April 18, 2012 Edition

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Hoxie to create park

Leslie Ginn
Staff Writer

The Hoxie City Council approved the designation of abandoned property at 108 Northeast Fourth Street for the purpose of creating a community park.

The Arkansas Land Commissioner offered the property to Hoxie under the stipulation that the property is never sold. The city must maintain the park as proposed or else the Land Commission will reassume ownership.

Prior to the April 10 council meeting, Tinker visited with most of the residents in the area. All approved the community park concept.

"The property presently consists of two big lots and a broken down house, as well as rats, snakes and pests," Mayor Lanny Tinker said. "We can make much better use of this property for residents."

The budget, regarding the recent switch to the NEA Water Authority, was reviewed. Developments over the last four months showed a positive trend. The Sewer Department budget, however, is down $4,000 because of repairing disintegrating infrastructure. The mayor is looking for funds through grants or loans to cover cost of repair for the sewer.

A meeting to update city zoning and planning is being scheduled with Urban Planning Associated, Inc. of Little Rock. The public is welcome to attend and can call City Hall for the date and time.

Hoxie Police Chief Glen Smith and Fire Chief Mark VanBrook were recognized for their efforts in the emergency rescue search for four-year-old Caleb Linn. Linn died in a tributary of the Spring River on March 24, 2012.

Tinker also reviewed several items as reminders for local residents:

The Swimming Pool ordinance is in effect as of June 1, 2012. All those who own a pool that contains 12 or more inches of water must have a minimum of an enclosed fence and permit. (See ordinance for other regulations.) Permits are $5 and need to be purchased from city hall.
The Hoxie spring cleanup continues through April 20. Yard waste will not be collected but is to be safely burned by residents.
Property must be maintained by owners/renters or the city will issue notices, liens or fines if property becomes unsightly. (See the April 2012 Mayor's Report at City Hall for further details.)

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