City of Memphis Board of Aldermen Awards Farm Bid, Matches VFW Cemetery Donation in Busy May 1 Session
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MEMPHIS, Mo. — May 1, 2025 — The Memphis Board of Aldermen convened a regularly scheduled meeting Thursday evening at City Hall, where members took action on a range of civic matters, from infrastructure and public park updates to the sale of city property and community donations.
Mayor David Michael Ahland called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. at 125 W. Jefferson St., with Aldermen Mike Gundy, Lane Campbell, Katie Harris, Jenny Aldridge, and Mike Stone present. City staff and department heads, including City Administrator Stacy Alexander and Clerk Jessica Newcomer, also attended.
Community Engagement and Public Hearing
The session opened with a public hearing where local resident Chris Feeney addressed the board regarding the grant process for the removal of the Shoop building on the square. Though no formal vote was taken during the hearing, it marked a step forward in the city’s efforts to address deteriorating structures.
Citizen participation included remarks from Jody Small, who shared concerns over an ordinance violation notice he received. Small expressed frustration with the communication and enforcement process, urging the council to review its procedures.
In a separate presentation, Alderman Jenny Aldridge submitted a check from the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). The group had raised more than $1,000 for new flags and poles at the city cemetery and requested a matching contribution from the city. The board unanimously approved the match, signaling support for community-led efforts to honor local veterans.
Bids and Appointments
A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to opening and reviewing five bids for the Johnston Farm property. Submissions were received from 2 Sons Farm, Michael Martin, Jerad and Justin Fuller, Mallett Family Farm LLC, and Christopher McNamer. The board voted unanimously to accept McNamer’s high bid of $26,661.60.
Mayor Ahland also presented his list of department and committee appointments. The most notable among them was the appointment of Alderman Mike Gundy as President of the Board of Aldermen. The slate of appointments was approved unanimously.
Department and Council Reports
Department heads provided comprehensive updates:
Electric Department: Director Jordan Fulk reported the installation of new service connections, the replacement of a rotten utility pole on W. Madison St., and tree trimming near power lines. His team also installed security cameras at the Johnson Park concession stand.
Water and Sewer Department: Director Randall Aldridge described multiple infrastructure improvements, including replacement of a water main valve, installation of two isolation valves, and commencement of the 2025 lead and copper inventory. His team also cleaned a pump pit at Old Lake and removed outdated electrical components.
Parks and Pool Department: Director Cecily Williams detailed ongoing preparations for the summer sports season and pool opening on May 24. Maintenance included field work and staff coordination. She noted T-ball practices and games were already underway and praised George Meir for his landscaping efforts.
City Administrator Stacy Alexander reported on recent meetings, including discussions with the local historical group concerning plans for a new building. Council members also shared updates:
Alderman Gundy received a request from a resident to power-wash and repaint cemetery gates.
Alderman Harris noted multiple citizen reports about potholes on the square and conveyed continued praise for the playground upgrades at Johnson Park and the work of Cecily Williams.
Alderman Stone suggested exploring the feasibility of a community dog park, highlighting its potential benefits.
Alderman Campbell and Mayor Ahland had no new updates.
Financial Matters and Closure
The board approved payment of the city’s monthly bills without dissent.
Following regular business, the board moved into closed session at 8:12 p.m. under Missouri Revised Statutes 610.021, citing legal, personnel, and real estate matters. The session lasted until 9:30 p.m., after which the board formally adjourned.
The evening’s decisions demonstrated continued commitment to civic improvement, infrastructure, and honoring community contributions.
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