SIKESTON -- While the main purpose of the Special City Council meeting was to deal with Sikeston's ordinance on the open carrying of a weapon, it didn't take long before another issue recycled into the discussion.
Capt. Mike Williams, director of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, explained following the General Assembly's override of former Governor Nixon's veto, Missouri residents since Jan. 1 are no longer required to obtain a permit prior to carrying a firearm. At Monday's council meeting, a bill was read for a second time to bring the city's ordinances into compliance with state laws.
According to Williams, in Sikeston it is still unlawful for a person to carry a concealed weapon, which would include not just a firearm but a knife, blackjack
or any other weapon capable of lethal use, into any area where they are restricted. Also the discharge or shooting of a firearm within the city limits remains illegal.
In response to a question from Mayor Stephen Burch, Williams said restricted areas are those which have a sign posted stating weapons are not allowed.
The Council unanimously approved the bill.
As Sikeston prepares to seek requests for proposals on its solid waste disposal services, several questions were posed on how the city should go about seeking ideas for recycling services, including whether the city should detail the services expected or ask the bidders for input. According to City Clerk Carroll Couch, the RFP could be written for the bidders to make suggestions on recycling.
Burch stated from an economic development standpoint, the recycling issue is important to the community. First, he said, it would cut down on littering.
"The trash floating around this community is pathetic," he added.
Also, Burch said, many corporations have goals and mandates to reduce their trash flow. For such a company considering locating in Sikeston, a recycling program must be in place, he said.
In response to a question about whether Sonny's Solid Waste, the city's current waste disposal company, makes money from recycled items, it was noted that currently the company pays to dispose of recyclables. It was also pointed out that if there is any contamination, the entire load is rejected by the recycler.
John Graham said while he is in favor of a recycling program, he would like to see a program educating people not to litter and much heftier fines for those caught littering.
Graham also voiced concerns about the political signs around town stating many are in violation of city ordinances and Missouri Department of Transportation rules about placement along roadway right-of-ways. He said some signs are creating safety issues by blocking sight lines.
"This needs to be addressed before someone gets hurt," Graham said.
He was advised a letter is being sent to the candidates detailing city ordinances on political signs.
In other action, the Council decided not participate in Missouri's Show Me Green sales tax holiday.
Also due to the Memorial Day holiday, the special city council meeting normally set for the last Monday of the month was rescheduled to May 22. The Council agreed at this time to cancel the July meeting which would be July 3.