Menu
Sheldon Board of Aldermen discuss lagoon issues
The Sheldon Board of Aldermen meeting commenced on Thursday evening, June 8, with Mayor Becky Morgan leading the proceedings. The council wasted no time and promptly invited two guest speakers, Representatives Doug McKinney and Blake Holland from Advanced Microbial Solutions (AMS), to address the floor. The focus of their discussion centered around the lagoon issues, specifically highlighting the presence of harmful bacteria and the failure to meet the required codes stipulated by law.
AMS, a patented company specializing in the daily injection of billions of microbes into lagoon systems, guaranteed their process's effectiveness. They emphasized their successful track record and stressed that their system provided an economical solution for municipalities looking to extend the lifespan of aging lagoon systems. According to their claims, their method could eliminate or reduce sludge levels by an impressive 60-70%. McKinney asserted, "We have achieved resounding success with our product in a variety of systems, from small-scale setups to sprawling acres." He advised the council that if they wished to engage AMS's services, they would need to apply for a Missouri state permit to authorize their involvement. McKinney further explained that the process would take approximately three months to complete, with an estimated cost of $278,000. He offered his assistance in guiding the council through the process of applying for grants.
The council expressed gratitude for the speakers' time and indicated that they would follow up with them in due course. Subsequently, the meeting resumed with its regular agenda, as there were no concerns raised by the citizens.
Later in the meeting, the floor was handed over to Phyllis Sprenkle, a representative of the Community Betterment Committee. Sprenkle informed the council that the committee was compiling a comprehensive list of local businesses, which would be shared with the guests of the new Bed and Breakfast establishment, known as the Dueling Silos. The intention was to familiarize the visitors with the diverse range of businesses available in the city. Sprenkle also provided an update on the restoration project for the Old School Building. She revealed that the project required the creation and installation of 48 special windows, along with complete replacement of the guttering, at an estimated cost of $35,000. Currently, $6,000 had been donated towards this expense, and efforts were underway to secure additional contributions. Sprenkle mentioned that they had submitted an application to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to assess the building's structural integrity. To raise funds for the project, the committee was selling commemorative mugs and had applied for additional grants. Furthermore, Sprenkle announced that the next Community Betterment Committee meeting was scheduled for June 26. Lastly, she sought the council's permission for the Sprenkle family to place a memorial bench alongside the Memorial Wall during the Sheldon Old Settlers Picnic, which would take place from August 17 to 19. The council granted permission, with the condition that the bench be positioned outside the Memorial Wall rather than inside.
No reports were presented by the fire department, and there were no discussions regarding old business. However, the council, along with City Maintenance Worker Russ Strickland, deliberated on two bids received for tree removal. After careful consideration, they unanimously approved and accepted Joseph Carter's bid, which included the removal of four dead trees, their stumps, and an additional tree that had been causing inconvenience for an extended period. The council also addressed the issue of non-compliant water, which failed to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards due to the presence of E. coli and Pneumonia. The resolution involved an expenditure of $15,000 to rectify the situation. Alderman Robert Moran pledged to investigate available options and potential financial grants for this purpose. The board approved Moran's proposal.
The meeting concluded with the board's decision to adjourn, scheduling the next gathering for July 13.