Mary Lou Craigg

The meeting addressed various city initiatives, including the proclamation of Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month and the authorization for motorcycle skills test course markings. Several ordinances were passed, authorizing a new stop sign on Redbud Drive, aviation project consultant agreements for the airport, amendments to the fire prevention code, a contract for fire safety inspection services, and professional services agreements for park development projects. The council also made appointments to the Housing Authority Board and the Public Library Board of Trustees, and received reports regarding firefighter promotions, emergency preparedness grants, wastewater fund management, and the development of an RFP for a human resources consultant.

The key discussion points included the approval of an agenda, accounts payable, and the financial report. New business featured the approval for the Macon Downtown Association to place a commemorative two-faced Howard Post Clock, donated by the family of former Mayor Frank Parks Briggs, at the intersection of Vine St./Rollins St., including relocation of the existing kiosk. Council also approved the purchase of a grapple bucket and a 4-in-1 combination bucket for the skid loader from a local vendor, despite a slightly higher cost. Howe Company Inc. was selected as the engineering firm for the Bourke Street Park sports complex development and Blees Park Don Schelle Fields improvement projects based on Statement of Qualifications scoring. An ordinance authorizing a three-year contract with Ellis & Associates for the Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program (CARMP) and Jeff Ellis Swimming (JES) program received two readings and approval. Discussions were held regarding a proposed 5-year, 5-step wastewater user charge rate increase to address operational losses and anticipated regulatory requirements, with a public hearing scheduled for January 27th. The Council convened in a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters related to a cadet stipend for the LETI program, which ultimately could not be executed due to policy conflicts.

The meeting included approval of the agenda and financial report, with accounts payable processing scheduled to close shortly after. Key Old Business centered on the two readings required to approve the ordinance adopting the 2026 Annual Operating Budget for the Board of Public Works, and the ordinance approving the 2026 compensation for the Macon Municipal Utilities General Manager. Under New Business, the Council accepted 2026 MIRMA Safety Grant Awards totaling $8,250 for liability reduction items, approved the pre-order of a budgeted dump truck for the Street Department, confirmed signature authorizations for banking transactions, and approved an updated pay scale range for the Code Enforcement Agent position. Additionally, the Council approved the first and second readings of an ordinance authorizing a supplemental agreement with McClure Engineering Company to engage WSP for a required Cultural Resource Survey related to the Bourke Street sidewalks and intersection improvements grant. The Mayor reported ongoing discussions regarding a cadet sponsorship for the Law Enforcement Academy. The Council later entered a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters and contract negotiations.

The Council meeting included the approval of the agenda, accounts payable, and the financial report. Key business items included the selection of Alfred Benesch and Company as the Airport Planning/Environmental and Engineering Consultant, contingent upon MoDOT concurrence. The Council also approved two readings of an ordinance prohibiting the sale and/or possession of Kratom. Furthermore, the Council conducted first and second readings to adopt the 2026 Annual Operating Budgets for the Common Fund and various Special Funds, including adjustments for work truck purchases. An ordinance imposing a 120-day moratorium on the erection of digital and off-premises signs was also approved. Finally, Chelsea Rice was appointed to the Macon County Economic Development Board of Directors. The meeting concluded with reports from the Mayor and Council members, and a closed session concerning contract negotiation, real estate purchase/sale, and personnel matters.

The meeting included a proclamation recognizing the Macon-Shelby Master Gardener Chapter for their contributions to the community. The council approved the Macon Area Chamber of Commerce's request for a parade permit and street closures for the annual Christmas Parade. Also approved was a request from Macon First Baptist Church for a street closure for a Halloween Truck-or-Treat event. The council approved and accepted the Missouri Blue Shield $50,000 Grant Award to purchase new ballistic vests and body-worn cameras. The selection of an Airport Engineer was tabled for further review. Committees were assigned to review and update the City Sign Code, Driveway Code, and Parking Code. An ordinance was approved authorizing the Mayor to apply for federal financial assistance on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce for transit projects. The Mayor reported on the Macon Municipal Pool's net loss and the allocation of Capital Improvements Sales Tax proceeds. There was a discussion regarding safety and organization at the end of the homecoming parade route. The November Council Meeting date was rescheduled. The City Administrator reported on fiscal year 2026 budget preparation and employee completion of FormFire. The fire department's preparation for Fire Prevention Week and the installation of Knox Boxes were discussed. A closed session was held regarding personnel matters.