Brooke D. Atha Bell

The council reviewed several administrative and municipal items, including community feedback on pollination plots, an update on pool operations and pass sales, and a resident inquiry regarding an alderman vacancy, which was subsequently filled by Jackson Jones. Discussions were held regarding a proposed golf cart policy for young children, which was tabled for further review. Additionally, the council reviewed a potential buyout offer for a cell tower lease and approved the emergency purchase of a grinder pump. The meeting also included the second reading and adoption of an ordinance granting an electric franchise to Evergy Missouri West, Inc., and concluded with a closed session where the council voted to hire a new Police Administrative Assistant/Utility Clerk.

The council conducted a budget work session covering various municipal concerns, including infrastructure maintenance requests for Andrew Street, a proposal for a memorial flag pole and stone in Messick Park, and a request for paving repairs on North 10th Street. The council approved picnic licenses for two organizations, authorized an emergency sewer pump repair purchase, and made several appointments to city positions. Additionally, the council approved a resolution for a mitigation plan, discussed the financing for a new police building, and adopted an ordinance regarding an equipment lease purchase agreement. Departmental reports were provided by the Police Chief, City Administrator, and Public Works Director, and the council concluded the session with a closed session for personnel and contract discussions.

The council meeting addressed various civic and operational matters including the approval of an event request for a local arcade and the planning of a new crosswalk on Arbor Drive. Bids for lift station fencing were discussed, and a decision was made to pass credit card processing fees to customers. Technical evaluations for water tower maintenance, specifically for the Messick and Savage towers, were reviewed. Reports from the police and public works departments were provided, covering election-related activities and infrastructure projects. Following a reorganization session, the council made internal appointments, discussed the establishment of an emergency fund, and addressed concerns regarding potholes and fire hydrant maintenance. A closed session was held to discuss real estate and personnel matters, resulting in the approval of a new hire for the parks department.

The council conducted a budget work session that included an update on the progress of the local pool project, including the installation of shade sails and the scheduling of a grand opening. Emergency bid approval was granted for a new air conditioner for the Pro Shop, and a bid from Clark Fencing was accepted for lift station fencing. The City Administrator provided a report on recent meetings and facilities maintenance, including planned sidewalk and drainage improvements. A bill regarding an electric franchise was introduced for a first reading. Additionally, the Mayor submitted his resignation effective immediately, and the council held a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

The council discussed and approved a $1,000 sponsorship for the Andrew County Fair, which includes a fishing derby event. Emergency purchases were authorized for sewer system repairs, including UV bulbs and seals from Trojan Technologies and a submersible pump rebuild by Mid-America Pump. The City Administrator provided updates on various community initiatives, grant submissions, office building maintenance, vandalism at Messick Park, and geotechnical survey requirements for the reservoir dam. The council also adopted an ordinance to enter into a contract with Keller Construction for asphalt street paving and held a closed session regarding personnel matters.