10/20/2014-City Commission Meeting Agendas

 MONDAY

 

OCTOBER 20, 2014

 

PRATT CITY COMMISSION - JOINT CITY COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

 

COMMISION ROOM - 11:00 a.m.

 

 

1.  CALL TO ORDER

 

2.      ROLL CALL

 

3.      DISC;USSION TOPICS:

 

      3.1  General Discussion on City/County issues

 

4.   ADJOURN

 

MONDAY

OCTOBER 20, 2014

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 –      October 06, 2014 Regular Commission Meeting

5.      BUSINESS:

5.1          Discussion and Update on Hope Center and Help in 2015 – Rev. Scott Powell, Hope Center Board of Dir. President

5.2          Comments on the ‘Big Tent Revival’ in Centennial Park – Rev. Scott Powell, Abundant Harvest Church of the Nazarene

5.3          Consideration and Approval to Accept the Low Bid for One 750 KVA Padmount Transformer – Jamie Huber, Line Distribution Superintendent

5.4          Discussion on WDM Architects Fee Proposal Concerning Lemon Park – Blake Himmelwright

5.5          Consideration and Approval to Accept the Low Bid for Bank Financing for the Lease/Purchase of the 2014 E-One Fire Truck and Authorization to Allow the City Manager to Sign any Relating Documents on Behalf of the City– Diana Garten, Finance Director; Dave Howard, City Manager

6.      OPEN AGENDA (City Matters Only)(3 Minute Time Limit)

7.      REPORTS:

 

7.1             City Manager
7.2             City Attorney
7.3             Department Superintendents
7.4             Mayor
7.5             City Commission

8.      ADJOURN

9/15/14-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY

SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

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

Gary Skaggs                 Commissioner

Lucus Kumberg            Commissioner                                            

Doug Meyer                 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

Bruce Pinkall               Recreation Director

                                               

CALL TO ORDER:

The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Taylor.  The Mayor instructed the Clerk to note that all Commissioners were present.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

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

MINUTES:

Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 15, 2014 regular Commission meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Meyer and carried unanimously. 

BUSINESS:

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL TO HAVE ‘OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS’ IN LEMON PARK AND CHANGE THE NAME TO ‘CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK’ AND TO CLOSE THE PARK TO THROUGH TRAFFIC FOR THE EVENT:

Chamber Director Kim DeClue requested the Commission approve moving the ‘Old Fashioned Christmas’ event to Lemon Park and changing the name to ‘Christmas in the Park’.  Ms. DeClue stated that the event would be from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm and it would coordinate with lighting the Christmas lights.  Ms. DeClue commented that she would like to see the park closed for that time since there would be hay rides and a lot of children running around.  Commissioner Hlavachick stated that he thought it was a good idea. 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there would be temporary parking set-up.  City Manager Howard commented that parking would be an issue with the number of people that attend, but they could park in Sixth Street Park and walk over or park along Santa Fe.  Mr. Howard added that the City owns the property to the north of Santa Fe.  Ms. DeClue informed the Commission that they did have the Municipal Building on reserve in case of bad weather.  Mr. Howard reminded Ms. DeClue that the restrooms would already be winterized so they would need to get porta potties.  Mayor Taylor questioned where the main event would be held.  Ms. DeClue stated that it would be in the gazebo area and that was where the vendors and Santa’s house would be.  Ms. DeClue added that she would be coordinating with Ms. Deb Goyen on the electrical things.  Commissioner Kumberg questioned if they would have the lights up by the 22^nd of November.  Ms. DeClue stated that they would.  Commissioner Meyer asked if the merchants were okay with this move.  Ms. DeClue stated that they were going to have their open house the next day.  Ms. DeClue commented that they would also coordinate with Recreation Director Pinkall and City Manager Howard on parking. 

Ms. DeClue commented that they could close off the road by the gazebos and omit the hay rides if that worked better for the Commission.  Mayor Taylor stated that he would appreciate them considering that.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that they would have to consider any renovations going on, traffic and parking.  Mr. Howard stated that bad weather before the event could cause more parking problems, but they could work on that later. 

Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to approve the request from Chamber Director DeClue according to the information provided and to have her work with the City staff on parking.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kumberg.  The motion and second passed unanimously.

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE 1412 AMENDING THE ZONING OF UNPLATTED PROPERTY IN THE 1400 BLOCK OF WEST 5^TH STREET:

City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that this Ordinance would rezone the 1400 Block of West 5^th Street to R-4 Multiple-Family Residential Dwelling District.  Building Inspector Blankenship added that this was the property just west of Bolen’s house and north of the duplexes.  Mr. Blankenship commented that there were other areas there that were zoned R-4.  Mayor Taylor questioned what would be going in there.  Mr. Blankenship stated that there would be duplexes, but that was contingent on the zoning changes.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there were any easements in that area.  Mr. Blankenship stated that there was a gas easement.  Commissioner Skaggs asked if they were going to move it.  Mr. Howard stated that they were not, but they would not be able to build on it.  Commissioner Meyer stated that he was on the Planning Board when this first came up and there was no opposition at the hearing.

The following Ordinance 1412 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN UNPLATTED PROPERTY IN THE 1400 BLOCK OF WEST 5^TH STREET IN THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED IN THE ZONING AND SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AS INCORPORATED INTO THE CODE OF THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS.  Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to approve Ordinance 1412 amending zoning in the 1400 block of West 5^th Street to R-4 Multiple-Family Residential Dwelling District.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Meyer and carried unanimously.

PUBLIC MEETING CONCERNING THE LEMON PARK PROJECT CONCEPT:

An audience member commented that she felt that there was too much in that area by the pavilion.  She added that the pavilion was close to the ball fields and that the llama area would lessen the congestion in that area.  She also wondered if they were doing away with the playground.  Mayor Taylor stated that those would be relocated.  Ms. Martha Wade commented that this concept was more like an amusement park and there was too much activity.  Ms. Wade stated that she did like the picnic areas. 

Commissioner Hlavachick questioned if any other comments had been put on the map.  Recreation Director Pinkall stated that there was a comment about not seeing a need for a roundabout with school buses coming in the park for games.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that he still had a concern whether this needed to be done, but he applauded Mr. Himmelwright’s efforts.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that he was concerned about a $1.2 million pavilion being in a flood plain and not having access to the City sewer system.  Commissioner Skaggs suggested that Sixth Street Park was a better location and the railroad could be abandoned eventually.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that Sixth Street Park had been suggested and it was a gorgeous location.  Mayor Taylor stated that we needed to remember the problems with the residents near the fair grounds.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that Kanza Coop uses the track and they were subsidized by the State.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the process would speed up if the City would approach the entities.  Mr. Howard stated that there was grant money used to work on the tracks and they had to keep it operational. 

Mr. Howard commented that it would be cheaper if the pavilion was taken out of the flood plain and we would do a lift station instead of a septic system.  Mr. Himmelwright questioned if Mr. Howard knew the extent of the area of the flood plain.  Mr. Howard stated that he did not.  Commissioner Kumberg stated that he liked the idea of moving the pavilion and doing the improvements.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that we were going to spend the same amount of money.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that the bathrooms were going to be a problem no matter what we did.  Ms. Janet Luttrell suggested moving the parking lot on the north side to the south side so people would not have to cross the road. 

Mr. Himmelwright stated that it had been brought to his attention that the thought in the past had been that the deed had put limitations on how the park was used, but it states ‘In further consideration of this conveyance, second party agrees to perpetually maintain and use the premises herby granted and every part thereof as and for a Public Park and for no other purpose or use whatsoever; that it will not drill or permit any person, company or corporation, singly or collectively, to drill any oil or/and gas wells thereon, nor engage in any manner or by any means in mining operations thereon.’ 

Commissioner Kumberg questioned what the next step would be.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that he could get another artist’s rendering.  Mayor Taylor suggested getting a flood plain map to see how far that goes and reminded Mr. Himmelwright that there were people that do not like the Lemon Park music at Christmas, so we could hear about that.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that parks have a certain amount of music.  Mayor Taylor commented that Sixth Street Park was not the perfect place.  Mr. Himmelwright commented that the 4-H building was not properly insulated and indoor music was not a problem.  Mr. Howard stated that we would need an architect and an engineer no matter what we did.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that he would throw in Sixth Street Park and see where it goes. 

Mr. Himmelwright stated that he had had the architect put everything on this drawing and had asked for public input.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that he should go back to the architect to incorporate some of the ideas that had been discussed.  Mayor Taylor commented that he should find out the flood plain area first and then see if it would work on the west end.

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION 091514 PROVIDING FOR ABATEMENT OF CONDITIONS AT 406 N. OAK:

City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that the property at 406 North Oak had been a problem for their neighbors.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that there were multiple animals and there were things in the back and front yards that the neighbors object to.  Mr. Van Blaricum added that the dog situation was better, but there was still a problem with the yards.

Mr. Van Blaricum stated that he was resorting to something that the City had never used before and it was a resolution that gives notice to the owners to clean it up in twenty days or we come and do it.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that they would be sent a bill if we clean it up and it would be added to their tax bill if not taken care of. 

The following Resolution 091514 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR ABATEMENT OF INJURIOUS OR DETRIMENTAL CONDITIONS ON RESIDENTIAL PREMISES PURSUANT TO PRATT MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 8.04.020.  Commissioner Kumberg stated that he had received a call about the property; therefore, he made a motion to adopt Resolution 091514 providing for abatement of injurious or detrimental conditions on residential premises at 406 North Oak.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if City staff would need the police if we go there.  Building Inspector Blankenship stated that they would not.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that one man’s junk was another’s treasure and questioned what happens if they claim that there was monetary value to some of the stuff.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that most of the stuff here could not be a man’s treasure.

Commissioner Skaggs questioned how many animals we were talking about.  Mr. Blankenship commented that he was not sure how many there were now.  Mr. Howard stated that we would hire it done and there were as many as six dogs there at one time.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that there were nine at one time and they were malnourished.  Mr. Blankenship explained that the aftermath of the dogs was a problem and they would tear up the trash and debris in the yard and it smelled.  Mr. Van Blaricum added that the dogs do live in the house, but the back yard had gotten so bad that they use the front yard now.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that the neighbors cannot open their windows up at night or the aroma goes in their house. 

Commissioner Kumberg commented that they had been to court.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that the man was disabled and he did not want to see him in jail and the wife works.  Mr. Blankenship explained that we had exhausted every option from phone calls to court.  Mr. Howard added that he had told the City and the court that he was not going to do anything.  Commissioner Meyer commented that there were other properties that we could do this to and this may send a message to others.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that he had been fined, but would not pay.  Commissioner Kumberg commented that his neighbors, Mr. Blankenship and the police had talked to them with no results.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they owned the home.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that they did not.  Mr. Howard stated that the City did not take it here, but they did and the only other option was jail time.

The motion and second to adopt Resolution 091514 was approved unanimously.  Mayor Taylor commended Mr. Van Blaricum and Mr. Blankenship on their work.

DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL ON KDHE PERFORMING GROUNDWATER INVESTIGATIONS ON CITY RIGHT-OF-WAYS AND THE POOL PARKING LOT:

City Manager Howard commented that KDHE had contacted CGP about drilling some wells on our property and other private properties to see if there was any contamination.  Mr. Howard explained that they had removed old fuel tanks but not before it got into the ground water, so they wanted to see if it had migrated.  Mr. Howard stated that he had looked at it with City staff and there was no problem with where they wanted to drill.  Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to approve KDHE and CGP to perform their investigations.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously.

OPEN AGENDA:

No one in the audience wished to address the Commission.

REPORTS:

City Manager:

·         Mid-Kansas purchase:

City Manager Howard commented that Mid-Kansas Electric had purchased the 115 kV electric transmission line from Ninnescah and they had sent a letter explaining that purchase.  Commissioner Kumberg questioned if this had any impact on us.  Mr. Howard stated that it did not.

 

·         Executive Sessions request:

Mr. Howard requested two executive sessions at the end of the meeting for attorney/client privilege to last fifteen minutes each. 

Public Works:

·         Retirement:

Public Works Director Rambat stated that Cemetery Sexton Butch Simpson had recently retired after nineteen years with the City.  Mr. Rambat commented that Mr. Jeff Gilmore was stepping into the Sexton position and he felt he was up to the challenge.  Mr. Rambat added that they would be looking for someone to replace Mr. Gilmore’s prior position.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that Mr. Simpson had done a fine job.  Mr. Rambat agreed.

Inspection Dept.:

·         Tractor Supply:

Building Inspector Blankenship stated that he would be doing his final inspection at Tractor Supply tomorrow.  Mr. Blankenship commented that they had failed some electrical inspections last week, but they were getting close.  Mr. Blankenship added that their sign should be here this week.

·         Hampton Inn:

 

Mr. Blankenship stated that the Hampton Inn’s contractor was digging footings before the graders were done, so they were serious about wanting to open by May 1^st.  Commissioner Meyer asked about the location of a restaurant.  Mr. Blankenship commented that it would be on the east and south side.  Mr. Blankenship stated that they had brought in a lot of dirt that had raised it about forty inches.

·         Pilot train:

Mr. Blankenship stated that we had received the bearing and wheels for the second coach on the Pilot Express, so they would be getting that done.

Electric Dept.:

·         Tree Trimming:

Director of Electric Utilities Hemphill stated that the line guys had been trimming trees.  Mr. Hemphill commented that a couple of outages had been caused by animals getting in the line.

Recreation:

·         Kitchen remodel:

Recreation Director Pinkall stated that they had cleaned out the whole kitchen and were starting to put the floor back in.  Mr. Pinkall added that they had also worked on the bathrooms.  Mr. Pinkall explained that they had purchased a new refrigerator and stove and had moved the sink to the west side.  Mr. Pinkall commented that they had removed the dish washer and would line the sinks up in a row plus put in an island.  Mr. Pinkall stated that they would be able to put eight roasters in the kitchen if an activity was catered in and those were on a separate circuit.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they would have rules and regulations for people using the kitchen.  Mr. Pinkall stated that there would be laminated sheets handed out to them so they know what we expect.

Power Plant:

·         Turbine overhaul:

Power Plant Superintendent Smith commented that they had been taking off the hosing to expose the insulation in preparation for the turbine overhaul.  Mr. Smith stated that there was a crew coming in to remove some asbestos and another crew that would take off the blanket insulation.  Mr. Smith added that the insulation had been there for about thirty years. 

Police Dept.:

·         Construction:

Police Chief Meyers stated that the construction at the Law Enforcement Center had started today and they had brought in another job site trailer.  Chief Myers commented that the public still had access to the Sheriff and Police Departments.

Mayor and Commission:

·         3^RD & Illinois:

Commissioner Meyer stated that he had been contacted by a home owner about the situation at Third Street and Illinois Street.  Commissioner Meyer explained that there used to be a dead-end sign there and there were a lot of trucks that go there and have to back-up.  Public Works Director Rambat stated that it had been on their radar so he would get something down there.

·         Grass growing in street:

Commissioner Hlavachick stated that grass had grown up in the street at Mound Street and Taylor Street on Blaine Street.  Mr. Rambat stated that he would have Street Superintendent Dancaster look at it.

·         Alley behind Historical Museum:

Commissioner Skaggs asked if they had been working in the alley behind the Historical Museum.  Mr. Rambat stated that there had been some utility work there by the gas company.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned what was being done with the unused rock that was there.  Mr. Rambat commented that they should spread it out if they were done working.

·         Overlay on the streets:

Commissioner Kumberg questioned if they go back to the manholes and build it up during the overlay process.  Mr. Rambat stated that they did.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that this street sealing was the best we had had.  Mr. Rambat stated that we leaned on the heavier side this year.

Executive Session:

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

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

Executive Session:

 

Mayor Taylor made a motion to enter into a second executive session for attorney/client privilege to last fifteen minutes.  The motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

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

ADJOURN:

 

Upon proper motion, the meeting was adjourned.

                                                                                    _______________________________________

                                                                                    JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor

ATTEST:

____________________________________

LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk

10/06/14-City Commission Meeting Agenda

MONDAY

OCTOBER 06, 2014

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 –      September 15, 2014 Regular Commission Meeting

5.      BUSINESS:

 

5.1          Consideration and Approval for an Easement on the Municipal Building Lot for Additional Parrish Hotel parking – Michael Younger, EBH & Associates; Dave Howard, City Manager

 

5.2          Consideration and Approval of Brick Planters in the Sidewalk South of the Parrish Hotel Building – Michael Younger, EBH & Associates

 

5.3          Discussion on Zoning Appeal on West 5^th Street – Glen Davis, Owner; Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney; Dave Howard, City Manager;

 

5.4          Consideration and Approval to Accept the Low Bid for One 750 KVA Padmount Transformer – Jamie Huber, Line Distribution Superintendent

 

5.5          Consideration and Approval of Agreement with Eric & Virginia Nystrom on the Purchase of Lots Two & Five in the Sandy Creek Addition – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

5.6          Consideration and Approval of Quitclaim Deed to Eric & Virginia Nystrom for Lots Two & Five in the Sandy Creek Addition – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

 

5.7          Consideration for the Purchase of a 2014 E-One ‘Demonstrator’ Engine – David Kramer, Fire Chief

6.      OPEN AGENDA (City Matters Only)(3 Minute Time Limit)

7.      REPORTS:

 

7.1             City Manager
7.2             City Attorney
7.3             Department Superintendents
7.4             Mayor
7.5             City Commission

8.      ADJOURN

09/02/14-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY
SEPTEMBER 02, 2014

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
Gary Skaggs                Commissioner
Lucus Kumberg           Commissioner
Doug Meyer                 Commissioner

ALSO PRESENT:

       

Dave Howard              City Manager

LuAnn Kramer            City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum      City Attorney
Diana Garten               Finance Director
Gary Myers                  Police Chief    
Brad Blankenship        Building Inspector
Bruce Pinkall               Recreation Director
                                                   
CALL TO ORDER:

The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Taylor.  The Mayor instructed the Clerk to note that all Commissioners were present.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

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

MINUTES:

Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to approve the minutes of the August 15, 2014 recessed Lemon Park Work Session and the August 18, 2014 regular Commission meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously. 

BUSINESS:

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF BIDS TO PAINT THE AIRPORT WATER TOWER:

Water Superintendent Kelvin Clay stated that the 93,000 gallonwater tank at the airport had been drained in 2009 for inspection and evaluation; however, the interior was last painted in 1995 and the exterior was done in 2004.  Mr. Clay commented that there was money set aside to paint the interior and exterior, so bids had been sent to six vendors.  Mr. Clay explained that there were two legitimate bids returned.  Mr. Clay stated that Maguire Iron out of Sioux Falls, SD bid $103,840 and Utility Service Company out of Atlanta, GA bid $84,900 tax included. 

Mr. Clay explained that Utility Service Company had bought Midwest Tank Painting out of Pittsburg, which had been one of the better water tower painting companies.  Mr. Clay added that he had called several references and they were a good company.  Mr. Clay stated that he had contacted Utility Service Company and they thought that it would be about four weeks before they would get to this job if they got the bid.

Commissioner Skaggs questioned how old this tower was.  Mr. Clay stated that it was put up in 1986.  Commissioner Skaggs asked what the life span was for a water tower.  Mr. Clay answered that it was eighty to one hundred years if they were maintained correctly.  Commissioner Skaggs asked about City water being supplied out there.  City Manager Howard stated that they would keep the tank for storage or recommend a bigger one.  Mr. Clay added that he did not see doing away with it if we did get City water up there due to the need for fire service.

After little more discussion, Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to accept the bid from Utility Service Company out of Atlanta, GA in the amount of $84,900 with tax included.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

DISCUSSION ON DONATION FROM BOEING TO CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT:

Fire Chief David Kramer stated that his Assistant Chief had not shown up yet and Mayor Taylor suggested that we table this agenda item so that Assistant Chief Stevens could get here.

PUBLIC MEETING CONCERNING THE LEMON PARK PROJECT CONCEPT:

Mayor Taylor stated that the Commission welcomed input from the community on the proposed Lemon Park concept.  Recreation Director Pinkall stated that there had been a big diagram in the lobby and there were some notes on the bottom with comments from the public.  Mr. Blake Himmelwright commented that an architect had come up with this concept and it included a round-about, a pavilion, a bypass for bikes, an amphitheater, a new splash pad and a new parking lot.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that the pavilion would serve multi-purposes and be a rentable venue for weddings, meetings and concerts in the park.  Mr. Himmelwright explained that this concept would enlarge the park. 

Ms. Karen Detwiler expressed her concern for busses being able to get in and out of the park with the round-about there.  Ms. Detwiler commented that she had seen traffic backed up on Pine Street and Santa Fe Road for Christmas lights and that causes a bottle neck for the flow of traffic to come in and out of the park.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that they had not discussed those type of details.  Ms. Detwiler questioned if they would still continue to lock the park at night.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that that still needs to happen and he would not change that policy.  Ms. Detwiler stated that she had seen the park flood six times and in 1991 it had taken the blacktop off of the road.  Ms. Detwiler commented that she did not want the flooding issue to be forgotten.  Ms. Detwiler stated that she would like to see this happen and to incorporate Sixth Street Park since we had done that with the Christmas lights.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that the pavilion would be moved above the flood plain.  Ms. Rachel Himmelwright stated that she liked the entrance into the park and that should reduce traffic on Pine Street.  Ms. Himmelwright commented that she was in favor of moving the road and that would also make it safer for the children playing on the playground equipment. 

Mr. Himmelwright commented that a bathroom was in the plans and would be incorporated in the pavilion.  Fire Chief Kramer questioned if there was a possibility of another bathroom located in another part of the park.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that that was a lot of distance and that was not a bad idea.  Mr. Himmelwright commented that we could not do everything, but could do a lot.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that the pavilion would have large trees around it and would be a rentable venue for weddings, indoor and outdoor movies and picnics.  City Attorney Van Blaricum questioned if there would be room for a dog park.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that he did not know why not and there were a lot of people that would like to see that happen.  Ms. Detwiler questioned if the area east of the parking could be considered.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that it would be a pretty good place.

Mr. Himmelwright explained that there would be landscape lighting, a dog park, bike racks, water station, one way walking paths, an expanded playground and the electrical lines would be underground.  Mr. Howard commented that some of that had already been done.  Ms. Detwiler stated that she would like to see the speed controlled through the park with speed bumps.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that that was not a bad idea.  Ms. Detwiler questioned how they were going to make sure people stay off the grass and in the parking areas.  Mayor Taylor commented that, outside of what keeps them from doing it now, you could put up a fence.  Mayor Taylor stated that the park was used by many and abused by a few and you could not close off it to the majority of the people. 

A member of the audience asked what the cost was for this project.  Mr. Himmelwright stated that it was a little over $2 million, but added that we would not be doing it all at once.  Mr. Himmelwright explained that we would start with the pavilion and improving the parking lot.  Mr. Himmelwright added that it would be partially funded with bed tax and a capital campaign.  Commissioner Kumberg commented that Lemon Park had always been an asset to the community and it would benefit to have a pavilion.  Ms. Detwiler stated that it was a beautiful idea and she was anxious to see what happens.  Mayor Taylor stated that there would be a follow-up meeting at the next Commission meeting on September 15^th.

DISCUSSION ON DONATION FROM BOEING TO CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT (cont.):

Chief Kramer explained that Boeing in Wichita had offered to donate some fire apparatus to the City Fire Department since they were closing out their Wichita branch.  Chief Kramer stated that there was a small pick-up squad and an ambulance and both were titled equipment.  Asst. Chief Stevens explained that he was the president of the B-29 group and had gone over to see Doc.  Asst. Chief Stevens stated that Mr. Dean Williams, former Pratt resident, had heard that he was coming over and had visited with him about donating the equipment to Pratt. 

Asst. Chief Stevens commented that the equipment had new rubber and around 16,000 to 17,000 miles.  Asst. Chief Stevens stated that they had a full time mechanic at Boeing and regular firemen that operated this equipment.  Asst. Chief Stevens informed the Commission that they wanted to give the equipment to a group like us with no strings attached and Chief Kramer had sent their corporate office a letter stating that we were interested, but we had not heard back yet. 

Mayor Taylor questioned that there was a tank and pumper truck.  Chief Kramer explained that it was not a big structure fire vehicle, but a quick attack vehicle.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they had room to store them inside.  Chief Kramer stated that they did.  Chief Kramer stated that his officers and he had discussed it and, if it was going to take a lot to fix them up, they were going to decline the offer.  Mr. Howard commented that it was also four-wheel drive.  Commissioner Meyer asked if they would want it repainted.  Chief Kramer stated that he did not know how they were going to deal with that yet.

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the City Manager saw any down side to this.  Mr. Howard stated that he did not.  Mayor Taylor asked if there was anything we had to do that involved funds.  Asst. Chief Stevens stated that there was not, but they would have to get a title for one of them, but that was not a problem.  Mr. Howard added that there had been a couple of snow storms that made it hard for the fire equipment to get around, so this would work for them in those situations.  Chief Kramer stated that they had not heard back from Washington, but they did not know why it would not go through.  Commissioner Kumberg stated that this would be a positive for the ISO report also.  Chief Kramer stated that it would be and we were fortunate that we had someone who was in the right spot at the right time.

Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to accept the equipment offered for donation by Boeing to the City of Pratt Fire Department.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Meyer and carried unanimously.

·         ISO report:

Chief Kramer quickly brought the ISO report to the Commissioner’s attention.  Chief Kramer stated that their last ISO inspection had been in 2001 and they had just been here a couple of months ago.  Chief Kramer commented that he had not had time to analyze the report, but the bottom line was that we went to a better grade.  Chief Kramer explained that the report points out weaknesses, but they already knew about the pumper situation and the gallons per minute.  Chief Kramer stated that Water Superintendent Clay had worked hard for them also.  Chief Kramer added that they do point out some things that we could do to improve it.

Commissioner Kumberg stated that people pay a lot of money for assessments and we got it for free plus they also gave us an action plan.  Chief Kramer agreed.  Commissioner Meyer stated that the department had done a good job.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that he was amazed that the City had 401 hydrants and questioned if we test those.  Chief Kramer stated that they go through the whole system once a year.  Mayor Taylor questioned if they were expensive to replace.  Mr. Howard stated that they were about $2,000 apiece.

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORD. 1410 REZONING 107 STARR STREET FROM MP MOBILE HOME DISTRICT TO C-S HIGHWAY SERVICE DISTRICT:

City Attorney Ken Van Blaricum stated that the rezoning of 107 Starr Street had been approved by the Planning Commission back in March.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that the ordinance makes the zoning change for the VFW building from residential to C-S Highway District.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that he could see having highway frontage on the front, but questioned what happens if they build to the south.  Building Inspector Blankenship stated that they had sent out notices for a public hearing twice.  Commissioner Meyer stated that that had been his last meeting on the Planning Commission and they had had one person ask about property tax.  Mr. Howard added that they had to resend the notice because they had forgotten some.  Mr. Blankenship explained that there were some on the south side of Highway 54 and bordering Second Street and they wanted to know why they had been notified.  Mr. Blankenship stated that they had taken a look at the issue with highway service, but there were a lot in that area with highway services.

The following Ordinance 1410 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF LOTS ONE THROUGH FIVE (1-5) IN BLOCK TWENTY SIX (26) IN BUENA VISTA HEIGHTS ADDITION TO THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED IN THE ZONING AND SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AS INCORPORATED INTO THE CODE OF THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS.  Commissioner Meyer made a motion to approve Ordinance 1410 rezoning Lots one through five in Block Twenty-six in the Buena Vista Heights Addition to C-S Highway District.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and it passed unanimously.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they do spot zoning.  Mr. Howard stated that they probably have had it brought up, but you would have to take out right-of-ways, trailer sales, storage units and liquor stores.  Mr. Howard added that that was what the public hearings were for.

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORD. 1411 REZONING LOTS 1 – 7 AND LOTS 39 – 47, BLOCK 4 OF THE SANDY CREEK ADDITION FROM R-1 SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING DISTRICT TO R-1A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING DISTRICT:

Mr. Van Blaricum stated that this ordinance rezoned part of the Sandy Creek Addition and had been approved by the Planning Commission recently.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that they were coming back with rezoning lots with the new zoning of R-1A Single Family Dwelling District.  Mayor Taylor questioned why we were making the change.  Mr. Howard stated that R-1A was tougher and had stiffer regulations.  Mr. Howard added that regulations would be done through zoning and not through covenants, such as lot splits, fencing, etc.  Mr. Blankenship stated that they were more restrictive, but did not go overboard.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if this would apply to all of Sandy Creek Addition.  Mr. Blankenship stated that it would be for phase one and they would zone phase two when they start on it.

The following Ordinance 1411 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF LOTS ONE THROUGH SEVEN (1-7) AND LOTS THIRTY-NINE THROUGH FORTY-SEVEN (39-47), ALL IN BLOCK FOUR (4) IN SANDY CREEK ADDITION TO THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED IN THE ZONING AND SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AS INCORPORATED INTO THE CODE OF THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS.  Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to approve Ordinance 1411.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kumberg and carried unanimously.

OPEN AGENDA:

·         Luca:

Mr. Luca Matei stated that he had been to the Commission to issue a public complaint concerning false accusations and that he got no information from attorneys.  Mr. Matei commented that he had come to the Commission to complain and he had written the FBI and Senators and they were not credible.  Mr. Matei added that he did not know what action the City was taking or not taking, but this was a violation of his constitutional right.

·         Lost people:

Mr. Matei questioned if there was someone to help the homeless and poor lost people.  Mr. Matei stated that he would like to have a phone number to give them for help.  Mayor Taylor stated that there was the Hope Center where they could get food and clothing.  Mr. Matei commented that he had let one stay in an empty apartment because he needed shelter for the night.

REPORTS:

City Manager:

·         Drilling on wells:

Mr. Howard stated that the contractor through KDHE had started work on the contaminated wells.  Mr. Howard reminded the Commission that we had paid into that fund and KDHE was paying the rest.

·         Hampton Inn:

Mr. Howard stated that the dirt contractor for the Hampton Inn should start Thursday.  Mr. Blankenship added that he had sent changes to the architect, but the plans were okay.  Mr. Howard commented that there was no permit needed to do the dirt work.

·         Chip Seal project:

Mr. Howard stated that the chip seal project was almost complete.

City Attorney:

·         Deda contract:

City Attorney Van Blaricum informed the Commission that the contract with Mr. Addam Deda was ready for closing on Friday at 10:00 a.m.

Building Inspections:

·         Tractor Supply:

Building Inspector Blankenship stated that Tractor Supply was moving some things in and he would be doing an inspection tomorrow.  Mr. Blankenship commented that they would be moving their belongings in and the main shell was close.  Mr. Blankenship explained that they were done with the concrete, drywall and fencing, but were also close on the painting.  Mr. Blankenship added that they had set a September 15^th deadline and they had been working seven days a week.  Mr. Blankenship stated that the sign company would be in at the end of this week.  Mayor Taylor questioned if the fee for a sign was $25.00.  Mr. Blankenship explained that you had to have a permit and the permit fee was $25.00.

Commissioner Skaggs questioned how much ED money had gone into Tractor Supply.  Mr. Howard stated that it was around $125,000, which was for concrete and fencing.  Mr. Howard added that all of it had been outside work.

Power Plant:

·         Turbine overhaul:

Power Plant Superintendent Smith commented that they were getting ready for the turbine overhaul and there would be a crew coming to remove the asbestos.

Police Dept.:

·         Temporary Dispatch Center:

Police Chief Myers informed the Commission that they would start the move to the temporary dispatch center this week.  Chief Myers commented that they would start with the phones and radios.  Chief Myers stated that they were looking at three to six months for the construction process.

Fire Dept.:

·         MDA Boot Block:

Fire Chief Kramer commented that City Fire had decided to do their boot block for MDA a couple of weeks early this year and it had paid off.  Chief Kramer stated that they had collected $4,200 and that was $1,000 more than last year.

ADJOURN:

Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to adjourn that was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs.  The motion and second passed unanimously.

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JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor

ATTEST:

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LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk