Ice Storm in December
December is bringing some winter challenges. As I write this on 10th we are in the middle of a serious ice storm that has left several thousand households without power. The crisis is not over, but so far it’s clear that our emergency management systems are in good order and our departmental resources are serving us well. We expect all utilities to be back in service within a day or two, and then we will be challenged with debris removal – tree limbs from both public areas and private property. But we are working on efficient ways to take care of that problem. A special thanks to all the resources – city, county, state and private that are getting us through.
|
|
|
MSP Redevelopment
Last month we reported on the demolition of the red administration buildings to reveal the historic entrance to the prison redevelopment area – the entryway to the entire 140 acre site. This month Senator Bond came to town and revealed the plans for the new 70 million dollar courthouse that will be located where the red buildings use to be. This design is a great blend of public spaces and classic architecture. It harmonizes nicely with the historic entrance across the street and leaves large areas at the rear with great views of the Missouri River. The impact of this project for the community cannot be underestimated. The City and County have each pledged 2 million dollars from their half-cent sales tax funds to extend Lafayette Street into the project in front of the new courthouse and historic entrance. |
|
Adrian’s Island
Bill Lockwood from Parks and Recreation and Randy Allen from the Chamber have spearheaded a thorough study to get us Adrian’s Island – our best shot to experience our most impressive natural resource – the Missouri River. The latest strategy is to bore under the railroad tracks at a site just west of the Capitol. MODOT has approved a $500,000 grant for the feasibility study and preliminary design. |
Click on image to view a pdf
|
|
City Elections
Nothing would please me more than to keep our present council for the next three years – but the fact that there are four contested races out of five possible seats means our non-partisan elections are producing vibrant elections – unlike many predicted. Those races mean the issues will be discussed and that’s good regardless of who wins. The community appreciates the incumbents who are presently serving and the challengers who will keep the issues on the front burner.
Visit the City Elections web page for a list of candidates.
|
| |
Citizen of the Month
Adversity often brings out the best in people. We were in desperate need of a large, level, convenient location where citizens could bring storm debris. Many thanks to Leon Beck and family for making a great site on West Edgewood available at no cost. If you see Leon, tell him thanks.
|
|
|
