HOPKINS, Mo. — A heated dispute over truck parking in Hopkins has been put on hold—because city officials can’t access the only known copy of a relevant ordinance believed to be locked inside a city safe.
During Monday evening’s Hopkins Board of Aldermen meeting, neighbors Tim Hoepker and Mike Stump clashed over truck and trailer parking along West Thompson Street. Hoepker expressed frustration that Stump’s parking makes it difficult to access his barn. Stump argued that the area had long been designated for truck parking, adding that he had “rocked it several times.”
Tensions rose until Mayor Matt Wray stepped in to calm the discussion, as board members reviewed available maps and documents. Several officials had driven by the area following last month’s introduction to the issue.
The real issue? The only official copy of the relevant ordinance is reportedly locked inside a city safe—with a broken handle and no known access code.
City staff did locate an unsigned, undated proposed ordinance, believed to be from 2012, which prohibits parking of any commercial vehicle or truck over one ton or exceeding 20 feet in length or 6.5 feet in width on city streets—except during loading and unloading. Violators would face a $250 fine per occurrence. The ordinance draft does not reference any designated truck parking zones.
City employee Chris Bird said he plans to contact Maryville Glass and Lock to open the safe.
Mayor Wray suggested ordering signs to reflect the ordinance once it’s confirmed. The board agreed to table the issue until the correct ordinance version could be reviewed.
Water Bill Policy Changes
The board also addressed changes to its water service policy:
- New water deposits will increase from $200 to $300.
- Service will now be shut off after two months of nonpayment.
- After three months of no payment or contact, properties will be added to the delinquent list and flagged for potential liens.
As of June 2, 61 properties are listed for delinquent water bills. 31 are just one month behind, while 17 are four or more months overdue.
Community Cleanup and Other News
- Alderman Thompson was approved to rent a dumpster at city expense for the Hopkins Community Betterment cleanup, scheduled for June 27–29.
- The city will accept tires at the cleanup, citing mosquito-related health risks.
- The board also discussed whether the cemetery is being mowed too frequently, with no final decision made.
City staff remain hopeful they can soon access the ordinance safe and settle the ongoing truck parking controversy.