Kerry Brungardt

The work session focused primarily on the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan update and the 2021 Pavement Preservation Program, which mostly involves mill and overlay projects. Key capital improvement projects discussed included the K-7 and Eisenhower project, which is on track with property acquisition processes beginning after KDOT plan review completion, and efforts to increase the local match with KDOT funding. The De Soto and 4-H Roundabout project is progressing with property acquisition, though past grant funding was unsuccessful due to low pedestrian component scoring. Other items included the South Fork drainage tube project soliciting design services and maintenance planning for detention center ponds. Future projects noted were the continuation of the De Soto widening project and ongoing monitoring of traffic for the K-7 and Gilman intersection. Discussions also covered the need for pedestrian improvements at K-7 and 4-H, driven by potential residential development, and the necessary work on the Seven Mile Creek Bridge, which has a cost-share agreement with Leavenworth County. The pavement preservation plan detailed the 2021 mill and overlay priorities, noting that West McIntyre street constitutes a large portion due to failing petromat surfacing, requiring milling. The plan also included alternates like Hickory Trail, Pebble Beach, and 140th Street.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a confirmation that all members were present. Key agenda items involved the approval of the May 6, 2021 regular meeting minutes. Council consideration was given to the approval of the audit for the year ending December 31, 2020, which included a single audit due to federal funds received from the CARES Act, noting a qualified opinion due to non-compliance with GASB 75 regarding post-employment benefits, and also noting a prior period restatement. The council approved the scope and services agreement with George Butler Associates for design engineering services for the wastewater town center trunk sewer replacement project, not to exceed $78,396. Additionally, change order number one from Little Joe's Asphalt for additional mill overlay work was approved, not to exceed $184,770. The meeting included two executive sessions: one regarding non-elected personnel matters and another to review economic development activities. Council also received a report on the American Rescue Plan funds allocation ($1.67 million) and ongoing discussions regarding potential broadband improvement projects.

The meeting included old business regarding the approval of the regular meeting minutes from January 6, 2022, and special meeting minutes from January 10, 2022. New business covered the election of the Council President, which resulted in the appointment of Kerry Brungar. Key discussion points included approving a contract for services related to the aeration basin cleaning and de-watering, which involved removing one foot of solids and inorganic material, estimated to take five days with Environmental Works. The council also discussed a board vacancy for the Leavenworth County Port Authority, resulting in the nomination and election of Dan Clemens. Significant time was spent on discussing the proposed ward map updates based on 2020 census data, focusing on cleaning up boundaries and population balancing between wards. The administrator reported on the renewal of the auto and casualty insurance, which saw a six percent increase but remained competitive. Finally, the council was reminded that easements would be requested by utility providers for Bernard Park development, and plans were discussed for opening bids for Bernard Park construction, estimated at $5 million, to be paid for by the special sales tax.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the regular meeting minutes from February 18, 2021. The main discussion centered on New Business, specifically Ordinance Number 1055, which involved a request to rezone property at 0000 North Main Street from B3 (Regional Business District) to R4 (Multifamily Residential District) to allow for the development of additional multi-family housing. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval. Council members debated the proposal, expressing concerns regarding the increase in rental properties, potential negative impact on resale values of owner-occupied homes, and previous project issues with the developer involved. There was also discussion about the property lines, the incorporation of an old railroad right-of-way, and potential impacts on existing commercial areas near K7. Concerns about tree removal for development were raised, noting a lack of current specific ordinances for mitigation, though landscaping requirements in the Unified Development Ordinance were mentioned. The council acknowledged the need for future discussion on tree preservation policies.

The meeting commenced with roll call noting the absence of two members. Key discussions included the proclamation recognizing October 30th, 2021, as Military Retiree Appreciation Day, which was accepted on behalf of local retirees. The council recessed into a 15-minute executive session concerning economic development activities, specifically involving confidential financial data and trade secrets. Upon returning to open session, the council authorized the Mayor to submit a rezoning request for Lot One Town Center. Administrator reports included an announcement regarding the upcoming League of Municipalities legislative supper and the decision to postpone submitting a spec building application due to current city demands and workforce shortages. The Administrator also noted a busy schedule for the following week, which included a joint working supper with the School Board and a subsequent joint meeting with the Planning Commission. Updates were provided on the utilization of American Rescue Plan funds, focusing on broadband improvements and water/sewer projects aimed at spurring residential growth. Finally, appreciation was expressed to the Lions Club for donating benches at the Veterans Memorial at Bernard Park.