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Newport council hears plan to consider $88,000 seized funds for police vehicle
Summary
At the Nov. 3 meeting, Lt. Mark Harmon told the City Council that about $88,000 in seized funds processed through the courts is to be deposited into Newport’s General Fund and asked the council to consider using the money to buy a patrol vehicle and other equipment.
At its Nov. 3 meeting in the Municipal Courtroom, the Newport City Council was told that roughly $88,000 seized about a year ago has been processed through the court system and is to be deposited into the city’s General Fund. Lieutenant Mark Harmon of the Police Department asked the council to consider using those funds to purchase a vehicle and other items for the department.
Mayor Ratliffe also told the council that electronic copies of the September 2025 financial statements for multiple city funds were distributed with council packets and invited members to send questions to City Clerk/Treasurer Hembrey. The mayor reported October sales-tax receipts of $181,797 for city sales tax, $126,241 for county sales tax and $90,899 for NEDC sales tax.
Council business included a procedural vote to approve the minutes of the Oct. 6, 2025 meeting. Council Member Edwards moved to approve the minutes; Council Member Allen seconded the motion, which carried 7-0 with votes from Allen, Edwards, Falwell, Green, Lake, Mansko and May.
No formal action was taken on Harmon’s request at the meeting; the report was presented for the council’s consideration. The council did not vote on allocating the seized funds during this session. The mayor and staff may return with options or recommendations at a future meeting.
Other items on the agenda included a public recognition of work at Remmel Park and a request from Council Member Michael Allen that the city contact the Arkansas Department of Transportation about removing the old White River Bridge; Mayor Ratliffe said he would coordinate with City Attorney Pettie and seek a draft letter for the next meeting.
