At Monday’s Ellis City Council Meeting, new Mayor Lyle Johnston was sworn in and the council heard discussions on water.  No decisions were made on water.

The most important item discussed was the Interlocal agreement. Earlier this month, the council had reportedly voted to share 50% of the sales tax with the county.  However, the motion was actually to propose to the county to draft an agreement to share 50% of the tax.

The vote was also recorded incorrectly.  The city communicated the outcome of the vote on the issue to the League of Kansas Municipalities. The vote was 2 in favor, 2 opposed and 2 abstentions.  It was recorded as passed.

However, the League confirmed that the motion actually failed. Kimberly Winn, Deputy Director of the League told Eagle News, “It is confusing and we frequently speak with communities on the issue.  An ordinance needs a flat majority of votes to pass. On Regular motions, you have to first look at the number of individuals voting yes or no.  In this instance the vote was two yes, two no and the mayor decided not to break the tie. The two abstentions go with the majority and the vote is recorded officially as failing 2-4.”

The city council has decided it will consider the interlocal agreement again after the County makes a sales tax presentation in Ellis on April 25.  That meeting is scheduled for the VFW, 813 Jefferson Street, at 7 p.m.