Jason Bennett

The regular session covered committee reports, including updates from the Finance Committee and Zoning Board of Adjustment Commission, which approved a Home Occupation Variance for Thomas O'Connell. Key discussions involved a scheduled guest's concerns about an over-the-counter medication, which the City Attorney is investigating, and a scheduled guest's safety concerns regarding an intersection. Department reports included an update on court docket continuances, a trial with Heartland Environmental regarding sludge-eating bacteria at the water treatment plant, and the potential need to replace a failing fan on the Number One river pump. The Mayor reported on illegal dumping incidents posted online and mentioned new federal regulations for drinking water reports requiring action by June 30. New business included a discussion regarding RRA and ERP Certification Requirements.

The City Council meeting included action on several scheduled guests and committee reports. The council approved special event requests from the Butler Chamber of Commerce, the Kansas City Carp Anglers for a fishing tournament, and the Bates County Museum for 'Old Settlers Day'. The Student Advisory Committee reported on their Valentine's Day activities. The Planning Commission reported approval of a Re-Zoning Request (R-2 to R-4) by Vision Development Group, LLC, which was subsequently approved by the Council after a public hearing concerning potential housing development density and infrastructure. The Council passed two ordinances: one authorizing execution of a supplemental agreement for highway/rail crossing improvements with MoDot and the Railroad, and another authorizing the Mayor's signature on the Transportation Enhancements Funds Program Agreement for a sidewalk project. The Police Personnel Board approved the hiring of a new officer. Reports were also given on the Airport Commission meeting (no quorum for action) and the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting (no quorum). In New Business, the Council approved the Council's portion of the electric bill payment to MPUA over nine months and approved offering a special extension to customers for utility payments. The Council also discussed traffic control measures near the Ft. Scott Intersection, favoring speed bumps over a speed sign due to location constraints.

Key discussions during the meeting involved the approval of bids for copiers and printers, with a decision made to proceed with the Lakeland Office Systems bid effective April 1. The council reviewed the sale of the current CPA audit firm to a new entity headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and scheduled a future meeting to receive a quarterly report from MarksNelson. A Mock City Council Meeting was scheduled for February 26. Police Chief Wheatley reported the conclusion of a major narcotics case. The City Attorney reported on progress for the Chapter 100 project, requiring future hearings. Reports on the Water Plant and Wastewater Treatment Plant operations were reviewed, noting a repair to a leaking seam on the East holding tank. The Mayor addressed condolences for the Neely family loss, updates on Rice Road maintenance, progress on a drainage study concerning flooding, and a recent water line break on Pine Street. The Mayor also emphasized the use of the Textcaster notification system. Council members extended thanks to city employees for their work.

Key discussions included the first and second readings and subsequent adoption of Ordinance No. 1192, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute the agreement with Allgeier Martin and Associates, Inc. for sidewalk project design along Ft. Scott Street. The Council adopted Resolution No. 542, amending the fiscal year budget to appropriate funds for airport fuel purchases and management services from Allied Water. Other topics involved providing cell phone service and monthly charges for the Senior Center, updates on the Parks & Recreation Commission (lack of quorum) and Planning Commission (potential new housing complex), approving the purchase of a new scoreboard for the Girl's Softball Field using ARPA funds and a local business contribution, using $54,000.00 of Line Improvement budget for fire hydrant purchases, and using remaining ARPA funds to clear trees near the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Council also requested receiving future documents via Drop Box.

Key discussions during the meeting included the retirement of Tim Payne after thirty-eight years of service. Department reports covered the issuance of code violations, updates on the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants, including DNR test trials, maintenance on root meters, and a request to switch from chlorine gas to a bleach solution, pending cost analysis. The council approved the purchase of a used work truck for the Cemetery Department from the Cemetery Perpetual Fund. The Mayor noted the installation of new murals at Main Street Park and play structures at Douglas Park, and requested a work session regarding the Comprehensive Plan. There was also a request for an update on the Rice Road annexation.