This story was reported by Grand Prairie Herald contributor Lisa Mills.

The Des Arc City Council selected Drew Smith to fill a vacant council seat at its meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 18. The council also approved $34,000 for improvements to a city baseball field.

Three people applied to fill the Ward 3, Position 2 vacancy, with Smith being chosen to serve the remainder of the term. 

In other business, the council approved providing $34,000 to the Des Arc Baseball Association for improvements to field 4, including the installation of turf.

Councilman Doug Estes said the city and baseball association have lost revenue because the condition of the field has prevented Des Arc from hosting district and regional tournaments.

Estes said he believes making the improvements will allow more tournaments to be held in the city, generating additional revenue and making the investment worthwhile.

The council passed resolutions condemning two properties, one at 10th and West Erwin streets, the other at 307 N. 6th St.

The owners have been notified and will have 30 days to bring the properties up to code or tear down the structures.

Council members also continued discussions about problems with the city’s water, gas and sewer systems.

Water department employees reported they are continually working to keep the systems operating while seeking funding for needed improvements.

Council member and city grant administrator Gail King is considering available grants that could help cover the cost of utility improvement projects.