(KLZA) The Mound City Board of Aldermen met February 7th.  Henry Just, owner of Audrey’s Motel met with the Council asking they reconsider implementing a lodging tax which he feels will adversely affect his business and employees.  

Just noted he feels the increased lodging tax would cause fewer people to stay in Mound City which would mean fewer customers for area convenience stores, restaurants and bars.  Just also questioned the city’s plan for lodging tax funds which by law, are to be used for tourism purposes.  Just said Mound City does not have attractions to draw overnight visitors and that motel guests are mostly just travelers going up and down Interstate 29.

Mayor Chris Krueger said the intent of the lodging tax is to have more attractions in Mound City for people to participate in.  Aldermen Kristine Gibson and Robert Heck pointed out that cities down the road already have a lodging tax.  No action was taken. 

Library Board member Chris Boultinghouse met with Aldermen to discuss snow removal and the installation of a security camera inside the Library, raising concerns about privacy issues and who is monitoring the camera.  Police Chief John Panning said he talked with Library Director Carly Edwards and thought she wanted the camera installed but noted it could be removed.

In other business it was noted Mound City did not receive a Safe Routes to School grant and that the Davis Creek Bridge is not eligible for funding under the federal Hazardous Mitigation Program because the Missouri Department of Transportation already has the bridge on their list for federal aid funding. 

Water Department Superintendent Randy Crowley discussed purchasing a generator for the water plant and hiring summer help at the water plant.  Crowley said the Holt County Rural Water District had also contacted him about adding the City of Maitland to the Rural Districts service.

A bid was awarded to the Laukamper Dodge dealership in the amount of $26,050 for a 2013 Dodge 3500 4x4 cab and chasis.  Equipment for the dually pickup will be an additional $8,499 and will be provided by Knapheide Truck Equipment. 

Specs for the pool bathouse were not available but should be ready for the March meeting.  Bids for Griffith Park playground equipment will be opened at the April meeting.

City Attorney Brian Tubbs sent a letter to the City informing them of an increase in his fees to $125 per hour. A salary bonus of $1,000 for Police Chief John Panning for extra work over the past year when he was the only Mound City Police officer was approved unanimously.