North Little Rock council delays vote on special-use permit for Rose City event center after residents raise noise, parking and security concerns

The North Little Rock City Council postponed final action on O25-07, an ordinance seeking a special use to allow an event center at 305 Phillips Road in the Rose City neighborhood, after multiple residents raised concerns and council members asked staff and the applicant to return with written amendments.

The request, presented as an ordinance on second reading, drew three residents to speak in favor and several neighbors who opposed or sought stronger conditions. Council Member Robinson said she would prepare amendments on operational hours and other conditions and that the item would be brought back at the next council meeting for formal action.

Why it matters: The proposal would introduce a new private events venue in a residential neighborhood where neighbors say sound carries and traffic is already constrained. Council members pressed for clear parking, fire-safety and security plans before approving a permanent special use.

Residents and supporters voiced competing views. Darlene Worthen, who identified herself as a Rose City business owner and a member of a local outreach ministry, said, "I stand for the event center," and described…