CITY OF JACKSON UPDATE

The council has passed the adoption of an emergency operations plan for the city of Jackson. Councilman Dave Hitt and Fire Chief Gary Niswonger worked very hard to complete our city's first official emergency plan. It details who would be in charge of various activities and where we would go for assistance in case of an earthquake, tornado or other natural disaster. We certainly hope this plan never has to be used, but if necessary the city will now be better prepared to deal with a severe emergency.

Jackson's semi-annual fix-up, clean-up week was a huge success. More old appliances, furniture, tires and other items were collected than ever before. We are happy to offer this twice-a-year service to our citizens to help keep Jackson clean and better serve our citizens.

Employee of the Month is Mike Nall of our sanitation department. Mike works hard to keep up with our increasing solid waste demands.

Memorial Day has passed, but not without a lot of excitement and activities. The communities of Cape Girardeau and Jackson both held various ceremonies to honor our veterans who have served our country with pride and dignity. I am proud to be a part of a town that takes such pride in recognizing the contribution our local veterans have made in securing our continued freedom.

Along with the Memorial Day services, the Olympic torch came to town. From the time the torch arrived in Cape Girardeau and continued through Jackson, many people lined the streets to show pride and respect for the Olympics and the local runners who participated in carrying the torch. The torch coming through here on its way to Atlanta was certainly an historic event we will not forget. I recently signed a proclamation making May 27 Olympic Torch Relay Day in Jackson.

Our drug-detecting dog is in Cape Girardeau County and is presently being trained. We are on course for the K-9 unit under the direction of Officer Shawn Davis to be in full swing by this fall.

Congratulations to all the 1996 Jackson High School graduates and best of luck to all of you.

We recently purchased the equipment for our new East Jackson electric substation. The substation will be in operation by late fall and will ensure quality electric service to our present and future citizens.

The council meets every Monday night at 7:30 p.m. Your ideas and suggestions are welcome to make our town a better place. Remember, we work for you; let us know what you think could help our growing city.

Paul Sander is the mayor of Jackson.