CAPE, JACKSON DEVELOP GOOD RELATIONS

A coming together of Cape Girardeau and Jackson city governments to discuss mutual concerns at a meeting that the public may also attend is evidence that a fresh spirit of cooperation has developed between the two communities in an effort to accomplish goals that will be beneficial to both.

It wasn't too long ago that Cape Girardeau and Jackson -- both hungry for unincorporated areas between the two cities -- squabbled over the issue of annexation. It was so heated that Jackson and Cape Girardeau went head to head in court in the early 1980s over what a judge ultimately ruled was an overly aggressive land grab by Cape Girardeau. Cape Girardeau was forced to withdraw, and the limits of both cities have since grown together in tranquil fashion, with Interstate 55 serving somewhat as a boundary between them in the area along Highway 61.

That is all history. Today the mayors of both towns and their governing bodies realize the importance of working together on mutual concerns. And the Jan. 26 meeting, which will be held at 7 p.m. at Cape Girardeau's Osage Centre, will break new ground to bring about the betterment of both cities.

Discussion at the meeting is expected to focus on four major issues:

-- Jackson's plans for extension of East Main Street to hook up with I-55.

-- A state highway bypass project in the Cape Girardeau-Jackson area.

-- The possibility of establishing a common water line in case of emergencies.

-- Annexation.

Jackson has experienced rapid residential growth eastward in the area of East Main, and it makes sense to link that street with I-55 to offer a third interstate access.

The state is studying five alternatives for a bypass of Jackson to more efficiently move eastbound traffic to I-55, and regardless of the route chosen, it too would help alleviate the heavy volume of traffic that can now only use Highway 61.

City officials realize that an earthquake, tornado or major fire could deprive one of the towns of its water supply, and a common water line between them could be a lifesaver.

Both towns will continue to expand their boundaries, and it is logical that Cape Girardeau consider future annexations in the Route K area and Jackson along Highway 25 south, as well as westward along Highway 34.

The cities also expect to discuss a fifth item: formal approval of an agreement in which both would share in the costs of operating the local cable television access channel. The agreement largely has been worked out.

This cooperative effort is largely an outgrowth of the friendship between Cape Girardeau Mayor Al Spradling III and Jackson Mayor Paul Sander. They recognize benefits that come out of cooperation and each city knowing the plans of the other now that their boundaries touch. And that will go a long way to avoid any potential future disagreements.