Carthage, Missouri

City Council

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings for three Certificates of Appropriateness. The body will also discuss historic guidelines.

• Façade restoration request for 116 - 118 W 4th
• Plaster installation over brick on back façade at 141 Grant St
• New awning installation on front façade at 416 Lyon St
• Discussion of Historic Guidelines

Public Works Committee

Tree Board

Budget Ways & Means

City Council

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Public Library Board

Public Services Committee

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Tree Board

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

City Council

Public Library Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Budget Ways & Means

Carthage Water & Electric Board

City Council

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

Tree Board

Budget Ways & Means

Public Library Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Tree Board

Budget Ways & Means

Public Library Board

City Council

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Tree Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Public Library Board

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Tree Board

City Council

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Public Library Board

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Tree Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Public Library Board

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Tree Board

Public Library Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

City Council

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Tree Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Carthage Water & Electric Board

General

The Carthage Redevelopment Corporation will hold elections for its Board of Directors and officers. The body will also review a redevelopment plan for the Burlingame Chaffee Building.

• Board of Directors election
• Officers election
• Redevelopment plan review for Burlingame Chaffee Building at 136 E. 4th Street

General

The Civil War Museum Advisory Board will review and approve the previous meeting minutes and receive updates on museum visitor activity, operations, and upcoming needs. The board will examine current officer positions and determine next steps for leadership following President David Armstrong’s resignation effective June 23, 2026. The agenda also includes old business, new business, public comment, and adjournment.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Museum update on visitor activity and operations
• Discuss officer positions and leadership after President David Armstrong’s resignation (effective June 23, 2026)
• Old Business
• New Business

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review two new business items: a Soles4Paws fundraiser to be held in Municipal Park and a proposed assessment for the city pool. The committee will also receive staff reports on tourism, the Civil War Museum, Memorial Hall, golf, and parks. No formal decisions are indicated beyond discussion of the two items.

• Consider and discuss Soles4Paws fundraiser in Municipal Park
• Consider and discuss pool assessment
• Tourism, Public Information, and Civil War Museum staff report
• Memorial Hall staff report
• Golf and Parks staff reports

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will consider a request to partially close 2nd Street for a fundraiser. The body will also discuss an anonymous donation to the Fire Department.

• Request for partial closure of 2nd Street between Grant Street and Howard Street on October 1, 2026, from 3:00PM to 10:00PM
• Request for food truck parking during the McCune-Brooks Healthcare Foundation fundraiser
• Discussion regarding an anonymous donation to the Fire Department

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Board will approve the June 11, 2026 minutes and disbursements totaling $6,506,911.81. It will consider bids for on‑call excavation services and the completion of the Economic Development Park Access Road. The board will also consider three resolutions: amending Resolution 2026.05, amending the Revolving Loan Fund, and authorizing a loan to the CEDC.

• Approval of board minutes from June 11, 2026
• Approval of disbursements totaling $6,506,911.81
• Consideration of bids for on‑call excavation services
• Consideration of completion of Economic Development Park Access Road
• Resolution 2026.08: authorize a loan to the CEDC

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will meet to review financial reports, committee updates, and building projects. The board is scheduled to vote on revising bylaws, approving invoices, and a resolution regarding political subdivision election changes.

• Building Committee: Approve invoice from Randy Dubry Construction
• Board of Trustees: Revise By-Laws/Gifts of Corporate Stock
• Board of Trustees: Vote and Approve Resolution for Political Subdivision Election Changes
• Library Gardens: Carthage in Bloom 1st place award for best business gardens
• New Business: Compensation/Allowances

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will review and approve the June 23, 2026 minutes and the Claims Report. It will consider revisions to section 2-160 regarding resignation or discharge and to the Parks Administrative Assistant job description. New business includes discussion of a salary change for the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director and a job description for the Assistant Public Works Director.

• Approval of June 23, 2026 minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Consider changes to section 2-160 – resignation or discharge
• Consider salary change for Assistant Parks and Recreation Director
• Consider job description for Assistant Public Works Director

City Council

The City Council will discuss a letter of support for The Villas at Myers Park II and a budget adjustment resolution. The body will also consider an ordinance regarding open burning. A closed session is scheduled to discuss legal actions or litigation.

• C.B. 26-43: Ordinance amending Section 10-2 regarding Open Burning
• Resolution 2125: Supplemental budget adjustment for General Revenue, Golf, Capital Improvement Tax, and South Economic Development Park funds
• Discussion of a letter of support for The Villas at Myers Park II

The council adopted Ordinance 26-43 amending the open‑burning code (9‑0). It authorized the mayor to sign a letter of support for the Myers Park Villas II project. Resolution 2125, a supplemental budget adjustment affecting four city funds, was adopted (9‑0). Council member Ray West submitted his resignation effective August 1.

• Approved Ordinance 26-43 amending open‑burning rules (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Authorized mayor to sign letter of support for Myers Park Villas II (motion carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2125 – supplemental budget adjustment for four funds (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved salary grade change for Assistant Parks and Recreation Director from L to M (motion carried)
• Approved salary grade change for Assistant Public Works Director from L to M and placed employee on step 5 (motion carried)
• Approved sale of larger road grader and purchase of smaller grader (motion carried)
• Accepted $3,030,788.13 claims report covering multiple city funds (motion carried)
• Council member Ray West resigned, effective August 1 (no vote required)

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet on July 13, 2026. It will approve the June 8, 2026 minutes, then consider and discuss a budget adjustment resolution for FY 2025‑2026 and priority‑based budgeting, and hear staff reports. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Approve June 8, 2026 meeting minutes
• Consider budget adjustment resolution for FY 2025‑2026
• Discuss priority‑based budgeting
• Staff reports

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved forwarding budget adjustment resolutions for FY 2025-2026 to the City Council. The committee also discussed transitioning to a priority-based budgeting model and requested research on how other cities implement it.

• Approved June 8, 2026 minutes (4-0)
• Forwarded FY 2025-2026 budget adjustments to Council (4-0)

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will meet to review previous minutes and discuss a memorial tree donation. The meeting is scheduled for July 7, 2026, at the Parks & Recreation Office.

• Review minutes from previous meeting
• Discuss memorial tree donation

The Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Discussion included potential headstones for Liberty Tree locations, ash tree removal projects, and a volunteer offer for Central Park.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (3-0)
• No action taken on Fair Acres memorial donation request
• Ash tree removal project pending follow-up with Parks Director

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will first approve minutes from the June 2, 2026 meeting. It will then discuss an overhead electric easement between the City of Carthage and CWEP. The committee will also consider permit fee changes for villas at Myers Park and review a list of unfit structures. Staff reports will be presented by Josiah Bayless and Traci Cox.

• Approval of minutes from the June 2, 2026 meeting
• Discussion of overhead electric easement between City of Carthage and CWEP
• Consideration of permit fee changes for villas at Myers Park
• Review of list of unfit structures
• Staff reports from Josiah Bayless and Traci Cox

The committee approved the sale of a current road grader and the purchase of a smaller, newer model. Members also voted to forward an electric easement agreement and a senior housing permit fee waiver request to City Council.

• Approved June 2, 2026, meeting minutes
• Forwarded overhead electric easement agreement to City Council
• Forwarded senior housing permit fee waiver request to City Council contingent on more information
• Approved sale of current road grader and purchase of a smaller grader
• Approved agenda amendment for road grader discussion

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will review a blight request for the property at 103 E 3rd. It will hold a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for façade restoration at 116‑118 W 4th. The commission will also discuss updates to the Historic District Guidelines. Standard procedural items such as minutes and scheduling the next meeting are included.

• Consider blight request for property at 103 E 3rd
• Public hearing to request Certificate of Appropriateness for façade restoration at 116‑118 W 4th
• Discuss Historic District Guidelines

The committee approved a blight declaration for the property at 103 E 3rd Street. A request for facade restoration at 116-118 W 4th Street was tabled until the next meeting. Members also reviewed and adjusted the Historic District Guidelines matrix.

• Approved previous month's minutes
• Tabled facade restoration request for 116-118 W 4th Street (2-1)
• Approved blight declaration for 103 E 3rd Street (3-0, one abstention)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider the adoption of the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year budget. The body is also reviewing proposed utility rate changes and a subdivision re-plat.

• Public hearing and proposed adoption of the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year budget (C.B. 26-40)
• Proposed utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater services (C.B. 26-39)
• First Re-plat of Creekside Subdivision Lots 42, 43 and 44 at Chapel Road and Marble Avenue (C.B. 26-41)
• Proposed budget amendments for FY 2025-2026 for General, Public Safety, Golf, and Capital Improvement Tax funds (C.B. 26-42)
• Proposed amendment to Section 10-2 – Open Burning of the Carthage City Code (C.B. 26-43)

The Carthage City Council approved the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 operating and capital budget by a 9-1 vote, with Council Member Ron Wells dissenting. The council also unanimously passed an ordinance authorizing utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater services, alongside ordinances approving a subdivision re-plat at Chapel Road and Marble Avenue and amending the current fiscal year's budget.

• Approved Ordinance 26-40 adopting Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget (9-1)
• Approved Ordinance 26-39 authorizing utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater services (10-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-41 accepting re-plat of Creekside Subdivision Lots 42, 43, and 44 at Chapel Road and Marble Avenue (10-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-42 amending Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget for specified funds (10-0)
• Accepted claims report totaling $1,491,076.73 across General Revenue, Payroll, Water & Electric, and other funds
• Approved Assistant Parks and Recreation Director position per Committee on Insurance, Audit and Claims recommendation
• Approved bid from Fire Station Furniture Company for 9 mattresses and bed frames totaling $8,459.82
• Appointed Jason Martin, Ken Lown, Jeff Pinnell, and Ethan Snow to the Police and Fire Pension Committee until July 2028

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to review the claims report and approve previous minutes. The body will also discuss job descriptions for two positions within the Parks and Recreation department.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of Assistant Parks & Recreation Director job description
• Discussion of Parks Administrative Assistant job description

The Committee on Insurance/Audit and Claims approved the June 9, 2026 minutes and the Claims Report. The committee voted to forward a proposed Assistant Parks & Recreation Director job description to the city council for approval. Discussion of the Parks Administrative Assistant job description was postponed until the July 14 meeting. City Administrator Traci Cox reported that an audit regarding the golf course is ongoing.

• Approved June 9, 2026 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Claims Report (4-0)
• Forwarded Assistant Parks & Recreation Director job description to council for approval (4-0)
• Postponed Parks Administrative Assistant job description discussion until July 14 meeting (4-0)

Public Services Committee

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss several community requests, including signage, a food truck permit, road closures for a youth fair, a Hispanic Heritage Celebration, and a Cruise In event. New business includes reviewing recreational burning regulations and a proposal to use remaining building maintenance capital to purchase beds for the fire station from Fire Station Furniture Company. The committee will also receive staff reports from the fire and police departments.

• Consider and discuss "Children at play" signage
• Consider and discuss permission for a food truck on the square by Cherry's on June 20
• Consider and discuss road closures for the Jasper County Youth Fair
• Consider and discuss using remaining building maintenance capital to purchase beds for the fire station
• Consider and discuss recreational burning regulations

The committee approved several road closures for the Hispanic Heritage Celebration and moved Jasper County Youth Fair requests to the full council. Additionally, members approved updates to recreational burning regulations and authorized a purchase of beds and mattresses for the Fire Department.

• Approved 5-18-26 minutes
• Moved Jasper County Youth Fair road closure requests to full council
• Approved road closures for Hispanic Heritage Celebration on September 26th
• Forwarded changes to Sec. 10-2 regarding recreational burning regulations
• Authorized $8,459.82 plus shipping purchase of beds and mattresses from Fire Station Furniture Company

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will meet on June 11, 2026 to approve its May 14 minutes and a May disbursement of $4,613,271.88. The board will elect its FY27 officers and consider revisions to both the travel policy and the Salary Administration Guidelines Policy. A portion of the meeting may be closed for personnel matters under Missouri law.

• Approval of Board minutes from May 14, 2026
• Approval of May disbursements totaling $4,613,271.88
• Selection of Board officers for FY27
• Consideration of revisions to the CWEP travel policy
• Consideration of revisions to the Salary Administration Guidelines Policy

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board approved a new slate of officers for fiscal year 2027. The board also accepted revisions to the travel policy and added three specific job positions to the salary guidelines.

• Approved May 14th, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May disbursements of $4,613,271.88 (unanimous)
• Approved May 2026 financials (unanimous)
• Approved FY27 officer slate: Schmidt (President), Teel (Vice President), and Garrison (Secretary) (unanimous)
• Accepted revisions to Article XLIV of the personnel policy manual regarding travel/training (unanimous)
• Added Accounting Manager, Safety Manager, and Safety Specialist positions to salary guidelines (unanimous)
• Entered closed session for personnel matters (unanimous)

Public Library Board

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider approving the 2026-2027 budget, utility rate changes, and a $25,000 agreement for the Oak Street Bridge plan review. The meeting also includes the appointment of a Ward 2 Council Member and the distribution of $62,000 from a hospital trust.

• Approval of 2026-2027 Operating and Capital Budget
• Utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater
• Agreement with Union Pacific Railroad for Oak Street Bridge plan review ($25,000)
• Acceptance of First Re-plat of Creekside Subdivision
• Distribution of $62,000 from McCune-Brooks Regional Hospital Trust

The City Council approved an agreement with Union Pacific Railroad for the Oak Street Bridge plan review and appointed Mariela Telles to the Ward 2 Council seat. Several ordinances regarding utility rates, the annual budget, and subdivision re-plats were introduced for first reading.

• Approved May 26, 2026 meeting minutes
• Approved road easement agreement for industrial park
• Accepted $2,344,012.99 in claims across multiple funds
• Approved Ordinance 26-38 for Oak Street Bridge plan review ($25,000)
• Appointed Mariela Telles as Ward 2 Council Member until April 2027
• Appointed Mariela Telles to Public Safety and Public Services Committees
• Adopted Resolution 2123 for $62,000 hospital trust fund distribution
• Adopted Resolution 2124 for Golf Fund ash tree removal/replacement

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The committee approved the May 26, 2026, meeting minutes and the claims report. Discussion regarding changes to 2-160 was postponed until the July 14th meeting. City Administrator Cox reported that Anthem will refund the City $29,000 due to lower risk claims.

• Approved May 26, 2026, minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Postponed discussion of 2-160 until July 14th meeting (3-0)

Budget Ways & Means

The committee will discuss the budget for fiscal year 26/27 and budget adjustments for FY 25/26. Members will also consider a resolution for ash tree removal and replacement in the Golf Fund Capital.

• Resolution for Golf Fund Capital budget adjustment for ash tree removal and replacement
• Budget adjustment for FY 25/26
• FY 26/27 Budget

The Budget Ways & Means Committee voted to forward two budget adjustment items to the City Council. The committee also discussed the FY 26/27 budget, including department spending and projected revenue.

• Approved May 20, 2026 minutes (4-0)
• Forwarded Ash Tree Removal and Replacement resolution to Council (4-0)
• Forwarded FY 25/26 budget adjustment to Council (4-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will meet to discuss a road easement agreement near the Economic Development Park and a permit fee schedule. The committee will also consider a budget adjustment for the rebuild of the Recycle Center Loader.

• Road Easement Agreement near Economic Development Park
• Budget adjustment for Recycle Center Loader rebuild
• Permit Fee Schedule

The committee accepted the minutes from the May 5, 2026 meeting. It voted to forward the South Industrial Park road easement agreement to the City Council. It sent a budget adjustment request for the recycle‑center loader repair to the Budget Committee. Finally, it approved the proposed building permit fee increases, including a 25% rise in plan‑review fees.

• Accepted May 5 minutes (all ayes)
• Forwarded South Industrial Park easement agreement to City Council (all ayes)
• Forwarded recycle‑center loader budget adjustment request to Budget Committee (all ayes)
• Approved building permit fee increases and 25% plan‑review fee increase (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:12 p.m. (all ayes)

Tree Board

The Tree Board will meet to discuss several planting initiatives and event planning. The body is scheduled to review the Grand Street tree project and preparations for Arbor Day 2027.

• Grand Street tree project discussion
• Arbor Day 2027 planning
• 250th tree planting discussion

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee will consider a replat for Creekside Subdivision lots 42, 43, and 44. A public hearing will address a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 423 S Main Street. The commission will also discuss updates to Historic District Guidelines.

• Discuss the 1st Replat of Creekside Subdivision Lots 42, 43, 44
• Public hearing on Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 423 S Main Street
• Discuss Historic District Guidelines

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee approved the prior meeting minutes. It approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 423 S Main Street. It also approved the first replat of Creekside Division Lots 42, 43, and 44. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved previous minutes (motion carried, no opposition)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 423 S Main Street (motion carried, no opposition)
• Approved 1st Replat of Creekside Division Lots 42, 43, 44 (motion carried, no opposition)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried, no opposition)

General

The McCune Brooks Regional Hospital Trust Board of Trustees will meet to approve prior meeting minutes, elect officers for FY 2026-2027, and review a grant application from the City of Carthage.

• Approval of February 25th, 2026 meeting minutes
• Election of FY 2026-2027 President/Vice President and Secretary
• Review of City of Carthage grant application
• Financial statement report and review
• Setting next meeting date for August 26th, 2026

City Council

The Carthage City Council will vote on several ordinances, including an emergency buy‑back of a Myers Park parcel for $130,000. Additional emergency ordinances will authorize contracts with the Fair Acres Family YMCA for $35,000 and with Union Pacific for a $25,000 bridge plan review. The council will also consider routine ordinances covering a Chamber of Commerce services contract, a $23,000 contract with the Over 60 Center, acceptance of a final plat for South Rollins Creek, and an amendment adding short‑term rentals as a special use.

• C.B. 26-36 – Emergency ordinance to buy back Myers Park property for $130,000
• C.B. 26-37 – Emergency ordinance to contract with Fair Acres Family YMCA for $35,000
• C.B. 26-38 – Ordinance to contract with Union Pacific for $25,000 Oak Street Bridge plan review
• C.B. 26-26 – Ordinance authorizing contract with Carthage Over 60 Center up to $23,000
• C.B. 26-34 – Ordinance accepting final plat of South Rollins Creek at NE corner of Fairview and Buena Vista

The council approved several ordinances, including adding short‑term rentals as a regulated special use. It also authorized contracts with the Chamber of Commerce, the Over‑60 Center, the YMCA, and a buy‑back of Myers Park property. Road closures for events were approved, and a motion to negotiate Lime scooter operations was rejected.

• Approved Ordinance 26-32 authorizing Mayor to contract with Chamber of Commerce (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Ordinance 26-33 authorizing Mayor to contract with Carthage Over 60 Center up to $23,000 (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Ordinance 26-34 accepting final plat of South Rollins Creek (8 yeas, 1 nay)
• Approved Ordinance 26-35 amending code to add short‑term rentals as a special use (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Emergency Ordinance 26-36 buying back Myers Park property for $130,000 (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Emergency Ordinance 26-37 YMCA wading pool management contract for $35,000 (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved road closure on Belle Air July 2, 6‑8 pm (motion carried)
• Motion to negotiate Lime scooter contract failed (4 yeas, 5 nays)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to review the claims report and previous meeting minutes. The body will also consider and discuss changes to Section 2-160 regarding resignation or discharge.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of changes to Section 2-160 - Resignation or Discharge

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee unanimously approved the May 12, 2026 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved the claims report. The committee voted to forward proposed changes to Section 2-160 to the city attorney for review. The meeting was adjourned at 6:13 PM.

• Approved May 12, 2026 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Forwarded Section 2-160 changes to city attorney (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:13 PM (4-0)

General

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will approve the minutes from the May 13, 2026 meeting, hear staff reports, and continue finalizing the fiscal year 2026‑2027 budget. No other substantive actions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of May 13, 2026 minutes
• Continue fiscal year 2026‑2027 budget perfection
• Staff reports

The committee approved the FY 2026‑2027 budget with a cost‑of‑living adjustment effective July 1, 2026 and a longevity step in January 2027, passing the motion 4‑1. A motion to reinstate the full step increase in the FY 26/27 budget was rejected by a 2‑3 vote. The May 13, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously (5‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 7:01 PM with a unanimous 5‑0 vote.

• Approved May 13, 2026 minutes (5-0)
• Motion to put full step increase back into FY26/27 budget failed (2-3)
• Motion to forward budget with COLA increase on July 1, 2026 and longevity step in Jan 2027 passed (4-1)
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to discuss two variance requests. The board will review requests to encroach upon setbacks at two different properties.

• Variance request for side yard setback encroachment at 814 Sophia
• Lot size variance and rear yard setback encroachment request at 703 Clinton

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review items for the Jasper County Youth Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Kid's Fishing Day. The body will also discuss the Carl Lewton Stadium agreement, Central Park wading pool operations, and Lime scooter usage. Staff will provide reports on tourism, Memorial Hall, golf, and parks.

• Consider Carl Lewton Stadium agreement
• Consider Lime scooters
• Consider playground proposals for Fair Acres Park and Municipal Park
• Consider pickleball and futsal courts for Municipal Park and Carter Park
• Consider Central Park wading pool operations

The Public Services Committee approved the Jasper County Youth Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Kid's Fishing Day events, each with a 4‑0 vote. It also approved Option 4 of the Central Park wading pool contract for $22,000 and a $13,000 YMCA Aquatics Center usage agreement, both unanimously. The Carl Lewton Stadium agreement was tabled, and a motion to forward the Lime scooter contract failed 2‑2.

• Approved Jasper County Youth Fair request (4-0)
• Approved Concerts in the Park request (4-0)
• Approved Kid's Fishing Day request (4-0)
• Approved Central Park wading pool Option 4 contract $22,000 (4-0)
• Approved YMCA Aquatics Center usage contract $13,000 (4-0)
• Tabled Carl Lewton Stadium agreement (4-0)
• Failed motion to forward Lime scooter contract (2-2)
• No action on playground and pickleball/futsal proposals

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will consider several requests for temporary road closures for community events and a permanent speed limit change. The body will also discuss the use of Lime Scooters.

• Proposed 20MPH speed limit in Rollins Creek community
• Closure of Belle Air from Grand Ave to the cul-de-sac on July 2nd
• Road closures for Kids Fishing Day
• Road closures for Food Truck Friday and Cruise-In/Car Show on W. Chestnut St.
• Discussion regarding Lime Scooters

The Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the April 21, 2026 meeting. It forwarded a request to set a 15 mph speed limit in the Rollins Creek community to the Public Works Committee. The committee also approved street closures for a July 3 block party/parade on Belle Air, for the Kids Fishing Day event on June 5, and for Food Truck Friday and the associated Cruise‑In/Car Show dates, including a westbound lane closure on Chestnut Street. All motions passed without recorded vote tallies.

• Approved April 21, 2026 minutes (motion passed)
• Forwarded Rollins Creek 15 mph speed‑limit request to Public Works Committee (motion passed)
• Approved Belle Air street closure for July 3 block party/parade (motion passed)
• Approved street closures for Kids Fishing Day on June 5 (motion passed)
• Approved Food Truck Friday road closures and westbound lane closure on Chestnut Street for June 12, July 10, Aug 14, Sept 11 (motion passed)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 9 meeting and April disbursements of $5,840,518.82. It also approved the March and April 2026 financial statements. A $60,000 loan to Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church d/b/a Little Lambs Childcare was recommended and approved. Additional contracts were awarded for a power plant relay upgrade and a landscaping project.

• Approved April disbursements of $5,840,518.82 (unanimous)
• Approved March and April 2026 financials (unanimous)
• Approved $60,000 loan to Little Lambs Childcare (unanimous)
• Awarded Power Plant & Plant Sub Relay Upgrade to B&L Electric Inc. for $176,032.31 (unanimous)
• Awarded landscaping contract to Scott’s Landscape and Excavation for $66,470.00 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 9, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recommending the loan to Little Lambs Childcare (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:35 p.m. (unanimous)

General

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet to discuss the Carthage Water and Electric budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 and address 'Budget Perfection'.

• Discussion of Carthage Water and Electric budget for fiscal year 2026-2027
• Approval of May 11, 2026 minutes
• Citizens Participation
• Staff Reports
• Adjournment

The Ways & Means Committee approved the May 11, 2026 minutes. It then voted to forward the Carthage Water and Electric budget for fiscal year 2026‑27 to the City Council. The committee also approved an adjustment to longevity step and cost‑of‑living increases in the budget. The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.

• Approved May 11, 2026 minutes (5‑0)
• Forwarded FY 2026‑27 Water & Electric budget to Council (5‑0)
• Adjusted longevity step increase and COLA increase in budget (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

City Council

The City Council approved the minutes from the April 28 meeting and accepted a $21,450 bid for a recycle‑center forklift. Five ordinances (26‑27 through 26‑31) were adopted, authorizing a pavilion lease, a $134,143 sidewalk and pavilion contract, Vision Carthage services, a nuisance‑code amendment, and a holiday‑schedule amendment. Two budget‑adjustment resolutions were passed to fund police rifles and workout equipment and to upfit a 2024 Ford brush truck. Several board members were reappointed for terms extending to 2029‑2030.

• Approved April 28, 2026 Council minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted B&H Industrial bid for Unicarrier Forklift, $21,450.00 (motion carried)
• Adopted Ordinance 26‑27 authorizing a one‑year pavilion lease for a skating rink (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Ordinance 26‑28 authorizing $134,143.00 contract with Elements Construction for Kellogg Lake sidewalk and pavilion (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Ordinance 26‑29 authorizing contract with Vision Carthage for specified services (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Ordinance 26‑30 amending Chapter 15 – Nuisances of the City Code (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Resolution 2121 adjusting the Public Safety Fund for police rifles and workout equipment (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Resolution 2122 adjusting the Capital Improvements Fund to upfit the 2024 Ford Brush truck (9 yeas, 0 nays)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial and service reports. The board is scheduled to approve the budget for the 2026-2027 period.

• Approval of 2026-2027 Budget
• Payment of bills
• Building Committee report
• Compensation/Wages discussion

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to approve prior minutes and a claims report, and to discuss proposed changes to the Carthage City Code regarding resignations and discharge.

• Approval of April 28, 2026 Minutes
• Review & Approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of changes to Section 2-160 of the Carthage City Code

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the April 28, 2026 meeting. It also unanimously approved the claims report. Members agreed to revise the draft amendment to Section 2‑160 of the City Code and defer further review to the next committee meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:19 PM by a unanimous vote.

• Approved April 28, 2026 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Postponed review of Section 2-160 code changes to next meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 6:19 PM (4-0)

Budget Ways & Means

The Carthage Budget Ways & Means Committee will discuss budget adjustments for the Police and Fire Departments, as well as contracts with the Chamber of Commerce and the Over 60 Center. The meeting will also include a review of the FY 2026-2027 budget.

• Consider and Discuss Budget Adjustment for Police Department
• Consider and Discuss Contract with the Chamber of Commerce
• Consider and Discuss Contract with the Over 60 Center
• Consider and Discuss Budget Adjustment for Fire Department
• FY 2026-2027 Budget Review

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved the March 9 minutes and unanimously forwarded four items to the City Council: a police department budget adjustment for rifles and exercise equipment, a revised Chamber of Commerce contract, the Over 60 Center contract, and a fire department budget adjustment for a brush truck. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved March 9, 2026 minutes (5-0)
• Forwarded police department budget adjustment to Council (5-0)
• Forwarded revised Chamber of Commerce contract to Council (5-0)
• Forwarded Over 60 Center contract to Council (5-0)
• Forwarded fire department budget adjustment to Council (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Tree Board

The Tree Board is holding a work session to discuss new business. The primary item for discussion is a work day for the Grand Street project.

• Grand Street project work day

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will discuss the county road tax. It will consider bids received for a forklift and receive an update on a loader for the recycle center. The committee will review engineering plans for the Oak Street bridge. It will also approve the minutes from the April 8, 2026 meeting.

• Discuss County Road Tax
• Consider bids for forklift
• Update on loader for the Recycle Center
• Engineering review of Oak St. Bridge
• Approve minutes from April 8, 2026 meeting

The Public Works Committee accepted the April 8 minutes. It approved the $21,450 bid from B & H Industrial for a replacement forklift and will forward it to City Council. The committee also moved forward with the Oak St. Bridge design review and agreement with the railroad. All motions passed unanimously.

• Accepted April 8, 2026 minutes (all ayes)
• Approved B & H Industrial forklift bid ($21,450) and will forward to City Council (all ayes)
• Authorized review of Oak St. Bridge plans and entry into agreement with the railroad (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting (all ayes)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee accepted a short‑term rental ordinance and sent it to the City Council for consideration. It also approved certificates of appropriateness for three signage requests and a rehabilitation project, and approved both the preliminary and final plats for a new subdivision. One signage request was tabled.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 116‑118 W 4th St (motion carried)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 115 W Chestnut (motion carried)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for rehabilitation of 136 E 4th St (motion carried, one abstention)
• Tabled Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 423 S Main St (motion carried)
• Accepted Short Term Rental Ordinance and forwarded to City Council (motion carried)
• Approved Preliminary Plat for subdivision at NE corner of Fairview and Buena Vista with side‑yard setback waiver (motion carried)
• Approved Final Plat for same subdivision for City Council consideration (motion carried)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will hold a public hearing on an annexation request for Lot 13 in the Breckenwood 3rd Addition. The council will consider several ordinances, including authorizing the mayor to enter agreements for tourism services and a pavilion lease. New business includes a $134,143 contract with Elements Construction Concepts for the Kellogg Lake sidewalk and pavilion. The meeting also includes routine reports, old business items, and a possible closed session on real‑estate matters.

• Public hearing to consider annexation of Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition
• Ordinance C.B. 26-24 authorizing mayor to agreement with Boots Court Foundation for tourism and marketing services
• Ordinance C.B. 26-27 authorizing lease of Municipal Park pavilion to Jason and Pam Graff for a skating rink
• Ordinance C.B. 26-28 contract with Elements Construction Concepts, Inc. for Kellogg Lake sidewalk and pavilion ($134,143.00)
• Ordinance C.B. 26-29 contract with Vision Carthage for specified services (July 1 2026 – June 30 2027)

The City Council voted 9‑0 to annex Lot 13 in the Breckenwood 3rd Addition (Ordinance 26‑22). It also approved Ordinance 26‑23 adding a clerk agenda‑posting requirement and Ordinance 26‑24 authorizing a tourism services agreement with the Boots Court Foundation. Additional actions included multiple street‑closure approvals, a $25,400 roof‑repair contract for Station 1, purchase of AED supplies with Use Tax funds, and acceptance of a $601,738.17 claims report.

• Approved annexation of Lot 13 (Ordinance 26‑22) – 9 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved clerk agenda‑posting amendment (Ordinance 26‑23) – 9 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved tourism services agreement with Boots Court Foundation (Ordinance 26‑24) – 9 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved street closure on Wendy Lane May 30, 5‑8 pm – motion carried
• Approved street closure on East 2nd Street May 5, 2‑6:30 pm – motion carried
• Approved Ridgeline Roofing bid $25,400 for Station 1 roof repair – motion carried
• Approved purchase of additional AED supplies using Use Tax funds – motion carried
• Accepted claims report totaling $601,738.17 – motion carried

General

The Police and Fire Pension Committee will review investment reports and an experience study. The body will discuss and approve an auditor for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, and discuss the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for the plan.

• Approval of auditor for fiscal year ending 12/31/2025
• Discussion of COLA for the pension plan
• Quarterly report on investments
• Review of experience study and assumptions
• Election process for pension board members

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will approve the April 14, 2026 meeting minutes and the Claims Report. It will then consider and discuss revisions to the Personnel Policy regarding Section 503 holidays. The meeting will also include staff reports before adjourning.

• Approval of April 14, 2026 minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Consideration of changes to the Personnel Policy – Section 503 (Holidays Authorized)
• Staff reports

The committee unanimously approved the April 14, 2026 minutes and the claims report. It adopted changes to the personnel policy adding Good Friday and adjusting Christmas Eve and Christmas weekend holidays. The meeting time was changed to 6 p.m. unless a fuller agenda requires the original 5:30 p.m. start. Additional motions to bring back the original resignation and discharge language for the City Administrator and to adjourn were also passed.

• Approved April 14, 2026 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Approved personnel policy holiday changes (4-0)
• Approved moving committee meeting time to 6 p.m. unless fuller agenda (4-0)
• Approved bringing original resignation and discharge section for City Administrator (4-0)
• Approved adjournment (4-0)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will consider several requests for temporary street closures for community events. The body will also discuss a budget adjustment for the Fire Department and an amendment to the nuisance ordinance.

• Proposed street closures for Wendy Lane, E. 2nd Street, and Olive Street
• Ordinance amending Chapter 15 - Nuisances
• Fire Department budget adjustment to move funds from Bunker Gear Thermal Imaging Camera to AED accessories
• CFD roof sealed bid
• Request for C-Town Cruise to back in on all sides of the square

The Public Safety Committee approved several temporary street closures for community events, forwarded a code amendment to the full council, and authorized a backup‑in parking arrangement for C‑Town Cruise nights. It accepted a $25,400 bid from Ridgeline Roofing for Station 1 roof repair and approved a budget adjustment to buy AED accessories. No action was taken on the city taxi service request.

• Approved 3/19/26 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved closure of Wendy Lane (Laura St to Buena Vista) for May 30 block party (motion passed)
• Approved closure of E 2nd St (Grant to Howard) and City parking lot at 2nd & Howard for May 5 Cinco de Mayo event (motion passed)
• Approved closure of portion of Olive St (Garrison west to alley) for June 5 Boots Block Party (motion passed)
• Forwarded ordinance amending Chapter 15 Nuisances to full council (motion passed)
• Allowed backing into parking spots on all sides of the Square during C‑Town Cruise nights, 4:00 pm‑9:00 pm (motion passed)
• Accepted Ridgeline Roofing bid of $25,400 for Station 1 roof repair (motion passed)
• Approved fire department use‑tax budget adjustment to purchase AED accessories instead of thermal imaging cameras (motion passed)

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee approved several community event permits, a contract for a $134,143 Kellogg Lake improvement, and other service contracts. It also directed the Parks Director to gather information on Lime scooter geofencing for the next council meeting. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved request for Lime scooter information to be compiled and sent to May 12 Council meeting (3‑0)
• Approved use of Central Park on May 30, 4:00‑8:00 PM for Schreiber Park Day and a food truck (3‑0)
• Approved use of Carter Park on May 30, 1:00‑3:00 PM for Arvest Bank Fiesta en el Parque and a food truck (3‑0)
• Approved overnight camping in Municipal Park July 29‑30 for Electrek American Solar Challenge teams (3‑0)
• Approved Elements Construction bid of $134,143 for Kellogg Lake rearing pond improvements (3‑0)
• Approved the skating rink contract and forward it to Council (3‑0)
• Approved the Saddle Club grant request, pending additional project information (3‑0)
• Approved the Vision Carthage contract with revised budget allocation (3‑0)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review financial reports for February and March, discuss the 2026‑2027 budget, and consider a patron's request to change the library's Food and Drink policy. Additional items include updates from the council liaison, committee reports, and compensation/wage revisions.

• Review of February and March financial reports
• Discussion of the 2026‑2027 library budget
• Patron request to revise the “Food and Drink” policy
• Compensation/Wages and Lagers revision
• Reports from Building and Budget committees

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will consider approval of the March 24, 2026 meeting minutes. It will also review and decide on the claims report. The committee will receive staff reports as new business. No other actions are listed on the agenda.

• Approve March 24, 2026 meeting minutes
• Review and approve the claims report
• Staff reports (new business)

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee approved the March 24, 2026 meeting minutes. The committee also approved the claims report. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved March 24, 2026 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider a series of ordinances and resolutions, including annexing new territory, amending subdivision plats, and authorizing contracts for tourism, chamber services, and senior services. A budget adjustment for the Public Safety Fund to purchase police rifles and workout equipment will also be voted on. The meeting includes routine items such as approvals of minutes, public comments, and mayoral reports.

• C.B. 26-12 – Ordinance annexing Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition into the City of Carthage
• C.B. 26-22 – Emergency Ordinance amending the re‑plat of Blackberry Briar Subdivision east of Prospect Avenue
• C.B. 26-26 – Ordinance authorizing a contract with the Carthage Over 60 Center for services up to $23,000
• Resolution 2121 – Budget adjustment to the Public Safety Fund for two rifles and workout equipment for the Police Department
• C.B. 26-25 – Ordinance authorizing a contract with the Carthage Chamber of Commerce for specified services from July 1 2026 to June 30 2027

The council accepted a claims report totaling $2,519,972.86. It also passed three ordinances authorizing use of Fair Acres fields for youth softball and YMCA programs and establishing posting locations for public‑meeting notices, each by a 7‑0 vote. New council members were sworn in and Juan Topete was appointed Mayor Pro Tem. Several items, including two council bills and a resolution, were postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved $2,519,972.86 claims report (motion carried)
• Approved Ordinance 26-18 for Youth Softball League use of Fair Acres fields (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-19 for YMCA use of Fair Acres fields (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-20 establishing posting locations for public meeting notices (7-0)
• Approved Mayor’s Committee and Board Liaison appointments (motion carried)
• Sworn in new council members and appointed Juan Topete as Mayor Pro Tem
• Postponed Council Bills 26-25 and 26-26 and Resolution 2121 to next meeting (motion carried)
• Approved Ordinance 26-21 amending Blackberry Briar subdivision re‑plat (7-0)

Tree Board

The Tree Board will meet to discuss a tree project on Grand Street and plans for Arbor Day 2026. The board will also review previous meeting minutes.

• Grand Street tree project discussion
• Arbor Day 2026 planning

Budget Ways & Means

The Carthage Budget Ways & Means Committee will consider budget adjustments for the Public Safety Fund and discuss contracts with the Chamber of Commerce and the Over 60 Center. The committee will also review revenue estimates for the FY 2026-2027 budget year.

• Consider Budget Adjustment for Public Safety Fund
• Consider Chamber of Commerce Contract
• Consider Over 60 Center Contract
• Review Revenue Estimates for FY 2026-2027
• Approval of March 9, 2026 Minutes

General

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will approve the minutes from February 19, 2026, and authorize disbursements of $5,447,814.16 for February and $5,007,323.70 for March. The board will consider a resolution to approve authorized signatures, a purchase of a Wastewater Drive Unit for East Grit Chamber, bids for a Well 17 pump and motor upgrade, and revisions to salary administration guidelines. The primary agenda item is the consideration of the Fiscal Year 2026‑2027 budget.

• Approve board minutes from February 19, 2026
• Authorize disbursements: $5,447,814.16 (Feb) and $5,007,323.70 (Mar)
• Consider purchase of a Wastewater Drive Unit for East Grit Chamber
• Consider bids for Well 17 pump and motor upgrade
• Consider the Fiscal Year 2026‑2027 budget

The CWEP Board unanimously approved the February and March disbursements, the February 2026 financial statements, and a resolution authorizing new signatories. It also approved purchases of a wastewater drive unit, a Well 17 pump and motor, continued IRP consulting, the FY 2026‑2027 budget with a 3.8% wage increase, and revisions to the Salary Administration Guidelines. All actions passed unanimously except one member abstained on the authorized‑signatures resolution.

• Approved minutes of Feb 19 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved February disbursements of $5,447,814.16 (unanimous)
• Approved March disbursements of $5,007,323.70 (unanimous)
• Approved authorized signatures for financial accounts (unanimous; Schmidt abstained)
• Approved purchase of wastewater drive unit for $58,730.00 (unanimous)
• Awarded Well 17 pump and motor contract to Flynn Drilling for $55,515.00 (unanimous)
• Approved continued engagement with Black & Veatch as IRP consultant (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2026‑2027 budget with 3.8% wage and rate adjustments (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee will first consider and approve the minutes from the March 3, 2026 meeting. The committee will then discuss the lot split survey plat for the property at 2740 Grand Avenue. No other decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from March 3, 2026 meeting
• Discussion of lot split survey plat for 2740 Grand Ave

The committee accepted the March 3, 2026 meeting minutes. It voted to forward a resolution to the City Council for a Survey Plat for the 2740 Grand Ave. lot split. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted March 3, 2026 minutes (unanimous ayes)
• Forwarded resolution for Survey Plat for 2740 Grand Ave. (unanimous ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:08 p.m. (unanimous ayes)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will review preliminary plats for two new subdivisions. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding the removal of structures at two specific addresses.

• Preliminary Plat for subdivision at NE corner of Fairview and Buena Vista
• Preliminary Plat for subdivision at Fir Road and Chapel Road (1310 W Fir Road)
• Certificate of Appropriateness to remove a house at 807 Grant
• Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition of structure at 300 Howard

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee approved a Certificate of Appropriateness to demolish the structure at 300 Howard after staff and the city engineer recommended demolition. The committee also approved a Certificate of Appropriateness to remove a house at 807 Grant for relocation by Bridge Christian Church. No other applications were acted on.

• Approved demolition of 300 Howard (motion by Rick Stuart, second Robyn Peterson, no opposition)
• Approved removal of house at 807 Grant (motion by Torie Bounous, second Matthew Smith, Josh Anderson abstained, no opposition)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (motion by Matthew Smith, second Phillip Brown, no opposition)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Rick Stuart, second Robyn Peterson, no opposition)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will first approve the March 10, 2026 meeting minutes. It will then review and vote on the claims report. The committee will also discuss proposed amendments to city code sections 2-178 and 2-160. The meeting concludes with staff reports and adjournment.

• Approve March 10, 2026 meeting minutes
• Review and approve the claims report
• Consider amendment to Section 2-178 to require the city clerk to post all agendas
• Consider amendment to Section 2-160 regarding resignation or discharge of the City Administrator

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the March 10, 2026 minutes and the claims report, each by a 3‑0 vote. It moved a proposed change to Section 2‑178 on agenda posting to the next council meeting, also by 3‑0. The committee amended the wording of Section 2‑160 concerning City Administrator removal and forwarded the revised bill to the full council, again by a unanimous 3‑0 vote. The meeting adjourned at 6:08 PM.

• Approved March 10, 2026 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Forwarded Section 2-178 agenda‑posting amendment to council (3-0)
• Amended Section 2-160 removal wording and forwarded to council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance to annex a 24.23 acre parcel on East Fir Road. The body is also reviewing agreements for bridge engineering and sports complex usage.

• Public hearing and ordinance (C.B. 26-13) to annex 24.23 acres on East Fir Road
• Ordinance (C.B. 26-14) to accept the re-plat of Blackberry Briar Subdivision
• Agreement (C.B. 26-15) with Zanevan Engineering, LLC for the 3rd Street Bridge Replacement Project
• Agreements (C.B. 26-19, 26-20) for use of Fair Acres Sports Complex by Carthage Youth Softball League and Fair Acres YMCA
• Resolution 2118 to accept a Missouri Department of Public Safety Local Violent Crime Prevention Grant

The council accepted a $2,367,517.50 claims report covering multiple city funds. It approved alcohol service in Central Park for a June 27 event and for Food Truck Friday dates, authorized street closures for those events, and permitted the Cruise for a Cause monthly event on the square. The council also authorized the police department to purchase two rifles and new workout equipment, and approved use of Central Park and the Fair Acres lot for various community events.

• Accepted $2,367,517.50 claims report (motion carried)
• Approved alcohol in Central Park on June 27, 6:30‑9:30 pm (motion carried)
• Approved alcohol for Food Truck Friday events on Apr 10, May 8, Jun 12, Jul 10, Aug 14, Sep 11, 6‑9 pm (motion carried; one no vote)
• Approved closure of 7th St from Garrison to Lyon and Lyon St from 7th to Chestnut, 8:7 am‑10 pm for Food Truck Friday events (motion carried)
• Approved Cruise for a Cause event on the square, allowing cars to back into south‑side spaces, 4‑10 pm (motion carried)
• Authorized Police Department to purchase two rifles (motion carried)
• Authorized Police Department to purchase workout equipment (motion carried)
• Approved use of Central Park for Great American Days (May 12), Vision Carthage clean‑up (Apr 18), and Evening Soiree (June 27) and use of Fair Acres lot for Dumpster Day (May 3) (motion carried)

General

The Civil War Museum Advisory Board will examine the current city code section 2-496, the museum's 1999 mission statement, and a proposed updated mission, vision, and scope of interpretation. They will also discuss the adjacent interpretive space, community information area, and possible uses for the upstairs conference room. No new business items are listed.

• Review City Code Section 2-496
• Review 1999 museum mission statement
• Consider updated mission, vision, and scope of interpretation
• Discuss adjacent interpretive and community information space
• Discuss potential uses for the upstairs conference room

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will discuss several community events and contracts, including a youth softball contract and a YMCA soccer contract. They will also review proposals for Great American's Day, Vision Carthage Cleanup Day, Community Dumpster Day, Vision Carthage Evening Soiree, a donation to the municipal golf course, and a Boots Court Visitor's Center contract. Staff reports on golf, Memorial Hall, parks, the Civil War Museum, and tourism will be presented.

• Consider and discuss Youth Softball contract
• Consider and discuss YMCA soccer contract
• Consider and discuss donation to Carthage Municipal Golf Course
• Consider and discuss Boots Court Visitor's Center contract
• Consider and discuss Great American's Day in Central Park

The Public Services Committee approved the February 17, 2026 meeting minutes and authorized several community events and contracts, all passing with a 3-0 vote. Approvals included Great Americans Day, Vision Carthage Cleanup Day, Community Dumpster Day, Vision Carthage Evening Soiree, the Youth Softball and YMCA soccer field contracts, and acceptance of a $20,000 donation to the municipal golf course.

• Approved February 17, 2026 minutes (3-0)
• Approved Great Americans Day use of Central Park on May 12 (3-0)
• Approved Vision Carthage Cleanup Day use of Central Park on April 18 (3-0)
• Approved Community Dumpster Day use of Fair Acres parking lot on May 3 (3-0)
• Approved Vision Carthage Evening Soiree use of Central Park on June 27 (3-0)
• Approved 2026 Youth Softball contract for Fair Acres fields (3-0)
• Approved 2026 YMCA soccer contract for Fair Acres fields (3-0)
• Accepted $20,000 donation to Carthage Municipal Golf Course (3-0)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

Public Safety Committee

The Carthage Public Safety Committee will consider several community events and equipment requests. Items include Food Truck Friday dates with specific road closures, the monthly "Cruise for a Cause" event on the square, and multiple proposals to spend donation money on police and fire department equipment. The committee will also review a sealed‑bid roof repair contract and a grant application for new CPR machines.

• Food Truck Friday dates (April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11) with road closures on 7th St from Garrison to Main and Lyon St from 7th to Chestnut
• Cruise for a Cause event on the south side of the square, four‑hour setup (4 PM‑10 PM) and event (5 PM‑9 PM) on the 4th Saturday of each month
• Acceptance of sealed‑bid quotes for roof repairs (Chief Martin)
• Use of donation money to purchase rifles for the police department (Chief Dininger)
• Purchase of routers for police vehicles using the Violent Crime Prevention grant (Chief Dininger)

The Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the February 23 meeting and authorized several event schedules, including the Evening Soiree, Food Truck Friday, and Cruise for a Cause. It also approved a grant application to the McCune Brooks Trust for upgraded Zoll Auto Pulse CPR machines, and authorized the purchase of rifles, workout equipment, and vehicle routers using police department funds. All motions were passed without recorded vote tallies.

• Approved 2/23/26 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Evening Soiree dates, times, and alcohol sales (motion passed)
• Approved Food Truck Friday dates, times, road closures, and alcohol sales (motion passed)
• Approved Cruise for a Cause dates, times, and parking arrangement (motion passed)
• Approved grant application to McCune Brooks Trust for Zoll CPR machines (motion passed)
• Approved purchase of two rifles using police donation funds (motion passed)
• Approved purchase of upgraded workout equipment for police gym (motion passed)
• Approved purchase of routers for police vehicles using Violent Crime Prevention grant (motion passed)

General

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will meet to hold a public hearing. The primary focus of the meeting is the discussion of Historic District Guidelines.

• Public hearing to discuss Historic District Guidelines

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will review the February 10, 2026 minutes and the Claims Report. Members will discuss three proposed ordinances regarding public meeting notice locations, city clerk posting requirements, and a statement of charges.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Proposed ordinance to establish public meeting notice posting locations
• Proposed ordinance adding agenda posting requirements to city clerk functions
• Proposed ordinance to add Article III: Statement of Charges to Chapter 2 of the City Code

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the February 9, 2026 minutes and the claims report. It forwarded two ordinance amendments related to posting meeting notices and clerk duties, and it tabled a proposed amendment that would allow termination of a future City Administrator with a two‑thirds council vote. The committee also approved funding for a city clerk's GFO training and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved February 9, 2026 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Forwarded addition to Chapter 2 on posting public‑meeting notices (3-0)
• Forwarded amendment to add Article III Division 6, Sect 2-178 with wording changes (3-0)
• Tabled amendment to add Article III Statement of Charges for City Administrator termination (3-0)
• Approved use of funds for Ms. Deal's GFO training in Kansas City (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will vote on several ordinances, including contracts for the July 4 fireworks display ($25,000) and aquatic‑facility management ($100,000). New business includes two annexation ordinances—one for Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition and another for a 24.23‑acre parcel on East Fir Road—plus a re‑plat approval for Blackberry Briar Subdivision and an engineering services agreement for the 3rd Street Bridge Replacement. The council will also adopt resolutions for a fire‑department donation, a $65,000 youth‑fair grant, a lot‑split at 1005 James Street, and a budget adjustment for park playground lighting.

• C.B. 26‑09: Ordinance authorizing $25,000 fireworks contract with Pyro Spectaculars, Inc.
• C.B. 26‑10: Ordinance authorizing $100,000 contract for aquatic‑facility management with Fair Acres Family Y, Inc.
• C.B. 26‑13: Ordinance annexing a 24.23‑acre parcel on East Fir Road into the city.
• C.B. 26‑15: Ordinance permitting engineering services contract for 3rd Street Bridge Replacement project.
• Resolution 2115: Approval of $65,000 grant from McCune‑Brooks Regional Hospital Trust to Jasper County Youth Fair.

The council accepted a Committee on Claims report totaling $1,716,912.74, allocating amounts to multiple city funds. It also approved three ordinances authorizing contracts for fireworks ($25,000), aquatic facilities ($100,000), and a facilities study with Southwestern Power. Four resolutions were adopted, including a fire‑department donation, a $65,000 youth‑fair grant, an administrative lot split, and a budget adjustment for park playground lights. Two annexation proposals received first‑reading but no action.

• Accepted $1,716,912.74 claims report (7-1)
• Approved Ordinance 26-09 for $25,000 fireworks contract (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-10 for $100,000 aquatic facilities contract (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-11 for facilities study with Southwestern Power (8-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2114 accepting fire‑department donation (8-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2115 allocating $65,000 to Jasper County Youth Fair (8-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2116 granting lot split at 1005 James Street (8-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2117 budget adjustment for park playground lights (8-0)

Public Library Board

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet to discuss budget goals and a budget adjustment for park lighting installation. The committee will also review minutes from the February 9, 2026 meeting.

• Discussion of Budget Goals
• Budget adjustment for Park Lighting Installation

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved four motions, each passing unanimously (4:0). It forwarded the budget goals, a budget adjustment for installing 19 park lighting fixtures, and a proposal for the mayor to enter a cellular services agreement with Verizon to the City Council. The committee also approved the February 9, 2026 minutes and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved February 9, 2026 minutes (4:0)
• Forwarded budget goals to Council (4:0)
• Forwarded budget adjustment for park lighting installation to Council (4:0)
• Forwarded mayor's agreement with Verizon for City cellular services to Council (4:0)
• Adjourned meeting (4:0)

Tree Board

The Tree Board will consider and approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will consider and discuss the Grand Street tree project. It will consider and discuss plans for Arbor Day 2026. The agenda also includes staff reports and other business.

• Approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Discuss Grand Street tree project
• Discuss Arbor Day 2026

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee will consider approval of minutes from the February 3 and February 10, 2026 meetings. It will discuss scheduling the next Dumpster Day on May 3, 2026, from 3:00‑6:00 pm. The committee will consider parking arrangements on Main and Maple between Centennial and Fairlawn. It will also discuss a contract with Zanevan Engineering for the 3" Street Bridge and present the upcoming fiscal year and five‑year capital budget.

• Approval of minutes from February 3 and February 10, 2026 meetings
• Discussion of Dumpster Day scheduled for May 3, 2026, 3:00‑6:00 pm
• Consideration of parking on Main & Maple between Centennial & Fairlawn
• Discussion of contract with Zanevan Engineering for the 3" Street Bridge
• Presentation of the upcoming fiscal year and five‑year capital budget

The Public Works Committee approved moving forward with the contract between the City of Carthage and Zanevan Engineering for the 3rd St. Bridge and will forward it to Council for a bill. The committee chose not to take any formal action on the proposed street parking changes on Main St. and Maple St. during Marion Days. The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. after a motion carried unanimously.

• Approved contract with Zanevan Engineering for 3rd St. Bridge (motion carried, all Ayes)
• Declined to take formal action on Main St. and Maple St. parking change proposal
• Adjourned meeting at 7:00 p.m. (motion carried, all Ayes)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will discuss a replat of the Blackberry Briar Subdivision and hold a public hearing on three requests: a Certificate of Appropriateness to remove a house at 807 Grant, annexation of Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition, and annexation of a 24‑acre parcel on E Fir Road. The meeting also includes routine items such as selecting a secretary and setting the next meeting date.

• Replat of Blackberry Briar Subdivision
• Certificate of Appropriateness to remove house at 807 Grant
• Annexation request for Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition
• Annexation request for a 24‑acre parcel on E Fir Road

The commission amended the February 2 minutes and then tabled a certificate request for 807 Grant. It approved the annexation of Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition and a 24‑acre parcel on E Fir Road. The replat of the Blackberry Briar Subdivision was approved and Torie Bounous was appointed secretary.

• Amended previous meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Tabled certificate of appropriateness request for 807 Grant (motion carried)
• Approved annexation of Lot 13 in Breckenwood 3rd Addition (motion carried)
• Approved annexation of 24‑acre parcel on E Fir Road (motion carried)
• Approved replat of Blackberry Briar Subdivision (motion carried)
• Approved Torie Bounous as commission secretary (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to review a request for a lot split. The board will also consider the minutes from the July 22, 2021 meeting.

• Public hearing for a lot split request at 1055 James

General

The McCune Brooks Regional Hospital Trust will review grant applications from Carthage R-9 and Jasper County Youth, discuss revisions to its investment policy, and set the next meeting date for May 27, 2026.

• Review grant applications for Carthage R-9 and Jasper County Youth
• Discuss revision of investment policy
• Set next meeting date for May 27, 2026
• Approval of December 3rd, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial statement report & review

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider approving contracts for road construction, a July 4 fireworks display, and aquatic facility management, along with a special use permit for a day care center.

• Approve asphalt paving contract for $71.50 per ton
• Authorize fireworks display contract for $25,000
• Authorize aquatic facility management contract for $100,000
• Authorize road easement agreement with Swearingen Family Farms
• Authorize day care center special use permit on River Street

The council passed four ordinances, including a road easement for the Economic Development Park and a residency requirement for council members, each with a 7‑yea, 0‑nay vote. It also approved a $34,990 purchase of AED units, the operation of a food truck in municipal parks, and the use of Central Park for the April 18 Earth Day celebration. Additionally, the council authorized the golf course to begin selling alcohol, passing 6‑aye and 1‑nay.

• Approved Ordinance 26-05 authorizing road easement with Swearingen Family Farms for Economic Development Park (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-03 special use permit for a day‑care center at River St & Airport Dr (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-04 residency requirement for City Council members (7-0)
• Approved purchase of 15 AED units, batteries, electrodes and cases for $34,990 from Joplin Safety NET (motion carried)
• Approved operation of the Tropix food truck in Municipal Park and Fair Acres during spring and summer (motion carried)
• Approved use of Central Park for Earth Day Celebration on April 18, 10‑2 (motion carried)
• Approved golf course to start selling alcohol effective immediately (6 ayes, 1 nay)
• Approved donation of a pool table to the fire department (forwarded to next agenda, motion carried)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee meeting scheduled for February 24, 2026 was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were discussed or decided. The agenda listed old business items such as approval of minutes and a claims report, and new business staff reports, but none were acted upon.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss several equipment and facility needs, including a roof bid for Fire Department Station 1 and an AED purchase. The body will also review the capital budgets for the fire and police departments.

• Traffic flow on Main and Maple between Centennial and Fairlawn
• Handicap signage in front of St. Ann Catholic Church
• Fire Department Station 1 roof bid
• AED purchase using McCune Brooks Hospital Trust Grant proceeds
• Acceptance of the LEST grant

The Public Safety Committee approved several items, including the acceptance of a pool table donation for the fire department, the purchase of AEDs using a $34,990 grant, and the acceptance of a $40,468 Law Enforcement Sales Tax Grant. Motions were also passed to forward traffic‑flow and handicap‑signage concerns to Public Works. The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

• Approved 1/26/26 minutes (motion passed)
• Forwarded Main and Maple traffic‑flow concerns to Public Works (motion passed)
• Forwarded handicap‑signage updates for St. Ann Catholic Church to Public Works (motion passed)
• Accepted pool table donation to the Fire Department (motion passed)
• Approved purchase of AEDs for $34,990.00 from Joplin SafetyNET LLC (motion passed)
• Accepted LEST Grant of $40,468.00 and forwarded to full council (motion passed)
• No motion taken on Fire Station 1 roof bid
• Adjourned meeting at 7:15 p.m. (motion passed)

General

The Civil War Museum Advisory Board will examine City Code Section 2-496 and consider revisions to its 1999 mission statement, including new mission, vision, and scope language. The board will also discuss possible uses for the adjacent interpretive space and the upstairs area of the museum. No old business is pending.

• Review City Code Section 2-496
• Review 1999 mission statement
• Consider updated mission, vision, and scope statements
• Discuss adjacent interpretive and community information space
• Discuss potential uses for the upstairs conference area

The council approved the minutes from the January 5, 2026 meeting by unanimous vote. Several agenda items—including a review of City Code Section 2‑496, the 1999 mission statement, a potential updated mission statement, discussion of an adjacent interpretive space, and potential uses for the upstairs space—were each motioned to table and carried unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Jan. 5, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled review of City Code Section 2‑496 (unanimous)
• Tabled review of 1999 Mission Statement (unanimous)
• Tabled review of Potential Updated Mission Statement (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of Adjacent Interpretive and Community Information Space (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of Potential Uses for the Upstairs Space (unanimous)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will meet to consider several infrastructure bids and two resolutions. The board will also review January disbursements totaling $4,517,714.88.

• Bids for water line replacement at Zapletal Way and Forest Drive
• Bids for Substation No. 4 Switches
• Bids for Fiber Optic Splicing Trailer and CWEP Well Maintenance
• Resolution 2026.03: SWPA Facilities Study and Environmental Documentation Agreement
• Consideration of access road for Economic Development Park

The board approved $4,517,714.88 in January disbursements and the January 2026 financial statements. It honored the retirement of Meter Services Manager Elvis Castor and approved several contracts, including a $688,000 access road for the Economic Development Park, a well‑maintenance agreement with Flynn Drilling Company, a $53,907.83 fiber‑optic splicing trailer, a $114,760 Substation #4 switch package, and a $610,817 water‑line replacement with additional paving costs of $51,228.25. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved January disbursements $4,517,714.88 (unanimous)
• Approved January 2026 financials (unanimous)
• Approved retirement resolution for Elvis Castor (unanimous)
• Awarded Access Road project to Randy Dubry Construction, LLC for $688,000 (unanimous)
• Awarded CWEP Well Maintenance contract to Flynn Drilling Company (unanimous)
• Awarded Fiber Optic Splicing Trailer to Intelli-Core, LLC for $53,907.83 (unanimous)
• Awarded Substation No. 4 Switches to MindCore Technologies, Inc. for $114,760.00 (unanimous)
• Awarded Water Line Replacement to Signature Excavating LLC for $610,817.00 and paving to Blevins Asphalt for $51,228.25 (unanimous)

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review several new items, including a request for proposals for fireworks, a YMCA contract, and plans for Community Earth Day in Central Park. It will also consider rental fee changes for Memorial Hall and alcohol sales at the Golf Course. Staff reports on golf, memorial hall, parks, the Civil War Museum, and tourism will be presented.

• Consider and discuss fireworks RFP
• Consider and discuss YMCA contract
• Consider and discuss Community Earth Day in Central Park
• Consider and discuss Memorial Hall rental fees
• Consider and discuss alcohol sales at the Golf Course

The Public Services Committee approved several items, including the Earth Day event in Central Park, a Tropix food trailer for park use, and a YMCA contract to manage the pool. They also accepted a $25,000 bid from Pyro Spectaculars for the Red, White and Boom 2026 fireworks display, and authorized alcohol sales at the Golf Course starting Feb 25. Additional actions included approving maple‑leaf art installations, forwarding the Lime scooter contract to City Council, and tabling the Memorial Hall rental fee proposal.

• Approved Earth Day event in Central Park (4-0)
• Approved Tropix food trailer operation in parks (4-0)
• Approved YMCA contract to manage pool (4-0)
• Approved $25,000 fireworks bid from Pyro Spectaculars (4-0)
• Approved alcohol sales policy at Golf Course effective Feb 25 (4-0)
• Approved maple‑leaf art installations on city property (4-0)
• Forwarded Lime scooter contract to City Council for further review (4-0)
• Tabled Memorial Hall rental fee revisions until next meeting (4-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council meeting includes routine items such as public comments and reports. Council members will consider several ordinances, including a day‑care permit, a residency requirement for council members, and road easement agreements. A resolution will adjust the Public Safety Fund to pay Axon for tasers and body cameras. The meeting also includes a contract for annual asphalt paving at $71.50 per ton.

• Ordinance C.B. 26-03: special use permit for a Day Care Center at the northeast corner of River Street and Airport Drive
• Ordinance C.B. 26-04: amendment to require council members to reside in the district they represent
• Ordinance C.B. 26-07: contract with Blevins Asphalt Construction Co., Inc. for annual asphalt paving ($71.50 per ton) for FY 2025‑2026
• Resolution 2112: budget adjustment to the Public Safety Fund for payment to Axon for tasers and body cameras
• Ordinance C.B. 26-05: road easement agreement with Swearingen Family Farms, LLC for a road into the Economic Development Park

The council approved the minutes from the January 27 meeting and adopted changes to the Museum Guide job description. It accepted a $2,762,759.88 claims report. The council passed Ordinance 26-02 authorizing a field‑use agreement with Carthage Little League, and adopted Resolution 2112 adjusting the public‑safety budget for tasers and body cameras.

• Approved January 27 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved changes to the Museum Guide job description (motion carried)
• Accepted claims report totaling $2,762,759.88 (motion carried)
• Approved Ordinance 26-02 for Little League field use (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Resolution 2112 budget adjustment to $9,845.52 for police equipment (9 yeas, 0 nays)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The committee will review the January 27, 2026 minutes and the claims report. Members will also consider and discuss the job description for a Museum Guide.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of Museum Guide job description

The committee approved the January 27, 2026 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved the claims report by a 3‑0 vote. The revised job description for the museum guide, now reporting to the Tourism Director, was adopted by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 5:37 p.m. by a unanimous 3‑0 vote.

• Approved January 27, 2026 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Approved museum guide job description changes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:37 p.m. (3-0)

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee will meet on February 10, 2026 at City Hall. The committee’s agenda includes discussion of an easement agreement with Mercy Health Southwest and a separate easement agreement with the Swearingen Family Farms. No other items are listed beyond old business, citizen participation, and staff reports.

• Discuss easement agreement between City of Carthage and Mercy Health Southwest
• Discuss easement agreement between City of Carthage and Swearingen Family Farms

The committee took no action on the Mercy Health Southwest easement and sent it to the City Council under Council Bill 2606. It approved forwarding the Swearingen Family Farms easement to the City Council under Council Bill 2605, with all members voting aye. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• No action taken on Mercy Health Southwest easement; forwarded to City Council (Council Bill 2606)
• Approved forwarding Swearingen Family Farms easement to City Council (Council Bill 2605) – motion carried (All Ayes)
• Adjourned meeting – motion carried (All Ayes)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports, committee updates, and the director's progress report. The agenda includes reports from the budget committee, building committee, and communications, along with the payment of bills.

• Financial Reports
• Director's Progress and Service Report
• Budget Committee Report
• Building Committee Report
• Payment of Bills

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet to discuss a budget adjustment for Police Department donation money and a council bill regarding member ward residency. The body will also review capital requests for Administration and IT.

• Budget Adjustment Resolution for Police Department Donation Money
• Council Member Ward Residency Council Bill
• Administration and IT Capital Requests

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved the minutes from the January meeting. It voted unanimously to forward a police department budget adjustment of $9,845.92 to the full council. It also voted unanimously to forward a council member ward residency bill to the council. The meeting was adjourned at 6:48 p.m.

• Approved Jan 12, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Forwarded police department budget adjustment of $9,845.92 to council (3-0)
• Forwarded council member ward residency bill to council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:48 p.m. (3-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will meet to consider bids for an annual asphalt contract and the Route HH & Chapel Road Sidewalk Project. The body will also discuss a proposed lot split at 1055 James St. and a South Industrial Park easement.

• Bids for annual asphalt contract
• Bids for Route HH & Chapel Road Sidewalk Project
• Proposed lot split at 1055 James St.
• South Industrial Park Easement
• Temporary construction easement from Mercy Health Southwest Missouri/Kansas Communities for $1.00

The Public Works Committee accepted the minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting. It forwarded two easement conveyance requests—one with Mercy Health Southwest and one with Swearingen Family Farm—to the City Council. The committee accepted the Blevins bid for the annual asphalt contract. It tabled the Route HH & Chapel Road sidewalk project pending further discussion with the school district and forwarded a lot‑split request to the Zoning Board of Adjustments.

• Accepted December 1, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Forwarded Mercy Health Southwest easement to City Council (motion carried)
• Forwarded Swearingen Family Farm easement to City Council (motion carried)
• Approved Blevins $71.50/ton asphalt contract (motion carried)
• Tabled Route HH & Chapel Road sidewalk project pending school discussion (motion carried)
• Forwarded 1055 James lot‑split request to Zoning Board of Adjustments (no action taken)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:18 p.m. (motion carried)

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will review and discuss the Grand Street tree project and plans for Arbor Day 2026. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of previous minutes and a citizen participation notice. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Consider and discuss Grand Street tree project
• Consider and discuss Arbor Day 2026

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider three Certificate of Appropriateness applications: exterior signage at 122 Grant St., exterior signage at 119 E 3rd St., and a new parking area for the library at the NE corner of 7th Street and Maple Street. The agenda also includes a staff report, review of minutes from the Jan 5, 2026 meeting, discussion of historic district guidelines, and routine business such as selecting a secretary.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 122 Grant St.
• Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 119 E 3rd St.
• Certificate of Appropriateness for a new library parking area at NE corner of 7th St. and Maple St.
• Discussion of Historic District Guidelines (old business)
• Review of minutes from the Jan 5, 2026 meeting

The committee approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a 21‑space parking lot on the northeast corner of 7th Street and Maple Street. It also approved exterior signage requests for 122 Grant St. and 119 E 3rd St. The commission appointed Donna Anderson as secretary and amended the meeting order to place the secretary selection first.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 122 Grant St. exterior signage (motion carried)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 21‑space library parking lot at 7th & Maple (motion carried)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 119 E 3rd St. (motion carried)
• Amended meeting order to make secretary selection the first item (motion carried)
• Appointed Donna Anderson as commission secretary (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of the January 5, 2026 meeting (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The City Council will discuss amendments to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Operating and Capital Budget. The body will also consider agreements for the use of Fair Acres Sports Complex and the acceptance of two police department grants.

• C.B. 26-01: Ordinance amending the General Revenue Fund and Civic Enhancement Fund budgets
• C.B. 26-02: Agreement with Carthage Little League for use of Fair Acres Sports Complex fields
• Resolution 2109: MoDOT Hazardous Moving Violations Mini Grant for Carthage Police Department
• Resolution 2110: Missouri Department of Public Safety Local Violent Crime Prevention Grant
• Resolution 2111: Declaration and disposition of surplus Police Department vehicles

Council members approved the minutes from the Jan. 13 meeting, the Delta Dental insurance renewal with no increase, and the 2025 city audit. They accepted a $498,685.23 claims report and adopted Ordinance 26‑01, amending the FY 2025‑26 budget, with an 8‑0 vote. The council also approved Resolution 2109 for a MODOT hazardous‑moving‑violations grant (8‑0) and Resolution 2111 to dispose of surplus police vehicles (8‑0), while rejecting Resolution 2110 for a state violent‑crime‑prevention grant (5‑2, 1 abstention). Mayor’s appointments to the Care Leave Committee were confirmed.

• Approved Jan 13 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Delta Dental insurance renewal with no increase (motion carried)
• Approved 2025 audit for year ending June 30 2025 (motion carried)
• Accepted $498,685.23 claims report (8‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 26‑01 amending FY 2025‑26 budget (8‑0)
• Approved Resolution 2109 for MODOT hazardous‑moving‑violations grant (8‑0)
• Approved Resolution 2111 to declare surplus and dispose of police vehicles (8‑0)
• Rejected Resolution 2110 for state violent‑crime‑prevention grant (5‑2, 1 abstain)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will approve the January 13, 2026 minutes and review the claims report. It will consider and discuss the renewal of Delta Dental insurance for City of Carthage employees. An audit presentation by Rebecca Baker of KPM CPA's & Advisors will be given. The meeting also includes staff reports before adjournment.

• Approval of January 13, 2026 minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Consideration of Delta Dental insurance renewal for city employees
• Audit presentation by Rebecca Baker (KPM CPA's & Advisors)
• Staff reports

The committee approved the January 13, 2026 minutes and the claims report, each by a 3-0 vote. They voted to retain Delta Dental as the city’s dental insurance provider, noting 100% employee coverage and no rate increase. The meeting was adjourned at 6:02 PM by a unanimous vote.

• Approved January 13, 2026 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Kept Delta Dental as dental insurance provider (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

General

The Police and Fire Pension Committee will meet to review a quarterly investment report from Phil Michaud of UMB. The meeting also includes a training session.

• Quarterly Report on Investments from Phil Michaud UMB
• Training Session

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a unanimous vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will consider several grant acceptances and a proposal to retire police vehicles and a taxi van. Items include the Tower 2 Tower Run, MoDot HMV mini‑grant, and Violent Crime Prevention grant. The meeting also includes routine approvals of prior minutes and staff reports.

• Consider and discuss decommissioning of police vehicles and one taxi van – Chief Dininger
• Consider and discuss acceptance of the MoDot HMV mini‑grant – Chief Dininger
• Consider and discuss acceptance of the Violent Crime Prevention grant – Chief Dininger
• Consider and discuss Tower 2 Tower Run – Meagan Milliken CWEP
• Approval of 11‑24‑25 meeting minutes

The Public Safety Committee approved the 2026 Tower 2 Tower Run and agreed to forward three grant resolutions to the full council: a Missouri Department of Transportation Hazardous Moving Violations mini‑grant, a Missouri Department of Public Safety Violent Crime Prevention grant, and a resolution to declare certain police vehicles surplus. The committee also forwarded a request for the police department to use its donation account to the Budget Ways & Means meeting. All motions passed.

• Approved 2026 Tower 2 Tower Run (motion passed)
• Forwarded resolution 2109 to accept MoDOT Hazardous Moving Violations mini‑grant (motion passed)
• Forwarded resolution 2110 to accept Missouri Public Safety Violent Crime Prevention grant (motion passed)
• Forwarded resolution 2111 to declare police vehicles surplus and authorize disposition (motion passed)
• Forwarded police department request to use donation account to Budget Ways & Means meeting (motion passed)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning and Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the draft design guidelines. The meeting will also address routine items such as approval of the November 20, 2025 minutes and a staff report, as well as any new or old business. No specific contracts, ordinances, or fee changes are listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing to review and discuss draft design guidelines
• Approval of minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting
• Staff report presentation
• Consideration of new business items
• Consideration of old business items

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee met on Jan. 22, 2026, but no quorum was present. Consequently, no actions, approvals, or determinations were taken. Members discussed possible revisions to the City Code and historic preservation guidelines, noting typographical errors and language clarifications, but deferred any decisions until a quorum is present at a future meeting.

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will convene to consider and discuss a youth baseball contract. The meeting agenda includes approval of previous minutes and a public comment period for residents.

• Approval of November 18, 2025 minutes
• Consider and discuss youth baseball contract
• Public comment period for residents

The Public Services Committee approved the removal of four trees in Municipal Park, with the Jasper County Youth Fair covering removal costs and agreeing to plant two replacement trees for each one removed. It also approved a revised Little League youth baseball agreement that expands the age range and adds a signage‑approval provision, and will forward the contract to City Council. Both motions passed unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved removal of four trees in Municipal Park; fair to cover costs and plant replacements (4-0)
• Approved revised Little League youth baseball contract with age expansion and signage approval; to be forwarded to Council (4-0)
• Approved November 18, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (4-0)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will meet to review December financial reports and disbursements. The board will consider a retirement resolution and changes to salary administration guidelines. Members will also review bids for infrastructure rehabilitation.

• Approval of December disbursements totaling $5,293,073.05
• Bids for Lift Station and Manhole Rehabilitation
• Resolution 2026.01: Retirement Resolution for Harlan Block
• Revisions to Salary Administration Guidelines to add 'Utility Services Manager' position
• Proposal to move Engineering/GIS job family to the Customer Service Department

The board approved the December 2025 meeting minutes and a $5,293,073.05 disbursement for December. It accepted the December 2026 financial statements and honored the retirement of Facility and Fleet Manager Harlan Block. The board also changed the department name to Customer Relations, added a Utility Services Manager position, moved the Engineering/GIS job family, and awarded a $449,857.74 contract to Advanced Rehabilitation Technology for lift‑station and manhole rehabilitation.

• Approved December 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved December disbursements of $5,293,073.05 (unanimous)
• Approved December 2026 financial statements (unanimous)
• Approved retirement resolution for Harlan Block (unanimous)
• Changed "Customer Service" to "Customer Relations", added Utility Services Manager position, and moved Engineering/GIS job family (unanimous)
• Awarded contract to Advanced Rehabilitation Technology for lift station and manhole rehab, $449,857.74 (unanimous)
• Closed portion of meeting for confidential session per statute (unanimous roll‑call)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider an ordinance that changes the Annual Operating and Capital Budget for fiscal year 2025‑2026, affecting the General Revenue Fund and Civic Enhancement Fund. The Council will also vote on a resolution to formally accept an anonymous donation of $10,000. The meeting includes routine items such as minutes approval, reports, public comments, and potential closed‑session discussions on real‑estate or legal matters.

• Ordinance C.B. 26-01 amending the FY 2025‑26 budget (General Revenue Fund and Civic Enhancement Fund)
• Resolution 2108 to accept an anonymous $10,000 donation
• Approval of December 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Report of claims presented against the city with motion to approve
• Potential closed‑session vote on real‑estate or litigation matters

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will first approve the minutes from the December 9, 2025 meeting. It will then review and vote on the Claims Report. The committee will also consider a 2026 Employee Wellness Packet and receive staff reports before adjourning.

• Approval of December 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Consideration of the City of Carthage Employee Wellness Packet for 2026
• Staff reports

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review financial reports and discuss a proposed reserves policy. Other items include the director's progress report, committee updates, and payment of bills. The meeting will conclude with any new business and adjournment.

• Financial reports presentation
• Director's progress and service report
• Committee reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations, etc.)
• Discussion of a new reserves policy
• Payment of library bills

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will approve the October 13, 2025 minutes. It will discuss a budget amendment for fiscal year 2025-2026. The committee will consider accepting an anonymous donation for the Police Department and review the 2026-2027 budget calendar. Staff reports will also be presented.

• Approve October 13, 2025 minutes
• Discuss budget amendment for FY 2025-2026
• Consider acceptance of an anonymous donation for the Police Department
• Discuss the 2026-2027 budget calendar
• Staff reports

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee meeting scheduled for January 6, 2026 was cancelled because no business was submitted. As a result, no items were discussed, decided, or voted on.

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will meet on January 6, 2026 at 4:30 PM at the Parks & Recreation Office, 521 Robert Ellis Young Drive. The board will approve the minutes from the previous meeting. It will consider and discuss the Grand Street tree project. It will also consider and discuss plans for Arbor Day 2026.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Consider and discuss Grand Street tree project
• Consider and discuss Arbor Day 2026

General

The Civil War Museum Advisory Board will approve the December 1, 2025 meeting minutes. Members will review the museum’s asset inventory framework, facility use and exhibit planning, and collection display governance. The board will also hold elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary.

• Approve December 1, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review asset inventory and mission alignment framework
• Discuss facility use and exhibit planning considerations
• Discuss collection and display governance practices
• Elect board officers: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee will select a secretary and review the minutes from the December 4, 2025 meeting. It will discuss the Historic District Guidelines as an old‑business item. No public‑hearing items were submitted.

• Select a Secretary
• Review minutes of previous meeting (Dec 4, 2025)
• Discuss Historic District Guidelines
• Public Hearing – No items