Cherokee Village Mayor Russell Stokes

There continues to be an upward climb in the number of covid-19 cases in our region. As always observe appropriate health habits, be alert to situations which may be conducive to exposure, and if experiencing virus symptoms get tested. Remember your personal physician is your best resource. Just be aware of your surroundings and the potential for contacting the virus.

If having remodeling or storm repairs done be sure to obtain appropriate permits from City Hall. Also, ascertain that required inspections of the work are completed and debris is disposed of properly. If you have questions or concerns contact our P&Z office. We also have a list of licensed contractors that are eligible to do work in our city.

At the June City Council meeting a council member vacancy was announced for Ward 2. If you reside in that ward and are interested in filling this vacancy, there is an informational packet available at City Hall which explains the process to be considered for this position. Also, as this is an election year there will be four council seats, city clerk, and mayor offices to be voted upon in November. Candidate paperwork is available from the county clerk’s office or you can do an on-line search under First-class city, Mayor-Council Municipal Government in Arkansas to obtain this information, required documents and the filing deadline as a candidate.

Additionally, a controversial topic of being permitted to raise chickens within the city limits was discussed. An ordinance addressing this issue will be introduced at the July meeting of City Council. Currently, raising or housing farm animals is prohibited under the city’s zoning code as well as by the Bills of Assurance. This proposed ordinance to be voted upon by the City Council would eliminate the prohibition under the current zoning code. However, it would not void the stipulations in the Bills of Assurance.

By the time you read this column we will have celebrated our nation’s Independence Day. Hopefully, you will have enjoyed a safe and fun-filled July 4th and partook of the activities offered in our city by attending the Volunteer Firefighter’s Pancake Breakfast, or watching the Boat Parade on Lake Thunderbird, and capping off your evening observing the fireworks over the lake.