Guest Pat Simons presented several requests to council. He commented that when the water is turned on at a residence, the employees leave and sometimes it can leak. He also mentioned that it is an inconvenience that only one person can sign an account to turn on electricity and thought that this should change. Mayor Henry commented that he had talked to the utility clerk and thought that both could sign but he would get to the bottom of this. Simons also wondered why County Wide Disposal only picked up one item on the monthly pick-up day at apartment complexes instead of picking up for each tenant. He asked council to address this issue on the next contract. Mayor Henry noted that the monthly pick-up is solely at the discretion of the Sanitation company as they volunteer to do this and do not charge for this service.
Guest Marsha Youngblood announced that the Wall That Heals is coming to Bates County on April 30, 2026. She described what it is and where it will be held. She mentioned that three special benches are being made and will be placed on the city square in remembrance of three Bates County veterans who perished in the Vietnam War. She asked council for permission to hold the event at the North grassy area at Nursery and Orange Streets and asked for volunteers, trash service, porta potties, and electricity. Council members asked Mrs. Youngblood to get a list of the needs and bring it back to council. Motion by Rich, seconded by Mallatt to approve holding this event. Motion passed unanimously by ayes.
Councilman Scott Mallatt reported that the Planning Commission had met and had held a public meeting for a rezoning application presented by Charles Stump. The Commission voted to issue a Conditional Use Permit for 105 South Lyons and present this to council for their consideration. Following a public hearing, the council voted and unanimously agreed to issue the conditional use permit to Stump.
Councilman Denny Rich went over the key points of the Airport Commission meeting he had attended. They voted to approve the Capital Improvement Program Report for the terminal building with relocating the Orange Community Hangar. He announced that the fuel dispenser on the tank is finally working and that they are still looking for a manager. They requested the Codes Officer investigate and remove a travel trailer parked at the airport that is occasionally lived in. As of this writing, the Codes Officer did talk with the owner and it will be removed in the next three weeks.
Scott Mallatt informed council that the Parks & Recreation Commission was looking into establishing rules and regulations for the Trail of Memories. The Trail was originated by individuals who wanted a place for memorials to loved ones but are now all gone so it has become up to the city to maintain. He mentioned that the play structures are currently being constructed this week at Douglas Park. They will put the plaque back that was donated by Juanita Jacobs when it is finished.
Mallatt also called for a City Owned Facilities Meeting for the second council meeting in January at 6:00 p.m. They will discuss the Trail of Memories and the Old Highschool building and would like all members of council to be present.
Remember, the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend.
