Board of Aldermen meeting recap

by Cole Arndorfer
 
The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met Monday, April 8th, approving fireworks permits, three new resolutions, and taking action on one item under ordinances.
 
Two groups submitted applications for fireworks permits: the Grain Valley Band Parents Association and the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce FBO Grain Valley Boy Scouts. Both groups had all necessary paperwork and the board approved their applications.
 
Next, the board moved into resolutions. The first resolution the board approved allows the city to execute an agreement with All Pro Asphalt & Maintenance to provide an edge mill and asphalt overlay to streets as previously planned.
 
The second approved resolution allows the city to execute an agreement with Quality Custom Concepts for this year’s concrete replacement and paving program. This will allow the city to replace damaged curbs and sidewalks, update ADA ramps, and create new sidewalks.
 
Finally, the Board approved a resolution for the Midwest Public Risk 2024-2025 plan elections and rates for employee health, dental, and vision benefits. This allows the city to offer health, dental, and vision insurance coverage to city employees and their families.
 
Following resolutions, the board considered an ordinance to amend the city code regarding to public safety as well as peace disturbance in relation to construction.
 
The practice in the city has long been that permitted construction is allowed from 7 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday, except with permission to work later in the evening or on weekends. City Administrator Ken Murphy said that previously there had not been an ordinance that backs up this practice and this is aimed at officially putting it in writing through the city code.
 
The main spirit of this ordinance, Murphy explained, is to reduce instances of peace disturbance in residential areas by commercial construction projects. It is not meant to hinder residents from home improvement projects which may not even require a permit.
 
The first read of the bill was approved. The lone nay vote on the approval was Alderman Arnold, who made a motion to postpone the second reading of the ordinance, which ultimately failed. Arnold cited public trust as his reasoning for wishing to postpone. He said that introducing and passing the ordinance in one night with some questions still surrounding it may come off as shady to some constituents and he would have liked to clarify some of the points in the ordinance.
 
Following the failed motion to postpone, the ordinance was brought back for its second reading by title only. After brief discussion from Alderman Arnold, the board officially approved the ordinance by a vote of 4-2.

The board then heard a report from Parks and Recreation Director, Shannon Davies. In Davies’ report, he said that the new all-inclusive playground is now open to the public and the department has set the date for the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony as Saturday, April 20th at 10 am.
 
The next Board of Aldermen meeting will be held at 6:30pm on Monday, April 22nd at City Hall.