The City of Redfield is experiencing the first of what Jefferson County Judge Mike Holcomb thinks may be increasing growing pains, Redfield City Attorney Brandon Robinson shared at a July 7 city council meeting here.
    Holcomb asked Robinson to advise Mayor George Sanders and council members that while Holcomb “anticipates tremendous growth” in the Redfield area during the next decade, he’s worried that the city’s infrastructure might become “strained.” The county judge offered some advice about an on-going road issue, saying the city would be wise not to “maintain” anything that isn’t city property or to which the city doesn’t possess easement rights.
    Sanders indicated he would begin a process to follow Holcomb’s recommendation.
    Meanwhile, the council took some pro-active steps of its own.
    Alderwoman Diann Smith pointed out that the state is seeking a site for a processing center. She proposed that the former Charles Rivers Laboratories site might be a good fit for such a venture. The business, located at 100 Boone St., had recently employed about 100 persons before closing in February.
    Smith suggested that Redfield should begin partnering with the Southeast Arkansas Economic Development District in Pine Bluff on developing businesses in Redfield.
    After some discussion on the Charles Rivers building, Alderman Tony Lawhon volunteered to investigate the building’s availability and determine if it might suit the state’s desires.
    Smith also inquired on the status of a proposed new city hall. Sanders said he would arrange a meeting with a building committee and agreed with Smith’s recommendation that the city should “tap into” any state or federal development monies that might be available.
    Redfield Volunteer Fire Department Chief Dennis McFatridge reported that the agency responded to 19 rescue calls and successfully fought a brush fire during June. He said work is continuing on the acquisition of a new fire truck.
    Police Chief Jack Wakefield said his department made 14 arrests in June, worked four traffic accidents and responded to 28 assistance requests from other agencies.
    The council approved a high bid of $600 on the sale of a 2001 Chevrolet Impala that had been used as a police vehicle. A minimum bid was not received on a second police car, a 2003 Dodge Intrepid.
    Smith, chairwoman of the city’s park committee, announced that she had been in contact with state Sen. Jerry Taylor and state Rep. Toni Bradford on possible state funding of proposed park improvements.
    Sanders commented on the city’s July 4 celebration, which he deemed as a “huge success.” He recognized and thanked members of the Redfield Community Services Association, which sponsored the Independence Day events, and other volunteers for their “hard work and great efforts.”