Nacke approved as new HPD Chief

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal has a new police chief. During Tuesday’s meeting, city council members approved the nomination of Lt. Jacob Nacke to succeed the retiring Lyndell Davis as Chief of Police.

In presenting her nomination of Nacke, City Manager Lisa Peck said two internal candidates were interviewed for the job. Peck did not name the other candidate. Nacke has 16 years experience with the Hannibal Police Department. He has a Master’s Degree in Justice Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Among his other qualifications, Nacke has been a Field Training Officer, Mobile Forensics Investigator, Detective, Narcotics Investigator, and Special Response Team Leader while with HPD. 

Council gave first reading to the 2022/2023 budget during the meeting The budget includes a 3 percent raise across the board for all employees. Mayor James Hark admits that 3 percent does not cover the hike in the Consumer Price Index, he said the city is not in the position to offer more. Peck said several capital projects have been canceled, but the $28,647,155 budget is balanced as is required by the city charter. Council also gave first reading to the ordinance which will pay officers and employees of the city.

During the regular meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Mike Dobson related the results of a meeting he and the City Manager held with representatives of the Missouri Department of Transportation to learn more about the 3rd Street Viaduct project. Earlier, council had set a tentative public hearing date so residents could bring their concerns and questions about the project to the city. Dobson noted that MODOT will conduct its own public meeting to explain the project once plans have been finalized. According to the timeline discussed during the meeting with MODOT, Dobson said plans should be finalized by July and bids will be let in September. Construction should begin in early 2023.

One concern expressed by many people was whether trucks will still be able to pass under the viaduct. MODOT said the Viaduct will have a 15 foot 6 inch clearance at Warren Barrett Drive. Council will hold a public hearing before the June 21 meeting for residents who want to voice their concerns.