Sullivan Mayor J.T. Hardy, left, presented former Mayor James K. Schatz, right, with a proclamation and plaque honoring his years of service to the City of Sullivan.

By James B. Bartle
While the meeting was brief on Tuesday night, Apr. 21, the Sullivan City Council saw several changes take place both in the aldermanic seats and in the mayoral office.
The meeting began with the former council holding a brief wrap-up of old business, which included the approval of $2,048,671.49 in city bills: $545,860.95 to Sho-Me Power; $46,398.48 to UM Bank for payment 13 on the wastewater treatment plant; and $1,831.70 to Missouri Natural Gas.
City clerk Jan Koch then presented the election results from Crawford and Franklin County, which were certified and presented to the council for acceptance and were approved.
Alderman Rich Abel expressed his appreciation to the residents of Sullivan for allowing him to serve as Alderman and appreciated their input and support.
Alderman Danny Banning stated, “It’s been a privilege to serve on the council and a very interesting experience.”
He also expressed his appreciation to the voters.
Mayor James Schatz stated that he had really enjoyed the past three terms as Mayor and felt that the city had moved forward during his term.
He expressed his appreciation to the residents for their support during his term adding, “It has been a pleasure to serve the city.”
Following these comments, the council concluded their meeting. Alderman Mike Ryan, Alderman Dennis Watz, Alderman Michael Lohden, Mayor J.T. Hardy and City Collector Judy McPherson were sworn into office.
As his first act as Mayor, Hardy presented former Mayor James Schatz with a proclamation recognizing Schatz for his years of service and dedication to the city, not only for his terms as Mayor but also his terms as Alderman. Schatz was also presented with a plaque that included his Mayoral gavel.
Mayor Hardy then called the council to order and asked if there were any requests or petitions.
Peter Patel, Econo Lodge, was scheduled to address the council but was not in attendance.
Mayor Hardy commented that Patel is concerned about the former Ramada Inn. He stated that the property owner has obtained three bids for the razing of this building and steps are being taken on this issue.
City administrator Mark Falloon reported that bids have been received for items needed for the East Euclid Sewer Project. The low bid was received from Harry Cooper, Inc. in the amount of $10,704.66. The bid was approved unanimously by the council.
City attorney Matt Schroeder informed the council that he had several items of litigation for closed session.
The council approved Ordinance 3338, sponsored by alderman Dennis Watz, which approved the consolidation of four lots into one lot for a multi-family dwelling located on Heritage Drive. The property is owned by Tim Reinhold.
Mayor J.T. Hardy asked the board for a recommendation or motion to elect a new president of the Board of Aldermen. The president will serve as Mayor should the Mayor not be able to attend city business.
Alderman Jarrett Dace presented a motion to elect Tom Leasor as Board President. This was seconded by alderman Mike Ryan and approved unanimously.
The council also approved the appointments of Jan Koch as city clerk, Matt Schroeder as city attorney, and Flo Juergens as city treasurer.
Alderman Dace again highlighted the fact that residents along Watson Rd., some 18, have yet to pay for their sewer connection fee of $3,750. Dace questioned whether these residents have been given written notice.
Administrator Falloon reported that they have in the past, but not a new reminder to pay the bill which totals some $80,000.
Dace had expressed that several residents that have paid are wanting to see those that haven’t have their names published in the newspaper, as it is public knowledge.
There was some lengthy discussion on this issue; however, city attorney Matt Schroeder commented that there were some items related to this matter to be discussed in closed session.
Mayor Hardy challenged residents to help clean up the city and to speak highly of the city.
“To attract jobs, attract industry, we need to sell ourselves to others,” said Hardy. “We have the opportunity to lay out the future of our community. It’s easier to tear something down than to build it up.”
Hardy also announced that he would hold a special meeting on May 5 at 6:45 p.m., prior to the regular meeting, to appoint a successor to his Ward 2 vacancy. The special meeting is required by city code.
The council then went into closed session, with no information to report at this time.