The Rison City Council unanimously approved a resolution allowing Mayor Charles Roberts to pursue a $500,000 federal Delta Regional Authority (DRA) grant to rebuild the city’s aging sewer lift stations and replace approximately 1,300 feet of sewer line. The application faces a tight August 24 deadline.
This grant is a rare opportunity because Rison’s official low-to-moderate income (LMI) rating fell to 47.9% following the 2020 census, disqualifying the city from many federal programs. Believing the true LMI remains above the 50% threshold, Roberts plans to launch a door-to-door survey. Because this rating recently blocked the Rison Fire Department from securing a grant for a new truck, volunteer firefighters will help survey the department’s 1,014-address service area.
In other news, Utilities Director Gene Norton reported that Rison’s water wells and overall system are running smoothly after a recent $7 million upgrade. Additionally, 30-year Water Office Manager Rhonda Fletcher requested a salary adjustment for her position to help attract a qualified replacement and boost her retirement. Fletcher plans to retire within five years and hopes to begin training a successor soon. No council action was taken on her request.