Members of the Perryville Board of Aldermen took steps toward adopting a new city zoning map and discussed several proactive ordinances during its Tuesday, Jan. 6, meeting, while also approving a series of resolutions and receiving department reports.
Following a public hearing in which no residents spoke, the board closed discussion on the proposed zoning map. City Administrator Brent Buerck said property-owner concerns had already been addressed and noted the updated map replaces descriptions that had remained in place for more than 55 years. The modernized zoning code is expected to be formally adopted later this month.
The board unanimously approved the consent agenda covering items five through 24, with no questions raised.
PROACTIVE ORDINANCES DISCUSSED
A significant portion of the meeting focused on planning for potential issues before they arise. Buerck asked for direction in drafting an ordinance addressing “cross-border drop-offs,” citing problems in Joplin where transient individuals were reportedly dropped off from neighboring states. While the issue is not currently affecting Perryville, officials said the city’s proximity to the Illinois border makes advance planning prudent.
A similar discussion centered on possible regulations for future data centers. Officials said other communities have struggled after attempting to write ordinances while simultaneously negotiating with developers. Drafting rules in advance would allow the city to establish expectations regarding location, transparency, and infrastructure impacts. Potential sites could include the industrial park.
The board also discussed regulating the sale of kratom, a psychotropic substance currently sold at some convenience stores. State law remains unclear, but city leaders said proposed regulations could include age restrictions — likely limiting sales to those 21 and older — and possibly a special licensing requirement.
Another topic was preparation for the eventual discontinuation of the penny. Buerck said the staff plans to draft a policy addressing rounding for cash payments, such as utility bills, likely excluding taxes. The policy would be implemented once pennies are no longer available.
RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
Among actions taken, the board approved:
• Resolution 2026-01, amending an agreement with the Perry Development Corporation and the Industrial Development Authority
• Resolution 2026-03, adopting the Perry County Emergency Operations Plan
• Resolution 2026-04, approving an agreement with Integrity Counseling LLC to provide critical incident stress management services for city employees
• Resolution 2026-05, approving a lease agreement with Titan Aviation for refueling equipment
Action on Resolution 2026- 02, a volunteer background check policy for organizations using city facilities, was tabled for revisions. The policy would require groups working with children to certify that volunteers are not registered sex offenders.
The board also passed second readings of ordinances amending reserved parking regulations and accepting an easement deed related to the estate of Patricia A. Paulus. First readings were held on additional easement ordinances and changes related to off-road vehicle use.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
During reports, Public Works Director Jeff Layton reminded residents not to flush wipes after generator floats became clogged, causing operational issues.
Economic Development Director Crystal Jones provided updates to the board, including that the former Steve Wynn Moreau Cooperage property — approximately 15 acres with a 40,000-square-foot building — is now on the market, a rare offering for the area. The Perry County Child Care Team is also preparing an application for the Child Care Works program, and a countywide business survey will remain open another week after achieving a 16 percent response rate.
City Administrator Buerck’s report included updates on repairs to the lightning-damaged Automated Weather Observing System, ongoing assessment of storm-related park and building damage, and discussion of field-lighting replacement options. Officials also approved a 25 percent rental discount at the Performing Arts Center for partner schools.
City Engineer Tim Baer updated and noted progress on the city’s trail and sidewalk projects, including Edgemont Trail and Price Road connections, with construction expected to begin this spring. ADA-compliant handrails have been installed on the pedestrian bridge.
Capt. Ryan Worthington with the Perryville Police Department thanked the board for approving the agreement with Integrity Counseling, citing its importance for officer well-being.
The meeting concluded with plans to draft and return proposed ordinances related to cross-border drop-offs, data centers, kratom sales, and cash-payment rounding, as well as revisions to the volunteer background check policy.
