DOWNING, Mo. — The Downing Board of Aldermen met in regular session at 6 p.m. Aug. 4 with Mayor Alan Garrett presiding. Aldermen Ray Bange, Bob Garrett, Daniel Beeler and Allen Middleton were present, along with Water/Wastewater Operator Tad Anderson, Contract Operator Eric Bowens and City Clerk Carol Dryden.
Board members received copies of the agenda, minutes of the previous meeting, deposits and disbursements, the monthly water report, account balances and tax information.
The board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes and payment of bills.
Utility and Infrastructure Updates
Water loss readings were reported as running in the negative, which was noted as likely a system error. City Clerk Carol Dryden will contact RVS to address the issue.
A lift pump at the cemetery had temporarily failed but was fixed and will be replaced this week. The city has a new pump in stock and will send the damaged unit for repairs.
Street maintenance efforts are ongoing following recent rainfall. Anderson is working to blade roads and clean ditches to improve water drainage. Gravel work will follow once initial repairs are completed.
Cemetery Report
A $150 donation was received from W. Sprague to support upkeep at the cemetery, which city officials said is looking well maintained. The board is considering additional fundraising ideas to cover the ongoing cost of maintenance.
Other Business
In old business, officials reported that all paperwork for a demolition grant has been submitted and the city is awaiting a response.
In new business, the board voted unanimously not to raise property taxes.
Closing Notes
Mayor Garrett noted the city has been experiencing favorable weather, with timely rain followed by mild conditions.
The meeting adjourned at 7 p.m. on a motion by Bange, seconded by Garrett.
— Submitted by Carol Dryden, City Clerk
