Key Decisions
- Council approved a loan agreement with New Era Bank to purchase a 2026 Freightliner 900 Eco nine-yard combo sewer cleaner. The ordinance passed unanimously on both readings.
- Council approved an agreement with Automated Compliance Partners LLC (doing business as Reporting Made Easy) for an electronic reporting platform for inspections. The ordinance passed unanimously on both readings.
- Council approved an ordinance amending solid waste management regulations relating to commercial haulers. The ordinance passed unanimously on both readings.
- Council approved accounts payable bills from two separate reports. Alderman Foley abstained from the first vote citing a potential conflict of interest.
- Council voted to allow the transfer of a deed for property in the business park from Madison County Progress Incorporated to Unlimited Opportunities Ahead, both 501(c)(3) organizations. The motion passed.
- Council approved a request from Waylon Pogue Water Plant Supervisor for a MOVI helical gear motor from State Motor and Control Solutions for $4,130.31. The motion passed unanimously.
- Council approved a request from Jill Goldsmith for a Christian tent revival at Azalea Park on June 17, 18, and 19, 2026, pending confirmation that the pavilion is not already reserved. The motion passed.
Budget & Finance
- Council approved $4,130.31 for a MOVI helical gear motor from State Motor and Control Solutions for the water plant requested by Water Plant Supervisor Waylon Pogue.
- Chris Reagan reported that $1.3 million currently sits in a fund to build a proposed indoor sports and recreation facility in the business park, with the full project estimated between $1.3 million and $2 million.
- Council discussed financial reports from February and March 2026. Alderman Huckaba reported an unexplained significant drop in revenue in one month that the city is working with the state to investigate. The drop was described as potentially an error, with revenue returning to normal levels in following months.
Watch This
- City attorney Kyle Cronin will draft a formal lease or access agreement for Madison County's 911 dispatch tower and radio equipment located at 124 West Main Street. The county has used the site since the 1990s under a handshake agreement. The agreement will protect the county's access to the 180-foot tower and adjacent property if the city sells or redevelops the former police department site or City Hall.
- The city will update the contract with Unlimited Opportunities Ahead to reflect the deed transfer for the business park property. City attorney Kyle Cronin indicated new contract terms, including a new anticipated start date, will be necessary.
- Mike Pollard is expected to present at the next meeting regarding options for relocating or rebuilding the police department. The current building at the former police department site shows significant structural issues, and the Graham Drive building was also evaluated but deemed unsuitable. City administrator indicated the city will likely need to purchase a different location.
Other Business
Chris Reagan requested the deed transfer to enable construction of an indoor sports and recreation facility at the business park. The proposed building would include an indoor basketball/volleyball multi-purpose room and an indoor turf area with cages for football, baseball, softball, track, and soccer. The facility would be shared between the city parks and recreation department and the school district, with the high school using it from 3 to 6 p.m. and the city using it for youth leagues. Under the previous unwritten agreement, the school would provide janitorial services and supplies, while the city would assist with utility bills. Maintenance costs would fall to the building owner. Reagan emphasized the need to move forward, noting that comparable facilities exist in Park Hills, Farmington, Jackson, and Cape Girardeau.
Alderman Jones recognized Gordy Lindsey from the Electric Department, who spotted a missing woman's car during an overnight shift, called 911, and likely saved her life. The woman was reportedly not in good condition when found.
Kevin Jenkins introduced himself to the council as the new reporter for the Democrat News. He previously worked at the Daily Journal and Mountain Echo and now lives in Fredericktown after commuting from Perryville for two years.
Mayor noted that Azalea Festival weekend is approaching and thanked volunteers in advance.
Jill Goldsmith's Christian tent revival event will use electricity and bathrooms at Azalea Park. The tent and liability insurance will be provided by Ronnie Roethlisberger from Faith Cowboy Church in Desloge. Setup is planned for June 16, with the event running June 17-19, followed by a separate pavilion event organized by Scott Bates on June 20. Teardown is scheduled for June 20-21. Redeemed Ministries will assist with setup and teardown.
Council entered closed session to discuss three matters: lease, purchase, or sale of real estate; hiring, firing, disciplining, or promoting city employees; and documents related to contract negotiations.
Recaps are based on the official meeting recording and may contain errors or omissions. Always refer to the full recording for authoritative information.