The DeSoto City Council meeting held on July 15, 2025, addressed several pressing community concerns, primarily focusing on the deteriorating condition of Ellison Road and related safety issues.

The meeting commenced with public comments, where residents voiced their concerns regarding Ellison Road's severe potholes and safety hazards. Katima Hardy, a resident of Candle Meadow, urged the council to prioritize repairs for Ellison Road, emphasizing the need for it to be placed on the city's radar for necessary fixes.

Robert Cawthon, founder of a local ministry called Bob's Bags, highlighted the importance of community support for the homeless and praised the DeSoto care team for their effective assistance. He underscored the need for continued collaboration to address homelessness in the area.

Billy Clayton, a long-time resident, detailed the dangerous conditions on Ellison Road, noting that attempts to repair the road have only exacerbated the problem, creating deeper potholes. He requested the council to consider repaving the road from Beltline Road to Parkerville Road to improve safety for residents.

Victor Langford shared his experiences as a resident of DeSoto, expressing concerns about speeding vehicles on Ellison Road, which poses risks to pedestrians, especially the elderly and children. He called for immediate action to enhance safety measures, including the installation of sidewalks.

Sai Langford echoed her husband's sentiments, reporting issues with water pooling on their property due to road erosion and requesting measures to address drainage problems. She also suggested implementing speed bumps or rumble strips on Lisonbee Road to slow down traffic and protect families living nearby.

The meeting concluded with a clear consensus among residents that immediate action is necessary to address the ongoing issues with Ellison Road and surrounding areas. The council is expected to consider these requests in future discussions, aiming to enhance the safety and quality of life for DeSoto residents.