The Willow Springs Board of Aldermen granted permission for the use of Booster Field during its regular monthly meeting, paving the way for an upcoming community event.
Eleven Point Rural Fire Chief Frank Vanhorn presented the request for an Oct. 10 fire engine rally. The event will kick off with a parade at 9 a.m. and feature activities through 3:30 p.m. Revived by Vanhorn a few years ago, the rally hosts fire trucks and firefighters from across Howell County for friendly competitions between area fire departments and family activities.
Four Willow Springs city employees were recognized during the meeting for milestone years of service: Electric Department Supervisor Nick Tooley, 10 years; Officer Paul McCormick, 15; Bryan D. Hogan, 15; and City Administrator Beverly Hicks, 20 years.
Hicks was also presented with a Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her two decades with the city.
In official business, Hicks introduced proposed changes to the city’s ordinance governing the Public Safety Advisory Committee, noting the group has struggled to reach a quorum for its monthly meetings. Board members agreed to let Hicks draft amended ordinance language to address the attendance and quorum requirements.
The Public Safety Advisory Committee currently consists of Robert Hollis, Kim McCormick, Greg Chaney and Matt Owens, with three vacancies remaining open.
Hicks also led a discussion regarding updated flood insurance rate maps determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. She reminded the board and public that a mandatory 90-day appeal process will begin soon. Written public comments will be collected at city hall and compiled into a formal packet to submit to FEMA.
Hicks noted it may take up to two years before a finalized flood map is presented to the council for formal adoption. However, adopting the updated map will be required for the city to remain eligible for federal and state assistance from FEMA and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) following disaster declarations.
Residents can search FEMA flood maps by address at msc.fema.gov/portal/home or learn more about the mapping process at fema.gov/flood-maps.
Willow Springs City Hall, located at 900 W. Main St., is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. For questions, call 417-469-2107.
