During a recent government meeting in Osage Beach, Missouri, city officials discussed several key legislative items, including the approval of a design service agreement extension for the 42 High Walk sidewalk project and the ongoing development of a Veterans Memorial.

The meeting commenced with the first reading of Bill 24-58, which authorizes an extension to the design service agreement with engineering services for the sidewalk project. The motion to approve passed unanimously.

Next, the board addressed Bill 24-60, which involves an agreement with Elks Lodge 2517 for maintenance and assistance related to the proposed Veterans Memorial project. City Engineer Andrew Bowman highlighted the importance of this agreement, which outlines the responsibilities of both the city and the Elks Lodge post-construction. However, some board members expressed dissatisfaction with the financial responsibilities placed on the city, questioning the Elks Lodge's contribution to the project. Alderman Recker and Alderman O'Hos team voiced concerns that the city was shouldering too much of the financial burden, especially given the potential profits from the sale of engraved bricks by the Elks Lodge.

Despite these concerns, the first reading of Bill 24-60 passed, with a roll call vote reflecting mixed support among the board members.

The meeting also included the second reading of Bill 24-61, which authorizes a contract with Don Schneider's Excavating Company for the Veterans Memorial project at a cost not to exceed $157,750. This project has faced budgetary challenges, having been previously rejected due to financial constraints. The city received three bids, with Schneider's being the lowest. The board discussed the financial contributions from the Elks Lodge, which include two statues and other items valued at approximately $30,000, but some members remained skeptical about the adequacy of these contributions.

Overall, the discussions highlighted ongoing tensions regarding financial responsibilities for community projects, particularly those involving veteran commemorations, as city officials navigate the complexities of public-private partnerships.