School, city work together

School superintendent Rick Neal appeared before the City Council to connect with city officials and “put a face” to the superintendent, he said Tuesday, Feb. 19, during the regular City Council meeting. Neal told city officials that he and other school officials are working with School Resource Officer Lon Brown and Police Chief Tim Ledbetter to im-

prove school security.

“Changes are coming, changes will come, to keep our kids safe. SRO Brown has done a phenomenal job; he’s done a lot of hard work and a great job communicating with building principals. He’s given a lot of thought in creating a safer environment for our kids,” Neal said. “Our board has done a great job to create a culture of a safe school district.”

“We have a great working relationship with the city. I want to thank everyone, the mayor, the chiefs ....” Neal said.

City officials also approved a resolution changing speed limits, increasing the speed limit on Weston Street to 35 miles per hour south of McCulloch and changing the speed limits on Lee Town Road.

Chief Ledbetter told the council that after evaluation of the streets and traffic, it was decided to increase speed limits in those areas. The vote was split with council members Ray Easley and Nadine Telgemeier voting against the increase and council members Bob Cottingham and Steve Guthrie voting in favor of it. Mayor Jackie Crabtree voted for it, breaking the tie. Both Easley and Telgemeier expressed concern about the area around the ballfields on the south end of Weston Street.

All streets not otherwise posted will remain 15 miles per hour.

In other business, council members:

• Received a favorable report on the city’s water/ wastewater department audit.

• Approved an interlocal agreement between the city and Benton County for emergency medical services.

• Agreed to amend the city’s zoning code to accommodate the sale of alcohol.

• Reviewed a draft to establish regulations, requirements, restrictions, fees and taxes for controlled beverages.