Development News for Neosho, Missouri

Neosho Police Department Honors Retiring Officers, Promotes New Leadership

The council approved proclamations honoring two retiring members of the Neosho Police Department, Lieutenant Robert Mike Sharp and Detective Brandon Mashears, for their 21 years of dedicated service. Both officers received numerous commendations and awards throughout their careers. Lieutenant Ethan Crow was promoted to Lieutenant and sworn in as Patrol Lieutenant. Patrolman 3 Seth Hembre was also sworn in. These actions recognize the service of outgoing officers and welcome new leadership and personnel to the police department.

City Approves Asphalt Milling and Microsurfacing Projects Valued at Over $445,000

The council approved an agreement with Blevins Asphalt Construction Company, Inc. for asphalt milling and overlay services on specified city streets for a not-to-exceed price of $204,241.10. This project involves resurfacing approximately 1.1 miles of asphalt on city streets. Additionally, an agreement with Vance Brothers LLC was approved for microsurfacing approximately 3.2 miles of city streets, including areas around the square and Industrial Drive, for a not-to-exceed price of $241,518.88. Both motions passed unanimously.

Neosho Fire Department Seeks Grant for New Fire Engine Replacement

The Neosho Fire Department is seeking approval to apply for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from FEMA to replace an aging fire engine. The grant could cover up to $1 million of the cost, with the city responsible for a 5% match if awarded. The estimated cost for a new engine ranges from $1 million to $1.4 million. Delivery is estimated at 12-14 months for a standard model and up to two years for a custom-spec'd model. The current engine is a 2000 model and is becoming costly to maintain.

City Considers Industrial Development Bonds for LZB Manufacturing Project

The council discussed an ordinance approving a plan for an industrial development project for LZB Manufacturing Inc. This involves authorizing the city to issue taxable industrial development revenue bonds, not to exceed $18,500,000, to finance the project. The bonds are structured as a mechanism for real and personal property tax abatement for economic development. The ordinance includes a Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT) structure, where LZB Manufacturing will pay a percentage of otherwise owed property taxes over 20 years, starting with no payments for the first five years, then stepping up to 25%, 50%, and 75% over subsequent five-year periods. The EMS ambulance district is exempt from this abatement and will receive 100% of property taxes.