City Council - Regular Meeting

is Monday, August 17th, 2026, and it's approximately 528 p.m. Tonight we have two budget adjustments to consider, and these are on our agenda. These are agenda items number seven and eight. The first one is a resolution amending the 2026 municipal budget to allocate funds within the police department for purchase of fuel. If you turn over there, the total budget adjustment is 160,000. That is coming from salaries and it is going to vehicle fuel as well as training.

There we go.

Testing?

Yeah.

We got it? All right, okay. And so that total budget adjustment is 160,000, 150 going to vehicle fuel, the other 10,000 going towards training.

I move we send this budget adjustment to the full council with a due pass.

And I will second. All those in favor, let it be known by saying aye.

Aye.

Aye. Any opposed? Ayes have it, and that is sent to the full council. Second budget adjustment is a resolution amending the 2026 municipal budget to allocate funds within the street department. The total budget adjustment is $8,823. This is coming from within the street department's budget. It's coming out of the speed humps line item, and it's going to capital purchases. This is to complete an invoice for the purchase of our... our lift truck that we purchased a couple of months ago i move that we send this budget judgment to the full council to do fast and i will second uh all those in favor let it be known by saying aye aye aye any opposed eyes have it motion is approved uh do we have any other business for ways and means no sir mr chair motion to adjourn i will second uh ways and means is adjourned

Ordinance and resolutions, we have three ordinances. Number one is up for the third and final reading. Number two is up for the third and final reading. Number three is up for the second reading. Agenda items number four through ten are all resolutions, and they will be completed on tonight. Is there any further discussion for ordinance and resolutions?

No, Mr. Chair.

Motion to adjourn. Second. So moved.

It is 5.31. And we want to thank everyone for being here tonight for tonight's Pine Bluff City Council meeting. Today is August 17th, 2026. We will begin with public comments on agenda items. We have two people who have signed up to speak. The first is Dr. Adam Long, who is here to support agenda item number six. Is Dr. Long here?

Yes, video. Where is he?

He's .

Yes, good evening.

Oh, hey, Dr. Long. He's here on video.

Hey, thanks.

We're gonna see if we can get you set up. Give me just a second.

He's back here.

Okay, he's up there. Okay, great. Okay, Dr. Long, we see here that you are here to speak on item number six of resolution supporting the designation of the Arkansas Deltas National Heritage Area. So please continue.

Yes, thank you for having me this evening. I'm with Arkansas State University and wanted to give you a little bit of background on this agenda item. Arkansas State University the Arkansas Delta from north to south along the Mississippi River. And we, a couple of years ago, sought a grant from the Delta Regional Authority to conduct a feasibility study about whether a National Heritage Area would make sense in the region that we serve over a little bit east of you guys. And as part of this feasibility study, we discovered that there was a parallel effort going on in Time Bluff led by Michael McCrae, Jimmy Cunningham. And so we met with them and decided that our best bet was to combine our efforts. So we are now near the end of that feasibility study. I believe you have more information about what the National Heritage Area consists of. The short version is that it's a program by the National Park Service that gives some support to areas of national importance. In the US, some financial support, some technical support. But the areas remain locally owned and operated by a local board. There's no federal takeover of the lands. community partners can join in partnership on items that make sense to them, but aren't committed to join on any particular project. They're just areas where we can collaborate where it makes sense, maybe with a little bit of federal grant support. So as we... near the end of the feasibility study. We are asking for municipalities and counties and organizations to support the effort. So I appreciate your consideration tonight, and I'm happy to answer any questions.

Thank you so much, Dr. Long. Any members have any questions of Dr. Long? Okay, thank you so much Dr. Long for your presentation or your comments this evening. Next we have on the list for public comments, Michael McCray to speak on item number six regarding the same resolution.

Mayor Flowers, city council members, citizens all. My name is Michael McCray, and I'm here speaking on behalf of the Palm Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission in support of item number six, which is the designation of a Arkansas Delta Natural Heritage Area. Dr. Long gave you the brief overview of it. This, again, is a project that perfectly aligns with some of the revitalization efforts and strategies that the city and the AMP are currently enacting. Basically, it's a form of cultural heritage tourism. So once again, we're trying to approach tourism development from a regional approach. And this is part of the momentum that has been building from the Delta, Rhythm, and Bayou's highway recently the Blues and Wellness Plaza and actually what's coming up now is on August 24th we'll have the marker unveiling of the of the Arkansas 250 Saracen treating marker and then the following month we'll have the unveiling of the National Trail of Tears, the Horse Ross marker as well. We've got tourism assets, we've got culture, we've got heritage. This is a way that it helps to combine on a broader approach. I think it coincides with what we're doing and it is something that we should all support.

Thank you so much. Mr. McCray, hold on just a second if you don't mind. Any council members have any questions for Mr. McCray? Okay, all right, thank you for your presentation. And we will call this meeting to order and begin with the invocation tonight. Pastor Larry Ward Sr. of New Kingdom Baptist Church will lead us in our invocation this evening. Thank you, Pastor Ward. Will you please stand?

Let us bow. Mayor Flowers, city council members, all citizens, it's a pleasure to be before you this evening and Father God, we come to you right now bowed down head and humble hearts. Father God, we just ask you, Father God, to be in the midst of the meeting. Father God, we're catching all our cares upon you tonight, Father God. And I know in your words, Psalm 133, you say how good and pleasant it is for brethren to come together in unity. So Father God, let there be unity tonight, not just tonight, but from this night on, Father God. Lord, let there be unity in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Father God. Lord, we just need you all over this place, Father God. We need your Holy Spirit, Father God, to do what you do best, Father God. So, Father God, we ask you right now in the mighty name of Jesus, touch every heart, mind, and go deep down with all our souls, Father God. Anything that should not be, Father God, you've got all power in your hand, Father God. We just pray you fill all voids, Father God, and let your will be done. It is in Jesus' name, Father God, we pray. Let us all say together, amen, amen, amen.

Thank you so much, Pastor Ward. And next, we will be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Gracie Rainey, Landon Stewart, and Yara Tate of Yaa 8.

Let me get on the other side of you. And all you guys get close to the mic. Say it all together. One, two, three.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you.

Great job.

Okay, we will ask for Madam Clerk to call the roll. We'll approve minutes and then we have two special presentations. Madam Clerk, please call the roll.

Council Member Mayes. Council Member Holcomb. Here. Council Member Brown. Here. Council Member Lockett.

Here.

Council Member Frazier. Here. Council Member Brunson. Here. Council Member Denton. Here. Council Member Fells.

Here.

Okay, and we have a couple of sets of minutes, one from August 3rd, 2026, from our regular... meeting, the first council meeting of this month, and then a special call meeting on August 5th, 2026. I will entertain a motion to approve those sets of minutes.

So moved. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that the minutes from August 3rd and August 5th be approved. Any discussion? With no discussion, all of those who wish to vote for the approval of the aforementioned sets of minutes indicate by saying aye.

Aye.

Any opposed? Motions pass. And now it is my pleasure to first recognize Mr. Michael Harris to the podium to make a very special

Good evening.

Good evening. All right. So as she stated, my name is Michael Harris. I am representing the Arkansas Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Division. And I'm here this evening on behalf of the Arkansas Floodplain Management Association. This special presentation that I'm here to do this evening is for the city of Pine Bluff, which has won Community of the Year. I'm sorry, what was that?

What did we win?

Community of the Year. Thank you so much. Yes, ma'am. Hold the plaque up so it can be seen.

Lovely.

And I want to make sure that I had it right, so I'm going to read and let you know basically how the community, how the city won the award. It is given to a local government that exceeds baseline standards set by FEMA. They also have to be able to implement proactive risk reduction projects. and maintain certified staff, and engage in robust public engagement. And so this award was presented two weeks ago. We had a conference in Hot Springs. And this is when it was mentioned. the city of Pine Bluff was awarded and I was happily in the absence willing to accept it being a native of Pine Bluff myself so I wanted to be able to come here this evening and present it myself to the city to the mayor and commend everyone for great work and know that it is recognized statewide and in the region as well by your state and by FEMA

Thank you so much, Mr. Harris. We're really excited. I just want to make sure, did y'all hear that we are exceeding baseline standards? That, what is it, we are engaged in risk reduction and we have a robust public engagement. There was one more thing you said, but I missed it, but that's enough.

Yes, ma'am.

Would you mind coming up to the front, and then we could take a quick picture? Thank you so much.

One, two, three. One, two, three. One more.

So we are not only a community of the year for such a great acknowledgement for what you just heard, But we should be community of the year for turning out incredible young people. And so tonight, it is also my pleasure to recognize the great accomplishments of Neriah Eagles. Ms. Ackles, can you please stand and join us at the podium? And while you walk your way down, I'm going to take a little bit of time to share how this young woman is representing the great and historic city of Pine Bluff. So she is not only 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen, she is the state queen first runner up Yes, y'all can clap. Now, beauty is important. And it's a lovely thing to be acknowledged for. But it's even more important to be acknowledged for brains.

Yes.

And this young lady has won a 120,000 four-year scholarship to Midland University. So I just want to say personally, and I'm sure I would be echoing the sentiments of our council members who may also have comments to make, that it is young people like you who best represent everything that Pine Bluff has to offer as a community. And we are excited for what you have done and what you will do as you go out into the world. get your education and continue to represent yourself and your family and the city of Pine Bluff. Thank you so much. Any other comments, council members? Council member Fells?

I did just also want to shout out her mom, Nikki Agles. I know every time I see Ms. Agles, she's always doing something for her daughter, whether it's, you know, staying on the street corner, doing fundraising, or just going around city offices really pushing for her. So we want our young people to shine and be talented, but, you know, that only happens if they have good adults, good mentors, good parents. And so I also just want to commend the community that she has around her. Yes.

Yes. Oh, we're going to do that. Mom, can you please stand so everybody can see where all the talent comes from? She also has other, she won six other awards as well with those awards. Oh, she's about to tell us. Thank you, mom.

I have a speech first that I wrote. When I took the opportunity, I didn't take it for the wins. I took it to better myself and get out of my shell. Pageants gave me so many opportunities. I've met hundreds of girls and won many competitions, even got me a scholarship. But it's not about winning for me. It's about having fun and bringing my bubbly personality to others. making friendships that'll last a lifetime, meeting older role models that help boost confidence. National American Miss has brought me far, and I plan to keep going while encouraging others. I want to bring awareness to my community that you can be all you can be. Let's encourage girls my age to do their absolute best and never think twice about it. I want to thank my mom, who's been there, and I want to thank the community for all the support. I'm Naraya Akles. Thank you.

Thank you. And Ms. Akles, can you share with us the other honors that you received?

I got 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Casual Wear winner, 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Top Model winner, 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Miss Spirit winner, 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Photogenic winner, 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Harder Service winner, 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Runway winner, 2026 Miss Arkansas Junior Teen Best Resume First Runner-Up.

And would you real quickly, would you mind joining us on stage so we can take a quick picture?

You can bring them with you. We can all hold one.

Hold it up.

I got two devices, so this is the first one. On three. One, two, three. One, two, three. One more. One, two, three. Go tight. All right, here we go. One, three. One, two, three. One more. One, two, three. Got it. All right.

There you go.

We will continue with our agenda by starting with the delivery of our committee reports. And we will begin with Councilmember Brown to deliver the Ways and Means Committee Report.

Yes, thank you, Mayor. Ways and means met just before this council meeting. Tonight, we had two items on the agenda for the committee. These are agenda items number seven and eight in our packet. Both of these items were sent to the full council with a due pass, and that concludes my report.

Thank you. And next, Council Member Holcomb, will you please deliver your report on ordinances and resolutions?

Yes, Mayor. We have 10 agenda items. Three are ordinance. Number one is up for the third and final reading. Number two is up for the third and final reading. Number three is up for the second reading. Agenda items number four through 10 are all resolutions, and they will be completed on tonight. That concludes the ordinance and resolution.

Thank you so much. Next, we have Councilmember Frazier. Will you please deliver your report on economic and community development?

Thank you, Mayor. We do not have a report. We have not met. We will meet in September on the 10th at 11 a.m. at the Economic and Community Development Office and on virtual.

Thank you so much.

That concludes my report.

Thank you. Council Member Lockett, will you please deliver your report on public works?

Oh, I'm so sorry.

Okay. I'm prematurely check that, uh, council member Denton, will you please deliver your report on public health and welfare?

Yes, ma'am. Public health and work permit. Um, August the 6th at 3 p.m. in Old City Chambers, and a report from Bradley Pearson from Area Agency. They have 32 new vehicles that were purchased, which is a total of 140 vehicles, and also the addition of AAA-SEA launched a comprehensive fleet safety program that's focusing on promoting safe vehicle operation across all agency programs, and also a report from the cemetery They conducted a total of 13 services. They completed the barrel and service coordination as scheduled. The ground maintenance is ongoing throughout the month, and they provided with families and services that were needed and also continued without interruption. Transit and Health Department did not report, and that concludes my report.

Thank you so much, Councilmember. Council Member Lockett, will you please deliver your report on Public Works?

Thank you, Madam Mayor. The Public Works Committee has not met since our last meeting. We shall meet on next Tuesday, which will be the 25th at 1 o'clock at the old City Council Chambers. That concludes my report, Mayor.

Thank you so much. Council member Fells, will you please deliver your report on development and planning?

So development and planning did meet recently. We reviewed several property acquisition requests. They are still under review. We'll continue to work with community development on those applications and we'll report back to the council of theirs.

anything moves forward in that regard and then we did send several items to the council for consideration tonight and that concludes my report thank you council member brunson will you please deliver your report on traffic and aviation thanks mary our traffic and aviation has not met since the last council meeting i will get with the clerk on our next scheduled meeting and that concludes my report thank you council member holcomb will you please deliver your report on administration

Yes, Mayor, the Administration Committee met Tuesday, August the 11th on an appeal hearing for Misha Thomas. And the Administration Committee came back with an uphold for the termination of Ms. Thomas. And I move that we uphold the termination for Ms. Thomas. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that the termination of Ms. Mesa-Thomas be upheld. Any discussion?

I think we have to do a roll call. But I'm asking for a discussion first.

Any discussion? With no discussion, Madam Clerk, please call the roll.

Council Member Mayes. Council Member Holcomb.

Aye.

Council Member Brown. Aye. Council Member Lockett. Aye. Council Member Frazier. Abstain.

I wasn't here, so I don't know.

Council Member Brunson.

Aye.

Council Member Denton.

No.

Council Member Fields.

Aye.

Motion passes.

That concludes my report.

Thank you so much. Council Member Brown, will you please deliver your report on public safety?

Yes, Mayor. Public safety is not met. I had a meeting scheduled on the 5th, but we had some scheduling conflicts, and so we did not have a quorum that day, and so I will have to get with the clerk on a future date if needed.

Thank you so much.

Yes, ma'am.

Next, Councilmember Holcomb, will you please continue in our agenda on our proposed ordinances and resolutions?

An ordinance amending Orders No. 6882, respecting purchases not requiring bids and for related purposes up for the third and final reading.

An ordinance amending Orders No. 6882, respecting purchases not requiring bids and related purposes.

Move for adoption?

Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number one be adopted. Any discussion? With no discussion, all of those who wish to vote for item number one indicate by saying aye.

Aye.

Any opposed? Motion passes.

Did not have a number 2 in order meeting section 2 dash 161 of the code of ordinance of the city of time of Arkansas respecting the amount necessary to trigger the requirement of review committee for service contracts and for related purposes of the third and final reading.

An ordinance amending section 2-161 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, respecting the amount necessary to trigger the requirement of a review committee for service contracts and for related purposes.

Move for adoption.

Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number 2 be adopted. Any discussion? With no discussion, all of those who wish to vote for the adoption of item number 2 indicate by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes.

Agenda item number three, an ordinance amending section 1.2 of the Non-Uniform Employees Handbook and for Related Purposes, up for the second reading.

An ordinance amending section 1.2 of the Non-Uniform Employees Handbook and for Related Purposes.

Place it on the calendar. Agenda item number four, a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute an agreement with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to facilitate the expansion of the Bayou Bartholomew Trail.

Whereas the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas seeks to improve the recreational facilities and wishes to enter into the attached memorandum of agreement with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission in further of said purpose. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas that Section 1, the Mayor is authorized to enter into a memorandum of agreement between the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas and the Game and Fish Commission for the Bayou by Thornmule project as detailed in the attachment.

Move for adoption. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number four be adopted. Any discussion? With no further discussion, all of those who wish to vote for the adoption of item number four indicate by saying aye.

Aye.

Any opposed? Motion passes.

Gen item number five, a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute a property lease and maintenance agreements with property owners located along Bayou Bartholomew to improve public infrastructure as part of the Bayou Bartholomew restoration project, outdoor recreation project.

Whereas in resolution number 5062, the city council authorized the city to seek grant assistance from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism for development and improvement of outdoor recreational facilities. And whereas the city desires to develop outdoor recreation opportunities along the historic Bayou Bartholomew. and whereas it will be necessary to obtain the permission from the property owners whose property lies along the Bayou to construct, operate, maintain, and improve public infrastructure associated with the planned outdoor recreation facilities. Now, therefore, resolved by the City Council of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. The Mayor is authorized to sign the property lease and maintenance agreements with persons owning property along Bayou Bartholomew as part of the City's goal to develop outdoor recreation facilities for public use as required to comply with the grant requirements established by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. The Mayor is authorized to sign the needed documents to apply for secure and accept the grant funds for the project. The city pledges that it will perform its obligations as a grantee of funds as per the grant agreement.

Move for adoption.

Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number five be adopted. Any discussion?

I have a question.

Council member?

I don't have any issue with it. I just wanted to know, is there any contingency in place in case the property owners don't want to do an agreement? Would that hinder the project?

I'm sure that on some level it might hinder it, but we don't anticipate that being an issue. And there are so many other aspects and properties to it. We're not operating on that. But let me also defer to Madam City Attorney if she has anything to add.

I think there are four pieces of property that are being considered. There are four, and I think that the main property owner, we know that they're going to enter into the agreement.

Okay. I just wanted to know because I didn't want that to be a hindrance.

Thank you so much. Council Member Lockett?

Yes, Madam Mayor, do we plan to seek grants that would pay the lease and maintenance for these leased properties or will we pay them out to the general fund?

We're definitely seeking a grant through parks, state parks and tourism for this project and then Game and Fish will be responsible for a great deal of the operations for some of the properties and the city and the county will engage in a partnership for oversight of the actual outdoor parks area maintenance and security of the entire Bayou Bartholomew development. Any further discussion? With no further discussion, all of those who wish to vote for item number 5 indicate by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes.

Agenda item number 6, a resolution of the Pine Love City Council supporting the designation of the Arkansas Delta National Heritage Area.

Whereas the Arkansas Delta forms a unique and diverse region in Arkansas and encompasses nationally significant culture and history as well as spectacular natural, historical, cultural, scenic, and recreational resources that reflect a unique contribution to the collective American identity. And whereas the Arkansas Delta region is distinguished by its expansive flood plain shaped by the Mississippi River as its tributaries, its network of values and the prominent rise of Crowley's Ridge, as well as its transformation into one of the nation's most productive agricultural regions, its role in setting its role as setting for depression area reform, wartime mobilization, and civil rights history, and its influential musical traditions that reached audiences across the United States. And whereas the United States Congress has the authority to designate national heritage areas that encompass a region where natural, cultural, historic, and recreational resources combine to form a cohesive nationally distinctive landscape shaped by geography and cultural traditions. Whereas the Arkansas Delta National Heritage Area feasibility study was authorized by Arkansas State University and supported by the Delta Regional Authority and whereas Arkansas State University hired Point Heritage Development Consulting to evaluate the natural, historic, cultural, educational, and recreational resources and work with the Arkansas State University Heritage Sites Program to develop the feasibility study for the Arkansas Delta. And whereas the following counties are included in the national heritage area feasibility study arkansas chico clay craighead crittenden cross de shay drew green jefferson lee lincoln mississippi monroe phillips poinsett and saint francis counties and whereas the city of pine bluff possesses naturally nationally and regionally significant cultural, historic, natural, and recreational assets, including historic downtown Pine Bluff, the Arkansas Railroad Museum, the Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, Lake Saracen, the Delta Rivers Nature Center, all of which contribute to the heritage of the Arkansas Delta and support the goals of the Arkansas Delta National Heritage Area Feasibility Study. Whereas the City of Pine Bluff established the National Heritage Trails Task Force to document and promote the Pine Bluff Jefferson County inclusion on local, state, regional, and national heritage trails and areas. Whereas, The City of Pine Bluff supports the establishment of the Delta Rhythm and Bayou's Highway and Arkansas Delta Music Travel Corridor, and whereas Pine Bluff is the origin point of Bayou Bartholomew, the world's longest bayou, and supports the development of outdoor heritage recreation, and whereas the City of Pine Bluff has recently opened the Delta Rhythm and Bayou's Blues and Wellness Plaza as the largest outdoor gallery dedicated to Delta music and culture in the nation once completed. And whereas Pine Bluff is home to the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, a historically black college and university, and the second oldest land grant university in the state, which is and houses enormous Arkansas Delta culture and heritage relevance and assets. Whereas the Arkansas State University Heritage Sites Program has worked tirelessly with the counties, various regional organizations, municipal governments, regional schools and state agencies to preserve our culture and historic assets and enhance outdoor recreational and educational opportunities in the area and has the desire and will act as the coordinating entity to pursue a national heritage area designation under the national park service Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, that the Pine Bluff City Council supports the development of the feasibility study and the designation of the Arkansas Delta National Heritage Area. Move for adoption. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number six be adopted. Any discussion? Council Member Lockett?

I think this is a historic occasion for us to be part of something such, and I'd like to encourage all my council members to co-sponsor this with me. No problem.

Okay, sounds like everyone would like to be added. And in his absence, I have a feeling that Councilmember Mays would also like to be added. We can maybe give him a call. Okay. Any further discussion? With no further discussion, all of those who wish to vote for the adoption of item number six indicate by saying aye.

Aye.

Any opposed? Motion passes.

Agenda item number seven, a resolution amending the 2026 municipal budget to allocate funds within the police department for purchase of fuel.

Whereas city ordinance requires that an adjustment to the municipal budget be memorialized by ordinance or resolution depending upon which form was used to approve the annual budget. And whereas 2026 municipal budget was adopted by resolution and whereas it is necessary to make amendment to 2026 municipal budget to reallocate funds for the purchase of fuel by the police department as detailed in the attached budget adjustment. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Section 1, the attached budget adjustment has been reviewed by the Council and is approved. The particulars thereof as detailed are incorporated herein as if fully set forth word for word and number for number. The funds to cover adjustments are identified by the source and amount in the document. Section 2, that the 2026 municipal budget adopted is amended to incorporate the adjustment as and change as set out in the attachment section three, the finance department will ensure that the budget is implemented as amended. Move for adoption. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number seven be adopted. Any discussion? Question. Council Member Frazier?

I don't have no issue with it, but on the explanation, it says $160,000 taken from salaries and vehicle fuel, $150,000, and then $10,000 for training. But in the resolution, it just says fuel and not fuel and training.

No, it says it on both. All you mean in the resolution?

I'm saying on the resolution itself, it's just saying for fuel, so it can be misleading. Because on here, it says fuel and training. It's $150,000 for fuel and $10,000 going to training, which is no problem, but we just need to make sure that the resolution says it.

It's correct, yes.

What line is that, Council Member?

No, she's saying in the title itself. Let's see.

But is it correct in the language?

13 and 14, that would be the place. 14, for the purchase of fuel by the police department, I guess fuel and training.

So we want to add training. I make the amendment that we correct the title and the language within the resolution to say purchase of fuel for training purposes.

And that would be on lines 8 and 14? Mm-hmm.

I second that.

It's been moved and seconded that the aforementioned amendments be made to reflect, to add training to the title and to the body of the resolution on lines 8 and 14. Any discussion? With no discussion, all of those who vote for the amendment indicate by saying aye.

Aye.

Any opposed? Motion passes.

Move to adopt as amended. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number seven be adopted as amended. Any discussion? With no discussion, all of those who wish to vote for item number seven as amended indicate by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes.

Agenda item number 8, a resolution amending the 2026 municipal budget to allocate funds within the street department.

Whereas city ordinance requires that an adjustment to the municipal budget be memorialized by ordinance or resolution depending upon which form was used to approve the annual budget, and whereas the 2026 municipal budget was adopted by resolution, and whereas it is necessary to make amendment to the 2026 municipal budget to reallocate funds for the purchases by the street department as detailed in the attached budget adjustment. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Section 1, the attached budget adjustment has been reviewed by the City Council and is approved. The particulars thereof as detailed are incorporated herein as if fully set forth word for word and number for number. The funds to cover adjustments are identified by source.

Am I saying aye? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes.

Agenda item number nine, a resolution, amending resolution number 4936 to correct a property listing.

whereas on tax books as delinquent taxes and collected as such. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, that the resolution number 4936 that was passed on September 15, 2025 is amended as set forth below. The Code Enforcement Department will cause this resolution to be filed in the deed and lien of records of Jefferson County, Arkansas, and mail a copy to the last known address of the property owner. Move for adoption. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number nine be adopted. Any discussion? With no discussion, all of those who wish to vote for the adoption of item number nine indicate by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes.

Agenda item number 10, a resolution providing for placement of costs or correcting certain nuisance on tax books as a link with taxes and collected as such.

Whereas ACA 1454903. Move for adoption. Second.

It's been moved and seconded that item number 10 be adopted. Any discussion? With no discussion, all those who wish to vote for the adoption of item number 10 indicate by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes. Okay, we will. I will read off our announcements and then adjourn, and then we will hear from two residents who wish to relay public comments on non-agenda items. And before I read off the announcements, I did want to Acknowledge one thing that I neglected to share when we should also know and remember that the same organization honored our zoning official. Lakeisha Hill, will you please stand? Last year, yes. She is a recipient of the floodplain manager that this organization recognized last year. So this isn't our first rodeo being recognized by this organization. And I think we're doing great work. So let's keep it up. Thank you. Okay. Announcements for August 17, 2026. The first item is Catfish Friday Blues and Soul Night featuring Sing a Beat. Friday, August 28, 2026 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the UAPB Business Incubator at 615 South Main Street. We are asked to join the community for Catfish Friday Blues and Soul Night featuring singer B to enjoy an evening of catfish live music and fellowship with the Pine Bluff community. Second item. Joe will be performing live at Saracen Casino Resort on Friday, September 4th, I think that's Labor Day weekend, at 8 PM at Saracen Casino Resort, 1 Saracen Resort Drive. R&B singer Joe will bring his signature vocals and timeless hits to Saracen Event Center for an evening of smooth R&B and soulful performances. Tickets start at $49 plus applicable fees and are available through Ticketmaster. And finally, the Pine Bluff Glow Up is about to glow up. Saturday, October 3rd, 2026, we will engage a citywide cleanup. The city of Pine Bluff, through the office of Mayor Vivian L. Flowers, is partnering with Sea Art College and Clean and Beautiful for the Pine Bluff Glow Up, a citywide cleanup initiative. taking place in every single ward. Residents, businesses, churches, civic groups, organizations, and community leaders are encouraged to participate as we beautify our neighborhoods and prepare for UAPB homecoming. The day will conclude with a community celebration at Regional Park. To participate or organize a team, call the office of the mayor at 870-730-2000, extension 7, or visit www.pinebluffglowup.com. And now we will adjourn after I will entertain a motion and second. Second. It's been moved and seconded that we adjourn. And with no objections, we are hereby adjourned. And I would like to ask Mr. Jordan Sims to come to the podium so that he can speak on his update on leadership and convention center presented by a commissioner of the convention center, I'm sorry, the Civic Auditorium Complex Commission.

Can everybody hear me?

Yes.

Okay. All right. So hello, my name is Jordan Sims. I am the vice chair of the CACC. I wanted to come today to talk about the leadership and the progress of the Pine Bluff Convention Center. pertaining to the transformation of the Convention Center. So first off, when we're talking about leadership and purpose, Ms. Dunn's leadership philosophy, her accountability, wanting to do teamwork, also transparency, responsibility when it comes to the FISC, and the commitment to the community. When we talk about where we started, different operational challenges, aging infrastructure, age-backed concerns, financial priorities, staffing needs, and the need to strengthen the Convention Center's image. Now, the progress since August 2024, when Ms. Barbara Dunn coming into office in that year, stronger operations, increased bookings. We talk about certain events that's been going on at the convention center. Almost every weekend it seems like it's always something going on as well as even events that may have left from the convention center in past years are now returning because of the leadership and things that is going on at the convention center. We also want to talk about improving internal procedures, expanding marketing. The website is amazing. When you go on there, you see what has happened in past events. You understand what the Convention Center is here for. And when you go on there, you're able to get everything you need to know what it is that you need to do to get in contact with the Convention Center or whatnot. So also, I want to talk about facility improvements. So we're talking about the AsiaVax slash chiller working, the LED lighting upgrades. And then there's other ongoing maintenance and efforts that is going to improve the overall guest experience for the convention center. Growth in events and bookings. So we have future bookings extended into 2027 and 2028. And we also are building relationships with organizations such as UAPB, CEARC, and other community partners. We also recently celebrated the 50 years of the Convention Center, which was an amazing event when we're talking about learning history, a place where it was nice. Barbara Dunn coming in and wanting to reach out to a lot of different community partners as well as community businesses to come in to the convention center and showcase their food and their business. That was also a great part. When we talk about that being that hub where people come and showcase their businesses for the community to see. That happened on that night outside of us celebrating the 50 years of the Convention Center. Partnership and community impacts. Ms. Dunn, she loves the fact that she's in a city that We're wanting to collab, right? And so that's what she want to do. The commissioners, she's always collabing with us and asking us for input. Other businesses, sponsors. You know, when we talk about the 50-year anniversary, there were a lot of great sponsors that came in to help that happen. That is just because of the work that she is putting in to build those partnerships. Um, financial stewardship and accountability. Um, when we're talking about a leader that is having responsible management of resources, um, a stronger financial oversight audits, you know, something that is very important that needs to happen that has been happening, budgeting policies and, um, the improve of operational controls. So also we have the team behind the progress. Ms. Dunn, she always talks about the team. She cannot just do everything by herself. I know right now with us we have Mr. Ben and Ms. Regina and Mr. Eric. All our... exceptional employees for the Convention Center. And when it comes to their roles and responsibilities, I know they do exactly what they supposed to do and go beyond for not only Ms. Dunn, but they're knowing that they're pouring into a center that's pouring into the community of Pine Bluff. And so the vision ahead, continue to modernization, increase regional events, stronger revenue generation, tourism growth, strategic partnerships, and positioning Pine Bluff Convention Center as a premier destination. In closing, the progress of the Pine Bluff Convention Center is about more than improving a building. It is about restoring pride, strengthening partnerships, creating economic opportunities, and demonstrating what is possible when leadership, teamwork, and community come together with a shared vision. We have made tremendous progress, but we are not finished. The best is yet to come for the Pine Bluff Convention Center and the city of Pine Bluff. Thank you.

Now, Commissioner Sims, I think it was less than a year ago that you were appointed to this commission, and now you are vice chair and making presentations.

Yes, ma'am.

It looks like there's been a little bit of growth in your camp as well.

Yes, ma'am.

Thank you. first thing I want to do is ask if any council members have any questions, comments.

I do.

Uh, council member Denton.

I would like to commend this nine and her team for the hard work that you've done.

Um, okay. Thank you so much.

Alrighty. Thank y'all.

Um, Yeah, the only thing that I'll add, I'll point out that it was this council in my office that made the decision to dedicate dollars to support the convention center because of the hard work of Ms. Dunn and her team. And we do, I think, see the progress and see the need to make sure that the improvements and the upgrades for the infrastructure within the convention center be paid proper attention to. And so we're glad that that's getting done. And with that, thank you again. And I will ask for the last resident making public comments on non-agenda items. And that's Mr. James Hill, who would like to speak to the council about trying to get awareness signs out in the community.

Good evening, mayor and city council member. Before I start with bringing forth the awareness sign, I want to thank the director because I've seen a lot of improvement in our community. The street department director, a lot of dishes was cut and it looked real nice over there. And I applaud you and we applaud you for making sure them issues were taken care of. Tonight, I come before y'all. It's simple. Awareness. And I learned this a long time ago. I was in the city. I was doing my thing. And I read a sign. And it had a sign saying that if you do this over here, if we catch you, you will go to jail. So I told my guy, we can't go to that city right now. We never know what or who was looking. But God gave me this vision right here. I've been putting this. on the north side for the last four years doing homecoming. And being a gatekeeper over there, the signs say, God gave me this vision, say, safe haven community, north side, keep away your violence, murders, robbing, burglary, theft. Keep away your bad intentions from our youth and our elders. You will go to jail over here. Mitchell and University on opposite sides, I post all these signs in these areas, these type of signs right here. A couple of them, a lot of them got stolen. On Reinheim Road and Myrtle, right there on University, where the sign said it wasn't coming in Pine Bluff. And the other sign I posted, it was right there on University and Pullen. But signs like this will help. you know, show people that's having bad intentions coming in our community that you will go to jail here. We're not playing by our youth. We're not playing by our elders. I thank God we don't have no crack house over there to my knowledge. Our youth ain't in their jail. Ain't no guns in their hand. Ain't nobody pushing no drugs to them. Our elders, they come out and they walk. And then not only that, we have UAPB campus over there. and we have students from all over, but we need signs like this. So I wonder if public safety or community development or whoever's in charge, Ohio, this can take place where we can get some signs like this posted in our community.

Thank you so much, Reverend Hill. Any comments, any questions? The only thing that I would say is I think on the state highway is not where we would be able to place those signs. But I think that it's a great idea. And I would suggest just, I mean, I'd look at it like a campaign. And I think that if that's something that you would like to see local businesses, residents kind of highlight, I think that that would get the message out. probably better than putting it even on a state highway. That's my suggestion.

So would I have to go to the state on that level, or what other level?

Well, there's certain criteria for state signage, and I mean, you could go, but I think that that would operate outside of the parameters that they have set forth. If you'll notice, Even during campaign season for political campaigns, you don't see any signs like that just along the highway. And when people do put them up, they take them down, and we have to go get them.

Yeah, I don't put them up doing political. I normally do the homecoming thing.

But there are those kinds of signs. You might see some on the corner. on private property, but you're not gonna see the state say, yeah, you can put your signs up.

Okay, so how can I get the city help put signs up on private property that's not in state?

Well, on private property, we can't make people put your signs on the private property. I think that that, but the same way, and I'm drawing the analogy for political campaigns because there's a certain period of time within which When there's a candidate or a campaign for an issue that's going to be on the ballot, you put signs out after a certain time. And then after the campaign is over, you have to get your signs within a certain period of time. And it is up to that campaign. to go to individuals and say, can I put my sign in your yard? Can I put my sign in front of your business? Some people say yes, some people say no, but you have to ask that. Now, you see what I'm saying?

Yeah, I think these are signs I'm talking about. You know how they got them signs around the city, juvenile, curfew signs like that? Them the type of signs I'm trying to get the city to put in our community.

Right, but juvenile curfew signs is gonna be based upon local and state laws, and so that's different than, because if we start partnering with one private organization or community effort, How many signs do we have to start putting up when people say, hey, wait, what about what we're trying to do? So that's why there are certain rules and regulations, certain standards for the state as well as the municipality to put up the sign that, for example, the street department makes and then they put them up.

Yeah.

Okay. So I think your best bet are your private property owners, businesses, and residents. And I'll say this, Reverend Hill. You all are doing such magnificent work in the community. I don't imagine people are going to say, a whole bunch of people are going to say no. But that is your best bet, because you have parameters around our ordinances and state law, rules and regulations that dictate what kind of signage you can put up and what you can't, especially along the scenic highway. That's why you don't see a lot of billboards, except outside of certain areas. So it's pretty highly regulated. Okay. But while you're here, and I know we're already adjourned, if I could see the two of you right afterwards.

Okay, yes, ma'am.

Okay, all right.

All right, thank you.

Okay, thank you, everybody.