Alexander 2021 revenue exceeds estimate; Council approves 2022 budget

Revenue for the City of Alexander’s General Fund exceeded expectations this year with a total of $2,400,774.00. When the 2021 budget was approved in December 2020 estimated revenue to the General Fund was $2,058,483.00.

While most of the revenue for the general fund is from sales taxes, other sources include personal and real estate property taxes, franchise fees, permits, privilege licenses (business licenses), and a share of the state’s sales tax.

Total expenses for the General Fund in 2021 topped out at $1,925,288.90, above the original estimate of $1,616,628.00. That still leaves a surplus of $475,485.10.

The expenses total includes two one-cent city sales taxes that are deposited into the General Fund and distributed to the fire department, police department and parks and recreation department. The sales taxes were approved by voters in two separate elections with the stipulation as to how the taxes would be used. That total for 2021 is $1,057,662.00.

A third one-cent city sales tax was approved by voters in 2017 for the General Fund. The total for that tax in 2021 is $528,831.00.

The 2022 budget, approved by the city council at its Monday, December 20 meeting, estimates a slight increase of revenue in the General Fund of $2,494,960.49, compared to 2021’s final total of $2,400,774.00. Total General Fund expenses are estimated at $2,004,224.70.

For the most part, revenue for the various departments goes into the General Fund first and then is distributed to the other funds. The city’s share of the state fuel tax, however, is deposited directly into the street fund by the state. The 2022 budget estimates that amount at $294,430.64. That would bring total estimated revenue for the city in 2022 at $2,789,391.13.

A breakdown of final 2021 revenue and expenses and estimated revenue and expenses in the 2022 budget by department:

Police Department

2021

Revenue - $821,029.32; Expenses - $633,259.76:

2022

Revenue - $854,691.52; Expenses - $659,223.41:

Fire Department

2021

Revenue - $659,449.00; Expenses - $573,142.00:

2022

Revenue - $828,350.00; Expenses - $657,997.00:

Street Department

2021

Revenue - $282,834.43; Expenses - $281,626.00:

2022

Revenue - $294,430.64; Expenses - $293,172.67:

Parks and Recreation

2021

Revenue - $359,550.16; Expenses - $141,235.00:

2022

Revenue - $374,291.72; Expenses - $147,004.82:

Ever since ownership of some of the park land has come into dispute, improvements to the city park have been halted causing the increase in the budget surplus. Mayor Paul Mitchell says he doesn’t want to spend any more tax dollars on the park, aside from maintenance, until this issue is resolved.

In 2022, payroll for all departments, city hall employees and elected officials is estimated at $1,554,840.00.

Also at the December 20 meeting;

Some Alexander employees to receive Premium Pay from American Rescue Plan

The Alexander Council approved a resolution granting, “Premium pay for certain municipal employees from the American Rescue Plan.” The resolution states the American Rescue Plan Act ( ARPA) was signed into law March 11, 2021 to provide, “[F]iscal relief funds to state and local governments and other program areas aimed at mitigating the continuing effects of the pandemic.”

The stimulus grant funds allow cities, “[T]he option to provide Premium Pay for eligible employees in order to provide additional support to those who have and will bear the greatest health risks because of their service in critical infrastructure sectors,” the resolution states.

According to the resolution a total of $33,868.80 will be distributed to city employees who meet the following ARPA criteria. 1) An eligible worker is anyone, “[N]ecessary to maintain the continuity of operations of essential critical infrastructures;” 2) “Including any additional sectors added by the city’s chief executive,” and 3) “An eligible worker performing eligible work which means regular in-person interaction or regular physical handling of items that were handled by others.”

ARPA criteria also specifies payments will be made to current employees only not to exceed $1,800.00. Payments will be based on the amount of eligible hours worked at $13 an hour up to a maximum of 140 hours worked from March through November 2020.

After the resolution was approved, Mayor Paul Mitchell received permission from council members to give employees who do not qualify for the Premium Pay a $150 bonus. Checks are expected to be distributed before Christmas.

Redistricting ordinance gets first reading

An ordinance to redraw the lines of Alexander’s four wards was given its first public reading. Due to the lack of six council members the second and third readings could not be suspended. State law requires the presence of two-thirds of the council to fast-track an ordinance. There were only four council members present with the mayor making the fifth needed for a quorum.

The wards had to be redrawn after the results of the 2020 Census were reported. By law, the population of wards must be within five-percent, plus or minus, of each other. Under the current ward boundaries wards one and two are too high and wards three and four are too low. (See map of redrawn wards below.)

Citizens Advisory Committee formed

In his report to the city council, Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck told council members a Citizens Advisory Committee has been formed. Three residents of Meadow’s Edge attended the commissions December 14 meeting and volunteered for the committee. They are Gene Derline, Angela Griffin and Lorinda Peoples.

Huck said after the meeting he received an E-mail from Walter Burgess who has also volunteered to serve. Burgess owns and operates Power Technology, located on Highway 111 just north of Cornerstone Road. Burgess lives in Bryant.

The planning commission will still accept other volunteers if anyone is interested.

The purpose of the advisory committee is to aid the planning commission in writing a new Master Development Plan. A public survey has already been taken as part of the process. The planning commission is waiting for the city council to decide when a public hearing can be held to explain the results of the survey and collect more public input.

Planning Commission Officers unchanged

Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck reported on the results of the commission’s annual administrative meeting held Monday morning, December 20. All three officers have retained their current positions. Huck was elected chairman, Stephanie Beck was elected vice-chairman and Tonya Prowse was elected secretary.

Looking for a home

Pastor Kenneth Littlejohn of Abundant Grace Christian Church, in Mabelvale, is looking for a location in Alexander to house its outreach program. During the Public Comment portion of the meeting Pastor Littlejohn asked council members for help in finding a location in Alexander where his church can establish a permanent location for the outreach program. He said he will consider either a vacant building or property where a building could be built. Anyone with information can contact him at (501) 366-0350.

Pastor Littlejohn and Mayor Paul Mitchell led a Prayer
Walk in October, 2017 through the Pulaski County
portion of Alexander.

Next meeting on fourth Monday

Due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday falling on the third Monday in January, the next regular meeting of the Alexander City Council will be held on the fourth Monday, January 24 at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex (City Hall). The public is invited to attend.

2022 Budget, Premium Pay Relief Funds, Redistricting Ordinance on Alexander’s Monday agenda

The Alexander City Council has three main items on the agenda for tonight’s meeting. Listed under New Business is the 2022 Budget and Premium Pay Relief Funds. The Premium Pay Relief Funds are part of the Covid Relief package passed by Congress. The city’s attorney has been researching how the money can be spent. A preliminary version of the 2022 Budget was given to council members for review at the November meeting

Under Unfinished Business is the Redistricting Ordinance. The ordinance will put into place a new ward map, once it’s approved. The wards had to be redrawn to allow for the increase in population based on the 2020 census.

The Alexander City Council’s December meeting is scheduled for tonight (December 20) at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at city hall. The public is invited to attend.

Alexander Planning Commission appoints three to Advisory Committee; Administrative meeting set for Monday

Three Alexander residents have been appointed to serve on the Citizens Advisory Committee. The committee has been established to aid planning commission members in writing a new Master Development Plan for the city.

In a voice vote, planning commission members approved appointing the three volunteers to the newly formed committee. They are Gene Derline, Angela Griffin and Lorinda Peoples; all from Meadow’s Edge.

This does not end the search for committee members. Planning commissioners agreed anyone still interested in joining the Citizens Advisory Committee will be a welcome addition.

Also at the December 14 meeting, planning commission members chose December 20 as the date for their annual administrative meeting. The meeting is held to allow commission members to elect officers and approve the by-laws for the next calendar year.

The meeting will be held at 10:00 AM in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex. The public is invited to attend.

Citizens Advisory Committee still on Alexander Planning Commission agenda

The City of Alexander Planning Commission is still asking for volunteers to join the Citizens Advisory Committee. It is once again listed on the agenda for the next meeting. The planning commission has been asking for potential volunteers to attend a meeting, but so far, no one has shown any interest.

The purpose of the committee is to aid the commission in writing a new master development plan. Committee members will be the eyes and ears of the planning commission and provide opinions and suggestions from outside the planning commission members.

The plan will be used as a guide for future development in the city based on the opinions and desires of residents. The current development plan was approved in 1982.

The regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 14, 6:30 PM at the courtroom in the Alexander Municipal Complex along Highway 111. The public is invited to attend.

Big Red Grand Opening a success

Between the pleasant and comfortable sunny November weather and the substantial number of people in attendance, the word “Success” describes the outcome of Thursday (November 18) morning’s Grand Opening of the Big Red in Alexander. Located at the corner of Highway 111 and Cornerstone Road, just south of I-30, the Big Red has actually been open since Friday, November 12.

The Alexander Big Red is one of over 40 in Central Arkansas. They are owned and operated by brothers David and Doug Hendrix under the name Summerwood Partners.

While most everyone may think of Baskin Robbins or McDonalds when hearing or seeing the name Big Red, the Alexander Big Red is referred to as a “Coffee House.” The store has a variety of coffees, hot and iced, along with the usual fountain drinks.

Guests, staff and other dignitaries gathered outside for the official ribbon 

cutting. Behind the two young men cutting the ribbon are City of 

Alexander Mayor Paul Mitchell (left) and Arkansas State Treasurer 

Dennis Milligan (right). Milligan is not only State Treasurer, but he 

owned the land where the Big Red now sits.

Besides the usual Valero price sign, the Alexander Big Red 

has a billboard advertising the “Coffee House” with 

available space for rent.

During the Grand Opening radio station 107.3, The Buzz, 

was broadcasting its morning show, “The Show With 

No Name.”

Shelves are stocked with the necessities for travel and an 

unplanned purchase for home.

The “Fountain” and “Coffee” corner has a variety of drinks 

available; hot and cold.

Big Red Grand Opening Thursday, Zoning Ordinance approved

After only three months of construction, the Big Red gas station and convenience store is open for business. At the November 15 council meeting, Alexander Mayor Paul Mitchell announced that the grand opening is scheduled for 9:00 AM on Thursday (November 18). The Big Red is located on the north corner of the Cornerstone Road and Hwy 111 intersection.

It was at the August 16 council meeting Mitchell was given the authority to make all final decisions concerning the construction of the Big Red in order to “expedite” the project. The design phase began in January, but for some unknown reason developers needed to bypass the normal process of architectural drawings being approved by the planning commission and the city council in order to stay on schedule.

This gives Alexander three gas stations/convenience stores; Hess, on E. First Street, and Mobil, along I-30 being the other two. A fourth will be opening soon. A Circle K is nearing completion at the corner of N. Alexander Road and Highway 5. According to Mitchell the only part of the construction remaining is connecting to the Little Rock sewer line on the other side of Highway 5.

A zoning ordinance designating a 1.73-acre piece of property, owned by My ample Storage, from Open Space/Recreational to Highway Commercial was given its third public reading and approved by the city council. My Ample Storage is located along Highway 5, west of the intersection with North Alexander Road. The property was annexed into the city in 2018.

It’s unusual for an ordinance to need three meetings to get final approval, but circumstances seem to be against this particular ordinance. Normally, the council would vote to suspend the required second and third readings and move to final approval at the same meeting. That, however, requires a “yes” vote of two-thirds of the council; in this case six. This is the third meeting only five council members were present, the minimum needed for a quorum.

Because of the planned widening of Highway 5, My Ample Storage is having to move some of its storage facilities away from the highway. The amount of property needed for the widening will require the removal of My Ample Storage’s brick wall along Highway 5, some storage units and the office.

Also, during the November 15 meeting;

Firing range approved

Alexander police officers will no longer need permission to get target practice, or qualify using a weapon. The council approved allowing the police department to set up a recently purchased shooting trailer on property owned by Alexander Police Chief Robert Burnett.

According to Mayor Paul Mitchell the trailer includes both drop down and rotating targets plus a silhouette of someone running as a moving target. It was purchased from Federal Surplus for $3,500 and includes a generator and air compressor to power the targets.

Mitchell explained to council members the main problem the department has with using the shooting ranges in Saline County is scheduling and cost. One is south of Bauxite High School and can’t be open during the day or when there are games. The other is costing the city around $1,000 per year to use. And now, the FBI and training academy has it booked-up. Having a city operated firing range will allow officers to train any time.

New K-9 Officer hired

Mayor Mitchell announced the hiring of a new K-9 officer, Josh Lavrinc. Mitchell said Lavrinc is qualified as both a K-9 officer and trainer.

Ordinance to redraw ward boundaries under review

Council members were provided a copy of the proposed ordinance that will redraw the boundary lines of the city’s four wards. The mayor asked them to review the ordinance for the December council meeting.

Based on the 2020 Census each ward should have 846 residents, plus or minus five-percent. Two of the wards have too many residents and two not enough.

The map provided with the ordinance was drawn by Metroplan and keeps two existing council members in each ward. The only difference is Council Member Juanita Wilson will move from Ward-2 to Ward-4 and Council Member Lonny Chapman will move from Ward-4 to Ward-2. All other council members will continue to represent their current wards.

Meadow’s Edge Phase-3 blackout near an end

For about a year now residents of Phase-3 in Meadow’s Edge have been asking why they don’t have street lights. Phases one, two and four have lights, but not three.

Before Alexander’s latest subdivision began construction Mayor Paul Mitchell told the developers to include street lights. Phases one and two received the lights, but as Phase-3 was ending there was a notable lack of lights. It was that glaring omission that guaranteed Phase-4 would have street lights. Phase-4 recently saw its last house go up.

Mitchell told council members he was contacted by the project’s engineer Joe White who said the street lights will be in by November 30. Also, Mitchell said White is speaking to the developer, Walter Woodward, about installing street signs for phases three and four.

Will the fire department break another record?

Alexander Fire and Rescue could be on its way to breaking another record. Fire Chief Mark Ridgeway reminded council members the department responded to a record-breaking 754 calls in 2020. He said the department has already made 745 calls this year.

The next regular meeting of the Alexander City Council is Monday, December 20 at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex. The public is invited to attend.

Third reading of zoning ordinance expected Monday night

The Alexander City Council is expected to hear the third and final reading of a zoning ordinance for property owned by My Ample Storage. The business is located along Highway 5. The nearly two-acres of land will be rezoned from Open Space/Recreational to Highway Commercial. At the September and October meetings there were only enough council members present to form a quorum, but not enough to approve the ordinance in one meeting.

Also on the agenda for the council’s Monday, November 15 meeting; under New Business, “Discuss the City assisting Police Chief R. Burnett in the development of firing range.” Under Announcements; “New Big Red open for business,” “New K9 Officer Josh Lavrinc,” “Review ordinance for redistricting,” “Purchase of shooting trailer,” and “Review proposed 2021 final budget and proposed 2022 budget.”

The council meeting will be held at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex. The public is invited to attend.

Survey says!

The results for a survey, conducted by the Alexander Planning Commission to help write the new Master Development Plan, are in. While there is a variety of opinions on various topics, the main focus seems to be on two issues; the streets need a variety of improvements, and Highway 111 has problems.

The goal of the survey was to determine residents’ views as to how the city should develop and what improvements are needed. The answers are part of the process to write a new Master Development Plan that is expected to guide city leaders through Alexander’s next period of growth, which has already begun. The current plan was written in 1982.

The survey report organized the responses into various categories. The first category is “Development Priorities.”

Question-1: “What would you do first to improve Alexander?” gave “Attract businesses” top priority at 19%. “Maintain streets” and “Increase code enforcement” tied at 16%; followed by “More activity/entertainment options” at 9%. “Revitalize downtown,” “Policing/crime prevention” and “Increase physical activity” tied at 8%. “Attract new residents” and “Improve drainage” tied at 4% followed by “Increase housing options” 2% and “Other” 6%.

While the first ten answers were choices provided by the survey, the category “Other” allowed for written additional options. They are “Animal control (2), Get to know people from the City, Basketball courts, Mandatory trash service,” and “Realign & widen Hwy. 111.”

Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck gave a brief report on the survey results at the city council’s October 18 meeting. He encouraged everyone to read the report to get into the finer details.

Huck said council members may notice that many of the responses fall into one of two categories. Either, “We’re already doing that,” or “Highway 111 has problems.”

Under, “We’re already doing that,” Huck noted the comments were mostly about paving streets and cleaning ditches. Beginning in 2017 Alexander has been taking advantage of a state grant program used to pave city streets. Also, the city has been buying equipment that’s being used to clean ditches and improve flood areas such as Brookwood Road. Huck noted it’s possible the residents requesting paved streets live on streets that haven’t been part of the repaving program yet.

As for Highway 111, Huck said survey comments covered ideas such as a center left-turn lane, a bridge across the railroad tracks, sidewalks, and less curves. Huck told council members when Metroplan officials gave their report on the survey to the planning commission, they were told Metroplan can work with the Arkansas Department of Transportation to conduct a study of Highway 111 to determine it’s needs and what improvements can be made.

Question-2: “How would you like to see Alexander grow and develop in the future?”

At 20% the top answer was “More recreational facilities” followed by “Encourage development in city center” 19%, “More parks/trails/open space” 18%, “Encourage walkable, mixed-use areas” 14%, “Encourage neighborhood-scale commercial” 12%, “Continue current development patterns” 6%, “Make more land available for industry” 5%, and “Integrate small-scale apartments” 3%.

Again, these were answers provided by the survey. In the category of “Other” 3% of the respondents wrote, “Clean up & enforce city codes, Remove HDC (Human Development Center) & build apartments,” and “Sidewalks on Hwy. 111.”

Question-3: “Which housing types do you prefer for Alexander?”

Of the three answers to choose from the number one answer at 43% is, “A variety of housing types to accommodate different housing preferences (such as senior housing, patio homes, duplexes, town homes).” Number two is, “Housing consisting predominately of single-family subdivisions” at 31% and “Continue current development patterns” at 24%. In the category of “Other” the responses were, “newer mobile homes and senior apartments with pool & gym.”

Question-4: “Which parks and recreation amenities does Alexander need the most?”

The top answer at 16% is, “Paved multi-use trails.” Coming in at 15%, “Neighborhood parks/playgrounds” followed by “Splash pad” at 11%, “Fishing pond” and “Outdoor pool” both at 10%, “Natural areas/hiking trails” and “Parks complexes/playing fields” both at 8%, “Indoor event space” and “Indoor recreation facilities” at 7%, and “Indoor pool” at 4%. Under the category of “Other” answers given are, “Signage to draw people into Alexander,” “Basketball courts,” and “City needs resources for large projects.”

The remaining eight questions fall into the category of “Transportation.” They cover areas such as how to improve streets and intersections to modes of transportation other than the automobile.

Not numbered in the report, respondents were asked to sort nine listed “Transportation Priorities” from most important to least important. The results were;

1: ”Build complete streets that are compatible with walking, biking, and transit;”

2: “Repair existing roads;”

3: “Build a railroad overpass;”

4: “Widen roads to increase capacity for motorists;”

5: “Build more pedestrian and bicycle facilities;”

6: “Improve the road network to provide alternate routes;”

7: “Improve construction standards for new roads;”

8: “Reduce traffic congestion;” and

9: “Provide public transportation.”

Question-5 “Which Alexander roadways are in most need of improvement?”

This was an open-ended question asking for original commentary. Of course the number one answer was Highway 111 at 31%. Alexander Rd. came in second at 17% followed by Brookwood Rd. and “Ranchette” (doesn’t say which one) both at 6%, and “Azalea” at 4%. The remaining streets all registered at 2%; Main St., Charles, 4^th, Don Parker, Hilltop, Hilldale, Cornerstone, Midland, Northlake, Holly, Mountain Dr., Reynolds, I-30, Interstate ramps on & off frontage roads, St. Joseph's Glen, Lindsey, and “All streets.”

Hilldale, Midland, Northlake, and Reynolds are not in the City of Alexander. Except for Autumn Cove and the end of Magnolia Glen Dr. near Autumn Cove, the remaining streets in St. Joseph's Glen are the responsibility of the home owners association, not the city.

Question-6 was a two-part question: “Which roadway intersections in Alexander need safety improvements?” and “What types of improvements would you recommend?”

Intersections listed were, “Don Parker & Brookwood (needs 3-way stop or stop sign on Don Parker w/ through street on Brookwood)” 29%; “Highway 111 & Alexander Rd.” 21%; “Highway 111” 11%; “W. Azalea & S. Alexander” 11%; “Meadow's Edge subdivision (needs stop signs inside subdivision; poor visibility when entering/exiting onto Hwy 111)” 11%; “Railroad crossing downtown (needs overpass)” 7%; “All roads” 7%; “Railroad crossing at Brookwood & Shobe” 4%; and “Bryant Parkway” 4%.

Because Meadow’s Edge is still considered under development street signs are the responsibility of the developer. A request to take over responsibility of the streets and subdivision has not been submitted to the city. Bryant Parkway is not in Alexander.

Questions seven and eight were “Yes” or “No” questions.

Question-7: “Is your day-to-day travel significantly delayed by train traffic at the railroad crossing?”

Yes 70%, No 30%.

Question-8: “Should the City emphasize making Alexander more walkable by encouraging pedestrian-friendly development throughout the City?”

Yes 86%, No 14%.

Question-9: “Which roads need sidewalks the most?”

Once again Highway 111 comes in on top at 42% followed by Alexander Rd. 20%, Azalea 11%, All 7%, Meadow's Edge subdivision 7%, Downtown 4%, None 4%, Brookside 2%, and Ranchette 2%. Brookside is not in Alexander.

Question-10: “Are there destinations that you would like to be able to walk or bike to, but choose not to do so because of safety concerns?”

Apparently, the most popular destination within the city is Alexander City Park at 30% followed by Dollar General 22%, Post office 17%, No/not now/not applicable 13%, Hess 4%, Along Highway 111 4%, Alcoa 40 Park 4%, and Mills Park 4%. Alcoa 40 Park and Mills Park are in Bryant.

Additional comments included, “All of Alexander has safety concerns, Roads are too curvy and narrow to walk along, Need sidewalks on narrow streets, You can't walk or bike any where safely, There is no safe place to walk in South Alexander, I would like to walk (to) the park from my house but cars and trucks like to go by fast on the road and not very safe, Hwy 111 to Dollar General needs bicycle and pedestrian facilities, No commercial or recreational sites to walk to, Loose dogs attack people when walking, I choose not to walk because of stray dogs, Loose animals are an issue,” and “A lot of deer.”

Question-11: “What other suggestions do you have for improving transportation in Alexander?”

The written responses were organized into five categories. The answers have not been edited and are as written.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

• “Enforce traffic laws - speed, tailgating, automobiles on side of streets (nonoperational, obstructing roadway).”

• “Enforce stop signs and speed limits.”

• “Some sort of speed trap through the neighborhoods.”

• “More stop signs, less yield signs.”

• “Improve the I-30 access so we don't have to turn left off Alexander Road to go east on the service road and I-30.”

RAILROAD

• “Bridges over railroad tracks.”

• “Fix the train issues like stopping on tracks for a long period of time.”

• “2 overpasses over the train tracks at S. Alexander Road and Brookwood Rd.”

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

• “Have buses come along.”

• “There is no city transportation. We need to start some.”

HIGHWAY 111

• “Widen Hwy. 111.”

• “Straighten out some of that big S curve on 111.”

• “Straighten the curves on Hwy 111 between the church and Meadow View subdivision.”

• “Realign Alexander Rd. to straighten out the S curves and improve major intersections to accommodate turning of larger commercial vehicles. Add shoulders and/or a center turn lane down Alexander Road.”

• “Figure out a way to make Hwy. 111 not so curvy and dangerous. It has high traffic, large drops into ditches, and can be unsafe with semis and construction trucks constantly traveling along it.”

OTHER

• “Connection for bike trails to Bryant/LR trail system is recommended. Not a full network of trails.”

• “Roundabout at the intersection of Brookwood/Don Parker instead of 2 yield signs.”

• “Too much Shannon Hills traffic coming through Alexander.”

• “Need more deer signs.”

According to the report a total of 60 surveys were submitted; 55 online and five using the paper version. The highest percentages of respondents were in the adult population; middle to high income earners; White, Black, and Asian ethnicity; and female. A lesser percentage of the respondents were in the youth population, lower income ranges, Hispanic/Latino ethnicity, and male.

Where the respondents live was also included in the report. Most of the respondents live either between downtown and South Alexander (38%) or in South Alexander (34%). Respondents living south of I-30 or outside Alexander, but have an Alexander address, came in at 9%. Those living either north of I-30 or in downtown were 4% of the respondents. The remaining 2% do not live in Alexander.

The next step is to have a public meeting with residents to discuss the survey and ways to achieve the various goals. That is expected to occur sometime in early 2022.

Alexander Council chooses new ward boundaries

With only two options to choose from, the Alexander City Council selected the least disruptive choice for the new ward boundary lines. Labeled “Alternative 2” this option keeps two existing council members in each ward. However, two of the council members will be in different wards.

During his monthly report to the council, Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck presented council members with two options. While the wards in “Alternative 1” meet the population goal it leaves Ward-2 with one existing council member and gives Ward-3 three council members. “Alternative 2” provides two existing council members per ward, but Ward-2 Council Member Juanita Wilson will now be in Ward-4 and Ward-4 Council Member Lonny Chapman will be in Ward-2.

The new ward maps were drawn by Metroplan based on the 2020 census. With the city’s new population number of 3,385, up from the 2010 count of 2,901, the goal is to have 846 residents per ward plus or minus five-percent. That allows for a range of 804 to 888 residents per ward. According to the census Ward-1 currently has 1,001 residents, Ward-2 has 1,214, Ward-3 has 570, and Ward-4 has an even 600 residents.

The new ward map also solves a problem with the current ward map and Kelli Place. The current map was established after the annexation of Woodland Hills in 2006. Unbeknownst to many at the time, when the map was drawn Alexander and Little Rock were in disagreement as to the location of the city boundary line that crosses Kelli Place. In 2006 about one-third of the east end of Kelli Pl. was in Little Rock, not Alexander. Before the 2010 census the line was established at the end of Kelli Place. The change is reflected in the new ward map.

The ordinance that will establish the new ward boundaries is being reviewed by the city attorney. The map will be altered as an attachment to the ordinance and is expected to be on the council’s November agenda.

In other actions at the October 18 meeting;

Zoning ordinance gets second reading

A zoning ordinance to rezone property, owned by My Ample Storage, met the same fate as it did at the September meeting. It was given its second public reading and must now wait for the council’s November meeting for final approval. The ordinance will change the zoning designation of a 1.73-acre piece of property, located along Highway 5, from Open Space/Recreational to Highway Commercial.

At the September meeting the council would have normally voted to suspend the required second and third readings and move to final approval at the same meeting. That, however, requires a “yes” vote of two-thirds of the council; in this case six. There were only five council members present.

The same issue occurred at the October 18 meeting. Only five council members were present. A motion was made and seconded to read the ordinance by title. That is allowed providing there has been at least one full reading of an ordinance.

Council approves purchase of asphalt roller and salt spreaders

Council members approved the purchase of a 1985 Dresser Asphalt Roller for the street department. The roller was sold by auction through the Department of Commerce Governmental Affairs in North Little Rock. The city was the high-bidder at $5,715.00. With taxes and other charges the final cost is $7,040.16. At the request of Mayor Paul Mitchell the council appropriated $8,000.00 to cover other incidentals such as adding city decals to the roller.

Mitchell said he will be coming back one more time this year to get permission to buy two salt and sand spreaders before winter. He said the current spreaders are in no condition to be used another winter and can’t be repaired. Council members decided to appropriate $10,000.00 for the future purchase of salt and sand spreaders.

Alexander joins opioid lawsuit

The Alexander Council voted to join the State of Arkansas in two opioid lawsuits. One is with McKesson, Cardinal Health, and AmerisourceBergen (“the distributors”) and the other is against Johnson & Johnson.

According to a letter sent by the Arkansas Municipal League, “With the preliminary work done, we are moving to the next step—which is signing-on to these two settlements expected to bring roughly $220 million to Arkansas over the next several years. The State, the counties, and the cities and towns will collectively strategize and decide how best to utilize these settlement dollars to make the greatest impact in ending this horrible epidemic.”

The next regular meeting of the Alexander City Council is Monday, November 15 at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex. The public is invited to attend.

Alexander Planning Commission to hear report on development survey; Public invited to join advisory group

The Alexander Planning Commission will be provided the results of a public survey taken as part of the writing of a new Master Development Plan. The survey was conducted in September, both online and provided as a paper option.

The purpose of the survey was to gather opinions on a variety of topics, which could be of concern as to how the city develops both now and in the future. Answers to the questions were either multiple-choice or open-ended.

According to the planning commission’s agenda for its October 12 meeting, the report will be given by Metroplan representatives. Metroplan is a quasi-governmental organization involved in the development of Central Arkansas.

Also on the agenda is the meeting of volunteers for a Citizens Advisory Group. The group will serve as a link between the public and the planning commission.

“The opinions and advice provided by advisory group members will be vital in the writing of the Master Development Plan,” says Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck. “We are still accepting volunteers to join the group.”

Huck says anyone interested in joining, or curious about what will be involved as a member of the advisory group, should attend the October 12 meeting. The planning commission meeting will be held at 6:30 PM in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex (City Hall). The public is invited to attend.

Alexander officials want a piece of your mind

If you’ve ever wanted to tell someone from the city what you think, now’s your chance. Everyone has until September 30 to express their opinion about the City of Alexander.

The Alexander Planning Commission is in the process of writing a new Master Development Plan. You are being asked to answer questions in a survey that will help guide the planning commission and city council in writing the growth plan. The Master Development Plan will aide city officials as to how Alexander can be improved now and provide a vision of the city’s future needs. The current development plan dates back to 1982.

As of Friday, September 24, 52 surveys have been submitted online. Only two or three paper versions have been turned in to city hall.

The survey includes questions such as; How would you like to see Alexander grow and develop in the future?, Should the city emphasize making Alexander more walkable by encouraging pedestrian-friendly development throughout the city?, Which housing types do you prefer for Alexander?, and Which parks and recreation amenities does Alexander need the most?. This is only a sample of the 12 questions concerning Alexander. There is also a section of questions to help describe the person answering the survey and where they live in Alexander.

All of this information will be compiled by statisticians at Metroplan. Based on the answers, a preliminary development plan will be written. Planning commission members may get their first look at survey results during the October planning commission meeting.

The planning commission will schedule a public hearing to discuss the results of the survey with city residents and present the preliminary plan. Those attending the hearing will have the opportunity to discuss the meaning of the results and provide input into amending the proposed preliminary plan. Metroplan staff will take that information and alter the plan where needed.

Everyone who lives in or near Alexander are invited to complete the survey. It can be found online in both English and Spanish. The two links to the online survey are provided below.

English: https://metroplan1.surveysparrow.com/s/City-of-Alexander-Community-Preference-Survey/tt-1f6819

Spanish: https://metroplan1.surveysparrow.com/s/Encuesta-de-Preferencias-para-la-Comunidad-de-la-Ciudad-de-Alexander-/tt-8dc659

These links are also available on the city’s website. Just go to cityofalexander.com. The links are on the home page.

If you know someone who doesn’t use the internet they can obtain a paper version at city hall; Monday-Friday, 8:00AM to 4:30PM. Both online and paper surveys must be submitted by the end of the day Thursday, September 30.

Volunteers for Citizens Advisory Group still needed
The planning commission is still in the process of forming a, “Citizen Advisory Group.” The advisory group, working with the planning commission, will take part in developing the master plan based on their interpretation of the survey results and their normal daily contact with the public.

Anyone who wishes to volunteer for the Citizen Advisory Group should contact either the mayor or planning commission chairman. Mayor Paul Mitchell’s email address is mayor@cityofalexander.com. You can contact Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck at pcchair@cityofalexander.com. Or, you can phone city hall (501-455-2585) and speak to either the mayor or leave contact information to volunteer for the advisory group.

Alexander wards to be redrawn

(COMMODITIES UPDATED: 8:23 PM 09/22/2021)

(PHOTO UPDATED: 12:12 PM 09/23/2021)

The Alexander city council approved having the four wards redrawn to bring their populations more in balance, based on the 2020 Census. The approval came at the request of Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck.

During his monthly report at the council’s September 20 meeting, Huck walked council members through the math. Based on the city’s new population number of 3,385, there should be approximately 846 residents per ward.

“We are allowed plus or minus five-percent,” Huck said. “That’s 804 to 888 residents.”

According to totals provided by Metroplan Ward-1 has 1,001 residents, Ward-2 has 1,214, Ward-3 has 570, and Ward-4 has an even 600 residents.

That’s not the only issue with the ward map, which was established after the annexation of Woodland Hills in 2006. Huck explained when the map was drawn the city and Little Rock were in disagreement as to the location of the city boundary line that crosses Kelli Place. At the time, it put about one-third of the street out of Alexander and in Little Rock.

Huck said by the time of the 2010 Census the line was moved to the end of Kelli Place, but there was never any mention of needing to redraw the boundary for Ward-1. He said the Saline County map still shows Ward-1 cutting through Kelli Place.

The new map will be drawn by Metroplan. The council will have to pass an ordinance to establish the new wards before the 2022 elections.

Also at the September 20 council meeting;

Zoning ordinance gets first reading

A zoning ordinance that will designate a 1.73-acre piece of property, owned by My ample Storage, from Open Space/Recreational to Highway Commercial was given its first public reading. Normally, the council would vote to suspend the required second and third readings and move to final approval at the same meeting. That, however, requires a “yes” vote of two-thirds of the council; in this case six. There were only five council members present.

In presenting the ordinance to the council, Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck explained how the commission had called a special meeting for August 24 to vote on recommending the zoning change. A vote on the request was to take place at the commission’s regular August 10 meeting following a public hearing. The public hearing was held but the meeting was canceled due to the lack of a quorum.

Huck suggested a special meeting be scheduled if six council members can attend. He said the owner of My Ample Storage is ready to build new storage units but needs the zoning change to get the building permit.

The property was annexed into the city in 2018. My Ample Storage is located along Highway 5, west of the intersection with North Alexander Road.

Council approves purchase of telehandler

The city council approved the appropriation of $9,000.00 towards the purchase of a telehandler. And, despite what the name implies, it has nothing to do with answering the phone.

Telehandler purchased by Alexander Street Department.

According to Mayor Paul Mitchell the military surplus telehandler will be used by the street department to move heavy objects like concrete pipes. He told council members the telehandler has about 90 hours of use. The actual cost is less than the requested $9,000.00, but the mayor couldn’t remember the exact price and the street superintendent wasn’t at the meeting.

Commodities distributed in Alexander falling short of need

During the Public Comments section of the agenda, Ollie Litt told council members about the state of commodity distribution in Alexander. Litt is with the Ambassadors For Christ Ministry near Otter Creek, which distributes commodities to “about 58 to 60 people” at the First Baptist Church in Alexander.

She said the distributions from the commodities program have gone from every two months to every three months. And, the food being provided only lasts about two weeks. She also said there was a six or seven month period when no commodities were available.

Litt said she’s working with the Farmers to Families organization to help fill the gaps in available food. However, the last distribution was only able to provide, “a third of a bag for each family, four items.”

She said without help from another source there won’t be a distribution before Thanksgiving. The next delivery of commodities is scheduled for December 9.

Litt said the organization, with the help of her Bible Study group in Alexander, has already raised $340. She said the plan is to be able to provide a Thanksgiving meal for everyone receiving commodities.

They would like to pack the bags November 19 and distribute them on the 20^th, but they need volunteers. The time for both days is 9:00AM to Noon.

Anyone wishing to volunteer, or donate, can contact Cheryl at city hall at 501-455-2585; Monday- Friday 8:00-4:30.

Zoning ordinance on Alexander agenda

The Alexander City Council will be presented an ordinance to zone property owned by My Ample Storage at its regular monthly meeting Monday evening. The request is to rezone a 1.73-acre piece of property from Open Space/Recreational to Highway Commercial. The property was annexed into the city in 2018. My Ample Storage is located along Highway 5, west of the intersection with North Alexander Road.

The council meeting is Monday, September 20 at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at city hall. The public is invited to attend.

City of Alexander wants your opinion

City of Alexander residents are being asked to answer questions in a survey that will help guide the planning commission and city council in writing a growth plan. The Master Development Plan is expected to help guide current and future city officials as to how the city develops during the next 20 years, or more. The city’s current development plan dates back to 1982.

The survey can be found online in both English and Spanish. Here are the links to the online survey:

English: https://metroplan1.surveysparrow.com/s/City-of-Alexander-Community-Preference-Survey/tt-1f6819

Spanish: https://metroplan1.surveysparrow.com/s/Encuesta-de-Preferencias-para-la-Comunidad-de-la-Ciudad-de-Alexander-/tt-8dc659

As stated on the website, concerning the Master Development Plan, “This plan will serve as a vision and will include priorities contributed by Alexander residents.”

The survey includes questions such as; How would you like to see Alexander grow and develop in the future?, Should the city emphasize making Alexander more walkable by encouraging pedestrian-friendly development throughout the city?, Which housing types do you prefer for Alexander?, and Which parks and recreation amenities does Alexander need the most?. This is only a sample of the 12 questions concerning Alexander. There is also a section of questions to help describe the person answering the survey and where they live in Alexander.

All of this information will be compiled by statisticians at Metroplan. Based on the answers, a preliminary development plan will be written.

The planning commission will schedule a public hearing to discuss the results of the survey with city residents and present the preliminary plan. Residents will then have the opportunity to discuss the meaning of the results and provide input into the proposed preliminary plan. Metroplan staff will take that information and amend the development plan where needed.

The planning commission is still in the process of forming a, “Citizen Advisory Group.” The Advisory Group, working with the planning commission, will take part in developing the master plan based on their interpretation of the survey results and “public outreach.” There will be at least one, possibly more, meetings for the general public to express their desires for the future development of Alexander.

Anyone who wishes to volunteer for the Citizen Advisory Group should contact either the mayor or planning commission chairman. Mayor Paul Mitchell’s email address is mayor@cityofalexander.com. You can contact Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck at pcchair@cityofalexander.com. Or, you can phone city hall (501-455-2585) and speak to either the mayor or leave contact information to volunteer for the advisory group.

Guidelines, suggested by Metroplan, as to the makeup of the advisory group should, “Aim for diversity in age, sex, race, and ethnicity.”

Providing that information when submitting your application will allow the planning commission to insure a wide mix of city residents.

2020 Census shows 16.7% growth in Alexander

The 2020 Census results are out and they show an additional 484 residents have moved into the City of Alexander since the 2010 Census. Alexander’s population has grown from 2,901 in 2010 to 3,385.

The 484 new residents represents a growth rate of 16.7%. The increase is not due to any annexations, as it did in 2010, and does not include any homes built in the new Meadow’s Edge Subdivision since the census was taken. As a comparison, the entire population of Bauxite in 2010 was 487.

Alexander is located in both Pulaski and Saline counties. Based on percentage of growth Pulaski County grew by 4.3% from 2010 to 2020, whereas Saline County grew by 15.2%. Three of Alexander’s four wards are in Saline County.

Compared to the other cities in Saline County, when it comes to percentage of growth, Alexander is fourth from the top. Shannon Hills grew the most at 42.9%, from 3,143 in 2010 to 4,490 in 2020 (up 1,347). Bauxite is second with a growth rate of 29.2%, from 487 to 629 (up 142). Bryant and Hot Springs Village are in a statistical tie for third at 23.8% each. Bryant went from a population of 16,688 to 20,663 (up 3,975). Hot Springs Village grew from 12,807 to 15,861 (up 3,054). Then Alexander at 16.7%. Fifth is Benton at 14.1%, growing from 30,681 to 35,014 (up 4,333). Both Haskell and Traskwood showed negative growth. At sixth Haskell went from 3,990 to 3,956 (down 34).

Of the 3,385 population, Alexander’s racial breakdown is reported as follows; White Alone 1,396 (41.24%), Black Alone 694 (20.50%), Native Alone 68 (2.0%), Asian Alone 28 (0.82%), Pacific Islander Alone 0 (0%), Other Alone 853 (25.19%), Hispanic Latino 1,272 (37.57%), and Non-Hispanic Latino 2,113 (62.42%). Compared to Saline County as a whole, Alexander’s ethnic breakdown does not follow that of the county. Saline County’s diversity breaks down as follows; White Alone 90.53%, Black Alone 4.66%, Asian Alone 0.87%, Other Alone 3.93%, Hispanic/Latino 3.81%, and Non-Hispanic Latino 88.96%. The county census report did not include Native Alone and Pacific Islander Alone.

Other categories reported include age and housing units. Of those living in Alexander 2,113, or 68.62%, are over the age of 18. In the category of Housing Units 1,185 are listed as occupied, while only 82 are unoccupied.

Alexander Planning Commission schedules Special Meeting for Tuesday

The Alexander Planning Commission has scheduled a Special Meeting to vote on a zoning request from My Ample Storage. A vote on the request was to take place at the commission’s regular August 10 meeting following a public hearing. The public hearing was held but the meeting was canceled due to the lack of a quorum.

The request asks to rezone approximately 1.73 acres of land from Open Space/Recreational to Highway Commercial. The property was annexed into the city in 2018. My Ample Storage is located along Highway 5 west of the intersection of Highway 5 and North Alexander Road.

Other items listed on the agenda include, “Metroplan request for survey information” and a, “Verizon Cell Tower.”

The Special Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 24, 6:30PM to be held in the courtroom at the Alexander Municipal Complex (City Hall). The public is invited to attend.

How much of the Alexander City Park does Alexander already own?

After a report given by Alexander City Attorney Lana Fraser, it is going to take a land surveyor to determine the location of the city park’s boundaries and how much of it is already owned by the city. Based on a warranty deed issued to the city in 2004 and a quitclaim deed issued in 2016 Fraser says it appears the 2004 deed has more acreage than the 2016 deed.

Currently, the city park is made up of two parcels of land. The western parcel makes up about three-fourths of the park and was deeded to the city by Douglas W. Loftin Jr. and his wife Cindy Loftin in 2004. It was also deeded to the city by the Arkansas Land Commissioner for unpaid taxes in 2016.

According to the Saline County Assessor’s Office the smaller eastern portion is owned by David W. Jacks. Saline County records show the Loftins sold the eastern portion to Jacks in the year 2000.

“It’s quite possible you may have a color of title,” Fraser said. “The Loftins could by accident deeded both to Mr. Jacks and the city the same little spec of land.”

This discovery was brought about while researching a solution to a property dispute between the city and Jacks. The eastern end of the park is the location of the gazebo and water fountain. Based on the Saline County property map this parcel starts at Highway 111 and ends between the last two rows of the parking lot. The remaining three-fourths of the park follows Crooked Creek and ends at the city boundaries to the west.

The city had been mowing the grass on the eastern parcel for many years. As far as anyone knew it was city property. The improvements made to that area were done from 2015 to around 2019.

That’s when Jacks contacted Mayor Paul Mitchell asking about the now completed improvements on his property. According to Mitchell he tried to negotiate a resolution with Jacks but they were all basically one-sided, due to Jacks’ refusal to respond to any offers. Mitchell had even hired a real estate lawyer to no avail.

The previous city attorney was attempting to negotiate a purchase of the property before she resigned her position. Fraser believes Eminent Domain is the more viable option.

Her research has also uncovered documents that show Jacks had lost ownership of the property twice due to non-payment of property taxes. He then regained ownership twice after paying restitution on the overdue taxes.

“It’s understandable you thought it was city property,” she said.

Fraser was given permission to hire a surveyor to determine the true location of the boundary lines and to do a title search. Surveying the property, based on the 2004 warranty deed, and conducting a title search will provide the city a legal starting point.

Also at the August 16 meeting:

City property tax remains at 1.5-cents

The Alexander City Council approved the annual resolution establishing the city’s real estate and property tax rate for the next taxing year. The tax rate will remain at 1.5-cents. What would normally be a tax rate of 5-cents was gradually reduced in exchange for a one-cent sale tax increase, which was approved by voters in November 2017.

Planning Commission report:

No vote on zoning ordinance needed

Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck told council members they won’t be voting on a zoning ordinance at this meeting. Huck said the zoning hearing for My Ample Storage was held prior to the commission’s regular meeting on August 10. No one from the public attended the hearing, either for or against, the request for a zoning change to Highway Commercial for a 1.73-acre piece of property annexed into the city in 2018. My Ample Storage is located along Highway 5 west of the intersection with North Alexander Road.

Since there were only two commission members present, Huck and commission secretary Tonya Prowse, Huck said they did not have a quorum to hold the follow-up planning commission meeting. A quorum is three.

At that meeting the commission would have voted on the recommendation to send the zoning request to the city council for final approval. Huck added he had the city attorney pre-approve the ordinance in expectation of having it on the agenda for the council’s August meeting. He said he will attempt to schedule a special meeting of the planning commission, hopefully for August 24.

Having the quorum wouldn’t have done any good, however, since there were only four council members present at the city’s August 16 meeting. Attending the meeting were Joe Pollard, Joy Gray, Juanita Wilson, and Lonny Chapman. Mayor Paul Mitchell served as the quorum and was required to vote on all motions.

The mayor could have done a first reading of the ordinance, but that would have been all he could do. It’s required an ordinance be read at three separate meetings. To override the second and third reading requires a two-thirds vote of the council. In this case at least six council members would have had to be present. It also requires a two-thirds vote to pass an emergency clause to allow an ordinance to go into effect immediately. A mayor cannot vote as part of the two-thirds. Either way, the next chance to vote on the ordinance would have been the council’s September meeting.

Verizon cell tower coming to Alexander

In the next two years a Verizon cell tower should be going up in Alexander if the site recommendation makes it through the communications company’s own approval process. Huck says he was contacted by a representative who says they found three acceptable sites in the city. The A-choice is in the woods at the end of Mountain Circle. Mountain Circle intersects with Mountain Drive which is possibly the highest point in Alexander.

Huck noted the property is zoned AG-1 (Agriculture) and transmission towers are allowed under conditional use. He said once Verizon approves the site they will have to go through the Conditional Use Permit process.

Survey preliminary version released

Council members received the preliminary version of a survey, written by Metroplan, to review before it is distributed to city residents. Surveying residents is the next step in the writing of a master development plan.

Council member Joe Pollard was impressed with the comprehensive nature of the questions.

“It will be a big help to the city,” Pollard said of the survey.

Once Metroplan puts the survey into a final form the process of distributing and collecting will have to be organized. Once that is completed Metroplan statisticians will tally up the results based on survey answers.

Mayor given sole control of BigRed project

At the request of Mayor Paul Mitchell, the city council gave Mitchell approval to make all final decisions concerning the construction of a BigRed on the north corner of Cornerstone Road and Hwy 111 in order to “expedite” the project. This means the normal process of architectural drawings being approved by the planning commission and then the city council giving final approval will be bypassed.

At this year’s January 25 council meeting Mitchell told council members he met with the engineer assigned to build the BigRed. He said they have calculated the property’s dimensions and are in the design phase of the project. Even though the property is zoned for that type of business, it was understood at the time the design will still have to come before the planning commission with final approval from the city council. So far no plans have been brought to the commission.

“I don’t want to aggravate these people and have them move someplace more friendly,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell asked for, “The authority and the power, from the council, to make sure it gets done, gets expedited.”

He says they can have it built in two-and-a-half months.

Joy Gray made the motion and Lonny Chapman seconded.

Planning Commission Chairman Michael Huck then asked if the commission was being bypassed.

“We’re not holding things up because they haven’t brought us anything,” he said.

“The city council has the final authority on that (whether projects get approved),” Mitchell said. “If anything comes up we want to make sure I can solve the issue.”

All four council members and the mayor voted to approve the motion.

Next Meeting

The next meeting of the Alexander City Council is Monday, September 20 at 6:00 PM in the courtroom at city hall. The public is invited to attend.