News Editor Digging by fiber optic companies is going to continue in Lexington for the foreseeable future, and Mayor Tom Hughes during last Tuesday night’s City Council meeting urged residents to be patient and use appropriate means for dealing with issues that may arise.

“Underground boring is going to continue through the fall and possibly until next spring,” commented Hughes. “They’re going to be here for a while.”

Although some residents have turned to social media to air their complaints about companies leaving damage to their properties behind, Hughes stressed that is not the right path to take.

“If you have damage to your property, you need to call City Hall and Building Official Tom White,” said Hughes, adding the companies are responsible for repairing any damage.

City Administrator Shawnna Funderburk reminded everyone that the companies have a perfect legal right to dig in Lexington.

“We can’t prevent them from coming and doing work,” said Funderburk.

The Administrator also called for cooperation with gas line mapping efforts that are currently taking place in the city.

“It’s a safety issue for everyone, so please cooperate,” said Funderburk.

In other matters:

• Council members approved street closures in connection with the Lexington Community Fair.

• Funderburk said White has agreed to become a member of the Missouri 811 operations committee. According to a Missouri 811 social media post, committee meetings “are where operational issues get raised, concerns get heard, and real solutions get worked out together.”

Funderburk said White is a perfect fit since he has worked hard on ensuring safe digging practices in Lexington.

• The Council approved using Blue Shield grant funds, if awarded, for the records management system at the police department.

• The Council tabled Hughes’ request for city staff to draft an ordinance that would allow the Mayor to serve as an ex-officio member of all city boards and commissions.

The City Attorney said that state statute allows for mayors of third-class cities to serve as ex-officio members of city boards and commissions. Ex-officio members are not allowed to vote except to break a tie.

Hughes stated he already serves as an ex-officio member on several city boards and commissions.

• Councilwoman Beth Hansen complained that a member of the Hospital Board was unfairly cut off by the Mayor from finishing a presentation at a recent Council meeting. Hughes said the member was told to keep his presentation short, but Hansen stated everyone should be given enough time to finish their presentation before the Council.