Council OKs 2005 budget

SIKESTON -- The Sikeston City Council approved a new budget and an increase in City staff at a special meeting this morning.

With the new budget, which will take effect on July 1, revenues are estimated to be $10.9 million and anticipated expenditures for all funds to be $10.3 million.

The Council also established staffing and compensation levels for the City's 132 employees beginning on July 1. Under this measure, staffing levels will increase within the Department of Public Safety by creating the position of communications supervisor. Also eight additional officers will be hired along with two part-time employees that have been added to the Sikeston Park Department.

In other business, councilmen were briefed on the vacant lot at 1312 Murray Lane which the owners, Bernice and Grady Evans, are wanting to donate to the city. At this time, Director of Public Works Tom Bridger, along with Chuck Leible, city councilman, are working on the project. The issue will be brought back before the Council at a later date.

Council also amended the property maintenance ordinance, making some administrative changes.