The Chillicothe City Council approved two ordinances during its meeting on August 26.
According to the draft minutes, one ordinance amended a section of the city code regarding speed zones around schools. The amendment removed streets that bordered the former Dewey and Field elementary schools and added Coach K Street to the designated speed zone areas.
The second ordinance accepted the lowest responsible bid for purchasing and installing necessary decals and equipment for two 2024 Dodge Durango police utility interceptor vehicles. The contract was awarded to Nroute, LLC, Incorporated for $16,199.74 per vehicle.
The council also approved Mayor Theresa Kelly’s recommendation to reelect three members to the Saint Luke’s Hospital of Chillicothe Board of Directors: Krista Clark, Brian Englert, and John Marcolla.
Police Chief Jon Maples updated the speed and traffic study for Second and Walnut Streets. He stated that the testing equipment is undergoing a software update, after which the study will commence.
City Administrator Rozanne Frampton reported on progress regarding the new police facility. She anticipates receiving updated figures by the end of the week, with bids expected to be solicited in late October. A meet-and-greet with local contractors interested in bidding on parts of the project will be held. Frampton also mentioned plans for Joey McKinley to return in September to discuss financing options.
Frampton noted ongoing progress on Lakeview Drive’s concrete repairs. Third and Washington Streets have reopened, and Frampton praised the street department for its work. Some projects have experienced delays, including the asphalt work at Danner Park, which is anticipated to be completed this week. Work is also ongoing at the Danner Park tennis courts.
Frampton further noted changes required by Weights and Measures to the AvGas project, which is nearing completion. A meeting regarding the Hutchinson stormwater project was scheduled for August 28.
City Auditor Allison Jeffries reported that the city’s audit had been submitted to the State of Missouri.
City Clerk Amy Hess announced that 1826 Clay Street was recently deeded to the city, and bids for an asbestos inspection were due by August 27. The city will begin the process of demolishing the property soon.
The city currently has two openings on the Railroad Board and one on the Planning and Zoning Board. Applications for these positions are available at city hall or online.
Hess also shared that a tour was given to a high school student from Hale who is attending Grand River Technical School. The student is gaining experience in local government by working at the courthouse and may spend additional time at city hall.
City hall will be closed on September 2 in observance of Labor Day.
Hess reported attending a meeting of the Northwest Missouri City Clerks and Financial Officers Association on August 15, where she toured the new city hall and police station in Platte City. The association will co-host the hospitality room at the 2025 Spring Institute for City Clerks and Financial Officers, and Hess will serve on the committee for the event.
Council Member Tom Ashbrook inquired about the next steps for the Hutchinson Addition following the completion of Lakeview Drive. He also asked Airport Manager Toby Calivere about the markup on fuel at the airport and requested Jeffries monitor sales tax revenue in relation to the police facility project.
The council concluded the meeting with an executive session to discuss real estate matters.
