PWSD #2 may want to expand

David Cox, Wally Sperry, Brandon Hoover and Jeff Riley with Public Water Supply District #2 (PWSD#2) discussed the possibility of expanding their water system with the Gallatin Board of Aldermen during their regular meeting held Monday, Sept. 26. Mr. Cox stated that he would like to know if the city was interested in a joint effort to expand the water plant for future users. City Administrator Zac Johnson stated that he felt an improvement was needed and would be willing to work with PWSD#2.

Mr. Johnson stated that the sewer bond closing is set for Friday, Sept. 30, at city hall.

After first and second readings, an ordinance was passed authorizing the city administrator and city clerk to sign and execute the necessary legal documents for the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Master Reimbursable Utility Agreement.

Discussion was held on a bill amending the zoning definition of a “kennel.” Mr. Johnson stated that the current definition in the city code books states that two or more dogs at a residence is considered a kennel and must have a conditional use permit from the Planning Commission. Bill No. 2005-10 would revise the definition of a kennel to be four or more dogs over the age of three months. This would raise the dog limitation from one dog per household to three dogs.

An ordinance amending the city code addressing zoning definitions passed after first and second readings.

Mr. Johnson informed the board that city hall had been hit by lightening last week which destroyed the printers, Internet, phone system and did minor damage to the computers.

The board decided to change the first meeting in October because of the holiday on the 10th. Their next meeting would be held on Oct. 11 at 1 p.m.

Police Chief Richards reported on activity from Sept. 12. Reports taken/tickets given: 3 speeding; 3 dogs at large; 1 peace disturbance; 1 reckless burning investigation; 1 no insurance. Pound – 5 dogs in the pound.

Chief Richards stated that the new officers are working out well and have had several compliments.

Bills in the amount of $68,286.10 were approved for payment.

During public comment, Marvel Beck wanted to know if the city could provide a porta-potty at the arena on Oct. 8 for a Saddle Club event. Mayor Thomas stated that he would have one moved to the arena for this event.

Gene Schweizer inquired about the sewer bond documents and the closing of the sewer bonds. Mr. Johnson stated that the bond closing is supposed to be on Friday, Sept. 30.

Franklin Archer informed the board that he would like to be considered for the Park Board if a seat should become available. He also wanted to know the status of the sewer plant. Mr. Johnson commented that the sewer plant should be completed in two to three weeks.

Doug Persell inquired about the concerns and problems of the skateboard area and wanted to know why there was a possibility of shutting the area down.

Chief Richards stated that several complaints had been made regarding the skateboard area. The complaints ranged from property damage to littering and theft with an increase of vandalism in the area.

Several citizens attended the meeting in favor of the skateboard area including skaters and parents. Discussion concluded with trying to form a committee made up of skaters, parents and police department to solve the problems surrounding the skate board area.

Henry Cox had comments regarding grandfather clauses.

Carla Anrold commented on zoning issues and ordinances pertaining to zoning and dogs. She had several questions concerning these issues.

Tina Marshall had concerns about the number of dogs allowed at a residence, as she has dogs for her special needs children.

Joe Griffin wanted to know why East Richardson Street off of Prospect Street was not finished.

During comments by aldermen, Pat Baker had concerns about children who are walking after school and if there is a certain side of the street they should walk on. Chief Richards stated that the children need to walk against traffic so they can see oncoming vehicles. Mrs. Baker also had complaints on a ditch and had a question about the new sewer hook-ups. City Clerk Autumn Acree explained that when the treatment plant is completed, residents will have 90 days to hook-up to the sewer without a connection fee. It is up to the property owner to find a contractor to hook them up to the sewer. City Hall has a list of candidates who are interested in doing this work, but the decision is the property owner’s.

The above are the unapproved minutes of the regular meeting for the city of Gallatin held on Monday, Sept. 26, at city hall. Present were Mayor John Thomas; aldermen Bob Snidow, Doyle Patton, Pat Baker; city Administrator Zac Johnson; Police Chief Mark Richards; City Clerk Autumn Acree; Police Chaplain Austin Bonnett; Carla Arnold, Gene Schweizer, Marvel Beck, Henry Cox, Joe Griffin, Franklin Archer, Tina Marshall, David Roll, Doug and Theresa Persell, Forrest and Judith Graham, David Cox, Wally Sperry, Brandon Hoover, Jeff Riley, Cody Watts, Jeremy Wilson, Drew Hood, J.B. Stevens, Billy Kerns, Britten Wright, Dustin Meritt. Alderman Gene Caldwell was absent.