Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Informal meeting gives residents time with Siloam board members
SILOAM SPRINGS — Four city board members held an informal meeting at the Siloam Springs Public Library on Saturday to hear what the residents have to say.
City board members Bob Coleman, Mindy Hunt, Lesa Rissler, Marla Sappington and Carol Smiley, along with state Rep. Robin Lundstrum, R-District 87, met with residents to hear any concerns or ideas they may have but may feel intimidated to address at a regular board meeting, Rissler said.
“We feel like it’s the citizens that need to tell us what needs to go in the city,” said Sappington. “And we want to hear your voice.”
About 40 people attended the meeting, according to Rissler.
Among the issues discussed were drunken drivers who leave the casino and speed down West Tulsa Street, the concept of using Facebook to connect with residents, beautification of East Main Street, and the need for a barrier around the water feature at the Welcome to Siloam Springs sign at the intersection of U.S. 412 and East Main Street.
During the meeting, Rissler also explained Siloam
Springs’ form of government — the city administrator form — and how it works. She said hiring an administrator to run the city enables the board to select someone who has the skills and qualifications to run the city efficiently and effectively.
Rissler said in a mayoral form of government, anyone can run for mayor whether they are qualified to run a city or not.
In this form of government the mayor presides at all board meetings and is recognized as the head of the city for ceremonial purposes as well as signing contracts, bonds and other official city documents, Rissler said.
Rissler said she plans to hold the meetings quarterly and the next one will be May 2. She encouraged residents to contact her or any other board member if they have any concerns.
Marc Hayot may be reached by email at mhayot@nwadg.com.