A new auto parts business soon will open in Texarkana, Ark., thanks to action taken by the city Board of Directors at its meeting Tuesday.
The board voted to approve a set of three ordinances to rezone property in the 1600 block of East Ninth Street owned by Tri-State Metal and abandon city rights of way on the property. The measures allow Tri-State to install a new electric crane and operate a "you pick it" discount auto parts business there.
"I think that it (the business) will be a service to the city," Ward 4 Director Travis Odom said.
Directors unanimously passed an ordinance authorizing purchase of new Microsoft software licenses for the city at a cost of $30,808.80 a year for three years. The board fast-tracked the measure, reading it all three required times in one meeting, rather than in three consecutive meetings, and then voting on it. Directors also approved an emergency clause making the ordinance effective immediately.
The board also fast-tracked and voted, 6-1, to approve an ordinance that increases annual alcohol sales permit fees. The city's maximum alcohol beverage permit fee-charged to establishments that serve beer and wine by the drink-will increase to $350. The retail liquor permit fee will increase to $425.
Finance Director TyRhonda Henderson said the changes will affect 15 liquor stores and 72 other businesses including convenience stores and restaurants that sell alcohol. The fee increases will generate an additional $9,500 in revenue for the city's general fund, according to a summary accompanying the ordinance.
In objection to speeding the voting process, Ward 2 Director Laney Harris voted against the ordinance. He said he was not against changing the fees but thought the public, especially any business owners who would be affected, deserved more opportunity to express their opinions about the measure.
The board's next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 6.