Hannibal BPW General Manager Bob Stevenson says more time—and data—are needed to determine the best method of replacing chloramines in the water supply.

Stevenson updated the Hannibal City Council Tuesday evening.  He says testing is ongoing using GAC (Granulated Activated Carbon) as part of the disinfection process.  One issue is determining how long the carbon will last before requiring replacement.  Stevenson says simulation tests currently ongoing may not produce consistent data, due to variables such as water temperature.  The best GAC study will likely be the pilot test underway in real time at the Water Treatment Plant.

While GAC may prove to be the most efficient alternative, other disinfection methods are still under consideration, including a more costly one--ozone. It is hoped test results due back in 4-6 weeks will provide some answers.

In other council business:

  • A Resolution of Support is approved for the St. Elizabeth Hospital renovation project. Hilltide and Belmont Partners are proposing to redevelop the vacant building into senior apartments.  A similar endorsement was given by the Marion County Commission on Monday.
  • Street Department Supervisor Mike McHargue presented a compelling case for purchasing a machine that keeps asphalt hot until it is all used, thus eliminating waste when left over product becomes too cold to use. The machine has an added advantage of being able to recycle new or used ground-out asphalt.  McHargue says the asphalt machine would pay for itself over time.  The council voted to solicit bids for the machine, estimated to cost $26,000.
  • Hannibal Convention and Visitor's Bureau Director Gail Bryant received approval for the design and printing of the 2018 Visitor Guide.  Next to Nothing Designs will design the brochure at at cost of $4580.  Poole Communications is awarded the printing contract at a cost of $26,337.
  • A Public Hearing is set for 6:45 p.m., November 7 in council chambers just prior to the regular council session.  Jim Mulhern is requesting annexation of property located at 9298 County Road 416. The proposed zoning would be One and Two Family Housing.

Two agenda items received First Readings:

  • A Bill approving the issuance of $65 million in industrial revenue bonds for the General Mills expansion project. The deal will give tax abatement incentives to the company. City Manager Jeff LaGarce says the bond issuance does not affect the city's debt limit.
  • A Bill setting a spring Municipal Election for  April 3, 2018.  Voters will cast ballots for Municipal Judge, 1st Ward Council member, and 3rd Ward council member.

More From KHMO-AM 1070, News-Talk-Sports