Wednesday, December 17, 2008

City Council Meeting - Dec. 22, 7 PM MONDAY

Sherwood City Council
December 22, 2008, 7:00 P.M.

Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting on November 24, 2008, and the called meeting on December 10, 2008, as transcribed.

Presentation to David Henry for service to the City of Sherwood.

Reports of Department Heads
Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman
a) An ordinance amending the Land Use Map for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman) (Read two (2) times October and November 2008)
b) An ordinance amending the Master Street Plan for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman) (Read two (2) times October and November 2008)
c) An ordinance amending the Zoning Map for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman) (Read two (2) times October and November 2008)
Senior Citizen Committee – Inez Hall, Chairman
Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
a) A resolution accepting the recommendation of the Sherwood Wastewater Utility Committee and authorizing the entering of a contract between the City of Sherwood and Crist Engineers, Inc. for engineering consulting service. (Mayor Hillman)
b) A resolution authorizing the purchase of land contiguous to the Sherwood North Treatment Facility and necessary to wastewater utility operations. (Mayor Hillman)
Street Committee- Alderman Fender, Chairman

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a General Fund Budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time November 2008)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a Street Department Budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time November 2008)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a Wastewater Budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time November 2008)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a Sherwood Police Department Local Drug Fund budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of an Advertising and Promotion Commission budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance amending the 2008 General Fund budget Ordinance No. 1760 and the 2008 Street Fund budget Ordinance No. 1761; declaring an emergency and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution appointing Rodney Freeman, replacing Ray Harrison, to the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustments. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance adopting for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, the 2007 edition of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code; compromised of Volume 1-Fire, Volume 2-Building, and Volume 3-Residential; as amended, repealing conflicting ordinances. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance adopting for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, the 2006 Arkansas Plumbing Code, as amended, repealing conflicting ordinances. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance adopting for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, the 2006 Arkansas Fuel Gas Code, as amended, repealing conflicting ordinances. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance adopting for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, the 2008 edition of the NFPA National Electric Code, as amended, repealing conflicting ordinances. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution acknowledging review of assessments for Pulaski Fire Protection District No. 5, the Sherwood Fire Department.

An ordinance accepting the petitioned land annexation approved on appeal to the Arkansas Supreme Court. (Mayor Hillman)

Old Business
New Business
Announcements
Adjournment

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Budget Meeting Friday, 11/21 2PM

CITY OF SHERWOOD
BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING
MAYOR’S OFFICE
2199 EAST KIEHL AVE.
SHERWOOD
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2008 2:00 P.M.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

City Council 11/24 (Monday) 7 PM

Sherwood City Council
November 24, 2008, 7:00 P.M.

Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting on October 27, 2008, as transcribed.

Reports of Department Heads
Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman
a) An ordinance amending the Land Use Map for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time October 2008)
b) An ordinance amending the Master Street Plan for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time October 2008)
c) An ordinance amending the Zoning Map for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time October 2008)
d) Planned Residential Development for Bayou Meto Commons
Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
Street Committee- Alderman Fender, Chairman

A resolution finding the structure located on parcel #22S-002-00-258-00, commonly known as 8908 Teetwood Road, to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution finding the structure located on parcel #22R-021-00-081-01, commonly known as 311 King Place to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution appointing Clint Bell to the Sewer Committee, replacing Norman Ladd. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a General Fund Budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a Street Department Budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance providing for the adoption of a Wastewater Budget for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, for the twelve month period beginning January 1, 2009, and ending December 31, 2009; appropriating money for each and every item of expenditure therein provided for; declaring an emergency; and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance appropriating funds for the purchase of land for the expansion and improvement of city sewer services, declaring an emergency and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance appropriating funds for a one time bonus to Sherwood Employees based upon length of service, declaring an emergency, and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution re-appointing Karen Bryant to the Advertising and Promotions Commission. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance waiving the requirement of competitive bidding and appropriating money for the remodeling and upgrade of the radio dispatch room in the Police Department; declaring an emergency. (Mayor Hillman)

Old Business
New Business
Announcements
· John Swanson, MEMS 2008 annual report
· Enchanted Forest Trail of Lights, December 1-30th 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reception from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. on December 1st and lights turned on at 6:00 p.m.
· Festival of Lights, North Hills Park, December 4th
· Children’s Christmas Party, Friday, December 5th Duran Youth Center, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
· Christmas Parade, Sunday, December 7, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.
· Breakfast with Santa, Saturday, December 13th, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Sherwood Forest

Adjournment

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Maps - Gravel Ridge Annexation

Discussion on changes to Sherwood's Zoning Map, Land Use Map, and Master Street Plan for the Gravel Ridge Annexation areas resulted in the ordinance being read only one time Monday night. The draft maps may be viewed at: http://www.cityofsherwood.net/Living/Maps.htm

Email comments or questions to:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/Living/AtYourService.htm

Large maps may be viewed outside the Sherwood Permits and Planning/Code Enforcement Department (835-4753) at City Hall on Kiehl Avenue.

Sherwood & NLR Electric

Sherwood's City Council has committed more than 6,000 of its citizens to service from North Little Rock Electric until 2015. They settled one lawsuit and got a check from North Little Rock for $660,000.00 on Monday evening. More than $2,000,000.00 dollars in franchise fees was reported by the news media.

$85,000.00 per month payments for North Hills

Sherwood’s ownership of the 106 acre North Hills Property has a $5,350,000.00 million mortgage. The mortgage payment is about $85,000.00 per month. The Public Facilities Board has a loan from Twin City Bank. Previous information on the property shows a 1985 loan for $140,000 from First American National Bank, North Little Rock. In 1946, the property was purchased for $30,000 from Metropolitan Trust Co. Sherwood gained ownership through eminent domain action against James and Betty Rodgers, Club Properties Inc. and North Hills Country Club.

Monday, October 27, 2008

PUBLIC HEARING 6 PM 10/27/08

PUBLIC HEARING
SHERWOOD COUNCIL CHAMBERS
OCTOBER 27, 2008, 6:00 P.M.

1. Public Hearing-Discussion on changes to the Zoning Map, Land Use Map, and Master Street Plan for the Gravel Ridge Annexations.

View maps at: http://www.cityofsherwood.net/Living/Maps.htm

Sherwood City Council
October 27, 2008, 7:00 P.M.

1. Prayer
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting on September 22, 2008, as transcribed.
5. Reports of Department Heads
6. Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman

An ordinance amending the Land Use Map for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance amending the Master Street Plan for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance amending the zoning map for the City of Sherwood, Arkansas (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance rezoning the property at 8019 Highway 107, Pulaski County, Arkansas, from R-1 non-conforming use to C-3 general commercial; amending the zoning map; and for other purposes (Mayor Hillman)

Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
Street Committee- Alderman Fender, Chairman

7. An ordinance suspending the connection of Hemphill Road pursuant to the Master Street Plan, declaring an emergency and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

8. A resolution finding the structure located on parcel #23S-003-00-001-29, commonly known as, Lot 355 of the Sunwood Mobile Home Court, located at the 300 block of Cherrie Avenue to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

9. A resolution finding the structure located on parcel #22S-001-07-026-00, commonly known as 10618 Rockbrook Drive, to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

10. An ordinance vacating Indianhead Cove in the City of Sherwood, Arkansas. (Mayor Hillman)

11. An ordinance approving settlement of the existing litigation between the City of North Little Rock and Sherwood, Arkansas, approving the execution of an agreement granting North Little Rock the franchise as provider of electricity for Sherwood, declaring an emergency and for other purposes (Mayor Hillman)

12. Old Business
13. New Business
14. Announcements
Halloween Carnival, Sherwood Forest, October 31, 2008, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Early Voting Senior Center, October 27-October 31, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday, October 25, & November 1, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Adjournment

Thursday, September 25, 2008

No Ball Fields for Sherwood's Kids??

Why aren't the Sherwood fields ready? They have had ample time and offers for assistance. The city is NOT placing its focus on the citizens' needs. See the story at KTHV:
http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=73017

103.7 and KATV's site for donations:
http://www.buildaballpark2.org/buildaballpark2.htm

Friday, September 19, 2008

City Council to meet 09/22 7 PM

Sherwood City Council
Monday, September 22, 2008, 7:00 P.M.

Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval-minutes of regular meeting on August 25, 2008, as transcribed.

Recognition of Clinton Elementary School

Reports of Department Heads
Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman
a. An ordinance rezoning the property at 14723 Highway 107, NPS commercial Subdivision, from R-1 residential to C-3 Commercial (Mayor Hillman)
Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
Street Committee- Alderman Fender, Chairman

A resolution appointing Sandy Dial to the Senior Citizen Committee, replacing Freida Evans Bolin. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution appointing Donald Granade to the Senior Citizen Committee. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution appointing Albert Harris to the Planning Commission, replacing Wayne Smith. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance suspending the connection of Hemphill Road pursuant to the Master Street Plan, declaring an emergency and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance granting First Electric Cooperative Corporation, its successors and assigns, the exclusive right, privilege and authority to sell, furnish, and distribute electric power and energy and erect, maintain, extend, and operate a system for the distribution, transmission, furnishing, or sale of electric power and energy within certain areas of the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, and to its inhabitants, and to use the streets, alleys, bridges, and other public grounds of the City in connection therewith; fixing the terms thereof, and for other purposes, and declaring and emergency. (Mayor Hillman)

An ordinance appropriating funds to pay the lease obligation of the City of Sherwood Arkansas to the Sherwood Public Facilities Board for the balance of 2008, declaring an emergency, and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution finding the structure located on Parcel #23S-024-12-052-00, commonly known as 8806 Patricia Lynn Lane to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution finding the structure located on Parcel #23S-006-00-063-00, commonly know as 411 Ridgelea Avenue to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution finding the structure located on Parcel #23S-0003-00-001-29, commonly known as lot 347 of Sunwood Mobile Home Court, at the 300 Block of Cherrie Avenue to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

Old Business
New Business
Announcements
Adjournment

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Sewer pumps not able to handle load

(click on photo to enlarge)
Sewer pumps around the Indianhead Lake area are not able to handle the capacity and have caused problems at several residences. Severe flooding and stormwater drainage problems are apparent throughout the city. If you know of problems, please report them at the link below:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/Living/AtYourService.htm

City seeks volunteers to clean up former NHCC Property

North Hills Country Club property cleanup day Saturday, Sept. 6, beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Bring: chainsaws, rakes, gloves, weedeaters, pruning shears, loppers, etc. Lunch and refreshments will be provided for volunteers.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Sherwood City Council 08/25 7PM

Sherwood City Council
Monday, August 25, 2008, 7:00 P.M.
Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of minutes
of the regular meeting on July 28, 2008, as transcribed.
Presentation to the family of Bea Penny
Reports of Department Heads
Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman

What about the parks study?
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman
a) An ordinance rezoning the property at part of Section 21 Township 3 North, Range 11 West, Pulaski County, Arkansas, from R-1 single family residential to C-4 commercial (Mayor Hillman)
b) An ordinance rezoning the property at part of Section 21 Township 3 North, Range 11 West, Pulaski County, Arkansas, from R-1 Single Family residential to R-3 multi-family residential (Mayor Hillman)
c) An ordinance rezoning the property at Lots 1, 2, and 3, Hatcher Oaks Addition, Pulaski County, Arkansas, from R-1 single family residential to R-3 multi-family residential (Mayor Hillman)
d) Request from Kenneth Meckfessel to have rezoning of 7225 Jacksonville Cutoff sent back to planning commission
Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
a) An ordinance regulating the discharge of industrial and commercial wastewater to the public sewer system; providing penalties for the violation thereof; repealing all existing ordinances in conflict therewith; and for other purposes, all pertaining to sewer lines, sewerage systems and sewage treatment systems serviced by the City of Sherwood, Arkansas (Mayor Hillman)
Street Committee- Alderman Fender, Chairman
An ordinance suspending the connection of Hemphill Road pursuant to the Master Street Plan, declaring an emergency and for other purposes. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution finding the structure located on Parcel #22R-029-01-015-00, Commonly known as 27 Fra-Mar, to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution finding the structure located on Parcel #23S-023-01-004-00, commonly known as 105 Cherrywood, to constitute a public nuisance. (Mayor Hillman)

A resolution implementing and setting forth details regarding Ordinance No. 1790, ($6,100,000) adopted July 28, 2008; and prescribing various matters related thereto. (Mayor Hillman)

To read the ordinance #1790, click the link below:

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord1790.doc

Old Business
New Business
Announcements
- North Hills Country Club property cleanup day Saturday, Sept. 6, beginning at 8:00 a.m.
- Sherwood Fest, Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pancake breakfast 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Adjournment

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Meeting - Public Facilities Board 08/28 NOON

NOTICE OF MEETING
PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD
AUGUST 28, 2008
12:00 P.M.
SHERWOOD CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
2201 EAST KIEHL AVENUE
SHERWOOD, AR 72120

Steve Perry Bows Out of Ward 2 Race

Steve Perry who was seeking the vacated seat of retiring Alderman David Henry this november has announced that he is no longer seeking public office. This means that the Ward 2 seat is now uncontensted and the other candidate Kevin Lilly will more than likely be elected to the position this fall.

To read more about Mr. Perry's decision please read the Sherwood Voice article:http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/08/19/sherwood_voice/local_news/nws04.txt

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Metroplan Housing & Demographics

2008
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/2008DemR&O.pdf

2007
http://www.metroplan.org/includes/pdfs/datacenter/2007DemR&O.pdf

2000
http://www.metroplan.org/includes/pdfs/datacenter/housdata.pdf

Metroplan Transportation Improvement Plan

Metroplan Transportation Improvement Plan
2007-2010
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/TIP07-10.pdf

2007 - Annual List of Obligated Projects
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/ALOP.pdf

FY 2008 Unified Planning Work Program
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/2008UPWP.pdf

FY 2009 Unified Planning Work Program
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/2009UPWP.pdf

2007 Public Participation Plan
Metroplan feedback form (on last page):
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/PubPartPlan.pdf

Metroplan ADA Self Evaluation

Metroplan invites public comment on their facility's ADA compliance:
http://www.metroplan.org/!Userfiles/pdf/ADA-eval.pdf
Public Review and Comment
The public is invited to review and comment on Metroplan’s draft Self Evaluation and Transition Plan. Metroplan is the metropolitan planning organization for central Arkansas. Transportation legislation (SAFETEA-LU) requires that MPOs conduct a self evaluation of its programs and facility accessibility, and to prepare a Transition Plan that describes
any deficiencies, remedies, time-frame for carrying out remedies and approximate costs. The public comment period is from Wednesday, July 30, 2008, until close of business day on Tuesday, September 2, 2008.

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Sherwood Planning Commission TUESDAY August 12, 7:00 PM

Sherwood Planning Commission
Agenda - September 9, 2008
(do they mean Tuesday, August 12th?)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Minutes
Public Hearing
4. Preliminary Development Plan for Heslep Multi Family (Bayou Meto Commons). Clayton Engineering, Inc., Agent
5. Preliminary Development Plan for Upwood Manor ( Lot 1, Seibel Addition) 7225 Jacksonville Cutoff Road. Clayton Engineering, Inc., Agent.
Site Plan
6. Preliminary Plat for lots 1-36 Hidden Lake Estates. Clayton Engineering, Inc., Agent
7. Old Business
8. New Business
9. Adjourn
____________

Sherwood Board of Adjustments
Agenda - September 9, 2008
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Minutes
Public Hearing
4. A request for a Variance for the property located at 5900 Wadley Road for 15' extension to an existing 150' Monople. American Tower Corporation, Gerard Frey, Agent.
5. A request for a Variance for the property located at 1901 Sage Meadows for 8'of the required 10'side yard setback for constuction of a fence. David Craig of Craig Custom Homes, Agent.
6. New Business
7. Old Business
8. Adjourn

Sherwood Parks Study ? ? ?

Whatever happened to the Sherwood parks study?

Will it encompass the North Hills property and the needs of the annexed areas in Gravel Ridge.

Does anybody know if there will be a meeting on this?

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Public Facilities Board Meeting THURSDAY 08/07 12:30 PM

NOTICE OF MEETING
SHERWOOD PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD
SHERWOOD COUNCIL CHAMBERS
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2008
12:30 P.M.
2201 EAST KIEHL AVENUE
SHERWOOD, AR 72120

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Pulaski County Strategic Plan

Public input is being sought
for the Pulaski County Survey:


http://www.bettertogether-lr.info/surveys.html

The survey is open until August 15th.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Sherwood City Council to meet Monday July 28-7PM

July 28, 2008, 7:00 P.M.
1. Prayer
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting on June 23, 2008, and the called meetings on June 30, 2008, July 1, 2008, and July 21, 2008, as transcribed.
5. Reports of Department Heads
6. Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
An ordinance deleting one vacant cashier position in the Police Department and creating one additional dispatcher/detention officer position. (Alderman Vassar)
Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman
An ordinance rezoning the property at lots 1-26 and lots 1F-5F, Wandering Ridge subdivision, Pulaski County, Arkansas, from R-1 Single Family residential to R-2 multi-family, amending the zoning map. (Mayor Hillman)
An ordinance rezoning the property at part of Lots A-C and Tract B, Wandering Ridge Subdivision, Pulaski County, Arkansas, from R-1 single family residential to C-3 general commercial, amending the zoning map. (Mayor Hillman)
An ordinance rezoning the property at Lots ‘A’ and ‘1-RR’, Block 7, Lake Cherrywood subdivision #1, Sherwood, Arkansas, from R-1 single family residential to C-3 general commercial; amending the zoning map. (Mayor Hillman)
Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
Street Committee - Alderman Fender, Chairman

7. An ordinance amending the City of Sherwood, Arkansas Master Street plan as to Hemphill Road and for other purposes (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (2) times May & June 2008)

8. An ordinance approving the issuance of revenue bonds by the Public facilities board of the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, amending the ordinance whereby the board was created; declaring an emergency; and for related purposes (Alderman Vassar)

9. Old Business

10. New Business
Consideration of bids on Trammel Road
Consideration of settlement proposals from NLR litigation

11. Announcements
Rachel Dennis, NLR Mayor’s Youth Council to address the Sherwood City Council
National Night Out, August 5, 2008, 6-9 P.M. Sherwood Forrest

12. Adjournment

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/City/CityCouncilMeetings.htm

Monday, July 21, 2008

Sherwood City Council SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 07/21 1:30 PM

Sherwood City Council - Special Called Meeting
City Council Chambers
Monday, July 21, 2008, 1:30 P.M.

1. Roll Call
2. Ordinance to approve settlement on North Hills Country Club property litigation.
3. Adjournment.

See story:
http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=69572

MINUTES of Meetings - Sherwood Public Facilities Board

Public Facilities Board Meeting
July 15, 2008, 4:00 P.M.


The Public Facilities Board met July 15, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. in the Sherwood District Courtroom. Present were Chairman Linda Napper, Jack Wilson, Bob Dawson, and Forrest Penney. Member Robert Franks absent.

Linda Napper called the meeting to order, and the roll call made. Bob Dawson asked Steve Cobb, City Attorney who employed Joseph Gregory. Mr. Cobb stated that as an extension of the City the Tim Grooms firm hire them. Bob Dawson, seconded by Forrest Penny, made a motion to adopt the minutes of July 14, 2008, as amended. The roll call vote was 4 ayes. Robert Franks absent.

Linda Napper advised that Jim Buttry was on tele-conference if there were any questions for him.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to open for discussion the Twin City Bank proposal. All members present were in favor. Jack Wilson asked that if the research on the revenue stream allowed the public facilities board to finance through franchise fees. Mr. Buttry stated this was correct because the franchise fees are non-tax revenues. Mr. Wilson asked if the Advertising and Promotion tax because of a Supreme Court ruling. Mr. Buttry advised that Amendment 62 and 65, stated that to pledge taxes to debt requires a vote.

Linda Napper asked Mr. Buttry if the proposal with Twin City Bank needs to specify the revenue stream. Mr. Buttry stated there would need to be an understanding of the revenue stream. It was determined that Mr. Buttry would prepare all documents and a resolution for the council advising of the action taken by the public facilities board. Annette VanPelt, Vice President of Twin City Bank, stated that the attorney’s for Twin City Bank would prepare the documents and have Mr. Buttry review them.

Bob Dawson, seconded by Forrest Penney, made a motion to accept the amended proposal from Twin City Bank. The roll call vote was 4 ayes. Robert Franks absent.

Bob Dawson, seconded by Forrest Penney, made a motion to request statement of qualifications. The roll call vote was 4 ayes. Robert Franks absent.

********************************
Public Facilities Board Meeting
July 14, 2008, 12:00 p.m.


The Public Facilities Board met July 14, 2008, at 12:00 p.m. in the city council chambers. Present were Chairman Linda Napper, Jack Wilson, and Bob Dawson. Members Robert Franks and Forrest Penny absent. Also present were James A. Buttry and D. Michael Moyers, Attorney’s with Friday Eldredge & Clark.

Linda Napper called the meeting to order, and the roll call made. Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to adopt the minutes of the July 9, 2008, meeting.

Jack Wilson made a motion to table Twin City Bank’s amended proposal until the public facilities board could seek legal counsel.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to hire counsel to represent the Public Facilities Board. The roll call vote was 3 ayes, Robert Franks and Forrest Penny absent.

Mr. Wilson advised the facilities board is concerned that the board is not moving forward according to statutes as to how the financing is obtained. A request was made by the council to the public facilities board to assist in the financing of up to $6.1 million dollars for the purpose of funding a condemnation suit that will be tried in the next few days.

Mr. Wilson asked Friday Eldredge & Clark attorneys to advise and assist the public facilities board in the financing of the North Hills Country Club property.

The intent of the Public Facilities board is to assist the City of Sherwood in obtaining funds quick to handle the outcome of the condemnation suit.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to recess the meeting until more information could be obtained from legal counsel. The roll call vote was 3 ayes, Robert Franks and Forrest Penny absent.

Joseph Gregory, of Jack Nelson Jones Law Firm, advised the board that they were hired by Tim Grooms firm extending through the city council to represent them in the financing of the North Hills Country Club property. He stated that they would be willing to share the information they have obtained with Friday Eldredge & Clark.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to adjourn.

********************************
Public Facilities Board Meeting
July 9, 2008,12:00 p.m.

The Public Facilities Board met July 9, 2008, at 12:00 p.m. in the city council chambers. Present were Chairman Linda Napper, Jack Wilson, Bob Dawson, and Bob Franks. Member Forrest Penny absent.

Linda Napper called the meeting to order, and the roll call made. Jack Wilson, seconded by Robert Franks made a motion to adopt the minutes of the July 1, 2008. All members present were in favor.

Linda Napper opened the sealed proposal made by Twin City Bank.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to consider the proposal and open for discussion.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to accept the proposal subject to Twin City Bank making the following amendments: 1) the prepayment penalty be eliminated, 2) the maturity date be changed from 24 months to 36 months, 3) that the requirements that the City of Sherwood and Public Facilities Board deposit relationship be moved to Twin City Bank be removed. The roll call vote was 4 ayes, Forrest Penny absent.

Annette Van Pelt, Vice President of Twin City Bank, stated that she could have an answer to the above concerns within twenty-four hours. She further stated attorneys for Twin City Bank would prepare the legal documents.

Bob Dawson, seconded by Jack Wilson, made a motion to adjourn.

Jack Wilson, seconded by Bob Dawson, made a motion to adjourn. All members present were in favor.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

SPECIAL MEETING on Rezoning Request in Gravel Ridge Area

There will be a SPECIAL MEETING to provide additional information regarding a recent rezoning request for apartments in the Gravel Ridge area at 7225 Jacksonville Cutoff. Plans for possible development of apartments at this location in the Gravel Ridge area will be on display. Residents will have an opportunity to provide comments and ask questions about the development and the recent rezoning request. The meeting will be 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 17.

See story about planning commission meeting in The LEADER:
http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/07/top-story-gravel-ridge-developer_15.html

Sherwood Facilities Board MET 07/14/2008 and 07/15/2008

WAITING FOR MORE INFORMATION . . .

Notice of Meeting
Sherwood Public Facilities Board
July 15, 2008, 4:00 p.m.
Sherwood City Council Chambers
2201 East Kiehl Avenue
Sherwood, AR 72120

NOTICE OF MEETING
PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2008, 12:00 P.M.
SHERWOOD COUNCIL CHAMBERS
2201 EAST KIEHL AVENUE, SHERWOOD

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Sherwood Planning Commission to Review Master Street Plan and Land Use Map for Gravel Ridge Area at NEXT Scheduled Meeting





This item and several others in the newly annexed Gravel Ridge area were deferred by the Sherwood Planning Commission.
(click on photo to enlarge)

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/City/Meetings/Agendas/Planning%20Commission%20080708.pdf - Planning Commission Agenda

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/City/Meetings/Agendas/Board%20of%20Adjustment%20080708.pdf - Board of Adjustment Agenda

Sherwood's Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment meets the second Tuesday of each month. To check agendas:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/City/Meetings/BoardCommissionAndCommitteeAgendas.htm

More information on the NLR Electric Case

To read a Sherwood Voice article on the North Little Rock Electric lawsuit, please visit the following link:

http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/07/08/sherwood_voice/local_news/nws06.txt

Board asks to seek funding for purchase of golf course

To read the latest developments in Sherwood's continuing efforts to purchase the former North Hills Country Club property, please click on the following links:

Arkansas Leader article - July 2, 2008:
http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/07/top-story-board-asked-to-pursue-funding.html

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Sherwood Facilities Board - Next Meeting July 9th at NOON

Sherwood Facilities Board reappointed Bob Franks to a new term and agreed to allow Linda Napper as the chairman to take bond bids for the North Hills property. Bids are due by 11 a.m. July 9, and will be opened and discussed at a Sherwood Facilities Board meeting at NOON on Wednesday, July 9 in the Sherwood City Council chambers.

SPECIAL MEETINGS June 30 & July 1

NOTICE OF MEETING
PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD

CITY OF SHERWOOD COUNCIL CHAMBERS
2201 EAST KIEHL AVENUE, SHERWOOD
9:00 A.M. JULY 1, 2008

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD
MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2008
10:00 A.M.
CITY OF SHERWOOD
THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELLED

NOTICE OF MEETING
PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD
MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2008
10:00 A.M.
SHERWOOD CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
2201 EAST KIEHL AVENUE
SHERWOOD, AR 72120

Sherwood City Council
Special Called Meeting
City Council Chambers
June 30, 2008, 12:00 P.M.

1. Roll Call
2. Request for Public Facilities Board to secure financing for the purchase of the North Hills Country Club property.
3. Adjournment.

Sherwood City Council
Special Called Meeting

City Council Chambers
July 1, 2008, 8:30 A.M.

1. Roll Call
2. Resolution supplementing resolution 10-2008.
3. Adjournment.
________________________________
RESOLUTION NO. 10-2008

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SHERWOOD PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD TO PURSUE FINANCING FOR THE PURCHASE ON THE PROPERTY COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE NORTH HILLS COUNTRY CLUB PROPERTY

Now be it resolved by the City Council of Sherwood, Arkansas:

SEC. 1 The Sherwood Public Facilities Board is hereby authorized to pursue alternatives for financing acquisition of the property commonly known as North Hills Country Club, which includes the Rogers’ residence, and to assist the City of Sherwood in acquiring such facility for the uses set forth in Ordinance #1767, which authorized condemnation of such property.
Sec. 2 The City requests the Board Chairman advise the City of the Boards’ recommendations and appreciates the Board pursuing financing alternatives which may present favorable alternatives to a cash acquisition from reserves and other sources available to the City.
ADOPTED on this 30th day of June 2008.

Virginia R. Hillman, Mayor

ATTEST:
Angela Nicholson, City Clerk

APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Stephen Cobb, City Attorney

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/resolutions/res10-08.doc
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord1767.doc

Monday, June 30, 2008

Lawsuit workshop Information

It was reported that the "lawsuit" workshop did have many interesting facts presented.

Apparently the city is involved in four separate legal actions. The lawsuit with AET (Arkansas Emergency Transport) is being delayed because of criminal charges it will move forward once the criminal charges are dealt with. We presume that the criminal charges are related to the driver that showed up on a call in Sherwood under the influence of medication and lack of sleep.

The North Little Rock Electric ruling is a very double edged sword for the city. On the one hand Judge Fox ruled that we do have the autonomy to select our own utility provider but on the other hand we may be forced to pay out $2 million in "franchise fees" plus attorney fees. The attorney representing First Electric would like to appeal the case to the supreme court regarding the fees but no action has been taken yet by the council. Although having a different electric provider would provide for better rate regulation through the Public Service Commission, there is no real, considerable difference in the rates being offered by First Electric. The City of North Little Rock has placed a inflated price on their infrastructure but has made an offer to fore go collecting the fees and attorney fees if we'll stick it out with them. The real question is, once the hydro electric dam bonds are paid off, would the City of Sherwood get a lower electric rate for the 6000 customers that are served? It's not an easy decision and one that we hope that the council will really research before making a decision.

On to the North Hills Country Club property.... The federal case (for damages) has been issued a stay until Judge Fox (the same judge in the North Little Rock Electric case) hears and a jury decides the fate of the purchase price. Attorney's recommended that the City pony up at least $1 million to put down on a bond issue and that the public facilities board and council should move swiftly prior to trial (at the end of July) so that a funding mechanism is in place.

It's a dangerous thing in this economy to gamble with 50% of the city's reserves. But, there is another option: If the City went with private financing they may be able to secure an even better rate, but, there is a catch: it would require a vote of the public since the City would be the party encumbering debt. Several issues were brought up... If the jury comes in with a figure of six (6) million, the city won't be obligated to purchase, but, then it would give more ammunition to the property owners to sue for additional damages. The numbers between the City and the property owners are way off from one another and no one knows what a jury will think. They could come in line with the city at around $2.2 million or they could side with the property owners at over $5 million. These numbers are only for purchase and not improving the property or developing it into a water park or installing hiking trails or a public lake. The water park in Jacksonville had a price tag of $2.5 million. So, worse case scenario, the City pays $5 million to purchase, then adds an improvement rolled into a bond issue that could be upwards of $8 million. It will take decades to have receipts large enough to pay back this bond issue with a potential price tag that high.

These are some very difficult and complicated issues facing the city council. And, we all hope that they think through things very carefully, and make a decision based on sound business principles instead of personal agendas. Regardless of our individual personal beliefs about saving green space or preserving what many consider a landmark, we must be ruled by logic and what we can truly afford. These are difficult economic times, and we as a Nation, a State and a City, must be as frugile as we are able to prepare for an uncertain future and economic turnaround. We really need mindfull leadership by the council.

We wish the city luck in dealing with four separate lawsuits, and, we also wish that it didn't take lawsuits to get things settled between disputing parties in this town. The real loser in all of this, in our humble opinion, are the citizens of Sherwood who undoubtedly will be paying tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees if we simply didn't bully in our leadership on the council instead of sitting down and being civil and coming up with solutions instead of allowing our politics to spawn lawsuits.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Master Street Plans

Some Master Street Plan information:

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord0195.doc

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord0201.doc

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord0371.doc

North Hills Blvd.:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord0690.doc

End of Maryland Ave.:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord0721.doc

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord0756.doc

IF this had been followed, there would be no issues:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord1347.doc

Adding a street (let's watch to see if it gets constructed):
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord1714.doc

Arkansas statutes (Act 26 of 1955) acknowledge and establish the permissible rights of adjoining cities and counties to form a Metropolitan or Regional Planning Commission to perform regional planning.

Act 186 of 1957 and Act 422 of 1977 acknowledge and establish the permissible right of cities to establish a planning area beyond their corporate limits. Within a municipal planning area the city has the authority to approve all subdivision plats. The city also attends to any new streets being constructed according to either city or county standards whichever is the more restrictive.

Monday, June 23, 2008

Lawsuit "Workshop" Meeting 6/24 at 3pm - Recreation Center

At tonight's city council meeting, more better described as Lord Vassar holding court and other jesters playing the fools, they announced that a "workshop" meeting was going to be held at the Harmon Recreation Center at 3pm on Tuesday, June 24th.

At this special "workshop" meeting, which is a public meeting, and, not a public forumn, they will be discussing the North Hills Country Club condemnation lawsuit and the North Little Rock Electric lawsuit.

VOTE ON MARYLAND ROAD 06/23

Motion by Sherwood Alderman Brooks:
The Sherwood City Council agrees the immediate extension of Maryland Avenue in Stonehill subdivision is of great importance to the ingress and egress of residents residing in the area and accepts the offer of the developer to expedite the construction of his required portion within nine months following approval of the Sherwood City Council. It is with mutual consent that the developer will have no responsibility to construct any road extension on Hemphill. See map at link below:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=2701+e+maryland+sherwood,+ar&sll=34.840859,-92.203231&sspn=0.010567,0.021393&ie=UTF8&ll=34.840418,-92.200806&spn=0.021134,0.042787&z=15

VOTE: Vasser-NO, Harmon-NO, Henry-NO,
Fender-NO, Rankin-NO / Brooks-YES, Davis-YES, Sulcer-YES

Aldermen contact information:
Becki Vassar -Ward 1/Pos 1
#5 Putter Cove, Sherwood, AR 72120
Phone: 835-6508 Home, 258-9060 Cell
City email: bvassar@cityofsherwood.net
Charles Harmon -Ward 1/Pos 2
601 Club Rd, Sherwood, AR 72120
Phone: 835-2617 Home
City email: charmon@cityofsherwood.net
Lex 'Butch' Davis -Ward 2/Pos 1
#2 Hickok Place, Sherwood, AR 72120
Phone: 835-3909 Home 416-7577 Cell
Home email: butchdavis@sbcglobal.net
City email: ldavis@cityofsherwood.net
David Henry -Ward 2/Pos 2
8205 Beverly Ave, Sherwood, AR 72120 /
Phone: 835-7127 Home
City email: dhenry@cityofsherwood.net
Sheila Sulcer -Ward 3/Pos 1
1506 Hawkwood Rd, Sherwood, AR 72120
Phone: 833-3500 Office, 835-8419 Home
Home email: ssulcer@sbcglobal.net
City email: ssulcer@cityofsherwood.net
Marina Brooks -Ward 3,Pos 2
1616 Coolhurst Rd, Sherwood, AR 72120 /
Phone: 835-8572
Home email: marinabrooks@excite.com
City email: mbrooks@cityofsherwood.net
Keith Rankin -Ward 4/Pos 1
310 East Woodruff Rd, Sherwood, AR 72120
Phone: 835-3900 Office, 835-9629 Home
Work email: keithr@rankincorp.net
City email: krankin@cityofsherwood.net
Steve Fender -Ward 4/Pos 2
2120 E Kiehl Ave, Sherwood, AR 72120
Phone: 834-2060 Office, 834-0474 Home
Work email: fenderchiropractic@comcast.net
City email: sfender@cityofsherwood.net

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Sherwood City Council Meeting - MONDAY June 23, 7 PM

Agenda
Prayer

Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting on May 27, 2008, as transcribed.

Reports of Department Heads Committees and/or Commissions:
Advertising & Promotion Commission – Alderman Sulcer, Chairman
Civil Service Commission – Carolyn Chalmers, Chairman
Parks & Recreation Committee – Alderman Rankin, Chairman
Personnel Committee – Alderman Vassar, Chairman
a) An ordinance creating one street maintenance worker position in the Public Works-Street Department. (Alderman Vassar)
b) An ordinance creating two maintenance & repair technician positions in the Wastewater Department (Alderman Vassar)
c) An ordinance creating one equipment operator position in the Public Works-Drainage Department (Alderman Vassar)
d) An ordinance creating one sanitation operator and two refuse collector positions in the Public Works-Sanitation Department (Alderman Vassar)

Planning Commission – Freddie Hudson, Chairman
a) An ordinance rezoning property at Ash, East Kiehl Avenue, and Elmwood from R-1 to R-2, repealing conflicting ordinance, and amending the zoning map. (Mayor Hillman)

Sewer Committee – Norman Ladd, Chairman
Street Committee- Alderman Fender, Chairman
An ordinance amending the City of Sherwood, Arkansas Master Street plan as to Hemphill Road and for other purposes (Mayor Hillman) (Read one (1) time May 2008)

A resolution in support of Danny Ebbs, Principal of Sylvan Hills High School. (Alderman Vassar)

Old Business - Herschel Bowman, MLRA update (Metro Little Rock Alliance)

New Business

Announcements - July 4th Family Celebration 6-9 p.m.

Adjournment

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Sherwood to crack down on unsightly buildings

The city's code enforcement division is tackling unsightly buildings. A KTHV reporter followed one of the code enforcement officers and filed this report:

http://www.todaysthv.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=66528&catid=2

The hilarious thing is that they are also showing some buildings that are adjacent to the former NHCC which have been long vacant and in a state of disrepair. It's time the city cracks down on this problem. We have to stay vigilent if we want to maintain our property values and keep our crime rate low.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Filing period over for Alderman & City Clerk

We were just informed by the Pulaski County Clerk, that
Alderman David Henry is NOT seeking re-election
this fall
. We will now have a new Alderman in Ward 2,
position 2!

Two additional people filed for office prior to the filing period
closing at 12 noon today.

Here is the total list of local candidates and contact information:

City Clerk/Treasurer
Angela Nicholson
7104 Stonehaven Cove
Sherwood AR 72120
834-0541 home
835-5319 work
835-1274 fax

Alderman - Ward 1, Position 2
Charlie Harmon
601 Club Road
Sherwood AR 72120
835-2617 home
835-9802 work
835-9808 fax

Alderman - Ward 2, Position 2:
Steve Perry
4025 Willow Glen Circle
Sherwood AR 72120
835-2098 home
542-4277 work
542-4329 fax

Kevin Lilly
5144 Austin Lakes Circle
Sherwood AR 72120
835-5945 home
258-0005 cell

Alderman - Ward 3, Position 2:
Marina Brooks
1616 Coolhurst
Sherwood AR 72120
835-8572 home
690-8360 work

Bill Montgomery
3610 E Maryland Ave, #1814
Sherwood AR 72120
920-4907 home
301-2267 work

Alderman - Ward 4, Position 2:
Dr. Steve Fender
2120 E Kiehl Ave
Sherwood AR 72120
834-0474 home
834-2060 work
834-2762 fax

Norman L. Cartwright
3007 E Kiehl Ave
Sherwood AR 72120
835-4409 home
258-4407 cell

Justin D. Smith
8704 N Claremont Ave
Sherwood AR 72120
920-3725 home
835-3400 work

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Filings for Sherwood as of May 15th

Pulaski County Clerk filings for Sherwood:
http://www.pulaskiclerk.com/Sherwood_Candidates.htm


Filing Period Ends May 19th at Noon - Election in November!

Friday, May 2, 2008

Pilot curbside recycling program starts with 60% participation!

This week's issue of the Sherwood Voice has an excellent story about the pilot curb side recycling program that Mayor Hillman announced in the March city council meeting. The program is in Gap Creek and the residents are responding in resounding numbers. According to the news report, a whopping 60% of residents partcipated the first week! WOW this a huge success. To learn more about the pilot program, please visit the following link:

http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/05/02/sherwood_voice/local_news/nws03.txt

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Filing period for Alderman positions now open!

The filing period for those persons that are interested in running for Alderman is now open. The filing period lasts from April 30, 2008 - May 19th at noon. Forms may be filed with either the Sherwood City Clerk's office or at the Pulaski County Clerk's office.

Who can run for Alderman?
Any qualified elector who has attained the age of 18 and is a resident of the Ward in which they are seeking office. You must file a petition of nomination signed by registered voters within your Ward (Page 91) . You must also file a Political Practices Pledge (Pages 76-77). You must also file a Statement of Financial Interest (Pages 138-157) and a Notice of Candidacy (Page79) (Independent Candidates) .

Typically every one who runs for office in Sherwood, runs as an Independent Candidate. This allows an individual to not have to pay a party affiliation filing fee.

To learn more about these forms and other helpful information, please click on the following link: http://www.arkansas.gov/sbec/pdfs/2007-Handbook-Final.pdf

The following Alderman are up for re-election this fall and will have four year terms if re-elected:
Aldermen Steve Fender
Aldermen David Henry
Aldermen Marina Brooks
Aldermen Charles Harmon

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Golf Course lawsuit placed on hold

A federal judge has issued a stay in the Federal case that Club Properties filed against the City of Sherwood and the previous buyers of the former NHCC property. To read more about this development click the following link:

http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/04/top-story-golf-course-suit-placed-on.html

Basically this means that the Federal court is going to wait an issue a ruling after a lower court hears the condemnation proceedings. This means that issue remains in proverbial "limbo" until the end of July or later until after the condemnation proceedings have taken place.

Monday, April 28, 2008

City Council Meets - ??? on horizontal grinder for trees and yard waste

Since November 2006, Sherwood Alderman Steve Fender has been pondering the purchase and gathering information for a horizontal grinder for the City of Sherwood:
http://www.ci.sherwood.ar.us/City/Meetings/Minutes/Minutes%2006-11-27.pdf

Fayetteville has been using a yard waste grinder for several years. See a photo of the model they use at this link:
http://www.banditchippers.com/index.php?option=com_models&task=view&itemId=15&lineId=1&modelId=28

At the city council meeting Tuesday evening (04/28/2008, 7:00 p.m.), Fender raised the question again as a lease/purchase. Where would this equipment be placed? There was mention of Sherwood Forest and Trammel Road. The equipment is very large and noisy. See a photo at the link below:
http://www.vermeer.com/vcom/EnvironmentalEquipment/Line.jsp?PrdlnID=39643
Nobody seemed to have an answer for the location or the requirements for the equipment, and a survey for the city-owned swampy acreage on Trammel Road could not be located prior to the council meeting.

Mayor Hillman announced that ALL OF THE FUNDING has been secured for the entire Brockington Road improvement project.

Council members approved funding of a comprehensive study of Sherwood Parks. Some Sherwood ballparks should be operational in the next two to three weeks, according to Sonny Janssen. Sylvan Hills seniors have returned to the Sylvan Hills High School.

Aldermen voted on several other matters, including the annexation of Gravel Ridge, and updating of the city's ordinance on vicious and aggressive dogs. See the meeting agenda at:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/City/Meetings/Agendas/Agenda%20080428.pdf

THE ANNEXED GRAVEL RIDGE AREA WAS SPLIT INTO WARD 1 (WEST OF 107) AND WARD 2 (EAST OF 107).

FOUR (4) ALDERMEN SEATS ARE UP FOR ELECTION THIS YEAR. THE FILING PERIOD FOR SHERWOOD MUNICIPAL CANDIDATES BEGINS APRIL 30, 2008 AND ENDS MAY 19, 2008 at NOON.

For more information, see page 3:
http://www.votepulaski.net/PDF%20Docs/CANDIDATE%20FILING%20DATES-WITH%20CODES.pdf

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Gravel Ridge votes to join Sherwood

Unofficial results from the special election April 1, 2008 show that Gravel Ridge residents support joining Sherwood in an almost 3-1 decision.

For Sherwood . . . . . . . . . . . . .632
For Jacksonville . . . . . . . . . . . 221

Congratulations Gravel Ridge residents and Sherwood. We all look forward to welcoming Gravel Ridge into our community and we all promise to be good neighbors. Hopefully we'll re-draw the city council wards and allow for two new members to join the City Council to represent this area.

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Mayor announces pilot curbside recycling program

On Monday, March 24th at the City Council meeting, Mayor Virginia Hillman announced a short term pilot curbside recycling program which is going to be with a company based in Heber Springs. The project will gage the utilization of this service in the Gap Creek Subdivision. Please encourage your friends and neighbors living in this area to participate.

Mayor Hillman stated that if participation was good that this could go Citywide and that our city was the only incorporated city within Pulaski County to not offer this service. Rest assured, Mayor Hillman also pointed out that if this does go Citywide, that our garbage rates will not go up.

This is just another example of forward-thinking by our Mayor. If you get a moment, please contact her to let her know that you appreciate her allowing this test program to take place and to encourage her to take this city-wide! This could help reduce our tipping fees at the local landfill, and help the environment at the same time.

Friday, March 21, 2008

RUMOR BUZZING on North Hills Property

Rumor has it that there was a ruling by a judge on Thursday, March 20 regarding the North Hills property. There was a motion to dismiss Ron Campbell and Roy Marple from the lawsuit. The judge denied the motion to dismiss. Further rumor is that the negotiated price of the North Hills property will start at $5.1 million, and damages will be on top of that.

Roy Marple recently purchased the old Sir Loin's Inn restaurant property in North Little Rock.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Public hearing set on referendum petition drive

According to the agenda for Monday March 24th's City Council meeting at 7p.m. a public hearing is being conducted under "new business" to discuss the petition of referendum regarding ordinance number 1767 which was passed in January for the condemnation of the former NHCC property. None of the petition organizers requested this public hearing and no one really knows why it is being held other than to perhaps allow additional time for signatures, or maybe something novel like letting the people vote on the issue!

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Referendum Petition Drive to reverse NHCC Condemnation Stalls

Mayor Virginia Hillman as well as City Clerk Angela Nicholson were prepared to allow an additional ten days for the organizers of a referendum petition drive to continue to collect signatures. Mayor Hillman and Clerk Nicholson reversed their position at the insistence and advice of City Attorney Steve Cobb.

To read a recent Sherwood Voice article, published Thursday, March 13th please click here:
http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/03/14/sherwood_voice/news/nws03.txt

Organizers have vowed to fight and are under the impression that the City Attorney Steve Cobb's advice may be at odds with state statute and previous Attorney General opinions on this matter. There is still a window of time to organize and collect signatures under a new drive for an intitated act in order to reverse the actions of the City Council.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Sherwood Special Election 3/11/08

SHERWOOD ANNEXATION
& GRAVEL RIDGE VOTE RESULTS
FOR annexation of the territory . . . 1,764 . .82.05%
AGAINST annexation of the territory. . 386 . . 17.95


Please VOTE FOR Annexation Tuesday, March 11. Tell your family and friends!

Monday, February 25, 2008

Sherwood Voter Petition Calls for a Vote on the North Hills Property

A.G. Opinion - additional signatures:
http://ag.arkansas.gov/opinions/docs/93-198.html
"If the Secretary of State, county clerk or city clerk, as the case may be, shall decide any petition to be insufficient, he shall without delay notify the sponsors of such petition, and permit at least thirty days from the date of such notification, in the instance of a State-wide petition, or ten days in the instance of a municipal or county petition, for correction or amendment."

The petition "Canvasser" must witness all signatures on each form that he/she collects and signs for, and the canvasser must sign the affidavit at the bottom of the petition and have it notarized. Canvasser's may not witness their own individual signature. Notaries are available at City Hall. Petitions must be turned in to the Sherwood City Clerk's office no later than Friday, March 7th.

Petition calls for a special election:
We, the undersigned legal voters of the City of Sherwood, Arkansas, respectfully order by this, our petition, that Ordinance Number 1767 passed by the City Council of the City of Sherwood, ............. be referred to the people of Sherwood, Arkansas to the end that the same may be approved or rejected by the vote of the legal voters of Sherwood, Arkansas at a special election ........ See more details in the story on Page 3 in the Arkansas Leader newspaper.

Sunday, February 24, 2008

City Council Meeting Monday evening

The Sherwood City Council will meet Monday at 7:00 p.m., 02/25/2008. See the complete agenda at the link below:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/City/Meetings/Agendas/Agenda%20080225.pdf

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Hit & Run on East Lee was Fatal

There was a hit and run on East Lee early Saturday morning. The victim died. He was Chasson Joseph Lancon from New Iberia, LA. Please call Sherwood Police at 501-835-1425 if you have any information that might help police in their investigation.
KARK story: http://arkansasmatters.com/content/fulltext/?cid=65977
KARK video: http://arkansasmatters.com/media_player.php?media_id=26411
KTHV story: http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=61172
KTHV video: http://www.todaysthv.com/video/news/player.aspx?aid=61177&bw=

Friday, February 22, 2008

ARM Services Surveys Sherwood ???

KATV story -
http://www.katv.com/news/stories/0208/498356.html
KATV Video:
http://www.katv.com/news/stories/0208/498356_video.html?ref=newsstory

Arkansas Leader story - Telemarketers slam Sherwood residents with negative questions on annexation:
http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/02/top-story-phone-calls-irk-sherwood.html

Have you received a survey call from ARM Services? They are calling residents in Sherwood from phone number 1-866-400-1647. The company is based in Tulsa, OK. ARM uses recorded messages and live callers. Minimum technical setup is $500, $75 per hour, and $25 per hour for outbound calling services. The company refused to tell KATV their client's name. This activity does not pass the "smell" test.
Click on the links below to find out more about them:
http://automatedresearch.com/arm/default.asp
http://automatedresearch.com/arm/recordedmessages.asp
http://automatedresearch.com/arm/contact.asp

Automated Research & Marketing
(SW Corner 51st & Memorial in The Fontana Center)
7906 E 49th Street
Tulsa, OK 74145
918-828-0441

Roundtop Station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

The State Review Board of the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program approved the Roundtop Station for national recognition last year. The Roundtop Station is on Trammel Road, and is owned by the City of Sherwood. Former Sherwood Economic Developer Linda Nickle was instrumental in completing the documentation and taking necessary steps to have the property recognized. Roundtop is one of only eighteen (18) Arkansas properties recently approved for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. See a photo and read details in the Sherwood Voice article:
http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/02/21/sherwood_voice/news/nws01.txt

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Federal Funding to Fight Drugs

Pulaski County is one of four (4) counties to receive federal funding to help fight drug trafficking.

2006 thru 2008
Interstate criminal patrols seized the following from travelers on Arkansas’s highways:
15,000 + pounds of marijuana
8000 + pounds of cocaine
$3 million dollars cash
60 pounds of meth
70,000 + pills

Read more details at the links below:
Arkansas Leader: http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/02/top-story-county-gets-drug-grant.html
KSFM: http://www.kfsm.com/Global/story.asp?S=7907087
FOX16 story: http://www.fox16.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=405f5945-3811-4e4f-abde-c05d3a6b05fc
KTHV story: http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=61147
KTHV video: http://www.todaysthv.com/video/news/player.aspx?aid=61128&bw=

Stephen Ray - A Star from Sherwood

Stephen Ray, a 23 year old baritone from Sherwood, has made the finals! He and seven others will sing Sunday, February 24th. See today's story in the Arkansas section of the Democrat Gazette.

He auditioned at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in New York. Read details in the Feb. 14 Arkansas Democrat story:
http://www2.arkansasonline.com/news/2008/feb/14/sherwood-baritone-gets-second-chance-met/

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Saturday, February 16, 2008

Sherwood Parks/Open Spaces Promoted for Residential Developments

The Sherwood Planning Commission will recommend to the City Council that area developments have parks and open space set aside. Details are in the story in the Arkansas Leader: http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/02/top-story-sherwood-wants-parks-built.html

Sherwood Parks and Recreation Director Sonny Janssen is working with a company to maximize the use of Sherwood's city parks. A article was recently published in the Sherwood Voice regarding a 10-Year Sherwood Parks Plan. To read the article, please click on the following link:
http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/02/10/sherwood_voice/news/nws03.txt

Friday, February 15, 2008

Sherwood files court motion on North Hills Property

The City of Sherwood has filed a motion in Pulaski County Circuit Court regarding the North Hills Property. The Sherwood City Council retained the firm of attorney Tim Grooms to assist the city attorney. Read more details in the Sherwood Voice:
http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/02/15/sherwood_voice/news/nws01.txt

Scenic photo: http://www.nlrtimes.com/articles/2008/02/18/news/nws001.prt

North Little Rock Electric Lawsuit

Sherwood city officials need further clarification on Judge Fox's ruling. Mayor Hillman updated Sherwood Chamber of Commerce. Read details in Sherwood Voice: http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/02/15/sherwood_voice/news/nws06.txt

It's a mixed result for Sherwood. Yes, we can chose who we want for electric providers but the judge also says that we must pay damages to North Little Rock because of a "implied contract". To read more about this development, please click the following link for the Sherwood Voice Article: http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/01/31/sherwood_voice/news/nws03.txt

Saturday, February 9, 2008

SFD receives $158,760 FEMA Grant

The Sherwood Fire Department will receive a $158,760 FEMA grant to buy new air packs (SCBA). This is the third FEMA grant received by the Sherwood Fire Department. Read details in the Arkansas Leader:
http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/01/top-story-cities-will-get-fema-checks.html

Friday, February 8, 2008

Letter to editor in The Times

The following letter to the editor was published in The Times, Thursday February 7, 2008:

Appropriate exercise of eminent domain? The Sherwood City Council voted unanimously to condemn the former NorthHills Country Club property and claim eminent domain. Really, eminent domain? Eminent domain is the act of a government exercising its power to transfer title to private property from the rightful owner to itself. This is the council’s latest plan, a force-feeding of a multimillion-dollar purchase to the residents of our community in the form of initiating a public seizure? Temporarily disregarding the fact that many, likely a majority, of Sherwood citizens are opposed to the idea of an expensive acquisition of the property and will not be asked to vote on the city’s decision, how can this situation possibly be considered an appropriate use of eminent domain?
The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution includes the statement, “Nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken, for public use, without just compensation.”There are prudent and genuine reasons that all levels of government sometimes need to take private property: highways, railroads, utility needs, war demands, public safety concerns, etc. But a golf course/citypark? How is the city planning to pitch that “due process of law” argument? Is public safety threatened by losing a golf course in place of a neighborhood?
The right to private property should not be taken lightly. Citizens need to be reasonably assured that they are free to invest in property for the purpose of investment or personal use. It’s one of the backbones of capitalism.The economist Adam Smith stated it this way: “The expectation of profit from improving one’s stock of capital rests on private property rights, and the belief that property rights encourage the property holders to develop the property, generate wealth, and efficiently allocate resources based on the operation of the market.”
The owner of this private property had a firm offer of $5.3 million, and now the city of Sherwood, in domineering, bully-like style, wants to purchase it for $2.2 million. This is not an issue of public need outweighing the constitutional right to private property (eminent domain). This can be better defined as a quasi-legal effort to defraud a local property owner out of the market value of private property. I actually hope the owner, Club Properties, is awarded far more than the original $5.3 million when a jury determines a value that is “fair and full compensation.”The use of eminent domain in this situation is a complete sham, and even though most Sherwood residents don’t want to purchase the golf course, we will all, unfortunately, be asked to pay the bill. - Bryant Rushing, Sherwood

Sherwood files to condemn club property

This article was published Friday, February 8, 2008 in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette, Arkansas Section, Pages 15 & 19 written by Stacy Hudson:
LITTLE ROCK — Sherwood officials filed an application Thursday in Pulaski County Circuit Court seeking to take control of the vacant, privately owned North Hills Country Club property.
The City Council voted Jan.28 to use eminent domain to take the country club land, hoping to end a lawsuit filed by property owner Club Properties Inc. and saying the city would probably use it as a public park. City officials had wrangled over what to do about the 105-acre property since April, whenthe City Council imposed a sixmonth building moratorium on the land while it sought advice on whether it could purchase and operate the 18-hole golf course. The country club closed in May after years of declining membership.
At the time, Club Properties had an offer to sell the land to developers Ron Campbell and Roy Marple for $5.1 million, but that deal fell through when the City Council imposed the moratorium. The property owners then sued the city and the developers.
In September, the City Council voted to negotiate with Club Properties to buy the land, but nothing came of those talks.
The Thursday filing doesn’t contain a dollar figure on the property. Instead, it requests that the court decide how much the property is worth.
The city had the land appraised for $2.2 million, lower than a $3.1 million Pulaski County appraisal. City Attorney Steve Cobb had previously said Sherwood would have to pay an amount it feels the property is worth and if the landowners disagree with the offer they could challenge it in court. Neither Mayor Virginia Hillman nor Cobb returned messages left on their cell phones Thursday night.
Jim Rodgers, one of the former club’s owners, hadn’t heard about the condemnation filing Thursday evening but said it wouldn’t affect Club Properties’ lawsuit. A trial date is set for April 21. “We’ve been under the impression all along that they condemned the property since the first moratorium,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers said he hopes the court will find the country club property worth at least the $5.5 million that Club Properties had the land appraised for.
In January, the city’s Planning Commission indefinitely tabled requests from Club Properties that would allow it to develop a subdivision on the property. Officials said at that time that they were worried the land couldn’t handle the storm-water runoff and additional sewage a proposed subdivision would produce. The city estimated it would cost between $2 million and $3 million to address those concerns.
Sherwood aldermen have said they would ask the city’s Public Facilities Board to seek out funding to buy the property after it was condemned. Linda Napper, who serves on the facilities board, said Thursday night that her board has not met about the property and has not yet been asked to look into funding for it. Alderman Becki Vassar, who initiated the ordinance to condemn the property, did not immediately return a call for comment.

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Council votes to condemn North Hills Property

City Ordinance authorizing Condemnation of the property and stuctures commonly referred to as North Hills Country Club:
http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord1767.doc

Newspaper reports on City Council condemnation vote:
Sherwood Voice Article: http://www.sherwoodvoice.com/articles/2008/01/31/sherwood_voice/news/nws02.txt
Arkansas Leader
Article:
http://www.arkansasleader.com/2008/01/top-story-sherwood-to-take-on-big-debt.html

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Wind Damage

The excessive winds during yesterday's storms that blew threw have damaged roofs throughout Central Arkansas including Sherwood and Jacksonville. Please take the time to visually inspect your roofs and the roofs of your neighbors to prevent further damage. Damage is widespread.

Friday, January 25, 2008

SPECIAL SHERWOOD CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00 P.M. Monday, Jan. 28

Click on the image above to enlarge - A SPECIAL MEETING has been called for the Sherwood City Council at 6:00 p.m. NO AGENDA was provided. The purpose of the meeting is for Sherwood Aldermen to vote on condemnation of the North Hills Golf Course and Country Club property. Aldermen met and agreed that they have sufficient votes to take this action.

Please let others know about this SPECIAL MEETING so that Sherwood Citizens may be represented.

Citizens of Sherwood VOTED on issuing bonds to construct and equip a public recreational facility in November 1992:

http://www.cityofsherwood.net/ordinances/ord1060.doc

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SHERWOOD, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION 1: A special election is hereby called to be held at the usual polling places in the City on November 3, 1992, at which election there shall be submitted to the electors of the City the question of issuing Capitol Improvement Bonds under Act 871.
SECTION 2: The question shall be placed on the ballot for the special election in substantially the following form:
Vote on question by placing an "X" in one of the following squares, either for or against:
FOR an issue of bonds in principal amount not to exceed $2,000,000 and the pledge by the Advertising and Promotion Commission of the City of a two percent (2%) hotel, motel and restaurant gross receipts tax to finance constructing and equipping a public recreational facility in the City. _______
AGAINST an issue of bonds in principal amount not to exceed $2,000,000 and the pledge by the Advertising and Promotion Commission of the City of a two percent (2%) hotel, motel and restaurant gross receipts tax to finance constructing and equipping a public recreational facility in the City. _______
SECTION 3. All collections from the hotel, motel and restaurant gross receipts tax will be pledged by the Commission, subject only to existing liens, to secure payment of the Bonds.
SECTION 4. The election shall be held and conducted and the vote cast and the results declared in the manner provided for municipal elections under the election laws of the State of Arkansas now in effect. Only qualified voters of the City shall have the right to vote at the election. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to give notice of the election by one advertisement in a newspaper having a general circulation with the City, the publication to be not less than ten (10) days prior to the date of the election.

Freedom of Information Act video and references:

http://www.nw-ar.com/foia/foia_video.html

Arkansas Attorney General FOIA page:

http://ag.arkansas.gov/laws_acts.html#foia

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

SHERWOOD PUBLIC MEETING Monday, Jan. 21 - 6:30 p.m.


(To view a larger map, click on the image.)

Sherwood's Annexation Public Meeting will be Monday, January 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Gravel Ridge. Sherwood Mayor Virginia Hillman and other City Officials and Department Heads will be on hand to answer questions and provide information. For additional information, go to:
http://www.gravelridge.blogspot.com/
____________________________________
Jacksonville meetings were held January 7 at the First Baptist Church in Gravel Ridge and January 14 at the Jacksonville Community Center. If you live in the proposed annexation area, you should have received a notice from Pat O'Brien, Pulaski County Circuit /County Clerk. If you are not a registered voter as of January 7, you will not be allowed to vote in the Jacksonville Annexation Election on Tuesday, February 5. This is also the date of the Arkansas Presidential Preferential Primary Election.
___________________________
Call 340-8683 to check your voter registration status, or check online. Pulaski County Voter Information: http://www.pulaskiclerk.com/search.asp
AR Secretary of State Voter Info (with polling place & voting location):
Sherwood's Special Election date is Tuesday, March 11, 2008.