New Council Member Takes Oath in Hannibal

Alan Bowen began his duties Tuesday evening as Hannibal's new 4th Ward councilman. In April, voters chose Bowen to replace James VanHoose, who did not seek reelection. Mayor Hark presented outgoing Councilman VanHoose with a plaque of appreciation for his service to the city.

In addition to Bowen, two incumbents who won reelection also took the Oath of Office administered by Municipal Judge Donald Bastian: Mayor James Hark and 2nd Ward Councilman/ Mayor Pro Tem Michael Dobson.

In other city business:
Job Restructuring Affects Four City Positions

Parks and Recreation Director Andy Dorian will become Director of Central Services, responsible for management of Parks and Recreation and the Street Department.
Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Aron Lee will become Assistant Director of Central Services-Parks Division, with no modification in duties.
Parks Secretary Jessica Rosenkranz will be reclassified as Parks Secretary/Fiscal Assistant with duties split between Parks and Rec, Finance, and the Collector’s Office.
The Department of Public Works Superintendent position has been eliminated. The position was returned to Street Department Supervisor, but now updated to the title of Assistant Director of Central Services-Street Division. Former DPW Superintendent Mike McHargue will assume the role.

Medical Marijuana Zoning Bill Approved
Randall Crawford from the Missouri Hemp Improvement Company spoke to the council regarding medical marijuana facilities and the zoning bill before the council. Crawford likened a marijuana dispensary to a pharmacy, only much more heavily regulated by the state. Crawford says a marijuana business would probably be the most monitored, secure, and regulated business in town. Only patients with doctor approval would be admitted into a dispensary.

The council approved a zoning bill that comports with Missouri law; allowing the establishment of medical marijuana-related businesses only in commercial and industrial zones and not within 400 feet of the property line of a church, school, or daycare.

City Wide Cleanup Approved
Hannibal’s City-Wide cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Location for drop-off will be South Main Street. Republic Services will provide disposal services at a minimum cost of $44,550.

$1 Lease Agreements Between City and Canton Marine
Two related resolutions are approved regarding the riverfront :
A one-year agreement will allow Canton Marine and Towing to dock at the Hannibal riverfront, adjusting their access based on riverfront construction. The second agreement will allow the city to construct a temporary boat ramp for the 2019 season on property owned by Canton Marine, near Scipio Marina. Both leases are for $1.