November 2, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.
Chris Gach was present for all meetings.
Jim talked with Kaysinger and MoDOT over BRO projects to be reviewed for new bridges. He stated there are two verified on the list for next year, but the date is to be decided. He also contacted Great River Engineering about a date, and they were unsure as well but spoke about getting the funding approved for this project.
John attended the soft opening at Bates County Industry’s new store and went through emails.
All three Commissioners attended the Retirement Reception in honor of the Bates County Prosecutor, Hugh Jenkins.
November 4, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.
Chris Gach was present for all meetings.
Kacie Robey, with the Treasurer/Collector’s Office, and Carl Bettles, the Assessor’s Office, met with the Commission and discussed the Senior Tax Credit Applications. Kacie explained that she has been getting questioned about it and doesn’t have an answer and would like to figure out a date she can tell them. John threw out the idea of December 2nd, and no one disagreed.
Greg Brauner, with Hutchison Engineering, Inc., came and met with the Commission. Greg introduced himself and gave the Commission a book that explains their qualifications and things they may want to know. Greg was aware that the Commission usually deals with Great River Engineering but told them to look at what they offer and reach out.
Doug Mager came in and met with the Commission, letting them know that the local media is there for them if they ever want to notify the public of anything.
Doug explained comments that he has heard about being unaware of things, which he took personal. He told the Commission that he went back and investigated the matter, which was solar, and found that he had posted about it more than 30 times. John informed Doug that the landowners could not speak about anything due to the NDA’s they signed. Doug then asked the Commission if they had to sign any NDA’s, due to hearing rumors that they did, but the Commission informed him that they did not and that it is illegal for them to do so.
Trent thanked Doug for what he does.
Doug reminded the Commission, again, that the local media is more than willing to help them get the word out for anything they might have
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