City Commission

Regular Meeting Minutes City Hall Minutes of April 2, 2025 The Governing Body met at 7:00 p.m. on this date for the Regular City Commission Meeting, with the following members present and participating: Mayor Allen, Mayor Pro Tem Clayton, Commissioner Caylor, Commissioner Crowley and Commissioner Skidmore. Mayor Allen called the meeting to order. Mayor Allen welcomed the audience and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag. Pastor Terrance Robertson from Bethany Chapel Church gave the invocation. Public Comments No public comments were received. Appointments, Proclamations, Recognitions, Nominations and Public Hearings None. Consent Agenda Commissioner Crowley moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Clayton. The agenda included the minutes from the March 26, 2025 Regular Meeting and the Regular Meeting agenda. The motion was put to a vote, and all present voted in favor. The Mayor declared the consent agenda duly approved. Declaration None. Unfinished Business None. New Business Water Treatment Facility Plan Review The Governing Body heard from Utilities Director Snethen, who presented the findings of the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) Evaluation conducted by Professional Engineering Consultants (PEC). The study was commissioned to assess the current condition and capacity of the City’s water treatment infrastructure and recommend a long-term strategy to ensure sustainability and compliance. The following key points were discussed: • The existing WTF was constructed between 1978 and 1980 and many components have surpassed their expected operational lifespan. • The facility’s current rated capacity is 4.5 million gallons per day (MGD), with a projected maximum day demand of 2.61 MGD by 2044. Capacity is sufficient with upgrades. • Evaluation identified needed upgrades to treatment processes, including filter media replacement (analyzed in 2019 with like new condition assessment), automation of chemical feed systems, and improvements to the sludge lagoon system. • Structural concerns include concrete deterioration and corrosion in treatment basins, while modernization is needed for the electrical and control systems. • Two options were explored: April 2, 2025 1 City of Ottawa Regular Meeting Minutes April 2, 2025 Page 2 o Option 1: Phased upgrades to existing facility, extending its life by 15-20 years. Estimated total cost $7.7 to $10.9 million o Option 2: Planning for a new facility by 2045 or later. Estimated cost: $30 - 50 million (inflation-adjusted). Lower annual maintenance costs. • Option 1 offers lower upfront costs but requires continued investment and increased maintenance. • Option 2 provides long-term sustainability and operational efficiency but requires significant financial planning. City Manager Comments City Manager Silcott provided a concise update on the city’s utility right-of-way tree trimming program, highlighting the completion of Zones 1 and 2 and the forthcoming multi-year RFP for Zones 3 and 4. Manager Silcott acknowledged Ottawa student Agnes Lambert for her state-level achievement in the League of Kansas Municipality’s essay contest on the municipal airport. Operational highlights included substantial street maintenance and water utility repairs, along with staff participation in continuing education. Anticipated agenda items for the April 9th City Commission meeting include review of economic development incentives, amendments to the Common Consumption Area Ordinance, and a review of the City of Ottawa’s projected five-year housing needs as identified in the Franklin County Development Council’s 2030 Housing Needs Recommendations. Governing Body Comments Commissioner Caylor shared that her second-grade nephew, Owen, a student in Ms. Hansberry’s class in Greeley, Colorado, is participating in a Flat Stanley project to learn about different places around the world. As part of the project, Commissioner Caylor has been exploring Ottawa with Flat Stanley and sending photos back to his class. She expressed excitement that he was able to attend the City Commission Meeting and noted that Owen will have wonderful memories to share from his visit to Ottawa. The Commissioners also took a moment to discuss their favorite parts of the community. Commissioner Skidmore highlighted a recent Jewish Cedar Festival hosted by his church, calling it a great event. Mayor Pro Tem Clayton welcomed Flat Stanley and Owen and expressed hope that the experience would inspire him. He also congratulated Agnes on receiving an award and reminded the community about the upcoming citywide cleanup, noting that the Ottawa Main Street Association will host a downtown cleanup on April 19. Announcements A. April 2, 2025 City Commission Meeting – 7:00 pm, City Hall B. April 9, 2025 City Commission Meeting – 4:00 pm, City Hall C. April 16, 2025 City Commission Meeting – 10:00 am, City Hall D. April 23, 2025 City Commission Meeting – 4:00 pm, City Hall E. April 30, 2025 City Commission Meeting – 4:00 pm, City Hall Adjournment There was no further business before the Governing Body, the Mayor Pro Tem declared the meeting duly adjourned at 7:46 pm. /s/ Melissa Reed Melissa Reed, City Clerk April 2, 2025 2