City Council
Regular MeetingJacksonville, AR · August 7, 2025
Minutes
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 7, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY HALL - #1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE
The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular
session on August 7, 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, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered
ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0).
Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Fire Chief
Alan Laughy, Human Resource Director Charlette Nelson, Assistant City Clerk
Emilia Vazquez, Director of Economic Development Robert Birch, Director of
Communications Emily Sundermeier, Jeff Twitty, Gary Fletcher, Jessica Cox,
Barry Jefferson, and Reginald Ford.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular
City Council meeting of July 17, 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 Mimms that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of
July 3, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA:
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
SANITATION DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION:
PLANNING COMMISSION:
COMMITTEE(S):
GENERAL: a. PUBLIC HEARING FY25 CDBG Annual Action Plan
Mayor Elmore opened the public hearing at approximately 6:02 p.m.
CDBG Director Michelle Spencer stated: “Hello beautiful people of
Jacksonville, Mayor, Council Members, and City comrades. This public hearing
is being held in accordance to our citizen participation plan as it relates
to the annual action plan process. We are currently in our 5th year of the 5-
year Consolidated Plan from 2021-2025. All public notices were advertised in
the Leader and a draft of the plan was posted on the website and various
locations for review. 3 public meetings were held in June and had a total of
25 attendees with 20 surveys collected. All results can be found within the
plan on pages 40-41. The 30-day public comment period was July 2nd-31st.
During the period we received 1 comment as well as a request for a meeting,
which was very interesting and a well thought out meeting, and is explained
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 7, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
in more detail on page 39. You’ll notice in the comments, the eligible CDBG
activities are notated and the comments mentioned more than once are also
notated. I will be discussing the comments not related to Community
Development with other department leads, so they are aware, in order to
obtain possible solutions to those comments. Please note, there will be an
additional advertisement insert dated August 6th, as well as 1 more clearance
letter that will be sent from one of the state clearing officers next Monday.
Both will be added prior to submission on or before August 13th as well as
any corrections that are needed.
I’ll cover a few logistics, on behalf of Program Year 2025. We will allocate
$55,729.00 to Housing & Housing Administration, $15,000.00 to Create a
Suitable Living Environment: eliminating slum and blight, $15,000.00 to
Economic Development: to create jobs or provide training, $80,000.00 to
Public Facility/Improvements: with emphasis on repairs to Public Facilities
and a Community Garden Project, $38,245.00 to Public Service, which has a 15%
cap, and $50,994.00 to Administration, which has a 20% cap. The Total of
Anticipated Resources for 2025 is $254,968.00.
We had a late start on 2024’s award which was released in January 2025. We
are currently expending the 2024 funds and will continue steadfast to expend
those funds moving forward. We have accomplished so far this year; rehab
projects and demos as well as public facility improvements. We will be
knocking out additional home rehabs and public improvement activities to
finish out the year strong.
Since I have your attention, I would like to touch base on a few milestones
during my tenure that I’m excited about. Did you know? During the Program
Year 2022 we received $219,338.00 which was a 6% increase from 2021. Did you
also know in 2023 we received $227,969.00 which was a 4% increase from 2022?
In 2024 we received $230,739.00 which was a 1% increase from 2023. And last
but not least in 2025 we will receive $254,968.00 which is an increase of 11%
from 2024. Please note, the difference from 2020’s allocation to this year’s
allocation is an increase of 21% over the 5 years. I would say that’s a very
positive accomplishment for Jacksonville, wouldn’t you? Considering how
across the nation, so many cities have experienced cuts in their CDBG award
allocations, however despite those cuts, we (Jacksonville) have progressively
increased over the years.
I’ll point out that I’ve finalized Mandated Reports successfully, which
include 2022, 2023, 2024’s Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report
(CAPER), the 2023 and 2024 Annual Action Plan (AAP) of the 5-year
Consolidated Plan and most recently we’ve successfully processed the 2025
AAP. Also, reallocated the 2020 Substantial Amendment to the AAP for COVID
funds and finally today received local HUD representative on the go ahead to
be able to start processing that after three years, which is well overdue.
I’ve also Administered each grant successfully through projects, programs and
services on behalf of the very low to low-income residents of Jacksonville,
administered projects after the disaster to assist citizens with damages to
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 7, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
their homes from the storms in 23 and 24, and currently seeking to apply for
disaster recovery funds to further assist the residents who were
significantly affected by the storms and have not gained home stability as of
today’s date, (more information to come).
You all, these reports are usually outsourced to contractors in most cities.
We were blessed to be able to contract with the previous director, due to her
years of experience, in order to finalize the 2021-2022 AAP and 2021 CAPER
prior to my start date and we didn’t have to outsource. Since my tenure, ALL
annual reports and end of year reports have been completed by yours truly,
which is usually above and beyond the skill set for a new director and
contracting is a must most times. I said all that to say while it’s a very
demanding task, the achievements are very rewarding for me when I can see the
fruits of my labor manifest itself in increases in our annual allocations
each year, which ultimately helps more of our low to moderate-income families
and citizens. I have in front of me a very big decision to make regarding
preparations for our next 5-year Con Plan, which will be due in 2026 and will
cover the years of 2026-2030. Do I contract out or do I take on this very
prodigious task, that’s the question? With lots of time and preparation I
veer more to the latter and will share the decision later in the year.
Meanwhile I will be seeking a software contractor to convert all existing and
future files and all our application processes over to an electronic
database. In preparation of future programming to be added under the umbrella
of Community Development, I will start to vet software vendors to assist with
the filing and online databases we are currently needing. At this time, the
software contractor will take the place of a part-time specialist. We will
definitely explore hiring a specialist after the 2026 5-year Con Plan is
finalized and our electronic system is up and running efficiently and
effectively.
Also, I am excited to share the name of our new subrecipient partnership that
I will pass the 2024 public service baton to, which is Jacksonville Community
Worship Center, who will continue to provide services to the residents of
Jacksonville by way of food distribution, utility assistance, and temporary
shelter assistance. They have been thoroughly trained and come with a wealth
of experience and will start to administer funds soon. They will be
presenting next on the agenda on all the services they currently provide and
will be providing to the community.
Moving forward we will announce through a request for proposal (RFP), for the
2025 sub-recipient public service application process to allow an opportunity
for organizations to apply for public service funding who want to. Please
note, in order to apply you would need to be an existing productive
organization in Jacksonville for at least 1 year and be registered and in
good standing with the non-profit status, among other requirements. I’ve
covered quite a bit, and will now yield the floor for any questions you may
have. Thank you”
Mayor Elmore closed the public hearing at approximately 6:13 p.m.
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 7, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
b. PRESENTATION: New CDBG sub-recipient
Operations Manager for Jacksonville Community Worship Center Sandra Thomas
noted the pantry started in 2017 at 500 West Hickory Street. She recalled
being near the Unsheltered, who would often stop in to request assistance for
food, utilities, clothing, temporary shelter, and counseling services, which
they provided through donations. She told how they moved to 424 Church Street
in 2018, continued providing assistance, and through their partnership with
the Arkansas Food Bank, provided 125,000 pounds of food. She stated in April,
they became a host agency for Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, who is now also
able to purchase from the Food Bank. She brought up when an apartment complex
on Marshall Road had no utilities for 16 days, they provided two truckloads
of food to the Marshall Road Baptist Church, who accepted them to store and
now wants to be hosted as a food pantry. She mentioned the food boxes around
the City are supplied by a non-profit, Shelter From the Rain, whose director,
Mary Snider, is present. She explained they partnered with her to ensure they
stay full since she is doing great work for the community. She noted they
have had partnerships with healthcare facilities, master gardeners, and
recently the NAACP for their well-attended Health and Wellness Fair. She
affirmed with this Public Service funding, they aim to make a significant
impact ensuring no child or family will be subjected to being hungry or
homeless. She confirmed regardless of the size, no one church, business, or
non-profit can reach everyone in our City who needs assistance.
c. ORDINANCE 1793 (#22-2025)
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A HYBRID CITY COUNCIL SEAT STRUCTURE DESIGNATING
POSITION 1 AS WARD-BASED AND POSITION 2 AS AT-LARGE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member McCoy mentioned racial discord regarding the at-large voting
question. She believes Council should be open and not push it to one side
over another, because this impacts the entire City. She has petitions of
people who want at-large voting dismantled, noting there was a poll on
Facebook showing ward-based was preferred. She brought up the hybrid option
was a fair compromise, but has since learned people want ward-based only.
Council Member McCoy moved to place Ordinance 1793 on FIRST READING.
Discussion ensued regarding which version to read, since two were provided,
and it was determined to read the first, as stated above.
Council Member Moss seconded the motion. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple,
McCoy, LaBron, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with
Council Member Dietz, McCleary, and Ray voting NAY.
Mayor Elmore then read the heading of Ordinance 1793.
Council Member Moss shared Ordinance 420 in 1976 was regarding ward-based
voting, but was not acted upon since the sponsor was not present at the
meeting. He recalled the next time was Ordinance 1661 in 2021 that was voted
down. He believes this is not a Council decision, but should go to the
voters; although he is in favor of ward-based.
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 7, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
Council Member McCoy explained placing it on the ballot would require it be
written for an 8th grade reading level. She questioned if this would be the
work of Council to prepare.
City Clerk Davitt responded that Council would have to pass an ordinance to
place it on the ballot.
Council Member McCoy questioned if that is the direction Council wants to go.
Council Member LaBron and Moss concurred.
Council Member Twitty shared that she does not want Council to put it on the
ballot, because she believes it is a conflict of interest to tell the public
how to vote for her. She confirmed she is for at-large voting, but if a group
or individual wants to put it on the ballot, it needs to be done that way if
they are for it, but she is not.
Council Member McCoy related if Council passes an ordinance changing to ward-
based, it must be filed with the County Clerk by August 31st.
Council Member Ruple noted the ordinance would need an emergency clause.
City Clerk Davitt confirmed if Council puts it on the ballot, it is not the
same deadline. She pointed out there would be a cost to put it on the ballot
for the next General Election.
Mayor Elmore explained if Council approves the ordinance, it would take
effect for November of next year, but if placed on the ballot, he would have
to speak to the Election Commission for the timeline.
Council Member Kinman brought up texts received saying the population of the
City needs to decide, affirming it should be on the ballot.
Council Member McCoy mentioned some wanting at-large because they do not
think people are responsible enough to represent their ward; so, the whole
City wants to pick for that ward, instead of those who live there. She
reiterated that there was polling done on social media favoring ward-based.
Council Member Twitty noted the poll was taken down because a lot of people
making remarks were not Jacksonville citizens.
Council Member McCoy related there was a second more accurate one. She
recommended ward-based only voting, so that it is fair.
Mayor Elmore mentioned wards being set by the State dividing the City into as
equal portions as possible.
Council Member Moss shared that Ordinance 1222 of 2004 placed changing the
terms of aldermen on the ballot, so there is precedent for Council to approve
an initiative to go on the ballot that changes City government.
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 7, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
Council Member Ray called for the vote.
Council Member McCoy moved, seconded by Council Member Moss to APPROVE
Ordinance 1793 on FIRST READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1793 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCoy, and LaBron
voted AYE. MOTION FAILED with Council Member Dietz, McCleary, Ray, Moss,
Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voting NAY.
APPOINTMENTS:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
NEW BUSINESS: Council Member McCoy recalled holding a forum recently where
concerns regarding the cleanliness of the City were brought up. She requested
Council to look at different wards together and plan a cleanup since it takes
the community as a whole; not only City employees. She mentioned a civic
organization or Chamber could start the initiate then ask the City to join.
Council Member McCleary requested Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam
Whitlow to give an update on street overlays.
Director Whitlow confirmed they bid and awarded the overlay for the year,
surmising there were portions of South Road included. He related the Notice
to Proceed was to start July 28th, the contractor has not made a presence yet,
but has 120 days to complete it. He mentioned a contractor doing a condition
assessment who scanned every street for a Pavement Condition Index score. He
added that they also flag every pothole and now they have a Google Earth map
showing color-coded conditions. He brought up using the Index to preserve
streets before they have to be milled and overlayed since it is much cheaper.
He noted when it comes to litter cleanup, if there is a community sponsored
event, the County will provide dumpsters and the City would have trucks
available.
Council Member McCoy mentioned Keep Arkansas Beautiful will provide supplies
and fall signup is going on now.
A brief discussion ensued regarding different contractors affecting City
streets and appearance where Director Whitlow shared that Kip Guthrie is the
engineer contact regarding the highway construction.
Council Member Ruple mentioned a city-wide cleanup scheduled through Parks
and Rec.
Council Member McCoy noted the NAACP does a cleanup on Graham Road the second
Saturday of every month with one being this Saturday starting at 9 a.m.
A brief discussion ensued regarding adopting streets for cleanups.
Citizen Wendell Redmond of Oakridge Drive told how a contractor was digging
on his street, but left holes and debris. He contacted Public Works, who did
not know who it was at the time, but it ended up being Entergy.
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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6:00 P.M. – 7:07 P.M.
Director Whitlow confirmed the City has a permitting process for excavating
in the rights-of-way, but they did not know who it was at first because
Entergy did not pull a permit.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at
approximately 7:07 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
August 7, 2025 6:00 p.m.
1. OPENING PRAYER: PAGES
2. ROLL CALL:
3. PRESENTATION OF Regular City Council Meeting
MINUTES: July 17, 2025 1-7
4. APPROVALS AND/OR Regular City Council Meeting
CORRECTION OF MINUTES: July 3, 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:
14. COMMITTEE(S):
15. GENERAL: PUBLIC HEARING
a. FY25 CDBG Annual Action Plan
(included in packet) (Mayor Elmore)
b. PRESENTATION: New CDBG
sub-recipient (Mayor Elmore)
c. ORDINANCE 1793 (#22-2025) Establishing
a Hybrid City Council Seat Structure
(two versions) (Council Member McCoy) 8-11
16. APPOINTMENTS:
17. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
18. NEW BUSINESS:
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:01 P.M.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY HALL - #1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE
The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met for a regular
session on July 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, Kinman, and Mimms answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Elmore also answered
ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT TEN (10) ABSENT ZERO (0).
Others present for the meeting were: Police Chief Brett Hibbs, Assistant Fire
Chief Dewan Laws, Parks & Rec Director Kevin House, Finance Director Laura
Collie, Director of Engineering & Public Works Adam Whitlow, CDBG Director
Michelle Spencer, and Assistant City Clerk Emilia Vazquez.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Elmore presented the minutes of the regular
City Council meeting of July 3, 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 LaBron that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of
June 5, 2025 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary
to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE
PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED
Building Permits 23 Building 45
Business License 6 Electrical 54
Plumbing 37
HVACR 27
FIRE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE
Estimated fire loss for the month: $ 24,200.00
Savings total for the month: $ 765,800.00
POLICE DEPARTMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE
Topic 2025 2024 2025 2024
Total Complaint Calls 2787 2546
Homicide Reported 1 1 Theft Reported 51 60
Homicide Cleared 1 0 Theft Cleared 25 49
Rape/Sex Assault Reported 3 3 Vehicle Theft Reported 4 6
Rape/Sex Assault Cleared 2 0 Vehicle Theft Cleared 1 2
Robbery Reported 1 1 Felony Cases Reported 116 103
Robbery Cleared 2 0 Felony Cases Closed 103 153
Felony Assaults Reported 18 9 Misd Cases Reported 263 269
Felony Assaults Cleared 19 6 Misd Cases Closed 193 225
Burglary Reported 18 9
Burglary Cleared 6 12
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REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:01 P.M.
CODE ENFORCEMENT REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/JUNE
Assigned Calls 107 Demolition by City 9
Self-Initiated Calls 213 Demolition by Owner 0
Follow Up Inspections 707 Parking Violations 7
Complied after Notice 151 Garbage Cans Tagged 0
Three Day Notice 30 Basketball Goals 0
Seven Day Letter 299 Structures Inspected 1027
Citation Letters Mailed 39 Apartment Complexes Inspected 0
Citations Issued 9 Red Tags Issued 1
Vehicles Tagged 38 Search Warrants 2
Vehicles Towed 4 Grass Mowed 157
Unsafe Structures Tagged 0 Signs Removed 13
Structures Condemned 0 Shopping Carts 0
Structures Rehabbed 2
FINANCE DEPARTMENT INTERIM FINANCIAL REPORT/JUNE
Total Revenues Total Expenditures
General Fund $ 9,705,117 $ 13,163,522
Street Fund $ 1,339,469 $ 803,692
Sanitation Services Fund $ 706,363 $ 1,107,750
AG&F Shooting Sports Complex $ 196,824 $ 231,998
EMS Fund $ 1,256,651 $ 1,430,273
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
SANITATION DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION:
PLANNING COMMISSION:
COMMITTEE(S):
GENERAL: a. SECOND READING ORDINANCE 1792 (#21-2025)
AN ORDINANCE DISSOLVING THE JACKSONVILLE HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION;
REPEALING CHAPTER 2.26 OF THE JACKSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE; AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Council Member Kinman moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to place
Ordinance 1792 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Ruple, McCleary,
Moss, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE and Council Member Dietz, McCoy, Ray,
LaBron, and Twitty voting NAY. MOTION CARRIED with Mayor Elmore voting AYE to
break the tie vote. Whereupon City Attorney Friedman read the heading of
Ordinance 1792.
Council Member Kinman requested confirmation this would not dissolve the
Historical Museum, but only the Commission.
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Mayor Elmore concurred, saying this dissolves the Commission, which is
separate from the Historical Society that is an official 501(c)(3) Board of
Directors, stands on its own, and has been in place. He explained the
Commission has not operated in its proper function and the District/Society
would stay in place since the City has no oversight and they are their own
entity. He reiterated this would end the Commission that reports to the City
and the legal liability for it.
Council Member Ray brought up dissolving the Commission and selling the
building. He recalled hearing the City was going to put out a memo for the
owners to pick items up, so he took that as the entire thing being dissolved.
Mayor Elmore confirmed the Museum has been closed since August of last year.
He mentioned rumors he was throwing away items in two days, but that is
incorrect. He confirmed anyone who has possessions there can retrieve them
any time. He stressed that this has nothing to do with the Museum; this is
just about the non-functioning Commission. He recalled it was formed years
after the Society created the Museum and this will remove City oversight.
Council Member Ray suggested reorganizing it instead of using the word
“dissolve,” because everyone thinks the City is throwing away the entire
thing.
Mayor Elmore clarified that it never operated properly by having public
meetings, maintaining records, keeping meeting minutes, and all financials
turned into Finance; none of that was happening. He reiterated that they can
still function as their own Society and does not have to be a part of the
City government.
City Attorney Friedman confirmed she had sent Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) requests for the financial information, but has not received anything.
When Council Member Moss inquired about the Museum building, Mayor Elmore
reiterated that it has nothing to do with the Commission, but it will
probably be sold since the City is reducing properties. He affirmed that the
Museum is not going back into it, no matter what happens with the Commission.
He related that there was never a lease signed between the City and the
Society.
Mayor Elmore brought up that Robin Wakefield is the CEO.
Council Member Twitty mentioned that Jerry Sanders wants more time to get
their belongings out.
Mayor Elmore stated people can come with City supervision and a member of the
Society to retrieve their items. When Council Member Kinman inquired if the
Society could purchase the building, he replied that it could be possible. He
added that there was an individual who made an offer on it, but it was months
ago and was not accepted.
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City Attorney Friedman confirmed this would not change how the Society is
ran; this is an administrative issue.
Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE
Ordinance 1792 on SECOND READING and SUSPEND THE RULES and place Ordinance
1792 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz, Ruple,
McCleary, Moss, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with
Council Member Ray and LaBron voting NAY and Council Member McCoy ABSTAINING.
Council Member Ruple moved, seconded by Council Member McCleary to APPROVE
AND ADOPT Ordinance 1792 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dietz,
Ruple, McCleary, Twitty, Kinman, and Mimms voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED with
Council Member Ray, LaBron, and Moss voting NAY and Council Member McCoy
ABSTAINING.
ORDINANCE 1792 (#21-2025) APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 17TH DAY OF JULY, 2025.
b. PRESENTATION: At-Large Voting by Former Council Member, Terry Sansing,
NAACP members
Former Council Member Terry Sansing recalled being against ward-based voting,
but during a discussion with Reginald Ford, he changed his mind. He explained
in the past, some candidates won their ward, but still lost because it was
voted at-large. He noted the people in the ward wanted them as
representation, but did not get them. He told how a citizen was asked by a
friend to display signs in her yard, but had no idea who the candidates were,
or which were for her ward. He pointed out that this is not a good way to
have a representative form of government if the constituents do not know who
they are voting for. He mentioned incumbents having a great advantage because
they have a known name and opponents have to fight hard to get theirs known.
He acknowledged Jacksonville and Council are mostly conservative-minded, but
there are other ways. He brought up a possibility of having one seat at-large
and the other ward-based, so Council can see how it is working for the City.
Steve Grappe of Stand Up Arkansas and the Jacksonville NAACP shared a
PowerPoint presentation regarding at-large versus ward-based elections. He
mentioned Stand Up Arkansas’ mission to improve civic engagement, since the
State is ranked 51st using the Civic Engagement Index. He explained it takes
into consideration the number of registered voters and those who vote. He
related that the City is 50% lower than the State average, so they have been
looking at ways to get more people involved, running for office, and voting.
He mentioned receiving a grant to increase civic engagement and how in the
last election Stonewall, Foxwood, and Stonewall East neighborhoods accounted
for 54% of all votes and decided every wards’ council member. He brought up a
20-25% difference in voting between Ward 5 and 2 with areas of the City that
has not had a council member in at least five cycles, so there are people who
are not getting represented. He pointed out that at-large voting is against
the people in their own ward because here, we have 29,000+ people, 24,000 are
eligible to vote, but we have many wards where less than 50% do. He told how
with ward-based elections, everyone can get a bite of their “piece of the
pie” because they do not have to worry about influencing parts of the City
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6:00 P.M. – 7:01 P.M.
they do not know. He noted that now, candidates have to reach 29,000 people;
no matter where you live, what your income is, or your neighborhood’s
socioeconomic level. He surmised they would need at least $10,000 to
campaign, but if it is broken down to wards, it creates an affordability to
get into the race. He wants informed voters who research and know candidates,
but it is hard to know five wards-worth. He recalled growing up on Shirley
Cove on the east side of the City, an area that does not get the same
attention as others. He related how people in that neighborhood are not
voting as much because they do not feel they are being heard. He confirmed
changing is not a costly endeavor, noting Cabot did it for less than $3,000
and Conway and Fayetteville have done it also. He recalled Conway changing
theirs to ward-based in 2014, then the next election had a record number of
candidates. He added that they also got sidewalk specs that had been on the
docket for 10 years in the lower income part of town. He told how the State
passed legislation last spring that states if cities are going to change by
Council voting on it, it has to be filed with the Clerk by August 31st for the
next election. He believes the citizens want it, adding that they have
petitions signed from each ward. He told how Senator Jamie Scott supports the
change and surmised Representative Mark Perry would. He invited everyone to a
townhall meeting 2-4 p.m. Saturday at the Nixon Library for their input.
Council Member McCoy brought up that a hybrid structure would be a fair
compromise, with one seat at-large and the other ward-based.
Council Member Kinman suggested putting it on the ballot to let the citizens
vote, since it should not be decided only by Council.
Council Member Dietz agreed.
Council Member McCoy clarified there is no cost for Council to draft an
ordinance and vote. She mentioned this is not just Council deciding, but
citizens have given their input.
Council Member Twitty surmised those same citizens would be willing to put it
on the ballot. She mentioned transparency and how not every citizen is in
attendance tonight or aware of this possible change. She asked if the City is
going to do something this big, why not let the voters decide?
Mr. Grappe confirmed if this is put on the ballot, it will not take effect
until 2028. He pointed out that the State has dismantled the ballot
initiative system, noting there were twelve laws passed at the last General
Election to make the ballot initiative system almost obsolete and
intentionally done to stop the process. He stated that would be costly to the
City, but if Council changes it and did not like it, they could reverse it
the next cycle. He affirmed if Council waits and does a ballot initiative, it
is going to divide the City, because people will organize.
Council Member Ray recalled an at-large person added to each ward for a
better cross section of people elected. He would not have gotten elected if
he was in a ward section, because there is not a dominant ward in the City.
5
5
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:01 P.M.
Council Member Twitty confirmed Cabot has denied this change several times.
Mr. Grappe clarified that Conway, not Cabot, just passed it. He told how if
the City has a ward that does not have good voter turnout, for example Ward
2, they can never have a say in who their representative is.
Council Member Ray mentioned how the forefathers saw fit to try to make a
cross section of the people of Jacksonville to get elected.
Mr. Grappe replied that the system in the U.S. was created to where it can
change with the times, because all of the things the forefathers put in place
were not right. He noted a lot of amendments have been made, and this is the
latest in doing better for the people and what they want. He surmised if this
was put on the ballot, it would win by 65%.
Council Member Kinman affirmed whether at-large or ward-based, she is going
to work for all the people of Jacksonville.
Mr. Sansing brought up that Council was voted in by the citizens to be their
representatives and to make decisions. He suggested they discuss it, decide
what form, and go with it, since Council is entirely within their right to
decide how the voting is done. He confirmed since they have been voted into
office, the people trust the decisions they make.
Council Member McCoy mentioned Council voting on ordinances and making
decisions for everyone without every citizens’ input; this is no different
from that. She suggested keeping an open mind and not be resistant to change.
Council Member Twitty reiterated that all citizens, not just the ten council
members, should make that decision.
Council Member Dietz moved to ADJOURN the meeting. MOTION DIED for lack of a
second.
ADDITION TO AGENDA: Council Member Ray moved, seconded by Council Member
LaBron to SUSPEND THE RULES to add an appointment to the agenda. MOTION
CARRIED.
APPOINTMENTS: A & P COMMISSION
Council Member Twitty moved, seconded by Council Member Ruple to approve the
appointment of Edgar Atilano for a term to expire 03-31-2029. MOTION CARRIED.
RESUME AGENDA:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
NEW BUSINESS: Citizen Concern
Citizen Todd Underwood of 602 Welham Street mentioned considering moving away
due to the flooding and uncleanliness of the City. He brought up concerns
about grass not being mowed and trash being around.
6
6
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 17, 2025
6:00 P.M. – 7:01 P.M.
Mayor Elmore replied there are hard working city employees to do those jobs,
but part of the issue is being understaffed. He noted another problem is
people not taking responsibility and disposing of trash appropriately.
Council Member McCoy suggested starting a group, or connecting with the NAACP
group that adopted Graham Road and picks up litter once a quarter.
Council Member Twitty related that she speaks weekly to Code Enforcement
regarding such citizen concerns. She told how there is a particular house
that is unsafe, trashy, and not mowed that she get complaints on
consistently, but Code has a lengthy list of yards to mow and the process
addressing citations is lengthy as well having to wait on court dates, etc.
Mr. Underwood understood, but stated they would like the value of their home
to increase and if the neighborhood is going down, their value will as well.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council Member Birthday
Mayor Elmore announced that Council Member Ray will be turning 85 years old
this Sunday.
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Elmore adjourned the meeting at
approximately 7:01 p.m. MOTION CARRIED.
Respectfully,
________________________ _________________________
Susan L. Davitt MAYOR JEFF ELMORE
City Clerk-Treasurer
7
7
ORDINANCE NO. 1793 (#22 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A HYBRID CITY COUNCIL SEAT
STRUCTURE DESIGNATING POSITION 1 AS WARD-BASED AND POSITION 2
AS AT-LARGE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the City of Jacksonville currently operates under an at-large voting
system for city council positions; and
WHEREAS, Ark. Code Ann. § 14-43-307 authorizes cities of the first class to
determine by ordinance the method of electing city council members, including whether such
members are elected by ward or at-large; and
WHEREAS, Act 283 of 2025 further affirms municipal authority to transition from
at-large to hybrid structures to improve localized representation; and
WHEREAS, the Jacksonville City Council desires to implement a hybrid structure to
enhance community representation while maintaining city-wide engagement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: Position 1 shall be designated as a ward-based position, elected
solely by the residents of the ward in which the council member resides.
SECTION TWO: Position 2 shall remain an at-large position, elected by the
voters of the entire city.
SECTION THREE: This ordinance shall be implemented in accordance with
applicable state laws, including Ark. Code Ann. § 14-43-307 and Act 283 of 2025.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF _________ 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
__________________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
8
ATTEST:
____________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________________
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
9
ORDINANCE NO. 1793 (#22 - 2025)
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A HYBRID CITY COUNCIL SEAT
STRUCTURE DESIGNATING POSITION 1 AS AT-LARGE AND POSITION 2 AS
WARD-BASED; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the City of Jacksonville currently operates under an at-large voting
system for city council positions; and
WHEREAS, Ark. Code Ann. § 14-43-307 authorizes cities of the first class to
determine by ordinance the method of electing city council members, including whether such
members are elected by ward or at-large; and
WHEREAS, Act 283 of 2025 further affirms municipal authority to transition from
at-large to hybrid structures to improve localized representation; and
WHEREAS, the Jacksonville City Council desires to implement a hybrid structure to
enhance community representation while maintaining city-wide engagement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED AND ENACTED BY THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: Position 1 shall be designated as an at-large position, elected
by the voters of the entire city.
SECTION TWO: Position 2 shall be designated as a ward-based position, elected
solely by the residents of the ward in which the council member resides.
SECTION THREE: This ordinance shall be implemented in accordance with
applicable state laws, including Ark. Code Ann. § 14-43-307 and Act 283 of 2025.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS _____ DAY OF _________ 2025.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
__________________________________
JEFF ELMORE, MAYOR
10
ATTEST:
____________________________________
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________________
STEPHANIE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY
11
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