Resolutions were passed at the Warren City Council honoring the late Sam Fullerton and his late wife, Tomme “Fufa” Fullerton, and the late Coach Don Whittemore. Their families were present to accept the resolutions.
The resolution for the late Sam Fullerton was read aloud by Warren Mayor Gregg Reep. The resolution honored his commitment and service to the community. It stated his accomplishments and work he’s done for the community.
“We appreciate the service and commitment he made to the community. He will be missed,” said Alderwoman Dorothy Henderson.
The resolution honoring the late Tomme Fullerton was read by Mayor Reep. It also honored her work and commitment to the community. Her accomplishments and the work she did was listed.
Their family accepted the resolution and said both of them loved the community.
Alderman Joel Tolefree and Alderwoman Henderson both reflected on the positive impact she had on them and the community.
The resolution for the late Coach Whittemore was also read with his family present. The resolution honored his life and devotion to his family, those he loved, and the community. Coach Whittemore won 151 games in his coaching career and he retired in 2016. His wife, Cecelia Whittemore, thanked everyone.
The city council approved the street closures for the Pink Tomato Festival. The same streets will be closed as the previous year.
The Community and Economic Development Committee would review the memorandum of understanding with Warren Water and Sewer. The Ways and Means Committee would review and discuss the pay increase for the assistant city clerk and treasurer.
A resident of McCauley Street spoke before the council about properties near her that were overgrown and becoming a mess.
Archie Domineck also spoke before the council asking for updates on repavement on Clover Street. Alderwoman Emily Moseley said the street committee was in the process of choosing streets to be repaved.
Warren Police Chief Shaun Hildreth reported the police department had a new hire who was in the process of completing the police training. The training is a 13-week course. Chief Hildreth said the police officers were working a lot of overtime due to shortage of staff.
Warren Fire Chief Chuck Moore reported the fire department responded to 11 calls in March. The city council and the fire committee approved new policy changes for department live fire training, department station coverage, and non-emergency rules. There was also a pay increase approved $40 for volunteer captains and $30 for volunteer lieutenants. The previous pay was $15 per call.
Sanitation Manager and Building Official reported the sanitation trucks were out for repairs and the workers were getting trash out of dumpsters by hand until the vehicles get returned. The company that handles city waste raised their rates from $65 to $80 a ton. Mayor Reep discussed looking into the new recycling facility being constructed near Lake Village when it’s completed to save money.
Johnson reported letters were sent to property owners with inoperable vehicles in yard. He said they did the final plumbing inspection at the new elementary school.
Street Foreman Monty Hearnsberger reported they were digging out ditches and cleaning gutters. Streets were being measured. The city council approved an ordinance that banned burning trash, leaves, or any other combustible items in city ditches.
The Warren Cultural Center was addressed. Mayor Reep reported the building was not a safety hazard, according to the structural engineers. However, much work is needed. Warren resident David King submitted a letter to the city offering to help raise money for the much-needed repairs at the cultural center.
A business on Myrtle Street requested for signs to be put up at his business allowing two designated parking spots for his customers.
Herman Phillips and Nick Mann were both nominated and approved to be on the planning commission board.
The next city council meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, May 8. The city council meeting will be located at the Warren Municipal Building courtroom. The monthly meeting is open to the public.
