VIENNA — The Vienna Board of Aldermen is considering how to repair damage caused by water runoff at locations near the Old Jail Museum Complex following a request from the Lisa Jones, Historical Society president.

Jones explained at the Oct. 5 board meeting that after work from the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) on Highway 42, the culvert was rerouted. Instead of rainwater draining into a ditch along the highway, the water has run along the Historical Society’s property. This has created ditches parallel to Olive Street, making the ground uneven.

Jones said that after contacting MoDOT, they planted seeds, which only diverted the path of the stream.

“So now we’ve got all these multiple ditches going every which way, and it’s a mess,” she said.

Jones said that the Historical Society wants the water issue to be resolved, the ground to be level to avoid liabilities in case of injury, and an opening to access the garage of the building extension and provide parking.

The aldermen are planning to consider bids to build 300 feet of culvert and sidewalk to the end of Olive Street.

“It’s a historical society. So I don’t see why the city couldn’t help with that,” said Mayor Tim Schell.

Jones also said that before the ground was damaged, older visitors would park their cars in that section of the property, making the site easier to access.

The aldermen plan to consider the project and review it again Nov. 23, during the next meeting.

Park grant resolution

In other business, the aldermen approved a 4-0 Resolution No. 26-03, which allows Schell to sign an application for a grant to renovate the park. The city is applying for federal money from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and will match 50 percent of the project (dollar for dollar).

Conflict of interest policy

The aldermen also approved 4-0 a conflict-of-interest policy for grant funds for Vienna Main Street regarding the former Crimson General Store across from the Maries County Courthouse. Vienna Main Street plans to turn the building into a community center.

Public works

Shon Westart, public works superintendent, also updated the board about projects around the city. He said that the city lagoons are almost complete, and the project should be finalized with the Federal Emergency Management Agency within a couple months.

Westart and Clerk Tracy Shiver also said that there will be a monthly meeting with the Environmental Protection Agency about per-and polyfluoroalkyl (SIC) substances (PFAS). He also suggested turning the old hat factory site into a park so that there is one on each side of Highway 63.

Vienna Senior Center electric upgrades

Lloyd Honse discussed with Westart about upgrading the electric system at the Vienna Senior Center. The center plans to install a walk-in freezer and cooler.

Honse said that food had spoiled after a breaker tripped.

Closed Session

The aldermen ended the meeting in closed session for Revised State Statute 610.021(13), relating to personnel records and performance ratings and records of employees and applicants. No votes or motions were made.