Mayor Jim Henry and the Butler city council worked through a rather full agenda on Tuesday night which included a request for a zoning change in west Butler. Corey Cantrell, representing Vision Development Group LLC, is looking to build a housing development along West street, and asked the city for a zoning change from R2 to R4. The basic difference between the two is that R4 allows for smaller lots, that in time would result in more homes available within the same footprint.
While Vision Development plans to offer a variety of homes ranging in size, their goal is to provide housing for those who need just the basics to multi-family dwellings that are affordable. Cantrell stated that the average monthly rental would run in the $1,200 range for about 1,000 square feet. It was noted that none of the homes will be for sale; rentals only.
The entire project won't happen overnight- Cantrell said that likely 10 or so units would be built first with more, depending on occupancy, to be constructed over the next 20 years or so. The overall project could include just over 100 lots.
Following a lengthy debate, the council voted to make the change to R4 however, there is still much to do in terms of engineering which includes the need to possibly construct a retainage pond to control flooding that has plagued the area over the years (Bear Stop area).
Another hot topic was the fact that Butler residents are going to see what will hopefully be a small spike in their electric bill in the upcoming billing cycle. The severe cold snap a few weeks back resulted in a higher bill from MPUA to the city of Butler which ultimately must be passed on to consumers. Good news, Mid America Live spoke to the utility billing department at city hall and it appears that for those with one electric meter, the spike should be as low as $40 up to maybe $250. The council agreed to an extension for those who cannot pay the full amount- to take advantage of the offer, 1/2 of the bill must be paid up front and patrons will have 30 days to pay the balance.
Butler Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Samantha Stump appeared before the council to request permission for this year's events including the June car show, Huckster's Day, Trunk or Treat and the Christmas parade. Granted.
Tiffany Blaser submitted a Special Event application on behalf of the Bates County Museum for "Old Settler's Day" in commemoration of our country's 250th anniversary this Summer. Approved as submitted with more details in coming days.
Councilwoman Doncella Liggins reported that the Student Advisory Committee met and prepared Valentines for residents of Medicalodge and hand delivered them. Future plans will include residents of Butler Center as well.
Kevin Zirjacks submitted a request to hold a special event at the Butler city lake for their 4th annual Spring Social. The group will participate in a catch-and-release event which was approved by the council.
There will be a meeting on March 2nd regarding city owned facilities which will include discussion of what the future holds for the old Butler high school. The building is in dire need of structural repair and money to do so is scarce- unfortunately it likely would cost about the same to tear it down versus fixing it. Hopefully a plan can be formulated in the upcoming meeting.
MoDot and the railroad will be rebuilding the rail crossing at Mill street which has become quite bumpy as of late. This will include new lighting and crossarms with no cost to the city other than painting necessary markings on the street.
The intersection of Main and Fort Scott street has become somewhat of a 'blind spot' as parking close to the intersection results in limited visibility for those approaching especially on Fort Scott. To better the situation several ideas have been tossed out including making it a four way stop; Police Chief Jarrett Wheatley suggested a smoother version of a speed bump to slow those coming off the square. More about this will be discussed in upcoming sessions.
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