The Stoddard County Commission began their 2024 year with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer over the county officials, state officials, police and fire and all those serving in the military.

Alisha Trammel, Dexter Chamber of Commerce - Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Update

“I just wanted to add or rather explain a couple of things that were in the press release,” commented Trammel.

1.  Investment of $13 million putting into the upgrades of the processing plant, mill and hatchery.  That is their initial estimate of investment into the buildings and the process.

2.  Employment numbers will be in phases.  Phase one is 96 employees.  That 96 comes from the Missouri Works Program and other state incentives.  County wage island average of $44,000 per person currently and they will have to pay 80% of their salaries and 50% of their insurance benefits.  They must have 96 employees and if they do not they are the disqualified from the Missouri Works Program.  

Tyson pursued Cal Maine Foods, Inc. to purchase the buildings.

"We are actively recruiting for more businesses," stated Trammell.  "The hotel project is coming along.  I am actually meeting this week to get some dates.”

Motion to accept the meeting minutes from Friday, December 29, 2023 made by Commissioner Jarrell, seconded by Commissioner Stewart.  All three voted yes and motion passed.

Important dates:

Martin Luther King Jr. day is Monday, January 15, 2024/ County offices are closed

January 10, 2024 is the last day to Register to Vote for February 6, 2024 Bond Election

Final Certification for the April 2, 2024 General Municipal Election is January 23, 2024.

Absentee Voting Begins for March 5, 2024 Charter Election is January 23, 2024

No Excuse Absentee Voting begins for February 6, 2024 Bond Election is January 23, 2024

Motion to enter into closed session made by Commissioner Jarrell, seconded by Commissioner Stewart. All three voted yes and motion passed.