Evan Casey

The council discussed and approved sending Bekah Leach to the Kansas Housing Conference, covering the registration fee, meals, and travel expenses.

The council conducted interviews for the City Clerk position and ultimately hired Alice Grimm. They approved a common consumption area for Homecoming activities, including a live band and requests for additional utilities and sanitation facilities. The council also discussed a donation to the Madison Jr./Sr. High Student Council, training for the Deputy Clerk, and the phasing out of manual read meters. Additionally, they considered a generator for the water plant and approved the purchase of an LED sign. The need to address water lines was also discussed, with the potential for applying for a CDBG grant.

The council discussed the Volunteer Fire Department's search for a new pumper truck and approved the purchase of gravel for the fire department's concrete work. They also discussed the installation of a new LED sign, new library board members, a roll-off cart for downtown businesses, and parking issues. The council voted to approve the fuel pump installation and to paint the curb to indicate no parking. They discussed the generator for the sewer plant and the possibility of a generator for the water plant. The council went into executive session to discuss employees to the Non-Elected Personnel Matter Exception and continued accepting applications for the City Clerk position. They are also looking to develop a wage scale for all positions and possibly provide health insurance.

The council discussed various topics including a request from John and Brenda Evans for an extension to fix their garage, a donation to PAWS, and the renewal of Dollar General's CMB license. Alice provided updates on the yearly audit, potential candidates for the treasurer position, and masonry work on Standpipe Road. The council also discussed waiving installation and meter fees for the FFA building, generator installations at the tower and sewer plant, and stone work at 225 ½ Main Street. The resignation of Jody Thomas was discussed, and the council considered appointing Tony Fankhauser to fill the vacancy.

The meeting addressed several topics including a thank you from a member of the public for the fog coat on McCurry St. The council discussed the Ball Field Renovation Project, including updates and funding. There was also discussion regarding the tear down of a structure on S. Mulberry St. The council voted to close City Hall for cybersecurity training for the Deputy Clerk. The June 2023 financial report was presented, and the 2024 Budget was discussed. Water rates were also discussed, and the Council decided to get in contact with Mike Peroo to figure out what the city water rates need to be adjusted to. The Council received an Agreement for preliminary engineering design services from Schwab & Eaton for the CCLIP Grant. The council also reviewed bids for work on W. Main, and chose to go with the stone bid with the condition that a sample of the stone be provided prior to installation. The High School is looking for community service opportunities.