City of Carlisle

The council discussed the purchase of two 10-horsepower aeration units for the city's sewer system to meet EPA standards, which was authorized via emergency resolution. Updates were provided on the ongoing construction of a new airport terminal, which is being funded by the FAA, and the eventual sale of the mobile home currently used as a terminal. The Parks and Recreation department reported on the conclusion of the baseball and softball season, discussed plans for potential park improvements, including removing a small ballfield to expand parking, and shared interest in reintroducing tackle football and soccer for the upcoming fall season. Efforts to mitigate trash issues caused by raccoons at city parks were also reviewed. Additionally, the council discussed the pursuit of a non-matching $100,000 Fun Park Grant from the Arkansas Department of Parks and Recreation, noting that public hearings and community involvement through the tracking of volunteer hours are critical components of the grant application process.

The regular meeting included old business concerning committee revenue from the Civic Center. New business involved awarding the bid for Civic Center roof repairs to Harness Roofing. The council voted to keep the city millage rate at .50 mills for 2025 taxes collected in 2026. The Parks and Recreation segment involved the acceptance of a Parks Grant Bid from Austin Construction Group, approving a reduced cost of $3000, resulting in a final contract price of $176,781.00. The Water/Sewer/Streets department reported commencing work on painting fire hydrants. The Police Chief reported the resignation of a new hire due to medical issues. The City Treasurer noted that the 2024 Legislative audit was under review and that Landmark CPAs were working on the 2024 Water and Sewer audit. Four ordinances concerning location tracking devices, fire department fee collection, website development allocation, and council members applying for grants were all tabled after first reading.

The regular meeting involved several key actions. In Old Business, the Council conducted three readings, including suspension of rules and passage with an emergency clause, for Proposed City Ordinance 347 after discussion regarding hardship and fee waiver possibilities. In New Business, the November financials and treasurer's report were approved. Under Parks & Recreation, an upgrade of $7,880 for concession stand electrical equipment was discussed for payment from a reserve fund. The Mosquito & Sanitation department announced schedule changes for trash pickup due to holidays. The Water Department Superintendent confirmed a well repair and reported the need to hire a part-time clerk following a resignation. The Police Chief reported taking delivery of two new police cars. The Fire Chief confirmed repairs to Trucks 1 and 3. Due to issues with the proposed 2026 budget, the Council passed a resolution extending the 2025 budget through January 2026. Personnel matters discussed included that no pay raises would occur until the 2026 budget passed, and appointments for an administrative assistant/economic development coordinator and a reclassification of a billing clerk.

The special meeting of the Council focused on several key administrative actions. The Council approved the hiring of Landmark CPAs to conduct the 2024 Water and Sewer Audit. Furthermore, the Council authorized the hiring of Mr. Austin Hayes as a part-time Park Director with an annual salary of $25,000. Finally, signature authority on the city's bank accounts was approved for Mayor Jon Plafcan, City Clerk Sissy Ingle, and Council Members Anne Anderson and Mary Eddleman.

The council addressed several key areas, including airport updates, parks and recreation activities, mosquito and sanitation plans, and water/sewer/streets maintenance. The council approved ORDINANCE 343 fixing sewer rates and ORDINANCE 344 fixing water rates. The council discussed state aid for 2026, focusing on culverts and drainage. The Police Chief shared his monthly report, and the Fire Chief reported on tanker repairs. A proposed sales tax for emergency services was discussed but tabled. The council approved RESOLUTION 362 for electronic banking and RESOLUTION 363 regarding alcohol service in the Carlisle Civic Center. The council considered a request for an alcohol permit for The Shed.