The City of California Board of Aldermen cut ties with Greyhound Lines during its March 6 meeting.
New business opened with an appearance from Sakelaris Ford general manager Keith Marlett to discuss issues regarding Greyhound Lines bus stop and its passengers in California.
"We have had a few occasions where we've had some people come over from the bus stop and sleeping in our cars and leaving trash," Marlett told the board. "We've locked our cars but now we're having some concerns from employees and customers that there are people coming on the lot asking for money for cigarettes and for things like that."
Marlett said employees have asked these individuals to leave the premises and directed them to where they would be able to find resources if needed.
Board members approved a motion from Ward 3 Alderman Lanny Ash giving Greyhound Lines 30 days notice to cease services in California.
Two representatives from Architects Alliance Inc., also appeared at this month's meeting to discuss leaking issues within California City Hall as well as building repairs. In a previous Democrat article, the company determined city hall was built without flashing, material used to prevent water leakage in a structure, and with no moisture barriers behind the siding.
Roofing consultant Robert Boessen gave the board a report on the damage and recommended a contractor who could work on this project for the city.
Boessen solicited from at least three different contractors and chose Missouri Builders Service out of Jefferson City as the lowest and best option for the city. Although, due to scheduling from the constructor, the start time for the project is currently undetermined.
Members approved hay bids corresponding with South Lagoon, North Lagoon, Herman Farm and Industrial Park. The board approved the following:
- $6,300 bid from Gene Haile Excavating Inc., for the South Lagoon.
- $1,400 bid from Charley Cary for the North Lagoon.
- $1,450 from Johnathan Traschel for Herman Farm.
- $80 from Johnathan Traschel for Industrial Park.
The board spent much of its meeting discussing the city's budget for 2023-2024. Several changes and alterations to the budget were suggested by members, however, no measure was confirmed. Board members will meet for special sessions on March 20 and 27 prior the budget's finalization before April 1.