JACKSON CITY COMMENTARY; CITY OF JACKSON AWARD GRANT

The city of Jackson has been awarded a "Branch Out Missouri" tree grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation. This grant program is intended to benefit tree planting projects that have community, educational and nature enhancing value. This tree planting project will take place in the park in Jackson. The plantings will be a part of a future nature related walking trail in Litz Park.

A total of 63 trees will be planted. The tree selection includes redbuds, dogwoods, spruce, birch, sassafras, ash, American beech, hickories, walnuts and several others.

These trees will be planted and maintained by the Jackson Parks Department, Jackson Garden Club and volunteers. In addition to the trees, plans an: underway to place several wild flower gardens and shrubs in the area

Jackson presently has "Tree City USX' status. This "Branch out Missouri" program in Litz Park certainly enhances our "Tree City USA" status and will add to the beauty and increase the daily use of Litz Park

Starting in January I will start serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Cape Area Industrial Recruitment Association. As Jackson's representative on this board I will do everything possible to promote Industrial growth in Jackson and the Cape County area. I look forward to working on this important band and to the challenge of continuing to improve and expand our local industry.

The annual city of Jackson budget process is in full swing. After all factors are considered we will once again pass a balanced budget that keeps the financial integrity of the city in mind.

It is important to move forward with capital improvements and other projects as money allows. It is also important to keep the City firmly in tic black as it presently is to allow for possible emergency expenditures when needed. Rest assured we will move forward with the progress of our city to the full extent our resources allow and at the same time preserve a strong financial position for the future of our City.

The holiday season is upon us. I want to wish each and every citizen of Jackson an the surrounding area a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We have an outstanding community that mirrors its motto: City of Beautiful Homes, Churches, Schools and Parks. It is my pleasure to serve as your mayor. My door is always open.

The council meets every Monday at City Hall at 7:30 p.m. Your comments on how we can improve Jackson are always welcome. Happy holidays to you all!