As the regular session of the Butler city council was underway Mayor Jim Henry made a proclamation and presentation to the Nick Alkire family for his dedication to the city of Butler along with service to the community. Jeana Alkire and family humbly accepted the kind words and support from the mayor and council.
This action was followed by the Mayor’s recommendation of installing David Brown into Alkire’s Ward 1 council seat to finish the term. Brown was sworn in shortly after.
As part of his conditional use permit, owner Parker Byron provided a quarterly update on progress and operation of Orange Street Apartments at 113 S. Orange st. He said that remodeling efforts are ongoing and noted that a few things sitting outside will be removed as soon as possible. Also, spraying for insects will be completed and two new tenants will be moving in soon. Other concerns such as location of dumpster slightly outside its area will be addressed as well.
The much awaited comprehensive plan has been approved and now it’s time to get busy putting it in place. Jake Phillips of the Missouri State University addressed the council noting that its “been a long road” and went on to say that a lot has certainly been accomplished over the past year and now it’s time to begin implementation. Mid America Live will be speaking with City Administrator Corey Snead and providing a full breakdown of the comprehensive plan within the upcoming week online and in the News-Shopper.
The planning commission reported their approval for the comprehensive plan as well, and said that they will be following the guidelines very closely to insure that every detail is carried out.
The parks & rec board reported upgrades to the tennis and basketball courts are ongoing and should be completed within weeks.
Other things in the works include replacement of the slide at the Aquatic Center and a play structure at South Park. Councilman Mallatt said some work may have to wait until the next budget year, details forthcoming.
The airport commission says an eviction is coming for a hangar tenant for violation of airport policy and this is a candidate is waiting in the wings to replace Chris Hall as airport manager.
As soon as a contract is signed, once again the FBO will be fully operational. Some big news was also announced, a terminal rehab is in the works next year to greatly enhance the experience for visiting aircraft.
The historic preservation commission met June 11 and threw out some good ideas such as hosting a historic tour around Butler that would highlight our most historic homes and buildings. There is also discussion about offering gift certificates to highlight historic homes along with application two grants in the works for murals and other work in the green space on the southeast corner of the square. With that, plans are in the works to honor Melissa Phillips for her dedication to historic preservation with a plaque to be located in the green space.
City clerk Malachi Hoover read several thank-you’s from families who recently lost loved ones that were recognized by the council in the June 4 session.
Administrator Snead noted that dangerous structures located 104 E. Pine st., 201 E. Walnut and 302 Atkinson st will be dealt with accordingly and property owners have 30 days to clean it up, else the city will do demolition.
Snead went on to say that Butler got a glowing report regarding workman comp claims, overall most every case was handled in a satisfactory fashion which intimately has saved the city time and money.
Remember the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm, upstairs at city hall. An elevator is available for those with special needs and the public is always highly encouraged to attend.
