Mound City Council approves utilities to 4th Street lots

By Roger Sims, rsims@linncountyjournal.com

MOUND CITY – As nearly as John Bruns can figure, Rick Masters has wanted to build a home on property he owns on the east side of North Fourth Street on the block between Hemlock and Pine streets. That area is across the street east from Woodlawn Cemetery.

The only thing lacking was water and sewer service to the plot, which could support up to three fairly large building lots. According to Bruns, burying the utilities wasn’t a problem. The waste water lines in that area are already deep enough. On the city’s map Cherry Street runs between the lots but is not paved.

Masters, a Fort Scott resident who has ties to Mound City, appeared before the Mound City Council earlier this summer and then again on Aug. 5, asking again if the city would run utilities so he could build a house there. The council did not act on that request the first time he appeared, however, at its Aug. 5 meeting the council approved a $10,000 bid by Page Enterprises of Parker to install utilities to that area contingent on securing easements.

The council also approved a bid of nearly $118,500 from Killough Construction Co. to asphalt streets, predominantly those leading to Jayhawk Elementary School. Bruns said asphalt on those streets was starting to “alligator” badly and becoming rough to drive on.

Bruns said the work could begin as early as the end of August.

The council also learned that Dirt Road Rescue, a Mound City-based organization, would be offering free microchip implants for dogs on Oct. 4 at the Mound City ballfields. Councilwoman Megan Purvis said the organization received a grant through Walmart to pay for the chips. The first 100 dogs that show up will receive the implants.

In other business, the council:

Approved an agreement with Heartland Propane to purchase 2,000 gallons for $1.85 per gallon.

Tabled a decision on a pavilion at the splash park. The council is expected to take the issue up again at its Sept. 2 meeting.

Approved plans for two different water customers that will help them pay off water bills.