Farmington Mayor Gives ‘State Of City’ Address

Penn Outlines Goals For 2012

FARMINGTON — Mayor Ernie Penn reviewed the year of 2011 and outlined goals for 2012 as part of his annual “State of the City” address at Monday’s City Council meeting.

He listed accomplishments from each department of the city, including the police and fire departments, public works, Farmington Public Library and parks and recreation.

The public works department completed drainage improvements on eight city streets and roads, paved two gravel roads and repaired other streets damaged by flooding.

Public works employees also have been working on the new sports complex to help save the city money.

Library circulation increased by 5.4 percent, from 66,078 items in 2010 to 69,614 items in 2011. The library has replaced 16 public computers and three staff computers.

The police department received two grants totaling $26,000 in 2011.

The funds were used to purchase a new police vehicle and outfit a police car with radar and lights.

Penn pointed out the police department has not had a turnover during the past four years, adding, “Our city is very fortunate to have the experience and leadership we have in the police department.”

The fire department responded to a record 760 calls in 2011.

For the first time in 2011, the city hired a full- time director for the parks and recreation department. Jenna Innis will be in charge of overseeing the new sports complex, which is scheduled to be completed and ready for the summer ball program in March.

The park also has a walking trail, playground and pavilion.

“There is no doubt that this facility will be one of the best in northwest Arkansas,” Penn said.

For 2012, the city will add another full-time firefighter position and complete its strategic planning process.

Penn said the city is financially sound for 2012, but the financial challenge will be to continue to look for ways to reduce expenses and find other revenue sources.

“I feel that it is important as elected officials that we maintain a positive outlook for the future,” Penn said. “In today’s economic times, our citizens need to be assured that we are providing quality services and maintaining a government of honest, caring and trustworthy representatives. We must continue to listen to our citizens, encourage volunteerism and provide them with the necessary venues to communicate with our city government.”