In late session Monday eve, Lincoln aldermen heard presentations by representatives of two water tank repair and maintenance companies discuss options for repair and long term maintenance of the city's water tower. Max Schultz with Viking Company described the tower's present condition and what he viewed as an ideal plan to maintain it. Pete Muntzel, self described water tank expert with the Maguire Water Company, furnished a presentation, highlighting similar repair and maintenance thoughts, adding that the project may cost the city more than $100,000. Mayor Glen Nelson directed city employees involved in the project to put together a bid specification sheet for the repairs and maintenance of that asset. He added that most of its cost will come from federal ARPA funds which will need to be spent in the next fiscal year.
The meeting opened at 6:00 PM on Monday, December 11 with Aldermen Janice Swearngin, Jack Lietzke, Barbara Hammond, Phil Fisher present. Mayor Nelson presided; City Clerk Sabrina Brown recorded.
First actions by the group were to approve an amended evening agenda and minutes of its November meeting, then agree to pay bills presented.
Benton County Economic Development Director Jo Ann Lane followed with information that the Derma Beauty Spa opened last week in a new city location, and that a Heights Venue enterprise sponsored by Lacy Smallwood will open in the city soon.
Recently appointed City Attorney and Prosecutor Todd Smith, with Lauber Municipal Law, then outlined services provided by his firm, including dealing with nuisance issues. He noted that his clients included the cities of Independence and Sedalia.
In old business, Mayor Nelson noted that the city's projected 2024 revenues and cash reserves were sufficient to fund anticipated expenses. The group approved his budget estimate.
Police Chief Jason Wenberg reported that his department received 49 calls for service in the last month and had made no arrests.
Public Works Director Josh Cole said the city's ornamental snowflakes were hung on city streets and a meter pit had been installed at the site of new construction.
City Clerk Brown reported that January 8 is the date for a meeting of the Lincoln Civic Redevelopment Commission. She also noted that the city had several dormant bank accounts that she wanted to close. The group agreed to her plan.
In new business, the group approved a plan to increase newly installed aldermen salaries to $75 per meeting. The increase will be given to aldermen who are hereafter voted in. And in late session, aldermen also approved a one time "longevity incentive" for department heads, ranging from $400 to $200.
The meeting closed at about 7:20 PM. Open sessions are usually held on 2nd Monday eves; visitors are welcome.
