Former Cape Girardeau mayor named to transportation panel

Former Cape Girardeau Mayor Jay B. Knudtson was named by Cape Girardeau county commissioners Monday, June 5, to the technical planning committee of Southeast Missouri Planning Organization.

"During my eight years as mayor, I learned quickly how important transportation and road planning is," said Knudtson, who served as mayor from 2002 to 2010 and is First Missouri State Bank executive vice president. "We live in the greatest region in the country. Transportation planning and strategy are paramount to continued success."

Other action

• Submitted monthly bills from Jackson's Penzel Construction for $203,396.90 and $252,416.62 were approved for continued renovation of the old Cape Girardeau County Courthouse and expansion of the county jail, respectively. Penzel is general contractor for both projects, estimated for completion in 2024.
• $26,871.42 was approved for a retaining wall at the rear of a new county parking lot in the 200 block of Cherry Street in Jackson, across from the county jail at 216 N. Missouri St. Three residences were razed to make way for the lot.
• Commissioners renewed for one year a contract with Springfield, Missouri-based E.J. Rice Co. for an ongoing voter rolls project, as required by statute.