03/03/14-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY

 

MARCH 03, 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
Karen Detwiler  Commissioner
Lucus Kumberg  Commissioner

 

ALSO PRESENT: 

 

Dave Howard  City Manager
LuAnn Kramer  City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum City Attorney
Diana Garten  Finance Director
Gary Myers  Chief of Police
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 Skaggs made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 17, 2014 regular Commission meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kumberg and carried unanimously.

 

BUSINESS:

 

UPDATE ON PRATT REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER BUILDING PROJECT:

 

Pratt Regional Medical Center President and CEO Susan Page commented that she was going to give a brief summary on the status of the renovation to the hospital.  Ms. Page stated that they were seeing nice activity and the contractor was working in the boiler room jack hammering out the floor.  Ms. Page commented that the plan was to put in a new west electric room and chillers.  Ms. Page explained that they were also working on the third floor which would be operating rooms and central supplies and the new inpatient unit on the north would be seeing a lot of activity this month with walls going up quickly.

 

Ms. Page stated that they were about ten days behind schedule, but they were hoping to be able to move patients in September as phase one of the project was completed.  Ms. Page commented that phase two of the project would be moving into the hospital with the lab being moved to the first floor and the emergency room doubling in size.  Ms. Page added that there had been challenges as there were in any renovation, but it would be worth it in the end.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if she was satisfied with the City staff’s involvement in the project.  Ms. Page stated that she was very much pleased and very appreciative.  City Manager Howard commented that they were working on the water lines as well as the electrical work.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we were increasing the line.  Mr. Howard explained that they were moving the fire lines.

 

Mayor Taylor asked if there were any other things going on, like new doctors.  Ms. Page stated that they had added the Internal Medicine Group as part of the Medical Center, which became effective January 1, 2014.  Ms. Page added that they also had three new physicians, Dr. Hauser, Dr. Espinoza and Dr. Zook.  Mayor Taylor questioned if the Internal Medicine Group would be moving to the hospital or stay where they were at.  Ms. Page explained that there was no room for them, so they would stay where they were at.  Mayor Taylor commented that they had always worked with them in the past.  Ms. Page stated that that was correct, but they could have lost Internal Medicine if this had not happened; therefore, losing one to three physicians.  Ms. Page added that recruitment was important, but retaining was just as important.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if a lot of doctors would be doing that.  Ms. Page commented that they were preparing for the Affordable Care Act and this would help us work together better in serving the communities. 

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they had sufficient generators that would also accommodate the new addition.  Ms. Page stated that they did and Mr. Howard added that they would run the emergency room, but would not pick up the whole hospital.  Commissioner Skaggs asked if they were new or in addition to what they had.  Mr. Howard stated that they were all new. 

Mayor Taylor questioned if this was a three year project.  Ms. Page stated that she was hopeful that they would be done in the fall of 2015.  Commissioner Hlavachick commented that he saw a sign along the highway that stated that they were hiring.  Ms. Page stated that that was mainly for their Rehabilitation and Residence Center.

 

OPEN AGENDA:

 

• Ordinance concerning trampolines:

 

Mr. Nelson Burrell informed the Commission of damage to his property during the February 20th high winds.  Mr. Burrell explained that his neighbor’s 16’ trampoline had blown up against two of his vehicles and he had to tie it to a tree to keep it from damaging other properties.  Mr. Burrell suggested that the City draft an ordinance requiring that trampolines be tied down.  City Manager Howard stated that he had received a call from Mr. Burrell and he found an ordinance about sheds, but did not think that this would fit in it.  Mr. Howard commented that he had had some discussion with other Cities about permits, but none of those Cities want to go that route.  Mayor Taylor questioned if this was covered under homeowners insurance.  Mr. Burrell stated that he was told that it was an act of God.  Mayor Taylor stated that a simple ordinance might work if there was no liability to the owner.  City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that he would check it out.

 

REPORTS:

 

City Manager:

 

• Pilot Club train track:

 

City Manager Howard commented that work had started on the rail track at the Pilot Club train and they had made good progress.  Mr. Howard stated that they would need to get with somebody to move the engine out.  Commissioner Detwiler stated that they could contact her and they had her information.

 

• N. Fincham Street:

 

Mr. Howard stated that there would be a meeting with KDOT over North Fincham Street.  Mr. Howard added that there would be engineers from Topeka at the meeting to help figure out what to do.

 

• LEC Remodeling:

 

Mr. Howard stated that there had been an article in the paper concerning the LEC remodeling and he explained that they wanted to turn the dispatch so that they would have more room.  Mr. Howard commented that the City’s concerns were not that big of a deal.

 

Recreation Department:

 

• Scout Cabin:

 

Recreation Director Pinkall stated that he had talked to the Boy and Girl Scouts leaders concerning the condition of the cabin.  Mr. Pinkall commented that they were in need of a carpet upgrade, but their issue was size and cooperating times.  Mr. Pinkall added that they were interested in adding a storage shed for equipment and crafts.  Mayor Taylor questioned if they would want access from the inside.  Mr. Pinkall stated that he thought it was from the outside.  Mr. Pinkall explained that the Girl Scouts use shelves for storage now and their space was about 20’ X 25’ and the Boy Scouts area was twice that big.  Mr. Pinkall stated that the kitchen was small, but functions.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there was a crawl space on the boy’s side.  Mr. Pinkall stated that he thought that there was one on the front side, but he was not sure where.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the main floor was polyurethaned or if it need sanded and resealed.  Mr. Pinkall stated that that was where he had noticed some issues and there was some old termite damage.  Commissioner Skaggs asked if we could do that or if it would be hired out.  Mr. Pinkall stated that we could do it.

• Streetscape project:

Mr. Pinkall stated that the time line for the Streetscape Project was progressing and the first meeting would be tomorrow.  Mr. Pinkall commented that they would be making some final decisions with EBH Engineering and they hope the task force gets together to make final choices before KDOT gets the final bid documents out.  Mr. Pinkall explained that the bids would be let in November. 

Electric Department:

• Steam unit:

Power Plant Superintendent Smith informed the Commission that the steam unit was ready to go and would run from the 28th for about two weeks.  Mr. Smith added that they would be doing upgrading on the equipment and routine maintenance.

Mayor and Commission:

• First and Main update:

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there was an update on the First Street and Main Street project.  Mr. Howard commented that KDOT has all the information concerning adjusting the intersection lights and cutting sidewalks back.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that he did not want to lose the $800,000, but was encouraged that they were looking at other options.

ADJOURN:

Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to adjourn.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously.

____________________________
jEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor

(SEAL)

ATTEST:
_____________________________
LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk

03/17/14-City Commission Meeting Agenda

MONDAY

 MARCH 17, 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 –    March 03, 2014 Regular City Commission Meeting
                            
5.    BUSINESS:
                                                                
5.1   Proclamation for March 2014 Being ‘American Red Cross Month’ – Mayor Taylor

5.2   Consideration and Approval for a July 4th Park Day in Lemon Park – Donna Rawlings

5.3   Discussion on Maple Street Activity Environment – DeWayne Bryan, Pratt Health Foundation Exec. Director

5.4   Consideration and Approval of Replacement Appointment on the Airport Authority Board – Reid Bell, Airport Manager

5.5   Consideration and Approval of Ordinance 1406 Amending the Zoning Classification in the Eastview Addition – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

5.6   Consideration and Approval of Agreement with KDOT for the North Main Street Geometric Improvements – Russell Rambat, Public Works Director

5.7   Consideration and Approval of Re-Appointment of Dave Howard as Director #2 on the KMEA Board of Directors – Dave Howard, City Manager

5.8   Discussion on Summit Addition Issue – 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

2/17/214-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY

FEBRUARY 17, 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
Karen Detwiler  Commissioner
Lucus Kumberg  Commissioner

 

ALSO PRESENT: 

 

Dave Howard  City Manager
LuAnn Kramer  City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum City Attorney
Diana Garten  Finance Director
Gary Myers  Chief of Police
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 Kumberg made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 03, 2014 regular Commission meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously.

 

BUSINESS:

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF APPOINTMENTS TO TOURISM BOARD:

Chamber Director Kim Cline informed the Commission that Mr. Kevin Evans and Ms. Becky Eastes were willing to serve an additional three year term on the Tourism Board and Ms. Shelley Shaw was recommended to replace Ms. Grace Parmar.  After little discussion, Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to approve the reappointments of Mr. Kevin Evans and Ms. Becky Eastes and the new appointment of Ms. Shelley Shaw to three year terms on the Tourism Board.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Detwiler and carried unanimously.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION 021714 FOR HEARING ON UNSAFE, DANGEROUS, AND UNFIT STRUCTURE AT 315 ILLINOIS AVENUE:

 

City Attorney Ken Van Blaricum stated that this was another in the series of unsafe structure matters that had been discussed earlier.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that the property at 315 Illinois had been talked about earlier and the owner had been given notice by certified letters and publications in the paper.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that the hearing on the property was tonight and the owners had the opportunity to be here.  Mr. Van Blaricum added that the hearing would set the parameters for the removal or renovation of the structure to begin March 1st and end April 1st.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that the City would take over after April 1st if nothing was accomplished on this property. 

 

Building Inspector Brad Blankenship stated that the last snow had taken the roof down another notch or two.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that the property owners on either side do maintain their property.  Mr. Gerald Dick, 307 Illinois, spoke up and informed the Commission that there were cats and other animals living in the house and he would be interested in the property.  Mr. Dick commented that he had talked to the current owners, but they were not interested in selling.  Mayor Taylor stated that the Commission should take action to keep the animals and kids out.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that the property was definitely unsafe and unsightly.

 

The following Resolution 021714 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF PRATT DECLARING STRUCTURE UNSAFE, DANGEROUS, AND UNFIT PURSUANT TO K.S.A. 12-1750, et seq. AND PRATT MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 8.08.010 et seq.  Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to adopt Resolution 021714 to take care of the unsightly and unsafe structure at 315 Illinois.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kumberg and carried unanimously.  Mr. Van Blaricum clarified that all the City could do was clean it up, but we would not own it.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE 1402 PROVIDING FOR THE REGULATION OF TRAFFIC WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF PRATT; INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE “STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCE FOR KANSAS CITIES”:

 

City Attorney Van Blaricum commented that the League of Kansas Municipalities publishes a booklet every year that includes all the traffic ordinance that Cities use.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that most Cities adopt this booklet, but were free to add or subtract from it to fit their needs.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that this ordinance does that and we adopt the booklet every two or three years.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that the current edition was for 2013 and this would be what the officers would carry in their car.  Mr. Van Blaricum added that this ordinance would be attached to each book.

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned whether the fine of $20 applied to 18 wheelers using Maple Street or whether the fine was more in a residential area.  Police Chief Myers stated that there was a set fine for that.  Mr. Van Blaricum added that there was, but every violation was subject to the $80 court cost.  Commissioner Detwiler commented that she had visited several communities that had a speed less than 20 mph in their parks and questioned if we should adjust ours downward.  Commissioner Hlavachick questioned if we had had a problem.  Commissioner Detwiler commented that it was easier to arrest someone if they were going less than 20 mph and that 15 mph was plenty fast.  Commissioner Kumberg questioned what the speed limit was now in the parks.  Commissioner Detwiler stated that it was 20 mph and added that the signs were pretty high and lights did not hit them at night.  Public Works Director Rambat commented that they could be lowered, but they did not want anyone walking into them.  Mr. Rambat added that he did not know if the signs were reflective.  Commissioner Detwiler commented that she thought that they were.  City Manager Howard stated that they were high because they were getting vandalized.  Mr. Rambat commented that the cross walk signs were lower and they were getting hit more than the speed limit signs.  Commissioner Detwiler commented that the bike route signs were shoulder high.  Mr. Howard commented that the signs could be lowered.  Commissioner Detwiler added that the 20 mph signs on Santa Fe Road were also high enough that the lights did not shine on them.  Chief Myers stated that signs get spray painted if they were too low, so there had to be a happy medium somewhere.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that he realized that some people use the park as a race track, but a new speed limit would not slow them down.  Mayor Taylor commented that 10 mph would be too slow, but 20 mph would be suitable.  Chief Myers commented that he had noticed that there were not that many signs posted in Sixth Street and he suggested two signs through each way of travel.  Mr. Howard stated that they could take care of the sign issues.  Commissioner Detwiler questioned what the code was about blocking sidewalks and crosswalks.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that he would look at that and report back, but this was for additions and deletions from the code.

 

The following Ordinance 1402 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 10.04 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS PROVIDING FOR THE REGULATION OF TRAFFIC WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF PRATT; INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE “STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCE FOR KANSAS CITIES,” 2013 EDITION, WITH CERTAIN OMISSIONS, CHANGES, AND ADDITIONS; PRESCRIBING ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS; PROVIDING CERTAIN PENALTIES; AND REPEALING CHAPTER 10.4.  Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to approve Ordinance 1402 referencing the “Standard Traffic Ordinance for Kansas Cities,” 2013 Edition, with certain omissions, changes, and additions; prescribing additional regulations and providing certain penalties published by the League of Kansas Municipalities.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kumberg and carried unanimously. 

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE 1403 PROVIDING FOR THE REGULATION OF PUBLIC OFFENSES WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF PRATT; INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE “UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE FOR KANSAS CITIES”:

 

City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that this was the same idea and put out by the League; however, this booklet was for crimes and our loitering ordinance had been added to the ordinance.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that these also stay in the officer’s vehicle.  Commissioner Kumberg questioned if the omitted or deleted pieces were already in the code.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that that was correct and we were just adding to or deleting from.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the uniform code overrules local code.  Mr. Van Blaricum clarified that the uniform code was our code. 

Mr. Van Blaricum stated that a former Commission had deleted the section pertaining to barb wire and he was not sure why the worthless check section was there because Kansas law was adequate.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that the better code prevails.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that he gets with Chief Myers to see if this was all still appropriate. 

 

The following Ordinance 1403 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 9.04 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS; PROVIDING FOR THE REGULATION OF PUBLIC OFFENSES WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF PRATT, KANSAS; INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE "UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE FOR KANSAS CITIES," EDITION OF 2013, WITH CERTAIN OMISSIONS.  Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to approve Ordinance 1403 providing for the regulation of public offenses within the corporate limits of the City of Pratt, Kansas; incorporating by reference the "Uniform Public Offense Code for Kansas cities," Edition of 2013, published by the League of Kansas Municipalities.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE 1404 CONCERNING INTERCONNECTION STANDARDS FOR INSTALLATION AND PARALLEL OPERATION OF CUSTOMER-OWNED RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FACILITIES:

 

City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that this was what had been talked about at the last meeting and had been put in ordinance form.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there had been any public input.  City Manager Howard stated that he had talked to Mr. Bob Blasi, but he had no negative comments. 

 

The following Ordinance 1403 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  ORDINANCE CONCERNING INTERCONNECTION STANDARDS FOR INSTALLATION AND PARALLEL OPERATION OF CUSTOMER-OWNED RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FACILITIES.  Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to approve Ordinance 1404 concerning interconnection standards for installation and parallel operation of customer-owned residential and commercial renewable energy generation facilities.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Detwiler and carried unanimously.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE 1405 AMENDING THE CITY OF PRATT RENEWABLE ENERGY INTERCONNECTIONS AND OPERATIONS MANUAL; NET METERING:

 

Mr. Van Blaricum explained that this was on the same idea, but the previous ordinance was for interconnection and this was for net metering.  Mr. Howard stated that we may not have to have net metering, but having separate ordinances was less confusing.  Mr. Howard explained that net metering would not be needed if you put in a unit that made it impossible to push into the City.  Mayor Taylor questioned if that would have to be done at installation.  Mr. Howard stated that we could require them to do that, but we probably would not.

 

The following Ordinance 1405 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF PRATT RENEWABLE ENERGY INTERCONNECTIONS AND OPERATIONS MANUAL; NET METERING.  Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to adopt Ordinance 1405 amending the City of Pratt Renewable Energy Interconnection and Operation Manual dealing with net metering.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kumberg and carried unanimously.

 

OPEN AGENDA:

 

No one in the audience wished to address the Commission.

 

REPORTS:

 

City Manager:

 

• Natural gas prices:

 

City Manager Howard stated that our focus had been on the snow last week, but the price of natural gas and electric had maad dramatic swings.  Mr. Howard commented that the storm had caused it, but it was always a concern that it could be the trend.  Mr. Howard added that we had not had to buy, but we did run the diesel.

 

• Public Hearing on Ethanol Plant:

 

Mr. Howard stated that he had attended the County Commission’s public hearing on the Ethanol Plant along with Commissioner Hlavachick and Commissioner Skaggs.  Mr. Howard commented that the paper had done a good job covering that discussion.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned whether they had made a decision.  Mr. Howard stated that they had not gotten there yet.  Mayor Taylor questioned the proposals were less than the revitalization program would have been.  Mr. Howard stated that the plant still had the revitalization, but Daugherty was getting the rebate.  Mr. Howard added that this was a different program.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that Commission Borho had researched this and they were waiting on the Ethanol Plant.  Mr. Howard reported that there was some opposition at the hearing and some that were for it.

 

• State wide tornado drill:

 

Mr. Howard stated that the City would be participating in the State wide tornado drill on March 4th at 1:30 p.m.

 

• Miss Kansas parade:

 

Mr. Howard commented that there had been a meeting concerning the Miss Kansas parade and other events.  Mr. Howard added that the pageant was on June 7th.

 

• 613 S. Main:

 

Mr. Howard informed the Commission that the house next door had been vacated and the a/c unit should be gone by this weekend.  Mr. Howard commented that it should be torn down shortly after the a/c unit was removed.

 

Public Works:

 

• Belt filter press:

 

Public Works Director Rambat commented that he got a chance to see some testing done on the product that was produced by the belt filter press at the wastewater treatment plant.  Mr. Rambat stated that it was impressive and the operator at the landfill saw what a benefit it would be to use as a daily cover once they get a permit.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we could produce that much.  Mr. Rambat stated that they were not sure yet, but it could be mixed in with dirt, so it was like free wet dirt.

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there would be some landscaping done around the finished project.  Mr. Rambat commented that they would probably put in grass and such, but there would definitely be something.

 

• Sidewalk project:

 

Mr. Rambat stated that he had been working with Recreation Director Pinkall on the specifications for the sidewalk project and should be going out for bids soon.

 

Electric Department:

 

• Circuit tripped:

 

Director of Electric Utilities Hemphill reported that there had been one circuit tripped during the storm, but it was not off for long.  Mr. Hemphill added that the line guys did not have much that they needed to do.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that our proactive tree trimming program pays dividends after watching what was happening out east.

 

Recreation Department:

 

• Bids out in early spring:

 

Recreation Director Pinkall commented that the bid specifications that Mr. Rambat had talked about should be ready to go out in early spring and they would be bidding three projects at one time to get a better cost.  Mr. Pinkall informed the Commission that Younie Landscaping had not been able to work due to the weather, but they would get back on the sprinkler system as soon as they could.  Mr. Pinkall also stated that Mr. Kevin Hamm was ready to get the fence back up.

 

Police Department:

 

• Crime stats:

 

Police Chief Myers commented that he was finalizing the crime statistics for the police department and should have a report at the next meeting.  Chief Myers stated that calls for service and criminal offenses were down in his preliminary findings, but burglary and larceny were up as well as a dramatic increase in damage to property.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that the national news had reported that there were a lot of crimes that were down because criminals had found that stealing identities was easier.

 

Mayor and Commission:

 

• City efforts in the storm:

 

Mayor Taylor commended the entire City for all their efforts in the storm and for keeping the City running whether it was warm or cold.  Mayor Taylor added that he had heard no complaints about the streets and wanted that passed on to the staff.

 

• City/County meeting:

 

Mayor Taylor asked if we had a quarterly meeting scheduled with the County Commission.  Mr. Howard stated that we did not, but he could get one scheduled.  Mayor Taylor commented that he had had a meeting with the new PCC president and they had talked about the joint meetings.  Mayor Taylor stated that they thought it would be a good idea if PCC was involved in those meetings.

 

• Crosswalk needed:

 

Commissioner Detwiler commented that she wanted to again request that there be a crosswalk on Sixth Street when people are walking from the tennis courts to the park.  Mr. Howard stated that he did not recall being asked about that, but he would look into it.  Commissioner Detwiler stated that she thought that would help alert traffic that there were walkers.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if she wanted signs and/or pavement markings.  Commissioner Detwiler answered that she would like to see both.

 

• Zerger Park:

 

Commissioner Detwiler stated that a resident had commented that the south side of Zerger Park on Second Street was in bad shape and asked that someone look into that.

 

• Park closed at dusk:

 

Commissioner Detwiler commented that she would like to see Lemon Park closed at dusk now that the Christmas decorations were gone and there were no ballgames.  Commissioner Detwiler added that that would eliminate young kids racing in there.  Commissioner Hlavachick stated that there were a lot of ball teams that practice inside the park.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that they could not be drag racing because there was only one lane and he questioned what type of racing they were doing.  Commissioner Detwiler stated that one goes really fast and one hits their brakes and the other one stops and another one takes off after them.  Commissioner Detwiler added that they do not pay attention to someone using the crosswalk.  Mayor Taylor stated that that was two people out of seventy or eighty and he would hate to stop it because of a few.  Mayor Taylor added that he did not want to stop someone from walking if they wanted to start inside the park.  Commissioner Detwiler questioned why they would not want to start at the outside of the park.  Mayor Taylor answered that he did not like to start there.  Commissioner Detwiler commented that we would be doing it for his convenience.  Mayor Taylor commented that we would be shutting it for her convenience.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if there was plenty of light for people walking after dark.  Commissioner Detwiler stated that there was plenty of light.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that there was no easy solution and Commissioner Hlavachick added that he was not in favor of closing any public park.

 

• Scout Cabin:

 

Commissioner Hlavachick questioned who takes care of the Scout Cabin in general.  Mr. Howard stated that Park Superintendent Eckhoff and Recreation Director Pinkall do it for the most part.  Commissioner Hlavachick pointed out that the floors in the Girl and Boy Scout areas were in bad shape and needed to be replaced.  Commissioner Hlavachick stated that he had visited with Ms. Linda Loomis and she had mentioned that the floors were in bad shape and space was also another issue.  Commissioner Hlavachick commented that Ms. Loomis was going to make a list of improvements that would make it better and she might come to a Commission meeting for a presentation.  Mr. Howard stated that we could get costs around if we had a list. 

 

Mr. Pinkall commented that the maintenance part had been done by the Park Department and they also do minor repairs, but there was not a program to maintain or update it.  Mr. Howard stated that he was always told that the scouts were to keep it up, but there was no document that said who was responsible.  Commissioner Skaggs commented that he thought the main floor looked okay when he was in there the last time.  Building Inspector Blankenship commented that there was moisture getting in there that had caused some warping, so it would check it out.

 

ADJOURN:

 

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

 

_______________________________________
JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor

       
(SEAL)
  

ATTEST:

___________________________________
LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk

3/03/2014-City Commissison Meeting Agenda

MONDAY
MARCH 03, 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 – February 17, 2014 Regular City Commission Meeting
   
5. BUSINESS:
   
  5.1  Update on Pratt Regional Medical Center Building Project – Susan Page, PRMC President and CEO
   
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

02/03/2014-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY
FEBRUARY 03, 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
Karen Detwiler  Commissioner
Lucus Kumberg  Commissioner

 

ALSO PRESENT: 

 

Dave Howard  City Manager
LuAnn Kramer  City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum City Attorney
Diana Garten  Finance Director
Gary Myers  Chief of Police
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 Skaggs made a motion to approve the minutes of the January 20, 2014 regular Commission meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Detwiler and carried unanimously.

 

BUSINESS:

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION 020314 IN SUPPORT FOR AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT BY MRE CAPITAL, LLC:

 

City Attorney Ken Van Blaricum commented that this resolution goes with the contract that was signed at the last meeting between the City and MRE Capital, LLC.  Mr. Van Blaricum explained that they needed the resolution of support for their paper work on tax credits.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that this says that we are in favor of their project.

 

The following Resolution 020314 was then presented to the Commission for their approval:  A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT BY MRE CAPITAL, LLC.  Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to approve Resolution 020314 in support for an affordable housing development by MRE Capital, LLC.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

DISCUSSION ON RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FACILITY DOCUMENTS:

 

Director of Electric Utilities Kelly Hemphill commented that this was a joint effort with City staff and had taken a lot of time, but was going to be workable with the City of Pratt and the users.  Mr. Hemphill added that it was written so that it provides fairness to all of our customers and ensures that anyone with a renewable energy source was not shedding costs to others. 

 

Mr. Hemphill explained that there was an interconnect policy in effect and it had served its purpose, but net metering was not very well laid out and relied on ordinances to govern it and set guidelines.  Mr. Hemphill stated that three commercial accounts currently had renewable energy and they were Wal-Mart, Stanion Wholesale Electric and Pratt Community College.  Mr. Hemphill commented that they were not exceeding what they were consuming so net metering was not needed.  Mr. Hemphill stated that the ordinance that would be on the next agenda would fully cover all that was needed and this would be what salesmen would look at if they wanted to see our policies.

 

City Manager Dave Howard stated that we were still exempt and this was an issue that legislatures had a few years ago.  Mr. Howard added that there was an understanding that we would develop our own net metering policy and it had been a work in progress for about three years.  Mr. Howard commented that we had had help from a consultant and it should fulfill what we told the legislatures we would do, as well as be a lead for others needing to do the same thing.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we expect a rush of people to come in.  Mr. Howard stated that we do not. 

 

Commissioner Skaggs asked if the customer would bear the expense of going through the analysis.  Mr. Howard stated that, if it was complicated, they would need to hire an engineer and that would be a cost to them.  Commissioner Detwiler questioned what it would cost if we did it.  Mr. Howard stated that it would depend on what they would want done.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that they would think about it a little more if they were investing $1,000 and the customer should know about that in advance.

 

Mr. Hemphill explained that we should know if there were going to be any issues if a customer passes through our process and the application would help us know what the cost would be.  Mayor Taylor asked if we could help them with the application process if they got in trouble.  Mr. Hemphill stated we could help a little, but they also needed to go to their vendors.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the vendors would come to us to discuss the customer base first.  Mr. Hemphill stated that they would come to see what our policies were.  Mr. Howard explained that we were not after a sales pitch from a salesman; therefore, the homeowner should take it to the vendor to become educated.

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we would require liability insurance in case of any damage to our facilities.  Mr. Hemphill stated that there was protection on these things so that they shut down and disconnect before any damage was done.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they could do damage to a neighbor.  Mr. Hemphill stated that that should not happen.  Mr. Howard commented that net metering was about metering and we were going to be able to regulate that.  Mr. Howard added that we should be okay as long as they do what we say.  Energy Agent Kenny Kreutzer commented that there were a lot of built in checks and balances.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if we would have to have an ordinance where you could put a tower in your back yard if everyone wants to do this.  Mr. Howard stated that there were height restrictions so we would not.  Mr. Howard added that we were protected by our territorial rights.  After little more discussion, the Commission agreed to go forward with the ordinance for the next meeting.

 

OPEN AGENDA:

 

No one in the audience wished to address the Commission.

 

REPORTS:

 

City Manager:

 

• 613 S. Main:

 

City Manager Howard commented that we had taken possession of the property next door and had cut the utilities.  Mr. Howard stated that he had visited with Ms. Cindy Snell and she was making arrangements to have the heating and air conditioning unit taken out per our agreement.  Mr. Howard added that we would be talking to Simpson’s about removing the structure once the heating and air conditioning unit had been removed.

 

• Hope Center meeting:

 

Mr. Howard stated that the meeting at the Hope Center had been canceled due to the weather and was rescheduled for the 11th.

 

• Natural Gas Prices:

 

Mr. Howard commented that natural gas prices were around $5.50 today and had hit six mcf in the cold period, but it had been in the $3.00 range.  Mr. Howard stated that it was climbing and that was not good for electrical purposes.  Mr. Howard added that we would make adjustments if we needed to.

 

• Garden City issue:

 

Mr. Howard stated that the legal court action involving the Garden City issue had been settled out of court and we no longer had to make capacity to Sunflower.  Mr. Howard added that we could have made more if we could have sold the energy.

 

Inspection Department:

 

• West Wash:

 

Building Inspector Brad Blankenship stated that the walls were going up on the West Wash project and they were the same walls used in the hospital project.  Mr. Blankenship added that they should hold up to F1 conditions.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if they were close to brick walls.  Mr. Blankenship stated that they were 150% better.

 

• 618 S. High:

 

Mr. Blankenship stated that the asbestos company had been to 618 South High today and the owner said that it should be down by next Tuesday.  Mr. Blankenship commented that the City usually gets stuck with burnt out structures, but these owners wanted to rebuild.

 

• Motels:

 

Mr. Blankenship informed the Commission that the painting stakes were up at the Hampton Inn and the Best Western Plus had the first two floors dry walled and were moving along on the east side.

 

Electric Department:

 

• Vibration issue:

 

Director of Electric Utilities Kelly Hemphill stated that they had been working on the vibration issue with the manufacturer of the mufflers.

 

• Hospital project:

 

Mr. Hemphill stated that the line crew were continuing their work at the hospital.

 

• RICE/NESHAP Compliance Project:

 

Power Plant Superintendent Ernie Smith commented that Kessler Construction would be putting a wall between the two engines to control the air and that was part of the RICE/NESHAP Compliance project.

 

Mayor and Commission:

 

• Honeysuckle in Lemon Park:

 

Commissioner Hlavachick commented that the machine that chews up the honeysuckle was in Lemon Park and had taken a lot of it down to the ground.  Commissioner Skaggs asked where it goes.  Commissioner Hlavachick stated that it was chips and we would have to go back in the spring and spray.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if the contractor was done.  Commissioner Hlavachick stated that he had about another week, but he had blown out his hydraulic line.  Commissioner Skaggs asked if he was paid by the hour.  Commissioner Hlavachick commented that he was $125 an hour.  Mr. Howard explained that we were going to spend $5,000 of donated money and Mr. Blake Himmelwright was going to pitch in another $5,000.  Mr. Howard added that this could be a $15,000 effort.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned if this would do all of it.  Mr. Howard stated that it would and the contractor had an hour meter on his machine and that was how he was charging us.

• Condemned property:

 

Commissioner Skaggs commented that we were condemning a lot of houses, but there were others in the same condition with no one living in them.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that there would be dozens like this in five or ten years and questioned how we were going to take care of it.  Mr. Blankenship stated that a lot of those houses had out-of-town owners and he was just getting started.  Mr. Blankenship commented that he only had so much budget a year for this, but he was going to keep going.  Commissioner Skaggs stated that he knew this was a major expense and maybe we needed to look at increasing the budget.  Commissioner Skaggs added that $2,500 a pop would mount up quick and this was going to be a major budget item.

 

Commissioner Hlavachick stated that the legality procedure on some of the structures could take two or three years to get done.  Mr. Blankenship commented that some of these were from years ago.  Mayor Taylor commented that there was still some life in some of them so they could be fixed up for rentals or flipped.  City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that there were two different processes and one was what Mr. Blankenship goes through with the owners and the second part was the legal part.  Mr. Van Blaricum stated that we had been using the legal process that was available and that could take up to four months, but that had put people on notice.  Mr. Blankenship explained that, if a structure was abandoned, a judge may not side with us if the roof was fine and the walls were all there. 

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned if an owner could turn a structure over to us if they were not going to do anything.  Mr. Howard stated that they could, but we then own the property and have mowing costs and other complications.  Mr. Howard commented that the owners on either side of an unsafe structure sometimes buy that property. 

 

Mr. Van Blaricum stated that County Counselor Bob Schmisseur was aggressively working on tax sales and he had a list of properties that had not had taxes paid on them in years.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that they would start foreclosure if not paid and that should make some difference.  Mr. Van Blaricum added that, with our process and Mr. Schmisseur’s, we should chip away at the problem.

 

Executive Session:

 

Commissioner Kumberg requested an executive session to discuss attorney/client privilege to last 15 minutes to discuss the law enforcement committee and related issues 

 

Mayor Taylor made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss attorney/client privilege to last 15 minutes at the request of Commissioner Kumberg.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

 

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

 

ADJOURN:

 

Commissioner Hlavachick made a motion to adjourn.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously.

_______________________________________
JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor

(SEAL)

 

ATTEST:

_______________________________________
LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk

02/17/14-City Commission Meeting Agenda

MONDAY

February 17, 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 – February 03, 2014 Regular City Commission Meeting
   
5. BUSINESS:
   
  5.1 Consideration and Approval of Appointments to Tourism Board – Kim Cline, Chamber Director

  5.2 Consideration and Approval of Resolution 021714 for Hearing on Unsafe, Dangerous, and Unfit Structure at 315 Illinois Ave. – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

  5.3 Consideration and Approval of Ordinance 1402 Providing for the Regulation of Traffic Within the Corporate Limits of the City of Pratt; Incorporating by Reference the “Standard Traffic Ordinance for Kansas Cities” – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

  5.4 Consideration and Approval of Ordinance 1403 Providing for the Regulation of Public Offenses Within the Corporate Limits of the City of Pratt; Incorporating by Reference the “Uniform Public Offense Code for Kansas Cities” – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney

  5.5 Consideration and Approval of Ordinance 1404 Concerning Interconnection Standards for Installation and Parallel Operation of Customer-Owned Residential and Commercial Renewable Energy Generation Facilities – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney; Kelly Hemphill, Dir. of Electric Utilities; Dave Howard, City Manager

  5.6 Consideration and Approval of Ordinance 1405 Amending the City of Pratt Renewable Energy Interconnections and Operations Manual; Net Metering – Ken Van Blaricum, City Attorney; Kelly Hemphill, Dir. of Electric Utilities; 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

01/20/2014-Approved City Commission Meeting Minutes

MONDAY
JANUARY 20, 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
Karen Detwiler  Commissioner
Lucus Kumberg  Commissioner

ALSO PRESENT:

Dave Howard  City Manager
LuAnn Kramer  City Clerk
Ken Van Blaricum City Attorney
Diana Garten  Finance Director
Gary Myers  Chief of Police
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 January 06, 2014 regular Commission meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Detwiler and carried unanimously.

 

BUSINESS:

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF THE USE OF THE MUNICIPAL BUILDING BY THE BREAD OF LIFE COMMUNITY KITCHEN, INC. AT NO CHARGE ON FEBRUARY 15, 2014:

 

Ms. Barbara Jones, representative for The Bread of Life Community Kitchen, addressed the Commission concerning a dinner/dance to raise funds for The Bread of Life.  Ms. Jones explained that The Bread of Life Community Kitchen would be starting to serve one meal a week to the less fortunate at the Genesis Center from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Ms. Jones added that they would be serving on Tuesday evenings and their goal was to eventually have their own building.  Mayor Taylor questioned if the Christian Church did that once a week also.  Ms. Jones stated that there was someone that does it on Mondays, The Bread of Life will serve on Tuesdays and others do it on Wednesdays.  After little more discussion, Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to approve the use of the Municipal Building on February 15, 2014 by The Bread of Life Community Kitchen at no charge.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Skaggs and carried unanimously.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF CONTRACT OF SALE FOR PROPERTY IN THE COMPTON ADDITION BETWEEN THE CITY AND INTERSTATE HOLDINGS, LLC:

 

City Manager Howard stated that this property was the property behind Wal-Mart and what Mr. Mooney wanted to purchase last year.  Mr. Howard explained that the property was not platted or zoned this time last year, but it was now and involved up to ten acres.  Mr. Jacob Mooney, manager of Interstate Holdings, stated that they had just missed out on the tax credits for the point system last year, but they were going to involve the Parish Hotel this time and it should get them the points needed.  Mr. Mooney explained that it took a while to get with the bank concerning the Parish Hotel and they could not get them on board last year.  Mr. Mooney stated that the duplex will get the volume up with eight units and twenty-five in the hotel for a total of thirty-three.  Mr. Howard added that the contract of sale was contingent with the Parish Hotel deal going through.

 

Mr. Mooney commented that they would leave the space in between the duplexes and the commercial property that was spoken for so that it could be used for higher density in the future.  Mr. Mooney added that they were not going to buy it now, but may in the future.  Mr. Howard explained that the individual buying the three acres along Fincham Street would be cutting down that property so that the two would be tied together. 

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned whether they would work on the new construction first or the renovation.  Mr. Mooney started that they would be doing both at the same time.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned what the price range was for the duplexes.  Mr. Mooney explained that this was not a Section 8; therefore, the tenant would pay approximately $500 in rent and the government would pay the rest.  Mr. Mooney added that it was more of a hand-up than a hand-out.  Mr. Mooney commented that a tenant could increase their income by 40% and still qualify for the program.

Commissioner Kumberg questioned when they would hear about the tax credits.  Mr. Mooney stated that the actual meeting was in May.  Commissioner Skaggs asked how many units they would have at the hotel and if there would be off street parking.  Mr. Mooney answered that there would be twenty-five units and room for forty-seven or forty-eight stalls and five of those would be on street parking.  Mr. Mooney added that they would be working with the neighbor to get the five stalls off the street.  Mr. Howard commented that they had talked about parking several times and it could be tight if there was an event at the Municipal Building or school.  Mayor Taylor questioned how many units there would be on the Sixth Street project.  Mr. Mooney stated that there would be eight.  Mayor Taylor questioned why they wanted ten acres for eight units.  Mr. Mooney commented that it was up to ten acres, but they would not buy more than they needed.

 

Mr. Howard stated that the intriguing part was the involvement of the Parish Hotel project.  Mr. Mooney stated that they had tossed around the idea of it having a fitness room, library, theatre room or a restaurant/coffee shop, but they had not gotten into the financial aspect of that project yet.  Commissioner Kumberg questioned if we could make the assumption that this was a done deal since this was contingent upon the sale of the Parish Hotel.  Mr. Mooney stated that it was under contract, but not a contingency to buy and the contingencies were the creditors.

 

Commissioner Kumberg made a motion to approve the Contract of Sale in the Compton Addition between the City and Interstate Holdings, LLC.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Detwiler.  Mayor Taylor commented that this was a lot different than before and he was not sure about guaranteeing ten acres with only so much being used.  Mr. Howard stated that the draw was the Parish Hotel project.  Mayor Taylor stated that that was a great idea and we did not get anything out of the last contract.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned the initial contingency being that they put $5,000 down and we refund that if it falls through, but if they need more time they give another $5,000 to get another six months and we keep that if it falls through.  City Attorney Van Blaricum stated that it was correct that we do not keep the first $5,000 and that was only fair to the buyer.  Mr. Van Blaricum commented that, if they drag their feet after they get the tax credits, it would cost them $5,000 a month after that six months. 

 

After little more discussion, the motion and second passed unanimously.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF THE RE-APPOINTMENT OF DENIS RASMUSSEN TO THE CEMETERY BOARD:

 

Public Works Director Russell Rambat stated that the three year term of Mr. Denis Rasmussen on the cemetery board was about to expire and he would like to be considered for re-appointment.  Mr. Rambat commented that Mr. Rasmussen was very passionate and good to have on the Board.  Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to approve the re-appointment of Mr. Denis Rasmussen to an additional three year term on the Cemetery Board.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and passed unanimously.

 

CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF BIDS FOR OVERHAUL AND OTHER RELATED WORK ON UNIT #5 STEAM TURBINE:

 

Director of Electric Utilities Hemphill commented that City staff had worked long and hard to get these bids sent out and reviewed and City Manager Howard also helped throughout the process.  Mr. Hemphill added that he had made CD’s of the bid information due to the massive volume and they were available in the City Clerk’s office.  Mr. Hemphill added that this was part of the capital equipment reserve budget and had been accumulating over many years.

 

Mr. Hemphill reviewed the many bids and options with the Commission, which were as follows:

1. Five bids sent out, five returned for the installation of the boiler feed pump optionally preformed during the overhaul or separately.

• Reliable Turbine Services –
Steam Turbine:      $768,700 w/o tax, no warranty listed
BF Pump Install:    $  79,895 w/o tax, no warranty listed
Total w/o Tax -   $848,595

• Wood Group GTS - 
Steam Turbine:      $348,500 w/o tax, no warranty listed
BF Pump Install:    $  74,500, w/o tax, no warranty listed
Total w/o Tax -      $423,000

• S.T. Cotter Turbine Services –
Steam Turbine:      $219,908.65 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
BF Pump Install:    $  49,228.30 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
Deaerator Inspections:   $  40,667.00 w/o tax
Optional:  ELCid Stator testing:  $6,571.12 w/o tax
Optional:  Warranty extension for 12 months:  $14,775.50 w/o tax
Total w/o tax -   $309,803.95, no options.

• BHI Energy Power Services -
Steam Turbine:  $268,523 w/o tax, no warranty listed
BF Pump Install:  $  23,650 w/o tax, no warranty listed
Total w/o tax:  $292,173

• Power Generation Services  -
Steam Turbine:  $270,875 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
BF Pump Install:  Not Included
Total w/o tax:  $270,875 w/o tax

2. Two bids were sent out and two were returned for new or rebuilt to new condition boiler feed pump complete with frame and driver motor and with options for suction strainer, set of spare mechanical seals.

• Sulzer –
BF Pump:   $162,570 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
    $       745 w/o tax (Optional: Suction Strainer)
$  12,852 w/o tax (Optional: Set/Spare Mechanical Seals)
Total w/o tax:  $176,167 with options (8 week delivery)

• Best Pump Works Company –
BF Pump Install:  $151,646 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
 $           0  (Optional:  Suction Strainer)
 $  11,050  w/o tax (Optional: Set/Spare Mechanical Seals)
Total w/o tax: $162,466 with options (14 week delivery)

3. Two bids were sent out and two were returned for a turbine/generator vibration monitoring system with City staff install of vibration and axial displacement monitoring system.

• Bently Nevada Inc –
Vibration & Axial Displacement Monitoring System:
 $139,913 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
 $  12,257 w/o tax (Optional: Dual thrust-2 transducers)
Total w/o tax: $152,170 with option (8 week delivery)

• Experitec –
Vibration & Axial Displacement Monitoring System:
 $  51,775 w/o tax, 12 month warranty
 $   13,152 w/o tax (Optional: Spare parts)
 $          ??  w/o tax (Optional: Vibration sensors-2 transducers)
Total w/o tax: $  64,927 with option (8 week delivery)

4. Two bids were sent out for one Schweiter SEL-300G relay and associated materials and two were returned.

• Criswell Engineering –
Relays and Materials: $   7,930.72 w/o tax (20-25 working day delivery)
                                                                     (10 year warranty)

• Tri Star Power Sales –
Relays and Materials: $   7,861.60 w/o tax (20-25 working day delivery)
   
5. One bid was sent out for an estimate for labor involved in the installation of the relay and associated materials.

• FLATLAND MAINTENANCE AND TESTING-
Estimated Labor: $    7,540.00 w/o tax
Technical Lead:  $     7,320.00 w/o tax
Technical Asst.-Disconnect: $        260.00 w/o tax
Electrical testing-Generator:$     2,600.00 w/o tax

Total w/o tax:   $  17,720.00 w/o tax

6. Two bids were sent for removal of insulation from existing BFP and one was returned.

• Remediation Contractors –
Insulation Removal: $        990.00 w/o tax

• Asbestos Removal and Maintenance Inc. –
Insulation Removal: No Bid Returned

Mr. Hemphill stated that, after his recommendations, the cost summary was $577,538.67 plus sales tax of $49,957.09 for a total of $627,495.76.  Mr. Howard commented that Power Plant Superintendent Smith and his staff would start working on this to make sure that the time frame works.  Commissioner Hlavachick questioned if this was the same as the last overhaul.  Mr. Hemphill stated that it was not, but these contractors were used by Coffeyville and they got good results.  Commissioner Kumberg questioned if we do this every fifteen years.  Mr. Hemphill stated that it was supposed to be every five years, but we had been able to extend it to ten years.  Commissioner Skaggs asked how old Unit #5 was.  Mr. Hemphill stated that it was installed in 1964.  Mr. Howard stated that it was a very stable unit and it was the insurance company that said we had to do the overhaul.  Mr. Howard added that this would be the unit we would use if we were disconnected for a long time.  Mr. Smith commented that the unit was run several times a year so that we can say that it still runs.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned future worries with these guys retiring before the next overhaul.  Mr. Howard stated that we have a core group that were developing their knowledge. 

 

Commissioner Kumberg clarified that the funds to pay for this were in capital equipment reserves and we were not going to have to raise rates or do a bond issue.  Mr. Howard stated that that was correct and we had been saving for about ten years.  Mayor Taylor questioned what happens if it gets dismantled and we find something else that needs replaced.  Mr. Hemphill stated that that would be an additional cost.  Mr. Smith explained that there were parts on hand that we know are going to need replaced.  Commissioner Kumberg asked if we had contingencies for that type of stuff.  Mr. Hemphill commented that he thought that there was about $900,000 available, but some of that had been earmarked for the cooling tower.  Mr. Hemphill explained that it had not been economical to run unit #4 nor was it worth repairing, so they had informed the Commission that it was going to be moth balled, but not done away with.  Mayor Taylor questioned if it was counted towards our peak or not.  Mr. Hemphill stated that it was not applicable.

 

After no more discussion, Commissioner Skaggs made a motion to approve the bids received for the overhaul in the amount of $627,495.76 including tax.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hlavachick and carried unanimously.

 

OPEN AGENDA:

 

No one in the audience wished to address the Commission.

 

REPORTS:

 

City Manager:

 

• First Street Turn Lanes:

 

City Manager Howard stated that they had had their meeting with KDOT on the turn lanes and, after reviewing the preliminary drawings, there were some issues.  Mr. Howard commented that they requested that they look at the phase of the lights rather than turn lanes. 

 

• County meeting:

 

Mr. Howard commented that he had attended the County meeting last week with Commissioner Hlavachick and the Ethanol Plant had applied for economic rebates.  Mr. Howard stated that there would be a public hearing on February 10th at 5:00 p.m. 

 

• Meeting with Blake:

 

Mr. Howard stated that there had been a meeting with Mr. Blake Himmelwright, Park Superintendent Mark Eckoff, Public Works Director Rambat, Recreation Director Pinkall and Commissioner Hlavachick so that they could get things prioritized.  Mr. Howard commented that the key thing was going after the bush honeysuckle.

 

• 45 years of service:

 

Mr. Howard informed the Commission that Power Plant Superintendent Ernie Smith would be with the City for 45 years January 17th. 

 

Public Works:

 

• Bike route signs:

 

Public Works Director Rambat stated that they had all but two of the bike route signs installed.

 

• Crack Seal:

 

Mr. Rambat stated that they would be doing the northwest part of town when the crack seal supplies arrived.  Mr. Rambat added that he would be looking at the summer chip seal project soon.

 

Inspection Department:

 

• 618 S. High:

 

Building Inspector Blankenship stated that he had put a memo in the packet concerning 618 South High.  Mr. Blankenship commented that he had met with the owners and they had wanted to rebuild, but the integrity of the house was too far gone after the fire.  Mr. Blankenship explained that we had donated a dumpster there and they had signed an agreement to separate materials that could not go into the City’s dumpster.  Mr. Blankenship stated that they could legally rebuild there, but it was 51% burnt and had to come down.  Mr. Blankenship added that the monetary resources were not there for them, but they had a lot of family to help get it down.

 

• Hampton Inn:

 

Mr. Blankenship stated that he had received a phone call from the Hampton Inn and they finally had a sign up so the owner and contractor were putting things together.

 

Electric Departments:

 

• Southern Pioneer:

 

Director of Electric Utilities Hemphill stated that he had received a call from Southern Pioneer and they informed him that the load from Kingman would be radio read from Great Bend and the feeder from the south would be disconnected.  Mr. Hemphill explained that they were doing repairs from Great Bend from January 20th to June 20th.  Mr. Howard stated that they would be doing from Pratt to Sawyer in the next phase.

 

• Power Plant/Line Gang:

 

Mr. Hemphill commented that the line gang had installed conduit and pads for the switch gear at the hospital.  Mr. Hemphill added that they were putting the wires in now to put it into operation.

Mr. Hemphill stated that the power plant staff had been working on the vibration and Fairchild had brought down their folks and we ran for a couple of hours.  Mr. Hemphill explained that they could have passed an EPA test, but with some muffler vibration.

 

Recreation Department:

 

• Summer lunch program:

 

Recreation Director Pinkall stated that USD 382 had been recognized by the Kansas State Department of Education for their participation last summer in the youth lunch program and Superintendent Patton had thanked the City for their cooperation and participation as well.  Mr. Pinkall commented that we had become involved by taking the kids to lunch after the morning recreation activities and then took them home.  Mr. Pinkall added that it looked as though it might increase next year since the library would be getting involved with afternoon movies.

 

Finance Department:

 

• Sign donation money:

 

Finance Director Garten stated that Mr. Dwayne Bryan had brought in a donation that covered the cost of the bike route signs. 

 

Mayor and Commission:

 

• Streetscape report:

 

Commissioner Skaggs questioned Mr. Alan Luttrell, EBH Engineering, about a report on the Streetscape project.  Mr. Luttrell stated that things were moving along and on schedule.  Commissioner Skaggs questioned the narrowing of sidewalks on First Street and Main Street.  Mr. Luttrell commented that he would talk to Mr. Howard about that.

 

• Bush Honeysuckle machine:

 

Commissioner Hlavachick stated that he had received a call from Mr. Russell Graves who owns a machine that can take care of the bush honeysuckle in Lemon Park.  Commissioner Hlavachick explained that Mr. Himmelwright had hired this guy after their meeting last week and he was prepared to work instead of just doing a demonstration.  Commissioner Hlavachick commented that Mr. Graves had walked the area with Park Superintendent Eckoff and they had found a good area for him to work.  Commissioner Detwiler questioned what the shredder did.  Mr. Rambat stated that it had a high speed rotating drum and chews it up.  Commissioner Detwiler commented that it had to get the root too or it would come back.  Commissioner Hlavachick stated that we would do it again if it came back in the spring, but they would spray the stumps with stump killer.

 

ADJOURN:

 

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

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JEFF A. TAYLOR, Mayor

ATTEST:
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LUANN KRAMER, City Clerk