JACKSON CITY COMMENTARY: NEW WASTEWATER SYSTEM WILL SAVE CITY $3.1 MILLION

A public hearing was recently held concerning proposed improvements to our wastewater system. These projects are proposed under our passed sewer and water bond issue. The hearing was one of the requirements which is mandated as a result of our participation in the state of Missouri revolving Fund. By participating in this program the city of Jackson will save over $3.1 million over the life of the water and sewer bonds. The city of Jackson is ranked first in the state for funding of these needed sewer and water projects and we should be able to begin the improvements this fall. A total of $10.5 million will be spent on these needed infrastructure improvements in our City the next three to four years.

Copies of the recently passed city of Jackson comprehensive plan are now Available at the Public Works Office in City Hall. Citizens may review the plan at City Hall or purchase a copy for your own use.

Information concerning the rules and regulations of the city swimming pool For 1999 are now available at City Hall. The cost for season tickets, swimming lessons, dates and hours of operation, etc. are available upon Request.

Over $11,000 is being spent on upgrading our playground equipment in the Main City Park this year. The new equipment should be in place this summer Also, new state of the art lighting will be installed at the Armory Baseball Field. This new lighting is being made possible by the Boys League, the city Of Jackson and from donations made to the park fund in honor of my father, Leonard F. Sander, who passed away last summer. Dad would be proud to Have this new lighting installed on a field his grandson Spencer and many other young baseball stars are playing on this season.

Phase one of the East Main Street extension (from Shawnee to Oak Hill Rd.) Is underway. Weather permitting phase one of this important improvement To our road system will be completed by mid-summer. We will continue to Work with MoDOT toward gaining funding and approval of the needed I-55 Interchange at E. Main and Coker Rd. Phase two of the road project will begin when the needed funding and scheduling are obtained for the interchange.

I recently started a new two-year term as your mayor of Jackson. It is my pleasure to serve the citizens in a progressive, proactive fashion. Our city Is "on the move" and our financial status is the best in our history. While We can't make everyone happy with every decision that is made, I assure You every decision is made with the best interest of the entire community In mind. A common goal we all share is for Jackson to continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family.

The Council meets every Monday night at 7:30 p.m., at City Hall. Your Suggestions and ideas are always welcome.