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Author: Becky Kiser

Fire rating for Ellis improves

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Ellis Fire Chief Dustin Vine

 

ELLIS – Good news was presented to the Ellis City Council this week by Ellis Fire Chief Dustin Vine.

Vine told the council Monday that the city’s ISO rating improved from a 5 to a 4. The improvement may result in better fire insurance rates for the city and residents.

Vine also reported the department received $251.30 from Ness County in relief aid from FEMA for the Ellis Fire Department’s mutual aid during the large grass fire in Ransom last year.

The complete meeting minutes follow.

 

ELLIS CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING Minutes April 16, 2018

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor David McDaniel called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Council members Bret Andries, Susan Eaton, Jolene Niernberger, Dena Patee, and Bob Redger. Also present were Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman, City Clerk Amy Burton, Police Chief Taft Yates, Fire Chief Dustin Vine, and City Attorney Olavee Raub. Council member Holly Aschenbrenner was absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA
Mayor David McDaniel requested discussion of business incentives as an addition to the agenda under Old Business.
PUBLIC PRESENT
Myles Vine, Westin Vine, Barbara Perkins, and Glen Keller.
CONSENT AGENDA
Council member Dena Patee moved to approve the consent agenda containing the Minutes from the Regular Meeting on April 2, 2018 and Bills Ordinance #2043. Council member Bret Andries seconded the motion. The Council approved the consent agenda 5-0.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
None
PRESENTATIONS OF AWARDS, PROCLAMATIONS, REQUESTS & PETITIONS (HEARINGS)
None
SPECIAL ORDER
Fire: Report
Fire Chief Dustin Vine announced the City’s ISO rating improved from a “5” to a “4”. Council directed City Clerk Amy Burton to inquire with the City’s insurance provider to see if any financial adjustment is available on the City’s insurance package. Chief Vine also reported the Department received $251.30 from Ness County for relief aid received from FEMA for the Department’s mutual aid efforts for the large grass fire in Ransom in 2017.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Capital Improvement: Special Project
Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman discussed several options for adding sidewalks between 14th Street and 15th Street in the area of Washington Elementary School. At the last Council meeting, Council member Bob Redger relayed concerns from a School Board member regarding the lack of sidewalks for children walking between the elementary school and the high school. The City would bear the costs to add the sidewalks and handicap accessible ramps, but then each property owner would become financially responsible for maintaining and keeping the walkways clear. Council requested tabling further discussion until the next meeting in order for Council members to personally view the area. Mr. Scheuerman will prepare a rough map illustrating the options discussed, including cost estimates.
Public Works: Special Project
Mr. Scheuerman requested discussion on designating a location for the City’s stockpile of asphalt and concrete. Most of the City’s land is currently under various lease agreements, and Council agreed it would be the most cost effective to use land the City already has available. Therefore, Council member Dena Patee moved and Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded a motion for the Public Works Department to create a dirt berm at the old temporary sludge pit to use as the location to stockpile concrete and asphalt for future crushing. The motion carried 5-0.
Streets: Repair/Maintenance
Mr. Scheuerman announced that Ellis County Commissioners have approved the maintenance work on Washington Street from 3rd Street to the Bridge. The County will pay to perform the maintenance work on the center driving lanes; however, the City will be responsible for the eight feet of parking lanes on each side. The County has provided an estimate of $24,007.28 to perform this maintenance work. Mr. Scheuerman recommended Council approve the project as Washington Street is shaped like a “W” and the work will even out the street and improve drainage. The City will have additional costs in lowering three manholes and three valves for the work to be performed, and then raised again once complete. Also, the County plans to seal the roadway in the fall, and the City would pay for the costs to seal the parking lanes. Council member Bob Redger moved and Council member Bret Andries seconded a motion to approve Ellis County performing maintenance work on Washington Street at a total cost not to exceed $28,000, with funds to come from the Capital Improvement – Street fund. The motion carried 5-0.
General Government: Economic Development
Council once again discussed incentives to bring new businesses to downtown. Ideas discussed included the sales tax rebate program presented in March, Neighborhood Revitalization Plans, and Community Improvement Districts. Council would like to invite Aaron White, Ellis County Coalition, to a future meeting to provide ideas and explanations on the various incentive plans available.
NEW BUSINESS
General Government: Contract
Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented two invoices from Flatlander Dirt Works for the demolition and removal of the properties at 208 W. 12th Street and 1309 Fauteux. The invoices are slightly higher than the approved bids due to the increased municipal waste present in the properties that had to be disposed of. Mr. Scheuerman explained that the contractor’s submitted bids based on a street assessment of the property; they were not allowed to enter the property to evaluate the contents. Council member Dena Patee moved and Council member Bob Redger seconded a motion to ratify the invoices from Flatlander Dirt Works in the amount of $5,740.35 and $6,329.50 for the removal of the two condemned properties, with the funds to come from the Capital Improvement – Special Projects fund. The motion carried 5-0.
Water: Acquisition
Council member Bob Redger moved to approve the bid from Brenntag in the amount of $1,095, plus hazardous materials fees, for the purchase of chlorine for the Water Treatment Plant, with funds to come from the Water Utility fund. Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0.
Personnel: Insurance
City Clerk Amy Burton requested authorization to sign an agreement allowing Freedom Claims Management, Inc. to solicit employee health insurance bids on the City’s behalf. Council member Bret Andries moved to authorize the City Clerk to sign the Consultant of Record Agreement and to authorize the Clerk to sign similar type agreements in the future. Council member Dena Patee seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0.
Campground: Policy
Mayor David McDaniel proposed Council approve a policy allowing local non-profit groups, such as the Boy and Girl Scouts, to use the Lakeside Campground free of charge. Currently, the groups must appear before Council to obtain approval. Mayor McDaniel would like for Council to adopt a policy allowing the groups to use the campgrounds free of charge without having to petition Council for approval. City Clerk Amy Burton explained that her office is currently not authorized to grant free stays at the campground, and that the groups have petitioned Council for approval in the past because it is forgiveness of revenue for the City. Council discussed the pros and cons of granting blanket authority to allow these local non-profit groups to use the campgrounds at their discretion, but came to a consensus that the groups should still appear before Council to request approval. Therefore, no action was taken.
REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS
Public Works
Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented the Comparative Water Report for the period February 10th – March 10th and the current water well levels.
A resident has filed a medical claim regarding an injury due to the uneven asphalt and curb and gutters on 14th Street from Monroe to Walnut St. Mr. Scheuerman added that 14th Street from Monroe to Madison has the same issue. The areas could be patched to avoid further injuries; however, Mr. Scheuerman stated the patches won’t hold as the underlying asphalt and concrete are broken up. It was the consensus of Council to have the Public Works Department patch the areas as needed and to budget for the proper repairs in 2019.
Police
Police Chief Taft Yates reminded Council of the DARE graduation in May. All officers have completed their required 40 hours of training for the fiscal year.
City Clerk
City Clerk Amy Burton presented the Health Insurance Savings Report for March. Blue Cross Blue Shield has submitted their renewal proposals for employee dental and term life and disability insurance. Ms. Burton will include the proposal for consideration at the next Council meeting.
Interviews for summer swimming pool help will begin this week. Ashley Rohleder and Alyssa Dawson have agreed to co-manage the pool again this year.
Council then entered into a lengthy discussion regarding the City’s website. Tourism Committee member Dena Patee reported that efforts to obtain a grant to build a new website appear to have fallen through. Council directed Ms. Burton to contact our current web host provider to gather more information about the City’s current site.
Attorney
Mayor Update and Announcements
Mayoral committee appointments are to be made by the first of May. Mayor David McDaniel asked for Council members to offer possible names for consideration.
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS
Mayor David McDaniel asked for a motion to recess into executive session at the request of Police Chief Taft Yates. Council member Jolene Niernberger moved for City Council to recess into executive session for 5 minutes to discuss staffing in the Police Department pursuant to the non-elected personnel matter exception, K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) with Police Chief Taft Yates present. The open meeting will resume at 9:17 p.m. Bob Redger seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0. No action was taken in executive session and the open meeting resumed.
Personnel: Exit
Police Chief Taft Yates announced that he will begin advertising for the soon-to-be vacant position in the Police Department.
ADJOURNMENT
Council member Bob Redger moved and Council member Bret Andries seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.

🎥 City pays for option to purchase land for development; realtors not happy

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Hays real estate broker Doug Williams

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

“It’s not the role that city government should be playing,” believes a longtime Hays real estate broker.

When Doug Williams heard from an acquaintance the city of Hays was considering paying for an option to buy land at 27th Street and Commerce Parkway, he “told them they were crazy, that the city would never get into the real estate speculation business.”

“Turns out, I was wrong.”

Tami Norris, Advanced Real Estate

Williams and Tami Norris of Advanced Real Estate spoke against the idea Thursday night prior to the Hays city commission’s unanimous vote in favor of the option. Several other local realtors were in the audience but did not speak.

The city has been offered an exclusive 18-month option of $50,000 to purchase 93 acres at the northeast corner of 27th Street and Commerce Parkway north of Interstate 70. The land purchase price is $800,000.

Noting a sizable amount of empty retail space in town and the city’s support of infill over new development, Williams told commissioners he was “baffled” why the city would consider such a concept.

“This land is for sale for anybody to purchase. Why would the city buying it make any difference?” asked Williams.

“We’ve heard over and over that land prices are high. And as soon as anybody is interested in it – look at the (former) Ambassador Hotel – the land price triples. These have been consistently quoted to us by several developers as the things that are stopping development,” answered Commissioner Chris Dinkel.

“Sure. We’d like someone else to just go buy this property from the current owner and develop it…The city can get this land and have it developable for a minor fraction of what everyone else is asking for land. If land prices are truly what is keeping the town from developing, then this will develop. If this does not develop in 18 months or nobody’s on the line for it in 18 months, then land prices aren’t the issue and we need to start looking at another direction and another way to stimulate development.”

City commissioner Shaun Musil explains his support of a potential city land purchase for development.

“If land prices really are the issue, this is an excellent and affordable experiment in testing that logic for why we’re not growing,” Dinkel concluded.

Last month commissioners hired Retail Strategies of Birmingham, Alabama, to conduct a retail gap analysis and then recruit new businesses to Hays. “If the city were to have title to this piece of property, it could more easily facilitate the location of future retail in that area,” City Manager Toby Dougherty said recently.

The city would have the choice of extending nearby infrastructure and marketing the property or to work with a developer for the property.

“This is a matter of things falling in place at a certain time,” said Commissioner Sandy Jacobs. “I’ve been involved in retail all of my career and I understand development. This is a well-priced piece of property. There’s some housing area out there that could be developed. It’s another back door into the north Vine business corridor.

The city of Hays will pay $50,000 for an option to purchase 93 acres of land just north of I-70.

“I don’t want the city getting involved in this kind of thing any more than anybody else does. But I think this is an opportunity, not from a political standpoint but from doing what is right for the community of Hays, that we take this chance. And there is risk. We admit that. But it’s a small risk in terms of what the reward could be.”

Williams thinks “there’s a lot better chance to fill the 150,000 square feet of empty building space and some north Vine Street property” than the city’s possible land purchase.

“We built a street (Commerce Parkway) and created an industrial park. We created a non-profit entity that developed land for a scaffolding company, a call center, Glassman Corporation, the Army Reserve Center.

“The city has been in the real estate business for 50-some years,” Schwaller said. “So this isn’t new.”

The option money will be paid from the Commission Capital Reserve Fund, as would the land purchase.

City commission to vote on land purchase option

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The city of Hays has the opportunity to purchase 93 acres of land just north of I-70.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Hays city commissioners will vote Thursday night on an 18-month option to purchase 93 acres north of Interstate 70 near 27th and Commerce Parkway.

Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty has already approved $15,000 in earnest money to be paid to the property owner towards the $50,000 option.

Purchase price of the land is $800,000. The monies would be funded from the Commission Capital Reserve, which had a balance of $6.8 million on April 4.

The property has significant potential for future retail, commercial, and business park development.

Other agenda items include an update on the R9 Ranch and the Water Transfer Act from attorney David Traster, Wichita, and engineer Brian Meier, Burns & McDonnell.

Melissa Romme of Adams, Brown, Beran and Ball will present the city’s 2017 Audit.

The complete April 12 agenda can be seen here.

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. tonight in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

🎥 Hays students ‘Treasure Our Water’

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6th grader Hailey Klein, a second place winner, is congratulated by Hays city commissioners.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Students in Hays are learning to “Treasure Our Water” and can even earn rewards for promoting the concept.

Under requirements of Hays’ Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the city is required to provide educational offerings to the community about the value of improving water quality.

The past four years, a water quality poster contest has been offered by the city in partnership with Kansas State University Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds for school children and young adults in grades pre-K through college.

“Everything in the water in Hays drains into Kanopolis Reservoir, a federal water supply,” explained Stacie Minson, KSU Watersheds Specialist, WaKeeney.

“Several years ago, we looked at how we could get young residents engaged and looking at water, how they can conserve it and how they can protect it. That’s how the water poster contest came into play.”

Payton Stoppel, FHSU, 3rd place

There were 201 entries this year. The artists had to use the “Treasure Our Water” theme as the poster title and explain two important issues about water. Entries were judged on their water conservation/quality message, visual effectiveness, originality, and universal appeal.

“They could focus on water quality, addressing things such as picking up pet waste and knowing how to fertilize lawns correctly. Water conservation could also be used featuring things like water barrels, shutting off the water when you brush your teeth, and knowing when it’s the right time to water the lawn,” Minson told Hays city commissioners last week.

“Our students are picking these things up. They’re eventually going to become the leaders of the city of Hays so it’s important that we engage them.”

Thomas Schleicher, 1st grade, 2nd place

Many of the winners were present at Thursday’s commission work session to be recognized and shake hands with the commissioners.

They were rewarded with Chamber Cheques from the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce, good for spending at more than 500 local business members. Creators of the first-place posters also won a food party for their respective classes.

The monies are funded by the city/KSU Watersheds collaboration.

KSU Watersheds Specialist Stacie Minson shows placemats made from previous water poster designs.

The first year of the contest, the winning posters printed as wall calendars. The winners’ posters in 2016 and 2017 were made into paper placemats and distributed to Hays businesses. The placemats are still available by contacting Minson.

This year’s 201 winning posters will be displayed during the April 27th Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk, with the location yet to be determined. They will also be displayed at the Ellis County Fair July 14-21.

Minson and Holly Dickman, Hays Water Conservation Specialist, gave a big thanks to Hays teachers for incorporating the contest into their curriculums.

Isabelle Jones, 5th grade, 1st place

“This would not be possible if the teachers didn’t share this with their students in school and encourage them to participate,” Minson said.

“Several teachers let Holly and me come into their classrooms and present issues tied to water quality and water conservation so the kids have a better understanding.”

Minson then turned to the crowd behind her in the packed commission chambers. “And for you as parents, hopefully they’re bringing those messages home to all of you as well,” she said with a big smile.

A complete list of the contest winners is available by clicking on 2018 Water Poster Entries Summary.

🎥 Hays enthusiasts rally for return of horseshoe pits

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The proposed 18 sanctioned horseshoe pits at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

“If you build it, they will come.”

Hays resident Jim Mortinger is an avid pitcher – not of baseballs, but of horseshoes.

In front of a standing-room only crowd last Thursday, Mortinger and other horseshoe enthusiasts from across the state urged the Hays City Commission to build an 18-pit horseshoe field at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

They would be the only sanctioned pits in Kansas west of Salina.

Former horseshoe pits near the dike in Frontier Park

A local sanctioned horseshoe pitching league was established in Hays in the 1980s. They played at nine horseshoe pits in Frontier Park. The pits were removed by the city in 2004 during expansion of the Wild West Festival grounds and never relocated. Back then, there were about 150 members of the Hays club, some of whom lived in other communities, according to Mortinger.

This will be the 32nd year Mortinger participates in the Kansas Horseshoe Pitchers Association state tournament which is held in various locations across Kansas over Labor Day weekend. He figures it’s time to bring it home to Hays.

“The two to three day event in September generally draws about 135 pitchers and their families. They usually spend the night. They eat, they shop and spend time sight-seeing.”

Salina hosted the state tourney in 2015, with an estimated $60,000 spent locally, according to city statistics cited by Mortinger. Salina was also the site of the 2016 state tournament.

Clubs in Kansas generally hold local tournaments once a month. Mortinger said he usually goes to Salina five times a month to play, and also drives to Lawrence and Topeka for games.

Mortinger also wants a new Hays Horseshoes League to work with Fort Hays State University and the Hays Recreation Commission to conduct training and lessons for all ages.

“Parents and grandparents can share this great outdoor recreation with their kids, spending quality time together,” Mortinger said. “Horseshoes is a dynamic sport for all ages, genders and physical abilities and has been a part of our heritage for many generations.” He’s pitched with families who have three generations of active players.

Cadets start at age 6 and pitch half the length of the regulation 40-foot court. Mortinger estimated there are currently between 30 and 50 Cadets in the area.

Natoma native Ted Allen

Kansas has a wide reputation in the sport of horseshoes. Mortinger talked about Natoma native Ted Allen, a 10-time world champion horseshoe pitcher who manufactured his own brand of pitching shoes. Allen died in 1990.

The desired location at the sports complex is adjacent to the concession stand. Plans also call for lighting, fencing and two pits designed for handicap accessibility. “We think this would be a wonderful asset to the city of Hays,” said Mortinger.

The project was championed by the 2016 Leadership Hays class. Using research done in 2015 by Mortinger and other local players, the cost estimate for 18 horseshoe pits was $67,463.

He knows prices will have gone up. “Today, we’re probably looking at somewhere between $100,00 and $200,000 for a turnkey job.”

If the city approves the project, Mortinger said the Hays Area Horseshoes Association would be formed to gain official sanction of the pits from state and national governing bodies for state and local tournaments.

“This reminds me of our Frisbee golf course in Frontier Park,” said Mayor James Meier. “I don’t think people know how many people that thing brings to town. I see this as kind of the same thing.”

“It’s also a quality of life issue,” added Commissioner Sandy Jacobs. “I think this is a really cool deal. I had no idea there were so many people pitching horseshoes.”

According to Finance Director Kim Rupp, the Parks Department budget still has more than $1 million in reserve from the sports complex sales tax. “If we look at the Special Parks budget instead, I think we’d have to drop off some of our other projects to make this happen,” said Parks Director Jeff Boyle.

Vice-Mayor Henry Schwaller, who was approached by the local group, wants them to help finance the project.

“Let’s handle this as we did the Hays Dog Park,” Schwaller suggested, “saying we endorse and support it, and the city will maintain it. But we need their help and give them a window time, say 24 months, to raise the money and make it happen.”

Schwaller thinks the city should contribute a “significant amount to the cost, but I want to see what they can do.”

“I think our grant prospects are still out there,” Mortinger replied.

The issue will be added to the agenda of an upcoming regular city commission meeting.

Two record lows in Hays last week

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By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Last week was one for the record books in Hays – the record books at the K-State Agricultural Research Center.

A new overnight low was set Friday night. The temperature fell to 12 degrees, breaking the low of 14 degrees for April 6 set just 9 years ago in 2009.

Tuesday, April 3, was also a record-breaker with a 15 degree overnight low.

In between those two record setting overnight lows was a daytime high of 75 degrees on Thu., April 6.

Friday night’s cold front also brought a little bit of wet snow.

There was 0.05 inches of the white stuff recorded, yielding 0.04 inches of precipitation. Hays has received 9.5 inches of snow so far this season.

The precipitation total to date in 2018 is 1.41 inches.

UPDATE: Legislative Coffee in Hays is postponed

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Legislative Coffee in Hays March 3

UPDATE: Legislators will remain in session Saturday, therefore this event has been postponed, with a date to be determined.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

The second Legislative Coffee hosted by the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce will be held Sat., April 7, at the Fort Hays State University Robbins Center.

Doors open at 8 a.m. with the legislative panel speaking at 8:30 a.m.

Scheduled to participate are Sen. Rick Billinger (R-Goodland), and Reps. Eber Phelps (D-Hays), Ken Rahjes (R-Agra) and Leonard Mastroni (R-Lacrosse).

The public is invited to attend the free event.

Both the House and Senate are expected to adjourn the regular session Friday.

Insurance costs going up for the city of Ellis

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ELLIS –  After several years of stable premiums, the cost for commercial insurance for the city of Ellis is going up.

City council members unanimously approved an EMC insurance contract with the Romme Agency during their Monday meeting. Darrell Romme told the council the increase for 2018 is about 4%. Coverage cost for the city is $112,777.

In other business, Mayor David McDaniel reported the real estate sales agreements for the Water Exploration Project have been drafted and will be presented to the land owners when finalized.

The complete April 2 meeting minutes follow.

 

 

ELLIS CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING 

Minutes

April 2, 2018

CALL TO ORDER

Mayor David McDaniel called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Council members Bret Andries, Holly Aschenbrenner, Susan Eaton, Jolene Niernberger, Dena Patee, and Bob Redger.  Also present were Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman, City Clerk Amy Burton, Police Chief Taft Yates, and City Attorney Olavee Raub.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA

None

PUBLIC PRESENT

Darrell Romme, Annette Ellis, Mark Ellis, Glen Keller, Barbara Perkins, Gary Luea, and Nickole Byers.

CONSENT AGENDA

Council member Bob Redger moved to approve the consent agenda containing the Minutes from the Regular Meeting on March 19, 2018 and Bills Ordinance #2042.  Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded the motion. The Council approved the consent agenda 6-0.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

None

PRESENTATIONS OF AWARDS, PROCLAMATIONS, REQUESTS & PETITIONS (HEARINGS)

None

SPECIAL ORDER

General Government: Insurance

Darrell Romme, Romme Agency, Inc., presented the 2018 City commercial insurance package.  Premiums increased approximately 4%, after remaining stable the last several years.  City staff has proposed several adjustments to the policy, and a premium adjustment will be made once the revisions are processed.  Council member Bob Redger made a motion to approve the EMC Insurance package from Romme Agency, Inc. in the amount of $112,777, and to authorize the Mayor to sign the Terrorism Rejection form.  Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.

General Government: Special Project

Mayor David McDaniel and Police Chief Taft Yates presented information regarding the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program and their upcoming Bowl for Kid’s Sake fundraiser on May 2nd.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

General Government: Violations

Annette Ellis, representative for the property at 210 E. 11th Street, reported that all twenty-five cited compliance violations have been addressed.  Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman will review the property and sign off on the violation notice.

General Government: City Code

Council reviewed the amended ordinance regarding weed definitions.  Subsection (d) has added “or grasses” to the definition of an area that harbors rodents and other menaces.  Council member Dena Patee moved and Council member Holly Aschenbrenner seconded a motion to approve Ordinance No. 1428 amending weed definitions, as presented.  The motion carried 6-0.

General Government: City Code

Council then reviewed an amended ordinance adding verbiage that the Fire Chief has discretion in declaring a fire menace, and replacing the term “city manager” with “mayor” as the official who appoints the public officer charged with enforcement of the ordinance.  Council member Dena Patee moved to adopt Ordinance No. 1429 amending Code Section 8-403.  Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.

General Government: Contract – Land Sale

City Attorney Olavee Raub presented the real estate sales agreement with the Ellis Golf Club for 1.67 acres of land at the golf course.  The Golf Club has already approved and signed the agreement.  Council member Jolene Niernberger moved and Council member Bret Andries seconded a motion to authorize Mayor David McDaniel to sign the Real Estate Sales Agreement with the Ellis Golf Club in the amount of $1,500.  The motion carried 6-0.

Water Exploration: Contracts

Mayor David McDaniel reported that the real estate sales agreements for the Water Exploration Project have been drafted and will be presented to the land owners when finalized.

NEW BUSINESS

Capital Improvement: Special Project

Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented cost estimates for improvements to Washington Street from 3rd Street south to the bridge.  The County plans to recycle the two center lanes of this stretch of Washington Street; therefore, it would be an opportune time to perform the same work on the parking lanes.  The County estimates the City’s cost at $24,007.28 plus approximately $3,000.00 for seal work later this fall.  The County Commissioners have not yet approved this project; therefore, Council decided to table consideration until the County’s plans are finalized.

Capital Improvement: Special Project

Council member Bob Redger inquired of adding sidewalks on Monroe Street from 14th Street – 15th Street.  He was approached by a School Board member who expressed concerns of children walking between the high school and elementary school.  The area is fairly sloped and Council believes drainage could be an issue if the area was leveled and sidewalks were added.  Mr. Scheuerman will review the area and continue discussion at a future Council meeting.

REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS

Public Works

Council reviewed documents illustrating current water well levels and the change in the City-wide daily water use once the large 11th Street water main break was repaired.

The Department of Health and Environment has issued a report that the City’s burn site is currently in compliance with the Kansas Open Burning Regulations.

Recently, the City performed dirt work at Ellis High School to help with drainage.  Mr. Scheuerman estimated the City’s cost of labor, materials, and machine use at $4,477.

Public Works: Acquisition

Mr. Scheuerman reported that Flatlander Dirtworks is in the process of crushing the stockpile of concrete and millings accumulated from the Street Improvement Project.   Council discussed possible locations where the City could stockpile raw materials in the future.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved and Council member Bob Redger seconded a motion to ratify approval of Flatlander Dirtworks crushing the street materials at a cost not to exceed $30,000, with funds to come from the Capital Improvement-Streets, Campground, and General-Cemetery funds.  The motion carried 6-0.

Police

Police Chief Taft Yates presented the Monthly Activity Report for March and the April staff calendar.  There will be an active shooter presentation at the Good Samaritan Center on April 18th.  Chief Yates invited governing body members to attend the DARE graduation in May.

City Clerk

City Clerk Amy Burton reviewed the minutes from the recent Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

General Government: Accounting

The School District has requested reimbursement for the City’s usage on their outlet at the Water Tower.  The City apparently has plugged in a space heater into the District’s outlet during the winter months.  The District is requesting reimbursement in the amount of $628.94, which encompasses the City’s usage from January 2014 – February 2018.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner stated the statute of limitations for utility billing errors is 24 months.  Therefore, Council member Dena Patee moved and Holly Aschenbrenner seconded a motion to approve reimbursement to USD 388 in the amount of $198.28, which represents the last 24 months of usage.  City Attorney Olavee Raub will prepare a letter explaining the calculation of the reimbursement.  The motion carried 6-0.

Attorney

City Attorney Olavee Raub reported she is currently working with the Fireman’s Relief Association to update their bylaws.

Mayor Update and Announcements

Council member Holly Aschenbrenner updated Council on the Community Block Party to be held June 9th.

EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

Mayor David McDaniel asked for a motion to recess into executive session at the request of City Clerk Amy Burton.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved for City Council to recess into executive session for 10-minutes to discuss staff in the City Clerk’s office pursuant to the non-elected personnel matter exception, K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) with City Clerk Amy Burton present.  The open meeting will resume at 8:56 p.m.  Council member Bob Redger seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.  No action was taken in executive session and the open meeting resumed.

ADJOURNMENT

Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved and Council member Bret Andries seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting.  The motion carried 6-0.  The meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.

 

 

🎥 City commission supports option to buy land near I-70

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The city of Hays has been offered an option to buy 93 acres of land at 27th and Commerce Parkway north of I-70.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Hays city commissioners are supporting an option for the city to purchase a 91-acre tract of property near Interstate 70.

The land is located in the northeast corner of the 27th Street and Commerce Parkway intersection at the east I-70 Exit 161. Total cost of the property is $800,000.

The exclusive irrevocable 18-month option cost is $50,000 and has been secured by a $15,000 payment to the land owner, City Manager Toby Dougherty told commissioners Thursday night. The remaining $35,000 would be prorated over the 18 months, with the option money paid from the Commission Capital Reserve fund.

“I think a lot of conversation needs to be had around it,” said Commissioner Sandy Jacobs, “but from my perspective it’s all pretty positive. There’s some really good possibilities, not only for that property, but enhance all the work we’ve done and the money we spent on Commerce Parkway.”

Vice-Mayor Henry Schwaller pointed out “the connection of Commerce Parkway to Vine Street.” It also helps the city “develop this land parcel and the work we’re doing on 41st Street, bringing these two together,” Schwaller added.

“We’d really like to see more growth in Hays, and not just in retail,” Schwaller continued. “We know because we are landlocked to the west and to the south, that the best path for growth is both north and east.”

Schwaller called the land parcel “affordable” and noted the city already has some infrastructure to Commerce Parkway on the south side of the interchange. “I’m very optimistic this is an excellent ace for us to hold and use in case we have something come back from Retail Strategies and we can move very quickly.”

Last month city commissioners approved a year-to-year contract with Retail Strategies of Birmingham, Alabama, to conduct a retail gap analysis and then recruit new businesses.

The city would have the choice of extending infrastructure and marketing the property, or to work with a developer for the property.

“The timing is very good with Retail Strategies,” agreed Jacobs. She also talked about the city of Salina with four exits off I-35, and “once you’re off you’re moving through the city. I don’t see why that can’t happen in our community as well.”

The recent property transaction further south on Canterbury Drive and the request to change its zoning from Agriculture to Light Industrial also bodes well, according to Schwaller. “Someone would not buy that piece of property and make that commitment unless they intended to build.”

“This option gives us time to see what happens there with the private development and could be a catalyst for that area. I’m very excited about it,” Schwaller said.

Commissioner Shaun Musil said the possibility to develop another I-70 exit in Hays “could be the greatest start to the future for us.” He said the residents he’s talked to “were extremely excited about what could happen.”

Commissioners will vote on the land purchase option at their April 12 regular meeting.

Commissioner Chris Dinkel was absent from Thursday’s work session.

Wheels up Monday for start of Hays/Chicago air flights

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Flights between Hays and Chicago start April 9.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Starting Monday, travelers will be able to fly to Chicago from the Hays Regional Airport without changing planes.

Until now,  passengers have had to fly west to Denver International Airport, where they then had to board another plane to Chicago or other any other destination.

The eastbound flight has long been requested, especially by the local business community.

The additional flight is part of a new SkyWest contract at the Salina Regional Airport, according to Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty.

“Beginning April 9 also, we will be sharing, for lack of a better term, with Salina the Denver flights and the Chicago flight,” Dougherty said. “There’s more of an opportunity that plane could be full, which is a good thing. But that means you need to book early.”

The biggest advantage for passengers is “it’s quicker and more convenient,” said Assistant City Manager Jacob Wood. “There’ll be quick layovers in Salina but you won’t have to get off the plane.” Luggage will also remain on the airplane.

Wood said bookings on the 50-seat jets are filling rapidly with the addition of passengers boarding in Salina. “I’ve flown lots of times when there were just eight or so people on board. You can expect more people on the plane,” he added.

Flights can be booked online at www.united.com. The Chicago flight schedule is available at flyhays.com, along with the Denver schedule.

Fly Hays Committee on Jan. 27, 2012.

The city is hoping the new flight to Chicago will help increase boardings enough in 2018 to surpass 10,000. The last year that happened was 2011, when 10,912 passengers flew out of the Hays Regional Airport.

Passenger boardings in 2017 “just missed” the 10,000 mark, which would have made the city eligible for $1 million in airport funding from the Federal Aviation Administration. Otherwise, the city receives just $150,000 from the FAA annually.

According to a study by Volaire Aviation Consulting, the top three destinations from the Hays Regional Airport currently are Las Vegas, Orlando and Phoenix.

New record low set in Hays

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By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

No wonder you piled on that extra blanket Tuesday night.

The daytime high temperature was 47 degrees according to official statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center. It felt colder, as the north wind blew a steady 30 to 35 mph with a peak gust of 48 mph recorded at the Hays Regional Airport just before 1 p.m.

The overnight low fell all the way to 15 degrees and set a new record.

The previous low temperature for April 3 in Hays was 18 degrees back in 1945.

🎥 April activities in Hays

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By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

It’s a busy spring in Hays with April activities added nearly every day to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Community Calendar.

CVB Director Melissa Dixon has some of the highlights:

For an updated list of events in Hays, check the CVB website at www.visithays.com.

🎥 City may purchase land for retail development

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By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

The city of Hays has been offered an exclusive 18-month option to purchase property near 27th and Commerce Parkway for $800,000.

The area is conducive for retail, commercial and business park use, according to City Manager Toby Dougherty. If the city commission approves the purchase, Dougherty said the specific location will then be identified.

“Timing is just a matter of the property became available,” Dougherty said.

“But also the city commission authorized a contract with a regional consultant and recruiter at the last regular meeting. If the city were to have title to a piece of property, it could more easily facilitate the location of future retail in the area.”

At the March 22 meeting, city commissioners approved a year-to-year contract with Retail Strategies of Birmingham, Alabama.

The city would have the choice of extending nearby infrastructure and marketing the property or to work with a developer for the property.

The option money would be paid from the Commission Capital Reserve Fund.

Purchase of the land is to be discussed at Thursday’s city commission meeting. The complete agenda is available here.

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