Sikeston City Council approves drainage improvements’ application

SIKESTON, Mo. — The Sikeston City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 5 and Sikeston Mayor Greg Turnbow mentioned the Sikeston Jaycees’ rodeo, which runs Wednesday, Aug. 7 through Saturday, Aug. 10.

“If you haven’t noticed yet, the 72nd Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo is this week,” Turnbow said. “And if there is anything we can do to help clean up the town, let’s do it. Let’s make sure we are very presentable for our guests in town this week.”

Turnbow also reminded those in attendance about the Tuesday, Aug. 6 Primary Election.

“Don’t forget to vote tomorrow for the election; there are a lot of candidates running so please make sure to vote,” Turnbow said. 

In action by the council on Tuesday, members approved an application for drainage improvements in phases one and two.

“The purpose of this public hearing is to discuss the city’s intent to apply for financial assistance to help with proposed drainage improvements within the Sikeston area,” said Jay Lancaster, city of Sikeston public works director.  

According to Lancaster, the city has hired Mitzi Dell to prepare project applications for the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s Community Block Grant Program.

Lancaster said here are two project applications for proposed drainage improvements. 

“Phase one will cover drainage improvements along Applegate Extended and Linn Street to Lateral B,” Lancaster said. “This project is estimated to be $1,036,800 with the city contributing $159,400 cash with notification by December 2024.

Lancaster continued: “Phase two will cover drainage improvement in the Applegate ditch from Tanner to the existing end of the pipe. This project is estimated to be $806,000, with the city contributing $159,400 in cash with the grant requesting $646,600.”

Lancaster said both project applications would be submitted and reviewed in early September, with a potential award notification by December.

Lancaster said if awarded, an environmental assessment of the area will be conducted to ensure there is no significant environmental impact. Construction could start as early as this spring.

Also on Tuesday, Council approved regular council minutes from July 1 and July 29.