Nov 15, 2024 Local News
Desloge, Mo. (KFMO) - Tension again filled the Desloge City Hall meeting room Friday afternoon as the Desloge Board of Aldermen met in special session.
One item was originally scheduled for the agenda, an ordinance engaging special counsel for the impeachment proceedings of Mayor Peter Pasternak. Pasternak attempted to amend the agenda, saying that there had been a request from the public to add public comment. A motion was made by Alderwoman Debra Kester, but the remainder of the Board refused to second, leading to unrest from the large crowd gathered for the meeting.
Alderman Mark Bonney eventually acceded and made a second, but the motion failed in roll call, with only Kester voting for, leading to more jeers from the public.
Arguments continued, and the public continued to vocalize their concerns despite the shutdown of the public comment motion. Pasternak argued, despite the board calling for a vote numerous times, that the board should not be able to continue with the listed item, as it had been on the agenda during an attempted meeting deemed illegal earlier in the week. In addition, Pasternak argued the Board had been ruled to “start over” following a temporary restraining order granted by Judge Robert Fulton.
Despite Pasternak’s objections, the board moved forward anyway, passing the ordinance with only Kester objecting. The Mayor was asked to recuse himself in signing the ordinance by Alderman John Wigger, but he declined to do, leading to another interjection from the crowd.
Pasternak informed the board he would get back to them on the matter. The board then adjourned. A court hearing is scheduled for September 10th at the St. Francois County Courthouse in Farmington.
