Hannibal City Council Discusses Property and Pigeon Plans

(Hannibal)—The Hannibal City Council considers a number of issues Tuesday evening ranging from a new pigeon abatement strategy to possibilities for a newly acquired property.

Plans for the old Murphy Motors building on Main Street may not include the wrecking ball after all, as it was revealed at Tuesday’s City Council meeting that a surprising amount of interest exists in purchasing the structure. The City plans to solicit written proposals including price and planned use.

A solution to the pigeon problem in the downtown area takes flight, as the Council approves a $5500 contract with Big River Pest Control to trap the birds live and take them to a breeder.

Emergency Management Director John Hark receives approval of a bid waiver regarding upgrades to the City’s 16 warning sirens to meet new Federal requirements. Hark says retaining Global Technology Systems is more efficient as they are familiar with the City’s system. The $35,000 upgrade also has computer monitoring of sirens which quickly pinpoints any failures.

In other business, the Council approves a Missouri Tourism $5,000 matching marketing grant for the Hannibal Convention and Visitors Bureau. Gail Bryant, HCVB Director, presented a certificate of appreciation to Michael Gaines of the Hannibal Arts Council for the big success of the most recent Folklife Festival. Gaines in turn thanked the various departments of the City for their continuing support of festival events.

Jennifer Foster of the Jaycees received approval to hold a Toys for Tots parade on December 1st in downtown Hannibal .

The refinancing of 2008 Bonds is approved as well as the revision of the Handicap Parking Policy.

U.S. Bank receives a one-year renewable contract to serve as the depository bank for the City.

The Council’s next meeting is December 4th.