Proposed Broiler Farm Draws Goodman's Attention

Roger Renner's effort to build eight chicken houses, consisting of approximately 400,000 broilers, north of the Goodman city limits drew the attention of the Goodman City Council on Tuesday.

The council discussed the strain this operation would put on the Goodman area, with the most significant being water contamination and water pressure.

In addition, there are concerns about the odor, which would affect Goodman residents, and damage to streets and roads because of heavier use.

Attorney Jordan Paul forwarded a letter to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources regarding the neighbor notice requirement comment period for Renner's chicken operation. Paul noted that Renner's notice does not comply with the law.

Paul said that Renner must issue a notice that complies with state regulations, and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources must hold a second 30-day comment period. Paul noted that relevant statutes and regulations regarding buffer distance requirements, setbacks, and other things are not being complied with.

Paul said residents of the area noted that the area floods regularly and the proposed chicken facility is uphill/upstream from homes, many of which rely on springs or wells as their source of water and many of the roads routinely wash out; therefore, it is unlikely that the chicken facility will comply with the discharge, water quality and other requirements necessary.

The council is looking into this issue and will discuss it further at the next council meeting.

David Brodie, city supervisor, provided the council with bids regarding repairing the roof on the treatment plant: Cruz Construction of Neosho for $19,262 and L&M Construction of Neosho for $18,525. The council approved the lowest bid.

Bud Terrell addressed the council regarding his doublewide mobile home on East Garner, which was installed crooked. The council had asked Terrell to correct this problem and clean up the area around the home.

Terrell said he obtained quotes regarding straightening the trailer and expressed ideas he has and additions he can make to make it look better. Terrell also said he will clean up the area. The council agreed that Terrell's ideas might work and will discuss the issue at a future council meeting.

The council approved the comprehensive plan for the city contract between Goodman and the Harry S. Truman Coordinating Council in the amount of $3,500.

Mayor Greg Richmond completed the first and second readings of an ordinance adopting and enacting a new code of ordinances. The council approved.

The council approved averaging the water bill of Goodman resident Fred Brunsletter to the amount of $46.40. The bill has been paid.

Paula Brodie, city clerk, addressed the council asking if she should compile information regarding the transportation tax. Brodie said many cities in McDonald County have this tax. Mayor Richmond agreed that this information will be helpful.

Paula Brodie noted information regarding sales tax on motor vehicles and boats to the council.

Brodie also noted to the council that the Rural Development Annual Report has been submitted.

Police officer John Wynn addressed the council requesting a contract for continuing education. A contract is required of police officers at Missouri Southern State University. The council approved the contract.

Wynn introduced Jeremy Walker, a new reserve officer who was present at the council meeting.

David Brodie requested approval from the council to attend a technical conference in March. The council approved.

Bills from Jan. 19, in the amount of $36,815.75 and from Feb. 2, in the amount of $12,572.50, were approved.

Community on 02/04/2016