Michael Baker

The board reviewed the cultural survey from Switchgrass, submitted to Osage Nation, for a redundant water line project. Sewer system upgrades are pending DNR plan review and approval. The board discussed a CDBG grant opportunity for disaster funding related to a raw water line break, with a plan to use Mark Twain Regional Councils of Government to administer the grant. Superintendent reports covered the submission of the City's Water Protection Plan to DNR, a manufacturing issue with a whistle, attendance at a Brownfield Conference, interest in Cooper engines, the location of a water line, and a scheduled power outage. The meeting also addressed Ordinance #1275-23-10, Section 105.150(2), concerning a reserve of no more than ten percent of the total annual expenditures, with discussion on clarifying the language.

The Park Board meeting covered various topics including a review of the treasurer's report and updates from the Park Director. Key discussion points included a grant application for a walking trail, pool repairs, playground maintenance, the success of a July 3rd event, fair preparations, a potential bee training program, updates on Missouri Trails Grant, and the rebidding of the Sesquicentennial kitchen remodel. The board also discussed a request from the Christian Academy to install a permanent structure for the fair and the need to add a full-time employee. Liability concerns regarding the bee training program were raised, and the request for a permanent structure was denied for the 2024 fair due to short notice.

The board meeting covered various topics including the approval of bills for electric, water, and sewer departments; discussion of payroll reports; and updates on repairs to fire hydrants, installation of a new hydrant at Big Spring Park, repainting of fire hydrants, and installation of a sewer plant privacy fence. Other topics included upcoming bids for two engines, issues with a new bucket truck, the cost of repairing the city whistle, relocation of a water line, and the receipt of a used AC unit from the Palmyra R-1 School District. Plant tours were scheduled for the water plant, sewer plant, and service department.

The board meeting covered various reports and actions, including the discussion of a mutual aid agreement with MPUA, the need for new controls for a whistle, updates on the Palmyra High School transformer replacement, and the relocation of a sewer line. Other topics included the reporting of increased meter counts, hail damage to the sewer plant and service department roofs, the results of Pfos water testing, an employee injury, sediment in a water tower, and the discovery of artifacts during a cultural survey. The superintendent's report also included the upcoming retirement of the chief and the need to prioritize a privacy fence at the sewer plant.

The council meeting addressed several key issues. A report was given on a roof leak at city hall, with plans to explore tuck pointing. The hiring process for a police chief was discussed, including advertising the position. Two ordinances were approved: one authorizing a contract with the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission for a TAP grant, and another authorizing an MPUA mutual aid agreement. A resolution adopting a written accounting policy was also adopted. A bid for an asphalt overlay project was accepted. A report was given on the completion of a new privacy fence at the sewer plant, and the decision to postpone repairs to the city whistle was discussed. Reports were given on the Brownfield Coalition booth at the fair, the Flowmaster punch list, the departure of the police chief, the need for a building commission meeting, and issues with fire hydrants. Finally, an update was provided on the Bailey Stanley Stormwater Drainage.