Sedalia Council Agrees To Split Cost of Adding Logos To Water Tower With Lions Club

The Sedalia City Council approved an agreement on Monday night with the Sedalia Lions Club to place the City's logo on both sides of the water tower at Water Tower Road (just north of West 16th Street, across from SFCC) at a cost of $80,000.

The Lions Club is spearheading an effort to raise half of the money needed, or $40,000. The City has pledged to provide the other half.

“This is more than a symbol on a water tower,” commented Mayor Andrew Dawson in a press release. “It's a beacon of unity, our pride, and our collective identity as Sedalians. We commend the Sedalia Lions Club for their unwavering dedication and are excited to bring this vision to life.”

A resolution was passed during the regular City Council meeting after a six-minute discussion. The vote was 7-1, with First Ward Councilman Jack Robinson casting the only no vote.

The resolution allowed for an increase in the City's budget for FY 2024, and aims to bolster community spirit.

Some Council members had reservations about spending that much on two logos.

“I think that's a lot of money,” said Fourth Ward Councilwoman and Mayor Pro Tem Rhiannon Foster. “I get calls every day about potholes and sidewalks.

First Ward Councilman Tom Oldham countered Foster comments.

“This falls within our branding efforts that we've been working on for a few years now. It's been a goal for us to put it on our water tower,” Oldham said.

Third Ward Councilman Bob Hiller expressed his reservations about spending that kind of money on logos. “We deal with the citizens every day, and I just think we need to take care of business,” Hiller said, referring to potholes, sidewalks and grass that needs mowing.

Hiller noted that he has several friends who belong to the Lions Club, and he appreciates their efforts.

Mayor Dawson said the City should take advantage of the Lions Club's offer “to do half the work” and raise $40,000.

The Lions Club conducted an informal study and concluded that the newest water tower on the west side of town was the best location for the logos due to its visibility.

The "Sedalia -- Let's Cross Paths"  logo, created by Callis & Associates, is already prevalent on City letterheads, press releases Council Chambers and on the website.

A little over two years ago, Council agreed to spend $100,000 for a new website for the City of Sedalia with Callis Advertising Agency.