The city is attempting to apply for a Arkansas parks and recreation program grant, which could include several local park projects such as lights for the soccer fields, instalation of bleacher covers at all local parks, batting cages for year-round use of ballfields, and possibly a co-ed softball field.

Someone suggested the city complete the Jordan Park walking track.  (Repairs to the Jordan Park basketball court are currently underway.)

The earlier amphitheater grant has been approved, and will provide funds to improve handicap access for McCloy and Jordan parks.

The Albert E Williams Marker at Jordan Park, similar to the park dedication marker at Western Pines, was discussed; as was the need to improve the tennis courts by the football field.  The rebuilding of the Sadie Johnson Center was also mentioned.  An adult softball league needs a softball field.

Additional use of Jordan Park baseball fields was also discussed before the meeting adjourned.

The city will uphold five fundamental policies: safety, quality, productivity, effectiveness with others and attendance. These policies will allow the city to function in an efficient manner that will save time and money. This administration will make every attempt to save money both as a safety net and for future generations to maintain our city. Our goal is to stretch every public dollar to achieve maximum benefit for the City.

In 2010 new projects were completed to improve the city. Three new pavilions were constructed in the parks and new bathrooms were built in McCloy Park. Two new bridges were rebuilt that were damaged by flooding. New playground timbers were added in the parks and a new adult softball field was begun at the Sports Complex. The drainage problem in McCloy Park was corrected.

In 2011 projects that have already begun will be completed and it is our goal to construct a new girl’s softball field.

City Hall maintenance issues (includes Fire and Police departments) will be analyzed by professional Engineers and Architects. Once the assessment process is complete we will start the restoration process. None of this will happen overnight as these are lingering long time problems.

Our goal is to make Monticello the favorite living, shopping, and recreational City in South East Arkansas. We will need the cooperation and assistance of all our citizens to help us clean up and improve our HOME. The city will be cleaner and safer and all our community, both local and visitors, will benefit.

I am proud to be your Mayor for the great city of Monticello, “The Natural Place to Live and Prosper”.

Sincerely,

Mayor Allen Maxwell