Carthage public meetings in 2025

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Board will approve the minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting and authorize disbursements totaling $4,131,048.61. It will also approve the Fiscal Year 2025 Single Audit Report. Additionally, the board will consider bids for Substation 4 15kV vacuum circuit breakers and for a wastewater bar screen replacement project.

• Approval of FY 2025 Single Audit Report
• Consideration of bids for Substation 4 15kV Vacuum Circuit Breakers
• Consideration of bids for Wastewater Bar Screen Replacement Project
• Approval of disbursements totaling $4,131,048.61
• Approval of Board minutes from November 20, 2025

Public Services Committee

The Carthage Public Services Committee meeting scheduled for December 16, 2025 was cancelled because no business was submitted. No agenda items were discussed, decided, or voted on. The standard procedural items (call to order, old business, citizen participation, new business, staff reports, other business, adjournment) were not addressed.

• Meeting cancelled – no business presented

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee meeting scheduled for December 15, 2025, was cancelled due to a lack of business.

General

The Carthage Public Works Committee will consider approving the minutes from its previous meeting. It will discuss whether to re‑open bidding on the H/Chapel Road sidewalk project. The committee will also review engineering options for a three‑inch St. Bridge replacement. Staff reports from Josiah Bayless and Traci Cox will be presented.

• Approval of minutes from the previous meeting
• Discussion on re‑opening bids for the H/Chapel Road sidewalk project
• Consideration of engineering options for a 3" St. Bridge replacement
• Staff report from Josiah Bayless
• Staff report from Traci Cox

The Public Works Committee approved three actions. They accepted the November 4 minutes, opened a third round of bids for the HH/Chapel Rd. sidewalk project, and selected Zanevan as the engineer for the 3rd St. Bridge project. All motions passed unanimously.

• Accepted November 4, 2025 minutes (all ayes)
• Opened third round of bids for HH/Chapel Rd. sidewalk project (all ayes)
• Approved Zanevan as engineer for 3rd St. Bridge project (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:27 p.m. (all ayes)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review a renovation update and decide whether to approve the Dubry invoice. It will also receive an update on the library parking lot. Additional agenda items include budget committee matters, by‑law discussion, and ADA compliance review.

• Renovation update and approval of Dubry invoice
• Parking lot update
• Budget Committee items
• By‑laws discussion
• ADA compliance review

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will open with a call to order, approve the November 13, 2025 minutes, and review the Claims Report. Citizens may request to speak in advance. New business includes staff reports, discussion of the Golf Course Superintendent job description, and revisions to Section 503 – Holidays Authorized – for exempt positions. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Approval of November 13, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Consider and discuss Golf Course Superintendent job description
• Consider and discuss revisions to Section 503 – Holidays Authorized – for exempt positions
• Staff reports

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the November 13, 2025 minutes and the claims report unanimously. It also approved changes to the Golf Course Superintendent job description with a 4‑0 vote. Revisions to Section 503 holidays for exempt positions were tabled until the January 13 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:42 PM.

• Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Approved Golf Course Superintendent job description changes (4-0)
• Tabled Section 503 holidays revisions until Jan 13 meeting (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider two resolutions that allocate money from the McCune‑Brooks Regional Hospital Trust’s Restricted Trust Fund. Resolution 2106 proposes $35,000 for the Kellogg Lake Nature Center and Preserve, and Resolution 2107 proposes $120,000 for the Carthage Crosslines Ministry. The council will vote on these allocations after hearing public comments and other agenda items.

• Resolution 2106 – $35,000 grant to Kellogg Lake Nature Center and Preserve
• Resolution 2107 – $120,000 grant to Carthage Crosslines Ministry
• Mayor’s appointments: Police Chief, Civil War Museum Board, standing committee members
• Public comments – residents may address the council for up to five minutes each
• Report of claims presented against the city – motion to approve the claims

The council approved the November 25 meeting minutes and appointed Chad Dininger as the new Police Chief effective Dec. 16. It also approved two trust‑fund resolutions distributing $35,000 to Kellogg Lake Nature Center and $120,000 to Carthage Crosslines Ministry. Additional actions included appointing Ed Barlow to the Civil War Museum Board, accepting a $3,997,732.53 claims report, and canceling the Dec. 23 council meeting.

• Approved November 25, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved appointment of Chad Dininger as Police Chief (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Ed Barlow to Civil War Museum Board (motion carried)
• Approved new standing committee appointments adding Juan Topete to Public Works and Public Safety (motion carried)
• Accepted Committee on Claims report covering $3,997,732.53 (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution 2106 – $35,000 to Kellogg Lake Nature Center (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Resolution 2107 – $120,000 to Carthage Crosslines Ministry (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Cancelled December 23 council meeting (motion carried)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on three requests: a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 127 E 3rd St., an annexation of a 15‑acre parcel at 1310 W Fir Road, and a Special Use Permit for a day‑care center at the NE corner of River Street and Airport Drive. The commission will also review and discuss a draft of design guidelines. Routine agenda items include staff reports, approval of minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 127 E 3rd St.
• Annexation request for a 15‑acre parcel at 1310 W Fir Road
• Special Use Permit request for a day‑care center at NE corner of River St. and Airport Dr.
• Review and discussion of draft Design Guidelines
• Approval of minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission approved three items: a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 127 E 3rd St, annexation of a 15‑acre parcel at 1310 W Fir Road, and a Special Use Permit for a day‑care center at the NE corner of River St and Airport Drive. All motions passed, with the day‑care permit vote having one abstention. The meeting then adjourned.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 127 E 3rd St (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 15‑acre parcel at 1310 W Fir Road (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit for day‑care center at NE corner of River St and Airport Drive (all for, 1 abstain)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

General

The Board of Trustees will meet to review financial statements and revisit grant applications. The body will also approve minutes from the October 23, 2025, meeting.

• Review of grant applications for Kellogg Lake and Crosslines
• Review of financial statement report

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will review minutes from the prior meeting and hear public input procedures. The board will consider and discuss the Grand Street tree project and plans for Arbor Day 2026. Staff reports and other business will follow before adjournment.

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

The Tree Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a 3‑0 vote. It also approved the purchase of eight trees for the Grand Street tree project, also by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved purchase of 8 trees for Grand Street project (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Public Works Committee

The December 2, 2025, Public Works Committee meeting was cancelled due to a lack of quorum. No decisions were made on the scheduled agenda items.

• Proposed discussion on re-opening bids for HH/Chapel Road Sidewalk Project
• Proposed consideration of Engineer options for 3" St. Bridge Replacement

General

The Civil War Museum Advisory Board meeting will review old business and citizen participation before moving to new business. The primary item is a discussion of the board's duties and responsibilities. Staff reports will be presented, and the meeting will adjourn.

• Discuss duties and responsibilities of the Civil War Museum Advisory Board

The Civil War Museum Advisory Board met on Dec. 1, 2025 with four members present and two absent. Mayor Flanigan thanked the members and noted Steve Cottrell's resignation. The board reviewed its statutory duties, recent visitor trends, a planned reenactment for June 5‑7, and a historic 1861 newspaper that will be evaluated for preservation. The next meeting is set for Jan. 5, 2026.

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Carthage Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will convene to approve the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting and review the Claims Report. The meeting is scheduled for November 25, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers.

• Approval of November 13, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report

City Council

The City Council will consider an emergency ordinance to authorize a lease purchase agreement with Arvest Bank. The body will also review a resolution to accept a donation for the Carthage Tree Board.

• C.B. 25-72: Emergency Ordinance for Lease Purchase Agreement with Arvest Bank for Golf Course Pump House and Mechanisms replacement
• Resolution 2105: Formal acceptance of a donation from Carthage Water and Electric to the Carthage Tree Board for tree purchases
• Mayor's appointment for Ward 1 Council Member

Council appointed Juan Topete to Ward 1 and approved the removal of the dog‑park fee, making the park free for all. The council authorized road closures for the Run Through the Lights and Smores & Santa events. An emergency ordinance (C.B. 25‑72) was approved, allowing the mayor to lease‑purchase the golf‑course pump house from Arvest Bank (7‑0 vote). The council also adopted a resolution accepting a tree donation from Carthage Water and Electric (7‑0).

• Approved appointment of Juan Topete as Ward 1 Council Member (motion carried)
• Approved removal of dog‑park fee and refund of prorated fees (motion carried)
• Approved road closure Fairview from Wynwood to Grand, 5‑8 pm Dec 16 for Run Through the Lights (motion carried)
• Approved road closure Kellogg Lake Drive/Esterly Drive, 4‑7:30 pm Dec 15 for Smores & Santa (motion carried)
• Approved Emergency Ordinance C.B. 25‑72 authorizing lease‑purchase of golf‑course pump house (7‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2105 accepting tree donation from Carthage Water and Electric (7‑0)
• Approved minutes of the November 13, 2025 Council meeting (motion carried)
• Adjourned the regular session (motion carried)

Public Safety Committee

The Carthage Public Safety Committee will discuss three citizen‑initiated topics: a traffic‑safety campaign called “Run Through the Lights,” a proposal to install a speed bump in the 400 block of North Main Street in front of Butterball, and a community “Hometown Holidays” event. The meeting will also include staff reports from the Fire Department and Police Department. No formal decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Consider and discuss Run Through the Lights – citizen‑presented traffic safety issue
• Consider and discuss installing a speed bump at the 400 block of North Main Street, in front of Butterball
• Consider and discuss Hometown Holidays – community event proposal

The Public Safety Committee accepted the November 20 minutes. It approved temporary closures of several Fairview and Highland streets on Dec. 16 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for the Run Through the Lights event. It also approved closing the south side of Kellogg Lake Drive from Esterly to Jiminy Lane on Dec. 15 from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM for a Hometown Holidays event.

• Approved 10-20-25 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved road closures for Run Through the Lights event on Dec. 16, 6‑8 PM (motion passed)
• Approved south‑side Kellogg Lake Drive closures for Hometown Holidays on Dec. 15, 4‑7:30 PM (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:07 PM (motion passed)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Board will review the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit and consider bids for cybersecurity software and a Substation 4 69kV SF6 Circuit Switcher. Members will also discuss an interconnection policy and two resolutions regarding a 457 Plan amendment and an SRF grant application.

• Approval of October disbursements totaling $5,676,623.25
• Bids for Substation 4 69kV SF6 Circuit Switcher
• Bids for Cyber Security Software Services
• Resolution 2025.06: 457 Plan Amendment
• Resolution 2025.07: SRF Grant Application

The board approved October disbursements of $5,676,623.25 and the October 2025 financials, both unanimously. It accepted the FY 2024‑2025 audit, awarded the Substation 4 69kV SF6 circuit switcher project to S&C c/o Oberlender and the cyber‑security software contract to SevnX LLC, and adopted the Interconnection Policy. The board also passed resolutions to amend the 457(b) retirement plan and to apply for a SRF grant for PFAS sampling.

• Approved $5,676,623.25 disbursements (unanimous)
• Approved October 2025 financials (unanimous)
• Accepted FY 2024‑2025 audit (unanimous)
• Awarded Substation 4 69kV SF6 Circuit Switcher to S&C c/o Oberlender ($108,700) (unanimous)
• Awarded cyber security software services to SevnX LLC ($127,414.20) (unanimous)
• Accepted Interconnection Policy (unanimous)
• Approved 457 Plan Amendment (Resolution 2025.06) (unanimous)
• Approved SRF Grant Application (Resolution 2025.07) (unanimous)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the draft design guidelines. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving the minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting, a staff report, and setting the next meeting for December 4, 2025. No rezoning, contract, or fee actions are listed.

• Public hearing to review and discuss draft design guidelines
• Approval of minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting
• Staff report
• Scheduling of next meeting on December 4, 2025

The committee approved the minutes from the prior meeting after a motion and second, with no opposition. Members reviewed City Code Section 17-56 and a draft of Section 17-50, providing feedback but taking no formal action. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all present voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all present voted in favor)

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will meet to discuss the city's dog park policy. The committee will also review lease purchase bids for pump house repairs.

• Dog Park policy discussion
• Lease purchase bids for pump house repairs

The Public Services Committee voted 3-0 to remove the dog park fee starting Jan 1, 2026. It also voted 3-0 to accept Arvest Bank's $213,330 lease‑purchase bid for pump house repairs. Earlier, the committee approved the October 21, 2025 minutes and adjourned the meeting, each by a 3-0 vote.

• Removed dog park fees effective Jan 1, 2026 (3-0)
• Accepted Arvest Bank lease‑purchase bid for pump house repairs, $213,330 (3-0)
• Approved October 21, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:13 PM (3-0)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The committee will review the October 28, 2025 minutes and the claims report. Members will also consider and discuss revisions to the open meetings and records policy.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of revisions to the open meetings and records policy

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee approved the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report, each by a 4‑0 vote. It also approved revisions to the city’s open meetings and records policy and forwarded them to the council, again by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 5:38 p.m. with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Approved revisions to open meetings and records policy and forwarded to council (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:38 p.m. (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss several contracts, including a new pump station and fire department software. The body is also considering street naming in Municipal Park and lighting installations at two intersections. Two resolutions regarding records policy and pension investment are on the agenda.

• C.B. 25-70: $189,062.77 contract with Nuco for a new pump station at Carthage Municipal Golf Course
• C.B. 25-68: Three-year contract with Brycer, L.P. for "The Compliance Engine" for the Fire Department
• C.B. 25-71: Agreement with Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for lighting at Route 571 & Airport Drive and Route 571 & Elk Street
• C.B. 25-69: Ordinance naming streets within Municipal Park around the Rodeo Arena
• Resolution 2104: Revised Police and Fire Pension Plan Investment Policy Statement

The council approved the October 28 meeting minutes and accepted a $1.92 M claims report. Four ordinances were adopted unanimously: a fire department compliance engine contract, naming streets in the municipal park, a new golf‑course pump station, and ornamental lighting at two intersections. Two resolutions were also adopted unanimously, establishing an Open Meetings policy and updating the Police and Fire Pension investment policy.

• Approved October 28 minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted claims report totaling $1,920,922.57 (8‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑66 for fire compliance engine contract (8‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑67 naming streets in Municipal Park (8‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑68 for $189,062.77 golf‑course pump station (8‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑69 for ornamental lighting at Route 571 intersections (8‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2103 Open Meetings and Records Policy (8‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2104 Police and Fire Pension Investment Policy (8‑0)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will hold a strategic planning work session on November 12‑13, 2025. The board will review its strategic plan, discuss lessons learned, evaluate focus areas, and consider modifications to action plans. Senior staff from the Missouri Public Utility Alliance will give presentations and reports. No formal actions, votes, or utility business will be taken during the session.

• Review of CWEP’s strategic plan, including lessons learned and focus‑area evaluation
• Presentations and reports from Missouri Public Utility Alliance senior staff
• No formal action items or votes scheduled

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board met on November 12‑13, 2025 for a strategic planning work session at the Missouri Public Utility Alliance office. The session reviewed the board’s strategic plan and included presentations, and no votes were taken or actions approved, denied, or tabled.

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review minutes from the last meeting, financial reports, and various committee updates. It will then consider and vote on approving the 2026 building, liability and cyber insurance and on paying outstanding bills. Other agenda items include reports on ADA compliance, by‑laws, and library operations.

• Approve 2026 building, liability, and cyber insurance
• Approve payment of bills
• Review and approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Financial reports presentation
• Reports on ADA compliance and by‑laws

The November 11, 2025 Carthage Public Library Board meeting agenda was listed, but the minutes contain no motions, votes, or other decisions. No approvals, denials, or tablings were documented.

Tree Board

The Tree Board will meet to discuss tree planting at Municipal Park and the Grand Street tree project. The board will also consider a donation and plan for Arbor Day 2026.

• Tree planting in Municipal Park
• Grand Street tree project
• Donation to Carthage Tree Board
• Arbor Day 2026 planning

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee will consider approving minutes and discuss the process for accepting bids on the HH/Chapel Road Sidewalk Project. The committee will also discuss a road widening at Airport and Hazel, a Macon St. box culvert change order, and a Right-of-Way Conveyance for the South Industrial Park.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• HH/Chapel Road Sidewalk Project bid process
• Road widening at Airport and Hazel
• Macon St. Box Culvert Change Order
• Right-of-Way Conveyance for South Industrial Park

The committee accepted the minutes from the October 7, 2025 meeting. It tabled the HH/Chapel Road Sidewalk funding issue until the December meeting. The committee approved the request for a right‑of‑way conveyance to the South Industrial Park and approved two change orders: a $14,000 Macon St. box culvert change order and a $13,000 Sprouls extension and storm‑water box change order.

• Accepted October 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled HH/Chapel Road Sidewalk funding issue until December meeting (unanimous)
• Approved right‑of‑way conveyance for South Industrial Park (unanimous)
• Approved $14,000 change order for Macon St. box culvert (unanimous)
• Approved Sprouls change order for project extension and $13,000 storm‑water box (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:39 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Carthage Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will review a draft of design guidelines and hold a public hearing regarding a Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 127 E 3rd St. The meeting will also include the review of previous meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 127 E 3rd St
• Review and discuss draft of Design Guidelines
• Review minutes from October 6, 2025 meeting

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. A motion to table the request for a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 127 E 3rd St was carried. The committee discussed City Code Section 17-56 and its alignment with historic preservation guidelines, but no action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 6:19 PM.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Certificate of Appropriateness request for 127 E 3rd St (unanimous)

General

The Police and Fire Pension Committee will review a quarterly investment report and consider changes to the investment policy. The main decision is whether to approve the audit covering the period ending December 31, 2024. The meeting also includes a training session and routine acceptance of prior minutes.

• Quarterly Report on Investments – Phil Michaud UMB
• Discuss and approve audit ending December 31, 2024
• Discuss changes to the Investment Policy as recommended by UMB

The committee accepted the minutes from the prior meeting. It approved a change to the investment policy, lowering the maximum equity allocation from 75% to 70%. The audit was approved, and Zeiter was nominated and confirmed as committee chair. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved change to max equities from 75% to 70% (unanimous)
• Approved audit (unanimous)
• Nominated and approved Zeiter as committee chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will approve the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes and review the claims report for October 14 and October 28, 2025. It will also consider and discuss changes to the Police Administrative Coordinator job description. No other decisions are listed.

• Approval of September 23, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of claims report for October 14, 2025 and October 28, 2025
• Consideration of changes to the Police Administrative Coordinator job description

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee approved the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes and the October 14 and 28, 2025 claims report, each by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved updates to the Police Administrative Coordinator job description, adding oversight of the taxi program, and forwarded the changes to the council. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved September 23, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved October 14 and October 28, 2025 claims report (3-0)
• Approved changes to Police Administrative Coordinator job description, adding oversight of taxi program (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 05:34 PM (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider several ordinances authorizing the mayor to enter contracts, including a $189,062.77 purchase and installation of a new pump station at the municipal golf course. Other items include a contract for engineering services on downtown sidewalks, printer lease and service agreements, a fire department compliance engine contract, and naming streets in Municipal Park around the Rodeo Arena. The council will also vote on a grant acceptance for the police department and discuss ornamental lighting at Route 571 intersections.

• Ordinance C.B. 25-70: approve $189,062.77 contract with Nuco for pump station at Carthage Municipal Golf Course
• Ordinance C.B. 25-68: approve contract with Brycer, L.P. for fire department compliance engine (3‑year term)
• Ordinance C.B. 25-69: name streets within Municipal Park around the Rodeo Arena
• Ordinance C.B. 25-71: authorize ornamental lighting at Route 571 & Airport Drive and Route 571 & Elk Street
• Resolution 2102: accept Missouri Department of Public Safety Blue Shield Grant for the police department

The council approved the October 14 meeting minutes and updated the Police Administrative Coordinator job description. It authorized road names for Municipal Park, approved several event‑space and golf‑related bids, and adopted Ordinance 25-63 for a downtown sidewalk contract. The council also accepted the Missouri Department of Public Safety Blue Shield Grant for the police department.

• Approved October 14 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved updated Police Administrative Coordinator job description (motion carried)
• Approved road names for Municipal Park (Council Bill 25-69, motion carried)
• Approved use of Central Park for Candy Cane Hunt on Dec 8 (motion carried)
• Approved Advanced Turf Solutions bid $53,046.73 for golf chemicals 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved Hodges Tree Trimming bid $13,800 for golf‑course tree removal (7-1 vote)
• Approved Ordinance 25-63 authorizing downtown sidewalk improvement contract (8-0 vote)
• Approved Resolution 2102 accepting Blue Shield Grant for police department (8-0 vote)

General

The Board of Trustees will meet to review three grant applications and the year-to-date UMB account update. The board will also review financial statement reports.

• Review of 3 grant applications
• UMB 2025 YTD account update
• Financial statement report and review

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will meet to approve September disbursements and review financial statements. The board will consider bids for equipment and a lighting maintenance agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.

• Approval of September disbursements totaling $6,888,555.71
• Bids for the Sub 4 Power Transformer & Accessories 2025 Project
• Bids for 1/2-Ton and 3/4-Ton Diesel Crew Cab Trucks
• Resolution 2025.05: Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Lighting Maintenance Agreement

The Carthage Water & Electric Board approved the September meeting minutes, disbursements of $6,888,555.71, and the September 2025 financial statements, all unanimously. It awarded the Sub 4 Power Transformer & Accessories 2025 project to Niagara Power Transformer, LLC for $1,507,392.00. The board also approved the purchase of a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado and a 2026 Ford F-250 truck and passed Resolution 2025.05 for lighting maintenance, each with unanimous votes.

• Approved September 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 disbursements of $6,888,555.71 (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 financial statements (unanimous)
• Awarded Sub 4 Power Transformer project to Niagara Power Transformer, LLC for $1,507,392.00 (unanimous)
• Awarded 2026 Chevrolet Silverado to Nashville Automotive for $55,235.00 (unanimous)
• Awarded 2026 Ford F-250 to Nroute Enterprises for $65,920.00 (unanimous)
• Passed Resolution 2025.05 Missouri Highways and Transportation Lighting Maintenance Agreement (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss specific city code and design standards. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Review and discussion of City Code Section 17-56
• Review and discussion of Draft of Design Guidelines

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee met on October 23, 2025. Members discussed City Code Section 17‑56 and its alignment with Historic Preservation Guidelines. The only formal action was a unanimous motion to adjourn the meeting. No approvals, denials, or other substantive decisions were made.

• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous)

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will discuss several requests for proposals (RFPs) for city maintenance and golf course infrastructure. The body will also review operational items including dog park fees and visitor center hours.

• RFP for golf irrigation pump station
• RFP for golf chemicals
• RFP for ash tree removal
• RFP for tree purchase and planting
• Proposed dog park fee

The Public Services Committee approved several items, including road names in Municipal Park, a Route 66 emblem on Kellogg Lake Road, and winter hours for the Boots Court Visitor Center. It also authorized holiday events in Central Park on Dec 1 and Kellogg Lake Park on Dec 15. The committee approved the Nuco Pumps bid for a golf irrigation pump station at $189,062.77, along with other procurement bids, all by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved Municipal Park road names (3‑0)
• Approved Route 66 emblem on Kellogg Lake Road (3‑0)
• Approved Boots Court Visitor Center winter hours (10 a.m.–6 p.m., Nov‑Mar) (3‑0)
• Approved Central Park Candy Cane Hunt Dec 1, 6‑8 p.m. (3‑0)
• Approved Kellogg Lake Park Woodland Winter event Dec 15, 5‑7 p.m. (3‑0)
• Approved Nuco Pumps irrigation pump bid $189,062.77 (3‑0)
• Approved Advanced Turf chemicals bid $43,046.73 (3‑0)
• Approved Hodges Tree Trimming ash‑tree removal bid $13,800 (3‑0)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss and consider closing several streets for the Veterans Day Parade on November 11 at 5:00 pm. They will also review the 2025 Christmas Parade, a Halloween party closure on Poplar Street, revisions to the Administrative Sergeant job description, and acceptance of a Blue Shield Department of Public Safety Program grant.

• Consider and discuss the 2025 Christmas Parade scheduled for December 1
• Consider and discuss closing the 900 block of Poplar Street for a Halloween party
• Discuss revision and updates to the Administrative Sergeant job description
• Consider and discuss acceptance of the Blue Shield Department of Public Safety Program grant
• Consider and discuss road closure for the Veterans Day Parade on Main/Grant streets

The committee approved the requested street closures for the December 1 Christmas Parade, closing intersections on Main, Grant, Chestnut, Lyon and Carthage Square from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm. It also accepted the Blue Shield Department of Public Safety grant to purchase dash‑cams for the police department, and forwarded the revised Administrative Sergeant job description and a contract for Brycer’s compliance software to the full council for approval. Additionally, the committee approved street closures for the November 11 Veterans Day Parade.

• Approved street closures for the 2025 Christmas Parade (4:30 pm‑8:00 pm, Dec 1)
• Accepted Blue Shield Department of Public Safety grant for police dash‑cams
• Forwarded revised Administrative Sergeant job description to CIAC
• Forwarded Brycer compliance‑engine contract to full council
• Approved street closures for the 2025 Veterans Day Parade (Nov 11, 4:30 pm‑end)
• Approved amended minutes from the 9‑22‑25 meeting

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will convene to review financial reports, committee updates, and director progress. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss potential real estate transactions.

• Review of financial reports and director's progress
• Committee reports on building, budget, and community relations
• Closed session to discuss real estate leasing, purchasing, or sale
• Payment of bills and new business items
• Adjournment and closed session

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The committee will meet to approve minutes from the September 23, 2025 meeting. Members are scheduled to review and approve the Claims Report and receive staff reports.

• Approval of September 23, 2025 Minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Staff reports

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee meeting was canceled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were discussed or decided. No votes or approvals occurred.

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider three ordinances in the new business section. One ordinance (C.B. 25-65) would authorize the Mayor to contract SW Missouri Engineering, LLC for engineering and technical services for the Downtown Sidewalk Improvements project. Two additional ordinances (C.B. 25-66 and C.B. 25-67) would authorize a five‑year printer lease and printer service/maintenance agreement with Lakeland Office Systems. The meeting also includes routine items such as public comments, committee reports, and a possible closed‑session vote on legal matters.

• C.B. 25-65 – ordinance to let the Mayor contract SW Missouri Engineering, LLC for engineering and technical services for the Downtown Sidewalk Improvements project
• C.B. 25-66 – ordinance to let the Mayor enter a 5‑year lease for printers with Lakeland Office Systems
• C.B. 25-67 – ordinance to let the Mayor enter a printer service and maintenance agreement with Lakeland Office Systems
• Report of Claims Presented Against the City – motion and second to approve the claims

The council approved the September 23 meeting minutes. In closed session, members voted 7‑0 to retain Matt Gist to represent the city on an employment lawsuit and authorized the mayor to sign the engagement letter. Several motions to close, reopen, and adjourn the meeting were carried unanimously.

• Approved September 23 minutes (motion carried)
• Retained Matt Gist to represent the city on an employment lawsuit; mayor authorized to sign engagement letter (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Closed the meeting for a closed‑session discussion (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Closed the meeting for a closed‑session discussion (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Returned to regular session (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adjourned the regular session (motion carried)
• Adjourned the closed session (7 yeas, 0 nays)

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will discuss a new printer lease agreement and a service contract for printers, both with Lakeland Office Systems. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of the September 8, 2025 minutes and staff reports. No decisions have been made yet.

• Consider printer lease agreement with Lakeland Office Systems
• Consider service agreement for printers with Lakeland Office Systems
• Approval of September 8, 2025 meeting minutes

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved the September 8, 2025 minutes. It voted 3-0 to forward a printer lease agreement with Lakeland Office Systems to the City Council. It also voted 3-0 to forward a service agreement for printers with the same vendor to the Council. The meeting was adjourned at 5:37 PM.

• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Forwarded printer lease agreement with Lakeland Office Systems to Council (3-0)
• Forwarded printer service agreement with Lakeland Office Systems to Council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:37 PM (3-0)

Tree Board

The Tree Board will meet to discuss the Grand Street tree project and plans for Arbor Day 2026. The board will also consider the minutes from the previous meeting.

• Grand Street tree project discussion
• Arbor Day 2026 planning

The Tree Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a 4‑0 vote. No action was taken on the Grand Street tree project or the 2026 Arbor Day event. The board then adjourned the meeting with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (4-0)
• No action taken on Grand Street tree project discussion
• No action taken on Arbor Day 2026 planning discussion
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will review and vote on a contract with Cochran Engineering to carry out sidewalk improvements in downtown Carthage. The committee will also discuss creating a handicapped parking space at the corner of 4th and Lyon. Minutes from the previous meeting will be considered, and staff reports will be heard.

• Consider contract with Cochran Engineering for Downtown Sidewalk Improvements
• Discuss adding a handicapped parking space at 4th & Lyon
• Approval of minutes from the previous meeting

The Public Works Committee accepted the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the contract with Cochran Engineering for the Sidewalk Expansion project and will forward it to City Council for an ordinance. The committee also approved the creation of a handicapped parking space at Lyon and 4th Street. The meeting was adjourned.

• Accepted September 2, 2025 minutes (All Ayes)
• Approved Cochran Engineering sidewalk contract; send to City Council (All Ayes)
• Approved handicapped parking space at Lyon and 4th St (All Ayes)
• Adjourned meeting (All Ayes)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 319 S Main. The commission will also review and discuss a draft of design guidelines. The meeting includes routine items such as new business, old business, and scheduling the next meeting for October 16, 2025.

• Public hearing: request for Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 319 S Main
• Review and discussion of draft design guidelines

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss the Historic District Design Guidelines project. The agenda also includes routine items such as a public hearing, staff report, minutes of the previous meeting, and new business. The commission will adjourn after these items.

• Special meeting to discuss Historic District Design Guidelines project
• Public hearing
• Staff report
• Minutes of previous meeting
• New business

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee unanimously approved the prior meeting's minutes. It also approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 319 S Main, with no opposition. No decisions were made on the historic district design guidelines discussion. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 PM.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all present voted in favor)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior signage at 319 S Main (all present voted in favor)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to review the claims report and approve previous meeting minutes. The committee is scheduled to discuss health insurance renewal rates.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of health insurance renewal rates

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the September 9, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report, each by a unanimous 5‑0 vote. It also approved the city’s health insurance renewal rates, noting a 0% increase for the next calendar year, and forwarded the rates to the council, again by a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 9, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved claims report (5-0)
• Approved health insurance renewal rates (0% increase) and forwarded to council (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will review several ordinances regarding personnel policies, a water delineation study for the South Economic Development Park, and a donation to the Fire Department. The agenda also includes a closed session to discuss potential real estate transactions.

• C.B. 25-62: Water Delineation Study agreement with Terra Foundation for $5,500.00
• C.B. 25-63: Ordinance amending the Fire Sales Tax Fund budget
• Resolution 2101: Accepting a $2,000.00 donation from Backyard Discovery to the Fire Department
• C.B. 25-44 and 25-60: Ordinances amending the Personnel Policy Manual
• C.B. 25-61: Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to apply for federal transit assistance

The City Council approved the September 9 meeting minutes and a 0% increase for the Anthem health insurance renewal. It authorized several event-related road closures and park uses, accepted a claims report totaling $5,041,242.36, and passed Ordinance 25-57 (employment records policy) and Ordinance 25-58 (personnel policy manual) with votes of 9‑1 and 10‑0 respectively.

• Approved September 9 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Anthem insurance renewal with 0% increase (motion carried)
• Approved closure of George Phelps Blvd Oct. 17, 5:30‑7:30 pm (motion carried)
• Approved closure of south side of the square Oct. 4, 4:30‑7:30 pm (motion carried)
• Accepted claims report totaling $5,041,242.36 (motion carried)
• Approved Ordinance 25-57, adding Section 208 to Personnel Policy Manual (9 yeas, 1 nay)
• Approved Ordinance 25-58 amending the Personnel Policy Manual (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved use of Central Park Oct. 11 for Bikes, BBQ, Toy Run (motion carried)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss a federal grant for violent crime prevention and a donation to the Fire Department. The body will also consider two temporary street closures for community events and handicap parking on Lyon Street.

• Acceptance of a $25,000 Department of Public Safety grant for violent crime prevention
• FD donation of $2,000 from Backyard Discovery
• Closure of George E. Phelps from Grand Ave to Fulton on October 17 for the Maple Leaf 5K
• Closure of the south side of the square on October 4 for the Sheriff’s Office Night Under the Stars cruise-in
• Handicap parking on Lyon Street at the corner of 4th & Lyon

The committee approved the minutes from the August 18 meeting. It forwarded a handicap‑parking request to Public Works, approved road closures for the Maple Leaf 5K race, and approved the square closure for the Night Under the Stars fundraiser. It also forwarded a $2,000 donation resolution to Council and took no action on a $25,000 violent‑crime grant.

• Approved 8/18/2025 meeting minutes (motion passes)
• Forwarded handicap‑parking request at 4th & Lyon to Public Works (motion passes)
• Approved road closures for Maple Leaf 5K race on Oct 17, 5:30‑7:30 pm (motion passes)
• Forwarded Backyard Discovery $2,000 donation resolution to Council (motion passes)
• No action taken on $25,000 Department of Public Safety violent‑crime grant (discussion only)
• Approved closure of south side of the square for Night Under the Stars on Oct 4, 4:30‑7:30 pm (motion passes)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Board will approve the August 21 minutes and a disbursement of $4,721,926.56. It will review the August financial statement. The board will discuss and decide on bids for a recloser replacement project, interfacing software, Ford Explorers, a ¾‑ton 4x4 crew cab truck, and health‑insurance proposals.

• Consideration of bids for the Sub 3-1 Recloser Replacement project
• Recommendation to purchase Interfacing Software
• Consideration of bids for Ford Explorers
• Consideration of bids for ¾‑ton 4x4 Crew Cab Truck
• Consideration of Health Insurance proposals

The board unanimously approved the August 2025 financials and disbursements of $4,721,926.56. It awarded the Sub 3‑1 recloser replacement contract to B&L Electric for $203,534.36, approved purchase of Survalent interfacing software for $70,390, and authorized vehicle purchases totaling $146,445. It also accepted Cox Health’s plan with a 6.5% premium increase.

• Approved August 2025 financials (unanimous)
• Approved disbursements of $4,721,926.56 (unanimous)
• Awarded Sub 3‑1 Recloser Replacement to B&L Electric for $203,534.36 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Survalent interfacing software for $70,390 (unanimous)
• Awarded 2026 Ford Explorer to Joe Machens Ford for $45,193 (unanimous)
• Awarded 2026 Ford Explorer to Rush Truck Centers for $45,335 (unanimous)
• Awarded 2026 Ford F‑250 to Rush Truck Centers for $55,917 (unanimous)
• Accepted Cox Health insurance plan with 6.5% premium increase (unanimous)

Public Services Committee

The Carthage Public Services Committee will hear public comments on proposed street names in Municipal Park. It will discuss several new items, including a Bikes, BBQ, and Toy Run event in Central Park, a grant application for the Carthage Saddle Club, permission for a food trailer at the Maple Leaf Rodeo, a Soles 4 Paws charity run, and liquor sales at the city golf course. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Public comment period for proposed street names in Municipal Park
• Consider Bikes, BBQ, and Toy Run event in Central Park
• Consider grant application for Carthage Saddle Club
• Consider permission for food trailer during Maple Leaf Rodeo event
• Consider Golf Course liquor sales

The committee approved several items, including use of Central Park for the Bikes, BBQ, and Toy Run event on October 11, a grant for the Carthage Saddle Club, and a food trailer at the Maple Leaf Rodeo. It also approved a date change for the Soles 4 Paws charity run and authorized liquor sales at the golf course Pro Shop pending a summary of policies. All motions passed unanimously with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved use of Central Park for Bikes, BBQ, and Toy Run event (4:0)
• Approved grant application for Carthage Saddle Club arena improvements (4:0)
• Approved food trailer use at Maple Leaf Rodeo in Municipal Park (4:0)
• Approved date change for Soles 4 Paws charity run to Nov 23 (4:0)
• Approved liquor sales at golf course Pro Shop pending policy summary (4:0)
• Approved minutes from August 18 Public Services Committee meeting (4:0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (4:0)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will hold a closed session and vote to close a portion of the meeting pursuant to RSMo 610.021.3. The remainder of the agenda includes routine items such as financial reports, the director's progress report, various committee reports, and payment of bills.

• Vote to close a portion of the meeting under RSMo 610.021.3
• Financial Reports
• Director's Progress and Service Report
• Committee Reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations, By-Laws, Library Gardens, ADA Compliance, Communications, Compensation/Wages)
• Payment of Bills

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The committee will meet to approve minutes from August 26, 2025, and review the claims report. The agenda also includes time for staff reports and citizen participation.

• Approval of August 26, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the Claims Report

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the August 26, 2025 meeting minutes with a 3‑0 vote. It also approved the claims report by a 3‑0 vote. Staff reported auditors will arrive the week of October 13, and the meeting was adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved August 26, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will discuss several ordinance proposals, including changes to personnel policies and the city budget. A key item is an ordinance authorizing the mayor to seek and contract federal assistance for transit projects with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission. The council will also vote on a $5,500 water delineation study contract with Terra Foundation for the South Economic Development Park.

• C.B. 25-61 – authorize mayor to apply for federal transit grants and sign related contracts
• C.B. 25-62 – approve $5,500 contract with Terra Foundation for water study on 246‑acre park
• C.B. 25-63 – amend FY 2024‑2025 budget for the Fire Sales Tax Fund
• C.B. 25-44 – add Employment Records Policy to the Personnel Policy Manual
• C.B. 25-59 – amend Drug Free Workplace section of Personnel Policy Manual

The council approved the August 26, 2025 meeting minutes. They adopted Ordinance 25-56 amending the City’s Drug-Free Workplace policy with a 9‑0 vote. The council also accepted a $925,339.05 claims report, approved the mayor’s appointment of Genaro Cifuentes to two committees, re‑opened bids on the HH & Chapel Road Sidewalk Project, and accepted a $5,500 Water Delineation Study contract.

• Approved August 26, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-56 amending Drug-Free Workplace policy (9 yeas, 0 nays)
• Accepted $925,339.05 claims report (motion carried)
• Approved Mayor’s appointment of Genaro Cifuentes to Insurance/Audits and Claims Committee and Public Safety Committee (motion carried)
• Re‑opened bids on HH & Chapel Road Sidewalk Project
• Accepted $5,500 bid from Terra Foundation for Water Delineation Study
• Increased copy prices to $3.50 black‑white and $4.00 color
• Scheduled asphalt work for Hazel Street road widening on September 15

Budget Ways & Means

The Carthage Budget Ways & Means Committee will consider a budget amendment for fiscal year 2024/2025. It will also review a taxi grant application and proposed changes to the Carthage Redevelopment Corporation Ordinance. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of prior minutes and staff reports.

• Consider and discuss Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2024/2025
• Consider and discuss Taxi Grant Application
• Consider and discuss changes to Chapter 17 Article VII relating to the Carthage Redevelopment Corporation Ordinance
• Approval of July 22, 2025 minutes

The committee approved the July 22, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It voted 4-0 to forward the FY 2024/2025 budget amendment for the fire‑truck lease to the full council. It also voted 4-0 to forward the FY 25/26 Taxi Grant application and the proposed changes to Chapter 17 Article VII of the Carthage Redevelopment Corporation Ordinance to the council. The meeting was adjourned at 5:51 PM.

• Approved July 22, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Forward FY 2024/2025 budget amendment to Council (4-0)
• Forward FY 25/26 Taxi Grant application to Council (4-0)
• Forward changes to Chapter 17 Article VII Redevelopment Ordinance to Council (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will meet to review a middle market housing ordinance. The body will also discuss design guidelines and determine future meeting dates.

• Review of Middle Market Housing Ordinance
• Review and discussion of Draft of Design Guidelines
• Selection of a Secretary

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the prior meeting. It changed future regular meetings from the first Thursday to the first Monday of each month. The committee postponed discussion of middle‑market housing until January 2026. It also set a September 24, 2025 meeting to introduce the draft Historic District Design Guidelines and approved bimonthly meetings beginning in October.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Changed regular meeting day to first Monday of each month (unanimously)
• Postponed middle‑market housing discussion until Jan 2026 (unanimously)
• Scheduled Sept 24, 2025 meeting to introduce draft Historic District Design Guidelines (unanimously)
• Approved bimonthly meetings to consider Historic District Design Guidelines, starting Oct 2025 (unanimously)

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will meet to discuss the Grand Street tree project and plans for Arbor Day 2026. The meeting will also cover old business and staff reports.

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

The board approved the previous meeting minutes with a 4-0 vote. No actions were taken on the Grand Street tree project or Arbor Day 2026 discussions. The board then adjourned the meeting with a 4-0 vote.

• Approved previous minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will consider a contractor for the TAP Project sidewalk along HH and Chapel Road. They will also discuss water delineation studies and wetland pricing for the Economic Development Park, and a possible price increase for office copy services. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of previous minutes and staff reports.

• Contractor selection for TAP Project sidewalk on HH & Chapel Rd.
• Water delineation studies and wetland pricing for Economic Development Park
• Possible price increase on 24x36" office copies

The committee accepted the August 5 minutes, rejected the Hessling sidewalk bid and ordered a new bidding process, approved a $5,500 bid from Terra Foundation for the Water Delineation Study, and approved a price increase for 24 × 36" copies. The meeting was adjourned at 6:11 p.m.

• Accepted August 5 minutes (all ayes)
• Rejected Hessling HH & Chapel Rd. Sidewalk Project bid, re‑open bidding (all ayes)
• Approved Terra Foundation $5,500 bid for Water Delineation Study (all ayes)
• Approved copy price increase to $3.50 B&W and $4.00 color per page (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:11 p.m. (all ayes)

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 consider and discuss updates to the Employee Records and Whistleblower policies.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of Employee Records Policy
• Discussion of Whistleblower policy changes

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the August 12, 2025 minutes and the claims report, each by a 4‑0 vote. It then moved to forward both the revised employee records policy and the updated whistleblower policy to the City Council for approval, also by unanimous votes. Staff reported that the 2026 budget has been installed and hiring committees for the Parks and Recreation Director and Police Chief are ongoing. The meeting was adjourned at 5:53 PM.

• Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Forwarded employee records policy to city council for approval (4-0)
• Forwarded whistleblower policy changes to city council for approval (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the property tax rates the city proposes to set. Council members will consider several ordinances, including budget amendments, a property tax levy, a water‑storage subagreement, and an opioid‑settlement agreement. Two resolutions will be voted on: acceptance of a donated police trailer and support for the Maple Leaf Festival.

• C.B. 25-51 – Ordinance amending the FY 2025‑2026 budget for General Fund, Use Tax Fund, and Public Facilities Bond Fund
• C.B. 25-52 – Ordinance levying general property taxes for 2025 and fixing the rates
• C.B. 25-56 – Ordinance authorizing a memorandum of understanding with Jasper County on opioid settlement funds for jail treatment
• Resolution 2099 – Acceptance of an 8' × 5' metal utility trailer donated to the Police Department
• Resolution 2100 – Authorization of city support for programs of the 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival

The City Council voted 8-0 to adopt eight ordinances covering the FY 2025‑26 budget, property tax rates, a water‑storage sub‑agreement, and the use of opioid settlement funds for a jail treatment program. The Council also accepted a $2,404,481.42 claims report, approved the Mayor’s appointment of Genaro Cifuentes to Ward 2, and carried several committee motions on disc‑golf redesign, senior shamble fees, and park‑site usage.

• Approved disc golf course redesign and phased installation (motion carried)
• Approved senior shamble schedule and fee split between green, cart, and pro‑shop revenues (motion carried)
• Approved use of Fair Acres parking lot for dumpsters on Oct 4 (motion carried)
• Approved use of Central Park on Oct 11 for volunteer organization (motion carried)
• Adopted eight ordinances (C.B. 25‑51 to 25‑58) with 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Mayor’s appointment of Genaro Cifuentes to Ward 2 (motion carried)
• Accepted claims report totaling $2,404,481.42 (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of the August 12, 2025 Council meeting (motion carried)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Board will approve July meeting minutes and a $6,215,602.05 disbursement. It will discuss a new mutual‑aid resolution, adopt a cybersecurity policy, and consider extensions for a mini excavator lease and lift‑station upgrades.

• Resolution 2025.03: Mutual Aid for multiple Cities
• Adoption of the CWEP Cybersecurity Policy
• Recommendation to extend the Mini Excavator Lease
• Recommendation to proceed with Lift Station Upgrades
• Approval of disbursements totaling $6,215,602.05

The board approved a $334,539.31 electrical upgrade for four lift stations. It also adopted a cybersecurity policy, extended a mini‑excavator lease for three years, and authorized new signatories for CWEP financial accounts. All actions passed unanimously, with one abstention on the signatory resolution.

• Approved $334,539.31 lift‑station electrical upgrades (unanimous)
• Adopted CWEP Cybersecurity Policy (unanimous)
• Extended mini‑excavator lease 3 years with $3,275 warranty (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025.04 authorizing signatories (unanimous, Schmidt abstained)
• Approved Resolution recognizing CWEP linemen for mutual aid (unanimous)
• Approved July disbursements of $6,215,602.05 (unanimous)
• Approved June and July 2025 financial statements (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 17, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Public Services Committee

The Carthage Public Services Committee will consider and discuss a series of community projects and events. Items include a disc golf course at Kellogg Lake Park, street naming around the fairground at Municipal Park, and several grant and festival proposals. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the items are for discussion only.

• Disc golf course plans at Kellogg Lake Park
• Naming of streets around the fairground at Municipal Park
• Jasper County Youth Fair grant
• Carthage Area United Way golf tournament
• City Clean-up Day and Dumpster Days

The Public Services Committee approved a phased redesign of the Kellogg Lake Park disc‑golf course. It also adopted new street names around the Municipal Park fairgrounds and authorized the Jasper County Youth Fair to pursue a grant for poultry‑barn improvements. Additional approvals included a food‑truck at the United Way golf tournament, a revenue‑split plan for a monthly senior shamble tournament, and locations for Dumpster Day, Clean‑Up Day, and the Maple Leaf Festival.

• Approved disc golf course redesign at Kellogg Lake Park, phased installation (4-0)
• Approved naming of streets around Municipal Park fairgrounds and forwarded to Council (4-0)
• Approved Jasper County Youth Fair to seek grant for poultry barn improvements (4-0)
• Approved Scoop It food truck at United Way Golf Tournament on Sep 20 (4-0)
• Approved revenue split for Senior Shamble Golf Tournament registration fees (4-0)
• Approved use of Fair Acres for Dumpster Day on Oct 4 (4-0)
• Approved use of Central Park for Clean Up Day on Oct 11 (4-0)
• Approved Maple Leaf Festival park usage requests (7 items) to be forwarded to Council (4-0)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss the 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival and a utility trailer donation to the Police Department. The committee will also hear from a citizen regarding community cleanup efforts.

• Discussion of 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival
• Proposed donation of an 8'x5' metal utility trailer from M&M wrecker to the Police Department
• Citizen discussion on Dumpster Day, Restoration Carthage, and Clean up day

The Public Safety Committee approved the street closures, security support, vendor permissions, and signage requests for the 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival. The committee also accepted a donated metal utility trailer for the police department, moved the next meeting to September 22, approved the amended July 21 minutes, and adjourned.

• Approved street closures, police security, vendor permissions and signage for Maple Leaf Festival (motion passes)
• Accepted donation of an 8'x5' metal utility trailer for the Police Department (motion passes)
• Approved amended July 21, 2025 minutes (motion passes)
• Moved next Public Safety meeting to September 22, 2025 at 5:30 pm (motion passes)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion passes)

General

The Board of Trustees will meet to elect the President and Vice President for fiscal year 2025-2026. The board will also review a financial statement report and discuss a UMB contract.

• Election of FY 2025-2026 President and Vice President
• Discussion of UMB Contract
• Financial statement report and review

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will receive its financial reports, hear the director's progress and service report, and get updates on the Steadley Family Legacy Center. Additional items include ADA compliance, library gardens, and payment of bills.

• Financial reports presentation
• Director's progress and service report
• ADA compliance update
• Library gardens discussion
• Payment of outstanding bills

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The committee will discuss updates to the Employee Records, Whistleblower, and drug and alcohol policies. Members will also consider a Conflict of Interest Council Bill and review the claims report.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of Employee Records Policy
• Discussion of Whistleblower Policy changes
• Consideration of Conflict of Interest Council Bill
• Discussion of drug and alcohol policy

The committee approved the July 22, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report. It postponed the employee records policy and the whistleblower policy to the next meeting. It forwarded the Conflict of Interest Council Bill to the full council and approved the revised drug and alcohol policy, sending both to council for action. The meeting was adjourned at 6:29 p.m.

• Approved July 22, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved claims report (4-0)
• Postponed employee records policy until next meeting (4-0)
• Postponed whistleblower policy until next meeting (4-0)
• Forwarded Conflict of Interest Council Bill to council (4-0)
• Approved drug and alcohol policy and forwarded to council (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:29 p.m. (4-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider several ordinances, including a tax levy on real‑estate property for 2025. It will also act on budget amendments for fiscal years 2024‑25 and 2025‑26, and approve contracts for financial software and water storage. Additional items include a grant for a rodeo arena and a memorandum on opioid settlement funds.

• C.B. 25-48 – Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to contract with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for an annual financial‑software subscription
• C.B. 25-50 – Ordinance amending the FY 2024‑25 Annual Operating and Capital Budget for multiple funds
• C.B. 25-51 – Ordinance amending the FY 2025‑26 Annual Operating and Capital Budget for carryover projects
• C.B. 25-52 – Ordinance levying general taxes on real‑estate property in Carthage for the year 2025
• Resolution 2096 – Authorizes the Mayor to accept a $25,000 grant from the Steadley Trust for rodeo arena improvements

The council approved the July 22, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted a $3,198,145.34 claims report. It unanimously passed Ordinance 25‑46 authorizing a contract with Tyler Technologies for financial software and Ordinance 25‑47 amending the FY 2024‑25 operating and capital budget. The mayor’s appointments were confirmed, and two resolutions were adopted: a $25,000 grant for rodeo arena improvements and a purchase of a used side‑arm tractor using reallocated street‑department funds.

• Approved July 22, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted claims report totaling $3,198,145.34 (motion carried)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑46 for Tyler Technologies software contract (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑47 amending FY 2024‑25 budget (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved mayor’s appointments as presented (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution 2096 granting $25,000 from Steadley Trust for rodeo arena (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Resolution 2097 to purchase used John Deere side‑arm tractor (8 yeas, 0 nays)

Budget Ways & Means

The committee will consider several financial matters, including the 2025 tax levy and budget amendments for carry-over projects. Members will also discuss a water storage agreement with JMUC and financing for electric system projects.

• 2025 Tax Levy
• Budget Amendment for FY 2025-2026 Carry-Over Projects
• Grant from the K.D.& M.L Steadley Trust
• Budget Adjustment Resolution for a side-arm mower
• Water storage agreement with JMUC

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission will review ongoing items, welcome new members, and discuss the election of officers. No public hearing items are scheduled. The meeting is otherwise procedural with no substantive business items.

• Chair to review ongoing items and welcome new members
• Discuss election of officers
• Public Hearing: No items

The provided minutes consist of coded entries without readable descriptions of actions, votes, or outcomes. No concrete decisions, approvals, denials, or tablings can be identified from the source text.

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will review and discuss candidates for new board members. It will also discuss plans for Arbor Day in 2026. No other decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Consider and discuss new Tree Board members
• Consider and discuss Arbor Day 2026

The board voted 3-0 to accept the previous meeting minutes. Later, the board voted 3-0 to adjourn the meeting at 5:18 PM. No other actions were taken on new business or staff reports.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will meet to discuss the TAP Project HH and Chapel Rd. sidewalk. Members will also consider reallocating funds from a proposed Street Dept. storage barn to purchase a used tractor from Carthage Special Road Dist.

• TAP Project HH & Chapel Rd. Sidewalk discussion
• Proposed reallocation of storage barn funds for a used tractor from Carthage Special Road Dist.

The Public Works Committee accepted the June 3 minutes. It tabled the HH & Chapel Rd. sidewalk contract decision until the September 24 meeting. It voted to forward a $25,000 tractor purchase request to the Budget Ways and Means Committee. The meeting was adjourned at 6:29 p.m.

• Accepted June 3 minutes (all ayes)
• Tabled HH & Chapel Rd. sidewalk decision until Sep 24 (all ayes)
• Forwarded $25,000 tractor purchase request to Budget Ways & Means Committee (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:29 p.m. (all ayes)

General

The Carthage Personnel Appeals Board will meet on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 6 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting is for a personnel hearing conducted under City Charter Section 6.8.

• Personnel hearing (specific case details not provided in agenda)

The Carthage Personnel Appeals Board met on July 31, 2025, heard presentations from the City and Ms. Almandinger, and then deliberated. By unanimous vote, the Board upheld the City’s decision to terminate Ms. Almandinger. The Board also approved a letter announcing its decision to be sent to Ms. Almandinger.

• Uphold termination of Abi Almandinger (unanimous vote)
• Approve letter announcing Board’s decision to be presented to Abi Almandinger (unanimous vote)

General

The Police and Fire Pension Committee will meet to discuss investment reports and policy changes. The body will review the 2025 Actuarial Valuation Report and receive an update on lump sum payout options.

• Quarterly Report on Investments
• Proposed changes to the Investment Policy
• 2025 Actuarial Valuation Report
• Update on the lump sum payout option

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will consider several items, including a taxi grant agreement and adjustments to the 2024‑2025 city budget. They will discuss a budget adjustment resolution and a budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2024‑2025. The committee will also review proposed changes to the City Code affecting the Powers Museum Board, Police Personnel Administration Board, and Tree Board, as well as an amendment to Personnel Policy Manual section 702(05).

• Consider and discuss taxi grant agreement
• Consider and discuss budget adjustment resolution for Fiscal Year 2024‑2025
• Consider and discuss budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2024‑2025
• Consider and discuss changes to the City Code for the Powers Museum Board, Police Personnel Administration Board, and Tree Board
• Consider and discuss changes to the Personnel Policy Manual to amend section 702(05) – Personnel Board Established

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved the taxi grant agreement and sent it to the Council. It also approved a budget adjustment resolution for FY 2024‑2025 that transfers funds for the I‑49 project, a fire‑truck lease purchase, and moves half of the fire sales tax to the general fund. A related budget amendment covering supplemental adjustments and an emergency taxi air‑conditioning purchase was approved. Changes to the City Code for several boards and to the Personnel Policy Manual were approved, all to be forwarded to Council.

• Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved taxi grant agreement and forward to Council (3-0)
• Approved FY 2024‑2025 budget adjustment resolution and forward to Council (3-0)
• Approved FY 2024‑2025 budget amendment and forward to Council (3-0)
• Approved changes to City Code for Powers Museum, Police Personnel Administration, and Tree Boards and forward to Council (3-0)
• Approved changes to Personnel Policy Manual section 702(05) and forward to Council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will review and approve the June 24, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report. It will consider changes to the Employee Records Policy, the Whistlebower Protection Policy, an employee health fair, a software agreement with Tyler Technologies, and revisions to the Master Patrol Officer job description. No final decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Approval of June 24, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Consider changes to Employee Records Policy
• Consider agreement with Tyler Technologies for upgraded financial software
• Consider changes to Master Patrol Officer job description

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the June 24, 2025 minutes and two recent claims reports. It authorized $135 per employee for the health fair, forwarded the Tyler Technologies software upgrade agreement to the council, and approved changes to the Master Patrol Officer job description. The meeting was adjourned at 6:17 PM.

• Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report from July 8 (3-0)
• Approved claims report from July 22 (3-0)
• Approved $135 per employee for health fair (3-0)
• Approved forwarding Tyler Technologies upgrade agreement to council (3-0)
• Approved changes to Master Patrol Officer job description (3-0)
• Approved adjournment at 6:17 PM (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider approving contracts for park land use and landscaping, a financial software subscription, and a supplemental budget adjustment for the Fire Sales Tax Fund. The body will also hear public comments and conduct executive session.

• Contract with Scott's Landscape and Excavation for Fairlawn Roundabout landscaping ($25,170.00)
• Contract with Tyler Technologies for financial software subscription
• Supplemental budget adjustment for Fire Sales Tax Fund
• Resolution supporting the 46th Annual Marian Days Celebration
• Ordinance authorizing federal grant applications for transit projects

The council approved several ordinances, including the use of Kiwanis Kiddieland in Municipal Park (Ordinance 25‑43) and Fairlawn Roundabout landscaping (Ordinance 25‑44), both by an 8‑yea vote. They also appointed Elizabeth Kang as the Ward 4 council member and Josiah Bayless as Public Works Director, motions that carried. The council passed an emergency ordinance (Ordinance 25‑45) authorizing the mayor to seek federal transit assistance, approved 9‑0. Additional actions included approving $135 per employee lab work for a health fair, upgrading financial software, authorizing road closures for Marian Days, and accepting a $4,457,445.05 claims report.

• Approved Kiwanis Kiddieland use (Ordinance 25‑43) – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Fairlawn Roundabout landscaping (Ordinance 25‑44) – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Ward 4 Council Member appointment (Elizabeth Kang) – motion carried
• Approved emergency ordinance for federal transit funding (Ordinance 25‑45) – 9 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved $135 per employee lab work for health fair – motion carried
• Approved upgrade to city financial software (Council Bill 25‑48) – motion carried
• Approved road closures for Marian Days event – motion carried
• Accepted claims report totaling $4,457,445.05 – motion carried

Public Safety Committee

The Carthage Public Safety Committee will review several new items, including a resolution for Marian Days, an opioid memorandum of understanding, an updated Master Police Officer job description, and a plan for a Rallye in the Park. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes and staff reports from the fire and police departments.

• Consider and discuss Marian Days Resolution
• Consider and discuss Opioid MOU
• Consider and discuss updated Master Police Officer (MPO) job description
• Consider and discuss Rallye in the Park
• Staff reports from Fire Department and Police Department

The committee approved the 6‑16‑2025 meeting minutes. It amended the Marian Days Resolution to add the closing date and forwarded the resolution to the full council. The Opioid MOU and an updated Master Patrol Officer job description were both forwarded to the appropriate bodies. Road closures for the Rallye in the Park event on September 15 were approved, including vehicle backing permissions.

• Approved 6-16-2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Amended Marian Days Resolution to include closing date (motion passed)
• Forwarded Marian Days Resolution to Council (motion passed)
• Forwarded Opioid MOU to Council (motion passed)
• Forwarded updated Master Patrol Officer job description to Insurance Audits and Claims Committee (motion passed)
• Approved road closures for Rallye in the Park event on Sep 15 and allowed vehicle backing into spaces (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:01 PM (motion passed)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The board will review a resolution requesting the City Council finance electric system projects. Members will also consider purchasing a bucket truck and a water drainage and equipment parking area project.

• Approval of June disbursements totaling $3,893,519.06
• Resolution 2025.02 regarding City Council financing for electric system projects
• Proposed purchase of a bucket truck
• Proposed water drainage and equipment parking area project
• Presentation by Bob Moye of Tyr Energy

The board unanimously approved a resolution requesting the City Council to finance electric system projects up to $25,000,000. It also approved the purchase of a $225,833 bucket truck from Altec Industries and awarded a $410,117 water‑drainage and equipment parking area project to Randy Dubry Construction. June disbursements of $3,893,519.06 were approved, and the meeting was adjourned after a closed‑session segment.

• Approved Resolution 2025.02 to request City Council financing up to $25,000,000 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2026 bucket truck for $225,833 from Altec Industries (unanimous)
• Awarded water drainage and equipment parking area project to Randy Dubry Construction for $410,117 (unanimous)
• Approved June disbursements of $3,893,519.06 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 18, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Closed portion of meeting per Section 610.021(1) (unanimous roll‑call)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review its minutes, financial statements, and the director’s progress report. Committee reports on building, budget, community relations, by‑laws, gardens, ADA compliance, communications, and compensation will be presented. New business includes committee assignments and payment of bills.

• Review of minutes from the last meeting
• Financial reports
• Director's progress and service report
• Committee reports (building, budget, community relations, by‑laws, gardens, ADA compliance, communications, compensation/wages)
• New business: committee assignments and payment of bills

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will review the June 24, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report. It will then consider several items, including an employee health fair, a contract with Tyler Technologies for upgraded financial software, and revisions to employee records and whistleblower protection policies. The meeting also includes a citizen participation segment and staff reports.

• Approval of June 24, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Consideration of an employee health fair
• Consideration of an agreement with Tyler Technologies for upgraded financial software
• Consideration of changes to the Employee Records Policy and Section 608 Whistleblower Protection Policy

City Council

The City Council will review agreements for the use of Kiwanis Kiddieland in Municipal Park and a landscaping contract for the Fairlawn Roundabout. The body will also consider a financial software subscription and several board appointments.

• C.B. 25-47: Agreement with Scott's Landscape and Excavation for Fairlawn Roundabout landscaping and irrigation for $25,170.00
• C.B. 25-46: Ordinance for Kiwanis Club of Carthage to utilize Kiwanis Kiddieland in Municipal Park
• C.B. 25-48: Contract with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for annual financial software subscription
• Mayor's appointments for Ward 4 Council Member and various city boards

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss a blight declaration request. The commission will also review minutes from the June 5, 2025, meeting.

• Blight Declaration Request for property at 136 E 4th

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission approved the prior meeting minutes, approved a blight declaration for 136 E. 4th St., and elected Josh Anderson as the new chairman. The commission also agreed to table the selection of a new secretary until the next meeting. All motions passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 6:00 PM.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved blight declaration for 136 E. 4th St. (unanimous)
• Elected Josh Anderson as new chairman (unanimous)
• Tabled appointment of new secretary until next meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will meet on July 1, 2025 at 4:30 PM in the Parks & Recreation Office, 521 Robert Ellis Young Drive. The board will approve the minutes from its previous meeting. The board will consider and discuss plans for Arbor Day 2026. The agenda also includes staff reports, other business, and adjournment.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Consider and discuss Arbor Day 2026

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee meeting scheduled for July 1, 2025, was cancelled due to a lack of quorum. No business was conducted.

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet to review the proposed Golf Fund budget for fiscal year 2025-2026. The committee will also consider the approval of minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting.

• Discussion of FY 2025-2026 Golf Fund budget
• Approval of June 4, 2025 minutes

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved the June 4, 2025 minutes (3-0). It then amended the golf fund budget to reflect revised revenue and expense estimates, including lower seasonal hours, a lease‑purchase for a mower, and not filling a new maintenance position (3-0). The meeting was adjourned at 5:06 PM (3-0).

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Amended FY 2025-2026 golf fund budget (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:06 PM (3-0)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will approve the June 10, 2025 meeting minutes and review the Claims Report. It will then consider several policy items, including a Police Corporal job description, a revised Employment Records Policy, and revisions to section 2-122(c) of the Carthage Code. The meeting also includes a citizen participation notice and staff reports before adjournment.

• Approval of June 10, 2025 minutes
• Review & approval of the Claims Report
• Consider and discuss Police Corporal job description
• Consider and discuss revised Employment Records Policy
• Consider and discuss revisions to section 2-122(c) of the Carthage Code

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the June 10, 2025 minutes and the claims report. It adopted the police corporal job description and sent a revised Employment Records Policy to the council for approval. Two policy revisions—section 2-122(c) and the whistle‑blower protection policy—were postponed until the July 8 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 10, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Approved police corporal job description (3-0)
• Sent revised Employment Records Policy to council for approval (2-1)
• Postponed revisions to section 2-122(c) until July 8 (3-0)
• Postponed changes to Section 608 Whistleblower Protection Policy until July 8 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider and vote on the 2025‑2026 municipal budget. A public hearing on the budget will be held during the meeting. The council will also act on several ordinances, including contracts for sidewalk improvements and landscaping, utility rate changes, and a special use permit for a home‑based beauty shop.

• C.B. 25-42 – Ordinance adopting the FY 2025‑2026 budget
• C.B. 25-40 – Contract with ATS Contractors, LLC for sidewalk improvements on Airport Drive and Fairview Avenue, $574,199.40
• C.B. 25-41 – Ordinance authorizing utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater services
• C.B. 25-43 – Special use permit for a beauty shop operated by Kirsten Kelley at 2508 Stephen Street
• C.B. 25-47 – Agreement with Scott's Landscape and Excavation for Fairlawn Roundabout landscaping and irrigation, $25,170.00

The council adopted the City of Carthage FY 2025‑26 budget (Ordinance 25‑41) with an 8‑yea, 0‑nay vote. It also approved ordinances increasing golf cart fees (Ordinance 25‑38), authorizing a $574,199.40 sidewalk contract (Ordinance 25‑39), and changing utility rates (Ordinance 25‑40). Additional actions included approving the Police Corporal job description, amending the golf fund budget to $929,200 revenue and $1,029,349.04 expenditure, and accepting a $638,004.08 claims report.

• Adopted FY 2025‑26 budget (Ordinance 25‑41) – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved golf cart fee increase ordinance (Ordinance 25‑38) – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Authorized sidewalk contract with ATS Contractors, LLC for $574,199.40 (Ordinance 25‑39) – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Authorized utility rate changes for electric, water, wastewater (Ordinance 25‑40) – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Police Corporal job description – motion carried
• Amended golf fund budget to $929,200 revenue and $1,029,349.04 expenditure – motion carried
• Accepted claims report totaling $638,004.08 – motion carried
• Approved road closure for Belle Air block party on June 29 – motion carried

City Council

The council will meet for a training session conducted by John Young with Hamilton Weber via Zoom. Topics include charter city introduction, sources and limitations on city authority, ordinances and resolutions, meeting procedures, planning and zoning, and sunshine and local records laws. No official business will be taken.

• Training session covering charter city, authority, ordinances, procedures, planning, zoning, and sunshine laws (no official business)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will meet on June 18, 2025 to approve May 2025 disbursements of $4,450,250.07 and review the May 2025 financial statement. The board will consider Resolution 2025.01 recommending a water storage subcontract with the Southwest Missouri Joint Municipal Water Utility Commission. It will also vote on constructing a new parking lot on Centennial Avenue, evaluate bids for tree trimming and vegetation management services, and select officers for fiscal year 2026.

• Approval of May 2025 disbursements totaling $4,450,250.07
• Consideration of Resolution 2025.01 for a water storage subcontract with the Southwest Missouri Joint Municipal Water Utility Commission
• Approval of construction of a new parking lot on Centennial Avenue
• Consideration of bids for tree trimming and vegetation management services
• Selection of Board officers for FY26

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to kick off the Carthage Design Guidelines Project. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as a staff report and review of previous minutes.

• Public hearing for the Carthage Design Guidelines Project kick-off

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will consider several topics, including stocking the park with largemouth bass, the Sudstock event, the Jasper County Youth Fair, and a demand‑based pricing model for golf course fees. The committee will also review a request for proposals for roundabout landscaping, a memorandum of understanding with Kiwanis Kiddieland, and the golf course’s expenditures and revenue. No formal actions are listed; the items are for discussion.

• Ralleye in the Park
• Sudstock
• Jasper County Youth Fair
• Demand‑based pricing for golf course fees
• RFP for Roundabout Landscaping

The Public Services Committee approved several items, each passing unanimously (3‑0). Approvals included the previous meeting minutes, three community events (Ralleye in the Park, Sudstock, Jasper County Youth Fair), a demand‑based golf fee structure, a landscaping contract for a roundabout, a five‑year Kiwanis Kiddieland license agreement, and a lease option for a new golf mower. All motions were forwarded to the City Council for final approval.

• Approved previous minutes (3-0)
• Approved Ralleye in the Park event (3-0)
• Approved Sudstock event (3-0)
• Approved Jasper County Youth Fair event (3-0)
• Approved demand‑based golf course fee proposal (3-0)
• Approved Scott’s Landscaping bid for roundabout ($25,170) (3-0)
• Approved Kiwanis Kiddieland five‑year license agreement (3-0)
• Approved lease payment option for new golf mower (3-0)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss road closures for the Belle Aire 4th of July event and the Jasper County Youth Fair. The committee will also review the Police Corporal job description.

• Road closures on Belle Aire (between Grand and the cul-de-sac), Clinton (from St. Louis to Highland), and Fulton (from Clinton to Highland) from 4:00PM to 9:00PM
• Jasper County Youth Fair discussion
• Police Corporal job description review
• Introduction of Fire Department Battalion Chiefs

The committee approved the minutes from May 22, 2025. It approved a temporary closure of Belle Aire between Grand and the cul‑de‑sac on June 29 from 4 PM to 9 PM for a Fourth of July parade/block party. It approved road closures, food‑truck permits, and camper accommodations for the Jasper County Youth Fair in Municipal Park from July 5‑13, and accepted the related safety measures. The committee voted to forward the new Police Corporal job description to the Insurance Audits and Claims Committee.

• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Belle Aire street closure June 29, 2025 4‑PM‑9‑PM (motion passed)
• Approved road closures, food‑truck permits, and camper use for Jasper County Youth Fair July 5‑13 (motion passed)
• Forwarded Police Corporal job description to Insurance Audits and Claims Committee (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:52 PM (motion passed)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board of Trustees will review routine reports, including financial statements for April and May 2025 and several committee updates. The board will also consider payment of bills in a closed‑session portion. A key action item is a vote to reorganize the Board of Trustees.

• Vote to reorganize Board of Trustees
• Payment of bills (closed session)
• Financial reports – April and May 2025
• Director's progress and service report
• Committee reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations, etc.)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to review the claims report and approve previous meeting minutes. The committee is also scheduled to discuss potential changes to section 2-122(c) of the Carthage City Code.

• Discussion of changes to Carthage City Code section 2-122(c)
• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Approval of May 27, 2025 minutes

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee approved the May 27, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report, each with a 3-0 vote. The committee voted to table discussion of changes to city code section 2-122(c) until the June 24 meeting, also 3-0. The meeting was adjourned at 5:47 PM with a unanimous 3-0 vote.

• Approved May 27, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Tabled discussion of changes to section 2-122(c) of City Code until June 24 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:47 PM (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will vote on the FY 2025‑2026 city budget and several ordinances, including a $574,199.40 sidewalk improvement contract for Airport Drive and Fairview Avenue. Additional items include an emergency contract for new backstage curtains at Memorial Hall ($35,050), utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater, and a special use permit for a beauty shop at 2508 Stephen Street. The council will also consider a $36,000 annual tourism marketing agreement with the Boots Court Foundation and a grant agreement for the Downtown Sidewalk Extension Project.

• C.B. 25-42 – Ordinance adopting the FY 2025‑2026 City of Carthage budget
• C.B. 25-40 – Ordinance authorizing a $574,199.40 sidewalk contract with ATS Contractors, LLC for Airport Drive and Fairview Avenue
• C.B. 25-41 – Ordinance authorizing utility rate changes for electric, water, and wastewater services
• C.B. 25-38 – Emergency ordinance for a $35,050 contract with A to Z Theatrical Supply for backstage curtains at Memorial Hall
• C.B. 25-43 – Ordinance granting a special use permit for a beauty shop at 2508 Stephen Street

The council unanimously approved an ordinance authorizing a $36,000 yearly agreement with the Boots Court Foundation for tourism and marketing services. It also approved emergency contracts for new backstage curtains at Memorial Hall ($35,050) and a community revitalization grant for the downtown sidewalk extension. The Committee on Claims report of $946,774.09 was accepted, and several items were placed on first reading with no action taken.

• Approved Ordinance 25-35 authorizing $36,000 annual tourism agreement with Boots Court Foundation (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Ordinance 25-36 emergency contract for Memorial Hall curtains, $35,050 (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Ordinance 25-37 emergency grant agreement for Downtown Sidewalk Extension project (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Accepted Committee on Claims report of $946,774.09 against multiple funds (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of May 27, 2025 regular council meeting (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of May 27, 2025 closed‑session meeting (motion carried)
• Placed Ordinance 25-40 (sidewalk improvements $574,199.40) on first reading, no action taken
• Placed Ordinance 25-41 (utility rate changes) on first reading, no action taken

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a special use permit. The body will also discuss middle income housing.

• Special Use Permit request for a one-operator beauty shop at 2508 Stephen St.
• Discussion on Middle Income Housing

The commission approved the previous meeting minutes. It approved a special use permit for a licensed beauty shop at 2508 Stephen St., with no opposition from the neighborhood. No action was taken on the middle‑income housing discussion or the upcoming tax‑credit project. The meeting was adjourned at 5:55 PM.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all present voted in favor)
• Approved Special Use Permit for beauty shop at 2508 Stephen St. (all present voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:55 PM (all present voted in favor)

General

The Carthage Budget Ways & Means Committee met on June 4, 2025. The committee will discuss a downtown sidewalk expansion project, a budget adjustment for the Memorial Hall curtain, revisions to the Boots Court Foundation agreement, and overall budget perfection. Staff reports will also be presented before adjournment.

• Consider Downtown Sidewalk Expansion Project
• Consider Memorial Hall Curtain Budget Adjustment
• Consider revisions to Boots Court Foundation Agreement
• Consider Budget Perfection
• Staff Reports

The Ways & Means Committee approved the May 12 and May 14, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It voted to forward discussions on the downtown sidewalk expansion, the Memorial Hall curtain budget adjustment, and the Boots Court Foundation agreement to the full council. The committee also approved removing the Rock Stadium wall and fence removal carryover and allocating $100,000 to Fair Acres improvements, then forwarded the FY 25/26 budget to council. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Forwarded downtown sidewalk expansion discussion to council (5-0)
• Forwarded Memorial Hall curtain budget adjustment to council (5-0)
• Forwarded Boots Court Foundation agreement to council with hours changed to 9am‑7pm (5-0)
• Removed Rock Stadium wall and fence removal carryover (5-0)
• Allocated $100,000 to Fair Acres improvements (5-0)
• Forwarded FY 25/26 budget to council (5-0)

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will meet to review old business and staff reports. The board is scheduled to discuss the mulching of young trees in the park.

• Discussion regarding mulching young trees in park

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will consider change orders for the Downtown Square sidewalk project and the Hazel/Airport Road widening project. It will also discuss accepting a bid from ATS Construction for the Fairview/Airport Drive sidewalk and forward the recommendation to City Council as an ordinance. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of previous minutes and staff reports.

• Consider change order to Downtown Square Sidewalk Project
• Consider change order to Hazel/Airport Road Widening Project
• Discuss bid acceptance from ATS Construction for Fairview/Airport Dr. Sidewalk and forward to City Council for ordinance

The committee accepted the June 3 meeting minutes. It approved a change order for the Square Sidewalk Project that adds solid surface bump‑outs and extends the completion date to August 8, with no cost increase. It also approved a change order for the Hazel Rd and Airport Rd widening project to extend a drainage pipe, adjust elevation, and add a thicker rock sub‑base. Finally, the committee voted to forward the $574,199.40 ATS Construction bid for the Airport Dr. and Fairview Ave Sidewalk Project to the City Council for an ordinance. All motions passed unanimously.

• Accepted June 3 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Square Sidewalk Project change order (unanimous)
• Approved Hazel Rd/Airport Rd widening change order (unanimous)
• Forwarded $574,199.40 ATS Construction bid to Council for ordinance (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:06 p.m. (unanimous)

General

The McCune Brooks Regional Hospital Trust Board will hold its regular meeting on May 28, 2025. Trustees will vote to replace James Harrison with Secretary Shelby Baugh as President and Vice President for fiscal year 2025‑2026. The agenda also includes a review of the February 26, 2025 meeting minutes, a financial statement report, and consideration of grant applications.

• Election of FY 2025‑2026 President and Vice President (replace James Harrison, add Shelby Baugh)
• Approval of February 26, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial Statement Report & Review
• Review and approval of Grant Applications
• Set next meeting date for August 27, 2025

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will approve the May 13, 2025 meeting minutes and review the Claims Report. It will also consider changes to the Taxi Driver job description, an Employment Records Policy, and a revised organizational structure for the Fire Department, along with several fire‑related job descriptions.

• Approval of May 13, 2025 Minutes
• Review & Approval of the Claims Report
• Consider changes to the Taxi Driver job description
• Consider the Employment Records Policy
• Consider revised organizational structure for the Fire Department

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee approved the May 13, 2025 minutes and the claims report. It adopted changes to the taxi driver job description and approved revised job descriptions for the Deputy Fire Chief, Fire Training Chief, and Battalion Chief. The committee also approved returning the fire department to its former organizational structure and directed a council bill be drafted for an employment records policy. All motions passed unanimously (3-0).

• Approved May 13, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Approved taxi driver job description changes (3-0)
• Directed council bill drafting for employment records policy (3-0)
• Approved fire department organizational structure revert (3-0)
• Approved Deputy Fire Chief job description changes (3-0)
• Approved Fire Training Chief job description changes (3-0)
• Approved Battalion Chief job description changes (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider a series of ordinances authorizing the Mayor to enter into contracts for infrastructure projects, tourism services, and other city operations. Items include a $308,915 contract to replace box culverts on West Macon and Center Streets, a $289,559 sidewalk project, and a $36,000 annual tourism marketing agreement. The council will also address an emergency ordinance to raise pool fees, a change to golf‑cart rental fees, and a $32,250 purchase of backstage curtains for Memorial Hall. Additional agenda items cover public comments, reports, resolutions and a closed‑session vote on potential litigation.

• C.B. 25-26 – Contract with Elements Construction Concepts, Inc. for West Macon and Center Street box culverts, $308,915.00
• C.B. 25-27 – Contract with Elite Site Work for HH and Chapel Road sidewalk project, $289,559.00
• C.B. 25-30 – Agreement with Boots Court Foundation/Carthage Visitors Center for tourism and marketing services, $36,000 annually
• C.B. 25-34 – Agreement with Union Pacific Railroad for McGregor St Bridge plan review, $25,000.00
• C.B. 25-38 – Contract with A to Z Theatrical Supply for new backstage curtains at Memorial Hall, $32,250.00

The Carthage City Council adopted several ordinances authorizing major road and sidewalk projects, a temporary cell tower for Marian Days, and a service contract with the Over 60 Center. It also accepted bids for the Kellogg Lake fountain and Memorial Hall furniture. All listed actions were approved by unanimous roll‑call votes or motions carried.

• Approved Ordinance 25-24 authorizing a temporary COW/COLT cell tower for Marian Days – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Ordinance 25-25 for $308,915 box culvert replacements on West Macon and Center Street – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Ordinance 25-26 for $289,559 HH and Chapel Road sidewalk project – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Ordinance 25-27 for $165,474 box culvert replacement on East Chestnut Street – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Ordinance 25-28 amending the Vision Carthage services contract – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Ordinance 25-30 for $23,000 services with the Carthage Over 60 Center – 8 yeas, 0 nays
• Accepted bid from Site One for the Kellogg Lake Fountain, $23,424.70 – motion carried
• Accepted bid from Carthage Hardware for chairs, tables and hangers, $27,794.98 – motion carried

Public Safety Committee

The Carthage Public Safety Committee met on May 22, 2025 to consider several agenda items. The committee approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. Members discussed road closures for the July 4 event, community activities such as St. Luke's color run/walk and Dumpster Days, and reviewed the Fire Department personnel plan, including a revised organizational structure and job descriptions. The police chief presented the Blue Shield Program for consideration and the committee examined proposed changes to the taxi driver job description.

• Approval of April 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of road closures for the July 4 event (Abi Almandinger)
• Review of Fire Department Personnel Plan with revised organizational structure and job descriptions (Chief Martin)
• Consideration of the Blue Shield Program (Chief Hawkins)
• Proposed updates to taxi driver job description regarding driver’s license requirement and work week hours

The committee approved the minutes from the April 22 meeting. It authorized several road closures for the Red White and Boom 4th of July event and for the St. Luke's Color Run. The fire department's revised structure and job descriptions were forwarded to the City Council, as was the police department's Blue Shield Program resolution. The taxi driver job description was amended and the meeting was adjourned at 6:22 PM.

• Approved 4-22-25 meeting minutes
• Approved road closures on Robert Ellis Young, Macon, Richard Webster Drive at the Dog Park and at Oak for the 4th‑of‑July event (12:30‑9:00) at Municipal Park
• Approved road closures on Fairview/Katherine, Katherine/Carrie, Pear/Katherine, Pearl at the west entrance to St. Luke’s (9:00‑12:00) for the Color Run
• Forwarded Fire Department revised organizational structure and job descriptions to City Council
• Forwarded Blue Shield Program resolution to City Council
• Amended Taxi Driver job description: changed license requirement to Class E Chauffeur’s license and set maximum 56‑hour bi‑weekly work schedule
• Adjourned meeting at 6:22 PM

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will consider and discuss a series of items related to recreation and park services. Topics include possible cart fees for the golf course, gate fees for the pool, and the surplus of an indoor hitting bay. The committee will also review proposals for events such as a 5k run, a swim meet, and a music program, as well as several RFPs for park improvements.

• Consider and discuss cart fees for golf course
• Consider and discuss surplus of indoor hitting bay
• Consider and discuss gate fees for pool
• Consider and discuss RFP for Kellogg Lake fountain
• Consider and discuss RFP for tables and chairs at Memorial Hall

The Public Services Committee voted unanimously to adopt higher daily admission fees for city pools and increased party rental rates. It also approved new golf cart rental rates, declared an indoor hitting bay surplus, accepted bids for a Kellogg Lake fountain, Memorial Hall tables/chairs and curtains, and authorized community events such as the Red, White & Boom 5K, Kraken Swim Meet food trucks, and the Summer Concert Series.

• Approved new golf cart rates: $10 (9‑hole), $16 (18‑hole), $6 push carts (4‑0)
• Declared indoor hitting bay surplus (4‑0)
• Approved Red, White & Boom 5K event (4‑0)
• Authorized food trucks at Kraken Swim Meet on July 12 (4‑0)
• Approved pool gate fee increase to $4 daily and party rental fees $250 (Municipal) and $100 (Central) (4‑0)
• Accepted $23,424.70 bid for Kellogg Lake fountain (4‑0)
• Accepted $27,794.98 bid for Memorial Hall tables, chairs and hangers (4‑0)
• Accepted $32,250 bid for Memorial Hall curtain replacement (4‑0)

General

The Carthage Budget Ways & Means Committee meeting on May 14, 2025 will consider and discuss the Carthage Water and Electric Plant budget for fiscal year 2025-2026. The agenda also includes standard items such as call to order, old business, citizen participation, staff reports, and adjournment.

• Consider and discuss Carthage Water and Electric Plant budget for FY 25-26

The Budget Ways & Means Committee considered the Carthage Water and Electric Plant budget for FY 25‑26, noting a $75 reconnection fee, a $50 meter test fee, and proposed rate increases of 1% for electric, 3% for water, and 1% for wastewater. The committee also confirmed that the CW&EP salary study has been implemented. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Adjourned meeting unanimously (5-0)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board of Trustees will consider its latest financial reports, the director’s progress and service report, and a message from the president. Additional items include a council liaison report and reports from the building, budget, community relations, library gardens, ADA compliance, communications, and compensation committees. The board will also address new business, payment of bills, and adjourn the meeting.

• Financial Reports
• Director’s Progress and Service Report
• Council Liaison’s Report
• Committee Reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations, Library Gardens, ADA Compliance)
• Payment of Bills

The trustees unanimously approved the minutes from the April 8 meeting. They also voted to pay the library’s outstanding bills. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. Additional reports noted completion of the emergency lighting project, ongoing roof leak investigations, plans for new entry doors, replacement of storm‑damaged trees, and approval of a $20,000 technology grant.

• Approved April 8 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payment of library bills (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Reported emergency lighting project completed and passed fire inspection
• Reported roof leaks identified; committee will explore repairs
• Discussed ordering new entry doors similar to Steadley building (6‑8 week lead time)
• Reported most storm‑damaged trees in Library Gardens have been replaced
• Reported $20,000 technology grant approved

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will approve the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report. It will then consider and discuss a broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney and a banking services agreement with Guaranty Bank. Additional items include citizen participation procedures and staff reports.

• Approval of April 22, 2025 Minutes
• Review & Approval of the Claims Report
• Consider and discuss broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney
• Consider and discuss banking services agreement with Guaranty Bank
• Staff Reports

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report unanimously. It voted to forward the Ollis/Akers/Arney broker agreement and the Guaranty Bank banking services agreement to the full council for approval. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Forwarded Ollis/Akers/Arney broker agreement to council (3-0)
• Forwarded Guaranty Bank banking services agreement to council (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

General

The City Council is meeting for a special closed session. The discussion is limited to legal actions, causes of action, or litigation involving the public governmental body.

• Executive session regarding legal actions and litigation

The City Council discussed a liability insurance settlement in the Greg Dagnan case. A motion to table the decision failed 4‑6. The Council then approved the settlement agreement 7‑3 and unanimously authorized the mayor to sign it. The meeting was adjourned.

• Motion to table settlement decision failed (4 yeas, 6 nays)
• Motion to accept settlement agreement carried (7 yeas, 3 nays)
• Motion to allow Mayor to sign settlement carried (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Motion to adjourn special closed session carried (10 yeas, 0 nays)

City Council

The City Council will vote on several construction contracts for culverts and sidewalks. The body is also considering agreements for scooter rentals, cell tower placement for Marian Days, and tourism services.

• Contract with Elements Construction Concepts, Inc. for West Macon and Center Street Box Culverts for $308,915.00
• Contract with Elite Site Work for HH and Chapel Road Sidewalk project for $289,559.00
• Contract with JKS Construction Inc. for East Chestnut Street box culvert replacement for $165,474.00
• Agreement with Boots Court Foundation/Carthage Visitors Center for $36,000.00 annually for tourism and marketing
• Administrative Lot Split for approximately 20.51 acres East of South Grand Avenue on East Fir Road

The council approved Ordinance 25-22 authorizing a cost‑free decorative street banner program (10‑0) and Ordinance 25-23 authorizing a contract with Neutron Holdings for scooter rentals (10‑0). It also adopted Resolution 2086 for a broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney and Resolution 2087 granting an administrative lot split of about 20.51 acres (both 10‑0). The Committee on Claims report totaling $2,673,127.60 was accepted by the council (10‑0).

• Approved Ordinance 25-22 for decorative street banner program (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Ordinance 25-23 emergency contract with Neutron Holdings for scooter rentals (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Resolution 2086 broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Resolution 2087 administrative lot split of ~20.51 acres east of South Grand Ave (10 yeas, 0 nays)
• Accepted Committee on Claims report of $2,673,127.60 (10 yeas, 0 nays)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Board will consider the 2025 Strategic Plan and review bids for sludge hauling and the construction of Feeder 20. Members will also review April 2025 financial statements and disbursements.

• Approval of April 2025 disbursements totaling $6,273,610.13
• Consideration of 2025 Strategic Plan
• Consideration of bids for sludge hauling
• Consideration of bids for construction of Feeder 20

The Carthage Water & Electric Board approved the April 16 minutes and April disbursements of $6,273,610.13. It adopted the 2025 Strategic Plan, approved a sludge hauling contract with Hillhouse Pumping, and approved the Feeder 20 construction contract with Utility Line Construction Services for $637,283.80. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April disbursements of $6,273,610.13 (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 Strategic Plan (unanimous)
• Awarded sludge hauling contract to Hillhouse Pumping (unanimous)
• Awarded Feeder 20 construction contract to Utility Line Construction Services for $637,283.80 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Budget Ways & Means

The committee will meet to discuss the FY 25/26 Budget. Members will also consider a Memorandum of Understanding with the CEDC and a contract with the Carthage Senior Center.

• FY 25/26 Budget discussion
• MOU with CEDC
• Contract with the Carthage Senior Center

The committee approved the April 14, 2025 minutes unanimously. It voted 5‑0 to forward the $70,000 memorandum of understanding with the CEDC to the City Council, and also voted 5‑0 to forward the ongoing senior center contract to Council. The meeting was adjourned at 6:07 PM.

• Approved April 14, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Forwarded CEDC MOU to Council (5-0)
• Forwarded Senior Center contract to Council (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will first approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will then consider and discuss a work day planned for June. The agenda also includes a citizen participation notice, staff reports, and other business before adjournment.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Consideration of a June work day
• Citizen participation notice (advance written request required)
• Staff reports
• Other business

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will first consider and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. It will discuss proposed changes to the Downtown Square Sidewalk Project. The committee will review a license agreement with Cellco Partnership dba Verizon Wireless for a temporary C.O.L.T on a 150‑by‑150‑foot parcel at 2031 S Main for Marian Days 2025, and several bid acceptances for culvert and sidewalk projects. It will also consider a lot split on E. Fir Rd., with all items to be sent to the City Council for ordinance or resolution action.

• Consider changes to Downtown Square Sidewalk Project
• License agreement with Cellco Partnership dba Verizon Wireless for temporary C.O.L.T at 2031 S Main for Marian Days 2025
• Bid acceptance from Elements Construction Concepts, LLC for West Macon and Center Street box culverts
• Lot split on E. Fir Rd. to be sent to Council for resolution
• Bid acceptance from JKS Construction Inc. for box culvert replacement on E Chestnut St.

The committee accepted the April 1 minutes. It approved forwarding a Verizon Wireless temporary cell tower request, multiple construction contracts for box culverts and a sidewalk grant, and a lot‑split request to the City Council. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m.

• Accepted April 1, 2025 minutes (all ayes)
• Forwarded Verizon Wireless temporary cell tower request at 2031 S Main St to Council (all ayes)
• Forwarded contract with Elements Construction Concepts for West Macon ($164,905) and Center St. ($144,010) box culverts to Council (all ayes)
• Forwarded lot‑split request on E. Fir Rd (4.1‑acre portion) to Council for a resolution (all ayes)
• Forwarded contract with Elite Site Work for HH and Chapel Road Sidewalk (City share $290,000) to Council (all ayes)
• Forwarded contract with JKS Construction for E Chestnut St box culvert replacement ($165,000) to Council (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:55 p.m. (all ayes)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss middle income housing. No items are scheduled for public hearing.

• Discussion regarding middle income housing

The Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Commission approved the previous meeting minutes, with all present voting in favor. No other actions were taken. The committee then adjourned, again with all present voting in favor.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all present voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all present voted in favor)

General

The Police and Fire Pension Committee will meet on April 22, 2025 at Carthage City Hall. They will accept the minutes from the previous meeting. They will review a quarterly investment report and discuss a plan amendment to add a lump‑sum payout option. They will discuss and approve an auditor for the fiscal year ending 12/31/2024 and hold a training session.

• Accept minutes from the previous meeting
• Quarterly Report on Investments presented by Phil Michaud
• Discuss and approve auditor for fiscal year ending 12/31/2024
• Discuss plan amendment to add lump‑sum payout option
• Training session

Public Safety Committee

The Carthage Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss several community events and new business items, including the potential sale of alcohol at Food Truck Fridays and a proposed budget reallocation for the Police Department.

• Consider alcohol sales at Food Truck Fridays
• Discuss Police Department budget reallocation
• Consider donation to the Fire Department
• Consider surplus of Police Command Bus
• Citizen participation on community events

The Public Safety Committee approved several street closures for upcoming community events, including closures on 7th Street on April 30, Wendy Lane on May 31, and streets in Kellogg Lake Park on June 6. The committee also authorized the serving of alcohol in Central Park for the Art in the Park event on June 28 and for Food Truck Friday events. Additional actions included surplus of a 1990 police command bus, reallocation of $9,500 use‑tax funds to purchase two riding mowers, and acceptance of a $1,000 donation to the fire department.

• Approved street closure on 7th Street (Garrison Ave. to Lyon St., including Maple & 7th) for CWEP Big Truck event, April 30 (motion passes)
• Approved street closure on Wendy Lane (between Laura St. and Buena Vista) for Neighborhood block party, May 31 (motion passes)
• Approved street closure in Kellogg Lake Park for Kids Fishing Day, June 6 (motion passes)
• Approved alcohol service in Central Park for Art in the Park event, June 28, 7‑10 pm (motion passes)
• Approved alcohol at Food Truck Friday events in Central Park, 4‑9 pm (motion passes)
• Approved surplus of 1990 International 3800 FBC Command bus, retaining AC unit and generator (motion passes)
• Approved reallocation of $9,500 use‑tax from Honor Guard uniforms to purchase two riding mowers for Stations 1 and 2 (motion passes)
• Approved acceptance of $1,000 donation from Jim Woestman to the Carthage Fire Department (motion passes)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to review a claims report and discuss a broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney.

• Review and approval of the Claims Report
• Discussion of broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney

The committee approved the April 8, 2025 minutes and the claims report by unanimous vote. It voted to table the broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney until the May 13 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:41 PM.

• Approved April 8, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Tabled broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney until May 13 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:41 PM (3-0)

General

The City Council will handle the transition of council members and approve several administrative agreements. Key actions include accepting land donations and authorizing the disposal of surplus police equipment.

• C.B. 25-22: Emergency Ordinance to accept two parcels of land from RSM Development in Sunrise Meadows subdivision
• C.B. 25-23: Agreement with CGI Digital for a cost-free decorative street banner program
• Resolution 2085: Disposition of a 1990 International 3800 FBC police command vehicle to be scrapped
• Resolution 2086: Broker agreement with Ollis/Akers/Arney for the 2025/2026 policy year
• Oath of Office and election of Mayor Pro Tem

The council adopted an emergency ordinance (C.B. 25-22) to accept two parcels of land from RSM Development in Sunrise Meadows, passing 7‑0. It also approved several temporary street closures and alcohol permits for community events, reallocated $9,500 from Honor Guard uniforms to purchase a fire‑station mower, and accepted a $1,833,483.78 claims report. Resolutions 2085 and 2084 were approved, declaring a police command bus surplus and accepting a $1,000 fire department donation. The minutes of the April 8, 2025 meeting were approved.

• Approved emergency ordinance C.B. 25‑22 to accept two parcels of land (7‑0)
• Approved street closure of Kellogg Lake Park streets June 6‑7 for Kid’s Fishing Day (motion carried)
• Approved alcohol permit in Central Park June 28 for Art in the Park (motion carried)
• Approved street closure of Wendy Lane May 31 for Neighborhood Block Party (motion carried)
• Approved street closure of 7th Street April 30 for CWEP Big Truck Event (motion carried)
• Reallocated $9,500 from Honor Guard uniforms to purchase new fire‑station mower (motion carried)
• Accepted claims report totaling $1,833,483.78 (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution 2085 declaring old police command bus surplus (motion carried)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The board will approve the March 26, 2025 meeting minutes and a disbursement of $4,599,442.79 for March. It will review the March financial statement. New business includes consideration of the FY 2025‑2026 budget, utility rate adjustments, and revisions to the Salary Administration Guidelines policy.

• Approval of board minutes from March 26, 2025
• Approval of disbursements totaling $4,599,442.79 for March
• Consideration of Fiscal Year 2025‑2026 budget
• Consideration of utility rate adjustments
• Consideration of revisions to CWEP’s Salary Administration Guidelines policy

Public Services Committee

The Carthage Public Services Committee will consider and discuss several community events and projects, including an Evening Soirée in the Park, a Schreiber event, Great American's Day, a Dual Language Academy event, a Lime MOU, a Memorial Hall curtain bid, and the downtown sidewalk project design. No decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion only.

• Evening Soirée in the Park with Vision Carthage
• Schreiber event
• Great American's Day
• Dual Language Academy event
• Downtown sidewalk project design

The Public Services Committee approved the Vision Carthage banner agreement to be sent to Council and authorized four separate events in Central Park: an Evening Soirée on June 28, Schreiber Park Day on June 7, Great Americans Day on May 13, and the Dual Language Academy Cultural Festival on May 2. The committee also moved the Lime scooter contract forward for full Council review. Two items—the Memorial Hall curtain bid and the downtown sidewalk project design—were tabled.

• Approved Vision Carthage banner program agreement to be forwarded to Council (3-0)
• Approved Evening Soirée in Central Park on June 28 (3-0)
• Approved Schreiber Park Day use of Central Park and beverage truck (3-0)
• Approved Great Americans Day use of Central Park (3-0)
• Approved Dual Language Academy Cultural Festival on May 2 in Central Park (3-0)
• Forwarded Lime scooter contract to full Council after attorney review (3-0)
• Tabled Memorial Hall curtain bid (3-0)
• Tabled downtown sidewalk project design (3-0)

Budget Ways & Means

The committee will discuss projected revenues for the FY 25/26 budget. Members will also consider agreements and contracts with local organizations.

• FY 25/26 Budget Revenues
• Agreement with Boots Court Visitors Center
• Contract with Vision Carthage
• MOU with the CEDC
• Contract with Carthage Chamber of Commerce

The Budget Ways & Means Committee approved the March 10, 2025 minutes. It moved three contracts—Boots Court Visitor Center, Vision Carthage, and the Carthage Chamber of Commerce—to the council for further action. The committee tabled the memorandum of understanding with the CEDC and accepted the estimated FY 25/26 revenues. All motions passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Forwarded Boots Court Visitor Center contract to council (3-0)
• Forwarded Vision Carthage contract to council (3-0)
• Tabled CEDC MOU (3-0)
• Forwarded Chamber of Commerce contract to council (3-0)
• Accepted FY 25/26 estimated revenues (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review financial reports, committee updates, and the proposed 2025-2026 budget. The meeting also includes a discussion on cyber policy and a wage update for 2025-2026.

• 2025-2026 Budget discussion
• 2025-2026 wage update
• Cyber Policy review
• Building Committee report
• ADA Compliance review

The board unanimously approved the prior meeting minutes and the financial report. It accepted Heidlage Electric’s estimate for a new emergency backup power system and approved a $475‑per‑week bookkeeping contract with Schmidt and Associates. The board also authorized payment of outstanding bills and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved February 11 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted financial report (unanimous)
• Accepted Heidlage Electric backup power estimate (unanimous)
• Approved Schmidt and Associates bookkeeping contract at $475/week (passed, 1 abstention)
• Authorized payment of bills (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will approve the March 25, 2025 meeting minutes. It will review and approve the claims report. The committee will consider and discuss the job description for a Parks Operations Assistant. Staff reports will also be presented.

• Approval of March 25, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Consideration of Parks Operations Assistant job description
• Staff reports

The committee approved the March 25, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report, each with a unanimous 3-0 vote. It also voted to forward the Parks Operations Assistant job description to the city council for approval, again unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 5:38 p.m. with a 3-0 vote.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Forwarded Parks Operations Assistant job description to council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:38 p.m. (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions. Items include authorizing a contract with Banner Fire Equipment for one E-One Typhoon HP 75 ladder fire apparatus, an agreement with The Walker Collaborative Team to develop Historic District Design Guidelines, and an emergency contract with Servpro for repairs to the Central Park restrooms. The council will also act on a donation of $5,115 from the Carthage Youth Softball team and declare city fencing surplus for disposition.

• C.B. 25-19 – Ordinance to contract with Banner Fire Equipment for one E-One Typhoon HP 75 ladder fire apparatus
• C.B. 25-20 – Ordinance to contract with The Walker Collaborative Team for Historic District Design Guidelines
• C.B. 25-21 – Emergency ordinance to contract with Servpro of Carthage for Central Park restroom repairs
• Resolution 2082 – Acceptance of $5,115 donation from Carthage Youth Softball team for epoxy floor work
• Resolution 2083 – Declaration of city fencing as surplus and authorization for its disposition

The council approved several ordinances, including a fire apparatus contract and historic district design guidelines, both by unanimous vote. It also approved a contract for Central Park restroom repairs and a motion to close Kellogg Lake to fishing for a week in June. Additional actions included adopting a new sign advertising policy, an office rental contract, and resolutions accepting a donation and disposing surplus fencing.

• Approved Ordinance 25-18 authorizing fire ladder purchase (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-19 authorizing historic district design guidelines (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-20 authorizing Servpro contract for Central Park restroom repairs (7-0)
• Approved motion to close Kellogg Lake to fishing June 2‑7 (motion carried)
• Approved new sign advertising policy (motion carried)
• Approved rental contract for city office spaces (motion carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2082 accepting $5,115 donation for concession stand epoxy (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2083 declaring surplus fencing and authorizing disposition (7-0)

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a specific construction request. The body will also review minutes from the March 6, 2025, meeting.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness for a Market Pavilion at 122 Grant St.

The minutes consist of coded entries without any clear approvals, denials, or actions. No specific decisions on planning, zoning, or historic preservation were documented. The meeting appears to have been procedural only.

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will approve the minutes from its previous meeting and then consider several new items. Board members will discuss plans for Arbor Day 2025, the addition of new board members, and requests for memorial tree plantings. The meeting also includes standard staff reports and other business before adjourning.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Consider and discuss Arbor Day 2025
• Consider and discuss new members
• Consider and discuss memorial tree planting requests

The Carthage Tree Board meeting on April 1, 2025 was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were considered or voted on. Consequently, no decisions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee will review and vote on the minutes from its last meeting. Staff reports will be presented by Zeb Carney and Josiah Bayless. No other substantive items are listed.

• Consideration and approval of minutes from the previous meeting
• Staff reports from Zeb Carney and Josiah Bayless

The committee approved the minutes from the February 4, 2025 meeting. No new business or other business was discussed. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted February 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will meet to discuss several administrative policies and upcoming community events. The agenda includes reviews of rental contracts, signage, and sponsorship guidelines.

• Kids' Fishing Day on June 7
• Memorial Hall sign design and sign policy
• Memorial Hall rental contract
• Sponsorship policy
• Donation from Carthage Youth Softball

The Public Services Committee approved several items, all passing with a 4-0 vote. They authorized the temporary closure of Kellogg Lake for a Kids' Fishing Day event, adopted a new Memorial Hall sign design and related policies, and approved a rental agreement and sponsorship policy for Memorial Hall. The committee also approved surplus fencing material distribution, tabled the Red, White and Boom event discussion, and accepted a donation from Carthage Youth Softball to be sent to the full council.

• Approved closing Kellogg Lake to public fishing June 1‑7 for Kids' Fishing Day (4-0)
• Approved Memorial Hall sign Option 1 with logo placement review (4-0)
• Approved updated Memorial Hall digital sign advertising policy (4-0)
• Approved Memorial Hall rental agreement for office space (4-0)
• Approved amended sponsorship policy for city facilities and events (4-0)
• Approved surplus fencing materials resolution forwarded to full council (4-0)
• Tabled Red, White and Boom event discussion until April meeting (4-0)
• Accepted donation from Carthage Youth Softball and sent resolution to full council (4-0)

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Board will approve the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes and a February disbursement of $5,873,410.94. The board will review the February financial statement and committee reports. New business includes consideration of an engine silencer shrouding proposal. Staff reports and board member comments will also be addressed.

• Approval of board minutes from February 20, 2025
• Approval of February disbursements totaling $5,873,410.94
• Review of the February financial statement
• Consideration of engine silencer shrouding
• Staff reports

The board approved the February 2025 disbursements of $5,873,410.94 and adopted the February financial statements, both unanimously. It also approved the minutes from the February 20 meeting unanimously. The board then awarded the engine silencer shrouding project to Farabee Mechanical, Inc. for $151,674.00, with a unanimous vote.

• Approved minutes from February 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 disbursements of $5,873,410.94 (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 financial statements (unanimous)
• Awarded engine silencer shrouding contract to Farabee Mechanical, Inc. for $151,674.00 (unanimous)

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will first approve the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It will then review and approve the claims report and consider an amendment to section 2-160(b) of the City Code. The committee will also receive the annual audit report from KPM CPA's and hear staff reports before adjourning.

• Approval of March 11, 2025 Committee minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Discussion of amendment to section 2-160(b) of the City Code
• Presentation of the annual audit report by KPM CPA's
• Staff reports

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes and the claims report, each by a unanimous 3‑0 vote. It also voted to forward the proposed amendment to City Code section 2‑160(b) to the full council for approval, again unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 6:04 PM by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved March 11, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved claims report (3-0)
• Forwarded amendment to City Code section 2-160(b) to council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:04 PM (3-0)

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider a series of ordinances in the Old Business and New Business sections, including contracts for city facilities and a fire apparatus purchase. Council members will vote on claims presented against the city and appoint a new City Administrator. The meeting also includes routine reports, public comments, and an emergency ordinance amendment.

• C.B. 25-19 – Ordinance authorizing a contract with Banner Fire Equipment, Inc. to purchase one E‑One Typhoon HP 75 Ladder Fire Apparatus
• C.B. 25-10 – Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to contract with Lightspeed Point of Sale for the Carthage Golf Course
• C.B. 25-14 – Ordinance authorizing an agreement with Total Electronics Contracting, Inc. to install door access controls at Public Works and Street Department buildings
• C.B. 25-15 – Ordinance authorizing the City to employ Traci Cox as City Administrator
• C.B. 25-18 – Emergency Ordinance amending Section 2-160(b) of the Carthage City Code

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will discuss a council bill to approve a contract for a ladder truck and a hyper reach mass notification system demonstration. It will also consider road closures for Food Truck Fridays on specified dates and streets. Old business includes approving the February 24, 2025 minutes and discussing the Lunar New Year with Chief Hawkins. The meeting will conclude with staff reports from the fire and police departments.

• Approve minutes from 2-24-25
• Discuss Lunar New Year with Chief Hawkins
• Road closures for Food Truck Fridays on 7th St (Garrison to Main) and Lyon St (7th to Chestnut) on April 11, May 9, June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12
• Council bill to approve contract for ladder truck and hyper reach (mass notification system) demo

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting on March 11, 2025, covering routine items such as roll call, financial reports, the director’s progress report, and committee updates. The agenda also includes a possible closed‑session vote to discuss leasing, purchasing, or selling real estate. No specific contracts or dollar amounts are listed.

• Roll Call of Members
• Public Library Financial Reports
• Director’s Progress and Service Report
• Committee Reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations, Library Gardens, ADA Compliance, Communications, Compensation/Wages)
• Possible closed‑session vote on leasing, purchasing or sale of real estate

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit & Claims Committee will open with a call to order, approve the February 25, 2025 minutes, and review the claims report. Citizens may speak after notifying the department head or chair. Staff will present reports, and the committee will consider and discuss proposed amendments to Code Sections 2-316 and 2-328. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Approval of February 25, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Staff reports
• Consideration of amendments to Code Sections 2-316 and 2-328
• Citizens participation notice

City Council

The Carthage City Council will consider several ordinances that authorize the mayor to enter into contracts for the golf course, youth sports fields, security upgrades, and the hiring of a new city administrator. Old business includes an ordinance on collective bargaining for law enforcement personnel. The council will also vote on resolutions that accept donations and allocate grant funds, including $35,400 and $100,000 per year commitments.

• Ordinance C.B. 25-10 – authorize the mayor to contract with Lightspeed Point of Sale for the Carthage Golf Course
• Ordinance C.B. 25-14 – authorize an agreement with Total Electronics Contracting, Inc. for door access controls at Public Works and Street Department buildings
• Ordinance C.B. 25-15 – authorize the mayor to employ Traci Cox as City Administrator
• Resolution 2079 – approve distribution of $35,400 from the McCune‑Brooks Regional Hospital Trust Restricted Trust Fund to the City of Carthage
• Resolution 2080 – approve $100,000 per year for five years from the same trust to Fair Acres Family Y

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet to discuss several equipment purchases and grant acceptances. The body will review bids for the Public Works Access Project and a request for a financial contribution for a Kellogg Lake Board grant application.

• Purchase of a ladder truck
• Bids for Public Works Access Project
• Acceptance of LEST Grant
• Design guideline grant for Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation
• Humane Society Contract

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss the status of a grant Request for Proposals (RFP). The meeting also includes a review of the February 6, 2025, minutes.

• Public hearing to discuss RFP status of grant

General

The City Council will meet on March 5, 2025 at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers. Council members will discuss department capital requests for fiscal year 2025‑2026, proposed improvements to the economic development park, and plans for a future aquatic facility. No formal actions are listed; the agenda items are for discussion only.

• Department capital requests for FY 2025‑2026
• Economic development park improvements
• Future aquatic facility

Tree Board

The Tree Board will consider and approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will discuss plans for Arbor Day 2025. The board will also consider adding new members. The agenda includes a citizen‑participation notice and routine staff reports.

• Approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Discuss Arbor Day 2025
• Consider new board members
• Citizen participation notice (24‑hour written request required)
• Staff reports

Public Works Committee

The Carthage Public Works Committee meeting scheduled for March 4, 2025 was cancelled due to a lack of business. No agenda items were presented or decided.

General

The Public Services Committee will meet to consider several contracts and projects, including the Fair Acres YMCA contract, the Kellogg Lake project, a Tropix food trailer for the park, a Lightspeed point‑of‑sale system for the golf course, and the FY 2026 city budget. The committee will also approve the previous meeting minutes and address citizen participation items.

• Consider contract with Fair Acres YMCA
• Consider Kellogg Lake project
• Consider Tropix food trailer in the park
• Consider Lightspeed point‑of‑sale system for Golf Course
• Consider FY 2026 budget

General

The McCune Brooks Regional Hospital Trust Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting on February 26, 2025. The agenda includes routine items such as calling the meeting to order, electing a secretary, approving the August 28, 2024 minutes, reviewing the financial statement, and reviewing and approving grant applications. The board will also set the date for the next meeting before adjourning.

• Nomination and election of secretary
• Approval of August 28, 2024 minutes
• Financial statement report and review
• Review and approval of grant applications
• Set next meeting date

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will consider approval of the February 11, 2025 meeting minutes and review the claims report. New business includes staff reports. Citizens who wish to speak must notify the department head or committee chair in advance. The meeting will end with adjournment.

• Approval of February 11, 2025 minutes
• Review and approval of the claims report
• Staff reports (new business)

City Council

The City Council will discuss ordinances regarding law enforcement collective bargaining and budget amendments for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The body is also considering a property buyback waiver and a city code amendment for Lunar New Year.

• C.B. 25-06: Ordinance for collective bargaining with law enforcement personnel
• C.B. 25-08: Budget amendments for General Fund, Use Tax Fund, and Public Facilities Bond Fund
• C.B. 25-07: Ordinance waiving buyback option for Lot 2, Block 3 in Myers Park Subdivision
• C.B. 25-09: Ordinance adding Lunar New Year as an exception to Section 10-3 of City Code

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss a council bill regarding CPOA/FOP and the Lunar New Year. Members will also consider a new ladder truck and receive reports from the Fire and Police Departments.

• CPOA/FOP council bill
• Lunar New Year
• New ladder truck

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board will meet to review January 2025 financial statements and disbursements. The board will consider a project to upgrade the grit chamber at the wastewater treatment plant and the purchase of IPv4 internet addresses.

• Approval of January 2025 disbursements totaling $4,245,966.02
• Consideration of grit chamber upgrade project at the wastewater treatment plant
• Consideration of the purchase of internet protocol version 4 (IPv4) addresses

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will meet on February 13, 2025 to consider several items. Members will discuss the proposed Tropix food trailer for the park, a contract with the local Little League, the city’s FY 2026 budget, and a Lightspeed point‑of‑sale system for the golf course. The agenda lists these topics for consideration and discussion, with no decisions recorded. Standard items such as approval of minutes and staff reports are also included.

• Consideration of Tropix food trailer in the park
• Discussion of Little League contract
• Discussion of FY 2026 budget
• Discussion of Lightspeed point‑of‑sale system for the golf course

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will review its financial reports, the director’s progress, and committee updates. In a closed session, the board may vote on leasing, purchasing, or selling real estate, as permitted by state law. No other specific actions are detailed in the agenda.

• Financial Reports presentation
• Director’s Progress and Service Report
• Committee Reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations)
• Approve Notary Policy
• Closed‑session vote on real‑estate lease/purchase/sale

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will review the January 28, 2025 minutes and the claims report. Members will discuss renewal rates for dental and vision insurance and review job descriptions for the City Administrator and Assistant City Administrator.

• Dental and vision renewal rates
• City Administrator job description
• Assistant City Administrator job description
• Review and approval of the Claims Report

City Council

The Carthage City Council will vote on an ordinance amending the 2024-25 operating and capital budget for several funds. It will also consider an ordinance waiving a buyback option on a parcel in the Myers Park Subdivision. Additional items include a resolution keeping a public parking lot open for the Route 66 Market, mayoral board liaison appointments, and a possible closed‑session vote on personnel matters.

• C.B. 25-07 – Ordinance waiving the buyback option for Lot 2, Block 3 in Myers Park Subdivision
• C.B. 25-08 – Ordinance amending the Annual Operating and Capital Budget for FY 2024-2025 (General Fund, Use Tax Fund, Public Facilities Bond Fund)
• Resolution 2076 – Declares no intent to sell the public parking lot at 2nd and Howard Street and permits its use for Route 66 Market visitors
• Mayor’s Board Liaison appointments, including the Jasper County Extension Center
• Closed‑session portion to discuss hiring, firing, disciplining, or promoting city employees

Budget Ways & Means

The Budget Ways & Means Committee will meet on February 10, 2025. The committee will consider a budget adjustment for Fiscal Year 2024‑2025. It will also discuss an agreement with the Boots Court Foundation/Carthage Visitors Center and a five‑year capital plan for Information Technologies and Administration. No other business is listed.

• Consider budget adjustment for Fiscal Year 2024‑2025
• Consider agreement with the Boots Court Foundation/Carthage Visitors Center
• Discuss 5‑year capital plan for Information Technologies and Administration

Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Committee

The Planning, Zoning, and Historic Preservation Commission will review a Certificate of Appropriateness request to demolish a garage at 1427 Grand Ave. The commission will also discuss the status of a grant-related RFP. Routine items include approving minutes from the Dec. 5, 2024 meeting and reviewing public participation rules. The next meeting is scheduled for March 6, 2025.

• Certificate of Appropriateness request to demolish garage at 1427 Grand Ave.
• Discussion of RFP status for a grant.
• Approval of minutes from the Dec. 5, 2024 meeting.
• Review of public participation procedures for speakers.
• Scheduling of next meeting on March 6, 2025.

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will first consider and approve minutes from its previous meeting. It will then discuss a tree contribution offered by Bill Putnam Jr., plans for Arbor Day 2025, and a request for a memorial tree planting. The meeting also includes a citizen participation notice and standard staff reports.

• Consider and approve minutes from previous meeting
• Consider and discuss contribution for trees by Bill Putnam Jr.
• Consider and discuss Arbor Day 2025
• Consider and discuss memorial tree planting request

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will review a real estate contract for the Myers Park Subdivision and discuss a parking lot use agreement. Staff will also present a five-year capital plan.

• Review/Amend Council Bill 22-44: Real Estate Contract for Myers Park Subdivision with Faik Bilalli and Lumnije Bilalli
• Use Agreement for parking lot at 2nd & Howard
• Discussion of 5 year capital plan by Zeb Carney

City Council

The Carthage City Council will meet in a special closed session on Jan 30, 2025 via Zoom. The agenda indicates a possible vote to discuss leasing, purchase, or sale of real estate by the city, which is being kept confidential under RSMo 610.021. No specific transaction details are provided in the agenda.

• Potential vote on leasing, purchase, or sale of city real estate (details confidential)

General

The Police and Fire Pension Committee will first approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will then hear a quarterly report on the committee’s investment portfolio presented by Daniel Hepp. A lump‑sum pension payout update will be provided by Jennifer McHugh of CBIZ. The meeting will conclude with a training session.

• Accept minutes from previous meeting
• Quarterly report on investments – Daniel Hepp
• Lump‑sum payout update – Jennifer McHugh (CBIZ)
• Training session

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will review minutes and claims reports from the previous meeting. The group will also discuss job descriptions for several administrative assistant positions and consider donating Council Chambers desks to the City of Miller.

• Review and approve January 14, 2025 minutes
• Review and approve the Claims Report
• Discuss Parks Operations Assistant job description
• Discuss Fire Department Administrative Assistant job description
• Discuss donation of Council Chambers desks to the City of Miller

City Council

The City Council will vote on ordinances regarding police collective bargaining and a $39,061 bridge plan review. The body is also considering several resolutions for budget adjustments, grant acceptances, and the disposal of surplus city property.

• C.B. 25-06: Ordinance adopting provisions for collective bargaining with law enforcement personnel
• C.B. 25-04: $39,061 agreement with Missouri and Northern Arkansas Railroad Company Inc for McGregor St Bridge plan review
• C.B. 25-05: Acceptance of $87,000 in federal financial assistance for transit projects
• Resolution 2070: $10,658.25 supplemental budget adjustment for Paul Martin professional services
• Resolution 2071: Formal acceptance of an anonymous $10,000 donation

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss a contract for the Fraternal Order of Police and a proposal for the Tower 2 Tower Run. The body will also consider donating equipment to the Carthage R-9 School transportation system.

• Contract for the Fraternal Order of Police
• Tower 2 Tower Run Proposal from Megan Milliken CWEP
• Proposal to declare 3 Kenwood radios as surplus for Carthage R-9 School buses
• Discussion regarding a CPD Donation

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Plant Board is meeting for a strategic planning work session led by Danette Scudder. The session focuses on mission, vision, and action plans for 2025-2028. No formal action items or votes are expected.

• Strategic planning work session for 2025-2028
• SWOT analysis and employee feedback review
• Tour of the Missouri Public Utility Alliance office and training facility

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will meet to discuss several operational items including a grant application and a rental contract. The body will also review bids and job descriptions related to city services and parks.

• Grant application for Carthage Saddle Club
• Rental contract for Coroner office space
• Fair Acres Concession building bid
• Permission for food trailer during June Rodeo event
• Parks Operations Assistant job description

Carthage Water & Electric Board

The Carthage Water & Electric Board will approve the November 21, 2024 board minutes and authorize disbursements of $4,171,068.55 for November and $4,829,610.79 for December. Financial statements for November and December will be reviewed. New business includes a presentation by the CEO of the Carthage Economic Development Corporation, consideration of bids to repair Turbo on Engine #12, a proposal to reinstall Substation 2 Transformer, and a recommendation of Software as a Service.

• Approve board minutes from November 21, 2024
• Approve disbursements: $4,171,068.55 (Nov) and $4,829,610.79 (Dec)
• Consider bids for repair of Turbo on Engine #12
• Consider reinstalling Substation 2 Transformer
• Recommend Software as a Service

Public Library Board

The Carthage Public Library Board will consider the minutes from the prior meeting, financial reports, the director's progress report, and messages from the president and council liaison. Committee reports from Building, Budget, Community Relations, By-Laws, Library Gardens, ADA Compliance, Communications, and Compensation/Wages will be presented. The meeting also includes new business, payment of bills, and adjournment.

• Financial Reports
• Director’s Progress and Service Report
• Committee Reports (Building, Budget, Community Relations, By-Laws, Library Gardens, ADA Compliance, Communications, Compensation/Wages)
• New Business
• Payment of Bills

Insurance / Audit & Claims Committee

The Insurance/Audit and Claims Committee will meet to approve the December 10, 2024 meeting minutes and review the claims report. The committee will also consider and discuss the City of Carthage Wellness Packet, an updated salary schedule, and a Tourism/PIO job description. No decisions are recorded in the agenda beyond these discussions.

• Approval of December 10, 2024 minutes
• Review & approval of the claims report
• Consider and discuss the City of Carthage Wellness Packet
• Consider and discuss updated salary schedule
• Consider and discuss Tourism/PIO job description

City Council

The Carthage City Council meeting includes routine items such as minutes approval and public comments, and several emergency ordinances. Council members will consider a crop‑share lease for the South Economic Development Park, an agreement with Stronghold Data LLC for the Network & Host Project costing $155,663.90, an amendment to the ARPA fund budget, a plan‑review contract for the McGregor St Bridge worth $39,061, and acceptance of $87,000 in federal assistance for transit projects. The agenda also contains resolutions for supplemental budget adjustments and salary updates for city staff.

• C.B. 25-02 – Emergency ordinance authorizing $155,663.90 agreement with Stronghold Data LLC for the Network & Host Project
• C.B. 25-01 – Emergency ordinance authorizing a crop‑share farm lease with SB Farms at the South Economic Development Park
• C.B. 25-04 – Ordinance authorizing $39,061 plan‑review agreement with Missouri and Northern Arkansas Railroad Company Inc for the McGregor St Bridge
• C.B. 25-05 – Ordinance to accept $87,000 federal assistance for transit projects from the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission
• Resolution 2065 – Supplemental budget adjustment of $13,264 for the Network & Host Project IT capital outlay

Budget Ways & Means

The committee will discuss budget goals and the calendar for fiscal year 2025-26. Members will also review several agreements and budget adjustments, including items related to data services and infrastructure.

• Budget Goals and Budget Calendar FY 25-26
• Agreement and budget adjustment for Network and Host Project with Stronghold Data
• Budget Amendment Council Bill for ARPA Funds for FY 23-24 and FY 24-25
• McGregor Street Bridge Agreement with MNA Railroad
• Updated Salary Study

Tree Board

The Carthage Tree Board will review and approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will consider and discuss a tree replacement project for City Park and a request for a memorial tree. The board will also address citizen participation procedures and other routine business.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Consider and discuss City Park tree replacement project
• Consider and discuss Memorial tree request

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee meeting scheduled for January 7, 2025, was cancelled due to a lack of business.