From the June 3 Butler city council meeting, all present with the exception of Jeff Hall.
As of late there has been a lot of discussion about needed improvements for foot and bicycle traffic along west 52 highway/Fort Scott street, especially following the closure of two Casey's stores in town and opening of the new store at west 52 and I-49. While solving the entire the problem would include revamp of the railroad overpass to accommodate safer passage, that portion appears to be a "long way off" as cooperation will be needed between MoDot, the railway, the city of Butler and of course, lots of money from somewhere.
In the meantime, the city council has called on engineering firm Allgeier, Martin and Associates Inc. of Joplin to do a study to see what it would take to install sidewalks from near the railroad overpass to Fran Avenue. At this juncture, the firm is working east from Fran Ave and there appears to be a few obstacles as several businesses will lose frontage, as well as a large ditch to contend with just across from Bear Stop.
As you may have guessed, the south side of west 52/Fort Scott is the only viable option due to too many obstructions and restrictions on the north side as seen in the above image.
The council would like everyone to know this is a study to find out approximate cost only at this time. TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program) grant money may be added to the mix, but more on that will have to wait until the study is completed.In other council news, Butler Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Cody Morris approached the council regarding permission for upcoming Chamber events. Granted.
A lease agreement was approved for a new Chevy Tahoe to be used by the police department. It will be one of three to be leased by the city in coming days to update the fleet to more reliable vehicles.
Police Chief Jarrett Wheatley also reported that some department changes have been made, mainly that Brenda Cecil has assumed the position of code enforcement officer and will also remain as the animal control officer. It was reasoned the since she is already out in the community as animal control, adding code enforcement should meld well.
Wheatley went on to say the Todd Hecox has been training with the new K9 to be used mainly for drug searches and both should be ready for service soon. Since drug traffic is up, having the dog readily available will save time and remove dependence on waiting for a dog from another agency.
City Administrator Corey Snead reported that the city sponsored fishing derby went well with more than 40 kids attending. Likewise, repairs at the light plant are complete and progress with improvements at the wastewater plant are on track.
Danny Lawrence, a 21 year veteran with Alliance Water has assumed duties as overseeing operations of the water and wastewater plants. It was also reported that a new method of doing water samples will save the city a one time $17,200.00.
A discussion was held regarding boot block fundraisers at the stoplight and other intersections around town. Chief Wheatley says he doesn't wish to impede the fundraisers but wants to make sure that everyone stays safe- he recommends anyone planning a boot block should contact the police department so they can be aware, as well as offer safety advice to those running the operation.
Rusty metal power poles around the uptown (square) area will need need to be replaced sometime soon. Currently the city is reviewing options as direct metal replacements can run close to $2,000.00 each.
Nathan Agnew was appointed to the park board.
Remember the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend.
