Commission takes steps toward Sunshine training

The Cape Girardeau County Commission unanimously agreed to provide Sunshine Law handbooks to each of the county's advisory board members and department heads.

At least 90 people serve in volunteer capacities on county boards, according to commission assistant Donna Oldham.

Second District Commissioner Jay Purcell had vigorously tried to persuade Presiding Commissioner Gerald Jones and 1st District Commissioner Larry Bock to agree to classes run by Missouri Attorney General's office, but Bock said he didn't think volunteer board members would agree to attend.

The commissioners made it clear they were not addressing a lawsuit Purcell filed in May asking for Sunshine Law training for the commission.

His attorney, J.P. Clubb, said he is "communicating and exchanging information" with the county's attorney but that no court date had been set.

The commission also:

• Reappointed Pat McKee to County Welfare Commission Board.
• Extended the grant period on the tire recycling program.
• Approved Circuit Court Clerk Charles Hutson's request for the Clerk's Annual Convention expenses.
• Instructed Stan Murray to verify a $27,000 bill from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Hubble Creek Project.