5 years, 6 months ago Construction could begin this fall
Hannibal's riverfront project got its funding Tuesday night as city council members gave first reading to an ordinance authorizing the issuance of Leasehold Revenue Bonds for that project and the construction of a new Visitor's Center.
The ordinance limits the issue to no more that 7 point 2 million dollars and 23 years,but city manager Jeffery LaGarce says in reality the amount will be closer to 6 point 7 million. Construction on the riverfront could begin as soon as this fall. The city is still waiting on permits from the Army Corps of Engineers.
Ground breaking for the visitor's center will be held next spring.
There was also some discussion during Tuesday's meeting about a campaign yard sign. City code limits to the size of yard signs that can be placed on residential property in Hannibal to a total of 16 square feet or 4 feet by 4 feet.
But - a yard sign promoting the Republican Candidate for Marion County Prosecuting Attorney - Luke Bryant - more than doubles that square footage. Hannibal Building Inspector Joey Burnham has asked the resident at 3109 St. Mary's Avenue, Sarah E. Dudley to remove the sign - but as of 7 o'clock Tuesday evening it was still standing.
While addressing the issue before council - former Mayor John Lyng cited the difficulty in enforcing the ordinance in this instance saying it will not even reach the municipal court before the November 6th election, at which time the sign will no longer be an issue.
Lyng suggested making a violation of the ordinance a court priority so if a violator is cited - the issue can be addressed as early as the next session of the Municipal court. He also suggested including fines and allowing the city to take down offending signs if property owners fail to comply.
In other action - council set April 2nd 2019 for the next municipal election. The Mayor - second ward and fourth ward council seats will be on the ballot.
