Russellville Council appoints officers, court officials

RUSSELLVILLE — After being sworn in for four-year terms, city council members approved rules of procedure and made appointments of various officers and court officials.

During an organizational meeting, council members reappointed Daniel G. McDowell as city attorney.

McDowell will be paid $2,000 per month, which is an increase of $600 per month, Miller said.

Attorney Cliff Wright was reappointed to serve as the city’s municipal judge with compensation of $1,400 per month, an increase of $200 per month.

Wright was appointed judge following the October 2023 death of former State Sen. Roger Bedford.

Eddie Beason was reappointed to serve as the municipal court prosecutor.

The prosecutor’s monthly compensation was also increased from $1,200 per month to $1,400.

Mayor David Grissom returns for his fourth term.

The 2025-2029 city council includes District 1 CouncilmanDavidPalmer, District 2 Councilman Darren Woodruff, District 3 Councilman Gary Cummings, District 4 Councilman Lonnie Freeman and District 5 Councilman Jamie Harris.

Freeman was the only new member elected in this year’s municipal election. He replaces former D-4 member Dexter Hamilton.

The city council will continue to meet on the first and third Mondays of the month. Work sessions will begin at 5 p.m. and are followed by the business portion of the meeting.

Belinda Miller was reappointed city clerk while Joe Mansell will continue to serve as fire chief and Chris Hargett will remain the city’s police chief.

In other council action, members: Approved an asphalt bid from Rogers Group.

Extended the patrol officer application deadline in the police department to Nov. 17.

Reviewed a claim submitted by Jonathan Wilson before adjourning.