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The final Valley council meeting of 2024 was a brief one. There were no resolutions or ordinances. However, city departments had some announcements. 

Valley Police Chief Mike Reynolds reminded citizens to be extra careful this time of year. 

“With the holiday season upcoming we want to remind everybody, please don’t make it easy for the thieves,” Reynolds said. “Don’t leave valuables and presents in view in vehicles. Then after Christmas Day…Don’t put the boxes out, cut them up. Don’t let folks know all the new stuff you get.”

Laurie Blount, director of the Valley Parks and Recreation, announced that the annual merry-go-round t-shirts were selling out fast. However, the biggest news was the parade that happened the previous week. With 109 entries, Blout said it was the largest parade the city has ever had. 

“Last year we had like 99, so we’re slowly growing,” Blount said. 

Council woman Marquetta Madden thanked Blount for allowing the non-profit organization the Village, to host a Christmas giveaway at the Valley Sportsplex. 

“They were able to service 1,231 citizens, and that was truly a blessing,” said the council member. 

Two citizens asked the council to consider putting a street light on the 200 block of 1st Street after some criminal activity in unlight areas near their residences. 

Mayor Leonard Riley said he would ride over to the area and consider the request. 

Riley also appointed council member Jimmy Glison as the Mayor Pro Tem, to preside over meetings should Riley be absent.