Three Priorities in Hannibal’s Future

City Manager Jeff LaGarce says the city plans to tackle three major projects in the next 5 years. The Hannibal City Council approved the 5-year capital improvement plan Tuesday evening.  The priorities are:

• Street Improvements
• The $5.4 Million Riverfront Development
• A new facility and location for the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

LaGarce told the council the fiscally-disciplined plan is a planning guide for the years 2017-2022.  Other items making the plan include police equipment and vehicles, and firefighting gear.

The council also set dates for discussing the 2017-18 budget:

• May 17: Budget workshop for city officials.
• June 6: Public Hearing to be held at 6:45 p.m.
• June 20: Council gives the budget a final reading.

In other business:

• The council gave a first reading to a bill which would remove two ordinances: One involves exhibition of dangerous weapons, the other relates to the charge of promoting prostitution.  City Attorney James Lemon says the ordinances were very similar to language in state law.  A bill passed by the Missouri legislature gives the state total legal authority in these two areas, thereby preempting local ordinances.
• Hannibal Parks and Recreation received approval to purchase 20 new picnic tables from the low bidder Fry and Associates in Kansas City. The purchase price for the tables comes in just over $26,000.  Third Ward Council Member Melissa Cogdal commended Parks Director Andy Dorian for including handicapped-accessible tables in the purchase.