Casey’s Gets Green Light as Moscow Mills Weighs Airbnb Rules and Mayor Term Changes
- John Eads
- Jan 12
- 4 min read
MOSCOW MILLS, Mo. — The Moscow Mills Board of Aldermen met Monday evening, January 12, 2026, for a meeting that covered several major development projects, long-term governance questions, and city operations — drawing comments from residents and setting the stage for future decisions.
Residential Rezoning Request
The meeting opened with a rezoning request from KBR Land Development LLC for property located near 432 Highway MM. The request would allow for a residential development of approximately 34 single-family homes, though final plans are still being refined.
The mayor allowed the developer to address the board prior to discussion. No public comment was taken during this portion of the meeting. The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously recommended approval.
The developer indicated hopes to begin drawing plans later this year, with tree clearing anticipated before March and construction potentially beginning by winter. Following discussion, the board approved Ordinance No. 1139, rezoning the property as requested.
Casey’s General Store Proposal Draws Public Comment
A proposed Casey’s General Store development generated the most public discussion of the evening.
Several residents spoke with differing perspectives:
Tammy, who lives nearby, expressed concerns about increased traffic and safety within the neighborhood, stating she did not want the area to become an “enter and exit at your own risk” situation.
Brad, an attorney representing a resident, said his client had initially opposed the project but changed position after speaking directly with the developer and now supports the proposal.
Todd referenced a November 3 ordinance change that reduced the required distance between gas stations to 1,000 feet, noting there are now approximately five gas stations within a short radius of the area.
Kenny told the board he plans to sell his home and leave Moscow Mills as a result of the continued commercial development.
Planning and Zoning had recommended approval prior to the meeting. Alderman Quist acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, noting that the area has long been zoned commercial and that similar traffic concerns would exist regardless of which business developed the site.
It was stated that a nearby bus stop would be removed prior to construction per Lincoln County R-3 regulations.
The board approved Ordinance No. 1140 by a 4–0 vote, allowing the Casey’s project to move forward.
Mayor Term Length Proposal Revisited
Discussion then turned to whether the city should revisit a ballot measure to extend the mayoral term from two years to four years, a proposal that previously failed by one vote.
Alderman Aston supported placing the measure back on the ballot. Alderman Green raised concerns about being “stuck” with a mayor for four years if performance is poor. Alderman Quist stated he had no opposition to the idea.
Mayor Meyer clarified that any change would not affect the upcoming April election, as she filed under the current two-year term. She said she sees merit on both sides, noting that it takes time to become fully grounded in the role, while also acknowledging that voters ultimately decide through elections.
It was noted that adding the measure to the upcoming ballot would not incur additional costs. A motion was made and seconded to hold a special meeting to finalize ballot language. The meeting must occur before January 27 to meet election deadlines. The mayor stated she would coordinate scheduling with the Lions Club and aldermen.
Public Works and Infrastructure Updates
Public Works reported that the city recently passed inspections for both sewer and water systems.
Later in the meeting, the board reviewed a proposed concrete repair plan. The mayor and public works staff conducted inspections in November and December, identifying 30–35 areas requiring patchwork.
One bid was received totaling just under $69,000, equating to approximately $9.65 per square foot. The mayor noted that patchwork bids are difficult to secure and stated that two additional contractors quoted prices exceeding $10 per square foot.
Short-Term Rental (Airbnb) Discussion
The board also discussed the potential regulation of short-term rentals, including Airbnb properties.
City Engineer A.J. shared insight from other municipalities, noting that cities often face challenges related to traffic, parking, and unfamiliar visitors in residential areas.
The current draft ordinance would require one off-street parking space, though existing zoning already requires two spaces per residence. There is currently no occupancy permit process in place, which would need to be established.
Possible permit fees discussed included:
St. Louis City: $150
St. Louis County: $500 initial, $250 renewal
Kansas City: $200
Springfield: $25
The board agreed to continue the discussion at a future meeting.
Proposal to Increase Board Meetings
The meeting concluded with discussion on increasing board meetings from one per month to two.
Mayor Meyer explained that once-monthly meetings have led to delayed bill payments, slowed purchasing processes, and limited public access to approved meeting minutes. Under the proposed change, one meeting would focus on approving minutes while the second would address new business, allowing residents time to review actions before votes occur.
Alderman Quist opposed the change, stating he would prefer improved email responsiveness.
Alderman Vollmer supported the proposal, noting she has requested the change for more than a year.
Alderman Aston and the mayor also expressed support.
No final vote was taken.
Lincoln CountyWatch will continue covering Moscow Mills Board of Aldermen meetings, including the upcoming special meeting on the mayoral term length and future discussions regarding short-term rental regulations.
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