City Administrator Mark Mathies recommended the consolidation of the Street Department, the Water Distribution/Sewer Collection Department, and the Stormwater Maintenance Department into the Public Works Field Operations Department, managed by the Field Operations Supervisor. This should improve efficiency, streamline management, and enhance deployment of resources. The Operations Committee previously met and approved the change; the measure then passed the council unanimously.
An application was received from S & T Royal Properties for 622 West Pine requesting a change in the zoning classification from C-2 to R-3. The Planning Commission had previously approved with no restrictions. The council followed suite with approval as well. As well, approval was given for operation a Bed & Breakfast and Short-Term Rental at 301 North Main.
A representative from Gilmore and Bell Attorneys gave a presentation outlining the final documents and legal steps required to complete the economic development incentives for the Hertzog Meat Company Project which authorizes the City of Butler to issue Taxable Industrial Development Revenue Bonds in an amount up to $9,075,000.00 and approves the associated transaction contracts, which got a thumbs up from the council.
A conditional use permit was requested for property just east of 101 S. Broadway to establish utility service on that vacant lot. Administrator Mathies explained that electricity cannot be provided without an address and all conditions have been met. The council approved the conditional use permit unanimously.
There was an application for a Home Occupation Variance to operate a heavy equipment rental company at 207 East Oak. It was duly noted that all commercial equipment must be completely enclosed inside a building or hidden behind a privacy fence. The application was approved with one nay vote.
A DNR requirement necessitates the purchase of monitoring equipment for the Butler water plant to the tune of $37,179.00. While this infrastructure upgrade is a budgeted item for the current fiscal year, the final quote exceeded the original allocation of $35,000.00. Administrator Mathies recommended City Council authorize the purchase and approve the $2,179.00 budget variance, which was approved.
An update from the Airport Commission meeting was given, it was announced that the new manager, Jay McClintock, is working toward filling the empty hangars. Also discussed how to handle adverse conditions, extending the runway, improving the hangar roofing, and getting bids to replace the flooring in the trailer house. The Parks Department has a tractor that the Airport can use as needed and a pavement inspection is coming soon as well.
Remember, the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm, at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend.
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