LEPC talks highway safety, fire dues

The Newton County Local Emergency Planning Committee met Monday, morning, Jan 13, at the Jasper Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Since no old or new business was on the agenda, current events became the topic of discussion.
A concern over increased truck traffic on the state highways surrounding Boxley Valley was brought up at the monthly meeting of the Newton County Quorum Court held Jan. 6. A group of constituents were present. Speaking for the group was a long-time resident of Mossville. The JPs and other county officials were informed about the growing number of trucks traveling through the valley via state Highways 103, 43 and 21. Even though there are check brake areas situated on the steep grades of those highways the frequency of out-of-controlled trucks resulting in damage and injuries is growing. The quorum court was asked if it could relate the residents' concerns for their safety to the Arkansas Department of Transportation and to do something to further control or restrict truck traffic in the area.
JP Terry Clark, who lives in the area, confirmed the peoples' concerns with his own observations. He suggested the quorum court pass a resolution setting out the problem and asking ARDOT to come up with some remedies or solutions. County Judge Warren Campbell said he would contact the district engineer's office in Harrison and learn what information should be included in the resolution to ensure action from the highway department. It was also suggested that truck traffic be limited to local deliveries only. Sheriff Glenn Wheeler was in attendance and he said later that he contacted the highway police asking for added surveillance and enforcement in the area.
LEPC members acknowledged their shared concerns agreeing with conclusions drawn by some attending the quorum court meeting that truck drivers are using their personal electronic devices to get GPS directions showing them the shortest route - not necessarily the safest route - to destinations such as Clarksville located in neighboring Johnson County.
It was suggested the LEPC could be of assistance, should the quorum court request it, by writing letters or by other means contacting state legislators and highway department officials endorsing the court's resolution and citizens' requests.
A LEPC member reported an incident that occurred on New Year's Day in the Hasty community. A trash and grass fire was seen at a residence along state Highway 123. A woman and a man were observed trying to put out the fire and an inquiry was made if a 911 call had been made, but the response was they could get the fire under control.

The LEPC member inquired if anyone was familiar with the incident and its outcome. A representative of the Mt. Judea Volunteer Fire Department said a 911 call was made and Mt. Judea volunteers were part of the response. The fire, originating from a burning barrel, spread to a small trailer loaded with trash and then the grass. The fire was approaching the house and some parked vehicles when it was extinguished.
It was noted by Pam Emerson, chief of the Jasper Volunteer Fire Department, that it is a common mistake made by property owners who decide to take action on their own to fight a fire before calling 911. Often, it's too late, Emerson added.
County OEM director Shane Kilgore concurred saying people should pay fire dues to their local fire departments, otherwise they can be left with a costly bill from the responding fire department (s) after the fire is put out.
Emerson said Jasper dues are $35 and collected each January from members located outside the city limits. City resident's do not have to pay dues.
The California wildfires were also discussed. It was noted that most local rural fire departments are members of the Fire Wise® program promoted through the Forestry Division of the Arkansas Agriculture Department. The program helps property owners by laying out commonsense steps and measures they can take to protect their homes and property from wildfire.