Second bridge at Germania to be closed

The county was able to sell some of its surplus equipment for about $30,000 more than expected, according to reports heard at the May 22 meeting of the St. Francois County Commission.

County Road Department Supervisor Wendell Jarvis reported the county’s online auction sale brought in about $249,000 for the county, $18,000 of which was paid in fees to the online auction company.

Jarvis said they had hoped the items would sell for about $219,000.

“We had buyers from all over,” Jarvis said. “Maryland, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Kalamazoo and Potosi. I’m extremely happy with the way it went, and I think we got top dollar.”

The sale included a variety of surplus items, including some dump trucks, rubber tire rollers, a drill press, highlift trailer and backhoe.

“We still have a broom truck to sell,” Jarvis said. “It’s the only item that has not sold. Everything else was above and beyond what was expected.”

In other reports, Associate Commissioner Patrick Mullins reported the second bridge at Germania in the Terre du Lac area will be closed about five weeks for repairs starting June 4.

The exact time will depend on weather conditions. Motorists are asked to use the Stony Point Road detour while the bridge work is being completed.

Associate Commissioner Bret Burgess reported that Busiek Road has been paved as well as the entrance areas of Stand Creek and Route F.

“We’re making some good progress this year,” Burgess said. “We have a lot more to do, but appreciate the willingness to get it done.”

Burgess also had some appreciation for a recent donation by the Nancy Weber Garden Club, which gave the county a $200 check toward landscaping costs for the annex property.

This is the first of what Burgess hopes will be several donations from area garden clubs for the county’s landscaping plans.

“If everyone can pitch in just a little bit, it won’t be a big burden to county or taxpayers,” Burgess said. “I really appreciate the Nancy Weber Garden Club. I appreciate any donations by folks in our area who would like to contribute.”

Burgess said he would like to have small signs placed identifying the various contributors once the landscaping project is complete.

Commissioners appointed Patricia Burch and Richard Jones to the St. Francois County Board for the Developmentally Disabled, listened to a report from Colonial Life on free services it offers, and waived penalty and interest for a property owned by Daniel Chapman.

Renee Jean can be reached at 573-431-2010 ext. 117 or rjean@dailyjournalonline.com