Dierks City Council passes resolution to apply for a “Fun Park” grant

Monday night, the Dierks City Council passed a resolution stating the city plans to apply for a ‘Fun Park’ grant through the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

Mayor Ronnie Cogburn reported the city had a applied for a ‘Fun Park’ grant for the past two years, but was not approved. He said those grants were for the construction of ball fields, however, this grant would be used to purchase playground equipment that would be installed at the Dierks City Park. He said the city would apply for a $100,000 grant. He said the city will hold a community workday at the park to help improve their chances of getting the grant.

Council members reviewed the progress of the 2024 city budget and the water/sewer audit. Cogburn said the city received a clean audit.

City Attorney Dustin Bissell informed the council that he had filed a Freedom of Information request with the board of the North Howard County Rural Water Association. Bissell said the association must respond within 3-days. He said if they do not respond within 3-days, the city of Dierks could file a lawsuit against the water association in the Howard County Circuit Court.

Mayor Cogburn reported the North Howard County Rural Water Association paid their May bill on July 8, but was almost 30-days past due on their current bill.

Council members also passed a motion to open a special checking account for the water grant project.