Shane J. Schrader

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the February 3, 2026, regular meeting. Key discussions included an invitation from the Buffalo Chamber of Commerce regarding their Winter Gala and Best of Buffalo awards. The Council considered and approved the preliminary plat for the GTI Minor Subdivision, which is located outside city limits but within the extraterritorial zone. The Johnson County Tourism Association presented an annual report on tourism activity for 2025. A resolution concerning the allocation of optional 1% sales taxes for FY Ending June 30, 2027, was adopted, setting the allocation at $250,000, although a higher amount was suggested by Councilman Haskins. The Council approved a four-year term appointment for Sabina Damone to the Buffalo Trails Board. Department updates included the Police Chief thanking the council for attending the WAM Winter Workshop and the Public Works Director reporting on ongoing repairs to ballfield dugouts and fencing at Prosinski Park. The session concluded with the approval of various bills for payment.

The City of Buffalo's 2025 Comprehensive Plan provides a guideline for community growth and development over the next five years. Key priorities include ensuring financial solvency, investing in infrastructure and capital improvements, focusing on employee retention and recruitment, and supporting parks and recreation. The plan also addresses housing needs, fosters economic development through business growth and tourism, and enhances community attractiveness, while also improving transportation. The overarching vision is to promote the general welfare, efficiency, and economy in development, thereby preserving and enhancing the quality of life in Buffalo.

The Buffalo City Council meeting included excusing the absence of a council member from a previous session. Key agenda items involved the approval of a catering permit request for an event utilizing a liquor license in another county, which carried despite concerns. The council also approved Resolution #1501, authorizing the submission of an unmet housing grant application to the State Loan and Investment Board for a sanitary sewer extension along Main Street. The governing body received an overview of the upcoming legislative session from House District 40 Representative Marilyn Connolly, covering topics like the biennium budget and various bills affecting local governments. Board appointments for the Buffalo Pool Board, Trails Board, Tree Board, Housing Authority Board, and Lodging Tax Board were approved. The City Attorney requested and received permission to send a settlement offer to Barnum Inc. regarding work performed on Flatiron Drive, adjusting for warranty work. Finally, the council approved the payment of various outstanding bills.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of water connections for Ponderosa Properties outside city limits, following a recommendation from the Planning & Zoning Board. The council received an update on the Operation Blue Santa charitable program, noting significant growth in donations over the last nine years. Senator Barry Crago provided an overview of the upcoming legislative session, focusing on budget, school recalibration/funding, and property taxes, and detailing several bills that would impact municipalities. The council approved a resolution to place a proposition on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot regarding a 1% specific purpose sales and use tax in Johnson County to fund road reconstruction. Furthermore, a letter of reimbursement between JOCO First and the City regarding the Bomber Mountain Civic Center insurance policy was approved. The Mayor's appointment of Heather Gorman Haas to the Optional 1% Committee for a four-year term was ratified, and the Police Chief presented a monthly activity report. Finally, the council approved the payment of numerous outstanding bills.

The City Council meeting included the approval of the agenda, which was modified to include the extension of the fuel dispensing facility operating agreement. Key actions involved the approval of Dennis Kirven as City Attorney and the designation of the Buffalo Bulletin as the Official Newspaper. Official depositories for funds were also designated. The Council awarded the Buffalo Water Tank Rehabilitation Project to Carr Coatings for $850,000. Board appointments were made to the Mountain Plains Heritage Park Joint Powers Board. The Planning Commission's recommendation for a Property Rental Rezone & Minor Subdivision at 158 & 160 Western Avenue from R-1 to R-2 was approved, as was the thirty-year fuel dispensing facility operating agreement. A police update was given, acknowledging National Law Enforcement Day, and it was noted that a left turn arrow on Fort Street is scheduled for installation in the summer. The session concluded with the approval of various bills for payment.