The Lowry City Board of Aldermen met for their regular session Tuesday evening at City Hall, with Mayor Patricia Landes calling the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Aldermen Sean Langston, Shirley Edmunds, Charles Cone, and Jackie Cutler were in attendance, along with key city staff and several community members.
After the Pledge of Allegiance, the board swiftly approved minutes from the April 15 regular and closed sessions, reviewed and approved current bills, and accepted financial reports for the month ending April 31.
New Business Highlights:
-
Insurance Renewal: Chad Mullins with Mike Keith Insurance presented the city’s MOPERM insurance renewal. The board unanimously approved the $37,112 proposal, an increase from last year’s $31,880 premium. A Cushman cart noted in the policy is set to be removed from coverage and may be sold.
-
Tree Removal Bid: After reviewing seven bids to remove a tree at 2nd and Blaine, the board awarded the contract to Gary Eaton of Gary’s All Around Tree Trimming for the low bid of $2,000.
-
Trust Donation: The city received a $5,000 unrestricted donation from the Vera Lucille Clayton Trust for cemetery use. The board agreed to send a thank-you note to the family.
-
Community Organization Update: Although no representatives were present, the board recognized the success of the Spring Craft Fair on May 10 and praised the turnout at the fire department women’s auxiliary car show.
-
Storm Response: The board expressed deep appreciation for the volunteer efforts following the May 19 storms. Residents, firefighters, city staff, and outside crews helped clear roads and debris through the night. A company formerly known as Champion Brands in Clinton offered donated chainsaw supplies.
-
Globe Life Insurance Presentation: Employees will be allowed to hear a presentation about life insurance options offered through payroll deduction, with no cost to the city.
-
Budget Meeting Scheduled: The board set a budget preparation meeting for Monday, June 16, to discuss the upcoming fiscal year.
Department Reports:
-
Fire Department: Fire Chief Justin Norris provided updates on the May 19 storms, confirming that three EF1 tornadoes touched down near the city. He urged the public to verify emergency situations before contacting dispatch and explained the limitations of the city’s siren system. The board approved up to $1,300 to purchase 10 pairs of new structural firefighting gloves. Norris also shared the need for a replacement brush truck and discussed ongoing training room renovations.
-
Public Works: Superintendent Josh Muller reported damage to a cemetery vase and plans for repair after Memorial Day. He discussed a resident’s request for an “autistic child at play” sign, noting it must be placed on private property. Muller also praised community efforts during storm cleanup and committed to having the cemetery ready for Memorial Day.
-
Police Department: Police Chief Charles Hodges was unable to attend due to storm damage at his home.
With no further business, the meeting adjourned on a motion from Edmunds and a second from Langston.
The next budget planning session is scheduled for June 16, and the board will reconvene for its next regular meeting in June.
