Gil Gates

The City Council meeting addressed several official actions and administrative items. Key discussions included the approval of invoices and payroll, and the approval of CMU invoices and salaries from a prior Board Meeting. A reappointment to the Board of Adjustments was approved. The Council considered and passed Ordinance #2026-01 regarding amendments to city code concerning Tiny Homes and Manufactured and Modular Homes, with one dissenting vote. Ordinance #2026-02 was approved, authorizing a contract with Conrad and Higgins, LLC for the annual audit, inclusive of the Bowling Alley and Golf Course. Public comments were received, and the City Administrator provided updates on building inspections, airport project documentation, the initiation of the budget process, and the drafting of a policy for future tax incentives. Council members inquired about live meeting feeds and the status of Opioid Settlement funds, and requested inspection of potholes near the School Bus Barn. A joint budget workshop date was proposed for the City Council and CMU.

The board discussed budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year, including necessary adjustments and line item reductions. A motion was passed to withdraw funds from the Tourism CD account with the possibility of reinvestment for the next fiscal year. Updates were provided on marketing initiatives such as summer soccer events, America 250 theme promotions, and Second Saturday events. Additionally, the board reviewed progress on sales and sports travel exchange activities, visitor traffic logs, product development regarding welcome signage, and ongoing partnership efforts for Sliced Bread Day.

The board discussed budget planning, specifically the addition of a full-time employee. Project updates included the Welcome Sign project, 2026 soccer initiatives, and marketing strategies such as social media growth, blogging, and the development of travel itineraries. The board also reviewed event planning for America 250, trade show participation for promotional purposes, and updates to office hours. The director provided information regarding the Highway 36 guide and the hosting of a KC heart statue.

The City Council meeting covered several administrative and financial items, including the approval of invoices, payroll, and utility salaries. Reappointment of a member to the Planning & Zoning Board was confirmed. Presentations were received regarding community programs and funding requests from Main Street, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Grand River Multipurpose Center. The Council approved an ordinance to amend the Professional Engineering Consulting Services Agreement. Administrative updates included the acquisition of a property at 821 Walnut Street, progress on City Hall RFQs, and plans for upcoming budget workshops. The Clerk provided updates on ongoing bids, conference attendance, and website notifications. The meeting concluded with a closed session concerning personnel matters.

The board reviewed the current budget and finalized the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Updates were provided regarding the hosting of the D23 group, the hiring process for a Digital Marketing Specialist, and the status of local tourism grants, which were all approved and allocated for the 2025 cycle. Additionally, the board discussed photography projects, the installation of a welcome sign, visitor logs, community calendar updates, and adjustments to office operating hours.