City Council
Regular MeetingJacksonville, AR · May 1, 2025
Minutes
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY HALL - #1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE
The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular
session on May 1, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray
delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the
“Pledge of Allegiance.”
ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty,
Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL CALL
declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member McCleary
arrived at approximately 6:05 p.m. and left at approximately 6:35 p.m. Council
Member Dietz was absent.
Others present for the meeting were: Fire Chief Alan Laughy, Human Resource
Director Charlette Nelson, Finance Director Laura Collie, Parks and
Recreation Director Kevin House, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, CDBG
Director Michelle Spencer, Communications Director Emily Sundermeier, IT
Director Brian Harvey, Officer Darian Farmer, Reginald Ford, Tristan Ambeau,
Morgan Allen, Kathy Perez, Michelle Elmore, and Chris Erkel.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular
City Council meeting of April 17, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the
next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Twitty moved, seconded
by Council Member McCoy that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting
of March 20, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA:
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
SANITATION DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION:
PLANNING COMMISSION: a. ORDINANCE 1782 (#11-2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
(PARCEL LOCATED AT 3121 AND 3125 NORTH FIRST STREET); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS.
213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS;
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place
Ordinance 1782 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon
City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1782.
Council Member McCoy shared a concern regarding the use of the emergency
clause for rezonings when its purpose is for the preservation of the public
peace, health, and safety, confirmed by the Arkansas Municipal League.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
A brief discussion ensued that mentioned possible development delays if the
emergency clause was not added to rezonings.
Council Member McCoy stated Council Member Dietz confirmed these were not
emergencies, therefore, warranting the removal of these clauses.
City Engineer Adam Whitlow explained that C-2 is Commercial and R-3 is Multi-
Family Residential. He related these parcels are surrounded by R-3 and was
unsure of why it was ever zoned C-2.
Citizen Richelle Brittain confirmed she sold 3121 North First Street to this
developer last year. She noted it always had a house on it and the developer
shared his plans to tear down the house to expand his apartment complex he
owns next door.
Council Member McCoy moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to AMEND
Ordinance 1782 to REMOVE THE EMERGENCY CLAUSE. ROLL CALL: Council Member
McCleary, McCoy, and Moss voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member Ruple,
Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voting NAY.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE
Ordinance 1782 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1782 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy,
Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE
Ordinance 1782 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1782 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary,
McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND
ADOPT Ordinance 1782 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE.
MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the
EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
Ray, LaBron, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council
Member McCleary, McCoy, and Moss voting NAY.
ORDINANCE 1782 (#11-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 1ST DAY OF MAY, 2025.
b. ORDINANCE 1783 (#12-2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
(PARCEL LOCATED AT DUPREE-STONE ADDN); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238
AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place Ordinance
1783 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon
City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1783.
Engineer Whitlow stated a Planned Unit Development (PUD) is unique and not
done often in Jacksonville. He explained it allows the applicant to submit a
site plan, along with the rezone application, that demonstrates their unique
design with some non-conforming conditions. He related there were no calls
received regarding the request and it was properly advertised before the
Planning Commission meeting.
Council Member McCoy reiterated her concern with having the emergency clause
attached.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE
Ordinance 1783 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1783 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy,
Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE
Ordinance 1783 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1783 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary,
McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND
ADOPT Ordinance 1783 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE.
MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the
EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY.
ORDINANCE 1783 (#12-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 1ST DAY OF MAY, 2025.
c. ORDINANCE 1784 (#13-2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
(PARCEL LOCATED AT 7430 T.P. WHITE DRIVE); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND
238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to place
Ordinance 1784 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary,
McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1784.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Engineer Whitlow brought up that the main difference in these zones is that
C-4 allows open display.
Council Member McCoy reiterated her concern with having the emergency clause
attached.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE
Ordinance 1784 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1784 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary, McCoy,
Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE
Ordinance 1784 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1784 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary,
McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE AND
ADOPT Ordinance 1784 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE.
MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron that the
EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
McCleary, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED with Council Member McCoy voting NAY.
ORDINANCE 1784 (#13-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 1ST DAY OF MAY, 2025.
d. ORDINANCE 1785 (#14-2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
(PARCEL LOCATED AT 420 WEST HICKORY); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND
THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place
Ordinance 1785 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary,
McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1785.
At approximately 6:35 p.m., Council Member McCleary excused himself from the
meeting early to attend another scheduled commitment.
Engineer Whitlow believes this property was zoned R-0 with a conditional use.
He explained there was once a residence on one side and a salon on the other.
He confirmed there were no calls to Public Works regarding this request.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE
Ordinance 1785 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1785 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron,
Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE
Ordinance 1785 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1785 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE AND
ADOPT Ordinance 1785 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy,
Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple that the EMERGENCY
CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, Ray, LaBron,
Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with Council Member
McCoy voting NAY.
ORDINANCE 1785 (#14-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 1ST DAY OF MAY, 2025.
COMMITTEE(S):
GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1786 (#15-2025)
AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE LOCATION OF IN-GROUND/ABOVE-GROUND SWIMMING POOLS
WITHIN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, CREATING JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL
CODE 8.05.021; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place
Ordinance 1786 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon
City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1786.
Council Member Twitty mentioned for the safety of the public, they are asking
to only put swimming pools, with proper fencing, in the backyard.
Mayor Elmore noted this is for pools deeper than 24 inches, not the shallower
kiddie pools.
Council Member McCoy brought up that this is a good example of properly
attaching an emergency clause, since it is for the preservation of the health
and safety of the public.
Mayor Elmore shared that the house where this is an issue has been cited by
Code Enforcement and has a court date in June.
Police Captain Ryan Wright confirmed the Judge can assess up to a $250.00 per
day fine. He related that citizens not in compliance would have ten days,
from when they mail a letter, to remove the pool.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Council Member Twitty told how someone setup a pool up and claimed to have a
fence coming in on a Friday, but it was never put up. She affirmed that for
safety reasons, they need to be put in backyards only.
Mayor Elmore clarified that this ordinance would not allow pools in the side
or front yard, only in a backyard.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE
Ordinance 1786 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1786 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray, LaBron,
Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE
Ordinance 1786 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1786 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to APPROVE AND
ADOPT Ordinance 1786 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy,
Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple that the EMERGENCY
CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
ORDINANCE 1786 (#15-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 1ST DAY OF MAY, 2025.
b. Update by Director of Economic Development Robert Birch
Director Birch shared an update from the most recent legislative session
highlighting SJR15-Proposed Constitutional Amendment: Economic Development
Districts. He described how SB505-Streamlined Administrative Rezoning Process
would allow rezoning requests, consistent with the City’s adopted Land Use
Plan, to be approved administratively without involving the Planning
Commission. He mentioned supporting SB307-Generating Arkansas Jobs Act of
2025 (Utility Infrastructure for Economic Development), which changed when
rate increases take effect after utility companies do a large investment
energy project. He recalled that Jacksonville lost Amazon’s interest in
building here because we could not give them an answer on being able to
provide enough power. He confirmed the City has new local restaurants coming
soon.
APPOINTMENTS:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
NEW BUSINESS:
ANNOUNCEMENTS: City Council meeting schedule adjustments for May & June
Mayor Elmore announced since Jacksonville High School’s graduation is on May
15th, the City Council meeting will be rescheduled to May 22nd. He confirmed
the meeting of June 19th will be canceled due to the Juneteenth holiday and
the Arkansas Municipal League Summer Conference.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 1, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Parks & Rec Events
This item was for informational purposes only and not discussed.
Community Health Fair
Council Member McCoy announced that the NAACP will be hosting a Community
Health Fair on Saturday, May 17th at 424 Church Street.
Chamber of Commerce
Council Member Kinman thanked the Chamber of Commerce Leadership Academy
Class III for being in attendance tonight.
Jacksonville High School
Council Member Mimms related the Senior Walk and Parade will be on May 13th.
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at
approximately 7:00 p.m. MOTION CARRIED.
Respectfully,
________________________ _________________________
Susan L. Davitt MAYOR JEFF ELMORE
City Clerk-Treasurer
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Agenda
City Council of Jacksonville, Arkansas
AGENDA
Regular City Council Meeting
May 1, 2025 6:00 p.m.
1. OPENING PRAYER: PAGES
2. ROLL CALL:
3. PRESENTATION OF Regular City Council Meeting
MINUTES: April 17, 2025 1-5
4. APPROVALS AND/OR Regular City Council Meeting
CORRECTION OF MINUTES: March 20, 2025
5. CONSENT AGENDA:
6. WATER DEPARTMENT:
7. WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
8. FIRE DEPARTMENT:
9. POLICE DEPARTMENT:
10. STREET DEPARTMENT:
11. SANITATION DEPARTMENT:
12. PARKS & REC. DEPARTMENT:
13. PLANNING COMMISSION: a. ORDINANCE 1782 (#11-2025)
Reclassifying 3121 & 3125 North
First Street from C-2 to R-3
(Council Member Dietz) 6-8
b. ORDINANCE 1783 (#12-2025)
Reclassifying parcel located at Dupree-
Stone Addition from C-2 to PUD
(Council Member Dietz) 9-11
c. ORDINANCE 1784 (#13-2025)
Reclassifying 7430 T.P.
White Drive from C-3 to C-4
(Council Member Dietz) 12-14
d. ORDINANCE 1785 (#14-2025)
Reclassifying 420 West Hickory
Street from R-0 to R-2
(Council Member Dietz) 15-17
CITY COUNCIL A G E N D A continued:
May 1, 2025
14. COMMITTEE(S):
15. GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1786 (#15-2025)
Regulating location of in-ground/
above-ground swimming pools
(Council Member Twitty) 18-19
b. Update by Director of Economic
Development Robert Birch
(Mayor Elmore)
16. APPOINTMENTS:
17. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
18. NEW BUSINESS:
ANNOUNCEMENTS: a. City Council meeting schedule
adjustments for May & June
b. Parks & Rec Events 20
ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 6:38 P.M.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY HALL - #1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE
The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in a regular
session on April 17, 2025 at their regular meeting place. Council Member Ray
delivered the invocation and Mayor Elmore led a standing audience in the
“Pledge of Allegiance.”
ROLL CALL: City Council Members: Dietz, Ruple, McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron,
Moss, Twitty, and Kinman answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered ROLL
CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9) ABSENT ONE (1). Council Member Mimms
was absent.
Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief
Alan Laughy, Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez, CDBG Director Michelle
Spencer, Wastewater General Manager Thea Hughes, IT Director Brian Harvey,
Officer Ernesto Ortiz, Selina Foltz, Wyatt Elmore, and John Ferrell.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular
City Council meeting of March 20, 2025 for approval and/or correction at the
next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by
Council Member Twitty that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of
March 6, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty
to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/APRIL
PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED
Building Permits 2 Building 3
Business License Electrical 5
Plumbing 2
HVACR 4
FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/MARCH
Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 725,000.00
Savings total for the month: $ 710,500.00
POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/MARCH
Topic 2025 2024 2025 2024
Total Complaint Calls 3068 2730
Homicide Reported 1 0 Theft Reported 52 65
Homicide Cleared 2 0 Theft Cleared 31 37
Rape/Sex Assault Reported 4 4 Vehicle Theft Reported 6 18
Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 2 2 Vehicle Theft Cleared 4 6
Robbery Reported 4 4 Felony Cases Reported 123 137
Robbery Cleared 2 0 Felony Cases Closed 69 142
Felony Assaults Reported 16 17 Misd Cases Reported 228 248
Felony Assaults Cleared 5 12 Misd Cases Closed 157 184
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 6:38 P.M.
Burglary Reported 6 13
Burglary Cleared 0 6
CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/MARCH
Assigned Calls 46 Demolition by City 0
Self-Initiated Calls 166 Demolition by Owner 1
Follow Up Inspections 306 Parking Violations 0
Complied after Notice 94 Garbage Cans Tagged 3
Three Day Notice 20 Basketball Goals 1
Seven Day Letter 232 Structures Inspected 518
Citation Letters Mailed 37 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0
Citations Issued 2 Red Tags Issued 0
Vehicles Tagged 27 Search Warrants 0
Vehicles Towed 3 Grass Mowed 0
Unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed 4
Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts 0
Structures Rehabbed 0
ANIMAL SERVICES REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/MARCH
ADOPTION FEES $ 1,705.00
SPAY/NEUTER FOR ADOPTED DOGS 1,705.00
Paid by the City of Jacksonville 1,705.00
Best Friends Animal Rescue Grant -
Paid for by Best Friends -
FINES 2,027.45
CONTRIBUTIONS 714.69
TOTAL $ 2,742.14
FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/MARCH
Total Revenues Total Expenditures
General Fund $ 823,923 $ 5,704,399
Street Fund $ 421,471 $ 369,967
Sanitation Services Fund $ 401,891 $ 534,372
AG&F Shooting Sports Complex $ 49,054 $ 93,527
EMS Fund $ 581,876 $ 661,900
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
SANITATION DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION: VIDEO PRESENTATION by Athletics Manager Joe Stoute and
Morgan Allen
Parks & Rec Athletics Manager Joe Stoute related that employee Morgan Allen
is a huge part of what they do with the USSSA Autism Awareness Tournament,
which is meant to highlight the Pathfinder organization. He listed a few
local sponsors as Jacksonville A & P Commission, First Arkansas Bank and
Trust, Unity Health, and RightFiber, but also other non-local, such as Fence
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 6:38 P.M.
Brokers, Sun Coast, and Competitive Edge. He related it is an adult slowpitch
softball event that included professional players who participated with 31
Pathfinder clients. He presented a map showing where participants traveled
from that included at least 16 different states and Canada. He noted that 5
bat companies, 51 professional players, and 91 total teams were in attendance
and they raised $6,000.00 for Pathfinder’s sports booster club, which is
being used for their travel to the Special Olympics. He mentioned having a
huge media presence and shared pictures and information about the tournament.
He thanked Parks & Rec for their involvement and hard work with the
tournament and mentioned that it won the 2024 USSSA Event of the Year for the
Southwest Region.
Cindy Roach with Pathfinder recalled having 14 of their athletes sign up to
play the tournament last year, but had 31 this year since they were very
excited to participate in it. She brought up that the present athlete, Stone,
participated both years and is already looking forward to next year. She
pointed out that the event captures the sense of community that Pathfinder
feels with Jacksonville. She thanked Parks & Rec, Manager Stoute, and Mrs.
Allen for making it happen, noting they are extremely grateful to be a part
of this community that fosters inclusion.
Mrs. Allen described the excitement of a Pathfinder player as she made it to
home plate during the game and how emotional it was. She emphasized that is
what this is all about; it is not just about the athletes or players, but
also about the families and the people who live it every day. She thanked
those who attended and invited those who did not to attend next year.
Manager Stoute shared videos of the tournament, noting one has had 600,000
views on social media. He stressed that this tournament would not have been
possible without the Parks & Rec Department.
Ms. Roach told how Parks & Rec employees Madison Davis and Diane Novotny
helped train Pathfinder’s Special Olympics swim team when their coach passed
away unexpectedly. She thanked Parks & Rec again for always supporting and
being there for them.
PLANNING COMMISSION:
COMMITTEE(S):
GENERAL: a. ORDINANCE 1781 (#10-2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
(PARCEL LOCATED AT 1808 NORTH BAILEY); AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238
AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member Twitty stated this is to help our Code Enforcement Officers
since several complaints have come in about parking large equipment in front
yards and streets, which is not safe for our first responders. She explained
this would allow one vehicle beside the driveway, side yard, or backyard and
nothing large in the road or in the front yard anymore.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 6:38 P.M.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to place
Ordinance 1781 on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple,
McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of Ordinance 1781.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to APPROVE
Ordinance 1781 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1781 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple, McCleary,
McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE
Ordinance 1781 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1781 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple,
McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED.
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member LaBron to APPROVE AND
ADOPT Ordinance 1781 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple,
McCleary, McCoy, Ray, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, and Kinman voted AYE. MOTION
CARRIED.
ORDINANCE 1781 (#10-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 17TH DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
City Attorney Friedman clarified standard passenger vehicles can still be
parked in driveway or parallel to one side of it, only trailers and campers
can be parked in the driveway, and any equipment has to be behind the
exterior face.
b. March 2025 Financials presented by Finance Director Laura Collie
Council Member McCoy requested an overview of the report, noting there were
questions regarding deficits.
Finance Director Laura Collie explained the monthly financials are prepared
for Council to stay apprised of the money coming in versus what was budgeted
for. She listed the funds as General, Street, Sanitation, EMS, and the
Shooting Range. She pointed out that the first sheet of each fund shows the
revenues versus the expenditures. She related that the reason for the deficit
is because the tax money that is received in January and February is for
November and December, so the money is recorded in 2024, not 2025. She
confirmed the report also shows Water and Wastewater investments, which is
technically City of Jacksonville money, but the City does not control it.
APPOINTMENTS: SEWER COMMISSION
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the
reappointment of Fred Belote for a term to expire 04/20/2030.
Council Member McCoy thanked Mr. Belote for being present.
MOTION CARRIED at this time.
4
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 6:38 P.M.
JACKSONVILLE HOUSING AUTHORITY
Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member Twitty to approve the
appointment of Shanacee Person to the unexpired term of Tanner Ruple set to
expire 03/17/2026.
Council Member McCoy explained that Ms. Person is not present due to her
attendance at her son’s event, but she is happy to have her serve.
MOTION CARRIED at this time with Council Member McCleary ABSTAINING.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
NEW BUSINESS:
ANNOUNCEMENTS: 2025 Youth Shooting Sports Tournaments
Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House announced the tournaments start
next Friday and Saturday and there will be four weeks of regionals followed
by the State tournament. He related that 6,000 children are participating and
will be in Jacksonville over the next four weeks.
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at
approximately 6:38 p.m. MOTION CARRIED.
Respectfully,
________________________ _________________________
Susan L. Davitt MAYOR JEFF ELMORE
City Clerk-Treasurer
5
5
ORDINANCE NO. 1782 (#11 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE,
ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 3121 AND 3125 NORTH FIRST STREET);
AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY
OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER
PURPOSES.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: The zone classification of the following property be and hereby is
changed as indicated below:
Legal Description:
PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE ¼) OF THE
NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW ¼) OF SECTION 17, T-3-N, R-10-W,
JACKSONVILLE, PULASKI COUNTY, ARKANSAS, MORE
PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID NE ¼ NW
¼; THENCE S02°00’W, ALONG THE EAST OF SAID NE ¼ NW ¼,
679.8 FEET; THENCE WEST, 600 FEET TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING; THENCE S01°39’32”W, 133.30 FEET; THENCE
S01°47’01”W, 98.69 FEET; THENCE S89°09’45”W, 243.3 FEET;
THENCE N01°44’23”E, 100.56 FEET; THENCE N01°36’09”E, 133.30
FEET; THENCE N89°36’14”E, 243.43 FEET TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING, CONTAINING 1.21 ACRES, MORE OR LESS
Said real property is hereby rezoned from Zoning Classification C-2 to R-3.
SECTION TWO: The map referred in Ordinance No. 213 of the City of
Jacksonville, Arkansas, as amended by Ordinance No. 238 and designated as the official Zoning and
Land Use Map, should be and hereby is amended to the extent and in the respects necessary to effect
and designate the changes provided for herein.
SECTION THREE: All Ordinances and Resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.
SECTION FOUR: It is hereby found and determined that the rezoning of the
property described herein from residential to commercial is necessary for the immediate preservation
of public peace, health, safety, and welfare. The proposed commercial development will enhance
economic opportunities, promote orderly growth, and provide essential services to the community.
Furthermore, any delay in implementing this ordinance could hinder economic development, disrupt
planned business operations, and negatively impact the general welfare of the city.
Therefore, an emergency is declared to exist, and this ordinance shall be in full force and
effect immediately upon passage and approval.
6
ORDINANCE NO. 1782 (#11 - 2025)
Page Two
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
_______________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
ATTEST:
_________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
7
8
ORDINANCE NO. 1783 (#12 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE,
ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT DUPREE-STONE ADDN); AMENDING
ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER
PURPOSES.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: The zone classification of the following property be and hereby is
changed as indicated below:
Legal Description:
PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 30, T-3-N, R-
10-W, CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, PULASKI COUNTY, ARKANSAS,
BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE
NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 30, T-3-N, R-10-W; THENCE
EAST 30.0 FEET TO THE EAST RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE OF SOUTH
JAMES STREET; THENCE N02°11'00"E ALONG SAID EAST RIGHT-
OF-WAY LINE, 775.20 FEET; THENCE LEAVING SAID RIGHT-OF-
WAY S80°57'59"E, 297.90 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING;
THENCE N02°11'00"E, 249.94 FEET; THENCE S86°12'02"E, 201.65
FEET TO THE WEST RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE OF DUPREE DRIVE;
THENCE S03°48'00"W ALONG SAID WEST RIGHT-OF-WAY OF
DUPREE DRIVE, 300.00 FEET TO THE NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY OF
STONE STREET; THENCE LEAVING SAID WEST RIGHT-OF-WAY
LINE AND ALONG SAID NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE
S82°40'00"W, 195.80 FEET; THENCE LEAVING SAID NORTH
RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE N02°11'00"E, 88.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING, CONTAINING 1.443 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
Said real property is hereby rezoned from Zoning Classification C-2 to PUD.
SECTION TWO: The map referred in Ordinance No. 213 of the City of
Jacksonville, Arkansas, as amended by Ordinance No. 238 and designated as the official Zoning and
Land Use Map, should be and hereby is amended to the extent and in the respects necessary to effect
and designate the changes provided for herein.
SECTION THREE: All Ordinances and Resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.
9
ORDINANCE NO. 1783 (#12 - 2025)
Page Two
SECTION FOUR: It is hereby found and determined that the rezoning of the
property described herein from residential to commercial is necessary for the immediate preservation
of public peace, health, safety, and welfare. The proposed commercial development will enhance
economic opportunities, promote orderly growth, and provide essential services to the community.
Furthermore, any delay in implementing this ordinance could hinder economic development, disrupt
planned business operations, and negatively impact the general welfare of the city.
Therefore, an emergency is declared to exist, and this ordinance shall be in full force and
effect immediately upon passage and approval.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
_______________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
ATTEST:
_________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
10
11
ORDINANCE NO. 1784 (#13 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE,
ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 7430 T.P. WHITE DRIVE); AMENDING
ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER
PURPOSES.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: The zone classification of the following property be and hereby is
changed as indicated below:
Legal Description:
PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4, SECTION 33, T-4-N, R-10-W,
PULASKI COUNTY, ARKANSAS MORE PARTICULARLY
DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION
33, T-4-N, R-10-W; THENCE S01°50'13"W, 713.37 FEET; THENCE
S01°49'49"W, 624.65 FEET; THENCE S01°47'51"W, 24.84 FEET TO
THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING S01°47'51"W,
66.50 FEET; THENCE N87°46'07"W, 341.67 FEET; THENCE
S01°50'53"W, 254.87 FEET; THENCE N87°47'11"W, 1136.18 FEET TO
THE EAST RIGHT OF WAY OF US HWY 67/167; THENCE ALONG
SAID RIGHT OF WAY N26°33'26"E, 352.21 FEET; THENCE LEAVING
SAID RIGHT OF WAY S87°48'06"E, 1330.56 FEET TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING, CONTAINING 8.35 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
Said real property is hereby rezoned from Zoning Classification C-3 to C-4.
SECTION TWO: The map referred in Ordinance No. 213 of the City of
Jacksonville, Arkansas, as amended by Ordinance No. 238 and designated as the official Zoning and
Land Use Map, should be and hereby is amended to the extent and in the respects necessary to effect
and designate the changes provided for herein.
SECTION THREE: All Ordinances and Resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.
SECTION FOUR: It is hereby found and determined that the rezoning of the
property described herein from residential to commercial is necessary for the immediate preservation
of public peace, health, safety, and welfare. The proposed commercial development will enhance
economic opportunities, promote orderly growth, and provide essential services to the community.
Furthermore, any delay in implementing this ordinance could hinder economic development, disrupt
planned business operations, and negatively impact the general welfare of the city.
12
ORDINANCE NO. 1784 (#13 - 2025)
Page Two
Therefore, an emergency is declared to exist, and this ordinance shall be in full force and
effect immediately upon passage and approval.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
_______________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
ATTEST:
_________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
13
14
ORDINANCE NO. 1785 (#14 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE,
ARKANSAS (PARCEL LOCATED AT 420 WEST HICKORY); AMENDING ORDINANCE
NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE,
ARKANSAS; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: The zone classification of the following property be and hereby is
changed as indicated below:
Legal Description:
THE WEST ½ OF LOTS 1 AND 2, BLOCK 5, JONES ADDITION TO
THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, PULASKI COUNTY, ARKANSAS.
Said real property is hereby rezoned from Zoning Classification R-0 to R-2.
SECTION TWO: The map referred in Ordinance No. 213 of the City of
Jacksonville, Arkansas, as amended by Ordinance No. 238 and designated as the official Zoning and
Land Use Map, should be and hereby is amended to the extent and in the respects necessary to effect
and designate the changes provided for herein.
SECTION THREE: All Ordinances and Resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.
SECTION FOUR: It is hereby found and determined that the rezoning of the
property described herein from residential to commercial is necessary for the immediate preservation
of public peace, health, safety, and welfare. The proposed commercial development will enhance
economic opportunities, promote orderly growth, and provide essential services to the community.
Furthermore, any delay in implementing this ordinance could hinder economic development, disrupt
planned business operations, and negatively impact the general welfare of the city.
Therefore, an emergency is declared to exist, and this ordinance shall be in full force and
effect immediately upon passage and approval.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
_______________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
15
ORDINANCE NO. 1785 (#14 - 2025)
Page Two
ATTEST:
_________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
16
17
ORDINANCE NO. 1786 (#15 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE LOCATION OF IN-GROUND/ABOVE-GROUND
SWIMMING POOLS WITHIN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, CREATING
JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE 8.05.021; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND,
FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the City Council of Jacksonville, Arkansas, finds that regulations are necessary
to protect neighboring properties and ensure the safe and orderly installation of in-ground/above-
ground swimming pools within residential areas; and,
WHEREAS, improperly placed or drained pools can cause safety hazards, property damage,
and drainage issues; and,
WHEREAS, Jacksonville Municipal Code § 8.10.010 already provides fencing and safety
requirements for private swimming pools, and the Council now seeks to supplement that Code by
regulating pool location to protect public health, safety, and welfare.
BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: JMC § 8.10.021—Location of In-Ground/Above-Ground Pools – shall
be created to read as follows:
All in-ground/above-ground swimming pools, including inflatable or framed structures
capable of holding water more than twenty-four inches (24”) in depth, must be located no
more forward than the rear face of the residence.
SECTION TWO: The City Council finds that unregulated in-ground/above-ground pool
placement and drainage pose immediate risks to adjacent property owners and public infrastructure.
Therefore, an emergency is declared to exist, and this Ordinance shall be in full force and effect
immediately upon passage and publication.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
_______________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
18
ORDINANCE NO. 1786 (#15 - 2025)
Page Two
ATTEST:
_________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
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