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Monticello City Council approved speed humps for Willis Street, amended the city Advertising and Promotion Commission budget, heard an update on pool renovation plans and filled a Ward 4 council vacancy during its regular meeting Thursday, Feb. 26.
Mayor Jason Akers called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. Following prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, council members approved minutes from the previous meeting.
The council approved a resolution amending the 2026 Advertising and Promotion Commission fund budget.
During discussion, officials said the amendment moved funds to account for the purchase of a camera, which needed to be classified as a capital outlay item, and added employee insurance costs that were overlooked during the original budgeting process. The measure passed without further questions.
Council members also approved the installation of speed humps on Willis Street in the area between Gabbert and Main streets.
City officials said residents submitted a petition that met the ordinance requirement for signatures, but because both ward council members did not agree to proceed administratively, the request was brought before the full council.
Residents who spoke described vehicles traveling at high speeds, failing to stop at stop signs and, in some cases, leaving the roadway and damaging yards, mailboxes and other property. Several also cited pedestrian traffic in the area, including children walking to the park and pool.
City officials noted enforcement measures, including radar, have been used in the area and would continue, but said staffing limitations make it difficult to maintain a constant presence.
After discussion, the council approved placing the speed humps. City staff indicated installation would begin as soon as possible, with locations subject to spacing requirements.
The council addressed multiple nuisance property items, including:
510 W. Shelton: A resolution declaring the property a nuisance and ordering abatement within 30 days was tabled, after officials reported making contact with the property owner, who said she was obtaining a demolition quote and requested additional time.
616 E. McCloy: The council tabled the matter for 30 days after officials said an interested party asked to appear at the next meeting.
703 E. Jackson: Council members approved a resolution declaring the property a nuisance. Officials noted the property had been discussed previously and that circumstances at the location had changed.
The council heard a brief presentation from Jimmy Brown of Burton Pools and Spas, who discussed renovation options for the city pool, including adding swim lanes and upgrading equipment.
Brown said the project would require engineering plans, estimated at about $20,000, and would include replacing or upgrading filtration and pump systems to handle an increased water volume, new plumbing and a new stainless-steel gutter system.
During discussion, officials referenced an estimated pool renovation total of approximately $1.064 million, including engineering. They also discussed splash pad options, noting those would be a separate project and not included in the pool total, with costs varying depending on features and design.
The council accepted the resignation of Mark Tiner, who said he was relocating outside Ward 4 and vacated his seat effective at 3 p.m. that day.
City Attorney Whit Barton told the council Arkansas law requires a vacancy be filled at the next regular council meeting after it occurs. Mayor Akers recommended Allan Nichols, CEO of Mainline Health, and the council approved a resolution appointing Gary Allan Nichols to serve as Ward 4, Position 1 council member through Dec. 31, 2026.
With no further business or public comment, the meeting adjourned.
