Ash Grove gets new Public Works director, again

City in need of major repairs, updates to sewer system
For the second time in three months, the city of Ash Grove has a new Public Works Director. Current city employee Chris Boyd will take over the role following the departure of Kolton Jett, who quit May 5, after less than a few months in the position. Boyd's hiring was approved unanimously by the Board of Aldermen at the body's May 16 meeting. His starting pay is set at $22 per hour. Boyd is no stranger to the machinations of the city as he was code enforcement officer and building inspector prior to his new role.
Bad news from Allgeier Martin and Associates
A representative from Allgeier Martin and Associates, a consulting engineering firm, announced during his presentation that the city is in dire need of upgrades to the city's wastewater and sewer system.
"At your treatment plant, there's a great number of needs," XXX said. "… They should've been done a long time ago."  
XXX recommended a three phase approach to tackle the many issues facing the city at the facility. He also warned that a failure in the current operation could lead to major problems. As the city will be receiving some $290,000 in American Rescue Plan Act money, which includes an approximate match from the city of $72,000, the board voted to begin the process, however, the eventual bill for all three phases will be in the millions of dollars and will likely require a bond issue to cover the tab in the near future.   
In other business
Ash Grove's Chief of Police John Davis welcomed new officer Howard Johnson to the force during the meeting. Johnson was sworn in by City Clerk Melissa Mau and was the recipient of the ceremonial pinning thereafter.
Davis also recognized and officially commended two current officers for their actions while on the job. Officer Matthew Adkins was presented the honor for his efforts in saving the life of an individual who had overdoes on drugs, while Domanick Widebrook was celebrated for his part in an extensive drug bust. Unfortunately, Davis also announced Widebrook's impending departure from the Ash Grove squad as he has taken a similar job elsewhere.
Also discussed
- Local business owner Stuart Coutchie was present for a discussion with the board regarding a months-long dispute about his commercial dumpster in the city's right-of-way. Although no solution was reached, possibilities were floated, including selling or leasing the property to Coutchie, of which Coutchie spoke in favor. The board decided to take the matter behind closed doors and the issue remained unsettled.
-The board also decided how to spend $14,000 they'll be receiving as part of the Greene County Municipal Funding Project. The funds will be used to repave some of the problem areas of the Ash Grove City Park walkway and the remainder will be used to improve the conditions in the girls' restrooms at the city pool.