirmed one detention area is sufficient for runoff, and a second area will be used as greenspace.

• Approved Zion Heights Final Plat (6-0)

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Community Services Committee will discuss proposed liens for nuisance abatement, a franchise agreement with HyperFiber, and a proposed annexation ordinance for the Thomas Property. They will also consider a nomination for the Planning Commission and review plans for town hall meetings.

• Liens for demolition at 413 Hill St, 921 Banner St, 708 Burton St, 313 E. North St; clean-up at 703 Pearl St
• Proposed franchise agreement with HyperFiber for fiber optic service
• Proposed annexation ordinance for Thomas Property, Tract 1 (petition by 100% property owners)
• Nomination of Brett Chumley for Planning Commission
• Planning Commission town hall meetings scheduled by ward (Aug 3–Sep 19)

The committee approved the nomination of Bret Chumley to the Planning Commission. Members also voted to move forward with a broadband franchise agreement with Hyperfiber and the annexation of 101.5 acres of the Thomas property.

• Approved June 13th minutes
• Moved to council via 5 separate resolutions to approve liens for 413 Hill Street ($2,925), 921 Banner ($4,750), 708 Burton ($5,250), 313 E. North Street ($5,236.50), and 703 Pearl Street ($7,950)
• Approved motion to move forward with Hyperfiber broadband franchise agreement
• Approved motion to pursue annexation of 101.5 acres of the Thomas property
• Approved nomination of Bret Chumley to the Planning Commission

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Streets and Stormwater Committee will consider accepting streets and utilities in Salt Creek Estates, approve low bids for a backhoe and a storm sewer rehab project, and discuss a resolution about stabilization methods for Zion Heights. They will also get an update on asphalt overlays in Benton.

• Acceptance of Salt Creek Estates Streets & Utilities (Ordinance)
• Low bid for backhoe (Resolution)
• Low bid for Storm Sewer Rehab Project (Resolution)
• Resolution to rectify misunderstanding of method of stabilization for Zion Heights
• Update on Benton asphalt overlays

The Streets/Drainage Committee approved several items to be brought before the City Council, including the acceptance of Salt Creek Estates streets and a bid for a new backhoe. The committee also approved a storm sewer rehabilitation project between Lynnwood and Cedarhurst.

• Approved acceptance of Salt Creek Estates streets and utilities for Council review
• Approved $174,278.13 low bid from J A Riggs Tractor company for a street department backhoe
• Approved low bid for storm sewer rehabilitation project between Lynnwood and Cedarhurst
• Approved June 13th meeting minutes

City Council Meetings

The Personnel, Health & Safety Committee is meeting to discuss an update to the employee handbook. The agenda includes establishing a quorum, recognizing attendees, and other business, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Handbook update discussion

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee is meeting to review May financials for the city and Benton Utilities, consider accepting police grants, approve police vehicle purchases and surplus requests, and discuss a new City Hall re-roof contract and District Court automation purchase, both with budget amendments.

• Benton Utilities May financials presented by Jimmy Garrett
• Police grant acceptance requests: Edward Byrne and AACP
• Police request to purchase 2024 vehicles
• New City Hall re-roof contract and budget amendment
• District Court Automation purchase request and budget amendment

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, receive departmental reports, and discuss old and new business. Key items include a bid approval for raw water flow meters and a discussion on releasing utility infrastructure. The meeting includes routine updates on safety, financials, and the 2022 audit.

• Bid approval for raw water flow meters
• Release of utility infrastructure discussion
• May financials report
• 2022 audit report
• Investment discussion

The Utility Commissioners approved expenditures for water flow meters and authorized the transfer of utility infrastructure maintenance to a private mobile home park owner. The board also approved the May financials, the 2022 Audit, and a treasury bill reinvestment plan.

• Approved $162,004.52 bid for raw water flow meters (3-0)
• Approved transfer of utility infrastructure maintenance to mobile home park owner Mr. West (3-0)
• Approved May financials (3-0)
• Approved 2022 Audit (3-0)
• Approved reinvestment of matured treasury bills (3-0)
• Approved opening the Commissioner position for another 60 days (3-0)
• Approved June 5th and June 28th meeting minutes (3-0)

Planning Commission Meetings

The commission approved the minutes from June 6 and June 14 meetings. Two requests—a gazebo variance for 6710 Kensington Drive and a final plat for Zion Heights—were tabled for future consideration. Staff announced a schedule of ward-based town hall meetings regarding zoning.

• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes with amendment
• Approved June 14, 2023 special meeting minutes
• Tabled variance for gazebo at 6710 Kensington Drive until August 2023
• Tabled Zion Heights Final Plat (7-0)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, including votes on funding for the Juneteenth Celebration and Amplify, first readings for several other funding requests, and reports on the Benton Event Center and Exit 114 property development.

• Vote on Juneteenth Celebration funding (2nd reading)
• Vote on Amplify funding (2nd reading)
• First reading for Saline County Art League funding
• First reading for Saline County Fair & Rodeo funding
• First reading for Old Fashioned Day funding

City Events

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved a Final Plat for a 4-lot subdivision called Stuart Meadows. The property is located outside Benton City Limits with no intention to annex.

• Approved Final Plat for Stuart Meadows 4-lot subdivision (5-0)

City Meeting Calendar

The Community Services Committee will discuss and review several items, including a resolution permitting fireworks for Independence Day, proposed condemnations and liens on specific properties, and a contract for soil testing. They will also approve the minutes from the previous meeting and hear reminders about upcoming Planning Commission town hall meetings.

• Proposed resolution permitting fireworks for 2023 Independence Day celebrations
• Condemnation of 214 Pine Circle
• Liens for demolition at 1606 and 1608 Gum Street
• Lien for clean-up at 120 Conrad Street
• Proposed contract with CSMS Management, LLC for soil testing services

The council approved an updated franchise agreement and ordinance for Pafford Medical Services. Two appointments to the Civil Service Commission were confirmed. Two proposed ordinances regarding annexation and emergency expenditures were tabled.

• Approved franchise agreement and ordinance for Pafford Medical Services
• Approved appointment of Terrell Henson to the Civil Service Commission
• Approved appointment of Judy Pridgen to the Civil Service Commission
• Tabled proposed annexation ordinance
• Tabled proposed ordinance authorizing expenditures during a declared emergency or disaster

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including an outdoor recreation grant, a resolution for the Saline River Greenway Phase 2, and a mountain bike park. The agenda includes routine items like approval of minutes and attendee recognition.

• Outdoor Recreation Grant
• Saline River Greenway Phase 2 Resolution
• Mountain Bike Park

The Parks Committee approved moving forward with negotiations for a mountain bike park and a resolution for the Saline River Greenway Phase 2. The committee also approved applying for an outdoor recreation grant for a bike park playground.

• Approved May 9th, 2023 minutes
• Approved application for outdoor recreation grant for bike park playground
• Approved Saline River Greenway Phase 2 Resolution for $200,000 grant
• Approved moving forward with negotiations for Mountain Bike Park (not to exceed $2 million)

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council's Personnel, Health & Safety Committee is meeting to discuss a requested increase to the old fire pension benefit, an update to the employee handbook, and a proposal to move non-uniform retirement to APERS. The meeting is a discussion session, with no final votes scheduled.

• Old Fire Pension benefit increase request
• Handbook update discussion
• Non-uniform retirement discussion to move to APERS
• Fire & Police applications update
• Non-uniform applications update

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council's Commissions Committee will hear updates from Public Utilities, A&P, and Planning & Zoning. They will discuss an ordinance to waive competitive bidding for a stainless-steel surge bin for the Fention Bio Solids dryer, declared an emergency, and consider a conditional use for a school and a rezone for a Circle K.

• Ordinance waiving competitive bidding for stainless-steel surge bin for Fention Bio Solids dryer, declaring emergency
• Conditional use for school at 2618 Old Conge Rod
• Rezone from TC2 to C2 at 1229 W. South St. (Circle K)

The committee met as an information-gathering body to review upcoming items for the city council. No formal decisions or votes were taken during the meeting.

City Events

The Benton Planning Commission will consider a variance request for a gazebo at 6710 Kensington Drive and a final plat for the Zion Heights subdivision. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from prior meetings and discussion of town hall meetings.

• Variance for gazebo at 6710 Kensington Drive
• Final plat for Zion Heights subdivision
• Approval of minutes from June 6 and June 14 meetings

The Board of Adjustments and Planning Commission approved a lot size variance, a conditional use permit for a cosmetology school, and a zoning change for a gas station. A request for a sign height variance and a residential rezone for a subdivision were not approved.

• Approved lot size variance for 111 E. Pine Street (5-0)
• Denied sign height variance for 1718 Highway 5 (4-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for cosmetology school at 2618 Old Congo Road (4-0)
• Approved rezone from TC2 to C2 for 1229 W. South Street (5-0)
• Denied rezone from R2 to R3 for 711 Shenandoah Road (failed for lack of motion)

City Meeting Calendar

The Utility Commissioners approved the April financial reports and the minutes from the April 17th meeting. The board also scheduled interviews for a commission opening and discussed billing issues with Cycle 1 bills.

• Approved April 17th minutes (3-0)
• Approved April financials (3-0)
• Approved transfer of fees from Highway 5 reimbursement fund to General Fund
• Scheduled interviews for commission opening for Thursday at 5 p.m.

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss several agenda items, including a contract with AR Wolves, a review of Ordinance 42 of 2003, and a presentation from EAST Lab. The committee will also consider approval of minutes from a prior meeting. No decisions are guaranteed; items may be discussed or acted upon.

• AR Wolves contract review
• Ordinance 42 of 2003 discussion
• EAST Lab presentation
• Approval of minutes

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Streets and Stormwater Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including Salt Creek Estates, an ordinance for Auburn Hills Phase 3 streets and utilities, and a resolution for the low bid on Street Department roof repair. The committee will also consider approval of minutes and other business.

• Salt Creek Estates discussion
• Auburn Hills Ph 3 Streets and Utilities (Ordinance)
• Low bid for Street Dept roof repair (Resolution)
• Approval of minutes

The committee approved a state-aided street overlay project and three low-bid contracts for equipment and drainage work. The decisions include funding for street paving and the purchase of a slope mower and leaf vacuums.

• Approved State Aid City Street Program resolution for Border, Border Circle, Montclair, and Princeton Streets ($406,975.00 total; $300,000.00 state funded)
• Approved low bid from Jerry Pate Company for a slope mower ($50,138.47)
• Approved low bid from Cleve Addie for leaf vacuums
• Approved low bid from Gene Summers Construction for River/Richards Drainage Project ($533,337.00)
• Approved previous meeting minutes

City Meeting Calendar

The Community Services Committee will discuss and review several proposed ordinances, including a franchise agreement with Pafford Medical Services, appointments to the Civil Service Commission, a tentative annexation of the Thomas Property (Tract 1), and a tentative ordinance authorizing expenditures during declared emergencies. The committee will also approve minutes from the March 14th meeting and hear an announcement about Planning Commission town hall meetings on zoning.

• Discussion/review of proposed ordinance and franchise agreement with Pafford Medical Services
• Discussion/review of ordinances to ratify appointments to the Civil Service Commission (Terrell Henson, Judy Pridgen)
• Discussion/review of tentative annexation ordinance for Thomas Property (Tract 1)
• Discussion/review of tentative ordinance authorizing expenditures during declared emergencies or disasters
• Announcement of Planning Commission town hall meetings on zoning by ward (dates from Aug 3 to Sep 19)

The council approved a one-year moratorium on self-storage projects to determine growth parameters and location standards. The body also approved the condemnation of two properties and moved forward with a golf cart usage ordinance.

• Approved condemnation of 2419 Edison and 3001 Primrose Drive
• Approved one-year moratorium on self-storage projects
• Approved motion to put forth ordinance regarding golf cart use on city streets
• Approved February 14th minutes

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Finance Committee is meeting to review March financials for Benton Utilities and the city, and to consider several budget amendments, including a police stipend request, a wage structure change, land purchase for a future fire station, vehicle purchases, and grant acceptance. They will also discuss applying for a grant for EV charging stations.

• Benton Utilities March financials review
• Police Law Enforcement Stipend request
• Budget Amendment for Wage Structure change
• Budget Amendment to Purchase land for Future Fire Station #7
• Budget Amendment to Purchase Vehicles through State bid

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council's Personnel, Health & Safety Committee is meeting to discuss an updated wage structure with pay range increases for police and fire personnel. The committee will also consider a police request to award an officer a badge and weapon. The meeting is scheduled for May 8, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.

• Updated wage structure with police and fire range increases
• Police request to award officer badge and weapon

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes and financial reports. The main action item is a second reading and vote on funding for the Saline County Comic Expo. The commission will also receive reports on the Benton Event Center and the development of the Exit 114 property.

• Vote on funding for Saline County Comic Expo (2nd reading)
• Financial reports: Profit and Loss, Bank Balances and Collections
• Delinquency report
• Report on Benton Event Center
• Report on Exit 114 property development

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission is holding its regular meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including hiring Fisher & Arnold for engineering of a new SCADA system, a Trojan UV system upgrade, and Chenault Reservoir levee repair. The commission will also review February/March financials and the 2023 budget, and may enter executive session for personnel matters.

• Hiring of Fisher & Arnold for engineering of new SCADA system
• Trojan UV System Upgrade
• Chenault Reservoir Levee Repair
• February/March Financials review
• 2023 Budget review

The Commission approved January financial reports showing expenditures exceeding revenues by $771,594.33. Members authorized the General Manager and City Attorney to update ordinances regarding shared meters and out-of-city water multipliers.

• Approved February 21st minutes (2-0)
• Approved January financials (2-0)
• Authorized General Manager and City Attorney to update Ordinance 29 of 2022 regarding shared meter language and service charges (3-0)
• Authorized General Manager to work with City Attorney to amend Ordinance 68 of 2005 to include water outside city limits at the 1.75 multiplier (3-0)
• Approved acting in accordance with the Mayor to create a public authority rate for city/utility buildings (3-0)

City Council Meetings

The Benton Commissions Committee is meeting to receive updates from the Public Utilities Commission, Advertising and Promotion, and Planning and Zoning. The main business is a set of Planning and Zoning items, including an annexation and several rezones, which the committee will discuss.

• Spencer Crossing Annexation
• 1618 Highway 5 Conditional Use
• 110 W. Hazel Rezone
• 713 Oakwood Drive Rezone
• 3502 Boone Road Rezone and I-30 Parcels Rezone

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Streets and Drainage Committee is meeting to approve minutes and discuss Salt Creek Estates. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Salt Creek Estates

The committee approved a state-aided street overlay project and accepted low bids for a drainage project, a slope mower, and leaf vacuums.

• Approved State Aid City Street Program overlay for Border Street, Border Circle, Montclair Street, and Princeton Street for $406,975.00 (motion carried)
• Accepted low bid from Jerry Pate Company for a slope mower in the amount of $50,138.47 (motion carried)
• Approved low bid for leaf vacuums from Cleve Addie (motion carried)
• Accepted low bid from Gene Summers Construction for the River/Richards Drainage Project in the amount of $533,337.00 (motion carried)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion carried)

City Meeting Calendar

The Parks Committee approved the purchase of two properties to expand city parkland and connectivity. One acquisition adds land to the Mountain Bike Park, while the other aims to connect Sunset Lake and the Saline River.

• Approved purchase of 3.5 acres north of Mountain Bike Park for $20,000 plus closing costs
• Approved purchase of 8.17 acres from Jim Tucker for $1.6 million
• Approved November 15, 2022, meeting minutes
• Tabled Arkansas CommuniTree Partnership

Animal Control

The Benton Animal Control Committee is meeting to establish a quorum, recognize attendees, and review minutes from the February 13, 2023 meeting. The main discussion item is an update on Animal Control Officer (ACO) training. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of minutes from February 13, 2023 meeting
• Update and discussion on ACO training

The committee discussed the possibility of establishing a Trap Neuter Release Program and received an update on the new Animal Control Shelter. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Planning Commission Meetings

The Benton Planning Commission is meeting to consider multiple zoning requests, variances, and site plans, including rezones for properties on Hazel Street, Oakwood Drive, Boone Road, I-30 parcels, and Fox Trail. The board will also discuss a proposed annexation and a zoning ordinance change regarding rezones.

• Variance requests at 1921 Highway 5 (dumpster, landscaping), 1618 Highway 5 (dumpster, sidewalk width), and 823 Military Rd (landscaping)
• Site plans for Tire Engineers at 823 Military Rd and a coffee shop at 1921 Highway 5
• Rezone requests: 110 W. Hazel Street (R2 to LI), 713 Oakwood Drive (R2 to R5), 3502 Boone Rd (LI to C3), I-30 parcels (R2 to C3), 2307 S. Fox Trail (R2 to C3)
• Preliminary plat for Mary Kay/River Street
• Annexation of Spencer's Crossing and zoning ordinance change regarding rezones

Planning Commission Meetings

This is a special meeting of the Benton Planning Commission. The agenda includes a site plan review for a mini storage facility at 6310 W. Jackman Trail, located in the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). No other substantive items are listed.

• 6310 W. Jackman Trail – Mini Storage Site Plan [ETJ]

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including project updates, the Arkansas CommuniTree Partnership, and the annual report. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Project Update
• Arkansas CommuniTree Partnership
• Annual Report