Homer May
County Reporter
In new business Monday eve, Warsaw's Board of Aldermen approved a 2023 general revenue tax which mirrors its 2022 tax. Of course, it's likely that new construction in the city over the last year will promote some increase in revenues, and City Planner Randy Pogue has in recent meetings of this group commented that the city continues to experience growth in businesses relocating to or expanding in the city, sometimes caused by increased business here.
The meeting opened at 6:00 PM on August 21, with Aldermen Eric Flores, Lou Breshears, Doug Hedrick Adam Howe present. Aldermen Rob Coskey and Reba Slavens were absent. Mayor Eddie Simons presided; City Clerk Jessica Kendall recorded.
First actions by the group were to approve the eve's agenda and minutes of its August 7 meeting, then agree to pay bills presented.
In early session, Benton County Economic Development Director Jo Ann Lane discussed the September 20-21 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities annual conference to be held in Benton County. She said the county's City Clerks and Mayors will be attending and invited board members from Cole Camp, Lincoln and Warsaw to also attend. She added that all board members interested in helping their communities prosper should attend, and said it will be hosted by @MizzouExtensionCEC, which has designed the event for professionals in economic and business development, education, local government and non-profits seeking to learn how to build entrepreneurial ecosystems that make efficient use of limited resources. During the conference, attendees will hear insights from many different presenters. There will also be opportunities to experience the entrepreneurial community in action, with breakout sessions embedded in businesses across Benton County. She asked that the city allow use of golf carts for related transportation and that two coffee trailers be present during the event. Her requests were approved by the group.
Aldermen also approved two resolutions: (1) one presented by Police Chief Sean McCannon, authorizing receipt of a grant for Warsaw PD to receive a 100% grant application for two department radars and (2) authorizing city participation in the Whiteman AFB Leadership Council. The city will send a confirming letter to that AFB for next year.
There was no old business or other items for discussion, so the group went into executive session about 6: 15 PM. The open sessions are usually held on 1st and 3rd Thursday eves. Visitors are welcome.
