David Humphries

The council meeting included a financial report indicating significant increases in sales tax and occupational license revenue. The council considered adopting an ordinance to modify the code regarding operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Zoning matters were discussed, including a variance for properties on Hickory Street to allow for rental purposes with certain restrictions on mobile home age. The council also discussed expanding the mobile home overlay district and introduced ordinances related to leasing airplane storage space and fixed base operators at the Pine Municipal Airport. Additional ordinances were introduced concerning parking restrictions for dual axle trailers and reckless driving under the influence of alcohol. The council approved the appointment of Trey Crump to the England Economic and Industrial Development District Board of Commissioners and ratified the acceptance of a donation of immovable property for a green space. They also authorized the mayor to execute an agreement with the Louisiana Department of Transportation Development for airport improvements and approved declaring surplus items for disposal. Additionally, they reappointed Christa Miller and confirmed the reappointment of Bradley Perkins to the Pinewood Downtown Development District Board. Finally, a motion was made to add an item regarding the annexation of property on Military Highway to the agenda.

The zoning commission convened to discuss a petition for annexation and the zoning of 0.49 acres of property located at 2735 Donnie Ferry Road, belonging to Kevin and Jerry Samson, to be zoned for R1. The discussion involved the cost for the city to pull across the road for connection, and the motion to accept the move to R1 was approved. Also mentioned was a neighbor who may also want to join in the annexation process.

The zoning commission meeting addressed a petition for annexation of a 0.49 acre tract of land on Donny Hue Ferry Road. The discussion involved the property owner's failing sewer system and the options for connecting to the city sewer, including the potential costs of installing a grinder pump. The commission considered the benefits of annexation, such as reduced water rates and city services. The decision on the petition was tabled to allow the petitioner time to research the costs and solutions related to sewer service.

The meeting focused on the amended budget, with discussions on increased sales tax and property tax revenue, and overall growth in the city. Departments worked to reduce expenses, and there was a significant increase in the non-departmental line. The council also discussed the 2024 budget, noting a modest increase due to a rise in healthcare costs. Street-wide improvements, including waterline eliminations and sewer and water line upgrades, were highlighted. Additionally, a 2% across-the-board pay increase for city employees was mentioned.

The meeting included an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by a roll call. Discussions and actions included amending the budget for the city of Pineville for fiscal years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, addressing prosecutor fees and city court juvenile fees, and adjusting city hall administration expenses to account for election costs. The council also discussed franchise agreements with Lexus and AT&T and reviewed the separation of city council expenditures as per the legislative auditor's advice. The council acknowledged the hard work of the department heads and administration in maintaining the budget and expressed a desire for more capital dollars toward roads.