The mayors of Mississippi County came together on Tuesday to discuss positive changes in their communities, as well as present issues of concern to the group and Mississippi County Judge Randy Carney.
Blytheville Mayor James Sanders said he was prepared to bring before the city council a resolution pertaining to an additional tax, which would be used to pay the city's looming IRS debt. While the tax issue is hanging heavily in the city, Sanders said that positive things are also going on in Blytheville.
The Cleaner Safer Blytheville initiative recently held its second cleanup date, in which more than 600 citizens participated. Volunteers from local churches have now done major cleanup work in high-crime areas, and have one more date scheduled for the end of October. The events, according to Sanders, are "restoring pride in the community and helping to build up the community."
Mayor Dickie Kennemore of Osceola reported the continued construction of Beckmann Volmer, a new plant which will provide the area with 300 new jobs. The city of Osceola will also be home to a new Walmart Super Store in the spring of 2012. A problem Osceola's city government is currently dealing with is the issue of high utilities in homes that are not properly weatherized.
In Keiser, a JAG grant of $3,500 was recently used to purchase new computer equipment for the Police Department and City Hall, and the city is expecting a grant for a new police car. Expected money from FEMA has also been received.
The Johnny Cash Home in Dyess is still undergoing improvements, but is open and has already received bookings for several international tour groups. A benefit concert which was recently held brought in a $310,000 profit for the historical site, and a new sprinkler system is currently underworks.
The Dyess post office is also on the postal service's list for a closure study; the town has a public hearing with a postal representative on Oct. 28.
Mayor Sissie Ross of Joiner reported a $1,000 grant received by the city for fire department equipment, and the city is working on a grant for a new fire truck. Approximately $10,000 has been spent on bridge and street improvements in the city.
In Leachville, several new businesses and homes have gone up, and a grant is in the works for two new tornado sirens.
According to Judge Carney, the county calls the mayors together every two or three months so that they can work together and "focus on positive changes along with helping concerns."
sharris@blythevillecourier.com