By John Howell Sr.

Batesville’s mayor and aldermen will hear a report from the Retail Coach during a meeting today, special call today to start at 11 a.m.

The city’s First Tuesday meeting normally starts at 2 p.m.

The Tupelo-based consulting firm, hired by the city in February to develop a comprehensive retail economic development plan for the Batesville area, is expected to present a list of 32 national or regional retail businesses identified as targets for their recruiting effort.

At 1 p.m. the mayor and aldermen have scheduled a work session with Batesville Civic Center Director Roy Hyde. Hyde requested the work session to allow the elected officials to help devise a personnel policy for the facility.

Three public hearings are also scheduled during today’s meeting for 3 p.m.

Richard Monroe is requesting a conditional use permit to allow him to hold trade days at 452 Highway 51 North. The Batesville Planning Commission has recommended granting the permit for three months.

Calvin Dixon is also seeking a conditional use permit. The planning commission recommended Dixon be allowed to use 400 Hwy. 6W, previously known as the Major Place, for Sunday evening church services while other property is being sought.

Janelle Baker is appealing to aldermen to grant a variance that will allow use of metal siding on her building at 152 Public Square. The planning commission denied her request, citing its actions in denying similar requests from other owners of commercial buildings.