Officer Schaible Sworn In as City Council Addresses Drainage, Infrastructure, and Resident Concerns
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The Palmyra City Council met this week to address a wide range of community issues, from infrastructure projects to personnel changes and policy updates. The meeting began with the approval of the agenda and consent agenda.
A major topic of discussion was a drainage issue on a local property. While property owner Joe Schaffer agreed with the city’s proposed plan, he expressed doubts it would resolve the problem. The Street Department noted a kink in the waterway and is working toward a solution. Straightening the route will prevent runoff from affecting a neighboring property. Department representatives will speak directly with the affected property owner, with work slated to begin in fall 2025.
Officer Katherine Schaible was sworn into the Palmyra Police Department. The council also approved Resolution #2025-09, authorizing a loan for a police squad vehicle.
The Personnel Committee reviewed results from the recent employee satisfaction survey, identifying a need for improved policies, procedures, benefits, and appreciation. Recommendations included enhancing time-off benefits, introducing a 403 retirement plan, and exploring the option of increasing vacation allowances.
The council approved a Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant contract for easement plats and descriptions for permanent easements. The mayor signed the agreement.
An IT contract with McClain Consulting LLC was also approved, with plans to schedule work to address technical issues in every department. The council additionally approved the cost of training and a licensing agreement for the Board of Public Works.
The first reading of Bill 1657, an ordinance to amend and incorporate the improvement sales tax into the city code, was held.
The Finance Committee met regarding the TAP grant and discussed funding improvements for the east and west sides of Main Street, with a goal to begin water-related projects next year.
First Ward Council Member Brock Fahy raised concerns about residents receiving unusually high utility bills, with some exceeding $700, due to meter issues. While paying online is encouraged, many residents avoid the 4% fee. The City Clerk suggested setting up direct withdrawal by providing a voided check at City Hall, which would incur no fee and process on the 12th of each month.
Second Ward Council Member Clay Thornburg reported filing a complaint with MoDOT regarding a recent patch job on U.S. 61. MoDOT’s response was deemed underwhelming, and the council decided not to pursue the matter further.
Third Ward Council Member Earl Meyers shared neighborhood concerns about a dispute over an alleyway. The council recommended that the matter be handled as a civil dispute, with police involvement if necessary. Meyers also recommended budgeting in 2026 for rehabilitation of the City Hall roof, which has no current leaks.
Additionally, Meyers raised concerns about lawn clippings being blown into streets, which can clog drains and create hazardous conditions for motorists. The city currently enforces a 48-hour debris ordinance, but Meyers suggested creating a specific ordinance with stricter penalties for grass clippings.
The Taylor Fire Station is now operational and has received its fire truck, previously stored in Palmyra. The station, staffed entirely by volunteers, currently has one applicant and is seeking more.The Parks Department is awaiting quotes for a kitchen remodel. Council members questioned whether, after three unsuccessful bidding periods, the project could legally be awarded to a relative without violating nepotism laws.Following consultation with a contractor, the council determined that, due to staffing limitations in the Board of Public Works and Street Department, Palmyra lacks the capacity to construct a new subdivision at this time.
Connor Smith was appointed to the Park Board, and Eddy Kamm was appointed to the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) Board.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 21.
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