The Hamilton City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. The following report was generated from the unofficial minutes, which are subject to board approval.
The Hamilton City Council opened their regular meeting on Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. followed by the flag salute. The bills and minutes were approved as presented.
During public comments, community member Jarrett Rayburn approached the council in regards to the installation of Meshtastic, a low-power radio communication system that utilizes solar- powered radios. The system enables text messaging without cellular service through a mobile app. These radios communicate with each other over long distances and network coverage improves as more devices are added in the area. Due to the low frequency, no FCC license is required. The council approved the installation.
A concern was presented from the Hamilton Community Church regarding property damage that occurred following the water tower project. After discussion, City Superintendent Robert Ryan will contact Kwikom to address and resolve the property damage issue.
During the Library Report, it was noted that plans are being made for an author visit featuring a local Butler County author. The library is currently working on a “Free Library” box that will operate on a “give a book, take a book” basis which will allow the community to share books and provide a way to distribute withdrawn titles. Other library items discussed were: issues with the fax machine and SEKLS assisted with removing books in poor condition from the library collection.
Discussion was held in New Business regarding paying off the remaining debts on the fire truck and standpipe. The current balance on the fire truck is approximately $2,750 and it was noted that there had been earlier discussion of possible county cost-sharing however, the exact terms of the original agreement remain uncertain. It was mentioned that half of the fire pump truck was paid for by Greenwood County. Treasurer Cindy Hardin will look into the matter and confirm the exact payment split. The fire budget discussion was tabled until the November meeting.
Council members reviewed the city’s financial report. The report indicates a positive trend despite recent large purchases. The beginning balance was $160,000 and the current balance is $207,000.
The council also discussed selling remaining old standpipe inventory (two long pieces and two smaller sections, each about 10 inched in diameter and smaller than standard 14-inch culverts and with limited use), noting that previous higher pricing drew not interest. The council approved to sell all pipe pieces through Johnson Realty at adjusted pricing to encourage a sale. Discussion on fire ladders was tabled until the next meeting pending confirmation of ownership.
In Old Business, the council discussed implementing a monthly roll-off dumpster service for residents with the goal being to help the community clean up property and dispose of bulky waste and large items. Two quotes were received for dumpster service. After discussion, it was approved to contract with Countywide for $700 plus $30 per ton with the cost being split between clean-up effort and the municipal court fund maintenance charges. The dumpsters will be located at the city lot near the park. The first roll-off dumpster will be available the second week in November. A Facebook post will be made by the city regarding the information.
Electrical repairs to the office building have been completed. The need for a new roof was mentioned along with the installation of a mini-split air conditioning system. Potential grant opportunities for infrastructure improvements will be researched.
Other Old Business that was discussed were: Alexander Pumps are pending delivery; Kwikom work on the tower is complete and the Viking tower project is complete.
The council approved to allocate $100 for glow sticks and candy for the Trunk or Treat event.
Superintendent Ryan reported 51% water loss and pressure tank impacts. Ryan is planning to run lines and investigate updating digital meters for better tracking as well as working to lower the residual chlorine levels. Ryan also reported the new side-by-side has been useful for city tasks, meter reading and maintenance. Potential accessories such as snowplows and windshields were discussed. Councilman Rodney Dimick requested that Ryan monitor hours saved using the side-byside compared to the city truck and report the estimate at the next meeting. Ryan has also assisted with city property and equipment maintenance, including tree trimming on alleys and streets and enforcing grass height requirements.
An Executive Session was held for 5-minutes regarding a councilmember concern with Mayor David Harris and councilmembers Larry Walford, Joe Beeman, Christopher Ray and Dimick present. No decisions were made after returning to open meeting. ( No subject or justification were given, which is a violation of the Kansas Open Meetings Act and could result in a fine of up to $500 per council member.)
After discussing concerns and complaints regarding the condition of trees within the city, a proposal was made to obtain a bid for tree trimming along First Street, from the bank to the end of the street, with an estimated cost of $400 to address overgrown branches. Councilmembers discussed using door hangers to notify property owners 14 days in advance of tree trimming. The use of door hangers was also proposed as part of a broader enforcement approach for both grass and tree upkeep. The council considered the option of renting or loaning city equipment to assist residents with tree maintenance. The city approved to hire Buddy Stitt for an estimate for the streets that need tree trimming with a budget cap of $1,000 for Stitt to trim trees now.
Special Meeting
The Special Meeting of the Hamilton City Council regarding the review of structural code requirements for a proposed new resident was held on Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. The classification and compliance of a structure that was move to 14 E. Washington is lacking a title and VIN. It was debated whether the structure is a mobile home or a shed that was converted to a dwelling. Key topics included the need for compliance with state, fire and building codes, the necessity of a foundation and the provision of city services. The council emphasized the importance of proper documentation and adherence to ordinances. The council approved a review of the foundation and setup of the structure to ensure it meets code requirements. The owner will fill out the Manufactured Secondary and Accessory Dwelling application with the 12 items outlined in Ordinance 368 and provide a determination date. The special meeting was adjourned. The next regular meeting of the Hamilton City Council will be held on Dec. 9 at 6 p.m.
