Dean Cordes

The council discussed renting the former Veterinarian clinic space for a nail salon, water leak adjustment applications, Building Permits, photos of a property on East Carthage Street, bids for the heating/air unit in the city building, the water line replacement project, the replacement of the bucket truck bucket and liner, repairs on Well #1, trees that had to be removed from the city park, the Beer License for Love's, and Personnel matters relating to non-elected personnel.

The Council approved an Appropriations Ordinance and a sidewalk application for property improvements. Significant discussion occurred regarding the testing and potential replacement of the North Substation Transformer due to increasing costs and equipment life concerns. The Council also reviewed utility extension requests, updates on proposed state taxation legislation, and maintenance reports regarding storm debris disposal, street grading, and water line infrastructure repairs. Additionally, several executive sessions were held to discuss personnel matters, resulting in the approval of role transitions and salary adjustments for three employees within the Electric and Power departments.

Key discussions included the presentation of the annual airport report by Evans, Bierly, Hutchison & Associates, P.A., which featured a five-year plan for a Box Hangar and Taxiway, and the approval of the Contract for Engineering Services for the FY27 T-Hangars project. The Council also approved an Appropriation Ordinance, a resolution concerning the unsafe structure located at 205 East Carthage Street, and the demolition of the condemned property at 509 N Fowler. Updates were provided on a small lift station bypass incident, progress on the pool sand filter installation, and the combining of two Highway 23 pavement projects into a single KDOT agreement. Furthermore, the Council decided to put the North substation transformer replacement out for bid after initial oil sample testing indicated high levels of Hydrogen and Methane. Approvals were also granted for the purchase of new carpet for the Library reservation room, discussion of a water main leak in City Park, and review of a pet adoption policy form.

The Council discussed various municipal issues, including requests for city pool facility upgrades, the status of North Substation Transformer quotes, and updates regarding vacant properties and property demolitions. The meeting covered infrastructure topics, such as a KDOT box bridge replacement project, approval of a sidewalk application, and the necessity of purchasing two engines for the Power Plant to address energy demand concerns. Additionally, the Council updated food truck vendor permit fees, approved utility extension requests, authorized a donation to the Crooked Creek Classic Committee, and reviewed law enforcement and treasurer reports. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters.

The City Council meeting included the presentation and approval of the sole bid received for the 2026 and 2027 water projects, contingent upon finalizing funding. During public comment, a request was approved to purchase seasonal banners for the Highway 54 poles using Special Project funding, managed in coordination with the Meade Chamber of Commerce. The Council approved two building permits and authorized a payment of $15,600 to the Meade Golf course for 2026 maintenance and operation. A decision was tabled regarding the power plant fire alarm system update, pending further bidding from other companies. The Council acknowledged the retirement of an employee who served for nearly 19 years. Furthermore, the Council approved renewing two Certificates of Deposit for 24 months with Meade State Bank, and the City Clerk received consensus approval to attend the 76th Annual CCMFOA Spring Conference. The session concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters.