The Lowry City Board of Aldermen met Tuesday evening, July 15, 2025, with several city matters on the agenda, including cemetery repair bills, tree removal bids, and planning for next year’s Fourth of July fireworks.
Mayor Patricia Landes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. East Ward Alderman Jackie Cutler, West Ward Aldermen Sean Langston and Shirley Edmunds were present. East Ward Alderman Charles Cone was absent. City Clerk John Farrell and Water/Wastewater Superintendent Josh Muller were also in attendance.
Before the regular session began, Alderman Cutler informed the board she would be unable to attend the closed session scheduled after the meeting. With Alderman Cone also absent, a quorum could not be established, and the closed session was cancelled.
Meeting Business Highlights:
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Minutes Approved: Both regular and closed session minutes from the June 16 meeting were approved unanimously.
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Cemetery Damage Repairs: The board reviewed bills including two discounted invoices from Wommack Monuments—$757 for a damaged bronze flower vase and $892 for a chipped marker. Wommack also offered to reseal three storm-toppled tablets at no charge. The board approved the bills and voted to revisit discussion on the cemetery damage at the August 19 meeting.
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Financials: Monthly financial reports through June 30 were reviewed and approved.
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Tax Levy Hearing Set: The board scheduled the annual tax levy public hearing for Tuesday, August 19, at 5:45 p.m., prior to the regular meeting.
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Propane Bids: No bids were received for the 2025–2026 propane contract. Will’s LP Gas currently provides propane service. No action was taken.
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Tree Removal Bids: Four bids were received for removing a tree at Lucas and Burdette Streets. Despite not being the lowest bid, the board unanimously awarded the job to Gary’s All Around Tree Trimming of Appleton City for $2,500.
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Fireworks Show Future: Mayor Landes suggested expanding next year’s city fireworks display, in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. This year’s show cost the city approximately $2,500 after $970 in donations were received. No decisions were made.
Department Reports:
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Police and Fire Departments: Police Chief Charles Hodges and Fire Chief Justin Norris were absent. Norris’ submitted report noted an uptick in medical and accident calls, as well as a vehicle firefighting class scheduled for Saturday, July 26, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., sponsored by MU Extension. Additionally, the Lowry City Fire Women’s Auxiliary will host “Christmas in July” on Friday, July 18, at the Civic Center.
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Public Works: Josh Muller reported a new bulk water sales dispenser was installed and recent work was completed at the southwest lift station.
With no further business, the meeting adjourned by unanimous vote.
The next regular meeting of the Lowry City Board of Aldermen is scheduled for August 19, 2025.
