Nashville City Council Votes to Remove Damaged Traffic Light at Main and Hempstead

The Nashville City Council voted Monday afternoon to permanently remove the traffic light at the intersection of Main and Hempstead streets after the signal was damaged by lightning.

Mayor Larry Dunaway told aldermen that the lightning strike destroyed the controller, leaving city workers able only to set the light to flashing mode. He said the controller is obsolete and would cost between $60,000 and $70,000 to repair or replace. Instead, the city will install stop signs on Hempstead Street, while Main Street will remain a through route.

In other business, aldermen approved the city’s 2025 millage rate, maintaining the current rate of 3.6 mills for both real estate and personal property.

The council also passed an ordinance transferring the Nashville Fire Relief and Pension Fund to the Arkansas Local Police and Fire Retirement System (LOPFI), in compliance with state law.

City Finance Director Kimberly Green reported that the city’s September revenues exceeded expenses by $45,575.50. She also noted the purchase of a ¾-ton truck from York Gary for $28,829, with a $40,829 transfer to the Street Department to cover that cost and other related expenses.

Green added that city sales tax collections were up 4% in September 2025 compared to the same month last year.

Mayor Dunaway said he plans to interview seven applicants for the city’s open animal control position later this week.

The council also scheduled budget meetings for November 20 and December 11, both at 6 p.m.