JACKSON ADMINISTRATOR SAYS CITY MUST EXAMINE POWER PLANT NEEDS

JACKSON -- An engine at Jackson's power plant went out over the weekend after the city broke its own power usage record.

City Administrator Steve Wilson labeled the breakdown another symptom of "a little town growing into a big town."

The breakdown resulted in only minor inconveniences and the engine is running again. It should be fine after a few repairs, but Jackson officials will be looking at more permanent solutions.

"In such severe weather conditions, it stands to reason we are going to need more electricity," Wilson said of the heat. "One of our priorities now is to look at power from the long-term standpoint."

He discussed the problem Monday at the Jackson Board of Aldermen's regular meeting.

The city buys most of its power from other sources -- including Union Electric and the Sikeston power plant -- but produces its own when rates are highest. It is a system that saves the consumer money, Wilson said.

Now Jackson will buy more power elsewhere, but increasing its own plant's output will be part of a plan to improve the growing city's overall infrastructure.

There will be other far-reaching changes in Jackson's future. Some were discussed Monday.

The Board of Aldermen wants to make City Collector Beverly Nelson a city employee instead of an elected official. Wilson said the switch would allow Nelson and her part-time assistant to serve all residents' needs instead of working solely in collections.

Nelson was first elected to her position in 1991 after serving 20 years as a secretary for the prior city collector.

To make her a city employee, the question must go to a vote of the people. The board wants to put the issue on the April ballot.

Other personnel changes will be coming sooner. Jackson just hired one new police officer to replace Keith Carr and wants to hire another before the end of the year. The city also needs a new building inspector.

Power plant supervisor Larry Humes left his job and recently was replaced by assistant supervisor John King.

JACKSON BOARD OF ALDERMEN

Monday, Aug. 21

7:30 p.m.

Power and Light Committee

Set special election for city of Jackson on Nov. 7 for library merger and levy issue.

Accepted low bid of $39,984 from Landgraf Construction Co. for the Brookside Park restroom facility.

Authorized request for bids for new data-processing equipment.

Accepted recommendation and timetable of city collector regarding the revamping of her office.

Street Committee

Established and approveed the 1995 tax rate at $1.05, the same as last year.