Bella Vista Council Highlights Financial Gains and Safety Proclamation
BELLA VISTA, AR — The Bella Vista City Council convened for its regular meeting on March 25, 2024, led by Mayor John Flynn, who called the session to order promptly at 6:00 PM. All council members were in attendance, including Jerry Snow, Wendy Hughes, Jim Wozniak, Larry Wilms, Doug Fowler, and Craig Honchell, along with Clerk Wanda Lepillez Krug.
The meeting began with the traditional recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. During the public comment segment, no residents had signed up to speak, resulting in a brief and uneventful period with no council replies necessary.
The council swiftly moved to approve the minutes from the previous meeting held on February 24, 2024. Council Member Fowler motioned for approval, seconded by Council Member Honchell, and the motion passed unanimously with a 6-0 vote.
Mayor Flynn took the opportunity to highlight Building Safety Month, reading the proclamation for May 2024. This annual observance emphasizes the importance of building safety and resilience in the community.
The mayor also presented the financial report for February 2024, revealing positive economic indicators for Bella Vista. He reported a significant 10.5% increase in total operating revenue compared to the previous year. The county sales tax revenue rose by 7.4%, while the city sales tax revenue saw a 5.4% increase. Additionally, total operating expenses for the year to date were $443,000 under budget, reflecting strong fiscal management and consistent financial health.
All reports, including the financial details, are available on the Bella Vista City website for public review and were provided to council members prior to the meeting.
To streamline the proceedings, Mayor Flynn requested a motion to suspend the rules and read all ordinances and resolutions on the agenda by title only. Council Member Wilms made the motion, seconded by Council Member Fowler, and it passed unanimously.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism for Bella Vista’s fiscal future and a commitment to maintaining safety and transparency within the community.
