Andrew Dawson

The key discussion topics for this special council meeting included the legislative prayer and pledge of allegiance. Following the approval of previous minutes from the February 2nd, 2026 meeting and acceptance of the January 14th, 2026 minutes from the Citizens Traffic Advisory Commission, the council addressed standing committee reports. The Finance Administration committee recommended approval for the lawful destruction of departmental records exceeding retention periods. The Public Works committee discussed the renewal of a cooperative agreement with the Missouri Department of Conservation for property management around Springport Lake, which was approved and passed as Bill number 2026-21. The council then considered Bill number 2026-22 regarding the establishment of a four-way stop at West Third Street and South Park Avenue; however, due to a recommendation against installation by the advisory commission and a lack of motion, the bill died. All bids for the 2021 GI7 CDBG sidewalk improvement project were rejected due to non-compliant bid documents and insufficient file documentation necessary for grant funding eligibility, with plans to rebid the project. The council then approved one new special event liquor license and eleven renewals for various local establishments before moving into a closed session based on specific subsections.

The meeting focused on a budget work session, including a review of financial trends for fiscal year 2026 and an analysis of revenue sources for the general fund, such as sales, use, marijuana, and utility franchise taxes. Discussions covered the allocation of funds for various departments, the status of the transportation tax fund, and capital projects fund expenditures, noting delays in major projects like the bowling and fiber projects. Furthermore, key expenditure areas like park expenses (due to Liberty Stadium work) and animal shelter costs (related to in-house veterinarian services) were detailed. Financial projections emphasized conservative revenue estimates due to past variability and noted significant increases in health insurance costs, which impacts the general fund balance. A key goal discussed was ensuring enterprise funds, specifically sanitation and transportation, become solvent to avoid reliance on the general fund for asset purchases.

The meeting commenced with a roll call confirming attendance. The primary discussion involved the reading and approval of liquor licenses. Specifically, one new license was approved for Amy Overbeck for bartending services at an event hosted by Pro Energy Holiday Party at the Missouri State Fairgrounds on January 10th. Following the approval of the license, a motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting temporarily to a strategic planning session, allowing the administrator to lead the subsequent discussion.

The key discussion item for this special meeting was the approval of liquor licenses for the Lions Club Witching Hour Sip and Stroll special event scheduled for October 25, 2025. Three licenses were read and subsequently approved by the Council. Following the approval, the meeting was adjourned.

The meeting included an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by the roll call. The agenda primarily focused on approving minutes from previous meetings, specifically the regular council meeting of January 5, 2026, a special council meeting of January 10, 2026, and a strategic planning session also held on January 10, 2026. A significant portion of the session involved a report from the Economic Development Director detailing 2025 accomplishments, including the success in business retention, expansion, and recruitment, resulting in substantial new capital investment and job creation from projects like Amazon, Maxon Wheels, and Midstate Specialty Eggs. The report also covered the relocation of the economic development office to a new, self-owned facility within the Thompson Meadows Industrial Park, constructed without public funds. Furthermore, milestones for established local businesses were celebrated, recognizing companies with service ranging from 10 to 75 years.