City Commission

Regular Meeting Minutes City Hall Minutes of May 15, 2024 The Governing Body met at 10:00 am on this date for the Regular City Commission Meeting with the following members present and participating to wit: Mayor Skidmore, Mayor Pro Tem Allen, Commissioner Caylor, Commissioner Clayton and Commissioner Crowley. Mayor Skidmore called the meeting to order. Mayor Skidmore welcomed the audience, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag, and gave the invocation. Public Comments No public comments were received. Appointments, Proclamations, Recognitions, Nominations, and Public Hearings Recognition of Wynter Ziegler, Water Production, for her successful completion of the Kansas Rural Water Association’s Apprenticeship Program Monica Wurtz, Apprenticeship Program Coordinator, and Utilities Director Dan Riney commend Wynter Ziegler of Water Production for her outstanding achievement in completing the Kansas Rural Water Association’s Apprenticeship Program. Consent Agenda Commissioner Crowley made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Caylor, to approve this consent agenda to include minutes from the May 8, 2024 Regular Meeting, and the Regular Meeting agenda. The motion was considered, and upon being put, all present voted aye. The Mayor declared the consent agenda duly approved. Declaration No declarations were made. Unfinished Business New Business Review of 2025 Operating Budget Wastewater Fund The Governing Body heard from Finance Director Melanie Landis regarding the 2025 proposed Wastewater budget. Operations and capital improvements are funded through the collection of monthly user fees for services. Ms. Landis reviewed the following items: • The critical functions of wastewater were discussed, emphasizing its pivotal role in sanitation, water reclamation, and safeguarding public health • The current rate structure, adopted on January 18, 2023, through Resolution 1923-23, supports operations and capital improvements through monthly user fees • Revenue and expenditure trends were thoroughly examined to provide context for the proposed budgetary allocations May 15, 2024 1 City of Ottawa Regular Meeting Minutes May 15, 2024 Page 2 • Ms. Landis presented highlights from the revised 2024 budget, 2025 proposed budget, and 2026 projected budget offering a comprehensive overview of the fund • The 2025 Proposed Budget features key allocations, including a $140,000 backhoe replacement, a $50,000 increase for Inflow and Infiltration removal, $100,000 for replacement of the Pin Oak Pump Station, and $250,000 for treatment plant upgrades. Project Update The Governing Body heard from City Manager Brian Silcott, who provided an update on current capital projects and answered questions from the Commission regarding the projects. Presentation on Homelessness The Governing Body heard from Neighborhood and Community Services Director Lucas Neece who presented an overview of the local homelessness situation. Mr. Neece shared insights from his participation in the Kansas Statewide Homeless Coalition 2024 Summit in Lawrence, where he was accompanied by representatives from Blessing Box and Hope House in April 2024. The presentation highlighted the diverse challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness, ranging from precarious housing situations to chronic homelessness. Mr. Neece emphasized the need for a comprehensive community response that goes beyond temporary solutions, aiming to transition individuals from surviving to thriving. He outlined specific strategies and partnerships with existing organizations to address the needs of different homeless populations, including initiatives for subsidized housing, supportive services, and poverty alleviation programs. The presentation also mentioned opportunities for collaboration with national frameworks like Built for Zero to effectively tackle homelessness at the local level. City Manager’s Comments City Manager Brian Silcott updated the Governing Body on current projects. Governing Body Comments Commissioner Clayton acknowledged National Police Officers Remembrance Day and expressed gratitude to Director Neece for his efforts with the homeless coalition. Commissioner Caylor extended congratulations to Ottawa High School graduates and sent birthday wishes to her best friend. Mayor Pro Tem Allen informed the community about Overland Park Fire and Rescue's river training happening today. Mayor Skidmore commended the Police Chief for hosting a successful awards ceremony for the Police Department and praised the exceptional work of our officers. He also shared ongoing efforts with the Franklin County Development Council for a sister city partnership and mentioned delivering a proclamation to Mary McMahon last week honoring her 104th birthday. Announcements A. May 20, 2024 City Commission Goal Setting – 4:30 pm, City Hall B. May 22, 2024 City Commission Meeting – 4:00 pm, City Hall May 15, 2024 2 City of Ottawa Regular Meeting Minutes May 15, 2024 Page 3 C. May 29, 2024 City Commission Meeting – 4:00 pm, City Hall Adjournment There was no further business before the Governing Body, the Mayor declared the meeting duly adjourned at 11:23 am. /s/ Melissa Reed Melissa Reed, City Clerk May 15, 2024 3