Court clears city to enter Deering property for cleanup; council discusses demolition, bridge naming and meeting recordings

Boyle Circuit Court has authorized the City of Perryville to enter the Deering property to remove debris, trash and any remaining structures, Counselor Jordan Shewmaker told the council on April 2.

Councilperson Steve Bailey asked whether cleanup plans are progressing and whether violation notices have been issued on the Anderson Street property. Shewmaker said burning structures would require extensive permissions and regulations; Mayor Rob Kernodle offered to obtain bids on demolition.

Shewmaker also reminded the council that the state legislature is the only entity that can officially name highway bridges. She noted the city previously agreed to take over maintenance of a recently completed pedestrian bridge but the deed was never drafted; the bridge could be named once the city obtains the deed. Shewmaker characterized the deed issue as time-sensitive and urged members to contact those who could help complete it.

On transparency and recordings, Shewmaker said nothing in general law prohibits recording city meetings and posting them online, but state rules for remote meetings apply. The council has previously authorized uploading audio recordings to the city website once the site is functional; Bill Nichols offered help with posting recordings.

Mayor Kernodle said he would pursue demolition bids and council members discussed enforcement steps for other properties cited for violations.