Bismarck discusses fireworks, budget, water meters

BISMARCK — The Bismarck Board of Aldermen approved a bid from Bonne Terre Waterworks for the purchase of new meters during its meeting on Thursday. Bonne Terre Waterworks’ bid of $90,000 was the lowest of three. Mayor Dennis Mayberry said the other two bids were for $105,000 and $106,000 respectfully.

Bendi Dunn was scheduled to address the board about vacating property at 1602 Cedar. Mayberry said Dunn couldn’t attend the meeting so the board tabled her request.

“We are going to schedule a special meeting because the board needs to ask Ms. Dunn some questions,” Mayberry said.

Steven Dickey asked to use the community building for a fundraiser. The board agreed to allow Dickey to use the building, but said he would have to pay the rental fee.

Mayberry told the board the storm sirens are still not working properly.

“I am in the process of sending a letter to Alan Wells and the company that installed the sirens to get a meeting scheduled so that we can all get together and fix the problem,” he said.

Business licenses for Mega-Tan and Hale Fireworks were approved. The proposed holidays for 2009-2010 were also approved.

The board approved a new ordinance that will correct and amend the fence regulation ordinance.

“This ordinance clarifies the boundaries of where fences can go,” Mayberry said. “A word in the previous ordinance was causing us some grief.”

The city’s policy for discharging fireworks was also approved. Fireworks can be shot off July 2-6 up until 10:30 p.m. each day. Bottle rockets and 3-inch shells or bigger are prohibited.

During the committee reports, the finance committee said the city’s new budget would be finalized on July 1. The board gave approval for the police department to purchase an in-car video camera at a cost of $300. Mayberry said the camera normally costs approximately $6,000.

The board also approved the purchase and installation of two “children at play” signs. The signs will be placed on Merle and Plainview.

In closed session the board discussed legal matters, but no action was taken.

Chris Cline is a reporter for the Daily Journal. Contact him at 573-431-2010, ext. 114 or at ccline@dailyjournalonline.com.