Cape Girardeau council approves first reading to sell South Sprigg training site to school district for joint fire program

The Cape Girardeau City Council on July 7 approved on first reading an ordinance authorizing sale of city-owned property along South Sprigg Street to Cape Girardeau Public School District No. 63 and authorized the mayor to execute a special warranty deed.

The sale accompanies a memorandum of understanding between the city and the school district to formalize a shared training site at the former Smelterville area, used by the fire department as a training facility. The agreement is intended to allow enhancements to the site and to host the school district’s fire science program for junior and senior high students alongside city fire personnel.

Chief Morris presented the ordinance as a joint endeavor between the fire department and the Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center. Superintendent Jason Benyon and a district program director, identified in the meeting as Director Crowley, attended to answer questions. Council members offered unanimous support during a brief discussion, and the motion to approve the first reading carried.

The council did not specify sale price, timeline for closing, or detailed capital improvements in the meeting materials presented at first reading. The ordinance advances the process by approving the first reading and authorizing execution of the special warranty deed; further council action may be required for final passage and implementation.

The council noted the partnership as an opportunity to expand training and career pathways in fire science, emergency medical services and related lifesaving fields for local students.