DOWNING, Mo. — The Downing Board of Aldermen approved a series of motions at its regular meeting on April 7, including a significant increase in the city’s water and sewer connection fee, the awarding of local maintenance contracts and plans to pursue a demolition grant.
Mayor Alan Garrett called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. All aldermen — Ray Bange, Joy VanWye, Daniel Beeler and Allen Middleton — were present, along with City Clerk Carol Dryden and water department staff.
A key decision made during the meeting was the unanimous approval of a motion to raise the water and sewer connection fee from $300 to $1,500. The increase is intended to better align the fee with current infrastructure costs. A new ordinance will be drafted to reflect the change.
In addition, the board accepted bids for essential city services. Matt Brewer was awarded the rock hauling contract, while Court Aeschliman received the cemetery mowing contract. The board expressed gratitude for all submitted bids.
In other business, the city approved the purchase of a new computer for water operator Tad Anderson and accepted a proposal from the Northeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission to write a grant for the city’s demolition program.
Kyle, a representative from NEMR, addressed the board about utility hookups for a new building on city property.
The water department reported a favorable water loss rate of about 5 percent, the replacement of a meter, and preparation for a new installation on Route N. Lagoon operations remain shut down, with satisfactory sampling results.
Roadwork preparation also began, and the city continues to search for a box blade for street maintenance.
The board adjourned at 7:30 p.m. A note of appreciation was extended to Alderman VanWye, who is stepping down from her role.
“She has been a real asset to our board,” the minutes stated.
