Ozark Missouri Observer

Community Breakfast

2011-02-18T20:55:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

Just wanted to send out a reminder about our breakfast tomorrow. As usual, Grant has opened up his restaurant for us and will be serving a fantastic breakfast. I am pleased to announce that Shane Nelson, candidate for Mayor, will be joining us as well as James Haike, Ward 3 Alderman elect. If you haven't met Shane, please be sure to attend and get to know him.

I hope you can join us tomorrow morning at Grant's from 8 to 10 am.

Thanks and have a great day!!

Melissa Wagner

Community Breakfast

2011-01-11T21:57:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!!!

Grant has very generously agreed to let us have breakfast at his fine establishment this weekend. Hope to see you all at Grant's this coming Saturday from 8 - 10 am.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Breakfast

2010-12-13T14:22:00.000-06:00

I am sorry to say, but I will need to cancel our breakfast next weekend. My father has suffered a stroke and I have traveled to Dallas to be with him. We will get together again in January. If you know anyone who might attend but doesn't get this email, I would really appreciate it if you could give them a call and let them know.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Fwd: A New Assessor for Christian County

2010-12-02T15:51:00.000-06:00

All,

The Governor has just appointed David Stokely to be our next Christian County Assessor. See the message from Kay Brown below.

Melissa Wagner

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Kay Brown <kaybrown@christiancountymo.gov>
Date: Thu, Dec 2, 2010 at 3:43 PM
Subject: A New Assessor for Christian County
To: Kay Brown <kaybrown@christiancountymo.gov>

Good Afternoon,

The Governor has just appointed David Stokely to be the next Christian County Assessor. The Governor said to swear him in immediately and he will be sworn in tomorrow at 8:30 a.m. in the County Commission's office.

Sincerely,

Kay Brown

Kay Brown

Christian County Clerk

100 West Church Room 206

Ozark Mo 65721

phone: 417-581-6360 fax: 417-581-8331

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Current Candidates to be Considered for Assessor's Replacement Nomination

2010-11-21T20:15:00.000-06:00

All,

Here is the current list of people who have asked that they be considered for nomination to fill our county's vacant assessor position. Below you will find links to each person's resume and and cover letter (if provided). You will need to download John Boyd's to your machine. Just follow the link and then click the 'Download' button. I apologize for this, but I had to scan his resume and the file is too large to email.

We will be meeting in the courthouse this Tuesday to hear from each candidate and vote for a nominee by secret ballot. If you know of anyone else who is interested please let them know that they can still submit their resume and be considered. I will accept resumes until Tuesday afternoon.

Format / Rules:

1. Each candidate will draw a number to determine the order they are interviewed.

2. All candidates who are not being interviewed will wait downstairs for their turn.

3. Each candidate will have 2 minutes to introduce themselves followed by a question and answer session.

4. All candidates will return downstairs. The floor will be open for central committee discussion.

5. A secret ballot vote will be taken. If no clear majority is established, there will be a run-off secret ballot vote between the top two.

6. Should there be a tie for second in round 1, the top 3 will go to the run off (round 2). If there is no clear majority in the 3 way run-off. There will be a run-of for the top 2.

7. In the case that the run-off results in a tie, the Chairman with break the tie.

8. Once a clear winner is established, all the candidates will be invited back into the room for the results.

9. The following day, the nominee's name will be faxed to the Governor's office for consideration.

Angela Tremble - Cover Letter

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GHYWVLL1sop5AFqhGUk4kzxMstC3jinEHDC2urCkvVw/edit?hl=en&authkey=COHMrIsB

Angela Trumble - Resume

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wXITRAKrwRs4Mhk88Exe4mVOsh_u3Lmh7UqXX4R0W3Y/edit?hl=en&authkey=CM2moMUD

Alan Berry - Cover Letter

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HEUJ03xLwHph2bGmpmM11oWr3mMk0cT0wXh6pcjxQXM/edit?hl=en&authkey=CN2G6I8D

Alan Berry - Resume

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lFkOahpPmTltLpUjurKZQxp8G7oVkMhcF_SyC3YSrSc/edit?hl=en&authkey=CKWv85gN

Frank Lorenz - Resume

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dCEqpbuhhBAN4m5tSyuVVHMaQ2tAT97XvzeqbM366pY/edit?hl=en&authkey=CPXhvqwF

John Boyd - Resume page 1

https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjYzBjOWNiOTctOGZhYS00NGE5LWI1MmItYTViZTc4ODhhZWNi&hl=en&authkey=CMKf1lY

John Boyd - Resume page 2

https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjZWVmODNlZWUtZTQ3YS00ZjkwLWE5ZWUtNjllYTcwNjk4ZGVh&hl=en&authkey=CKXOhKsG

Karen Moody - See attachments.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast

2010-11-15T22:34:00.000-06:00

Howdy!

Our breakfast is back on for this Saturday! It will be at Grant's from 8:00 - 9:30 am. I can't wait to see everyone!!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

CANCELED: Community Breakfast

2010-10-15T19:22:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

I am embarrassed to admit this, but the month has gotten away from me, and I need to cancel our breakfast tomorrow. I didn't realize tomorrow was the 3rd Saturday until this morning. At any rate, I am going to cancel October's meeting and we can regroup in November. We should be well into the budget process and there will be a lot to talk about.

Also, as you may have noticed, The People's Signal Station/Quiznos is near completion. I challenge you to spend your hard earned dollars at a local gas station and sandwich shop that are not on the tax payer's dole. If you are on the the north side of town, I would recommend Bullseye or Rapid Roberts and there are a ton of other fine eateries in the area. Vote with your dollars!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

10-04 Council Meeting

2010-10-03T20:44:00.000-05:00

Howdy!

Here's all of Monday's meeting info:

Minutes to approve:

https://docs.google.com/document/edit?id=1HStr8EmKuIvYuCDMvcjxFWdLLR4wkIXLcPBmTEaRD1k&hl=en&authkey=CPrG1YkN
https://docs.google.com/document/edit?id=1qBpDQFVHsfXbam2usHY_wLlCGA-V0t-X5_vYA27IRwc&hl=en&authkey=CKCD5fEG
https://docs.google.com/document/edit?id=1AhciwbrplfCcO8QVJwZqY8-2ZSkmD_mFR5RmTKc4mBs&hl=en&authkey=CJjw5sEJ

Packet:
https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjZjM3NTE3MDMtNjQyYi00ODYxLWI1NTktMGE0NWQ2YjI5ZWIw&hl=en&authkey=CJaO27IE

Points of interest:

Internal Audit Bid - We are finally bidding out our internal audit. Unfortunately, staff has recommended the same firm that has been doing our internal audits since 1990. While they may do a fine job, I think it is necessary to change internal auditors on a predefined basis in order to get a fresh perspective on the city's financials. This would also protect the tax payers and the internal audit company by ensuring the results of an audit would not effect the company's future dealings with the city. For instance, if the internal audit company new they had a 3 year contract and then we would choose a new company they would feel free to give an honest audit (good or bad) and not be worried that the city would re-hire or fire them based on those results.

Business Registration - Bill to require all businesses that operate within Ozark proper to register and pay $45. Also would require anyone over 16 doing door to door sales to have a city issued permit at a cost of $20 and to have a background check. I am on the fence about this issue for a few reasons and am waiting to hear my counterparts' opinions before judgement.

Apartment building rehab - There is a company who would like a letter of support from the board regarding their application to the MO Housing Development Commission to referb a couple of apartment complexes in Ozark. I have a few questions regarding the funding mechanism for this project.

Ozark has be chosen as a DREAM Initiative city! This gives us special consideration for state economic grants and programs. We were one of 5 cities chosen.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Monday's Council Packet

2010-09-19T20:17:00.000-05:00

Howdy!!

Here's tomorrow's council packet. Happy reading!!!

Council Packet 09-20-10.pdf -

https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=1o_OMyfBp55E3bqXDULlWQP-n5QD5FfddNgtLYlTuwTAKDBA_KV5Ynmookn8d&hl=en&authkey=CObP4bMD

Have a great day!

Melissa Wagner

Community Breakfast

2010-09-17T15:16:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Don't forget! Our breakfast has moved to the 3rd Saturday....which is tomorrow. It will be at Grants from 8am to 10am. See you there!!!!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast!!

2010-08-26T21:39:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Our breakfast will be this Saturday at Grant's (the best restaurant in Ozark!!) from 8am to 10am. Our main topic with be the OC. Hope you can make it!!!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast!!

2010-07-30T10:00:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Don't forget: Community Breakfast tomorrow at Grants!!!! See you from 8 to 10 am.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Council Packet 07-19

2010-07-18T21:04:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Here is tomorrow's packet

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=1aMESMiM4uFhdTLrs3gBNTTfI5MGCq4zoAmw3xVamzV2Ca61nlDCFkkBu1Pfl&hl=en&authkey=COWR8K0P

Melissa

Council Packet 07-19

2010-07-18T20:50:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Here is tomorrow's packet

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=1aMESMiM4uFhdTLrs3gBNTTfI5MGCq4zoAmw3xVamzV2Ca61nlDCFkkBu1Pfl&hl=en&authkey=COWR8K0P

Melissa

Monday's Work Session Agenda

2010-07-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Here is the link to Monday's agenda.

Board of Alderman Agenda Work Session 07-12-10.doc - https://docs.google.com/document/edit?id=1w5DHaiw1cceepf69IDz6B1VNRd2_Fet8Pk-iC_eVnEw&hl=en&authkey=CI6agMIH

Tuesday's Council Packet

2010-07-02T20:55:00.001-05:00

Howdy!

Here is Tuesday's Council Packet:

board of aldermen packet 07-06-10.pdf - https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=1eNapP8kGiVo04tGD0KZchYZ7gAXp_wo2bvwP4XwV6c1LXDKBjIa11hRaPnuW&hl=en&authkey=CJXK6rsM

There is nothing exceptional on the agenda. Just some zoning changes and change to the way we handle public hearing for planning and zoning.

Have a great 4th!!! God bless America!

Community Breakfast

2010-06-22T22:14:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

It's that time again! Come out an join me for our monthly community breakfast on Saturday the 26th at Grant's on CC from 8 to 10. There will be great conversation and even better food.

Tentative topics for discussion:

City budget cuts
Agreement with the Special Road District
Waste Water Treatment plant power outage
Rolling Prairie Phase 6
OC Progress

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast

2010-05-25T20:50:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Come join me on Saturday at Grant's on CC from 8 to 10 for our monthly community breakfast. There is sure to be some interesting conversation and there will definitely be some GREAT food! Hope to see you there.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Monday's Meeting

2010-05-16T22:55:00.000-05:00

Howdy!

I don't have an e-version of the packet...it got scanned in sideways, so I'll give you a brief overview of the agenda:

First Readings:
Chris Snyder is offering a bill that will change the Aldermen meetings from Mondays to Tuesdays.

Resolutions:
Eddie Campbell is offering a resolution that will allow the Mayor to execute an IRIS software license agreement. IRIS is an emergency management system that will allow the city to reach citizens in emergency situations by phone, email, and other electronic means.

Rick Gardner is offering a resolution that will increase membership fees to the OC by 6%.

Dennis Sparrow is offering a resolution to award a bid for pool chemicals.

Amended Bills on First Reading:
Eddie Campbell is offering an amended bill regarding photography in enclosed municipal buildings during sporting events.

Second Readings:
I am offering a bill that will require businesses within Community Improvement Districts to display a sign that discloses the additional amount of sales tax they collect.

Rick Gardner if offering a bill that will create a Community Improvement District at J and N. 17th Street.

Chris Snyder is offering a bill that will annex into the city a lot on Liberty Ave.

Rick Gardner is offering a bill that will alter the original developers' agreement with Gunnett by removing Plazacorp from the agreement. This was the developer's agreement that was used as incentive for the B&B movie theater.

Reports:
Employee Manual update
Old Community Building update
Status of negotiations with the special road district
Declaring surplus vehicles
Awarding bid for removal of hay of the ball field property.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

MO State Auditor's Assessment of TDD's (Transportation Development Districts) from 2007

2010-05-10T19:21:00.002-05:00

Howdy!

While researching special taxing districts in MO, I found this interesting press release from State Auditor Susan Montee's Office from 2007. The next time you shop in a business located within a TDD, you should encourage them to post their additional sales tax in a prominent location as per state law. The Missouri Statute is 238.280. You can read it here: http://www.moga.mo.gov/statutes/C200-299/2380000280.HTM

http://www.auditor.mo.gov/news/20070719tdd.htm --

"MEDIA ADVISORY

MONTEE FINDS TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS CONTINUE TAXING MISSOURIANS WITHOUT THEIR KNOWLEDGE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday July 19, 2007
CONTACT: Samantha Brewer, Public Affairs Coordinator
(573) 751-5313
E-mail: Samantha.Brewer@auditor.mo.gov

"In their current form, Missouri's TDDs are about as close as you can get to taxation without representation," State Auditor Susan Montee said. "The General Assembly needs to take action or Missourians will continue to pay these higher taxes with little or no input into what they are paying or how their money is spent."

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Missouri State Auditor Susan Montee released an audit of Transportation Development Districts (TDDs). As of December 31, 2005, 98 TDDs had been established in Missouri, including 29 established in 2005. An additional 22 were established in 2006. While previous audit of TDDs (SAO Report No. 2006-12, issued March 2006) reported various issues in the areas of public awareness/involvement, accountability, and compliance, the 2007 General Assembly made only one change to the TDD statutes addressing issues reported in the prior audit.

TDDs are established for the construction of transportation-related projects, and governed by a board of directors with the authority to impose sales taxes within that district to pay those costs. In 95 percent of the districts the property owner/developer petitioned for its creation. All of the districts have additional sales tax on retail items sold within the districts' boundaries imposed by the property owner/developer. This results in higher sales tax than the retail establishments outside the district's boundaries. The TDDs are created without public input and sales tax is increased without a public vote.

Officials or representatives of 97 of the TDDs reported total estimated transportation project costs of over $923 million, while 87 of those TDDs reported total estimated revenues of over $1 billion would be collected over the lives of the TDDs.

The current audit found issues in the areas of construction contracts and project management, professional services, budgetary matters, and financial reporting. Competitive bids were either not solicited or appropriate bidding procedures could not be determined. Written contracts related to the construction or construction management services were not always prepared or approved in a timely manner. Requests for proposals for various professional services were either not properly solicited or documentation was not available to provide assurance that such proposals were solicited.

Various matters were noted related to transportation projects costs claimed for reimbursement by developers. For example, it appeared the costs claimed by a developer for reimbursement were included twice, overstating reimbursement requests by approximately $123,800. In addition, in one district, customers of the major retailer in the district were incorrectly charged sales tax at a rate higher than that approved by the district for an 8-month period, resulting in an overpayment of sales taxes by the retailer to the district of approximately $60,000 for this time period."

--

Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
http://www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com/
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Lunch Meeting

2010-05-10T09:24:00.001-05:00

Howdy!

The council will be meeting to day at noon to discuss revisions to our Design Guideline Standars, Constructions Specifications and Standard Details Including an Application for Stormwater Detention Buy-Out. We were going to be discussing new Park Board by-laws, but that has been pushed to our May 17th meeting.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Today's Lunch Meeting

2010-04-26T08:09:00.001-05:00

Today's work session agenda:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMzdnazU2cTNmMg&hl=en

City/Chamber contract to cost share for a Chamber Director:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMzloZnBuYnNmcQ&hl=en

This meeting is open to the public and will be held at City Hall at noon. There will probably be some discussion on the Resignation of the most recent Chamber Director, Greg Dainiels.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Discussion of CIDs in the Headliner

2010-04-22T22:05:00.001-05:00

All,

Over the past two weeks the discussion of CIDs and economic incentives have been a hot topic in the City of Ozark and in the Christian County Headliner. The reason this has been such a hot topic is due to two particular bills in front of the board of aldermen. One will create a new CID across the street from Bullseye to support a new gas station. The other will require any business located within a CID or TDD to post a sign that they collect an extra tax to be displayed on their door or registers. You can follow the discussion here:

April 14th - Headliner Staff Editorial
http://www.ccheadliner.com/articles/2010/04/14/opinion/doc4bc4909d127b9181198871.txt

April 21st -- Headliner Story on the discussion of tax notification at last Monday's city council meeting. I would like to note that two others, Kenny Martin and Ron Kissee, spoke on behalf of the bill but were not mentioned in the article. Also Frank Lorenz spoke out against it.
http://www.ccheadliner.com/articles/2010/04/21/news/doc4bcdd4fc4b7f6074791710.txt

April 21st -- My Guest Letter
http://www.ccheadliner.com/articles/2010/04/21/opinion/doc4bcdcf697b507667118315.txt

Take a look and weigh the arguments. Let me know what you think.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast

2010-04-21T21:53:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone! The last Saturday of the month is this coming Saturday and it nearly snuck up on me! Let's plan on breakfast at Grant's from 8 - 10. We have a lot to talk about, including our new addition to the board, Eddie Campbell. We can also discuss the upcoming CID proposals you may have been reading about in the headliner. Hope to see you all there!!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

IMPORTANT: April 19th Council Meeting - CID/TDD Tax Notification

2010-04-18T23:14:00.000-05:00

All,

Tomorrow's meeting will be of great importance and if you can make it I would encourage you do so. I do not have the agenda and packet in e-form, but here is a general break down of the issues and why they are important:

CID Sales Tax Notification

Unless it gets tabled for a second time, the bill I've sponsored to create mandatory tax rate notification will go on its first reading. This bill will require that businesses located within TDDs and CIDs disclose their special tax rates on their doors or registers. This will ensure consumers and citizens know what they are being taxed and why.

Scrivener Oil CID Creation Bill

This bill, if passed, will create a CID on the corner of CC and 17th St. The CID will support a gas station and allow the owner to impose an extra 1 cent sales tax upon all taxable goods. The owner would be able to use the extra tax collected on certain improvements to the property. I did not support this bill the first time it was introduced, and I do not support it now. I feel it will create a unfair competitive advantage that will increase our taxes and be detrimental to the two existing gas stations located within walking distance of the this lot.

Property Rights vs. Protection of Property Values

There is a public hearings on the agenda for a bill that will place restrictions on property owners for the purpose of making residential properties more aesthetically pleasing. This bill is not in its final version yet, but it is imperative that the public come and give their input before the final draft is complete. This public hearing is that opportunity. Specifically, this bill will place restrictions on what types of vehicles you can park on your property, where/how you can park them, and how many of them you can park. Its focus is on commercial vehicles (from cars with commercial decals to dump trucks) and recreational vehicles such as boats and RVs.

Please come out to the meeting if you can.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Lunch Meeting: Discussion on Signs, Parking, and Storage

2010-04-12T08:52:00.001-05:00

Howdy!

I don't have today's packet in electronic format. We will be discussing sign, parking and storage ordinances. While I have a general opinion about regulation of such things, I am still working on the research for these particular bills. I will provide a more in depth opinion before the bills go up for their first reading.

On a side note:

Do you believe that businesses within special taxing districts (CIDs, TDDs) should be required to disclose their extra tax rates in the form of a sign on their door or at the register? My bill to require such will be presented to the board a week from today. If you feel this is an important measure, I challenge you to attend next Monday's meeting and let your position be known.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Election Success!

2010-04-06T22:11:00.001-05:00

All,

Please welcome me in congratulating Ozark's newest Alderman, Eddie Campbell!! Thank you to everyone who helped make his campaign a success. He is going to make a fine addition to the Ozark Board of Aldermen, and I am excited to begin working with him.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

UPDATE:Tonight's Council Meeting

2010-04-05T17:01:00.002-05:00

Here is tonight's council packet:

https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjMDZiZDYyMzctZGVkMi00ZWY3LWI4YzAtODgxZjEzZTllODZl&hl=en

Tonight's Council Meeting

2010-04-05T11:26:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!!

Here is the agenda for tonight's meeting:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMzNjNDM1dzdnZw&hl=en

I don't have an e-version of the packet, my apologies.

One item you may find interesting is Bill#2497. I am introducing this bill that will, if passed, require that businesses who choose to impose special taxes upon themselves display that extra sales tax on their entrances or register. These extra sales taxes come in the form of CIDs and TDDs. These tools allow business to collect extra sales tax, on top of the normal sales tax, and use that sales tax for a number of different purposes. Because these special taxes are not voted on by the general public, many people do not realize they pay these taxes when they shop in certain districts of our city. This bill will ensure the citizens of Ozark are aware of the taxes they are paying, allowing us to be more informed consumers and citizens. I don't have an e-version of this bill but here is the major section of it:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF ALDERMEN OF THE CITY OF OZARK, MISSOURI, AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Title I "GOVERNMENT CODE", Chapter 100 "GENERAL PROVISIONS", Article IV "CITY SALES TAX" of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Ozark is hereby amended by adding one new Section thereto, which new Section shall read as follows:

"SECTION 130.150: DISCLOSURE OF ADDITIONAL SALES TAX

Any business within the City of Ozark that is also located within a quasi-governmental entity authorized by the Statutes of the State of Missouri and created by an act of the Board of Aldermen, to include, but not limited to, Community Improvement Districts (CID) and Transportation Development Districts (TDD), which has elected to impose an additional sales tax upon goods and/or services for the purpose of re-paying infrastructure improvements shall post, in a conspicuous location at the entrance to the establishment or the location where payment is received, the following notice printed in at least 55 point bold type:

'This establishment charges an additional sales tax of (insert the actual sales tax imposed) on each purchase for the payment of certain improvements in this District."

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast will be at Grants Restaurant

2010-03-26T18:14:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Sorry for the late reminder. I have been on vacation all week. Breakfast will be tomorrow at Grants from 8 to 10 am. Hope you can make it!!!!!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Lunch Meeting: Economic Development

2010-03-22T10:15:00.001-05:00

Howdy!

The topic of today's meeting is Economic Development. Below you can find the Agenda. Also, staff sent out a questionnaire to find out what the Aldermen's perspective was on Economic Development and the tool provided to us to stimulate it.

Agenda:

https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMjhmN2tzZjVkeg&hl=en

Questionnaire:

https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMjdkanI2N2RjOA&hl=en
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

New Poll: Should Ozark use CIDs for Economic Development?

2010-03-19T12:41:00.005-05:00

Do you believe that Ozark should use CIDs for economic development?surveys

Council Meeting Packet

2010-03-14T17:00:00.001-05:00

Howdy!!

Here is tomorrow's Council Meeting Packet.

https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjMjYzMTVhN2ItOTFiZC00ZjYwLTk2MmEtOTUyZmZhMjM1ZmI2&hl=en

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Monday's Council Packet

2010-02-27T21:34:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

Here is Monday's agenda and most of the packet. I didn't receive it all in e-format, so I am giving you what I have.

Agenda:

https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMjJmdzQ4bnRkbQ&hl=en

Allied Waste Contract - the major change in this contract from the original contract is that your trash can will now have to be an Allied Waste issued can so they can perform automated pick ups. If you have an opinion on whether or not your trash can type should be mandated by the city, I would suggest you come out to the meeting and voice your opinion after this bills 1st reading.

https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMjRncXhmZ3Jjcg&hl=en

Downtown Redevelopment Property loan restructure. This bill will allow us to make interest only payments on the loans the city took out to pay for a portion of the property downtown. I believe the idea is to pay interest only until we can get a project that will generate sales tax revenue to cover the loan payments or until we can sell. This will work if we get a good project soon enough, BUT if the city gets stuck with the land, this deal will increase the amount we pay for the land over the life of the loan. This has been deemed an emergency bill because the payment will be due on March first. So if you have an opinion, this meeting will be the time to state it.

https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMjZocGI2cWJnYw&hl=en

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast

2010-02-23T21:08:00.001-06:00

Howdy Everyone!!

Just a reminder that our community breakfast will be this Saturday at Grant's American Cafe from 8 to 10 am. We had a great turn out last month. I hope you all can make it!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Tuesday's Council Packet - Important Budget Amendment Regarding the OC

2010-02-14T20:32:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

Here is the council packet for Tuesday's council meeting. The meeting will be on Tuesday due to the Monday being a holiday.

https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjNjUxOGE5NjMtNzU3OS00YmVhLWEyODgtYmFlOTU5OTVjNTdk&hl=en

There is one major item of interest on the agenda dealing with an outstanding bill the city owes to Branco for the construction of the OC. The city currently owes Branco $395,266.99. The solution being proposed is found ,in part, in Resolution 1642. Res.1642 will establish a repayment schedule with Branco over the next 12 months which will essentially work like a loan. Here are the terms according to Exhibit 'A' of the resolution:

1. An initial installment payment of $150,000 to be paid by Feb 26th.

2. 6% interest will be applied to the remaining $245,267.

3. Payments starting March 1 will be $7,461.50 each month through November 1.

4. A balloon payment of $182,401.02 will be due December 1.

5. "If final payment goes beyond 12/1/2010, the interest rate will change to %1.5 per month as allowed by the State of Missouri".

6. "There will be no penalty for early payment. However interest is to be paid through the time of final payment and no credit for previous interest payments will be allowed against remaining balance".

7. If the balance is re-payed on time, the total interest payed over the life of the loan will be $ 11,749.03.

The second portion of the agreement will determine how we will make the $150,000 installment payment. Emergency Bill 2488 proposes budget amendments to cover this payment as follows:

1. $150,000 will be transfered from the Capital Improvements fund to the Parks/Stormwater Sales Tax Fund (the OC sales tax).

2. There is not an amendment specifying where the $150,000 is originally coming from, so I am assuming it will be taken out of the 2009 carryover balance which currently has about $181,000 in it.

I do not like this at all, but it is what it is. We owe Branco this money. I am just glad to see that the money does not appear to be coming from the street line item of the Capital Improvement fund. Hopefully the sales tax and OC will bring in enough revenue to cover the monthly payments and the final balloon payment in December. I will not support any budget amendments that skim money from our streets and infrastructure projects to subsidize the OC.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

2009 and 2010 Budgets

2010-02-11T21:45:00.000-06:00

I have been asked to post the 2009 and 2010 budgets. Here is the council packet they came in:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjZmU2MDNkZmEtNzIyMC00MDE0LWJlNmUtYzUyY2U4NTk0MTVk&hl=en

I didn't realize I hadn't posted them here. My apologies.

Thanks,
Melissa

February 8, 2010 Meeting.

2010-02-08T13:13:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

The city council is having a retreat tonight concerning transportation in the City of Ozark. It is an informal presentation type meeting, but you all are welcome! It will go from 5:30 to 8:00.

Thanks,

Melissa

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Lana Wilson <lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org>
Date: Mon, Feb 8, 2010 at 11:34 AM
Subject: February 8, 2010 Meeting.
To: Rick Gardner <rick@homegardners.com>, Chris Snyder <csnyder.ozark@gmail.com>, Dennis Sparrow <dsparrow@cebridge.net>, Mike Esterl <mjcomet@msn.com>, "Bradley A. Jackson" <tcbonthelisamarie@yahoo.com>, Mark Spinabella <spin@mwfmarketing.fm>, Melissa Wagner <melissadwagner@gmail.com>, Melissa Wagner <melissa.wagner@freight.fedex.com>

Hi everyone this is just a reminder of tonights meeting. Dinner will be served at 5:15 p.m. and the meeting wil begin at 5:30. See you tonight and have a good day. Lana

City Council Packet for 2-1-10

2010-01-30T12:26:00.001-06:00

Howdy!

Here is the council packet for Monday's meeting. What a great breakfast this morning!! Thanks to everyone who braved the weather and was able to join us. A a big thanks to Grant for allowing us to use his restaurant!!

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjOGNmZGFjMmItNzk0Ni00MWNjLWIxMzktZGU4ZjhkOTk3ZTBm&hl=en

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast

2010-01-29T21:22:00.001-06:00

Howdy!

I hope you all are surviving the the snow!!! I am still planing to hold our community breakfast tomorrow, so I hope you can make it! Be safe!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Fwd: Community Breakfast will be at Grants Restaurant

2010-01-25T07:43:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! I forgot to mention that the breakfast will be held from 8 to 10.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Melissa Wagner <melissadwagner@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, Jan 24, 2010 at 7:16 PM
Subject: Community Breakfast will be at Grants Restaurant
To:

Howdy!

Our Community Breakfast will be at Grants Restaurant this Saturday the 30th. Don't go the Village Inn...we won't be there!!

The owner of Grant's, Grant, has been so generous! He is going to specially open his restaurant for our event! This will be great as we'll have the place to ourselves and it will be quiet. Hope to see you all there!!

Grant's is on CC across from Lambert's.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Community Breakfast will be at Grants Restaurant

2010-01-24T19:16:00.001-06:00

Howdy!

Our Community Breakfast will be at Grants Restaurant this Saturday the 30th. Don't go the Village Inn...we won't be there!!

Grant's is on CC across from Lambert's.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Tomorrow's Luch Meeting Agenda and Packet

2010-01-24T09:00:00.001-06:00

Howdy,

Here is the agenda for tomorrows' lunch meeting:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjNGFkYmQyZTUtZTBlOS00ODlhLTg2MDgtNDQyMTg4ZmM3MWEy&hl=en

It is a pretty packed agenda and I wonder if we will get to it all.

You will notice there is an emergency bill on the agenda. It is a bill that is required to finalize the ballot language for the upcoming municipal race. The reason it is on as an emergency bill is because it filing closed only 2 hours before our last official meeting so there was no time to prepare it, and it is due to the county clerk on Tuesday. I feel that this, unlike other bills and resolutions we have addressed at lunch meeting, is an appropriate reason to conduct business at our lunch meetings.

The bill:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMTdmODhtOTNnOQ&hl=en

We will also be discussing the state of construction bonds in the city of Ozark. Until just a few years ago the city allowed developers to take out bonds (lines of credit) in lieu of completing their infrastructure before they started building homes. This way, the developer could start creating the revenue necessary to complete the roads, sidewalks, and stormwater. This seemed like a good process until developers started going under, leaving the city with a large number of subdivisions with incomplete infrastructure. The following documents list the subdivisions that have bonds and incomplete infrastructure and when those are due. Two things to keep in mind: 1. Not all of the developers on this list are in financial trouble. Some of them are still in the midst of developing and fully intend to complete their infrastructure. 2. We can only collect on a bond if the developer has sold 75% of their lots.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjNTE0NzM5NzgtNTBlZi00ODk4LWEyNTMtYzQxOGY3NDg5MjFl&hl=en

Last but not least, you may have noticed that I am no longer video taping the city council meeting. My video camera broken...well the charger is anyway, and I can't find a replacement for it. Since I have to pay for a new one with my own money, I have not been able to purchase a new one yet. Plus the audio was terrible on that one and you couldn't understand half of what was being said. If you know of someone who would like to donate one I would be happy to continue to video the meetings.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Interview on KSGF

2010-01-20T17:55:00.000-06:00

Howdy!

I was invited to do an interview on KSGF with Bruce Delay yesterday morning on the topic of local government. You can listen to the audio here:

http://www.ksgf.com/DesktopModules/Orizonti_NukeNews/getLink.aspx?pid=67&tid=6853&newsid=53745

Riverside Bridge

2010-01-20T17:01:00.000-06:00

Howdy!

As I am sure all of you know by now, the county commissioners are considering the removal/replacement of the old Riverside Bridge. I know this is not 'officially' the City of Ozark's business, but I think it's important.

I have not lived here my whole life, and I am not usually a sentimental person when it comes to things like buildings and bridges, BUT something really struck a nerve with me when I heard we might be losing this beautiful bridge. I our city and our community would suffer a great loss if this landmark were to be torn down.

This being said, I know my opinion comes with some limitations.
1. While the bridge is most impressive from my kayak in the Finley, I do not have to drive over this bridge every day. The beauty of the bridge is not worth any injury or loss of life should something happen.
2. The city has no official say or money to use to influence the fate of this bridge. Although, I hope to see the county and the city and any other interested parties working together to find a solution.

So, all I really have is an opinion, and it alone is not going to restore or replace any bridges.

I also do not have a solution. I know there are many organizations, including the Christian County Historical Society looking into it and many suggestions have been made. I don't think we have enough information at this point.

Unfortunately, as with most things in government, this will probably come down to.....well....money. The only solution that has an estimated cost and funding mechanism is the one where the county tears down the bridge and builds a new one. We need to find out how much it will cost to do the other many solutions (moving it, restoration, pedestrian bridge, etc) and then find a way to pay for them other than through the county or city coffers.

Saving the Riverside Bridge will be a difficult but noble en devour. Again, I don't have the solution and frankly I don't know a thing about saving bridges or historical things. I just know that there are possible solutions, and I want to see the county explore them all ad nauseam. Tearing down the bridge should be the last resort.

The Headliner and Kris Dyer with the Christian County Historical Society are leading the way in exposing this issue and in brainstorming for solutions and funding. Checkout the Headliner's articles:

http://www.ccheadliner.com/articles/2010/01/20/news/doc4b55ed04efa88026777240.txt

http://www.ccheadliner.com/articles/2010/01/20/opinion/doc4b55e43de8578935849487.txt

Also, if you have any ideas and would like to become active in this effort please contact Kris Dyer. You can catch her on her facebook group "Save Riverside Bridge".

Don't Forget! City Council Meeting will be on Tuesday this week

2010-01-17T11:25:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

Here is the council packet for Tuesday's meeting.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjOGFkMmVlZjQtMDBhNS00ZTIzLTkxNzQtZjUwN2QxOTc2OWZh&hl=en

Here is the employee manual. Although the first reading was given at our last lunch meeting, if you find and thing of concern in it let me know and I will bring it up at Tuesday's meeting. I had to separate it into 3 parts because it was so big.

Part 1:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMTZjNTU3bXpkdA&hl=en

Part 2:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMTVmcmtodDlmaA&hl=en

Part 3:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMTRjOGdiZGpmeg&hl=en

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

New Poll: Official Business at Lunch Meetings?

2010-01-11T19:46:00.000-06:00

Do you feel official business should be conducted at Ozark's Board of Aldermen lunch meetings?(poll)

Monday's Work Session

2010-01-10T18:57:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

Here is the agenda and information for Monday's work session. It is open to the public and will be held at noon in council chambers.

Agenda:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMTJ2NHoyNjRobg&hl=en

Summary of Changes to the employee handbook for Bill 2479:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjOGQ2MjA0ZGQtODNiOS00NDkxLThhYzYtMTgyMTVlZGVhMjY4&hl=en

Bill 2479:

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AaI2JOdCdMVjZGN6cHh0czVfMTFkZGZkZDZ6dA&hl=en

I am going to ask that the first reading of Bill 2479 be held over until a regular Monday evening meeting. The first reading of a bill is technically the only time citizens can stand up and speak for or against a particular bill. Because of this, I do not think it is appropriate to put bills on their first reading at lunch meetings. In fact, unless it is an emergency, I do not feel like any business should be conducted at these meetings. I do feel, however, that they are a great opportunity for us to have discussions and for staff to give us presentation.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Council Packet and Legal Annual Report

2009-12-31T19:47:00.001-06:00

Howdy!

Here is the City's annual Legal report as provided by David C. It lists all pending, ongoing, and closed legal actions that the city was involved with over 2009.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjNjMyMjM2M2QtOTk0OS00MGI2LTkwNDItNmNiYzgwZDQyNjVm&hl=en

Here is Monday's City Council Packet:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjZGNkZDhiZGEtMmQ0NC00YmUwLTg4YzgtNTc1Mzg2ZGZmZjBj&hl=en

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Council Meeting

2009-12-29T20:10:00.001-06:00

Howdy!

Our next council meeting is tomorrow night at 7. We will be approving the final budget then. I have included a link to the council packet.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6I2JOdCdMVjZmU2MDNkZmEtNzIyMC00MDE0LWJlNmUtYzUyY2U4NTk0MTVk&hl=en

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Conceal and Carry Descision

2009-12-17T21:50:00.001-06:00

Howdy!!

Since our City Attorney carrying a weapon appears to be such big news, I felt I better address it. Honestly, I was a little surprised by all the commotion. I would expect an uproar if we were somewhere on one of the coasts. Maybe even St. Louis or KCY, but not in Ozark.

I can only speak for my vote in support on the matter, which I will happily do. I think anyone who is lawfully able to carry a weapon should. I did not vote for this because I am in fear for my safety. I have never felt unsafe in city hall so I am not sure that David's carrying of a weapon could make me feel any safer. I say this meaning no disrespect to David. Due to his service to our Great Nation, for which I am grateful, I am sure he is more than capable of safely and proficiently carrying and, if necessary, using a firearm.

My vote was simply a matter of upholding our City Attorney's right to carry, and I would have voted the same for anyone else. It is about protecting an individual's right to protect their own person.

Frankly, I would not even be in opposition to citizens lawfully carrying in city hall. We all encounter untold numbers of concealed weapons each day and I don't feel any less safe encountering them in city hall than I do in Walmart or Bullseye or any other location. To place a false distinction between city hall and nearly everywhere else may be comforting, but it's not realistic and merely provides a false sense of security.

If some one wants to reek havoc on city hall, they will do it. They will not care about our city ordinances and my guess is they will not be the type of person who could even get a conceal and carry permit.

So...if you haven't guessed already, I think the 2nd Amendment is pretty great. And even though it was only for one guy, I am proud to have been given a relitivly small and perhaps insignificant opportunity help uphold it.

Canceled: December's Community Breakfast

2009-12-10T21:20:00.001-06:00

Howdy!

Due to the last Saturday in December being so close to Christmas, I am canceling it. Let's plan to meet in January for an end of year update. We'll talk about the approved 2010 budget and what's in store for the upcoming year. Enjoy your Christmas!!!!!

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

New! Your Input Poll: Employee Severance Packages

2009-11-10T21:26:00.007-06:00

Should government employees recieve severance pay?(trends)

Fwd: Meeting Agenda 11-16-09

2009-11-06T00:07:00.001-06:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

MONDAY, November 16, 2009

12:00 P.M. BOARD OF ALDERMEN WORK SESSION

POSTED November 05, 2009 Ordinance #09-

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:
FIRST READING BILLS:
RESOLUTIONS:
EMERGENCY BILLS:
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):
GRANTS:
AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee: City Administrator Steve Childers-

1. Review Amendments to the 2010 Budget Wrap

Up Expenditures- Administrative, Police,

Streets, Municipal Court and Capital

Improvement Funds.

Visitor-Greg Williams, Connell Insurance.

Discuss Sub Contractor Agreements.

Project Manager Cara Jones-

Update on RFQ Process.
Departmental Goals and Accomplishments for 2009 and 2010.
Review and Discussion of Compensation Analysis.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

SCHEDULED VISITORS:

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

The tentative Agenda of this meeting may include a vote to close part of this meeting to discuss Litigation-Personnel-Real Estate pursuant to RSMO: 610-021 (1,2,3) and such other matters as may come before the Board.

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk's Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

(To be posted at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of the Meeting on a bulletin board or other prominent place which is easily accessible to the public and clearly designated for posting notices at the principal office of the Municipal Corporation or Political Subdivision or, if no such office exists, at the building in which the meeting is to be held). In accordance with ADA Guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending City Meetings, please notify the City Clerk's Office at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

CALL TO ACTION: 2010 Budget

2009-11-05T12:50:00.000-06:00

Howdy!

As you may know, the board of aldermen are in the midst of budget discussions for 2010. Creating a budget is arguably the most important function of the board and can determine the whole atmosphere of a city for the following year. This is the time when your elected officials can truly represent and serve you by putting your tax dollars where you feel they need to go. Budget planning is always difficult, but in this time of economic distress deciding on priorities is all the more difficult.

CALL TO ACTION:

PLEASE call BOTH of your aldermen and the Mayor and let them know what your priorities for our city are in 2010.

Go Tigers!!!

2009-10-30T12:49:00.002-05:00

Congrats to our Ozark Tigers Football Team!!

This came from the CCHeadliner:

TIGERS: District football champs!

First playoff

By: Brady Brite, reporter bradyb@ccheadliner.com

Published:

Friday, October 30, 2009 12:45 PM CDT

Sometimes, things just fall into place. The Tigers' 2009 football season may be the best example in recent Christian County sports. The embattled Tigers' overtime win in the Backyard Brawl turned out to be the deciding game in their season, as they've officially become Class 5, District 7 champs after Parkview's 29-18 upset over Kickapoo Oct. 29.

The Chiefs' loss knocks them out of playoff contention and leaves Ozark and Nixa the only two standing in Class 5, District 7 football. Nixa has a game left to play, but they'll be runner-up regardless; the Tigers' Backyard Brawl win would serve as the deciding tie-breaker if they both end up 3-1.

Ozark is awarded a first-round Bye as district champs, making their first playoff game Nov. 9. They'll take on the winner of the first-round matchup between the District 9 winner and the District 8 runner-up. The District 8 runner-up is already decided: Lee's Summit West, a 7-3 overall team with a 2-1 district record. But the District 9 title is still in the air. Raytown South (6-3, 2-0) will play Raytown (3-6, 2-0) the night of Oct. 30 to decide who will be Lee's opponent Nov. 4. The winner of that match will face the well-rested Tigers.

Where they'll play is also undetermined at present. MSHSAA guidelines state that if a district winner plays a district runner-up, the district winner gets homefield advantage. But if both teams are district winners or runners-up, the game's location depends on the year: The team on top of the bracket hosts in odd years; the bottom-bracket team hosts in even years.

So if Ozark's game is with Lee's Summit West, it'll be played in Ozark since Lee was runner-up in its district. If the game should be against a Raytown squad, it'll be played in Raytown since 2009 as an odd year will put the top bracket—Raytown in this scenario—as the host.

The unexpected continues to be the story of the 2009 Ozark Tiger football squad. But if there's one thing you can expect, it's the Headliner's continued total coverage. The Tiger Blog will be live from every playoff game, complete with on-field analysis. Mark your calendars for Nov. 9, and your Web browsers for www.mofridaynightfootball.com.

It's playoff time, and the Tigers are in.

Riverside Inn

2009-10-29T20:57:00.001-05:00

Howdy!

If you have any interest in Christian County's participation in the Riverside Inn/FEMA situation, it is on the agenda for Monday's Commissioners' meeting. Discussion on the topic will begin at 1 pm in at the Christian County Courthouse. I have included the official agenda.

CHRISTIAN COUNTY COMMISSION 2009

Notice of Public Meeting

Posted @ 8:00 a.m. October 30, 2009

*******OCTOBER TERM*******

Notice is hereby given that the Christian County Commission will meet in regular session at:

The Christian County Courthouse

100 W. Church Street Room 100

on: November 2, 2009

This notice of meeting was posted in the locked box located on the south side of the Christian County Courthouse, a place readily accessible to the general public and remained posted at least 24 hours preceding the scheduled time of said meeting.

This notice was also posted on the Christian County Web site:

www.christiancountymo.gov

8:45 a.m. Karen Matthews, Treasurer

Re: Investments

9:00 a.m. Bid Opening for Sheriff's Office

Re: S.U.V Purchase

9:15 a.m. Joey Kyle, Sheriff

Re: Discussion about Inmate Healthcare

10:00 a.m. Sam Yarnell, Auditor

Re: Budget Study Session

11:00 a.m. Davis, Lynn & Moots, Auditors

Re: Contract Signing, Audit 2009

1:00 p.m. Sheila Huddleston, SEMA

Re: Mitigation Grant (Riverside Inn)

The agenda of this meeting may include a vote to close a portion of the meeting pursuant to 610.021 of the Missouri Sunshine Law.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

New! Your Input Poll: 2010 Budget

2009-10-25T18:40:00.002-05:00

Ozark is in the midst of 2010 budget planning. How do you want your tax dollars spent next year?(survey)

10-21-2009 Ozark MO Board of Aldermen Meeting Video

2009-10-25T18:18:00.000-05:00

Monday 10-26-09 Noon Meeting

2009-10-22T17:04:00.001-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

MONDAY OCTOBER 26, 2009

12:00 P.M. COUNCIL MEETING

POSTED 10-22-09 Ordinance #09-041

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

A. BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:

B. FIRST READING BILLS:

C. RESOLUTIONS:

D. EMERGENCY BILLS:

E. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):

F. GRANTS:

G. AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee: 2010 Budget

A. Streets

B. Stormwater

C. Capital Improvements

2. Public Safety:

3. Public Works:

4. Park: 1. Discussion of Park Board Annual Report.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

SCHEDULED VISITORS:

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk’s Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

(To be posted at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of the Meeting on a bulletin board or other prominent place which is easily accessible to the public and clearly designated for posting notices at the principal office of the Municipal Corporation or Political Subdivision or, if no such office exists, at the building in which the meeting is to be held). In accordance with ADA Guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending City Meetings, please notify the City Clerk’s Office at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

10-06-2009 Ozark Board of Aldermen Meeting

2009-10-13T21:58:00.001-05:00

09-201-2009 Ozark MO Board of Aldermen Meeting Video

2009-10-05T11:58:00.000-05:00

Budget and Luncheon Meeting Schedule

2009-09-26T21:30:00.001-05:00

2010 Budget
Scheduled Meetings



Date	Time	Budgets or Discussion

September 28, 2009	Noon Luncheon	Flexible lot Sizes
	Held at O.C.

October 12, 2009	Noon Luncheon	Proposed Expenditures:
		Space Needs

October 19, 2009	5:30pm - 7:00pm	Proposed Expenditures:
	(Dinner @ 5:15pm)	Water, Sewer

		Proposed Expenditures:
October 26, 2009	Noon Luncheon	3rd Party Consult & Insp.,
		Backflow, Grease Trap

November 2, 2009	5:30pm - 7:00pm	Wrap up Expenditures
	(Dinner @ 5:15pm)

November 9, 2009	Noon Luncheon	Sidewalk Ownership

November 16, 2009	5:30pm - 7:00pm	Proposed Reveunes & Expenditures:
	(Dinner @ 5:15pm)	Park, Pool, Park Impact Fees, O.C.

November 23, 2009	Noon Luncheon	Business Lic, Contractor, Vendor

November 30, 2009	7:00pm	Wrap up: All Revenues & Expenditures

December 7, 2009	7:00pm	2010 Budget - First Reading

December 21, 2009	7:00pm	2010 Budget - Passage

Monday's Work Session Agenda

2009-09-26T21:28:00.001-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2009

12:00 P.M. BOARD OF ALDERMEN WORK SESSION

POSTED September 24, 2009 Ordinance #09-

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

A. BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:

B. FIRST READING BILLS:

C. RESOLUTIONS:

D. EMERGENCY BILLS:

E. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):

F. GRANTS:

G. AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee: Discuss flexible Lot Sizes.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

SCHEDULED VISITORS:

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk's Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

Lunch Meeting 09-14-09 Minutes

2009-09-18T14:53:00.000-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

September 14, 2009

Lunch Work Session

12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Ozark City Council met in a Lunch Work Session at 12:00 p.m. at the City Hall in Ozark, Missouri. All Councilpersons attended with Alderman Chris Snyder absent. Mayor Bradley A. Jackson presided over the meeting: Alderman Mike Esterl, Alderman Mark Spinabella, Alderman Dennis Sparrow, Alderman Melissa Wagner and Alderman Rick Gardner. City Administrator Steve Childers, City Treasurer Alice Edwards, GIS Coordinator Marcus Heilman and City Clerk Lana Wilson attended the meeting.

12:00 p.m.

New Business:

MS4 Permitting Draft Ordinance.

GIS Coordinator Marcus Heilman presented the MS4 Draft Ordinance to the Board of Aldermen with the main purpose to discuss the importance of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permitting process. The main function of the MS4 permitting is to enforce regulations to retain clean waterways in our community. The City will be responsible for enforcement of these regulations instituted by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Board of Aldermen discussed Section 430.160: Cost of Abatement of the Violation, and whether or not interest should be charged on violation assessments. The consensus of the Board of Aldermen was not to impose interest on the violation assessments.

The Board of Aldermen discussed various public violations that citizens may not be aware are violations, such as, burning in ditch lines. City Administrator Steve Childers stated our burning Codes may have to be modified to coordinate with the MS4 requirements.

City Administrator Steve Childers informed the Board of Aldermen of various Citizens educational processes that Staff will be implementing.

Mayor Bradley A. Jackson asked if a violation occurs in the MoDot right-of-way inside the City Limits, who would be held accountable the City or MoDot.

City Administrator Steve Childers stated he would research which entity would be held accountable for any violations that occur on MoDot right-of-way inside the City Limits.

Alderman Melissa Wagner asked if there was any language in the Ordinance more restrictive than what is required by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

GIS Coordinator Marcus Heilman stated the Ordinance is more restrictive. Staff felt that the City would benefit with more restrictive precautions in the Code. The enforcement process will be carried out with great caution.

City Administrator Steve Childers stated at this time no employee is dedicated to the enforcement of the MS4 Code, in the future when feasible possible hire an employee designated as an MS4 Inspector.

2010 Budget-

Proposed Revenue: Administrative, Police, Street, Water, Sewer, Capital Improvement, Officer Implementation and Solid Waste Funds.

City Administrator Steve Childers presented the 2010 Budget proposed Revenues to the Board of Aldermen.

City Administrator Steve Childers explained the citizen elected E-911 Sales Tax to be imposed beginning October 1, 2009. The revenues will be collected in 2009 but will not be distributed until January 1, 2010. Steve stated he has a meeting scheduled with the County Commission this week to discuss the Sales Tax in more detail.

General Fund Revenues-

City Administrator Steve Childers explained the Tax Levy income is figured from the figures provided to the City by the Secretary of State and the County Clerk.

Alderman Dennis Sparrow questioned why there was such a reduction in the interest income.

City Administrator Steve Childers stated interest rates are down; also big amounts will be paid out of our checking account, in particular our SRF loans.

We are paying off 203 W. Elm in February 2010.

There is no way of knowing how much to Budget for Federal Forfeiture Funds. We will purchase the DEA Officer a new vehicle in 2010.

Alderman Melissa Wagner questioned whether or not the City had any say as to where the funds allotted to Pool and Park through the Sales Tax are spent.

City Administrator Steve Childers stated Staff is researching the City’s involvement as to where the Park and Pool funds are spent.

City Administrator Steve Childers stated staff has allotted a conservative decrease in the Sales Tax income.

City Administrator Steve Childers explained due to the decrease in building we did not increase income collected from our Franchise fees.

General Fund Total Revenues- $4,626,434.75

Water and Sewer Fund Revenues-

Alderman Melissa Wagner asked how our rates compared with our water and sewer expenditures.

City Administrator Steve Childers stated staff will be evaluating our rates this year to determine if an adjustment will need to be made due to the decrease in water and sewer connection fee collections.

Alderman Mike Esterl asked if we were breaking even on our credit card transaction fees, with what the Credit Card Co. charges and the City charges the credit card users.

City Treasurer Alice Edwards stated that we are really close to breaking even, there is just a few cents the City has to fund.

Between our Reconnection fees and the Water Penalties income the City anticipates collecting $88,000.00.

Alderman Mark Spinabella stated the City needed to evaluate the availability of rental space on our water towers.

For the past two years we have allotted funds in the budget for a new Dump Truck, we hope to purchase the Dump Truck in 2010. We are discussing purchasing a used Dump Truck verses purchasing a new Dump Truck.

Water and Sewer Fund Total Revenues- $6,483,185.92

Capital Improvement Fund Revenues-

City Administrator Steve Childers stated staff allotted a conservative decrease in our Capital Improvement Sales Tax.

City Administrator Steve Childers informed the Council that the City will be paying off three (3) significant Capital Improvement Projects in February 2010, approximately $124,000.00.

Capital Improvement Fund Total Revenues- $570,000.00

Officers Implementation Fund Revenues-

City Administrator Steve Childers stated staff did not increase the amount of the Officers Implementation Funds collected from Municipal Court Fines.

Officers Implementation Fund Total Revenues- $5,000.00

Solid Waste Fund Revenues-

City Administrator Steve Childers stated staff did not increase the amount collected in our Solid Waste Fund due to the decrease in Building.

Solid Waste Fund Total Revenues- $682,000.00

This completed the 2010 Budget Revenues.

The Meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m.

Preparers Signature:

_________________________________

Lana Wilson, City Clerk

Approval Signature:

_________________________________

Fwd: Proposed 09-21-09 Agenda

2009-09-16T21:12:00.001-05:00

Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

MONDAY, September 21, 2009

7:00 P.M. COUNCIL MEETING

POSTED September 16, 2009 Ordinance #09-037

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S): August 24, 2009 and September 8, 2009

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

A. BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:

B. FIRST READING BILLS:

1. Bill #2472 –An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Ozark by Adding

One New Chapter to Title IV "Land Use", To Be Numbered Chapter 430 and Relating to the

Regulation of Illicit Discharge Into the Municipal Storm Drainage System. Alderman Rick

Gardner.

1. Bill #2473 – Approving Budget Amendments for the City of Ozark, Missouri from

September 21, 2009 thru December 31, 2009. Alderman Dennis Sparrow.

C. RESOLUTIONS:

1. Resolution #1606 – Approving an Appointment to the Historic Preservation Board – MaryAnn Campbell, N. 2^nd Ave. Alderman Mark Spinabella.

2. Resolution #1607 –A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Police Video Cameras to Digital Ally and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions for an Agreement. Alderman Rick Gardner.

3. Resolution #1608-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Approving and Adopting the Revisions to the Internal Control Policy of the City of Ozark, Missouri. Alderman Mike Esterl.

D. EMERGENCY BILLS:

E. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):

E. GRANTS:

F. AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee:

City Administrator Steve Childers:

Administrative Project Manager Cara Jones: 1. Updates on Various Projects.

2. Parks: Quarterly Report for the OC

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 1. Resolution #1605-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding

the Bid for the Purchase and Installation of Eight (8) Proximity Reader Door Locks, 100 Proximity

Reader Cards and One (1) Power Supply to _____________________ and Authorizing the Mayor

to Enter Into Discussions for an Agreement. Alderman Mark Spinabella.

SCHEDULED VISITORS: 1. Jim Steding – Storm Water Drainage Issue.

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

The tentative Agenda of this meeting will include a vote to close part of this meeting to discuss Litigation pursuant to RSMO: 610-021 (1,2,3) and such other matters as may come before the Board.

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk's Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

2009-09-08 Ozark MO Board of Alderman Meeting Video

2009-09-14T18:41:00.001-05:00

Movie Theater

2009-09-09T16:32:00.003-05:00

Howdy!

As you may already know, the board of aldermen, in a 4 - 2 vote, decided to accept the amended Gunnett developers' agreement which will enable B&B Movie Theaters to begin construction on Hwy 14 just west of Hwy 65. Although this movie theater will be a wonderful addition to our city, there were some key pieces of the agreement that I could not support. As your representative in our municipal government I feel obligated to share my reasoning and opinions with you; Especially when they deal with such an important decision.

Below you will find the statement I prepared and read at last night's board meeting before the vote:

"Since I was elected, I have heard the term, "Public dollars for public purpose" many times. I believe this principal and have tried to uphold it in the decisions that I make on this board. I do not believe that the amendments to the Gunnett developers agreement adhere to this principal and it is for that reason that I cannot support this bill.

This agreement deals with two sets of money to be reimbursed by the city coffers. One to cover the costs of infrastructure and one to cover construction costs for the theater.

I believe the reimbursement of money to pay for infrastructure is justified under this principal because infrastructure is one on the few true responsibilities of any municipal government. Once complete this infrastructure will be publicly owned and maintained, as it should be. On the other hand, it is never the responsibility of a municipal government to build or pay for private buildings for private businesses. Once paid for, in part by public dollars, it will neither be owned or operated by the public or by those accountable to the public.

Also, once the money is given as economic incentive, there is no guarantee that the money will even be used to pay for the building costs of the theater. Nothing in the developers agreement holds the project accountable for how the money is spent. Once the money is given to the project the way it is spent is neither accountable or open to the public. The city is not allowed to spend the people's money in this way and it should not give the people's money to other entities to spend in this way.

Another principle that I have heard in these chambers repeatedly is "Consistency". I also believe in this principal and have tried to uphold it in the decisions that I make on this board. I do not believe that the amendments to the Gunnett developers agreement adhere to this principal and it is for this reason also, that I cannot support this bill.

This bill will use the people's money to pick winners and losers in the private sector. A sector that we, as a government board, should be involved with as little as possible. Especially if we cannot be involved in a consistent and fair manner. If we are going to give special tax incentives to one business, we should give that same benefit to all of the businesses in our city. Which I, by the way, would be in favor of. But that is not what the agreement does. It says that we believe B&B Movie theater is of greater benefit to our city than every other small business in the city of Ozark, and I do not believe that to be true.

Until we, as a board, are willing to afford this same economic incentive to all of the businesses in our community, I cannot support such incentives.

It is for these reasons that I will not be supporting the following bill and ask this board to consider my reasoning and do the same. "

Incentive Money Information Request

2009-09-08T09:30:00.000-05:00

All,

As many of you probably know, the developer's agreement that will enable B&B movie theater to come to Ozark will be decided tonight. I have voiced some concern over $300,000 of 'economic insentive' money that will be given to the project in the form of tax cuts. This will be on top of $342,000 in tax cuts for infrastructure in the project area. I requested specific information on how the economic incentive will be used and PlazaCorp sent the following response. It appears the money will be used for building construction costs.

I am still undecided on this issue, and it will be a tough decision for me to make. Any input you have on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

From: mchilcott@plazacorp.net
To: dvcollig@msn.com
CC: DPOLK@ArmstrongTeasdale.com; cityplanner5@msn.com; jan@plazacorp.net; byore@plazacorp.net
Subject: Alderwoman Wagner Information Request
Date: Fri, 4 Sep 2009 11:10:50 -0400

Dave:
Following, please find a brief description of the proposed use for the $307,400 to be provided by way of the Incentive Agreement. The $307,400 will be utilized to fund eligible hard costs associated with the construction of the B&B building shell, which includes, but is not limited to, the following primary construction elements: exterior walls, building facade including store fronts, building structure, and roof.
I hope this satisfies Alderwoman Wagner's information needs. If you desire additional information and/or clarification, please advise.
Mark

Mark K. Chilcott
PlazaCorp Realty Advisors, Inc.
211 East Water Street, Suite 201
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007
Ph: (269) 383-5775
Fx: (269) 383-5774
Email: mchilcott@plazacorp.net

September 8, 2009 Agenda (Tuesday)

2009-09-03T21:15:00.001-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

TUESDAY September 08, 2009

7:00 P.M. COUNCIL MEETING

POSTED September 2, 2009 Ordinance #09-035

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S): August 17, 2009 and August 24, 2009 (2) Council Minutes.

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

A. BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:

B. FIRST READING BILLS:

C. RESOLUTIONS:

1. Resolution #1601 – Approving an Appointment to the LCRA Board – Ken Chapman, 1110 E. Georgia. Alderman Rick Gardner

2. Resolution #1602 – Approving Re-Appointments to the Board of Adjustments and Appeals – Elvin Elwood, 802 S. 6^th Street, Neal Grubaugh, 804 W. Dawn, Carri Sands, 5208 Turnberry Ct. , Phillip Patel, 900 N. 18^th Street. Alderman Mike Esterl

3. Resolution #1603-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Micro-Sealing Certain Streets in the Turnberry Subdivision to Donelson Construction Company, LLC. and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions for an Agreement. Alderman Chris Snyder

4. Resolution #1604-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Asphalt Overlay of S. 5^th Ave. to Leo Journagan construction Company, Inc. and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions for an Agreement. Alderman Dennis Sparrow.

5. Resolution #1605-A Resolution by the Board of aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for the Purchase and Installation of Eight (8) Proximity Reader Door Locks, 100 Proximity Reader Cards and One (1) Power Supply to __________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions for an Agreement. Alderman Mark Spinabella.

D. EMERGENCY BILLS:

1. Public Hearing-Notice of Public Hearing Town and Country Village Community Improvement District.

2. Bill #2471-An Ordinance of the City of Ozark, Missouri Creating the Town and Country Community Improvement District Within a Certain Area of the City of Ozark in Accordance with the Petition of the Property Owners Within the Proposed District. Alderman Mike Esterl

E. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):

E. GRANTS:

F. AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

1. Bill #2470-An Ordinance Authorizing the Mayor of the City of Ozark, Missouri to Enter Into an Amended Developer's Agreement with Gunnett, LLC Concerning the Town & Country Village Development.

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee: 1. Tentative 2010 Budget Meeting Schedule.

2. Public Safety:

2. Public Works:

4. Parks.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

SCHEDULED VISITORS:

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

1. Discussion on the N. 12^th St. and W. Dawn Stop Sign

2. Discussion Pertaining to Memberships to the OC.

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk's Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

08-17-2009 Ozark Board of Aldermen Meeting Video

2009-08-24T16:02:00.001-05:00

08-24-09 6:00 p.m. Agenda

2009-08-24T09:08:00.001-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

MONDAY August 24, 2009

6:00 P.M. COUNCIL MEETING

POSTED August 18, 2009 Ordinance #09-034

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

A. BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:

B. FIRST READING BILLS: Bill #2470-An Ordinance Authorizing the Mayor of the City of Ozark, Missouri to Enter Into an Amended Developer's Agreement with Gunnett, LLC Concerning the Town & Country Village Development. Alderman Mike Ester.

C. RESOLUTIONS:

D. EMERGENCY BILLS:

1. Public Hearing- Setting the 2009 Tax Levy.

1. Bill # 2469-An Ordinance of the City of Ozark, Missouri Approving the Tax Levy

for the City of Ozark, Missouri for the 2009 Tax Year. Alderman Mark Spinabella.

E. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):

F. GRANTS:

G. AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee:

2. Public Safety:

2. Public Works:

4. Parks.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

SCHEDULED VISITORS:

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk's Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

08-03-2009 Ozark MO Board of Aldermen Meeting Video

2009-08-20T20:46:00.001-05:00

FAIL:Mondays' Video Post Will Be Late

2009-08-07T16:45:00.004-05:00

Howdy!!

I hate to say it, but I will not be able to post last Monday's council meeting until next week. I am headed to NJ to visit my Grandma, but I'll get it up as soon as I get back in town.

SORRY!!

August 10, 2009 Agenda (work session)

2009-08-06T12:53:00.005-05:00

NOTE: I will not be able to attend this meeting. I will be out of state on vacation.

City of Ozark Missouri

OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE AGENDA WORK SESSION

Monday August 10, 2009

12:00 p.m.

Posted 08-06-09

CALL TO ORDER 12:00 P.M.

DISCUSSION ITEMS: 1. Staff presentation on Parking in yards, domestic storage and

communicating new regulations to commercial property

owners.

ADJOURN.

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting:

Lana Wilson

205 N. 1^st St.

(417) 581-2407

Fax (417) 581-0575

(To be posted at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting on a bulletin board or other prominent place which is easily accessible to the public and clearly designated for posting notices at the principal office of the municipal corporation or political subdivision or, if no such office exists, at the building in which the meeting is to be held.) In accordance with ADA guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending City meetings, please notify the City Clerk’s Office 417-581-2407 at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

08-17-09 Tentative Council Agenda

2009-08-05T18:04:00.002-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE MEETING AGENDA

MONDAY August 17, 2009

7:00 P.M. COUNCIL MEETING

POSTED August 12, 2009 Ordinance #09-030

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING(S): July 20, 2009 and August 03, 2009 Council Minutes.

CEREMONIAL MATTERS:

REPORT ON QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING(S):

BILLS OPEN FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION:

A. BILLS REQUIRING A PUBLIC HEARING:

B. FIRST READING BILLS:

C. RESOLUTIONS:

1. Resolution #1596-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Elevated Potable Water Storage Tank-Cleaning and Inspections for the City of Ozark’s Water Distribution System to _____________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with _____________________ for an Agreement to Conduct the Cleaning and Inspections of Said Water Storage Tanks. Alderman Dennis Sparrow.

2. Resolution #1598-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Authorizing Waiving Sewer Connection Fees for Certain Lots in the Pinecrest Subdivision. Alderman Mike Esterl.

3. Resolution #1599-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Abandoning the Well at the Quail Run Subdivision to __________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with _________________ for an Agreement to Abandon Said Well. Alderman Dennis Sparrow.

4. Resolution #1600-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for the Demolition and or Salvaging of Certain Buildings and Structures in the Redevelopment Area to ___________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with _______________ for an Agreement for the Demolition of Said Buildings. Alderman Mark Spinabella.

5. Resolution #1601-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for the Removal of the Concrete Rubble, and or Crushing of the Material from the Redevelopment Area to __________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with _________________ for an Agreement for the Removal of the Concrete Rubble. Alderman Mark Spinabella.

6. Resolution #1602-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for the Purchase and Installation of Proximity Reader Door Locks, Reader Cards and Power Supply to ________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with _________________ for an Agreement for these said Security Items. Alderman Rick Gardner.

7. Resolution #1603-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Micro Sealing Certain Named Streets in the Turnberry Subdivision to ______________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with ______________________ for an Agreement for said Micro Sealing. Alderman Dennis Sparrow.

8. Resolution #1604-A Resolution by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Awarding the Bid for Asphalt Overlay of S. 5^th Ave. from the 1300 Block to E. Waverly St. to ____________________ and Authorizing the Mayor to Enter Into Discussions with __________________ for an Agreement for said Overlay. Alderman Dennis Sparrow.

D. EMERGENCY BILLS:

E. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BILLS (TAX BILLS):

F. GRANTS:

G. AMENDED BILLS:

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE OF BILLS. NO PUBLIC DISCUSSION. BOARD DISCUSSION ONLY:

1. Bill #2461-An Amended Ordinance Approving a Modification Agreement for Loans with the Land

Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the City of Ozark, Missouri. Alderman Rick Gardner.

2. Bill# 2465 – An Ordinance by the Board of Aldermen of the City of Ozark, Missouri Authorizing the Mayor to

Execute an Amended Agreement with the City of Fremont Hills Regarding Water Connections.

Alderman Mike Esterl.

3. Bill #2466-An Ordinance of the City of Ozark, Missouri Authorizing the Issuance of a Conditional Use Permit

of all/or Part of Property in a Particular Zoning District in the City of Ozark, Missouri. Alderman Chris Snyder.

4. Bill #2468-An Ordinance of the City of Ozark, Missouri, to Reestablish Procedure to Disclose Potential

Conflicts of Interest and Substantial Interests for Certain Officials. Alderman Rick Gardner.

REPORT OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES:

1. Administrative Committee:

2. Public Safety:

3. Public Works:

4. Parks.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

SCHEDULED VISITORS: 1. Pat Pettersen-Mitchell, Roy & Wilson, CPA’s- Discuss 2008 Financial Audit.

NEW BUSINESS/COUNCIL COMMENTS:

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:

ADJOURNMENT

Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting: The City Clerk’s Office at (417) 581-2407 or by E-Mail lwilson@ozarkmissouri.org

(To be posted at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of the Meeting on a bulletin board or other prominent place which is easily accessible to the public and clearly designated for posting notices at the principal office of the Municipal Corporation or Political Subdivision or, if no such office exists, at the building in which the meeting is to be held). In accordance with ADA Guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending City Meetings, please notify the City Clerk’s Office at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

07-23-2009 Joint Council / Park Board Meeting

2009-07-29T21:38:00.003-05:00

New Look!

2009-07-28T13:23:00.003-05:00

Don't be alarmed, the Ozark Missouri Observer blog has a new look. I liked the old blog template, but my embedded meeting videos didn't fit right. This new layout holds the videos better.

07-20-2009 Ozark Board of Aldermen Video

2009-07-27T15:54:00.001-05:00

Agenda: Christian County E-911 Board

2009-07-24T10:01:00.000-05:00

AGENDA
Christian County Emergency Services
Regular Board Meeting
Old Courthouse – 2nd Floor Courtroom
Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
1:30 PM

Preliminaries to the Meeting
1. Call to order
2. Roll call
3. Establishment of a quorum

Approval of the meeting’s Agenda

Public Comments

Approval of Minutes

Unfinished Business
Agreement w/ two existing boards
Funding/Organizational Committee
West Fire/Law Repeater
By-laws
Contract for services (Christian County and Nixa)
Federal 911 Grant

New Business
1. Government Capital Corporation – 911 Facilities Fund

Executive Session
Closed Session pursuant to Missouri Sunshine Law, ss 610.021 (subsection 3) personnel issues

Next Meeting Date

Adjournment

The tentative agenda for this meeting will include a vote to close part of this meeting pursuant to the Missouri Sunshine Law,
SS 610-021.
The news media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting:
Rance Duffy
301 S Nicholas Rd
Nixa, MO 65714
417-725-4025

Reminder: Community Breakfast Tomorrow

2009-07-24T09:01:00.003-05:00

Howdy!

Don't forget, tomorrow I will be hosting our monthly community breakfast at the Village Inn from 8 - 10 am. We have a lot to discus. Here is a tentative agenda:

1.What should the proper relationship between the city and the parks board be? a. staffing issues. b. budgetary issues.

2. Johnny on the spot dumping privileges.

3. Pinecrest sub division connection fees.

4. Subdivision bonds.

Your task:
Bring to the meeting one of two things:
1. An idea for some good legislation you'd like to see in front of the board.
2. A fellow citizen.

Agenda: Special Meeting with the Parks Board at the OC

2009-07-22T13:43:00.005-05:00

BOARD OF ALDERMEN TENTATIVE SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
This Meeting will be held at the New Ozark Community Center
Thursday July 23, 2009 7:00 p.m.

Posted 07-21-09

CALL TO ORDER 7:00 P.M.
MAYOR’S COMMENTS
NEW BUSINESS:

Discuss the Specific Duties and Authorities of Each Board.
Two Roles of Park Board:a.)One Role as an Advisory Board to the Ozark Board of Aldermen.b.)Second Role as an Administrative Board as it Relates to Those Specific Revenues Generated and Managed by the Dedicated Property Tax.
Clarification Between Both Boards of the Understanding that the Park Director, Hired by the City, Paid by the City, and an Employee of the City, Reports Directly to the City Administrator and City Council, While Serving in a Supportive role to the Park Board in Assisting them in their Efforts to Implement the Goals and Objectives of their Long Range Plan.
Clarification that all Facilities, and Those Rules and Regulations that Govern Said Facilities, Shall be Established through a Joint Effort between Both Boards.
Discussion of the 651 Fund Balance Carry Over, Further Discussion of the Potential of Using Said Carry-Over to Cover any Potential Shortfalls Related to the FEMA Building.

COUNCIL COMMENTS:

ADJOURN.

The tentative agenda of this meeting may include a vote to close part of this meeting to discuss Litigation-Personnel-Real Estate pursuant to RSMo: 610-021 (1,2,3) and such other matters as may come before the Board.Representatives of the News Media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting:Lana Wilson205 N. 1st St.(417) 581-2407Fax (417) 581-0575(To be posted at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting on a bulletin board or other prominent place which is easily accessible to the public and clearly designated for posting notices at the principal office of the municipal corporation or political subdivision or, if no such office exists, at the building in which the meeting is to be held.) In accordance with ADA guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending City meetings, please notify the City Clerk’s Office 417-581-2407 at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

Your Input: Fireworks inside Ozark City Limits

2009-07-16T20:53:00.004-05:00

Howdy!

This year was the first year in ??? years that the City of Ozark has permitted the setting off of fireworks within its city limits. How do you think it went?

When the change to allow fireworks came before the board, I was excited that they were going to change the code to allow it. As you may have noticed, I like freedom and less government, even when it comes to something as trivial as fireworks. However, I have received some complaints, and I would like your opinion on the topic.

My question to you: Do you think Ozark should continue to allow the shooting of fireworks in city limits? What is the appropriate course of action against those who cause unreasonable litter or damage to their neighbors' property while legally shooting fireworks?

Downtown Redev: Due Diligence or Malfeasance?

2009-07-15T12:29:00.012-05:00

I read some statements in today's CC Headliner article, "Redevelopment project may be in jeopardy. LCRA board members resign because of lack of progress". that I feel require a response. Everyone is entitled to their opinions, but it seems to me that if you are going to make assumptions about the motives of the members of Board of Aldermen, you should at least have the intellectual integrity to ask them what their motivations are. I, for one, did not receive a phone call from either John Custer or Eric Griessel.

I cannot speak to you today about the specific details of the current status of the project, as I have not yet been briefed, but I can speak to you about my feelings towards the last developers agreement, delays in the project since I was elected, and what the Board of Aldermen and city staff are doing to protect your tax dollars.

1. What was wrong with PlazaCorp's first proposed developer's agreement?

There were two major problems with the first agreement PlazaCorp presented to the board.

The first problem was in the tax incentive structure. To summarize, the project is located in a TIF district. This allows the project area to 'capture' 100% of the property tax and 50% of the sales tax generated in the project area and use that revenue for approved purposes (infrastructure, roads, etc.). PlazaCorp wanted the TIF incentives PLUS the remaining 50% of the sales tax generated in the project area. Thus, collecting 100% of the property taxes and 100% of the sales tax in the project area.
THE PROBLEM: Three years ago the people of Ozark overwhelming voted in favor of collecting a sales tax to pay for our new OC. I did not feel that it was ethical to take a dedicated tax that you voted for and use it for a project other than the OC. If the proposed agreement would have passed, that is exactly what would have happened.

The second problem, and perhaps the biggest, was that PlazaCorp's agreement would make the city financially responsible for projects' debt in the event that there was a shortfall. In essence, the city would have to co-sign the debt. As long as the development kept its retail space filled and met its projected revenue this would not be an issue. The development would pay for its self. PlazaCorp seemed confident in its numbers, but if they were so confident in the success of the project, why would they need the city to promise to cover the shortfall? If the project did not meet its projected revenues and the city promised to make up any shortfall, the city could have been on the hook for more that $800,000/year. That is more than 16% of this year's general revenue budget. Plus the near $300,000 in dept service per year we would still owe on the rest of the downtown properties not being developed by PlazaCorp.

THE PROBLEM: Although this is the worst case scenario, even if it were only half that bad, the city could not fulfill its commitment without devastating the necessary services you and I depend on the city to provide.

2. Why was the approval of the developer's agreement delayed?

There was no discussion of this proposal in a Board of Alderman's meeting because the resolution to adopt this proposal was removed from the agenda by it's sponsor, Mike Esteral.

Later, in a special Board of Alderman's meeting, our outside consultants gave a presentation to the board on the feasibility of the project. You can watch the video here:
http://ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com/2009/05/2009-05-26-special-board-of-aldermen.html
As a result of this meeting, the Mayor, with the board's support, directed staff explore all options in order to better protect the interests of the taxpayer.

At the end of the day, your Board of Aldermen are responsible for the financial health of our great city. The LCRA board is not. Because they are afforded this luxury it is easier for them to say they "...[don't] want the city to be too cautious." They do not answer to you, and they are not appointed to be stewards of your tax dollars. It is much easier to be risky with that which you are not responsible.
Also, the LCRA is only tasked with focusing on the downtown redevelopment project. They don't have to be concerned with the impact it will have on the rest of the budget and functions of the city. I, as an Aldermen, must take the 'big picture' into account. PlazaCorp's initial proposal did not fit very well in that 'big picture'.

The success of this project is important to me and I know that it is important to every member of our board and all of our staff. Success does not just mean getting some buildings up and moving in some tenants. Success does not mean putting almost 1/5 of our general revenue budget at risk. Success means giving you a downtown project that we can afford and that is not going to put necessary municipal functions and services at risk.

In closing, some may not like what I have to say, and others may disagree with my reasoning, but I can assure you that my motivations lie only with the best interest of the citizens I represent and the protection of their tax dollars. It is unfair and unfounded to assume that I or anyone else has made any decision regarding this downtown project in hopes that it would fail. The failure of this project would be a failure for the City of Ozark and I can assure that whatever our differences, we are all striving for the betterment of our community.

If you are interested in helping the downtown project become a success there are now 3 open positions on the LCRA board. I would encourage each of you to put in an application to volunteer for the board.

CLARIFICATION: I mentioned above that the TIF would capture 100% of the property tax. To clarify, it would be 100% of the property tax above what the city is currently collecting. For example, if the city was collecting $100 right now, than the city would continue to collect that $100. The project area would only capture anything above that $100. Let me know if you have any questions.

07-06-2009 Board of Aldermen Video

2009-07-14T20:23:00.002-05:00

NOTE: For whatever reason, my camera will only record 2 hrs and 32 min at one time. I am not sure how to remedy this since I am not the other side of the room from the camara. I will try to find someone to turn the recording on and off so it records in segments and I can get the whole video next time.

07-06-2009 Board Of Aldermen Meeting Recap

2009-07-09T23:15:00.001-05:00

Howdy!

This week's meeting was a big one. It was a full house, and the longest meeting yet. Here is a recap of some of the high points:

Winners of the 1st Annual Mayor's Photo/Art Contest were recognize. Congratulations to the winners, all the art work was beautiful.

Recognition of Chuck Branch. Chuck and his wife will be leaving Ozark for Tulsa soon, and we took a moment to recognize the huge contribution he has made to our city. You can read more about Chuck's impact on our city here: http://www.ccheadliner.com/articles/2009/07/08/news/doc4a537de57f15a353933464.txt I would like to thank him and wish him luck.

1st Reading: Bill that will allow the LCRA board to refi a certain portion of the loans they possess on downtown properties. This refi will allow the city to make interest only payments for one year. I believe the refi was initiated over a year ago and is just now coming before the board to be finalized. Refis are tricky, especially when involving tax payer dollars. It will mean that the taxpayers will pay less now, which may be of benefit in this tight economy, but it also means that the taxpayers will pay a larger amount over the life of the loan. Steve said he would provide the exact numbers at the next meeting before the 2nd reading and passage/failure of the bill.

New appointments to the P&Z: Kenneth Washam, Charlie Powell, and Darrell McGuire. Congratulations!

New appointments to the Parks Board: Shea Lane, Josh Tinker, and Eric Griessel. Congratulations!

Steve gave us an update on the goings on of the Old Community Building. Ozark has received a Brownstone grant which is allowing DNR to come down and evaluate the state of building. They will analyze contaminants in the building (asbestos, dung, mold, etc.) and let us know what needs to be done to remove them. All this, free of charge to the city. Steve has also opened up bidding for an appraiser to find out just what the building is worth. Although there are not yet definite plans for the building, these steps will help us evaluate the state of the building and what it is actually worth so we can move forward.
The police department was also awarded a grant for security purposes. This grant will pay for a large walk through metal detector for the municipal building, hand held metal detection wands, and equipment for security card access to the municipal buildings. I am really excited about this.

BILLS 2ND READ AND PASSED:

Bill 2459 was passed. It revised some typos in Title 4 (the land use section) of the municipal code.
Before passage of the budget amendments, Parks Director, Mrs. Matthews went over the parks department 651 Budget. You can read the high points of that here: http://tinyurl.com/mfzuxc . Mrs. Matthews stated that the budget was doing better than they anticipated considering the May opening. The only possible problem comes in a $200,000 overage for the FEMA building of which you can read about in the above article.
Bill 2460 was passed. This bill addressed a number of budget amendment. Most of the general revenue amendments were revisions due to unforeseen changes in revenue and under budgeted items. General revenue expenditures increased by 5.79% and revenues increased by 3.1%. The amendments will require us to allocate $137,697.85 from last year's carryover leaving a balance of $285,560.46. Because of the possible $200,000 shortfall in the Parks Budget, I asked for an amendment that would allocate $200,000 from the carryover balance to set aside in case the Parks Department could not come up with the funds by their December deadline. I feel it is prudent for the city plan for such a large expense while we still have the money to do so. It is very possible that the Parks will be able to make up the difference, and that would be great, but we should still be prepared in the mean time. Finding $200,000 at the end of the fiscal year could prove difficult if we have not taken the necessary precautions. After much discussion my amendment to the budget did not make it into the bill, and the original budget amendment bill passed 4 - 2. I will be bringing the amendment back to the board at the next meeting in it's own bill. Dennis voted no on the bill due to an increase in leased vehicles for the parks department. I voted no because I did not want to see a budget increase without setting aside the funds to cover the FEMA building.

SIGNING THE INVOICES:

I discussed my thoughts on signing the invoices at each meeting. For those of you who don't know, each alderman has been tasked with signing the invoiced for a particular department at each meeting. My department is the Public Works department. At each meeting I get a stack of about 100 invoices. It is nearly impossible for me to read each invoice and sign it if I get to the meeting an hour early. Not to mention, since that is the earliest I can get the invoices, there is no way for me to verify the true validity of those invoices, and thus I have been very concerned about putting my signature on them.

In my search to find a remedy to this, I found that there is no statutory or municipal code requirement that the board should sign the invoices. In fact, according to our code, the city Administrator is the sole purchasing agent for the city. We, the board, approve the budget, and Steve deals with the day to day expenditures. At least that's how it is officially designed. As long as the expenditures are within the approved budget and under $5000 the specific expenditures are not required to be approved by the board.

Although I would not be opposed to never signing another invoice again, many on the board feel like it provides them an extra level of oversight, which I can understand. Since that seemed to be the consensus, I suggested that someone should sponsor a bill to revise the municipal code. If the board is going to be given a responsibility, that responsibility or rule should be clearly defined and in the code book, especially when dealing with our signatures. I believe someone will be presenting a bill for this at the next meeting.

SPONSORSHIP OF BILLS

I also discussed the sponsorship of bills by members of the board. Currently, board members are arbitrarily assigned to bills and resolutions as sponsors. A sponsor is defined as "a person who vouches or is responsible for a person or thing." It is difficult to be responsible for a bill that is arbitrarily assigned to me, that I see for the first time on the Friday before the meeting. Because of this, I have requested not be assigned as a sponsor to any bill or resolution that I did not write, ask for, or was previously asked to sponsor.

As we discussed the topic, David proposed a process that would alleviate the issue. Since the each board member is assigned a department, if that department needed a bill of some kind, that department head would need to contact their respective board member and ask for their sponsorship of said bill. If the member will not agree to sponsor the bill, the bill would then go to the Mayor Protem in hopes that he could locate a sponsor for the bill or, if he desired, he could sponsor the bill himself.

Having the bills arbitrarily assigned is not breaking any rules or regulations and has been done in the past, I believe, out of necessity. To make the board function as a true legislature and follow a process like the one David suggested requires an engaged board who is willing to get 'knee deep' in the goings on of the city. The discussion went very well, and I think now, with the current board, we are in a perfect position to make these types of positive changes happen.

OC MEMBERSHIPS

At the Mayor's request, the board gave an approving nod to change the OC's definition of a Family membership to a Household membership. This will allow 2 adults dwelling in the same home and 3 children to get the $425 membership. Current the adults have to be married.

I will get the video up this weekend, and the community breakfast will be July 25th this month.

7-6-2009 Ozark Board of Aldermen Meeting Agenda

2009-07-06T10:38:00.002-05:00

Howdy!

You can find tonight's agenda here:
http://www.ozarkmissouri.com/ccagenda.cfm

You can find the packet here:
http://www.ozarkmissouri.com/resource/Council%20Packet%2007-06-09.pdf

Your Input: Future of Ozark's Historic Community Building

2009-06-26T15:56:00.003-05:00

Howdy!

The NewsLeader did a piece on Ozark's Historic Community Building today.

What are your thoughts on the Historic Community Building? A lot of groups are interested in it. Some want to protect the historical architecture, to others it holds sentimental value, and some would like to see it torn down and replaced with a modern building that could take advantage of it's prime location. It is an intersting topic, and I can honestly say I don't yet have an opinion on it yet.

My question to you: What do you think should happen to the Historic Community Building and why?

REMINDER: Community Breakfast is tomorrow morning at the Village Inn from 8 to 10. If you have any ideas for good legislation, bring them with you tomorrow. I would love to hear them.

NOTICE: Special June 29th Aldermen and Park Board Meeting Canceled

2009-06-25T21:50:00.002-05:00

The meeting between the Ozark Board of Aldermen and the Ozark Parks Board that was scheduled for June 29th has been canceled. As I mentioned earlier, there are 3 positions on the park board that are going to be filled at the July 6th Board of Aldermen meeting. I believe it was determined that having this joint meeting would be more effective after the 3 positions were filled.

06-16-2009 Board of Aldermen Video

2009-06-19T20:07:00.003-05:00

NOTE: For whatever reason, my camera stopped recording at 2 hrs and 32 min. We have not had a meeting run this long since I began recording the meetings so I didn't expect this to occur. The video stops right after we begin discussions on the salvaged Crown Vics and is missing about the last 30 minutes. Missing from the video are discussions about the salvaged Crown Vics and the Main Street Application discussion.

Ozark Board of Alderman Meeting June 15th Agenda

2009-06-14T22:10:00.003-05:00

Howdy!

Go here to see tomorrow's agenda and here to see tomorrow's packet.

Points of interest for tomorrow's meeting:

1. Public hearing for the amending some planning and zoning rules - Bill 2459. Check out the packet to read the bill. If you want to better understand the changes in this bill, you can compare the bill to the existing code which can be found online here. When the page opens click on the folder labeled "Ozark" on the left hand side of the page. Then click "TITLE IV. LAND USE". Then "CHAPTER 405: ZONING REGULATIONS". Then you can compare the current sections 405.770, 405.785, and 410.226 to the changes to those sections lined out in the bill.
If you have questions about these changes, tomorrow is the time to bring them up.

2. Budget Amendments. This will be the first reading of the budget amendment bill and the only chance you will have to speak on this if you so choose. I would suggest you read the ammended budget that is provided in the packet and come to the meeting with any questions or suggestions you have.

3. 3 bills 2456, 2457, and 2458 aproving the use of stimulus funds for 3 projects. These bills will come to a vote tomorrow.

City Board Openings

2009-06-10T22:42:00.001-05:00

The Mayor has started accepting applications for upcoming openings on the Parks Board and Planning and Zoning Commission. I was thrilled to read this in the paper today. Until now, no applications were required when seeking positions on city related boards. I think this is a great step for Ozark.

If you are interested in a position on the Park Board or the Planning and Zoning Commission you can fill out this application and turn it in or mail it to city hall. If these are areas that interest you and are areas in which you feel you could have a positive influence I would strongly encourage you to put in an application. I don't know what the due date for applications is, so I would get them in as soon as possible.

Tonight's Special City Council Meeting Has Been Canceled

2009-06-08T13:05:00.001-05:00

Tonight's city council meeting dealing with the agreement between PlazaCorp and the city on the downtown redevelopment has been canceled. I beleive both parties would like more time for negotiations.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

City's Response to the State Audit

2009-06-04T23:55:00.001-05:00

Since the release of State Audit in Ozark, many citizens have voiced concerns about the city's blasé response.

Steve Childers wrote an article in this weeks CC Headliner and I want to give him some credit. This article seems to have a different tone that other statements we have seen come out of city hall, especially regarding the audit.

He speaks in an honest and sincere way about the mistakes Ozark has made in the past. He is also specific about changes that have have been made to address many of the issues.

I knew from the beginning that Steve and the staff were taking this audit seriously and working hard to make a lot of wrongs right. I think this message, unlike some previous ones, accurately depicts the city's attitude towards the audit and dedication to correcting the problems.

Learning from audit, preparing for future
By: Steve Childers, Ozark city administrator
Published:
Wednesday, June 3, 2009 12:05 AM CDT
I would like to take the opportunity to respond to the public regarding the recent audit report of the city of Ozark. Even though much of the criticism leveled acknowledges occurrences prior to my position as city administrator, now it is up to me to explain.

Adequate documentation may not exist that will thoroughly explain to me, or allow me to explain to all of you, the reasons why past decisions were made, certain actions were or were not taken, or why proper accountability procedures were not previously in place; and although I don’t plan on making excuses for the past, I do feel strongly that rather than dwelling on it we should use it to our advantage as a road map to implementing proper processes and procedures that avoid new shortcomings in the future.

It’s important for the citizenry of Ozark to know that even before the state auditors arrived, myself and staff had already identified many of the shortfalls and were in the process of implementing new procedures to correct them. For example, a capital asset management policy was put in place May 2008; an internal control policy for cash handling was put in place January 2009; and the first comprehensive employee manual including credit card, e-mail, vehicle usage, and many other policies mentioned in the audit will be in place within the next 30-60 days.

The Board of Aldermen and Ozark Park Board will quickly begin scheduling meetings to work on park and recreation related matters, and staff is diligently working on advancing the progress of the Finley River District redevelopment project.

Neither Mayor Jackson nor I intend to downplay the seriousness of the audit findings; rather we would like to bring into perspective that, “That was then and this is now.”

Therefore, the approach we will be taking is to gain knowledge from the past so to achieve the highest level of professionalism regarding record management, accounting practices, improved public access to information via Internet and all other fiduciary related responsibilities.

I am confident in saying you have a dedicated mayor, board of aldermen and staff that are committed to progressively and responsibly advancing our community. I am also confident in letting you know that I will never give less than an all-out effort to approach my responsibilities as your city administrator with integrity, honesty and a unbridled belief in building a sustainable and strong community for everyone.

If you ever have a question or concern, don’t hesitate to call the Ozark City Hall at (417) 581-2407 and ask to speak to me personally.

Steven Childers is the Ozark City Administrator.

June 4, 2009 CID Meeting 6:00 p.m. Agenda

2009-06-03T20:57:00.001-05:00

CID TENTATIVE AGENDA

June 04, 2009

Notice is hereby given that the Ozark Downtown Community Improvement District (CID) Board of Directors will conduct a Meeting at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, June 04, 2009 at the Ozark City Hall in Ozark, Missouri.

CALL TO ORDER:

ROLL CALL:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: May 14, 2009

VISITORS:

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

NEW BUSINESS: 1. Resolution #09-002-Approving Certain

Actions Regarding the Finley River

Development Plan. Board Member Mike

Esterl.

REPORTS:

BILLS AND COMMUNICATIONS:

ADJOURNMENT:

The tentative agenda of this meeting may include a vote to close part of this meeting to discuss Litigation, Personnel, and Real Estate pursuant to RSMo: 610.021 (1,2,3) and such other matters as may come before the Board.

Representatives of the news media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting:

Lana Wilson

205 N. 1^st St.

(417) 581-2407

In accordance with ADA guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending these meetings, please notify the City Clerk's Office 417-581-2407 at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Agenda for tomorrows LCRA board meeting.

2009-06-03T20:55:00.001-05:00

City of Ozark Missouri

OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK

P.O. Box 295		Fax	417-581-0575
Ozark, Missouri	65721	Phone	417-581-2407

LCRA TENTATIVE AGENDA

June 04, 2009

Notice is hereby given that the LCRA Commission will conduct a Meeting at

5:30 p.m., Thursday, June 04, 2009.

at the Ozark City Hall in Ozark, Missouri.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: May 14, 2009

VISITORS:

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS: 1. Resolution #09-003- Approving Certain Actions Regarding the

Finley River Development Plan. Commissioner John Custer.

STAFF REPORTS:

BILLS AND COMMUNICATIONS:

ADJOURNMENT.

The tentative agenda of this meeting may include a vote to close part of this meeting to discuss Litigation, Personnel and Real Estate pursuant to RSMo: 610.021 (1, 2, 3) and such other matters as may come before the Board.

Representatives of the news media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting:

Lana Wilson

205 N. 1^st St.

(417) 581-2407

Fax (417) 581-0575

In accordance with ADA guidelines, if you need special accommodations when attending City meetings, please notify the City Clerk's Office 417-581-2407 at least 3 days prior to the scheduled meeting.

--
Thanks and Have a Great Day!!

Melissa Wagner
417.231.1045
www.ozarkmissouri.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/melissadwagner

Your Input: Springfield College Station vs. Ozark Downtown Redevelopment

2009-06-02T21:16:00.006-05:00

Before the start of Monday's city council meeting an article regarding the development of Springfield's Collage Station was brought to my attention.

During an update from Darrel Groves, one of the city's consultants on the downtown redevelopment, Dennis Sparrow asked Darrell if there was anything we could learn from Springfield's experience. Darrell said that they were getting copies of the College Station agreement to look over and compare it to our project here in Ozark.

I just read the article, and I have to say, there are striking similarities between the two projects and it concerns me. It seems the plans of action for both projects say: movie theater + a downtown feel = economic revitalization. Unfortunately, this equation is not working out for the city of Springfield.

I am anxious to see what results will be produced from negotiations currently taking place between the city, city consultants and PlazaCorp. I hope all parties can come to an agreement that protects our tax dollars from undue risk. These results will be presented and voted on by the council next Monday at 5:30.

My question to you: Are there similarities between the two projects that cause you concern? Do you see characteristics of our project in Ozark that you feel would make it more successful than the Collage Station project?

A big FAIL for Melissa Wagner: No Video this Week

2009-06-01T21:38:00.002-05:00

Howdy...

I have to admit that I made a big mistake at tonight's meeting. I forgot to turn my video camera on. In a rush to go over bills and talk to citizens and make a potty break I forgot to turn it on. I am terribly sorry about this and will try very hard to avoid this in the future. Please forgive my absent mindedness.

Reminder: Special Council meeting on Monday the 8th at 5:30. This is going to be a big meeting to discus and make a decision regarding PlazaCorp's offer and any counter offers.