$14,000 awarded for census outreach
PINE BLUFF -- The Arkansas Community Foundation has awarded the city a $14,000 grant to assist with it census outreach program.
The funds will support efforts to reach hard-to-count people for the 2020 census, according to Tiffany Copeland, grant writer for the city.
Data from the decennial census is used to determine how half a trillion dollars in federal funding will be distributed to state and local governments.
"The decennial census provides a uniquely comprehensive data source," said Mayor Shirley Washington, in a statement. "Its accuracy affects not only political representation, but also funding to schools, hospitals, roads, public transportation, and grants."
A "Census Town Hall" meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday at the city convention center. Residents can learn how they can help ensure that they are counted and that the city receives adequate federal funding.
Tickets available for Unity Breakfast
The annual Unity Breakfast is scheduled for 7-8 a.m. at the Pine Bluff convention center on Nov. 14. Food, entertainment, and door prizes will be offered. Tickets are available in the mayor's office for $20 each.
Fire chief named trustee for college
Fire Chief Shauwn Howell has been appointed to the board of trustees of Southeast Arkansas College by Gov. Asa Hutchinson, according to a news release from the governor's office.
Howell's appointment expires July 1, 2026, according to the release.
Howell will replace Albert Lowery, Jr., the current vice chairman of the board.
Athletic trainer fills spot on state board
Timothy Atkinson of White Hall has been appointed to the state Board of Athletic Training by Gov. Asa Hutchinson, according to a news release from the governor's office.
Atkinson is the 2018 recipient of the National Athletic Trainers' Association Award, according to the Arkansas Athletic Trainers' Association website.
Atkinson's appointment will end Jan. 14, the release said. He will replace Michael Neal on the board.
City Council passes laws, resolutions
At its meeting Monday, the Pine Bluff City Council:
• Approved an ordinance amending building regulations in the city to ensure coordination between the Historic District Commission and enforcement of city rules concerning the issuance of permits in the Downtown Historic District.
• Adopted an ordinance establishing a policy on the use of intranasal naloxone, an antidote for narcotic overdoses.
• Approved an ordinance waiving competitive selection and authorizing the city to come up with an agreement with Bob Ladd & Associates Inc. to lease equipment needed to maintain the city's golf courses.
• Approved a resolution appointing Leigh Cockrum to the Historic District Commission.
• Approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to sign an agreement with Entergy Arkansas for installation of energy-efficient equipment at the Curtis Merrill Center as part of the utility's City Smart program.
• Approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to sign an agreement with Pine Bluff Cable to install an extension of cable television service for the Topps Building and along Fluker Street.
• Adopted a resolution authorizing the mayor to convey ownership of a strip of land east of U.S. 79B between West Pullen Avenue and Vaugine Street to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Little Rock.
State Desk on 10/27/2019