Roberts Reports Letters Having Impact on Unkempt Properties

RISON - During the Rison City Council meeting Tuesday evening, Mayor Charles Roberts reported that letters sent to owners of unkempt properties have been producing some results.According to Roberts, two property owners have already cut grass.“We’re seeing positive effects of the letters,” Roberts said.He noted that there are still some properties that need to be addressed, but it is taking time to track down contacts for the absentee owners.In a previous meeting, the issue of large trucks driving on Main Street was tabled. Roberts informed the council Tuesday that he plans to place new signage directing trucks to the designated truck route along Pine Street.Joe Freyer, utilities director for the City of Rison, shared with the council that four sluice gates are currently being installed at the new water plant that is under construction.He also gave an update on the ongoing water line replacement project across the city, noting that crews were currently working on lines along Second Street, but would soon cross over Main Street. With the new lines, new fire hydrants are also being installed.Freyer also reported a storm drain at 201 Pine Street had failed recently causing a sink hole. He said a new drain has been installed and the hole is being filled.Mayor Roberts informed the council that Cleveland County Sheriff Jack Rodgers had approached him asking if the city would like the Sheriff’s Department to work up a new budget for covering the city.According to Roberts, Rodgers wanted to confirm the city’s interest in renewal of their agreement before preparing a budget.The City of Rison currently has an agreement with the Sheriff’s Department for two deputies to be on call for the city.The council voted in favor of having Rodgers present a budget.Council member Rodney Reed noted that this would be the last renewal under Sheriff Rodgers, as the next renewal term would be aft...