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Benton planning area on agenda |
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Monday, 24 March 2008 |
A proposed resolution adopting a comprehensive plan for the Benton planning area is on the City Council’s agenda tonight.
Cities of the first class — a designation applying to Benton — have the power to adopt and enforce plans for the “coordinated, adjusted and harmonious” development of the municipality, according to the proposed resolution.
The measure stems from studies and meetings beginning as far back as January 2005.
A planning studies report was completed in January 2006, then the city’s planning area was substantially enlarged and special meetings were held. Planning efforts were directed toward updating the city’s land use plan, the community facilities plan and the master street plan.
Numerous public meetings and citizen involvement in 2006 and 2007 focused on economic development strategies; an interim master street plan; land use strategies; updating existing data for the expanded planning area, the natural and built environment, community facilities and services; vision statement; goals and objectives; solicitation and review of public comment on the draft plan and subsequent modifications of that plan.
The proposed resolution notes that the Benton Planning Commission provided more than 15 days’ public notice for public hearings that were held May 3-5, 2007. On Nov. 13, 2007, the commission unanimously voted to adopt the plan and certify it to the City Council.
In another matter, Mayor Rick Holland is scheduled to present his state of the city address tonight.
At the start of the meeting, Cole Wineland iwll be recognized as Youth of the Month by the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, and a special commendation will be awarded to Emily Noles, a member of the youth council.
Benton police Officer Brian Bigelow will be recognized as Employee of the Month. Bigelow is the second city employee to receive the recognition since the program was initiated under the leadership of Alderman Bill Donnor.
Bigelow will be commended for recently saving a couple from their burning house.
Following are other matters on the council agenda:
•A request from Tawanna and Mike Newcomb for a medical mobile home hardship renewal at 3215 Silica Heights Road. The Newcombs provide care for Verna Newcomb
•Requests to approve change orders on a street improvement project on Winchester Drive and a drainage improvement project in the Troutt addition.
The agenda also notes that reports are possible from aldermen heading the following committees: Personnel, Donnor; Animal Control, Larry Wolf; and Health and Safety, Steve Lee.
In addition to the committee reports, Alderman Brad Moore is scheduled to present a report from the city’s Advertising and Promotion Commission, and Alderman Jerry Ponder plans to present a report from the Public Utilities Commission.
The meeting begins at 7 at Benton Municipal Complex, 114 S. East St.
Council meetings are open to the public.
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