City Commission
Regular MeetingOttawa, KS · December 18, 2023
Minutes
Study Session Minutes
Ottawa, Kansas
Minutes of December 18, 2023
The Governing Body met at 4:00 pm this date at City Hall with the following members present and
participating to wit: Mayor Crowley, Mayor Pro Tem Skidmore, Commissioner Caylor, and
Commissioner Graves. Mayor Crowley called the meeting to order. Commissioner Clayton
arrived at 4:19 pm.
Public Comments
No public comments were received.
Minutes to Review
The Governing Body reviewed minutes from the December 6, 2023 Regular Meeting and the
December 11, 2023 Study Session. The Governing Body agreed by consensus to place these
items on the next Regular Meeting agenda on December 20, 2023.
Continued Discussion Regarding Common Consumption District on Main Street
The Governing Body continued the discussion on establishing a common consumption district.
Key points were presented by Ottawa Main Street Director Sara Stauffer and City Attorney Blaine
Finch, covering the following topics:
• A consensus was reached to institute a formalized process for issuing permits to open the
common consumption area.
• Deliberation took place regarding potential boundaries for the common consumption
district.
• The discussion included considerations for the hours during which the common
consumption area would be operational.
• The need to establish specific days of the week and corresponding times for the common
consumption area was thoroughly explored.
Following careful consideration, the Governing Body directed staff to prepare a draft ordinance
containing proposed changes. This draft will be presented for review during the upcoming study
session.
Ordinance Amending Specific Sections of Municipal Code Concerning Fees for
Registration of Dogs
The Governing Body reviewed an ordinance for changes to the dog licensing related to Section 3-
33 Municipal code.
After discussion, the Governing Body agreed by consensus to place this item on the next Regular
Meeting on December 20, 2023.
Continued Discussion on Distribution of Donation to Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund
The Governing Body continued the discussion on the generous donation of $2,000 received from
the Cosentino family.
After discussion, the Governing Body agreed by consensus to donate $1,000 to ECKAN and
$1,000 to Hope House.
December 18, 2023
City of Ottawa
Study Session Minutes
December 18, 2023
Page 2
City Manager's Comments
City Manager Brian Silcott updated the Governing Body on the upcoming agenda items.
Governing Body Comments
No comments were given.
Announcements
A. December 20, 2023 – Regular Meeting – 10:00 am, City Hall
B. December 22, 2023 – Retirement Reception for Fire Chief Tim Matthias – 2:00 – 4:00 pm,
Fire Station #1
C. December 25, 2023 – Christmas Holiday – Study Session CANCELLED, City Hall CLOSED
D. January 1, 2024 – New Year’s Day Holiday – Study Session CANCELLED, City Hall
CLOSED
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Governing Body, the Mayor declared the
meeting duly adjourned at 4:50 p.m.
/s/ Melissa Reed
Melissa Reed, City Clerk
2
December 18, 2023
Agenda
OTTAWA CITY COMMISSION REVISED STUDY SESSION AGENDA
Monday, December 18, 2023 - 4:00 pm Ottawa City Hall - 101 S. Hickory
In accordance with Kansas Open Meetings Act (KOMA), the Citizens may attend in person, VIA ZOOM or submit comments
meeting can be viewed live on Channel 23 and via Facebook Live (300 words or less) for the City Commission. To submit your public
or listened to by dialing: 1-312-626-6799 and entering meeting comment or to request the meeting Zoom link to give a public
ID 919 2144 9005#. To view on YouTube: https:// comment, email publiccomments@ottawaks.gov no later than
www.youtube.com/@ottawaksgov 2:00 pm on December 18, 2023; all emails must include your name
If you need this information in another format or require a and address.
reasonable accommodation to attend this meeting, contact the Participants who generate unwanted or distracting noises may be
City’s ADA Coordinator at 785-229-3621. Please provide advance muted by the meeting host. If this happens, unmute yourself when
notice of at least two (2) working days. TTY users please call 711. you wish to speak.
I. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Subject to the above restrictions, persons who wish to address the City Commission regarding items on the agenda may do so
as that agenda item is called. Persons who wish to address the City Commission regarding items not on the agenda and that are
under the jurisdiction of the City Commission, may do so at this time when called upon by the Mayor. Comments on personnel
matters and matters pending in court or with other outside tribunals are not permitted. Speakers are limited to three minutes.
Any presentation is for informational purposes only. The Governing Body will take comments under advisement.
II. ITEMS TO BE PLACED ON THE REGULAR CITY COMMISSION AGENDA (Click on the item to access the attachment)
A. Minutes (Pp. 2 - 8)
1. December 6, 2023 Regular Meeting
2. December 11, 2023 Study Session
III. ITEMS FOR PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION *
A. Continued Discussion of Common Consumption District on Main Street - Ottawa Main Street Association
Director Sara Stauffer (Pp. 9 - 32)
B. Ordinance Amending Specific Sections of Municipal Code Concerning Fees for Registration of Dogs - Prairie
Paws Animal Shelter Executive Director Vanessa Cowie / City Attorney Finch (Pp. 33 - 36)
C. Continued Discussion on Distribution of Donation to Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund (P. 37)
D. Comments by City Manager
E. Comments by Governing Body
IV. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. December 20, 2023 Regular Meeting - 10:00 am, City Hall
B. December 22, 2023 Retirement Reception for Fire Chief Tim Matthias - 2:00-4:00 pm, Fire Station #1
C. December 25, 2023 Christmas Holiday - Study Session CANCELLED, City Hall CLOSED
D. January 1, 2024 New Year’s Day Holiday - Study Session CANCELLED, City Hall CLOSED
V. ALREADY PLACED
A. Minutes from the November 20, 2023 Regular Meeting and December 4, 2023 Study Session
B. Ottawa Municipal Airport Master Plan Update
C. Ordinance Removing No Parking Zone on South Poplar Street Between 5th and 6th Streets
D. Applications for 2024 Cereal Malt Beverage Licenses
E. Charter Ordinance Amending Charter Ordinance 2015-20 to Change Commencement Date for Commission
Term of Office
VI. ADJOURN
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #1
Back to Agenda
Regular Meeting Minutes
City Hall
101 S Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas
Minutes of December 6, 2023
The Governing Body met at 7:00 pm on this date for the Regular City Commission
Meeting with the following members present and participating to wit: Mayor Crowley,
Mayor Pro Tem Skidmore, Commissioner Caylor, Commissioner Clayton, and
Commissioner Graves. Mayor Crowley called the meeting to order.
The Mayor welcomed the audience and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the American
flag. Pastor Drew Reding from Grace Community Fellowship Church gave the
invocation.
Consent Agenda
Commissioner Graves made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Skidmore, to
approve this consent agenda to include minutes from the November 13, 2023 Study
Session, November 15, 2023 Regular Meeting and this Regular Meeting agenda. The
motion was considered, and upon being put, all present voted aye. The Mayor declared
the consent agenda duly approved.
Public Comments
None offered at this time.
Declaration
None declared.
Conduct a Public Hearing for the Purpose of Hearing and Considering Objections
of Taxpayers Related to the Proposed Use of Funds
This public hearing was called to consider amending the 2023 Budget for the following
funds: Library, Proximity Park-Special Sales Tax Fund, and Golf Course Fund.
The Governing Body heard from Finance Director Melanie Landis, who stated that
these 2023 Budget amendments are necessary for the following funds:
• Library
• Proximity Park – Special Sales Tax Fund
• Golf Course Fund
•
Mayor Crowley opened this public hearing at 7:04 pm.
There were no further comments offered during the public hearing.
The Mayor closed the public hearing at 7:04 pm.
Acceptance of 2023 Budget Amendments
Commissioner Caylor made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Clayton, to accept
the 2023 Budget Amending the Library, Proximity Park-Special Sales Tax, and Golf
Course Fund. The motion was considered and upon being put, all present voted aye.
The Mayor declared the amendments duly approved.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #2
Addition of Twenty-Two Residential and Two Commercial Properties to the
Neighborhood Revitalization Program
The Governing Body heard from Lucas Neece, Director of Neighborhood Services, who
reviewed the twenty-two residential structures and two commercial properties to add to
the Neighborhood Revitalization Program:
• Neighborhood Revitalization Program Review Committee recommends all
twenty-two residential structures and two commercial properties be included in
the NRP
• The City of Ottawa's portion on the residential projects of the tax rebate amount
per year for years one through five is $12,522.47 and $8,414.70 a year for years
six through ten
• The difference is because the rehabilitation projects only benefit from a five-year
rebate, while new residential benefit from a ten-year rebate
• Residential rebate from the City of Ottawa for this group of projects is expected
to total $104,685.85 over ten years
• Commercial total over ten years is $29,907.15
Residential new address (95% for ten Residential Remodel (95% for five
years) years)
714 S. Funston St. (For Sale) 311 S. Sycamore St. (Homeowner
Occupied)
716 S. Funston St. (For Sale) 834 S. Burrough St. (Homeowner
Occupied)
716 S. Pecan St. (For Sale) 1230 S. Willow St. (Homeowner
Occupied)
718 S. Funston St. (For Sale) 507 S. Beech St. (Homeowner Occupied)
735 S. Funston St. (For Sale) 1004 E. 7th St. (For Sale)
739 S. Cherry St. (For Sale) 710 E. 10th St. (For Sale)
741 S. Cherry St. (For Sale) 916 S. Main St. (For Rent)
947 S. Locust St. (For Sale) 920 S. Main St. (For Rent)
830 S. Elm St. (For Rent) 215 E. Red Jacket St. (Undecided
413 E. 2nd St. (Undecided) 836 E. 7th St. (Undecided)
1004 S. Walnut St. (Undecided) 410 S. Cherry St. (Undecided)
Commercial
113 S. Main St.
932 N. Locust St.
Commissioner Caylor made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Clayon, to approve
the recommendation to add eleven properties to the Neighborhood Revitalization
Program. The motion was considered and upon being put, all present voted aye.
Commission Clayton abstained from 410 S. Cherry St. Mayor Crowley abstained from
716 S. Pecan St. The Mayor declared these duly approved.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #3
Recognition of Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law
Enforcement Agencies
The Governing Body heard from Police Chief Adam Weingartner, who presented the
department’s 3rd award for CALEA Accreditation. Chief Weingartner answered
questions and presented the following information:
• November 11, 2023, the department was awarded Law Enforcement
Accreditation – 3rd Award by the Commission on Accreditation for Law
Enforcement Agencies
• Initial accreditation in November 2015 and 2nd accreditation award in 2019
• CALEA reviews approximately 25% of department policies and procedures each
year for four years
• Less than 5% of law enforcement agencies in the US are CALEA accredited
• Accreditation helps agencies adhere to what is considered “best practices” and
updates policy standards regularly to ensure agencies are meeting the
requirements of modern policing
City Manager’s Comments
City Manager Brian Silcott updated to the Governing Body on upcoming study session
agenda items.
Commissioner’s Comments
Commissioner Caylor expressed gratitude to the seniors in attendance at the meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Skidmore noted the noteworthy rise in the number of applicants for
open positions within the city staff.
Mayor’s Comments
Mayor Crowley extended appreciation to Fire Chief Tim Matthias for his unwavering
dedication and service to the City of Ottawa. The Mayor also conveyed well wishes for a
fulfilling retirement.
Announcements
Mayor Crowley made the following announcements:
1. December 11, 2023 Study Session - 4:00 pm, City Hall
2. December 18, 2023 Study Session – 4:00 pm, City Hall
3. December 20, 2023 Regular Meeting - 10:00 am, City Hall
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Governing Body, the Mayor
declared the meeting duly adjourned at 7:35 pm.
__________________________
Melissa Reed, City Clerk
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #4
Back to Agenda
Study Session Minutes
Ottawa, Kansas
Minutes of December 11, 2023
The Governing Body met at 4:00 pm this date at City Hall with the following members present and
participating to wit: Mayor Crowley, Mayor Pro Tem Skidmore, Commissioner Caylor,
Commissioner Graves and Commissioner Clayton. Mayor Crowley called the meeting to order.
Public Comments
No public comments were received.
Interviews for City Boards and Commissions
The Governing Body conducted an interview with Gary Harris for the open Planning Commission
position. The Mayor announced that a discussion on this vacancy would take place at the end of
the meeting.
Minutes to Review
The Governing Body reviewed minutes from the November 20, 2023 Regular Meeting and the
December 4, 2023 Study Session. The Governing Body agreed by consensus to place these
items on the next Regular Meeting agenda on December 20, 2023.
Discussion Regarding Common Consumption District on Main Street
The Governing Body heard from Ottawa Main Street Association Director Sara Stauffer,
presented a proposal for a common consumption district on Main Street and included the
following:
• House Bill 2059 was signed on April 24, 2023 which creates the ability to establish
common consumption areas
• Restaurants, bars and breweries within the district, as well as vendors at special events
within the district boundaries, may serve alcoholic beverages that may be carried out of the
establishment and consumed within the district
• Drink must be in a designated cup which is proposed to be 16 ounces and will be provided
by a participating business within the district
• Times and days of the week would need to be established
• Downtown District options were discussed
After discussion, the Governing Body agreed by consensus to place this item on the next study
session agenda.
Discussion of Dog Licensing Requirements
The Governing Body heard from Prairie Paws Animal Shelter Executive Director Vanessa Cowie
who discussed the current dog licensing requirements and the following:
• Low compliance for the current dog licensing program
• Proposing an exemption option if pets are spay/neutered, microchipped and vaccinated
(Rabies)
• Tag fee doesn’t cover the cost to administer the program
After deliberation, the Governing Body requested staff to draft an ordinance with proposed
changes for review at the next study session.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #5
Ottawa Municipal Airport Master Plan Update
The Governing Body heard from Director of Public Works Michael Haeffele, who reviewed the
airport master plan update and included the following:
• Every ten years GA Airports must submit a master plan that outlines potential projects that
will qualify for federal funding
• Updates to the master plan are completed annually which start with the Airport Board
• Some of the projects included in the master plan include taxiway lighting, rehabilitating the
taxiway, runway 18 obstruction removal, construction connecting taxiway, upgrading
AWOS, and constructing wind cone with a segmented circle
• Status of the Facility Requirements:
o Paving crosswind runway – not started
o Extending runway 17/35 to 5,500 feet – not started
o Construct maintenance hangar – not started
o Construct storage hangar - not started
o Install MITL on the taxiway – completed 2021
o Upgrade PAPI lights on Runway 17/35 – not started
o Install 2 light PAPI system on Runway 13/31 – not started
o Perimeter fencing – not started
o Fiber extension for internet – not started
o Install Jet-A fuel tank (6,000) and pump – completed in 2018
• The biggest challenge or obstacle the airport faces is the lack of funding from the FAA and
on the City side
• Staff recommends reviewing and placing this item on the December 20, 2023 regular City
Commission meeting for approval
After discussion, the Governing Body agreed by consensus to place this item on the next regular
meeting agenda.
Ordinance Providing for the Regulation of Vehicular and Pedestrian Traffic, Including No
Parking Zones, and Removing the No Parking Zone on South Poplar Street Between 5th and
6th Streets by Amending Section 12-317 of the Municipal Code
The Governing Body heard from Director of Neighborhood Services Lucas Neece, who a
proposed ordinance which would amend Section 12-317 of Municipal Code and included the
following:
• Parking is restricted in the 500 block of S. Poplar dating back to the former use of the
building on the east side of the block as an elementary school
• Building is now used by Grace Community Fellowship which has different parking needs
from an elementary school
• Ordinance would allow parking on S. Poplar and would help meet the needs of the church
for parking during Sunday services without burdening the City or without converting any
grass areas to pavement which would negatively impact stormwater
After discussion, the Governing Body agreed by consensus to place this item on the next Regular
Meeting agenda.
Applications for the 2024 Cereal Malt Beverage (CMB) Licenses
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #6
Back to Agenda
The Governing Body heard from City Clerk Melissa Reed, who reviewed the following list of 2024
Cereal Malt Beverage license application renewals.
For Consumption on the Premises: John Duncan, Pizza Time Pub LLC; Juana and Richard
Uht, Pizza Village, Inc.; Samuel Pacheco II, Maria’s Mexican; Riley Browning, Browning Barbering
Not for Consumption on the Premises: Casey’s Store #2362; Casey’s Store #2668; Casey’s
Store #2746; Love’s Travel Stop #258; Sunflower Energy, DBA Ottawa BP; Heartland Petroleum,
DBA Mini Mart; Morani, Inc., DBA Logan 66; Walgreen’s Co.; SM Trading Corp, DBA Fuel
Express; Cosentino Group, Inc., DBA Price Chopper; Haag Inc, DBA Kicks 66; Wal-Mart #382;
Group Fuel Centers, DBA Price Chopper Express; Casey’s Store #4340; Dollar General Store
#4665; Dollar General Store #21732
The Governing Body agreed by consensus to place these items on the next Regular Meeting
consent agenda.
Charter Ordinance Amending Charter Ordinance 2015-20 to Change the Commencement
Date for Ottawa City Commissioner Term of Office
The Governing Body heard from City Attorney Blaine Finch, who presented a charter ordinance to
change the commencement date for the Ottawa City Commissioner Term of Office and included:
• The Governing Body requested that the commencement date be earlier than the current
January timeline
• Revisions to the commencement date need to be established by a charter ordinance
• The new ordinance proposed commencement date being the first week in December
• Requires a waiting period of 61 days after publication
The Governing Body agreed by consensus to place these items on the next Regular Meeting
consent agenda.
Distribution of Donation to Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund
The Governing Body received a generous donation of $2,000.00 from the Cosentino family. The
Governing Body discussed distribution and agreed by consensus to discuss this further at the
next study session.
City Manager's Comments
City Manager Brian Silcott updated the Governing Body on the upcoming agenda items.
Governing Body Comments
Commissioner Clayton highlighted the surrender of a baby in Indiana and suggested considering
a donation for the local program.
Announcements
A. December 18, 2023 – Study Session – 4:00 pm, City Hall
B. December 20, 2023 – Regular Meeting – 10:00 am, City Hall
C. December 22, 2023 – Retirement Reception for Fire Chief Tim Matthias – 2:00 – 4:00 pm,
Fire Station #1
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #7
Executive Session
Recess
Mayor Crowley made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Skidmore, to recess into executive
session for a period of 15 minutes, resuming at 6:00 pm with City Attorney Blaine Finch, Finance
Director Melanie Landis and City Manager Brian Silcott present for the purpose of attorney/client
consultation. The justification for the closed session is to engage in confidential and privileged
communication with the board’s attorney by K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(12). The motion was considered
and upon being put, all present voted aye. The Mayor declared the meeting duly recessed.
Reconvene
Mayor Crowley made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Clayton, to reconvene into open
session. The motion was considered and upon being put, all present voted aye. The Mayor
declared the meeting duly reconvened at 6:00 p.m.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Governing Body, the Mayor declared the
meeting duly adjourned at 6:00 p.m.
_________________________
Melissa Reed, City Clerk
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #8
Agenda Item: III.A
Back to Agenda
Common
Consumption
District
Ottawa Main Street Association
The River District
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #9
House Bill 2059
• Signed bill April 24, 2023
• Sec. 7. On and after July 1, 2023, K.S.A. 41-2659 is hereby amended to read
as follows: 41-2659. (a) (1) A city or a county may establish one or more
common consumption areas within the limits of the city or within the
unincorporated portion of the county, as applicable, by ordinance or
resolution, respectively, and authorize the possession and consumption of
alcoholic liquor or cereal malt beverage within the common consumption
area. The ordinance or resolution shall designate the boundaries of any
common consumption area and prescribe the times during which alcoholic
liquor or cereal malt beverage may be consumed therein. The ordinance or
resolution shallmay require that any public street or roadway that lies
within a common consumption area shall be blocked from motorized traffic
during the hours in which alcoholic liquor or cereal malt beverage is
consumed.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #10
Back to Agenda
• Restaurants, bars, and breweries within the district, as
well as vendors at special events within the district
boundaries, may serve alcoholic beverages that may be
carried out of the establishment and consumed within
the district.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #11
• The drink must be in a designated cup and the cup
can’t exceed 16 ounces and will be provided by a
participating business within the district.
• Times and days of the week would need to be
established.
• Example- 4PM-10PM Monday-Thursday and 10AM-
12AM Friday and Saturday
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #12
PROPOSED
Downtown
River District
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #13
Back to Agenda
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #14
Window Cling Examples
Independence, KS
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #15
Example:
Examples
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #16
Sidewalk Example:
RIVER DISTRICT
RIVER DISTRICT
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #17
Back to Agenda
Example in Rogers, AR.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #18
Q: Will drinks be allowed
during events like
Downtown Movie Night or
Trunk or Treat?
A: This would depend on the sponsor of
the event. The areas are blocked off and
can easily display signage “No district cups
beyond this point” or something to that
nature.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #19
I can’t give you one single
ordinance
I can’t change
give you that has
one single had a
ordinance
morethat
change positive benefit
has had a moreto our
positive
downtown
benefit vibe.
to our When vibe.
downtown people Whencan
exercisecan
people their freedoms
exercise their in Monroe,
freedoms in
theyMonroe,
tend totheymore fully
tend support
to more fullyour
businesses
support our while while
businesses moremorefully fully
enjoying
enjoyingthemselves.
themselves. As Asaamatter
matterofof
fact,our
fact, ourdowntown
downtown sales
sales during
during the
the first
first quarter
quarter of the of
yearthe year
beat ourbeat
local
our local As
WalMart. WalMart.
Mayors As Mayors
and City and
Council
Members,City it is
Council Members,
incumbent uponitallisof us
incumbent
to have upon all
a healthy of us to
downtown andhave
locala
healthy downtown
business community. We andwill
local
do
business community.
everything in our Wehelp
power, to will our
do
everything in
restaurants succeed,our which,
power,into help
turn, will
our restaurants
help their succeed,
neighboring which, in
businesses
turn, will help their neighboring
flourish.
businesses
FINALLY, due flourish.of open
to our relaxing
FINALLY, due to
containers within ourourelaxing of open
entertainment
containers within
district, we our
entertainment
have not had district,
one negative wewith
issue
have notlaw had one negative issue
enforcement.
with law enforcement.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #20
"Over the 10 years we've had
it, open container has helped
further the revitalization of
downtown Brunswick more
than most other incentives
and/or developments.
Bringing people outside, even
with a beer in hand, goes far
to indicate that the
downtown area is safe and
that something is going on
worth stopping for."
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #21
Back to Agenda
This ordinance change will let us be on
the forefront of change and offer a unique
experience for residents and visitors alike.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #22
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #23
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #24
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #25
Back to Agenda
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #26
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #27
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #28
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #29
Back to Agenda
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #30
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #31
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #32
Back to Agenda
Agenda Item: III.B
City of Ottawa
City Commission Study Session
December 18, 2023
TO: Mayor and City Commission
SUBJECT: Dog Licensing – Section 3-33 Municipal Code
INITIATED BY: City Clerk
AGENDA: Items for Presentation & Discussion
Recommendations: Review, comment on, and consider placing an Ordinance for changes to
the dog licensing related to Section 3-33 Municipal Code on the December 20, 2023 Regular
Meeting agenda .
Background: On October 28, 2013, during a Study Session, Prairie Paws Animal Shelter and
the Finance Department presented a partnership proposal to the Governing Body. The proposal
aimed to transfer the responsibility of dog registration to the shelter, allowing them to retain
associated fees. The Governing Body requested that a contract be drafted to clarify this proposal.
Subsequently, on November 4, 2013, a proposed contract for service between the City of Ottawa
and Prairie Paws Animal Shelter was reviewed during a Study Session. The Governing Body
agreed to place this on the next Regular Meeting agenda. An ordinance regulating the keeping of
animals, including revisions to dog licensing, was presented, and at the regular meeting on
November 6, 2013, the Governing Body approved the contract for licensing dogs with Prairie
Paws Animal Shelter. Ordinance No. 3861-13 was also approved, incorporating changes related
to the contract. Prairie Paws Animal Shelter has served as the licensing agent since 2013.
During the December 11, 2023 study session, Prairie Paws Animal Shelter (PPAS) initiated a
discussion item with the City Commission, putting forth a request to deliberate on the potential
elimination of pet licensing fees as currently stipulated. PPAS presented an alternative method
for fee structures. The City Commission expressed interest in further exploration and requested
that a draft ordinance be prepared for their review at the subsequent study session scheduled for
December 18, 2023.
Analysis: Prairie Paws Animal Shelter is proposing changes to the municipal dog licensing
code. The proposed changes include:
• An exemption for dog owners who have their pet microchipped, spayed/neutered, and
vaccinated against Rabies
• An increase in the registration fee from $8 to $15 for each sterilized male or female dog
• Maintenance of the $40 registration fee for unsterilized male or female dogs
• A provision stating that the fee does not exceed $5 per license for any organization
administering dog registration under a contract with the city
Continued
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #33
Financial Considerations: The City of Ottawa purchases dog tags for Prairie Paws Animal
Shelter. Analysis since 2021 indicates the following costs:
2023 – 600 tags for a cost of $176.28
2022 – 500 tags for a cost of $147.23
2021 – 1,100 tags for a cost of $254.89
In the past, Prairie Paws Animal Shelter (PPAS) offered a dog park tag option, with funds being
transferred to the City for dog park improvements.; however, this practice is no longer in place.
Legal Considerations: The proposed Ordinance has been drafted and approved as to form by
the City Attorney.
Recommendations/Actions: Review, comment on, and consider an Ordinance for changes to
the dog licensing related to Section 3-33 Municipal Code.
Next steps may include:
1. Discussion and direction to place this item on the December 20, 2023 Regular Meeting
Agenda; or
2. Direction for further research and clarification on the topic; or
3. Denial of the request.
Attachments: III.B.1 Ordinance
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #34
Back to Agenda
ORDINANCE NUMBER _________
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
CONCERNING FEES FOR REGISTRATION OF DOGS IN THE CITY OF OTTAWA,
KANSAS.
WHEREAS, the City of Ottawa requires dogs to be licensed in order to promote vaccinations,
spaying and neutering, and in order to be able to match lost animals to their owners; and,
WHEREAS, those aims can be more expeditiously accomplished where an owner voluntarily
engages in microchipping of their dog, vaccinations, and sterilization.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF
OTTAWA, KANSAS:
Section 1. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 3-303. Section 3-303 of the Municipal Code of the
City of Ottawa, 2015, is hereby amended as follows:
3-303. Registration fees; penalty.
Between January 1st and February 15th of each year, the dog owner shall register all dogs owned by
her/him and pay the following fees:
A. The registration fee shall be in the amount of $15.00 for each sterilized male or female dog
whose owners reside within the Corporate Limits of the City, provided that all dogs belonging to the
same household shall be registered in the name of the head of such household. Before a tag showing
payment of any fees for any sterilized dog, the owner of such animal shall present satisfactory
evidence of such fact by a certificate of a licensed veterinarian or by a statement verified by affidavit,
provided that such evidence may be permanently filed or entered in the book of registration.
B. A registration fee of $40.00 shall be collected for each unsterilized male or female dog whose
owners reside within the Corporate Limits of the City, provided that all unsterilized male or
female dogs appertaining to the same household shall be registered in the name of the head of such
household.
C. A fee not to exceed $5.00 per license for any organization administering dog registration under a
contract with the City.
D. An owner of a dog that meets the following conditions may be exempt from the requirements
for subsequent annual registration and affixing of dog tags under this Article, after the first such
registration, when:
1. the dog has been implanted with a unique and identifying microchip capable of being
read by an external reader owned by the organization administering dog registration
under a contract with the City;
2. the dog has been vaccinated for rabies; and
3. the dog has been sterilized and the owner has presented satisfactory evidence of
sterilization as defined in subsection A of this section.
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #35
E. Failure to register a dog residing within the corporate city limits shall be punishable in the
amount of $50.00 per dog, unless such animal is exempt under this section.
F. Sentence enhancement is appropriate refer to Sec. 3-331
Section 2. REPEAL.
All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Section 3. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall take effect upon publication in the official city newspaper.
ADOPTED by the Governing Body of the City of Ottawa on this _____ day of_______________,
2023.
____________________________________
Eric Crowley, Mayor
Attest:
_____________________________________
City Clerk
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #36
Agenda Item: III.C
City of Ottawa Back to Agenda
City Commission Study Session
December 18, 2023
TO: Mayor and City Commission
SUBJECT: Distribution of Donation to Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund
INITIATED BY: Executive Assistant to the City Manager
AGENDA: Items for Presentation & Discussion
Recommendations: Select recipient(s) for the $2,000 donation by Cosentino’s Price Chopper.
Background: In December 2018, Cosentino’s Price Chopper began sending an annual donation
for the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund. The funds have been distributed as follows. Received
formal request from ECKAN following discussion at December 11, 2023 study session.
• 2018 - $1,500 to ECKAN and $1,500 to Hope House
• 2019 - $1,500 to ECKAN and $1,500 to Hope House
• 2020 - $1,250 to ECKAN and $1,250 to Hope House
• 2021 - $2,000 to ECKAN
• 2022 - $2,000 to ECKAN
Analysis: N/A
Financial Considerations: No direct financial impact to the City. This is a passthrough
donation.
Legal Considerations: Approve as to form.
Recommendations/Actions: Select recipient(s) for presentation at December 20, 2023 Regular
Meeting.
Attachments: N/A
12.18.23 Agenda Pkt Page #37
Get email alerts for Ottawa
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.