Staff Reports
Another new building is going up in downtown Jefferson after Council approved a building permit for Joe and Carmen McDonnell. The three story townhouse will be built next to their property on Vale Street.
McDonnell said the building will not be any taller than the Jefferson Hotel, located across the street and will look similar to the building next door he also owns. The first floor of the building is designed to be a garage, the second floor a living room and kitchen, and the third floor will hold two bedrooms.
According to the permit, the building will be 13 feet wide, and have 1,352 square feet of living space. It is projected to be completed in April 2023.
Alderman Richard Turner moved to approve the permit, as long as it complies with International Building Code.
Tommy Engle requested council look into drainage issues in the alleyway behind Kennedy Manor. Engle said he had worked to improve the drainage and that there was a drainage ditch across the alleyway which carried water to Vale Street. However, construction at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church had filled in the ditch and was causing water to flood his property and cottage.
Alderman Robin Moore said she texted the builder during the meeting and he indicated an underground drainage would be installed from the alleyway to Vale.
Mayor Rob Baker made two proclamations at the start of the meeting. One declared next week Red Ribbon Week for drug awareness.
St. Paul United Methodist Church now has a day dedicated to it in Jefferson as Baker made his second proclamation. The church will be celebrating their 155th anniversary at 3 p.m. October 30. October 30 will be celebrated as St. Paul’s Methodist Church Day.
Chaplain Ernest Young gave an update to Council on the COVID-19 vaccination programs which have been ongoing at St. Paul’s over the last year. He said they had hosted four clinics and had more in the works. He also said there would be a COVID-19 Awareness event starting at 3 p.m. November 3 at the Church. Flu, COVID-19 vaccines and boosters will also be available.
In other business, Council approved:
- • hiring of Adam Fischer and Vincent Tucker in the Public Works Department at a starting rate of $12 per hour;
- • replacing five lights on the Train Trestle bridge which were not functioning properly at a cost of $2,050;
- • the Annual Christmas Parade to be held on November 26;
- • renewal of an Amusement Ride Permit for Sacred Spur Carriage company;
- • addition of insurance for the JPD Golf Cart and the lights on the Trestle bridge.