JACKSON CITY COMMENTARY: CITY'S STEADY GROWTH CONTINUES

The mid-year building permit totals are in and they show Jackson is continuing to grow. The residential home starts show 60 new homes at an average cost of $122,000 under construction or completed. This is down slightly from 74 new homes during the same period in 1999. Commercial building permits are up this year. Through June, 10 new commercial buildings are complete or in progress. The same period in 1999 showed only four new commercial building starts. This continued steady growth in building helps ensure a continued strong economy for the Jackson area.

With the continued steady growth of our town we are striving to improve our infrastructure. The water/sewer bond issue passed some time ago is now in full swing. A major improvement is underway at our wastewater plant which will increase its capacity. A major water main improvement is about to begin in the Greensferry Road area. Other bond issue related projects will begin soon and will continue for the next 2-3 years.

Electric upgrades are also being made. A major upgrade in our West Jackson sub-station is underway. This follows the construction last year of a new electric sub-station in East Jackson along Highway 61 by I-55.

We are striving to give the best service possible in the areas of sewer/water and electric. These upgrades will benefit existing areas of town and also allow new areas to be served in an orderly fashion in the future.

The council recently set the 2000 tax levy for Jackson at $1 per $100 valuation. The authorized ceiling set by the the Missouri state auditor was $1.04 per $100. This is the seventh year in succession the council has set the rate below the state suggested ceiling.

The new foot bridge at the corner of Jefferson and Colorado by the primary annex is now open to the public. This bridge over Hubble Creek was funded 80 percent by a state grant and 20 percent by the city. It should serve as a safe crossing for many students and adults for many years to come.

The Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual Agri-Business Tour. This year a group of over 100 toured Anheuser-Busch in St. Louis and then attended the Cards' game that evening. A good mix of folks from all walks of life attended and a good time was had by all.

School is back in session. The band is playing and footballs fill the air. I want to welcome all the new teachers (37) and other school employees at Jackson R-2 and also welcome back all the returning teachers and staff. I also want to welcome back all the students who are the future of this great city. Remember when driving to take extra care now that school is in session. Have a great school year!

The council meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall in Jackson. Your ideas and suggestions on how we can improve Jackson are always welcome.