Anderson To Pursue USDA Grant
The Anderson City Council voted to pursue a $30,000 USDA grant at the regular meeting
on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
The Anderson City Council voted to pursue a $30,000 USDA grant at the regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
According to the USDA website, the Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households (SEARCH) grant is available to help financially distressed rural communities with feasibility studies, design and technical assistance on proposed water and waste disposal projects.
According to unapproved minutes of the meeting, City Attorney Jonathan Pierce also moved forward with condemnation procedures in regard to an unsafe property in town.
Mayor John Sellers spoke about Cook Hill Road and assured council members that an engineer is seeking a solution. He noted a survey would need to be conducted and an easement secured before any work begins.
Departmental
Reports
Police Chief Seth Daniels reported the department received 6,575 calls for services in 2019.
Daniels then updated the council on K-9 Samson’s performance. He said that Hancock Veterinary of Pineville will be sponsoring Samson’s future medical expenses.
Daniels noted that Conner Hackworth has completed his 90-day probationary period. The council voted to hire Hackworth full-time with pay of $17 per hour.
Alderman Gene Cantrell asked about a Tahoe the department recently purchased, and Daniels said the vehicle is up and running.
Fire Chief Dave Abbott reported that all equipment is in good condition and “nothing has broken this month.” The council voted to make the final payment on the department’s newest fire engine.
Public works director Ben Shoemaker reported that, from 2016 to Dec. 31, 2019, the city has saved 100 million gallons in water loss. Shoemaker also noted that he has received the majority of supplies needed for the Mill Street water project, including the permit. He said he plans to replace water valves at night so customers’ water isn’t affected.
Shoemaker mentioned the need for a new sand spreader. He presented a quote of $5,850 for purchase and installation. Shoemaker told the council that 72 new water meters have been installed and he is interested in purchasing another pallet of meters. The council approved both purchases.
Shoemaker reported the city’s DNR inspection is complete and there are several recommendations that will need to be addressed.
Shoemaker said he spoke with a representative regarding the leaking water tower and learned that the company will need to drain the tower to repair it. He is currently seeking information from another company that utilizes divers to repair the tower without draining it.
In other business, the council:
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with Arvest except the General, Court and Summer Ball accounts;
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budget;
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the 2020 McDonald County Schools Foundation Banquet;
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membership fee to the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team;
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concrete to the rocks on Main Street;
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$102,353.24.