Two running to be mayor of Altenburg

ALTENBURG, Mo. -- Improvements to city systems, such as changes to the water system, and increasing residential awareness of the decisions of city officials are some of the main concerns of the two candidates contending for mayor of Altenburg in Tuesday's election.

Incumbent Mike Hughey, a 59-year resident of Altenburg, has served as mayor since being appointed by the town board two years ago after Mayor Tom Meyr fell ill and left office early. Hughey has been a member on the town board since 1993.

If elected, Hughey said, he plans to continue to keep things running as smoothly as possible.

"If people think I'm doing a good job, they'll elect me, and if they don't, I don't need to be in there," he said.

One change Hughey said he would like to see in Altenburg is switching from the current gravity-feed water system to a pressurized system, which he said would offer more water pressure for residents.

"I think that would be a great idea," he said. "With the gravity-feed system there's not a lot of water pressure."

Opposing candidate Harold France, a 15-year resident of Altenburg, said the town needs a change in leadership.

"They just need some new ideas and new blood in the offices," he said.

If elected, France said, he would focus on people speeding through town. He said he would also offer more information to residents on the new sewer system, which was completed and became effective three years ago. France said since the installation of the new sewer system, residents' monthly fees have continued to rise each year based on their monthly water consumption with limited explanation as to why.

Hughey said he has heard complaints from residents who are seeing higher bills but added that the city does not control the prices.

"That's all set by expenses -- prices go up every year on sewer," he said. "We're not making any money off it. We're just paying the bills."

If residents are concerned with the amount of their bill, Hughey said, they should check for water leaks.

France said another change he plans to institute if elected is to make sure the public is informed and knows what is passed at every city council meeting through the use of local newspapers.

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Pertinent Address:

Altenburg, MO