Residents to See Slight Increase in Utilities after Winter Storm

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Minutes Submitted

  The Shelbina City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at city hall.

  A motion was seconded and approved to approve the agenda.

Special Announcements:

  A motion was seconded and approved to approve Mary McCoy serving on the Golf Board Committee as a member.

Approval of Consent Agenda:

A motion was seconded and approved to approve the consent agenda items.

  New Business:

  A motion was seconded and approved to advertise mowing bids for the City Office and Pool.

  City Clerk Jordan Mahaffey presented a video advertisement that will play at Hawkins theater. A motion was seconded and approved for the advertisement.

James Simpson arrived at the meeting at 5:37 p.m.

  Superintendent Brian Fifer gave an update on the TAPS Grant stating that right-of-way documents

are currently being prepared. The city anticipates in approximately three weeks beginning to obtain

easements. Fifer and MoDOT will work to finalize the right-of-way requirements. Lori from MoDOT

will be coming to town, and all easement documents will need to be signed and notarized. There is

consideration about holding one evening meeting at City Hall and sending a letter to all affected

property owners to inform them of the process.

  Old Business:

  A motion was seconded and approved to purchase a replacement door for the community room as it is greatly needed. All voted in favor, with James Simpson abstaining.

  There was further discussion regarding selling beer at the golf course, the purchases that would need to be made, staffing requirements for the liquor license and the plan for the Summer of 2026. A motion was seconded and approved to have a special meeting with the Council and the Golf Committee on March 3rd at 6 p.m.

  Budget Report:

  Council inquired about the impact of Winter Storm Fern on utility rates. Superintendent Brian Fifer reported that, after discussions with MPUA, the weather event resulted in a 4–7 percent increase in costs to the city. Customers will see a slight increase over the next five to six months, as the additional cost will be averaged out during that time.

  The city uses a rolling six-month average to determine electric rates for residents. Depending on individual usage and conservation efforts, customers may see an increase slightly higher or lower than the 4–7%. The city has already paid the increased cost in a single payment.

Department Reports:

  Mayor Al Dimmitt stated there is going to be an annual dinner for Shelby County Economic Development on March 19 and all merchants in the county are invited. Dimmitt also stated there was a budget meeting with other SCED members last week.

  City Attorney Jim McConnell reported that one or more convenience stores are selling synthetic substances marketed as opioid-like or THC products. He stated that these products are packaged in a way that appeals to children, are manufactured substances, and may not respond to Narcan. He advised that the products are unregulated and present a concern. Other communities are exploring measures to limit or prevent sales, particularly to younger individuals, and he asked whether the Council would like to consider options to address the issue. The Council stated they would like him to look into the issue further and determine what options may be available to address it.

  McConnell also stated that he would be prepared for the March 10th Planning and Zoning Hearing

and would complete the necessary edits, including adding provisions related to mobile homes. The

pole ordinance, alley ordinance, and the agreement with the county remain incomplete.

  Officer Breanna Kadow gave the Council the police report and stated they are going to be more vigilant regarding drug activity and will begin documenting suspicious activity to track potential trends. The last police cruiser is expected to be completed by this Friday. The rodeo has secured $11,700 in sponsorships to date; however, they have several places to contact regarding sponsorship opportunities. They are still seeking food vendors for the event.

  Clerk Mahaffey gave her report to the Council, stating that all end-of-year taxes have been processed. She reported that a meeting was held with the auditors and that the office has been

busy preparing for the opening of the campgrounds, golf course, and pool.

  Superintendent Fifer gave his report to the Council, stating that a sewer tap was completed for a resident. Crews have been busy with plowing and snow removal, as well as addressing several water leaks located in meter pits or on the customer side. Work continues on cleaning up the old sewer plant to help prevent illegal dumping. The old tennis court at the pool has been removed. Staff have also been occupied with equipment maintenance, completing job orders, and installing two new gas services. Altorfer is expected to be onsite by the end of the month to assess damage to the Power Plant. Units 3, 5, and 6 are currently online.

  Closed Session:

  A motion was seconded and approved to hire Lenny Benstine for the Lead Water Plant Operator In-Training at wages and benefits discussed.

  A motion was seconded and approved to hire Hazel Willey for the Golf Course at wages and benefits discussed.