Dierks City Council Reviews Rate Study, Approves Employee Work Policy, and Prepares for Upcoming Meetings

The Dierks City Council met earlier this week to address a range of topics impacting city operations, infrastructure, and future planning. Among the most pressing issues discussed was the recent utility rate study, which council members revealed contained inaccuracies.

According to city officials, the study improperly combined water and sewer figures, leading to incorrect results that could not be relied upon for decision-making.

As a result, Rural Water has been tasked with conducting a new and corrected rate study to better reflect the true cost structure of the city’s utilities.

In other business, the council unanimously approved a motion (6-0) allowing a city employee to perform carpentry work after hours, provided it does not interfere with their official duties. This clarification ensures transparency and supports local workforce opportunities.

Progress continues at the city’s parks, where council members were informed that lighting for the softball and baseball fields should be operational by the end of the week—a welcome development for local sports teams and community events.

Looking ahead, the city is preparing for an important meeting on August 20 with representatives from the USDA and the Arkansas Rural Water Association (ARWA) to discuss the possibility of Dierks taking over their system. Council members expressed caution, noting the proposal would be “a hard sell” and that significant consideration is required before moving forward.

More updates are expected following the August 20 meeting.