Council advances stream-gauge agreement with state and accepts trail right-of-way for Green Pines connection

City staff presented two connected infrastructure items: a proposed site-access agreement with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to install and maintain a stream gauge at Wildhorse Creek Road Bridge No. 392, and a proposed deed dedication of 4,937 square feet of common ground from the Hickory Manor homeowners association to create a right-of-way for a pedestrian and cycling multiuse trail to Green Pines Park.

The city administrator said the gauge will be installed at no cost to the city and will provide real-time flood data; the equipment will be placed in perpetuity with the state and the DNR agreed to notify the city before any future work requiring road access or closures. Council and staff discussed signage and how the gauge data could support flashing high-water warning signs and public outreach. Director Vunich and Public Works staff said the trail dedication is tied to an East-West Gateway grant to complete the link between Towne Center and Green Pines Park and requested council consider a second reading so work can proceed on the schedule.