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City Meetings

REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING

MARCH 6, 2023

Mayor Rob Lessen opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was stated by all present. The roll call was taken, and all members of the City Council were present. The minutes from the previous meeting were presented to the City Council. Gary Pommier made the motion to approve the minutes. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. The mayor presented the evenings agenda. Richard Kerley made the motion to approve the agenda as presented. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Appropriation Ordinance #2 was presented for approval. Bob Lauck questioned the reason why Crozier's bill was under office supplies. Bette stated that yes, she will correct this line item. Howard questioned paying mileage plus overtime for the officer going to school. Also, a question on Jim Zibert's bill was answered. Carma Burns made the motion to approve payment on Appropriation Ordinance #2. Bob Lauck seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

REPORTS:

POLICE CHIEF REPORT

John Austin handed out his monthly written report to the City Council and went over the statics.

SUPERINTENDENT

Tom Gorman handed out his monthly report to the City Council. Tom addressed the quote from Vermeer, but Rob Lessen felt that Tom should have another quote, so he asked the Council to return the paperwork to Tom to keep the first bid concealed.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

STREETER, TENNIS/PICKLE BALL COURT

Dr. Streeter handed out a price on materials but with the expense and then later finding out that the school can handle this project it would be a better way to spend the money. The project will begin after school is out in May. Carma Burns made the motion to reimburse the school half of the expense. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved for $4,560.00.

BALL GROUND SALARY

Gary Pommier stated that the requested salary by JP Cleland is $6000.00 for the season. This would be an annual contract. Gary Pommier made the motion to pay the groundskeeper an annual salary of $6,000.00. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

MINI-EXCAVATOR.

Tom Gorman reviewed the leash options with the City Council from the paperwork he had handed out. The council felt that there should be a second quote. Tom told the Council that the excavator will be in Arma on the 14th so that they can see it if they like for a demonstration.

201 W. SOUTH STREET PROPERTY

Bette Lessen brought this topic back up for discussion on how property is being handled. Bette stated that she understood someone has an attorney and this person is in contact with Tom Hayes, the City's attorney? Tom confirmed but did not have any new news to share.

BRENDA BANKS/JIM ZIBERT; LIBRARY BUILDING

Brenda Banks reported that the library has sent out letters to the residents for the grant application. Brenda reviewed the deadlines with the Council. Jim Zibert was questioned on the expense. Jim stated that he would compile paperwork to give to the City Council.

DANGEROUS STRUCTURES

The list from the Feb. 20 meeting was brought back up. Tom Hayes stated that he needs more information than was given to him to send out letters to the owners of these properties. Bette reviewed how the Ordinance for Dangerous Structures works. The City Council would like the Fire Chief and the Police Chief to inspect these 16 properties and then have them report back to the Council. Gary Pommier made the motion and Bob Lauck seconds. The motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS

KMEA BOARD APPOINTMENTS

Bette Lessen stated that the Director #1 which Rob Lessen holds comes up for re-appointment as of April 15th. Gary Pommier made the motion to re-appoint Rob Lessen as Director #1. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Then Richard Kerley made the motion to appoint Gary Pommier as the Alternate. Bob Lauck seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT

Two bids were received, Girard National Bank bid 1.7654, and Community National Bank bid 1.97. Richard Kerley made the motion to go with CNB. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CITY WIDE SPRING CLEAN-UP

The City Council determines that April 24 through the 28th will be the week for the cleanup.

2023 STREET PAVING PROJECT

Tom Gorman is still waiting to speak with Randy Chiartano on what the county can do. Gary Pommier brought up the issue of this year's budget for paving, which is 64,800.00 which the previous years were set at 80,000.00. Gary asked if he could have a conversation with our CPA on changing the current budget. The council did not have an issue with Gary contacting the CPA.

2023 CITY LIABILITY INSURANCE

The agent will have a quote for the next meeting.

ARMA CITY POOL

A letter was submitted to the City Council on what Pool Manager, Piper Richardson would like to have updated, such as an increase in Lifeguard salaries to 10.00 an hour, reimbursing the lifeguards for certification at the end of the swim season and to hire an Assistant Manager at 10.00 an hour. Richard Kerley made the motion to approve all of Piper's requests. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved, Carma Burns abstained from the vote.

WELL ELECTRIC PROBLEM

Tom Gorman reported on the East well not working due to a bad motor and/or connection. Gary Pommier made the motion to allow the repairs to the east well for $12,720.00. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

ELECTRICAL SURVEY PROPOSAL

Tom Gorman addressed the work that could be done so that all the lines and transformers are in proper working condition, but the city electrician does not feel this is a feasible study. Carma Burns stated that KMEA had made know that they have equipment such as these infrared camera's that can be borrowed and used for no cost.

MIKE LOVE; LIVING FAITH CHURCH

Bette Lessen reported that Mike Love sent Vanessa an email requesting to give food and supplies to folks at the library this month. Brenda Banks was present and stated that she would manage this.

Two student nurses were present to ask the City Council about the wellbeing of the residents of Arma.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Gary Pommier reported on the cooler for the ballpark that the Rec. Association is purchasing and the City is donating 500.00.

Bob Lauck discussed the issue of a city wide trash service in Arma.

Carma Burns brought up Arma Homecoming and the work that is getting done by the board members.

Howard Camp reported on SEKRPC meeting he and Tom were to attend they could not make due to a schedule change.

Rob Lessen reported on the activity on E. Hector at the trailer park. Trash and debris are being left. The city needs to keep on top in this matter.

COMMUNICATIONS

None were present.

PURCHASE REQUEST

None were present.

Carma Burns made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:45 p.m. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

___________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MARCH 20TH, 2023

FIRE STATION

1) CALL TO ORDER

2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3) ROLL CALL

4) MINUTES

5) AGENDA

REPORTS: FIRE CHIEF

LIBRARIAN

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A) MINI EXCAVATOR

B) 2023 CITY LIABILITY INSURANCE

NEW BUSINESS

A) COMMUNICATION TOWER; TIM MIKURT & JIM EMERSON

B) ROBERT SNARE; ZONING BOARD MEMBER

C) JOHN AUSTIN; PAY INCREASE WM. DEAN

D) CHRISTMAS DECORATION

6) COUNCIL COMMENTS

7) COMMUNICATIONS

8) PURCHASE REQUEST

9) ADJOURN

NEXT MEETING APRIL 3RD

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MARCH 6TH, 2023

1) CALL TO ORDER

2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3) ROLL CALL

4) MINUTES

5) AGENDA

6) APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE #2

REPORTS: POLICE CHIEF

SUPERINTENDENT

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A) STREETER; TENNIS/PICKLE BALL COURT

B) BALL GROUND SALARY

C) MINI EXCAVATOR, PUBLIC WORKS

D) 201 W SOUTH ST PROPERTY

E) BRENDA BANKS/JIM ZIBERT; LIBRARY BUILDING

F) DANGEROUS STRUCTURES

NEW BUSINESS

A) KMEA BOARD APPOINTMENTS

B) CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT BIDS

C) CITY WIDE SPRING CLEAN-UP DATE

D) 2023 STREET PAVING PROJECT

E) 2023 CITY LIABILITY INSURANCE

F) ARMA CITY POOL, 2023

G) WELL ELECTRICAL PROBLEM

H) ELECTRICAL SURVEY PROPOSAL

I) MIKE LOVE; LIVING FAITH CHURCH

7) COUNCIL COMMENTS

8) COMMUNICATIONS

9) PURCHASE REQUEST

10) ADJOURN

Next meeting: March 20th; Fire Station

SPECIAL MEETING

JANUARY 23, 2023

Mayor Rob Lessen opened the Special meeting at 6:00 p.m. Pledge of allegiance was stated by all present. Roll call was taken and all the members were present. The Mayor stated that the reason for the special meeting is to discuss the Westland Acres development as well as go over the employee evaluations.

Tom Gorman and Jim Zibert, the engineer was both present to present the hand outs on developing this tract of land. Council discussed the process of the road, Meadowlark Street and the utilities, electric, gas, water and sewer into the commercial district. Richard Kerley stated that with his past work history with the Kansas Gas Service he would make contact with them to get more information on developing the gas service to this area. Rob Lessen felt that the Council should work on the financing of this development and where money will be obtainable.

Carma Burns threw out the question about making the residential area into a solar farm. The question on whether the City has enough acreage required might be a problem, but the answer will not be known until the question is asked. SO First item is to locate funds for the road work in developing Meadowlark Street and Two Gary Pommier will get with Tom Gorman and Chuck Burns on the utility expense in the commercial area of Westland Acres as well as street lighting and also check into the cost of ground level transformers.

Gary Pommier made the motion to go into executive session for 30 minutes with Public Works director Tom Gorman then 30 minutes with Police Chief John Austin and then 30 minutes with City Clerk Bette Lessen to review the employees evaluation forms in each department. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. 7:00 p.m.

Gary Pommier made the motion to go back into regular session at 8:30 p.m. Howard Camp seconds the motion. Motion was approved. The following salary increases were determined:

Tom Gorman, Duane Fleury, and Kevin Goodwin will receive $1.25 an hour increase.

Chuck Burns will receive $2.06 an hour increase.

Pete Stewart will receive $2.50 an hour increase.

Vanessa Kent will receive $1.50 an hour increase.

Bette Lessen, John Austin, and William Dean will receive $1.25 an hour increase.

John Moutz will receive $1.25 increase once he returns from his 14-week training in

Hutchinson.

Brody Clark and Cory Strong will receive $1.00 an hour increase.

Part-Time Officers will receive a $3.00 an hour increase.

Motion was made by Gary Pommier to approve all salary increases stated above. Howard Camp seconds the motion. Carma Burns abstained from the vote. The motion was approved.

Bob Lauck made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:37 p.m. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

__________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk

REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING

JANUARY 16, 2023

Mayor Rob Lessen opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was stated by all present. The roll call was taken and all members of the City Council were present. The minutes from the previous meeting were presented to the City Council. Carma Burns stated that under Employee Evaluations topic to table, Carma stated that she abstained from the vote. Also, Carma addressed the time for the Special Meeting. In the minutes it shows 6:30 but was the motion for 6:00 p.m.? Bette Lessen stated that yes, the time to begin the Special Meeting is 6:00 and that is will be corrected. Richard Kerley made the motion to accept the corrected minutes. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. The mayor presented the evenings agenda. Howard Camp requested to add John Austin to Item E) Employee Evaluations. Also, under Unfinished Business Item H) Bids on 201 W. South St as added. Gary Pommier made the motion to accept the revised agenda. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

REPORTS

FIRE CHIEF:

Mike Mcleod was present to report on first Chuck Burns resigning his position on the fire Dept as well as the Assistant Fire Chief Justin Turner due to family issues. Mike reviewed the monthly report with the City Council.

LIBRARIAN:

Brenda Banks was not present.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

OPEN COUNCIL POSITION

Rob Lessen stated that there had been two Arma residents who submitted applications, but one pulled his. So, Rob introduced Robert Lauck to the City Council so that he could introduce himself. Following Robert's presentation, Rob recommended to the City Council to accept Mr. Lauck as the new Council member. Carma Burns made the motion to approve Bob Lauck as the new member of the City Council. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Bette Lessen then swore in Bob.

DR STREETER; TENNIS/PICKLE BALL COURT

Ray Streeter was present to inform the City Council about the most recent school board meeting on this topic. With the expense and other projects going on the board tabled their decision. Ray did state that he had spoken to another Superintendent who has worked with some maintenance folks who do work like this on the side and might be more reasonable. Ray will be speaking with them and getting back with the City Council later.

FULL TIME PUBLIC EMPLOYEE

Tom Gorman reported that working this person as a part-time employee still does not get us out of paying the KPERS side for the city so Jamie Setina said he would be happy to work part-time up to the 25,000.00. Gary Pommier made the motion to hire Jamie Setina as a part-time employee at $17.00 an hour with no benefits, up to $25,000.00. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

OPEN BURNING REGULATIONS

All members of the City Council agreed that the current article on open burning is fine, no changes are needed.

EMPLOYEE EVALUATIONS

Tom Gorman stated that he had handed in his evaluations to the Council a month ago. The Police evaluations were handed out at the previous meeting. Tom Hayes recommended that the Council hold a Special Meeting to discuss the evaluations. Gary Pommier made the motion to add the Employee Evaluations topic to the Special Meeting on Jan. 23rd along with the Westland Acers development. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Carma Burns abstained from the vote. Motion was approved.

ORDINANCE 638, RAISING CHICKENS

Gary Pommier made the motion to approve Ordinance 638. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Bob Lauck abstained from the vote due to lack of information.

HOWARD CAMP; JOHN AUSTIN

Howard Camp stated that due to illness he was unable to attend the last meeting, but Howard stated that he felt John Austin should be hired as Arma's next Police Chief. With further discussion the Council felt they should wait until the Feb 6th meeting to manage this issue.

Richard Kerley made the motion to pay John Austin the Chief's salary and to begin this January 1st. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

201 W SOUTH ST. BIDS

Rob Stated that there was one bid received from Vilela Demolition. Council held further discussion on this matter. Carma Burns made the motion to have the Mayor and Bob Lauck investigate securing the house with this person who the mayor spoke with and to have them attend the Feb. 6th meeting. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Richard Kerley made the motion to reject all bids on 201 W. South St. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS

FRISBEE GOLF STATION

Tom Gorman presented prices on the frisbee gold equipment, with a total in cost for 9 holes at $4,000.00. Gary Pommier made the motion to accept the 3959.92 with Tom's approval. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Tom Hayes stated that there is a company in Emporia that is one of the original companies in frisbee golf Tom might want to check with.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Gary Pommier was happy with the daily work of the city employees. Bob Lauck also stated his appreciation to the staff. Bob also asked about other properties that he has seen while driving around Arma. Bette Lessen stated that back when Buddy Bualle was Mayor the Council would hold a special meeting to discuss properties in Arma. Carma Burns continued the topic of housing in Arma. Richard Kerley brought up the desire to take care of business a little more quickly than tabling issues from one meeting to the next. Council agreed.

COMMUNICATIONS

None were presented.

PURCHASE REQUEST

Gary Pommier made the motion to allow all the requested materials that were requested. (6' Ripper box blade, $1,350.00) (Greenlee 24" Pulling Sheave, $946.96; Greenlee 3" conduit feeding sheave, $390.86) Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Bob Lauck made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

________________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

FEBRUARY 6th, 2023

1) CALL TO ORDER

2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3) ROLL CALL

4) MINUTES

5) AGENDA

6) APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE #1

REPORTS: POLICE CHIEF

SUPERINTENDENT

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A) POLICE CHIEF APPLICATIONS

B) WATER TOWER REPAIR

C) WEST STREET KDOT PROJECT

NEW BUSINESS

A) DANGEROUS STRUCTURE'S

B) PRESIDENTS DAY; FEB. 20TH (NEXT CITY MEETING)

C) BALL GROUNDS KEEPER

D) BALL PARK COOLER

7) COUNCIL COMMENTS

8) COMMUNICATIONS

9) PURCHASE REQUEST

10) ADJOURN

NEXT MEETING FEBRUARY 20TH/21ST

6:30 P.M.

JANUARY 3, 2023

Mayor Rob Lessen opened the meeting at 6:30 P.M. The Pledge of Allegiance was stated by all present. Roll was taken and Howard Camp was absent. The minutes were presented to the City Council. Gary Pommier made the motion to approve the minutes. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Rob presented the evenings agenda. Under Unfinished Business Item G) Dr. Streeter - Tennis Courts and Item H) New Council member was added. Under New Business Item C) Ad for Police Chief position as added. Gary Pommier made the motion to approve the revised agenda. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

REPORTS

POLICE CHIEF: John Austin handed out his monthly report to the City Council.

SUPERINTENDENT: Tom Gorman handed out his written report and went over the details with the Council.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

EMPLOYEE EVALUATIONS

Mayor requested this topic to be tabled until a full council was present. Gary Pommier made the motion to table until the next meeting. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

FULL TIME PUBLIC WORKS POSITION

Tom Gorman brought up the topic to hire a person who is currently collecting KPERS as retirement. Gary Pommier made the motion to go into executive session for 10 minutes with the Mayor, Council, Attorney, Clerk and Superintendent to consult with the City Attorney. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved at 6:51 p.m.

Carma Burns made the motion to go back into regular session at 7:00 p.m. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Gary Pommier made the motion to table this topic until the next meeting. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

ORDINANCE 638 RAISING CHICKENS

Gary Pommier made the motion to table this topic until the full council was present. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

SILVERSTREAM ASST MGMT. PROGRAM

Tom Gorman reviewed with the City Council about what Silverstream can do for Arma with the underground utilities. Rob Lessen stated that he agreed with Tom's proposal. Richard Kerley made the motion to approve this project. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

OPEN BURNING REGULATIONS

Justin Turner was present to answer any questions that the Council might have dealing with his revisions on Article 3 in the City Code manual. Discussion was held on a few issues, but the council chose to wait to the next meeting to take any action.

WESTLAND ACERS ROAD/UTILITIES

Tom Gorman stated that he would like to hold a Special Meeting on January 23rd to discuss the development of the east side of Westland Acers. Gary Pommier made the motion to hold the special meeting on Jan 23rd at 6:30. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

STREETER; TENNIS/PICKLE BALL COURTS

Dr. Streeter went over the paperwork that the Council received from the 2 bids that the school board got on improvements/renovations to the current tennis courts. Dr. Streeter stated that the school board would be discussing these bids and he will return to the Council at their next meeting with updates.

NEW COUNCIL MEMBER

The mayor opened discussion on the open Council position. Council agreed that anyone interested in the position should submit their resume and letter of interest to the City Clerk by the 13th for the next meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

PUBLIC WORKS CELL PHONE

Tom Gorman brought up that his cell phone is very old a I-7 and he would like to investigate purchasing a newer phone. Tom also brought up the Police cell phone that could be updated. Ob Lessen recommended the Tom get the new phone/plan. Gary Pommier made the motion to allow the upgrade. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

YEARLY LANDBANK REPORT

City Clerk Bette Lessen reported to the City Council that they currently have 3 properties in Arma that are in the City's landbank. 201 W. Perry, 316 S Pine and 506 S. 4th.

AD FOR POLICE CHIEF POSITION

City Council discussed the open position and how to go about advertising. Gary Pommier felt that the ad should be in the Morning Sun, the Girard Press, and the Ft Scott Tribune. Bette and John Austin will work on the ad and get it published. Gary Pommier made the motion to follow the recommendation above. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Rob Lessen announced the 8 winners in this year's Christmas Light Contest.

Gary Pommier would like to see the City's Christmas decorations revamped. Carma Burns felt a Special Meeting in March should be held to discuss the City's lights.

COMMUINCATIONS

None were presented.

PURCHASE REQUEST

John Austin requested new tires for one of the vehicles for $663.32. Richard Kerley made the motion to allow the purchase. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Carma Burns made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:55 p.m. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

__________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JANUARY 16th, 2023

1) CALL TO ORDER

2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3) ROLL CALL

4) MINUTES

5) AGENDA

REPORTS: FIRE CHIEF

LIBRARIAN

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A) OPEN COUNCIL POSITION

B) STREETER; TENNIS/PICKLE BALL COURT

C) FULL TIME PUBLIC WORKS POSITION; TOM GORMAN

D) OPEN BURING REGULATIONS

E) EMPLOYEE EVALUATIONS; TOM GORMAN

F) ORDINANCE 638, RAISING CHICKENS

G) HOWARD CAMP; JOHN AUSTIN

NEW BUSINESS

A) FRISBEE GOLF STATION; TOM GORMAN

6) COUNCIL COMMENTS

7) COMMUNICATIONS

8) PURCHASE REQUEST

9) ADJOURN

NEXT MEETING FEBRUARY 6TH

6:30 P.M.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JANUARY 3RD, 2023

1) CALL TO ORDER

2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3) ROLL CALL

4) MINUTES

5) AGENDA

6) APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE #12

REPORTS: POLICE CHIEF

SUPERINTENDENT

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A) EMPLOYEE EVALUATIONS

B) FULL TIME PUBLIC WORKS POSITION

C) ORDINANCE 638, RAISING CHICKENS

D) SILVERSTREAM ASSET MGMT. PROGRAM

E) OPEN BURING REGULATIONS

F) WESTLAND ACERS ROAD/UTILITIES

NEW BUSINESS

A) PUBLIC WORKS CELL PHONE

B) YEARLY LANDBANK REPORT

7) COUNCIL COMMENTS

8) COMMUNICATIONS

9) PURCHASE REQUEST

10) ADJOURN

NEXT MEETING JANUARY 3RD

6:30 P.M.

DECEMBER 5, 2022

President of the Council, Rob Lessen opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance was stated by all present. Roll call was taken and the Mayor Rock Anderson was absent. The minutes from the previous meeting were presented. Carma Burns stated that the rates were not on salaries but insurance rates that needed to be corrected. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Carma made the motion to accept the revised minutes. Gary Pommier seconds. The motion was approved. Under Agenda a change on Unfinished Business Item E) should be Insurance Rates and under New Business Item C) Garage Heater in old Fire Station was added. Gary Pommier made the motion to approve the revised agenda. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Appropriation Ordinance #11 was brought forward by Carma Burns. Carma made the motion to approve Ordinance #11 for payment. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

REPORTS

Police Chief report; A written report was handed out to the Council. Howard Camp read aloud the report since Chief Holtz was not present.

Tom Gorman City Superintendent was present to go over his monthly report. Tom Hayes had not sent Charles Vilia the letter but would have it out this week.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

HOOKIE POND GRANT

Tom Gorman reported on the 13,787.91 grant and that the City's portion is 4,595.97. KS Wildlife and Parks awarded the grant to Arma. Gary Pommier made the motion to table this issue. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

UTILITY RATE INCREASE

Bette Lessen went over the information provided to the City Council on the 2021 and the 2022 periods for Electric, Water and Sewer. Bette stated that Water and Sewer should be considered for a rate hike for 2023. Rob Lessen stated that the members should review this information and continue discussion at the next meeting. Richard Kerley made the motion to table this topic until Dec. 19th meeting. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CHICKEN REGULATIONS

Brenda Banks addressed the Council that she was in favor of allowing folks in Arma to raise chickens in their backyards. Brenda also volunteered to take care of any chickens that were deemed in harms way or running loose. Tom Hayes stated that he had reviewed other City's regulations on chickens and these regulations follow them. Gary Pommier made the motion to adopt the regulations and to have the City Attorney present a City Ordinance on owning/raising chickens in Arma. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

SCOTTEN TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION/PERMANENT MAINTENANCE EASEMENT

Jim Zibert had revised the previous easement for the Council. At this point Tommy Scotten has not seen the new easement so he will need to review and agree to before the mayor signs the easement. Richard Kerley made the motion to table until Tommy Scotten has reviewed and approved. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

INSURANCE RATES

Carma Burns wanted to go over the cost for each division so that the public watching the streaming will know the amounts instead of speculating. Carma read out aloud the rates.

ARTICLE 3-OPEN BURNING

At the previous meeting the Fire Chief and Assist Chief presented a revised article 3 to the Council. City Council discussed the changes and additions to the current article but at the end the decision was to not take any action of this issue.

NEW BUSINESS

BEER LICENSE

Bette Lessen stated that Dollar General has submitted their paperwork for a 2023 Beer License. Richard Kerley made the motion to allow the 2023 license. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

EMPLOYEE CHHRISTMAS DONATION

Bette Lessen stated that in the previous years the City Council has given the employees an extra day or half a day for Christmas. Howard Camp made the motion to give Dec. 23rd with pay to each full-time employee. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved by Gary Pommier, Howard Camp and Richard Kerley. Carma Burns and Rob Lessen abstained from voting.

GARAGE HEATER

Tom Gorman stated that the heater unit in the old fire station is not working correctly. Tom asked Aaron Croizer to look at the unit. Aaron reported that a new unit should be installed for a cost of $2,578.80 along with a 1-year maintenance and parts agreement plus a 10-year exchange. Richard Kerley made the motion to have Tom Gorman get 2 more estimates for the next meeting. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Gary Pommier stated that he appreciated the employees help and honesty.

Carma Burns stated that she had contacted the KS League of Municipalities and spoke to the attorney on the matter of she and Rob Lessen being married to employees of the City and she and Rob's participation when voting on issues such as health insurance. Carma stated that they are allowed to vote because this is a group issue not an individual issue. Carma was also told anytime a question arises please call the League.

Rob Lessen addressed the matter of picking up trash and that there will be a Christmas Light contest this year so get your house decorated.

COMMUNICATIONS

Carma Burns made the motion to accept and approve all communications and to have them placed in file. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

PURCHASE REQUEST

Carma Burns made the motion to allow the requested items Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Gary Pommier made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:45 p.m. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk

REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING

NOVEMBER 21, 2022

President of the Council Rob Lessen opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was stated by all present. Roll call was taken and all members except the Mayor Rock Anderson were present. Minutes from the meeting on the 7th were presented to the City Council. Carma Burns addressed the topic of Electric Rates and Carma thought that the Council tabled this matter until a later date. Carma made the motion to approve the revised minutes. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Richard Kerley made the motion to approve the minutes at the Special Meeting held on Nov. 14th. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved. Rob Lessen presented the evenings agenda to the City Council. Under New Business Item D) Police Raises, and Item E) Craig Farnsworth were added to the agenda. Howard Camp made the motion to approve the revised agenda. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

REPORTS

FIRE CHIEF: Mike McLeod was present with Assistant Fire Chief Justin Turner. Justin addressed the current "Open Burning Regulation" in the City Codes manual. Justin presented changes in sections 7-302, 7-304, 7-305a, 7-305b, 7-305c, 7-305d, and 7-305e. Bette Lessen stated that this change request would first need to go to the Zoning Board.

(This topic will be on the next agenda due to this matter is under the City Codes Manual, not Zoning). Mike and Justin also brought up the need to purchase 2 Imaging Camera's which help when fighting a fire in a structure. The expense for this purchase is $6998.00 for 2 camera's. Carma Burns made the motion to allow the purchase and Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

LIBRARIAN: Brenda Banks was present to report on the statistics of the previous month on checked out books and computer use plus exercise classes on Saturday's at 1:00 p.m. and classes in Insurance. Brenda also stated that a grant has been awarded for 2 new computers.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

WATER/SEWER EMPLOYEE; TOM GORMAN

Tom stated that he has placed the ad in the Morning Sun and that he has spoken to one individual who has the certification in Sewer that would make a good addition to the staff. Council asked Tom if this person would be willing to get certified in Water? Tom stated yes. Council asked Tom what he felt the starting wage should be and Tom recommended $17.50. Gary Pommie made the motion to accept Tom Gorman's recommendation for $17.50 an hour. Tom Hayes recommended that job parameters should be written for both water/sewer employee as well as the part-time electrician.

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN; GARY POMMIER

Gary Pommier stated that this person he has spoken with is willing to assist our city electrician when needed as a part time employee that has no benefits. Gary brought up salary when this person is needed, and with his experience Gary felt that he should be paid the same as the city electrician or set at 20.00 an hour plus when called out whether it is 15 minutes or 6 hours, he will be paid at least for one hour of time. Gary Pommier made the motion to hire this person at $20.00 an hour with a minimum of one hour and called out by either the city electrician or the city superintendent. Carma Burns seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

RESOLUTION 2022-0104; 201 W. SOUTH STREET

Rob Lessen stated that he has not spoke or heard from anyone interested in saving this property. Gary Pommier made the motion to accept Resolution 2022-0104. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

ELECTRIC RATE CHANGE

Carma Burns made the motion to table this topic until the next agenda. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CHICKEN REGULATIONS

Richard Kerley brought up the Zoning regulations under Conditional Use, Article 19, Sections 101 - 102- 104 that would need to be revised or deleted from the manual if Chickens were allowed to be raised inside the City limits. Carma Burns made the motion to table this topic until the next meeting. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

EASEMENT ON SCOTTEN PROPERTY

Jim Zibert was present to inform the City Council that the paperwork he has read needs to have a revision on the 10' easement and a temporary section included. Richard Kerley made the motion to have Jim Zibert make the revisions to the easement paperwork. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Bette Lessen interrupted the meeting to ask the City Council to revise their agenda so that Mr. Bobby Burns who Bette forgot to include could be on this meetings agenda. Carma Burns made the motion to include Bobby Burns under New Business. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS

SHAWN MCGREGOR, ISSUES ON CITY WEBSITE

Shawn McGregor addressed the City Council on his letter he wrote to them about different issues he feels should be corrected on the city's website particularly the matter of posting the agenda and the city minutes so the residents of Arma can be kept informed. Richard Kerley questioned Shawn why the agenda and minutes needs to be on the website. Shawn stated that this is the best means for ADA people to keep informed as Council discussed earlier on when deciding to update the City's website. Richard Kerley made the motion to have these two items posted on the city website per meeting. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT BIDS

Rob Lessen opened and read aloud the two bids received from the two banks. Girard National bid 1.26% and Community National at 1.39%. Carma Burns made the motion to accept the bid from Community National 1.39% Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

POLICE RAISES

Chief Holtz addressed the council on a 5% increase for all officers. Carma Burns brought up evaluations. Carma Burns made the motion to table this matter until the December 19th meeting Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CRAIG FARNSWORTH

Gary Pommier made a motion to go into Executive Session on Attorney Privilege with City Council, Attorney and Clerk for 5 minutes. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. 8:05 p.m.

Carma Burns made the motion to go back into regular session at 8:10 p.m. Richard Kerley made the motion to have the City Attorney send Craig Farnsworth a 2nd letter allowing him to make his payment by December 15th. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

BOBBY BURNS

Mr. Bobby Burns addressed the City Council on the issue of three properties that his father owned. Mr. Burns state that they are in bad condition and Bobby asked the City if they would tear down the structures and take the property? Tom Hayes told Mr. Burns that he and his sibling could draw up paperwork with property descriptions and turn all three of these properties over the city's landbank. Mr. Burns said that he would get this done.

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Gary Pommier reported on this years paving project and that it did not look like at this point that the County would be able to assist Arma.

Carma Burns said that the Council should discuss the employee rates at the next meeting.

COMMUNICATIONS

No communications were presented.

PURCHASE REQUEST

Assistant Police Chief John Austin presented a request for different types of ammo for the department to do training at Bone Creek. ACI quoted a total of $2,384.00. Richard Kerley made the motion to purchase the ammo requested. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Tom Gorman requested a water pump for the quoted price of $6,777.00. Gary Pommier made the motion to authorize the Mayor/President of City Council to handle this purchase with Tom Gorman. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

Carma Burns made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 p.m. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

_______________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk

REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING

NOVEMBER 21, 2022

REPORTS

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

WATER/SEWER EMPLOYEE; TOM GORMAN

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN; GARY POMMIER

RESOLUTION 2022-0104; 201 W. SOUTH STREET

ELECTRIC RATE CHANGE

Carma Burns made the motion to table this topic until the next agenda. Richard Kerley seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

CHICKEN REGULATIONS

EASEMENT ON SCOTTEN PROPERTY

NEW BUSINESS

SHAWN MCGREGOR, ISSUES ON CITY WEBSITE

CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT BIDS

POLICE RAISES

CRAIG FARNSWORTH

Gary Pommier made a motion to go into Executive Session on Attorney Privilege with City Council, Attorney and Clerk for 5 minutes. Howard Camp seconds the motion. The motion was approved. 8:05 p.m.

BOBBY BURNS

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Gary Pommier reported on this years paving project and that it did not look like at this point that the County would be able to assist Arma.

Carma Burns said that the Council should discuss the employee rates at the next meeting.

COMMUNICATIONS

No communications were presented.

PURCHASE REQUEST

Carma Burns made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 p.m. Gary Pommier seconds the motion. The motion was approved.

_______________________________

Bette Lessen, City Clerk