The Warren City Council met Monday, November 10, at 5:30 p.m. with all members present. Following approval of the October meeting minutes, the council approved the monthly financial statement.
Mayor Gregg Reep reported that city sales tax revenue for October increased slightly. He reminded residents that detailed financial information is available to the public upon request.
The council approved the annual street closure request for the Warren Christmas Parade, scheduled for December 6 at 7 p.m.
Although there were no public speakers during the meeting, the council received a written complaint from a citizen regarding stray cats within the city limits. The matter was referred to the police committee for further review.
In departmental reports, Police Chief Shaun Hildreth said staffing levels are improving, with one officer set to graduate from the academy on November 21 and another scheduled to begin training in January 2026.
Fire Chief Chuck Moore reported a busy month for the fire department, which handled multiple fire and extrication calls while also completing First Aid recertifications. Moore said a new volunteer firefighter has joined the department, leaving one vacancy remaining on the volunteer team.
Sanitation Director Rob Johnson said his department currently has two openings. Mayor Reep noted that bids from proposed trash collection companies are due by November 20. Johnson also confirmed that all city-issued trash cans have been distributed to households with water service.
Reep urged residents to stop placing cardboard in their garbage, reminding the public that cardboard should be dropped off at one of the two local recycling sites. Those with large quantities may call the sanitation department to schedule pickup.
In the Building Department report, Johnson said two properties on the city’s condemnation list remain out of compliance, and further action is being taken.
The Parks and Recreation report noted that the Warren Shooting Range recorded 133 visits in October.
The Ways and Means Committee discussed the proposed 2026 city budget, with plans to adopt it at the December meeting. The council also approved Bidding and Purchasing Ordinance No. 974, which increases the mayor’s spending authority for city purchases from $3,500 to $25,000 to account for inflation. The council approved 2025 Christmas bonuses and holiday pay for city employees and voted to renew vehicle insurance through the Arkansas Municipal League.
In board and commission business, the council reappointed two members to existing commissions and approved the appointment of Matt Young to a five-year term on the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Under new business, a proposed revision of the city’s zoning codes was referred to the Community and Economic Development Committee for review.
In announcements, it was noted that a dedication ceremony for new downtown trees donated in memory of John B. Frazer, III will be held Wednesday, November 26, at 11 a.m. in front of Warren Bank at the corner of Cypress and Main streets. The public is invited to attend.
The Municipal Building will be closed November 27–28 for Thanksgiving. There will be no trash collection on Thanksgiving Day, but service will resume the following day.
The Christmas parade will be held Saturday, December 6, at 7 p.m. The Municipal Building will also be closed December 24–25 for the Christmas holidays. Trash collection will occur on Christmas Eve but not on Christmas Day.
After approving payment of the October bills, the meeting was adjourned. The next Warren City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 8, at 5:30 p.m.
