Marion County Commission Advances Infrastructure Projects, Installs Officials, and Honors Retiring Commissioner
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send you a password reset link.
PALMYRA, Mo. — The Marion County Commission addressed a wide range of financial, operational, and administrative matters in its Dec. 27, 2024, and Jan. 13, 2025, meetings, including approving funding allocations, infrastructure plans, and appointments, while honoring retiring Western District Commissioner Steve Begley for nearly five decades of service.
December 27 Meeting Highlights:
ARPA Fund Transfers: The commission approved transferring $250,000 from the county’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to a medical deductible account to offset healthcare expenses and allocated $120,777 for veterans lighting projects aimed at honoring and supporting local veterans.
Swearing-In Ceremony: The commission conducted a formal swearing-in ceremony for newly elected officials, including:
Lacey Miller as Western District Commissioner
Larry Welch as Eastern District Commissioner
Jimmy Shinn as Sheriff
Wendy W. Howe as Public Administrator
Richard Jones as Coroner
Jason Janes as Surveyor
These officials will serve four-year terms beginning Jan. 1, 2025.
Recognition of Steve Begley: The commission celebrated retiring Commissioner Begley for his 47 years of service, including nearly 40 years with the Highway Department and eight years as Western District Commissioner. Begley received commendations from state legislators, a plaque, and a resolution. Commissioner Lomax praised Begley for his humor, dedication, and leadership, and Begley expressed gratitude, noting he remains just “a phone call away.”
Budget Preparations: The commission scheduled the 2025 Marion County budget meeting for Jan. 3, 2025, and announced that regular meetings would resume Jan. 6.
January 13 Meeting Highlights:
Financial Approvals: The commission approved payroll for Dec. 22, 2024, through Jan. 4, 2025, along with financial reports and tax book updates for December 2024. Fees collected during December by various offices totaled $41,641.77, including $9,856.05 by the Sheriff’s Office and $12,663.21 by the Public Administrator.
Liquor License Approval: The commission renewed a liquor license for LA Azotea Lounge LLC for July 2024 through June 2025.
Mark Twain Regional Council of Governments Appointments: Commissioner Lacey Miller was appointed to represent Marion County on several boards overseen by the council, replacing former Commissioner Begley. These boards meet three times annually.
Whitaker Bridge Project:
The commission opened RFQ (request for qualifications) proposals for construction inspection on the Whitaker Bridge project, selecting Great River Engineering for the role. This marks a significant step forward in the county’s infrastructure improvement efforts.
Courthouse Operations:
The commission approved purchasing an Ace Hardware 28 Ego Snow Blower for $1,940 to maintain the Palmyra Courthouse.
Discussions included upgrades to the courthouse offices, such as new blinds, repairs for security concerns, and painting for judicial chambers.
The installation of new carpet squares for the Hannibal Courthouse is expected to begin soon.
Highway Department Updates: The commission approved a work shadowing opportunity through the School Work Flex Program, allowing a student to gain experience while being paid by the county. The Highway Supervisor also reported staffing adjustments due to an employee’s medical leave.
Additional Notes:
The commission held a closed session on Jan. 13 to discuss personnel matters under Missouri law. No public results were released.
The Marion County Commission’s next meeting is scheduled for
Related Posts
