Thursday, March 29, 2012

04/02/2012-City Commission Meeting Agenda

MONDAY

APRIL 02, 2012

PRATT CITY COMMISSION – REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING

COMMISSION ROOM – 5:00 P.M.

1. CALL TO ORDER (Remind audience that meeting is being recorded and/or taped.)

2. ROLL CALL

3. INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4. MINUTES – March 19, 2012 Recessed City Commission meeting
March 19, 2012 Regular City Commission meeting

5. OPEN AGENDA – 1 (City Matters Only) (3 Minute Time Limit)

6. BUSINESS:

6.1 Consideration and Approval for the Use & Closure of 6th Street Park from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for Second Annual Pratt City Fire Department Car Show on Saturday, May 26th (**This will be an annual event each year on the Saturday before Memorial Day**) – Captain Todd Hoffman, Pratt City Fire Department

6.2 Consideration and Approval of the Purchase of a Self-Loading Wire Trailer Using Budgeted Capital Equipment Reserve Funds – Jamie Huber, Distribution Superintendent

6.3 Consideration and Approval of Resolution 040212 Setting a Hearing Date on Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 305 N. Mound – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney; Brad Blankenship, Building Inspector

6.4 Consideration and Approval of Temporary Electric Service Agreement – Kelly Hemphill, Director of Electric Utilities

7. OPEN AGENDA – 2 (City Matters Only) (3 Minute Time Limit)

8. REPORTS

8.1 City Manager
8.2 City Attorney
8.3 Department Heads
8.4 Mayor
8.5 City Commission

9. ADJOURN

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

03/05/12-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY

MARCH 05, 2012

The Governing Body of the City of Pratt met in Regular Session in the Commission Room located in City Hall.

PRESENT: Jeff Taylor Mayor
Bill Hlavachick Commissioner
Victor Graf Commissioner
Gary Skaggs Commissioner
Karen Detwiler Commissioner

ALSO PRESENT: Dave Howard City Manager
LuAnn Kramer City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum City Attorney
Diana Garten Finance Director
Russell Rambat Public Works Director
Brad Blankenship Building Inspector
Kelly Hemphill Dir. of Electric Utilities


CALL TO ORDER:

The Mayor called the Regular session to order. Mayor Taylor instructed the Clerk to note that all Commissioners were present.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

Mayor Taylor led the staff and audience in an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance.

MINUTES:

A motion by Commissioner Hlavachick to approve the minutes of the February 20, 2012 regular Commission meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and unanimously approved.

OPEN AGENDA – 1:

• Thank you from Mr. Matei:

Mr. Luca Matei, owner of Country Club Apartment, thanked City Manager Dave Howard and Public Works Director Russell Rambat for their help when he was having sewer problems at the apartment complex. Mr. Matei stated that he was amazed how a few honest people could keep the City afloat and they were in a position to help and do something good.

Mr. Matei commented that he was in a position where people were trying to make a buck and he could not prove that he was framed and accused of something that he did not do.

BUSINESS:

DISCUSSION ON ‘NO OUTLET’ SIGNAGE CONCERNING THE CUL-DE-SAC AT THE END OF SOUTH NINNESCAH:

Mr. Ted Neuburger commented to the Commission that there was a problem at the end of South Ninnescah with the cul-de-sac that should have no outlet, but there was a lot of traffic that made it an outlet to get to Ampride. Mr. Neuburger explained that he had purchased property in that area and had cleaned up the shop, painted and almost rebuilt the house. Mayor Taylor questioned if he was speaking of the trucks from Ampride. Mr. Neuburger stated that Ampride does have a problem with trucks, but he understands that they cannot get out if they come from the other direction. Mr. Neuburger commented that they had been doing that for years and he felt that driving over the curb was breaking the law.

Mr. Neuburger stated that he would agree to let the trucks go through, but wanted the other traffic shut down. Mr. Neuburger explained that school buses, City pick-ups and heavy equipment use it like a through street. Mr. Neuburger added that there were small children in the corner house and he worried for their safety as well as anyone that was trying to back out of a driveway. Commissioner Skaggs questioned what the history of the cul-de-sac was. City Manager Dave Howard commented that that area was zoned industrial, so it was the houses that were out of place. Mr. Howard explained that Ampride owns the property along the cul-de-sac and they could allow anyone they want to have access to their property. Mr. Howard stated that Ampride would need to let us know if they do not want anyone accessing their property from the cul-de-sac. Mr. Howard agreed that they should not be jumping over the curb. Commissioner Skaggs questioned doing a curb cut. Mr. Howard stated that, if they break the curb, we would put in a driveway, but they were not asking us to do that.

Commissioner Skaggs repeated to Mr. Neuburger that Ampride had to make the request through the City to have barricades put up or a curb cut done. Mr. Neuburger stated that the issue was that the City owns the curb. Mr. Howard explained that we would cut the curb if that was what the Commission wanted, but it would cost us even though Ampride had not been complaining. Mr. Neuburger questioned what the problem was then. Mr. Howard stated that it was our curb, but Ampride does not have an issue with the traffic. Mr. Neuburger commented that Ampride can jump the curb, but it was the others that should not be allowed to. Mr. Howard explained that Ampride owns the property behind the cul-de-sac and no one was violating the law if they allow it. Commissioner Skaggs questioned who maintains the property if we cut the curb. Mr. Howard repeated that we do not own the property and once someone gets on their property, it was their issue to control and they had never complained to us.

Mr. Howard commented that, it there was a curb cut, there would be more traffic. Mr. Howard added that Mr. Neuburger had bought residential property in an industrial zoned area. Mr. Neuburger stated that this made no sense. Mr. Howard suggested pulling the sign. Mr. Neuburger stated that they should let the trucks go through, but not the other traffic. Mayor Taylor commented that that would be hard to regulate. Mr. Howard stated that Ampride had not complained that somebody was on their property and they were not violating any issues with the City. Mr. Neuburger stated that he was complaining. Mr. Howard repeated that Ampride had a right to let anyone they want access their property from a public road. Mr. Howard added that Ampride could put up a fence if they did not want anyone accessing their property. Mr. Neuburger commented that the City could stop it if they wanted to and he felt that Mr. Howard did not want to by the way he was talking. Mr. Neuburger added that he would like to see a compromise. Mr. Howard stated that it would take Ampride being willing to compromise and stop allowing traffic to access their property from the street.

Mr. Neuburger stated that the sign still says ‘No Outlet’. After little more discussion, Mr. Neuburger stated that, if a truck bangs into him, there would be a law suit if they had jumped the curb. Commissioner Skaggs suggested that Mr. Neuburger talk to Ampride’s management. Mr. Neuburger explained that he had talked to them when he first purchased the property, but they did not have much to say one way or the other. Commissioner Skaggs then suggested that he go to the owner or to the top. Mr. Neuburger stated that he would be glad to talk to them, but there were still no regulations or limitations. Mr. Howard commented that the City could control traffic violations and he would get our cooperation with that, but Ampride was the only one that could stop this.

• Complaint – 800 block of S. Ninnescah:

Mr. Neuburger stated that there was a house in the 800 block of South Ninnescah Street that had no windows and he felt that there needed to be something done with it. City Inspector Brad Blankenship stated that that was the first complaint on that property, but he would send them a letter to have it cleaned up and the windows boarded up.

UPDATE ON BLYTHE FAMILY FITNESS:

Mr. Zach Deeds and Ms. Kristina Kaufman addressed the Commission to express their appreciation for their support of Blythe Family Fitness. Mr. Deeds commented that their membership was up about 30% since last year and they had had three large volleyball tournaments as well as hosting many basketball games. Mr. Deeds stated that they had mentioned that they wanted to replicate the success of the Sports Complex and keep people coming to town and they felt that they were doing that with a lot of weekend activities. Mr. Deeds explained that they were forming leagues for racket ball, tennis, basketball, putting on tennis clinics, speed and agility classes and Zumba.

Ms. Kaufman commented that she had talked to someone from Derby who had been to Pratt and thought that we had a very nice facility. Ms. Kaufman added that Pratt had been so supportive of the facility. Commissioner Skaggs questioned how much of their business was based on tournaments. Ms. Kaufman stated that it was too early to tell, but they had definitely brought people in. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if she thought twenty percent was from tournaments. Ms. Kaufman answered that it was probably not twenty percent, but they also need to keep their regular members happy. City Manager Howard questioned how many members they currently had. Ms. Kaufman stated that she thought it was around 1,500 families.

Mr. Deeds commented that they not only want to provide tournaments, but they wanted to keep doing things that bring people in and that reflect through Travel and Tourism money. Mayor Taylor commented that it was important for Travel and Tourism money to be coming in. Mr. Howard commented that it was as important to keep people in town as it was in bringing people to town.

REVISIT FUTURE SIDEWALK PLANS FOR CITY OF PRATT:

Public Works Director Russell Rambat commented that he had a layout of the future sidewalk project for the City, but it was in no way complete. Mr. Rambat stated that he had put together a project that showed what already existed and what could be new. Mr. Rambat commented that Recreation Director Bruce Pinkall was working with Wildlife and Parks on an area around the Sports Complex and pointed that area out on a power point. Mr. Rambat informed the Commission that KDOT did not have any funding available at this time, but could have something in the future.

Mr. Rambat suggested that they start the project in front of the gazebos on Sixth Street and go east around Howard or Watson Streets and go east to Country Club Road and he would be using a portion of funds from his curb and gutter project. Mayor Taylor stated that he would rather spend that money on the curb and gutter project. Mayor Taylor added that the City project was a great deal and he felt that there was still a lot that needed to be done with the curb and gutter project. Mayor Taylor repeated that he would rather not take away from that project. Mayor Taylor questioned when the Wildlife and Parks funds would become available. Mr. Howard stated that he was not sure. Mr. Howard explained that they had recommended using curb and gutter project funds, but they could wait until next year when they could possibly have access to other funds.

Mayor Taylor commented that he had been walking down First Street to Doug Reh Chevrolet and he noticed the path that had been worn by foot traffic walking along the highway. Mayor Taylor added that it was more important to have sidewalk there for people who are trying to get to work. An audience member stated that he agreed with Mayor Taylor and that he rides his bike from Hillside Street to Wal-Mart and he would appreciate a sidewalk. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there would be a conflict with bikers and pedestrians. Mr. Howard stated that KDOT does not view a sidewalk as a bike/pedestrian path, but they have an 8’ or 10’ minimum width requirement. Commissioner Hlavachick commented that he had promoted a bike path for a lot of years and he wanted Mr. Rambat to keep in mind the wider paths for that reason. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we could satisfy them with half the width if we do the rest later. Mr. Howard stated that he doubted that we could, but he was not sure. Mr. Rambat stated that if we put sidewalks along the KDOT right-of-way, we might get away with 6’ sidewalks, but we had to meet ADA requirements if we fund it.

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the EBH report had been around $900,000. Mr. Howard stated that it was closer to a million dollars. Mr. Rambat explained that you have to take into consideration the difficulties on First Street such as street lighting, where properties had been built in that area, shrubs, phone boxes and utilities. Mr. Howard commented that we would want to do it to KDOT’s widths if we fund it so that it could be a bike trail as much as a walking trail. Commissioner Skaggs suggested that this be discussed in the next budget session. Mr. Howard stated that we would have to match any funding anyway, so it would be better to wait until the budget session. Mr. Howard added that we could get an application into KDOT and see what happens. Mr. Howard explained that we would be better off accessing any grant money that was available.

OPEN AGENDA – 2:

• Week-end liquor sells:

Mr. Luca Matei addressed the Commission again and stated that he was from Romania and had landed in California. Mr. Matei stated that he had worked with all kinds of people and he liked to travel. Mayor Taylor informed Mr. Matei that this was for City matters only. Mr. Matei continued stating that he came to America for a better life and he enjoyed life, good meals, music and travel. Mayor Taylor again asked Mr. Matei how this pertained to City matters. Mr. Matei stated that Medicine Lodge had made it legal to sell on weekends and he proposed to the Commission that Pratt do the same.

REPORTS:

City Manager:

• Sandy Creek Addition:

City Manager Howard commented that the Planning and Zoning Commission had a hearing for the Sandy Creek Addition and there had been no objections. Mr. Howard stated that the final plat and milar would come before the Commission for their approval. Mr. Howard added that they would be moving forward with the cost estimates for the first phase and this had been put on the back burner due to the development out east. Commissioner Skaggs questioned why it would come back to them if there had not been any adjustments. Mr. Howard explained that they had approved a preliminary plat and this would be the final plat.

• East Addition:

Mr. Howard commented that Mr. Withers was continuing with his project on the east side of town. Mr. Howard added that Water Superintendent Kelvin Clay would be starting on that line soon.

• KMEA Power Supply Committee:

Mr. Howard commented that he had attended a KMEA executive board meeting and, with the regulation that could affect the marketing agreement and transmission issues, they would like to form a Power Supply Committee. Mr. Howard stated that they had asked that he be on it since it would apply to what was going to be changing in the next several years. Mr. Howard explained that it would take a couple of days a month, but he asked for the Commission’s approval. Mr. Howard added that travel would be at the expense of KMEA. Commissioner Hlavachick commented that KMEA was a big player and the Commission would be well advised to put Mr. Howard on that committee. Mr. Howard commented that there would be a lot of changes in the future. Commissioner Hlavachick stated that we need to be out front.

Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to put City Manager Howard on the KMEA Power Supply Committee. Mayor Taylor questioned if a term had been set. Mr. Howard stated that they had not given one to the appointments. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Graf and carried unanimously.

City Attorney:

• Executive Session:

City Attorney Van Blaricum requested an executive session to discuss attorney/client privilege to last thirty minutes. Mr. Van Blaricum added that this could be held at the end of the meeting.

Public Works:

• KDOT Award:

Public Works Director Rambat informed the Commission that the City had received the KCA/KDOT Excellence in Partnering Award for the Main Street project.

• Spring/Summer projects:

Mr. Rambat commented that he would be out in the next few weeks measuring for the curbs, sidewalks and ADA ramps project.

Mr. Rambat added that they would be replacing the main pump at the pool and it would work better to do it now while there was still time before it opens. Mr. Rambat explained that that would take a week or two depending on the weather.

• WWTP project:

Mr. Rambat stated that he would be meeting with EBH & Associates at the wastewater treatment plant to proceed with their upgrade. Mr. Rambat commented that the project could start by the end of the summer or late fall, which would help with the distribution of solids and having to find less fields for disposal.

Inspections:

• House on Mound:

Building Inspector Blankenship informed the Commission that the burnt house on Mound Street would be torn down. Mr. Blankenship commented that the owners did not have any financing and, the neighbor that we had tried to get to take it, had not worked out. Mr. Blankenship added that the costs for removal would be accessed to the property.

Electric Department:

• Breakers in Substation One:

Director of Electric Utilities Hemphill commented that it would be a slow process to replace the breakers in substation one and they would be doing that in the off peak months.

• Tap changer job:

Mr. Hemphill stated that we would be operating the five mega watt and fourteen mega watt generators for fourteen days while doing the tap changer project. Mr. Hemphill explained that the company would be here on April 2nd to drain it, take the tap changer off and climb inside of it to work on it. Mr. Hemphill added that they usually do this in their factory, so it would be unique doing it in the field, but there were no concerns that anything would go wrong. Mr. Hemphill commented that they would start the generator on March 25th to do a test on it for one hour and bring it back to the five mega watt baseload on April 1st. Mr. Hemphill stated that the City load would be on it until April 17th.

Recreation Department:

• American Legion:

Recreation Director Pinkall stated that Pratt had been selected to host an American Legion single A state tournament.

• Blythe Family Fitness:

Mr. Pinkall stated that he had worked with the Blythe Family Fitness on their programs and activities and had put information in our newsletter. Mr. Pinkall stated that Mr. Rambat had also assisted them by making brackets.

Power Plant:

• Security System:

Power Plant Superintendent Smith commented that they had been working on the security system at the Power Plant. Mr. Smith stated that there would be motion detectors and cameras since the cost of copper had come up as had the theft of copper.

Mayor:

• City/County Meeting:

Mayor Taylor mentioned that the City/County joint meeting had been set for April 16th.

Commission:

• Highway signage:

Commissioner Detwiler thanked Mr. Rambat for the additional signage on Highway 54.

Executive Session:

Mayor Taylor made a motion to go into executive session for attorney/client privilege to last thirty minutes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

Mayor Taylor made a motion to return from executive session and to recess until March 19th at 11:00 a.m. to meet with the County Commission at the Court House to discuss the Covenant Housing tax issue. The motion was properly seconded and carried unanimously.

RECESS:

Upon proper motion, the meeting was recessed until March 19th at 11:00 a.m. to meet with the County Commission at the Court House.


________________________________
JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor





(SEAL)

ATTEST:

______________________________________
LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk

Friday, March 16, 2012

03/19/2012-City Commission Meeting Agenda

MONDAY

MARCH 19, 2012

PRATT CITY COMMISSION – REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING

COMMISSION ROOM – 5:00 P.M.

1. CALL TO ORDER (Remind audience that meeting is being recorded and/or taped.)

2. ROLL CALL

3. INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4. MINUTES – March 05, 2012 Regular City Commission meeting

5. OPEN AGENDA – 1 (City Matters Only) (3 Minute Time Limit)

6. BUSINESS:

6.1 Consideration and Approval of Ordinance 1201 Annexing Property into the City – Dave Howard, City Manager (ORDINANCE 1201-Wither’s property)

6.2 Continued Discussion on Christmas Lights for Sixth Street Park – Deb Goyen; Mayor, Commission and Staff

6.3 Consideration and Approval of Lease Agreement for Use of Community Center with Senior Citizen’s Organization – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

6.4 Consideration and Approval of Appointment to Pratt Airport Authority Board – Dave Howard, City Manager (Three Year Term)

6.5 Consideration and Approval of Re-appointment to Pratt Building Board – Brad Blankenship, Building Inspector (Three Year Term)

6.6 Consideration and Approval of Bid for New Police Vehicle – Gary Myers, Police Chief

7. OPEN AGENDA – 2 (City Matters Only) (3 Minute Time Limit)

8. REPORTS

8.1 City Manager
8.2 City Attorney
8.3 Department Heads
8.4 Mayor
8.5 City Commission

10. ADJOURN

Monday, March 5, 2012

02/20/12-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY

FEBRUARY 20, 2012

The Governing Body of the City of Pratt met in Regular Session in the Commission Room located in City Hall.

PRESENT: Jeff Taylor Mayor
Bill Hlavachick Commissioner
Victor Graf Commissioner
Gary Skaggs Commissioner
Karen Detwiler Commissioner

ALSO PRESENT: Dave Howard City Manager
LuAnn Kramer City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum City Attorney
Diana Garten Finance Director
Gary Myers Police Chief
Russell Rambat Public Works Director
Brad Blankenship Building Inspector
Kelly Hemphill Dir. of Electric Utilities


CALL TO ORDER:

The Mayor called the Regular session to order. Mayor Taylor instructed the Clerk to note that all Commissioners were present.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

Mayor Taylor led the staff and audience in an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance.

MINUTES:

A motion by Commissioner Hlavachick to approve the minutes of the February 06, 2012 regular Commission meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Graf. Commissioner Graf noted one change and the minutes were unanimously approved with changes noted.

OPEN AGENDA – 1:

• Pratt Care Center-Facelift:

Ms. Janelle Burr, Pratt Care Center Administrator, introduced herself and informed the Commission that they had bought out Lakewood Senior Living. Ms. Burr stated that she had been here awhile and had been working on facelifts and remodeling at the Pratt Care Center. Ms. Burr added that bids were being taken locally because they were part of the Pratt community. Ms. Burr stated that they have a budget of $175,000 for the remodel. Ms. Burr extended an invitation for everyone to come out and visit their facility.

• Oil Boom:

Chamber Director Jan Scarbrough informed the Commission that she had attended a meeting in Kiowa on February 3rd to discuss the oil boom. Ms. Scarbrough stated that there were nine counties represented and seventy-three people in attendance. Ms. Scarbrough explained that they would like to form a steering committee to protect us from what had happened in the Dakota’s. Ms. Scarbrough stated that Mr. Paul Olsen was interested in representing Pratt on the committee and the ED Board was in favor of Mr. Olsen. Ms. Scarbrough commented that we need ears present on the committee even if they were not active.

Ms. Scarbrough stated that she did not feel that this needed any action, but she wanted them to be informed. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if any of the City staff had attended. City Manager Howard stated that they had not and the ED Board was more involved with regional things. Mayor Taylor asked if there would be a County rep. Ms. Scarbrough stated that there did not have to be, but she would be talking with them soon. Mayor Taylor stated that Mr. Olsen had tenure on the ED Board and had dealt with oil people on the banking side, so he would be a good one to have on that committee.

CONTINUED DISCUSSION ON THE PURCHASE OF THE REPLACEMENT FOR ENGINE 6:

Fire Chief David Kramer stated that he appreciated the opportunity to come and try to resolve the issue with replacing the 1978 Seagraves truck. Chief Kramer commented that there was a website mentioned in his memo that included walk around videos, one with doors closed and the other with all doors open. Chief Kramer explained that the truck had 6,899 hours and 119,000 miles on it and that the hours were low for a truck with that many miles. Chief Kramer stated that he had the history on the maintenance that had been forwarded to him earlier. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if this was a diesel. Chief Kramer answered that it was a heavy diesel with a 430 horse engine. Commissioner Skaggs commented that that many miles was not that uncommon on a diesel. Chief Kramer explained that the 1997 E-One pumper had some tremendous advantages, such as a hydraulic ladder rack that allows for more compartments on the side. Chief Kramer added that the ladder rack holds a 24’ extension ladder, 14’ roof ladder and an attic ladder.

Chief Kramer stated that he had checked on the cost to go look at it and it was around $400 to $420, but he did not have the opportunity to go due to obligations through his job. Chief Kramer added that, that obligation had been completed, so he would be glad to do that if the Commission or Mr. Howard wanted him to. Commissioner Skaggs questioned what the warranty was that they were offering. Chief Kramer stated that it was a 90 day warranty, but he did not have the specifics. Commissioner Detwiler commented that she felt that we were rushing into this and that they had looked at very few trucks at this time. Commissioner Detwiler added that she did not understand the hurry since the truck had responded to several fires in the last few weeks.

Commissioner Detwiler stated that she would like to ask the City Manager how to proceed with this. Mr. Howard stated that he did not like to buy used equipment, especially sight unseen. Mr. Howard added that 120,000 was not a lot of miles on a diesel. Mr. Howard commented that he understood Chief Kramer’s position, in that he could not be running to every truck that there was to look at. Mr. Howard stated that some people would think we were crazy to spend $50,000 on a used piece of equipment that we had not looked at. Mr. Howard stated that, what he would do with the whole thing, would be to find a way to keep the Seagraves working until the right piece of equipment was found or money had been budgeted. Mr. Howard added that $50,000 on those websites does not get you much and the 1997 could have the same issues not many years down the road and the ‘newer’ truck was now eleven years old.

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if City staff should get involved and pursue a bid process since the Chief and Assistant Chief were voluntary and employed elsewhere. Commissioner Skaggs commented that he does not know what is out there and questioned whether City staff would have the time either. Mr. Howard stated that he would not mind doing that, but he had spent the last two weeks looking at sites and it was limited on what you were going to get for what we were going to spend. Mr. Howard added that you would have to be very cautious doing it because of the age.

Mr. Howard commented that he had visited with County Counselor Bob Schmisseur and Mr. Schmisseur had approached him about revising our intergovernmental agreement between the fire departments. Mr. Howard stated that, if we could make the Seagraves work until we find the right piece of equipment or budget for a new vehicle, we would be far better off. Mayor Taylor commented that the intergovernmental agreement had come up in a conversation he had had with Mark McManaman. Mayor Taylor explained that they had found out that, if there was another fire department within five miles of your department, you could use both sets of equipment for the ISO rating. Mayor Taylor questioned Mr. McManaman on whether or not we could use their equipment during a fire since we were only a mile and a half apart. Mr. McManaman stated that we could and showed him an agreement that was an emergency agreement with several counties and was more for helping in a tornado or disaster situation. Mayor Taylor commented that he was talking about an immediate thing and not after a disaster, so that was why Mr. Schmisseur was going to get with City Attorney Van Blaricum to see what we could do to protect our ISO rating. Mr. Howard stated that he had suggested that we put it on a City/County joint meeting.

Mr. Howard stated that, depending on how the oil and gas thing develops, we already have a lot of hazmat and flammable stuff in town and we could have more of that. Mr. Howard commented that we do have foam abilities on the truck and that should be considered in the purchase of a truck if the oil boom happens. Mayor Taylor stated that, since we are covered on the ISO rating, he feels that we are in no hurry, but we do not want to drag it on forever. Mr. Howard explained that he was talking about a stop gap and not a permanent solution, but something better than this. Mr. Howard stated that he was afraid of buying it even if we went and looked at it. Mayor Taylor stated that he liked Commissioner Skaggs idea of City staff working on this, since Chief Kramer and Asst. Chief Stevens were not able to get away.

Commissioner Skaggs commented that they needed to come to an agreement on whether to buy a used piece of equipment that Mr. Howard had concerns about. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the price of a new one was about $100,000. Chief Kramer stated that a new one, like Engine 1, would cost around $350,000 and that does come with NFPA required equipment. Mayor Taylor questioned if the cost of one like Engine 6 would be around $200,000. Chief Kramer stated that Engine 6 was basically the same style as Engine 1 in its day. Mayor Taylor asked if the one they had been looking at was smaller than Engine 1. Chief Kramer stated that it was actually 3’ shorter, but it has a side control for the pump where Engine 1 has a top mount.

Chief Kramer commented that he did not have a problem with someone else going to look at the truck, but he added that he would prefer it to be someone that had some understanding of the operation. Commissioner Skaggs commented that he did not think the staff would go look at it, but they could bring in a larger offering to choose from by following the specification the department would ask for. Chief Kramer explained that, as Mr. Howard had stated, when you buy used you do not know what you are getting unless you see it in operation. Mr. Howard stated that his thoughts were that we already have a used piece of equipment. Mayor Taylor asked how many years a department keeps a vehicle. Chief Kramer stated that this department tries to cycle them every fifteen years and others try to cycle at the twenty year mark. Mayor Taylor questioned if there were many 2008 and 2009’s. Chief Kramer answered that there were a lot of them out there, but they were in the $200,000 price range. Chief Kramer added that, with the economy situation, the cost of used trucks was incredible.

The video of the truck was brought up on the screen for everyone to view. While watching the video, Mayor Taylor questioned if this was the one that had been repainted. Chief Kramer stated that was correct, because it had been yellow. Commissioner Hlavachick questioned if our logo was included. Chief Kramer answered that it was and the NFPA stripping was something they were required to do. Commissioner Hlavachick asked if the $50,000 included shipping. Chief Kramer stated that it did. Mr. Howard questioned if the tires were in good shape. Chief Kramer stated that they had replaced the tires in 2009 when it had 112,000 miles. Commissioner Hlavachick asked Chief Kramer to explain the pump again. Chief Kramer explained that it had a 1,500 gpm pump that was a Hale brand. Commissioner Hlavachick questioned if it had been refurbished. Chief Kramer stated that they had done an overhaul on the top section of the pump at the cost of approximately $8,210 in 2007. Chief Kramer commented that he was told that they had a very rigid maintenance schedule that they go through and he was sure they would not spend $8,000 if they did not have to. Chief Kramer added that the truck had come from Lisle Woodridge, Illinois, but had been bought by the dealer in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Commissioner Detwiler commented that the problem with a new paint job was that they could put a lot of body putty on and it looks good, but may show up before long.

Commissioner Skaggs commented that the dilemmas were that we need a new truck and how much we could justify paying for it. Commissioner Skaggs added that, if $50,000 was not going to get a good truck, we need to decide whether to spend more or do without. Commissioner Detwiler stated that Mr. Howard had said to get the 1978 to work as long as it would work and it had been reporting to fires. Mr. Howard commented that he had visited with Mr. Mitch Withers and he would like to look at the truck. Commissioner Detwiler questioned if they needed to rescind the original motion. Mayor Taylor stated that they have to approve anything anyway. Mr. Howard stated that he wanted to be clear that this was not a permanent solution. Commissioner Detwiler commented that something else could come along in the next year or two. Commissioner Graf questioned if the truck held water now. Chief Kramer stated that they put water in it, but it runs out. Commissioner Skaggs commented that having Mr. Withers look at it was on the same line as what Commissioner Graf had suggested. Commissioner Graf stated that he wanted everybody to get a shot at bidding and get a firm figure. Commissioner Graf added that it may not be a $40,000 repair and we could buy in three or four years and put money back for something newer.

Commissioner Detwiler made a motion to put the City Manager in charge of the information gathering process either to have the 1978 repaired or determine if it needs to be replaced and include the Fire Chief. Mr. Howard commented that he just wanted Mr. Withers to take a look at it and it may be for not. Chief Kramer stated that he wanted to be up front with the Commission and he went by what their vendors told them. Chief Kramer added that he had one tell them that they were not interested in repairing it and Weis Fire said they would be glad to do it. Mr. Howard commented that having Mr. Withers look at the truck would be a short term fix and he would like to see the fire department get the best equipment they can get. Mr. Howard added that it may take six months or more to get something better. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the offers would get much larger if they doubled the amount from $50,000 to $100,000. Chief Kramer stated that it would be a lot larger and you could get into the late 1990’s or early 2000’s, but there would still be quite a few hours. Commissioner Skaggs commented that they could put this off for a year and start budgeting so much per year and, maybe, the $100,000 would be more in our grasp. Mr. Howard stated that we should wait to see what Mr. Withers says and, if he says it could be $20,000 or cannot be fixed, then we will be right back where we are.

Commissioner Detwiler stated that she did have a motion on the floor. Mayor Taylor stated that there was no reason for a motion and they could just do a consensus to let Mr. Howard do what they had talked about. Mayor Taylor stated that the motion died for the lack of a second. Mr. Howard stated that he would try to get Mr. Withers to look at it tomorrow.

• ISO rating:

Chief Kramer commented that there had been a lot of misunderstanding concerning the ISO situation and he had had a conversation with the ISO representative and, as of right now, no other fire equipment has been figured in our ISO rating. Chief Kramer stated that that came on the classification check for the City of Pratt, which was our fire protection area. Chief Kramer explained that, according to their documentation, the City of Pratt had scored a 58.5 on that survey, which was 1 ½ from a 60 that would have brought us to a 4 classification. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if a lower number was better. Chief Kramer stated that that was correct and there was only one department with a 1 classification and that was Lenexa.

Chief Kramer explained that the documentation stated that our requirements were 3,000 gpm and three engine companies. Chief Kramer commented that he had inquired whether there were any other fire departments in our rating and they told him absolutely not. Chief Kramer stated that, for other fire departments to be included you had to have an auto mutual aid agreement and the only one the City had was with the City of Iuka. Commissioner Detwiler stated that we need to get a mutual aid agreement with the County so their equipment will be counted. Mr. Howard stated that he would get on the County’s agenda. Mayor Taylor commented that, whether it was called a mutual aid agreement or interlocal government agreement, we need to get it in place.

Chief Kramer explained that, the number assigned to the City of Pratt and how the industry deals with that, was not in our control. Chief Kramer added that the number for the outlining areas on the edge of Pratt was because of what the City of Pratt had, such as the hydrants at the Ethanol Plant and the airport. Chief Kramer commented that those had helped those areas for water accessibility. Chief Kramer stated that it was the industry’s choice on whether to use the rating for the City of Pratt.

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF BID FOR A MUNICIPAL POOL STUDY:

Public Works Director Russell Rambat commented that our pool was built in the late 1930’s and it was time for a professional to look at it to see what our future holds. Mr. Rambat stated he had received two bids and the study would show how we meet ADA requirements in the bath house, along with looking at the liner and pump. Mr. Rambat added that he hoped to get a finished report so the Commission and City staff could look at the big picture.

Mr. Rambat explained that there was a bid for $1,900 from Larkin Aquatics out of Kansas City, Missouri and Water’s Edge out of Lenexa, Kansas had sent in a bid of $2,200. Mr. Rambat commented that he had not put in a recommendation since they were $300 apart and they both gave us what we were after. Mr. Rambat added that he thought that the Commission might see something in either one that would send us in a better direction. Mayor Taylor questioned if both of the companies take care of this themselves or if they were the consulting company. Mr. Rambat stated that they do the design and get involved in the construction. Mr. Rambat commented that he felt that we would be fulfilling our responsibility to have a professional look at it.

Commissioner Skaggs commented that Larkin Aquatics would do a follow-up visit and Water’s Edge was a one-time visit. Commissioner Skaggs added that Larkin was also the cheaper bid, but they both had good resumes. Mr. Rambat stated that, when we decide what direction we want to go after we get this information, we could go back out and get new bids to do the actual project. Mr. Rambat explained that this bid was for information purposes only.

Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to direct Public Works Director Rambat to contract with Larkin Aquatics to accept their bid of $1,900 for a facility evaluation and written report with one site and one presentation at the conclusion. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Detwiler and carried unanimously.

UPDATE ON DISCUSSION WITH KDOT ON 54 & 61 HIGHWAYS INTERSECTION SAFETY:

Public Works Director Rambat stated that City Manager Howard and he had met with Mr. Scott Mullen, KDOT Engineer, concerning the issues that had been brought up with improving the intersection at Highway 54 and Highway 61 when heading east. Mr. Rambat explained that KDOT would be doing a possible development in that area and they would look at that stretch from Highway 54 to Fincham Road. Mr. Rambat commented that, in the short term, they would also have crews come back in this summer and remark it on the east side. Mr. Howard commented that, after they review it, they may reconfigure it when they come in to paint it. Mr. Howard stated that they would be tearing up Highway 61 this summer and had put in for a highway intersection improvement project in 2014. Mr. Howard added that they were aware of it and would make it the best that they can.

Mr. Rambat stated that it was a busy intersection and the City had tried to keep it painted. Mr. Rambat commented that they had ground down to new concrete, but even KDOT quality paint would not stick. Mayor Taylor questioned the ‘right lane must turn’ signs. Mr. Howard stated that there were two there that say that. Commissioner Detwiler stated that there were not any when you were coming from the east. Mr. Howard stated that, when you were going west, there were two signs in that intersection, but it was just not painted. Mr. Rambat stated that they had added one or two of the sign configurations that say ‘thru lane’ and ‘right turn’, ‘left turn’ on the west side going east and he could look at adding another one on the east side. Mr. Howard commented that they were too close to the intersection to be effective. Mr. Rambat stated that they would look at it and try to move in a direction to make it safer for everybody.

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF BID FOR THE PURCHASE OF FIBER OPTIC CABLE:

Director of Electric Utilities Kelly Hemphill commented that he was looking for consideration and approval on the cost associated for replacement of 115,000 volt differential communication cable and differential relays. Mr. Hemphill added that the relays were not a part of this bid effort at this time.

Mr. Hemphill stated that the protection was necessary to maintain the transmission system reliability. Mr. Hemphill explained that the current protection was working and had been installed in 1982, but that our engineering company and Southern Pioneer had indicated that we need to change that out. Mr. Hemphill explained that they would not be able to make this project work with the April outage due to the lead time to receive the fiber optic cable.

Mr. Hemphill informed the Commission that it would take about 10,000’ of single mode fiber with sixty fibers contained in it, which would be ballistic resistant fiber. Mr. Hemphill added that it would be an overhead application that could be susceptible to shotgun fire due to hunters, who were not intentionally trying to shot the cable. Mr. Hemphill stated that this had previously been budgeted for one year in 2012 in the capital reserve fund and professional services funds for the engineering work. Mr. Hemphill added that it would be installed by City staff.

Mr. Hemphill stated that he had sent out two quotes and two were returned. Mr. Hemphill commented that Stanion Wholesale Electric had returned a bid of $16,747.75 and Kriz Davis had a bid of $17,071.90, with both having a twenty to twenty-two week lead time. Mr. Hemphill stated that Stanion Wholesale Electric was the low bid and also his recommendation. Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we had the capability of hooking all of this up. Mr. Hemphill explained that the line crew had taken training from Stanion Wholesale Electric in the handling of fiber optic cable. Mr. Hemphill added that cable TV had offered to let the City borrow their cable lashing equipment and, after that portion was done, we would have to contract someone like CDS or Southern Pioneer to terminate the ends of the fiber. Mr. Hemphill commented that that was not an expensive process, but was very time consuming.

Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to accept the bid from Stanion Wholesale Electric for fiber optic cable in the amount of $16,747.75. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Graf and carried unanimously.

OPEN AGENDA – 2:

No one in the audience wished to address the Commission.

REPORTS:

City Manager:

• Executive Session request:

City Manager Howard requested an executive session for attorney/client privilege to last ten minutes to discuss a possible contract with someone who wants to do a development. Mr. Howard asked that they hold the executive session at this time due to the City Attorney having to leave for another obligation.

Mayor Taylor made a motion to go into executive session for ten minutes to discuss attorney/client privilege. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

• Return from Executive Session:

Mayor Taylor made a motion to return from executive session with nothing to report. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

Electric Department:

• East sub-station:

Director of Electric Utilities Hemphill informed the Commission that the line crew had been installing circuit breakers in the east substation, which was an on-going project.

• Holcomb plant down:

Power Plant Superintendent Ernie Smith commented that the Holcomb Power Plant was down last week and we had run our engines for three days from about 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. when the wind was not blowing in that area. Mr. Smith stated that everything had run smooth.

Mayor Taylor questioned if they had gotten the problem fixed in Holcomb. Mr. Smith stated that they had been out for forty-five days. Mr. Howard added that it was not where we needed to generate, but they could request that periodically.

Mayor:

• House on North Main Street:

Mayor Taylor commented that he had been approached about the house on North Main Street that had been purchased by the Methodist Church and was going to be torn down. Mayor Taylor stated that he wanted to bring it up to the community and see if anyone would be interested in a nice two story house. Mayor Taylor added that you would probably be able to work a good deal with the church since it would be pretty costly to have it hauled to the landfill. Mayor Taylor explained that the citizen wanted to know if there was a City ordinance that would pertain to historic houses.

Commissioners:

• Sidewalk project:

Commissioner Detwiler questioned if there had been any further progress on the sidewalks on First and Sixth Streets. Mr. Howard explained that we had submitted a grant application to Wildlife and Parks that would help cover part of the cost that would cover the area by the Sports Complex and Country Club Road. Mr. Howard stated that he would check with Ms. Linda Lanterman on that. Mr. Howard added that, if we could cover part of that through a grant, we would budget some money this year to do other parts of it.

ADJOURN:

Commissioner Detwiler made a motion to adjourn that was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

_____________________________________
JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor





(SEAL)

ATTEST:

___________________________________
LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk

Friday, March 2, 2012

3/06/12-City Commission Meeting Agenda

MONDAY

MARCH 05, 2012

PRATT CITY COMMISSION – REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING

COMMISSION ROOM – 5:00 P.M.

1. CALL TO ORDER (Remind audience that meeting is being recorded and/or taped.)

2. ROLL CALL

3. INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4. MINUTES – February 20, 2012 Regular City Commission meeting

5. OPEN AGENDA – 1 (City Matters Only) (3 Minute Time Limit)

6. BUSINESS:

6.1 Discussion on ‘No Outlet’ Signage in Cul-de-sac at the end of South Ninnescah – Ted Neuberger

6.2 Update on Blythe Family Fitness – Zach Deeds (No packet information)

6.3 Revisit Future Sidewalk Plans for City of Pratt – Russell Rambat, Public Works Director; Dave Howard, City Manager

7. OPEN AGENDA – 2 (City Matters Only) (3 Minute Time Limit)

8. REPORTS

8.1 City Manager
8.2 City Attorney
8.3 Department Heads
8.4 Mayor
8.5 City Commission

9. EXEC. SESSION:

9.1 Attorney/Client Privilege to last Thirty Minutes – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

10. ADJOURN




***Note: City/County Joint meeting has been set for April 16th at 11:00 a.m. at City Hall. Please check your calendars to see if this date will work.