Ripley board delays vote on resolution to designate local artist’s ladder as the city’s official tool

The board heard a resolution to designate the ladder — as created by local artist Dolph Smith — the official tool of Ripley but did not act on it, opting to return the matter to the agenda next month.

The mayor read the resolution in full, noting Smith’s national recognition and his history as a woodworker and community advocate. Some aldermen said they had not seen the proposal before the meeting. "This is my first time seeing it when I read it," one board member said, and another asked for time to review the text and photographs that accompanied the draft.

Board members described the measure as an honorary recognition intended to celebrate local culture, but several asked that the resolution be circulated in advance so members could discuss it fully. The mayor noted the item will be placed on the next month’s agenda for formal consideration.

Why it matters: the resolution is ceremonial and aims to honor a local artist and civic culture; board members emphasized the need for advance circulation of ceremonial resolutions so members can review details before voting.