Monica Villalobos

The Governing Body processed a consent agenda including financial claims, payroll, a merchant police service license, a one-day cereal malt beverage license, and the approval of a resolution for an Art and Wine Walk event. The meeting included the presentation of an annual report from the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and a monthly economic development report. The Council approved several property maintenance abatements involving the removal of trash and nuisance motor vehicles from multiple residential properties. Additionally, the Council authorized a change order for the waterline improvement project, incorporating additional waterline replacements, line abandonment, and the installation of fire hydrant nozzles.

The council approved various consent agenda items, including financial registers, a board appointment, a tree trimmer license, and logistics for the Party in the Park event. The council discussed a property issue raised by a resident regarding a camper and considered adding a future work session to discuss council stipends. Additionally, the council received an administrative update and approved nuisance abatements for three separate properties.

The Council approved the third amendment to the MIH-ARPA grant agreement to extend construction deadlines and update disbursement schedules. The Council terminated the agreement with the current Fixed-Base Operator and authorized a new contract with BeckAir Services LLC. No action was taken regarding emergency repairs for a utility truck, as staff recommended exploring replacement options. The Council established a partnership with Barton County for a Façade Improvement Grant program and awarded a bid for the 2026 asphalt resurfacing projects. Additionally, the Council conducted a performance review for the City Administrator and approved a 4% salary increase.

The City Council conducted a public hearing regarding the adoption of the Great Bend STAR Bond Project Plan. The council passed Ordinance No. 4473, which officially adopts the project plan for the redevelopment of the Project Area. This plan encompasses the creation of a major multi-sport athletic complex, a drag strip racing facility, a racing museum, an event center, and associated hotel, restaurant, and retail facilities. The council further authorized the future issuance of special obligation notes or bonds to finance the project and directed the distribution of the ordinance to relevant county and educational authorities.

The Governing Body addressed several administrative and development items. Key discussions included the approval of fireworks displays and a new ordinance governing their discharge, the authorization of local banking institutions as official depositories, and the approval of a federal grant agreement for the Safe Streets for All safety action plan. Additionally, the council moved to call for a public hearing regarding the adoption of a STAR Bond project plan for a multi-sport and commercial development at the airport district and established a committee to manage community education regarding a proposed sales tax increase.