The acquisition of a backhoe loader and wheeled excavator for the Street Department was the primary topic of the Pine Bluff City Council’s Aug. 5 regular meeting.
Acknowledging the urgent need for this equipment in maintaining the town’s streets, the council explored the option of issuing lease agreements to fund the purchases. The backhoe loader, a 2024 model, will be obtained for $129,070, while the 2024 M314-07 Wheeled Excavator, will cost $277,400. Both instruments will come from Riggs Caterpillar.
In addition to equipment acquisitions, the council addressed several other key issues. A resolution was passed waiving competitive selection and approving a payment of $7,950 to Tandem Care Inc., for consulting services and preparation of a grant application. This decision was made considering the firm’s prior experience working with the Pine Bluff Housing Authority and its familiarity with the city’s circumstances.
Mayor Shirley Washington said St. John’s Apartments will undergo demolition, necessitating the relocation of its residents. Notably, the residents have yet to receive any official notification regarding this matter. Concerned for the residents living there, council member Steven Mays Sr. wanted to know why the residents had not been notified.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“We are not at that point,” said Washington. “They’re not our residents. They are living there under the current owners of that property.”
Washington stated that the residents will receive adequate notification from the property’s owners when the appropriate time arrives. Furthermore, Washington emphasized the concerning condition of the property, describing it as deplorable.
“This grant will allow us the opportunity to work with the housing authority to demolish that building and not only build a new apartment complex in the St. John area but also renovate in a two-mile radius where that apartment is,” she said.
Citizens residing in the area have not yet been informed because the approximately $50 million grant has not yet received approval, per Washington.
“This is all in motion. Nothing has been approved,” she said. “Once we get to that stage they will be properly notified.”
Due to the numerous phases associated with the grant and the design phase, council member Glen Brown Jr. indicated that the actual relocation could take months or even years to complete.
“They still should be notified,” said Mays, describing the residents as handicapped and senior citizens. “You going to put me out somewhere, let me know.”
Mays was assured by Washington that they would receive sufficient notice and assistance in a timely manner.
Mays voted against the measure.
The council also authorized an agreement with J.R. Fox Company Inc., to conduct construction work for the University Drive Sewer Project. The contract, valued at $1,555,886, aims to address necessary sewer improvements in the area.
Furthermore, a resolution was passed authorizing a contract with 1911 Construction for building new football and soccer fields in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park. This project, costing $298,000, will introduce the first fields of this kind in a city park, enhancing recreational opportunities for residents.
The council also made appointments to local boards. Joey Gieringer was appointed to the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Port Authority, and Reneta M. Harper’s appointment to the Advertising and Promotion Commission was confirmed.