All members present for the September 1st session
Butler city Administrator Mark Mathies reported that efforts to further beautify Butler are beginning to pay off as council members and citizens are taking notice as well. A few weeks back, Mathies began the push to repaint crosswalks, remove/trim trees and brush hazards along right-of-ways as well as 'unburying' sidewalks are hidden under decades of dirt and grass.
Butler businessman Lance Sargent approached the council regarding a parcel of property that has an unusual problem- no street address. The problem began many years ago when a previous owner divided the property, leaving a garage/shop type structure without a street address. At this time, plans are to use the building primarily for storage and at some point in the distant future it may be turned into a home, thus creating a need either way, for a street address. More about the situation was discussed in closed session with the outcome to be revealed in an upcoming open session.
The old Butler High School, which is city owned property, has been a hot topic for some time as the structure is in dire need of repairs. At this juncture, attempts are being made to sell the building so the new owner can tailor it to their needs while making necessary said repairs. Other considerations will include relocation of the Old High School Thrift Store as well as a quilt shop if and when the building is sold. However for now, all remains status quo.
Mathies informed everyone that he had recently spoken with the city's economic coordinator who told him that a current challenge for a Butler business is related to staffing, as opposed to pay or benefits. For example, a current shift workforce of 25 is needed with possibly some 30 more but there is a shortage of qualified workers for the positions. If the problem cannot be remedied, there is a danger that the company would have to relocate to an area that does have ample qualified workers; Mathies emphasized that resolving the issue is a top priority and discussions are ongoing as how to remedy the situation.
A missing monument for Douglas Park has been located in storage and now discussions begin regarding where to put it. On a related note, several groups are wishing to place a monument at the Butler airport honoring the 12 lives lost in the tragic skydive plane crash earlier this Summer. A this time, it appears it likely will be located near an existing monument on the southwest corner of the property.
Other projects ongoing around Butler include the first phase of the sidewalk project that will run from the Burch & Liles offices west to Fran Avenue; at this time the city is awaiting an agreement from engineers Allgeier and Martin before the next step can be taken. Also, replacement of the railroad crossing on Mill street is still in the works and likely will begin in the fairly near future.
It was duly noted that while the Fort Scott at Water street culvert replacement project is completed, there is still minor cleanup that will be finished in the next week or so.
Remember, the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays at 7 pm, upstairs at city hall. An elevator is available for those with special needs and the public is highly encouraged to get involved.
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