Rosston City Council Welcomes New Member, Approves Budget Measures and Infrastructure Updates

Rosston, AR — October 13, 2025 The Rosston City Council convened Monday evening (10/13) for its regularly scheduled meeting, led by Mayor Samuel Quarles. The session opened with a moment of unity as attendees recited the Lord’s Prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

A highlight of the evening was the official appointment of Cynthia Page to the council. Page, newly introduced to the community, fills a vacant seat and joins fellow council members Emily Evans, Kathy Dillard, Barbara Heard, Johnny Kelly, and Treasurer/Recorder Tia Blakely. Financial Administrator and Clerk, Melissa Hicks, was also present.

The council reviewed the city’s budget report, which included updates on the replacement of the school transmitter and the reconstruction of the building housing it. Both were damaged in a recent fire. Insurance funds covered the cost of repairs and replacement, and the council approved the distribution of surplus funds to the local school district.

Street work and paving projects were another major topic. Mayor Quarles acknowledged the challenges posed by limited funding but reaffirmed the city’s commitment to pursuing additional resources once current projects are completed. Public comments later in the meeting sought clarification on these efforts, which the council addressed in detail.

In recognition of her performance and expanded responsibilities for the upcoming year, the council approved a modest salary increase for Financial Administrator Melissa Hicks. Additionally, year-end bonuses were granted to council members as a gesture of appreciation for their service throughout 2025.

The council unanimously passed Ordinance 1013 of 2025, which establishes a 5-mil tax on real and personal property. The ordinance authorizes the Nevada County Sheriff, Danny Martin, to collect the tax on behalf of the city.

Looking ahead, the council discussed the 2026 city budget, recommending slight increases in several line items to account for inflation and rising utility costs. The budget is expected to be finalized and approved by mid-November. With no further questions from the public or council, the meeting was adjourned.