The Rock Port Board of Aldermen met Monday, November 18, 2019, at 5:30 p.m. at Rock Port City Hall with Mayor Chris Chamberlain presiding. Board members present were Ron Deatz, Lavon Paukert, and Todd Stevens. Tim Taylor was absent. Also present was City Clerk Emily Schulte.
The implementation of a city wage structure was discussed.
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The Rock Port Board of Aldermen met Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at 6:00 p.m. at Rock Port City Hall with Mayor Chris Chamberlain presiding. Board members present were Ron Deatz, Lavon Paukert, and Todd Stevens. Alderman Tim Taylor was absent. Also present were Superintendent Trevor Hale, Utility Clerk Terri McGuire, Chief of Police Shannon Sherwood, and City Clerk Emily Schulte. Visitors were Jeff Arp (MIRMA), Jennifer Alvarez (Tourism Board member), Larry Wilson (Liberty Utilities), and Jim Noland (Central States Capital).
Mayor Chamberlain called the meeting to order then led the meeting in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting agenda was approved. Board members also voted to approve the October 16 and November 18, 2019, meeting minutes.
Jeff Arp with MIRMA was in attendance to present two grants to Mayor Chamberlain. One was for a patrol car camera in the amount of $2,925.00 for the police department. The other was for fall protection gear for the electric department in the amount of $1,982.00.
Jennifer Alvarez was present representing the Rock Port Tourism Board. They are willing to assist the city with decorating for Christmas. This year they would like to wrap the newer street lights on Main Street in ribbon and lights. Clerk Schulte informed the board that as long as proper safety precautions are met and any additional volunteers (not already on a board or a current city employee) first sign a volunteer waiver with City Hall, that would satisfy MIRMA recommendations. Next year they would like to purchase replacements for the city’s current pole decorations.
Alvarez also discussed an idea the Tourism Board had to host a logo competition, as there isn’t a current one in use for the city. There were no objections to this idea. They will keep the board informed.
Larry Wilson with Liberty Utilities was present in regards to the expiring franchise tax ordinance with the city.
Bill #1204 – Renewal of Gas Franchise to Liberty Utilities – was read. The aldermen voted to approve the first and second readings. Mayor Chamberlain declared Bill #1204, Ordinance #1204.
Jim Noland with Central States Capital was present to discuss refinance opportunities they could offer. The opportunity will be discussed further in the coming months.
The city financial statements, accounts payables, tax report, delinquent tax list, and all board and departmental reports were approved.
The utility financial statements, accounts payables, purchased power and water statements, take or pay water use report, water loss reports, Utility Clerk report and City Superintendent report were also approved.
Resolution 2019-02 authorizing the Mayor to sign a petition that the United States government grant a legal holiday for the Native American Indians was discussed and approved.
The 2019 city, utility, and Park Board budget drafts were reviewed.
Chief of Police Shannon Sherwood has been asked to run for the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police Northwest Lodge 3 executive board.
City Clerk Emily Schulte gave a Park Board and Tourism Board update.
Superintendent Trevor Hale reported that leaks from the leak survey are being located and repaired. Newly installed auto-read meters are saving a great deal of time. The wells at the old water plant have been capped. Circuit 8 power outage issues are being addressed. Work is being done to see if Rock Port qualifies for any USDA funding.
Alderman Ron Deatz inquired how the Digger Derrick is working out. Hale informed him he’s happy with the purchase.
Alderman Todd Stevens inquired about unfinished road work and noted they should begin working on a street repair list for 2020. He would also be interested to speak with the city’s current financial contact, Charlie Zitnik with D.A. Davidson, about his thoughts with our recent refinance offer.
Mayor Chris Chamberlain informed the board he has found a donor for the remainder of the Main Street trash bins. A positive call was received on behalf of the police department for assistance they recently received. Mayor Chamberlain, along with Mr. Sickels, are beginning to work on more upcoming recognition nights at the school. The enthusiasm the Tourism Board has been showing is appreciated. Individual employee meetings will be scheduled again for January.
The aldermen voted to adjourn into executive session for personnel matters pursuant to Section 610.021(3) RSMo. and Section 610.021(13) RSMo.
The executive session was adjourned and the regular session was resumed. The regular meeting was then adjourned.
