Getting down to business, guest and local businessman Lee McClain had previously discussed zoning for his property at 102 West street as it was previously zoned as residential and it needed to be updated accordingly, according to the planning and zoning commission. He was advised it should be updated to industrial, however Councilman Denny Rich stated that a commercial rating would suffice. He went on to say that he had concerns that an industrial rating could cause issues in the future and wanted to keep it at commercial (C3).
The debate continued and during which, it was discovered there may be a conflict regarding maps and information regarding the property; Mayor Henry suggested tabling the discussion until verification can be made.
It was reported that the council is continuing its advocacy of the Student Advisory Committee and plans are in the works including a pickleball tournament, basketball tournament and more. Details to be revealed in coming weeks.
The Airport Commission is seeking bids for mowing and the search continues for an airport manager. It looks as though hangar rent may go up $25, which is still a great deal as other nearby airports are charging more. It was also reported that a contract with KC Skydive was renewed.
Councilman Tim Young commented that based on recent storms it is becoming increasingly obvious that stormwater management needs to be a priority. Mayor Henry stated that a stormwater study is incoming and it may hold the key to solving some of the issues.
Work will begin on replacing the culvert on Fort Scott street by the scout park. Since Fort Scott will be closed for awhile, it was decided earlier to postpone the work until school is out to avoid hampering bus traffic. Barring weather or other delays, the replacement should easily be done before school starts up this Fall. Low bid on the project was $223,207.54 which was budgeted.
A discuss was held regarding the Trail of Memories which runs through South Park and the hospital property in Butler. The project was originally maintained by a private group however, now is the responsibility of the city. Parks and Rec director Scott Bitner was given permission to order 10 trees to be placed along the trail that may be purchased for $300 by citizens to honor their loved ones. The purchase includes a plaque in their honor and benches with plaques will be available in the future as well. More details coming soon.
Permission was given to Trey Douty for the annual Show of Wheels car show to be held in the parking lot of the sheriff's facility at Orange and Lee streets. The show will extend south to including the RJ's property and permission to close Lee street for the day was given as no homes or driveways will be affected.
The city is in need of a new bucket truck and permission was granted to purchase a new one as prices aren't going down anytime soon. The old truck will get a rehab and serve as a service unit to pull the tree limb chipper. The new truck will either be purchased or most likely leased; details on pricing/plan to be revealed soon.
The Green Space on the southeast corner of the Butler square is nearing completion. Work to be done includes installation of a water hydrant and application of a special coating on the murals to help preserve them. Also, some cleanup work needs to be done behind and around the murals to conceal the framework.
It was also noted that an announcement regarding the hiring of a new city administrator is "coming soon" and Mid America Live will provide details as soon as they become available.
Remember, the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm at city hall and the public is highly encouraged to attend.
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