The Severy City Council held its regular monthly meeting on July 7, at City Hall. The session opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, followed by a presentation from Emily Frankes of Jarred, Gilmore & Phillips, PA, who reviewed the 2024 audit. A noted decrease in unencumbered cash was attributed to the ongoing water plant project. Frankes noted that the city ended the year ahead and had, on average, 60 days of operational expenses on-hand.
The council approved the minutes, bills totaling $35,061.81 (including $10,500 to APAC and $6,365.95 to Jct Insurance), and the treasurer’s report, which included $73,610.51 in June revenue. The council also approved switching water testing couriers to Metro Couriers for a lower cost of $27/month.
Water Superintendent Paul Schmidt reported on various water-related issues, including the use of inappropriate materials to fill potholes and an upcoming KDHE inspection. Staff shortages were noted, and city mowing and water duties are currently overwhelming one employee. Four properties maintained by the city may be removed from maintenance due to upcoming tax sales.
Under old business, the council discussed a presentation on housing grants, continued issues with property cleanup under KDHE oversight, and substantial negotiations on CAT road grader repairs, lowering a $12,000 estimate to $6,000. The council voted 5-0 to proceed with the recommended repair option. They also approved moving forward with the sale of vacant lots owned by the city, pending documentation.
New business included approval of APAC’s certificate of completion and discussion on shared maintenance costs for West Water Street. The city may be gifted the road while sharing $4,088 in improvements with the county. The council also noted that they will see a 4% trash service increase for next year. The council noted they will absorb the cost.
The council held a 55-minute executive session for legal matters, with Attorney William McClendon and Clerk Tessa Riggs. No action was taken.
The meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m.
Severy City Council will hold its next meeting on Monday, Aug. 4 at 7 p.m.
