Amended bill allows for new north-side bank

City Council approved a bill at its Jan. 28 meeting that will allow the construction of a Citizens National Bank at 2960 E. Kearney St.

The amended bill rezoned about one acre of land from a heavy manufacturing district to an office district.

"This is truly a vote for north Spring-field," Citizens Bank Chief Executive Officer Frank Hilton said. "We have great feelings about going in on the north side."

Hilton said a manager already has been selected to run the bank, which will provide "all of the services that are lacking up there."

Alcohol at Landers?

Council heard a first reading bill that would allow certain tax-exempt organizations in downtown Springfield to ob-tain a liquor license even if they are within 200 feet of another licensed liquor es-tablishment.

The bill is at the request of Springfield Little Theatre.

"All this does is give the Little Theatre exemption" to sell wine and beer over a time period of four hours on play nights, Finnie said. Specifically, the theater is requesting to sell alcohol during intermissions, which Finnie said is a fairly normal event at playhouses throughout the country.

The four-hour window would allow the sale of alcohol during pre- and post-play events.

But Finnie said, "The intent is to tie it into the performance." Sale would be limited to five nights per week.

The bill would also make exempt other downtown nonprofit organizations, such as the Sertoma Club and the Gillioz Theater.

One long-time season ticket holder spoke to council in opposition of the bill. Bruce McNeely, who said he and his wife have had season passes for all but two years since 1989, said he doesn't think it's appropriate when he often takes his children and grandchildren to plays.

"This is a wholesome, good, family activity in our community," McNeely said.

"I think there are enough venues for alcohol consumption in the area."

McNeely said he is so strongly opposed to it that he is heading up a committee to determine the number of season ticket holders who also oppose the idea.

Frank Carnahan, who has been a past director of the theater, told council that it would generate about $1,000 to $1,500 in revenue and would enhance the theater experience for the patrons.

Trash cleanup

Another first reading bill heard would establish a program to provide funding for trash pickups and creating a trash cleanup fund for chronic, problem properties.

City Manager Tom Finnie said there are about six situations per year of trash pile-ups in yards which need serious help from the city.

The budget would be amended in the amount of $40,000. But Finnie said the bill would not require additional funding.

"We will simply use the funds we have on hand," he said.

Finnie said the city will pay for the cleanup up front, and through a court order the city will receive payment from the individuals who benefit from that city service.

City water

Council also approved a special ordinance authorizing Finnie to enter into an agreement between the Watershed Com-mittee of the Ozarks, Greene County and the Board of Public Utilities for services related to protection of the drinking wa-ter supply for the city.