KAHOKA, Mo. — The Kahoka Board of Aldermen approved several measures during its regular meeting Feb. 17, including a 16% electric rate increase, a pay raise for firefighters, and the search for demolition bids for the city’s street shed.
Mayor Anthony Anderson called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. at City Hall, with Aldermen Larry Young, Carl Hayden, and Jerry Malone present. Alderman Les Billings arrived at 6:50 p.m.
The board unanimously approved raising the city’s electric rate from 11.2 cents to 13 cents per kilowatt hour. City Attorney Brett Bozarth will draft an ordinance for formal approval at the March meeting. (Editor’s note: discussion of the rate increase was not included in agenda posted Friday afternoon, February 14)
In a move to support local emergency responders, the board voted to increase the hourly wage for city firefighters from $12 to $15.
The board also reviewed bids for a new street shed but took no action, opting instead to seek bids for demolishing the current structure. Officials hope to preserve the existing concrete foundation for future use.
In other business, the board selected ACI as the city’s new credit card processor, citing lower ACH fees and competitive rates. Aldermen also accepted a $2,250 bid from Pittsburg Tank and Tower Group to inspect the city’s water tank.
Alderman Young delivered a tribute to the Gutting family, honoring their three generations of service through Kahoka Motors. He praised their long-standing commitment to the community, noting the city has often relied on their dealership and repair services.
During a closed session, aldermen discussed personnel and legal matters. Following the session, the board approved $1 hourly raises for city employees Jennifer Gates and Ray Tate.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for March, where the formal electric rate ordinance will be considered.
