Jackson to vote on requiring prescriptions for pseudoephedrine

The Jackson Board of Aldermen will vote today whether to require a prescription for the purchase of pseudoephedrine in the city. Many popular over-the-counter cold medications contain the drug that is also used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

Jackson police chief James M. Humphreys said as a law enforcement officer he supports the passing of this ordinance. He said the police department has seen an influx of meth cases since other cities throughout the region have started requiring prescriptions for the medication.

"They are coming here to purchase it," he said. "We've seen quite a bit of it. A lot of people in the labs, a lot of the arrests made have been of people from out of the area but bought it here."

Both Humphreys and Mayor Barbara Lohr said they understand the concern from law-abiding people who use the drug responsibly, but they said doctors aware of Jackson's requirement will work with patients and not require them to come in every time they need cold medication.

The aldermen and city officials heard a presentation at the Oct. 4 study session from the SEMO Drug Task Force on the sale of pseudoephedrine and the effectiveness of requiring a prescription, instead of only tracking its purchase and purchasers.

There will also be a public hearing about the results of an electric rate cost of study. Lohr said once the city implements the recommendations, all residents will begin seeing a reduction in their electric rates.

cbartholomew@semissourian.com

243-8600

Pertinent Address:

101 Court St., Jackson, MO

Jackson Board of Aldermen agenda

7:30 Monday

City hall

Hearings

* Hearing to consider the electric cost-of-service study, as prepared by Burns & McDonnell.

Action items

* Consider a bill proposing an ordinance on the protest of any tax, fee or other payment to the city.

* Consider a motion authorizing the closure of Stotler Way between North Lacey Street and Braun Drive from 6:30 to 10 p.m., Oct. 22 for a neighborhood block party, as requested by Tom and Clara Traxler.

* Consider a resolution in support of an application for the rehabilitation of Jackson Villa and Jackson Senior Estates, by RCH Development Inc.

* Consider a bill proposing an ordinance authorizing a contractual agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, on installation of "Noise Ordinance Enforced" signs.

* Consider a bill proposing an ordinance amending Chapter 45 of the Code of Ordinances, on the regulation of methamphetamine precursor drugs

* Consider a bill proposing an ordinance amending the "Crosswalks Designated Schedule -- Schedule XVI" by adding a designation on Parkview Street.