JACKSON CITY COMMENTARY; DNR SAYS JACKSON WATER QUALITY, SYSTEM IN GOOD SHAPE

Recently a representative from the Department of Natural Resources conducted a sanitary survey on the city's water supply. The purpose of the survey was to evaluate the adequacy, reliability and safety of Jackson's overall water system. The survey included thorough inspections of wells, the treatment plants, and the water storage tanks.

It was noted during the survey that the city is in the middle of major state revolving fund water projects that will upgrade the water distribution system and the overall infrastructure of the city. It was also noted that the city is undertaking another budgeted project to replace the roof of the large reservoir at the water plant facility.

The DNR has encouraged the city to keep its pro-active attitude toward the maintenance and operation of our water system. Rest assured this will remain a high priority in the future.

DNR has given the city high marks in its final report and said the city's water supply was well operated and maintained.

The agency also commended the city's personnel for their outstanding efforts in providing citizens with a safe water supply.

Building permits

Final building permit reports for 2000 are complete, with 88 new single-family homes being built last year. This compares to 112 in 1999. Nine new multi-family units were built in 2000. Fourteen were built in 1999. Sixteen new commercial structures went up in 2000; there were seven in 1999. Several hundred building permits for many other purposes were also issued last year.

While these figures vary from year to year, the overall building picture is steady and strong for a city of Jackson's size. Total declared construction costs for 2000 was slightly more than $22 million. Since 1994, Jackson has averaged nearly $21 million in yearly construction. This continued strong construction climate in Jackson helps keep our overall economy strong.

Later this month several other city officials and I will travel to Jefferson City to participate in the semiannual Missouri Municipal League Conference. This meeting will key on legislative priorities that affect cities like Jackson. Our active participation in the N241, and attending these meetings insures that we are up-to-date and well informed on state legislative issues.

The Jackson City Council meets at 7:30 p.m. Mondays at City Hall in Jackson. Your ideas and suggestions on how we can improve our city are always welcome.

Paul W. Sander

Mayor of Jackson