City Council — TIF bonds refinanced

Key Decisions

• The council approved an ordinance authorizing the refinancing of bonds for the Eight Point shopping center redevelopment project. The refinancing is expected to reduce interest rates, with a maximum rate of 5.125%. The 2015B bonds at 8% interest will be partially refunded. Vote: 7-0.
• The council approved an ordinance entering into a management agreement with Grow Our Downtown Inc. for management of the farmer's market. Vote: 7-0.
• The council adopted a resolution supporting Grow Our Downtown Inc.'s application for a Missouri Main Street Community Empowerment Grant. Vote: 6-0.
• The council adopted a resolution designating 911 telecommunicators as first responders, giving them access to mental health resources, PTSD support, and allowing retirement at age 55 like other police officers and firefighters.
• The council approved an amendment to city code removing the restriction that limited farmers market vendors to one stall per day.

Budget & Finance

• The council awarded a contract to Drew Murphy of Malden, Missouri, to lease 93 acres of farmland at Poplar Bluff Regional Business Airport for $240 per acre per year, double the other bids received.
• The council awarded a $1 million contract to Arielle Parsons Inc. for construction of a two-bay box hangar taxiway and approach at the airport. Grant funds will cover 95% of the project cost.
• The council approved a $14,770 contract to Clinton Construction for repairs to Fire Station Number 3 on Highway 53, damaged in last year's tornado. FEMA provided $14,800 to cover the repairs.
• The Eight Point TIF bond refinancing will return approximately $1.75 million in surplus PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) funds to taxing districts, with the school district receiving the largest share.

Coming Up

• Grow Our Downtown will host Missouri Main Street staff for a downtown tour on April 30th at the Rogers Theater, featuring video presentations and testimonials from property owners and business owners.
• A fiscal forum proposed by a council member will be scheduled after first quarter 2026 budget numbers are finalized and the new city council is seated. Each city department will present their work and answer questions.

Other Business

City officials including the mayor, city manager, city attorney, and council members met with community mental health and addiction service providers to address homelessness issues. The group discussed potential ordinance changes and strategies used by other communities. They plan to meet every two months to continue working on solutions.