VIENNA — Vienna Board of Aldermen met Jan. 5, to revise residential structure ordinance.

Aldermen agreed to clarify the language in an ordinance that pertained to the minimum size of resiential structures, changing it from “constructed” to “constructed or placed.” The ordinance ensures that prebuilt or mobile structures meet the new requirements.

Discussion also turned to zoning, as officials noted that past attempts rules were complicated by commercial properties and the challenges of regulating Highway 63, but future procedures are being explored. No action was taken, but another discussion will take place at a later date.

Parking ordinances and nuisance vehicle rules were also discussed. Aldermen focused on vehicles left in place for more than 72 hours. Police Chief Shannon Thompson said he will review existing ordinances and provide more information at a later date.

New business included updates to the personnel handbook. Aldermen agreed to add a no-smoking policy, which include: no smoking in city vehicles and designated smoking areas will the City Hall parking lot and the Public Works parking lot.

Mayor Tim Schell said safety is a top priority for the workplace.

“I think it’s something we need to have in our handbook,” Schell said. “We have to.”

The updates aim to ensure consistency for all city employees and provide a safe environment on the job.

The discussion then shifted to limiting the number of liquor licenses in Vienna, which currently has six in a town of about 600-700 residents. Alderman Ken Dixon, a firefighter of 19 years and a local resident for 33 was not in favor of limiting licenses.

“Vienna is a travel town and we have to consider outside traffic on the way to the Lake (of the Ozarks) or other various places,” Dixon said. “I hate to limit future growth.”

No action was taken.

One piece of positive news for residents is the opening of a new daycare. It was hinted that a private resident in Vienna is preparing to open a daycare facility in the former TCS building, where Harry’s Jewelry used to operate.

Other updates included rolling over an upcoming CD to maintain interest, and awarding a bid for asbestos inspection and demolition on several city-owned properties. City Clerk Tracy Shiver said the asbestos inspector would confirm availability before beginning work.

Earlier in the meeting, Schell opened conversations on a light note, saying his resolution for the year is simply to “be nicer.”

The meeting concluded with procedural items, including accepting the updated smoking policy in the personnel handbook and voting to go into closed session.