DeWitt City Council Holds June Meeting

The DeWitt City Council convened for its regular monthly meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at DeWitt City Hall. All council members were present with the exception of Dallas Traylor. Mayor Jimmy Black opened the meeting with the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Council approved the minutes from the May 11 meeting, as well as the payment of the city’s bills.

During Public Comments, several residents addressed the Council regarding properties currently under consideration for cleanup or demolition. Kimberly Chaneyworth spoke concerning her father’s property located at 518 East 8th Street and informed the Council that the property would be cleaned and the trailer removed within 30 days.

Mira Jenkins addressed the Council regarding the property located at 300 East Maxwell and stated that demolition of the structure would also be completed within 30 days.

Phillip Bradford discussed the property located at 414 North Cedar Street and noted that he intends to demolish the structure after being granted six months by Mayor Black to address the condition of the property.

Kira Hobbs addressed the Council regarding the property at 604 East Halliburton. Mayor Black granted her two months to complete cleanup efforts on the property.

Jackie Johnson raised questions concerning citywide spraying services, prompting discussion among council members. Tami Hornbeck also addressed the Council regarding maintenance and spraying in the area surrounding the local coffee shop, and additional discussion followed.

During the Park Commission Report, Mayor Black informed the Council that locks at the Community Center would be replaced and that repairs had been completed on the facility’s electrical panel box.

Brian Miller presented the Hospital Commission Report. No reports were presented from the Planning Commission, Airport Commission, or Water and Sewer Department.

The Financial Report reflected a total fund balance of $159,714.40. Perry Simpson presented the Public Works Report, and Chief Steven Bobo delivered the Public Safety Report.

Under Old Business, the Council revisited the proposed ordinance authorizing the DeWitt Police Department to utilize an unmanned aerial vehicle, commonly referred to as a drone. Tim Blair addressed the Council regarding the legal and operational aspects of drone usage, and extensive discussion followed.

Council Member Brent London made a motion supporting the use of a drone by the Police Department; however, the motion failed due to the absence of a second.

The Council then considered Resolution No. 2026-3 regarding the condemnation of previously identified structures within the city. The resolution was approved.

Code Enforcement Officer Duane Grisham presented his report, followed by additional discussion regarding ongoing code enforcement efforts throughout the city.

With no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned.