A new member was appointed to the Odessa Board of Aldermen to fill the vacancy left by former Alderwoman Donna Ehlert in November 2025.

During a special meeting on Monday, January 26th, the board approved the appointment of Carl Crabtree to the vacant seat in Ward 2. Crabtree will serve on the board until the April 7th election.

During regular session Monday night, the board voted to execute a low-income home energy assistance program supplier agreement with the Missouri Department of Social Services. City Administrator Shawna Davis says this agreement makes funds available for Odessa residents who need help paying for the electric portion of their utility bills.

 

Aldermen also approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the City of Higginsville to form a multi-jurisdictional Law Enforcement Quick Response Team. Davis says this team would be able to provide more immediate mutual aid than the Missouri State Highway Patrol or other law enforcement agencies from the Kansas City metro area.

 

The Board of Aldermen will next meet on Monday, February 9th. The board plans to hold its second budget workshop prior to the regular session.