Kennett Board of Public Works authorized to buy 409 E. Second St.; public raises questions about KBPW reappointments

The Kennett City Council on Feb. 17 authorized the Kennett Board of Public Works (KBPW) to purchase 409 E. Second St. — the building described in the minutes as the 'old shakers building' — for $40,000. Council Member Randy Carter moved to authorize the purchase and Council Member Mark Bryant seconded; the motion passed.

KBPW CEO Jamie Chitester told the council the building will be demolished after purchase. The minutes do not record a demolition timeline, proposed future use of the site, or funding source details beyond the stated purchase price.

During public comment, Dr. Chancellor Wayne said he filed a Sunshine Request seeking minutes regarding reappointments of current KBPW members and alleged that three current members were not reappointed in accordance with the KBPW "By Laws;" he asked that an appointment be made for a position he says expired in March 2023. Mayor Jake Crafton responded he had received a document from City Clerk Mandy Lewis showing only one member’s term had expired at this time and noted that board members serve until the Mayor reappoints them. The council took no immediate action on Dr. Wayne’s request during the meeting.

The purchase authorization and the public question about KBPW reappointments were recorded as separate items in the minutes. The council did not include further documentation or decisions on KBPW governance in the meeting record; interested parties should request appointment records and the KBPW bylaws from the City Clerk for verification.