City takes possession of Bernie armory

Representatives from the Missouri National Guard were on hand Wednesday to present the keys to the Bernie Armory to the City of Bernie. Those on hand for the event were: (from left) Missouri National Guard Capt. Chris Mickan, S.S.G. Steven Burch, Missouri National Guard Deputy Director of Facilities Paul Junkans, Bernie Alderman Todd Young, Bernie Alderman Reba Owens, Bernie City Superintendent Dewayne Lindley, Bernie Mayor Willard Adams, and Bernie Alderman Don Treat. [Click to enlarge]

BERNIE - After months of phones calls and letter writing, the Bernie's city government finally has the keys to the local National Guard Armory. Bernie Mayor Willard Adams first received notice the Bernie armory would be closing on Oct. 24. and immediately decided the armory would be an asset to the city.

"Within the hour I contacted representatives Otto Bean and Rob Mayer to asked for their help in getting the armory for the city," Adams said. "I'd like to express my appreciation to State Representatives Otto Bean and Rob Mayer for their support in this endeavor. They are always there any time we need them and they never fail to respond."

The next step for the city is to put the newly acquired building to the best possible use. Adams said they will be deciding exactly what type of events to hold and rental fee amounts. Adams said they are also looking at the possibility of putting office space in part of the building to be rented out to private business.

"We're going to form a committee to plan out the restrictions on usage," Adams said.

The committee will consist of Ward II Alderman Lois Hicks, Ward II Alderman Reba Owens, Pam Treat and Bernie City Superintendent Dewayne Lindley.

The building is currently being leased by the city until Missouri House Bill 462 passes legislature and the deed is signed over to the city.

"The original draft of the lease was sent to our city attorney, but before she could even get back to them with questions, they had modified it for our approval," Adams said.

There had been questions over which party would be responsible for improvements while ownership was in this transitional period.

Under the terms of the lease, the Missouri National Guard is responsible for major improvements, such as major roof repair or heating and cooling replacement. The city will be responsible for routine maintenance and will assume the utilities.

Adams said the bill working its way through the House has, so far, been introduced, undergone the first and second readings, referred to the local government committee, had a public hearing, passed through executive session and has been voted to pass consent. Adams said he has been told the bill is on a fast track to being passed.

Adams said because it is now a city building, it will be a smoke and alcohol free facility.

Beginning on Thursday, the armory will be open to morning walkers from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

The armory was originally built in 1940 on land granted by Joseph and Emma Tuttle.

Dan Burkemper can be reached via e-mail at dburkemper@dailystatesman.com