A project which seems to have questionable merit was discussed during the regular session of the Moberly City council Tuesday night.

A simple ordinance went before the council which would allow the city to enter into an agreement with the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission for a grant which would fund a sidewalk project leading to a pedestrian bridge over Rollins to the site of the former depot.

It was the project that was in question, not the acceptance of the grant, which was ultimately approved. The project would extend athe sidewalk from Williams to Wightman to Sturgeon. Tom Sanders, director of community development, explained the city might be able to save money by obtaining a bridge that is scheduled to be replaced elsewhere in the state. When asked for an estimated cost of a new bridge, one that could perhaps be built locally, Sanders said they have been purchased in other parts of the state for about $160,000 installed.

Mayor Pro Tem Don Burton called into question the need for such a project saying a pedestrian could reach the area now by continuing down Williams and going across on Reed. He noted there are no figures for such a project and that while 79 % would be paid through the grant monies, the city would have to pay anything over the $239,600 grant.

“Are we voting on the project or are we just tying up state money?” asked Councilman Herb Lawrence.

In the end the council decided to “tie up” the state money so it would be available but with the undestanding the project would not necessarily have to come to fruition.

“You wouldn’t have to do the project,” said Sanders. “It would just be money lost.”

In another odd railroad-related ordinance, it has become apparent that the city had a lease agreement with Wabash Railroad dating from November 3, 1954. The city was contacted by Norfolk Southern Railway regarding a raise in the lease amount.

A legal description of the property is given but since the original agreement was made in 1954, no one on the council nor the city counselor can say exactly where the land lies. Public Utilities Director Keith Phipps noted since it is the address where the water tower stands, there is a possibility the city is on a portion of the railroad right-of-way. He said the city pays the railroad fees for crossing right-of-way with sewer and water lines.

The council voted to cancel the old agreement and approved a new lease agreement with Norfolk Southern Railway releasing the land at 303 E. Rollins. However, since no time period is mentioned in the agreement, Phipps was instructed to look into the matter more deeply in case the issue comes up again.

In other action, the council accepted the bid of OES of Chesterfield, Missouri in the amount of $57,273.43 for the replacement of all the scoreboards at the Howard Hils Athletic Complex.

The Parks Department is seeking comments and suggestions on how the Moberly park system can be enhanced. If you would like to give your input call 263-8705 ext 2012.