The City of California Board of Aldermen reviewed and approved the city's April 1, 2020-March 31, 2021 budget at its meeting Monday.
The City Council also heard from Holly Bieri, representing the Oak Street Farmer's Market, at the beginning of the meeting. Bieri informed city officials about a new "Ready, Set, Grow!" 5K the planning group hopes to have coincide with the start of the farmer's market season. It's set to take place at 7 a.m. May 2. The Council approved the presented running route and gave the OK for any city supervisors whose feedback would be needed to work with organizers as they plan.
The Council also heard from Brandon Garber, representing Commerce Bank, about some changes to the city's general fund account that would help it to accrue more interest. Garber said the city essentially could set a "peg" in its account, using $2 million as an example threshold. Any money in the account at the end of each day over that amount would funnel into an investment account, where it can accrue interest overnight and then be added back into the general fund account the next day. The Council approved making such a change to its general fund account.
The Council approved an ordinance adopting new parking restrictions near the Moniteau County Library, allowing it to add a handicapped parking space near the building.
In department reports, Wastewater Supervisor Patrick Murphy said the Department of Natural Resources has approved the permit the city has been working to get approved. The permit is valid for five years. The department's aeration basin project also remains postponed.
California Police Department chief Daniel Hurt briefed city officials on the training officers have been undertaking in the past month. All CPD officers are now certified following breathalyzer training, and other trainings are on the docket for the month ahead. Hurt said officers Phillip Adam and Ralph Parris, honored at the December City Council meeting with Life Saving Awards, are set to be recognized at the Capitol by Rep. Sara Walsh soon. Hurt also introduced new officer Kevin Morse, hired last month, at the start of Monday's meeting.
Street Supervisor Victor Maurer said spring street cleanup will be set for April 6-8.
City employees are also set to undertake mandatory diversity and harrassment training later this month.
The City Council's next regular meeting will take place at 7 p.m. April 6.