The Howard City Council meets bimonthly on the first and third Mondays of the month. The following report was generated from the official minutes of the Dec. 1 meeting, which were approved during their most recent meeting on Dec. 15.
Mayor Richard Clark called the Dec. 1 Howard City Council meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. at the Howard City Office with council members Martin Hunter, Shilo Crupper, Gary Harrod, Derek Cookson and Jerrad Pope present. Also present were Clay Hunter, Bradley Baumgartel, Nick Miller and City Clerk Joanna Hunter. The council approved the Nov. 17 meeting minutes.
City financial reports were reviewed, with the council approving to pay the bills, totaling $37,060.17.
Gas Superintendent Clay Hunter, gave a report on gas valves and those needing to be changed to poly in the next few years. The council approved to purchase valves and necessary parts after researching price and quality, at an approximate cost of $15,000.
The council approved payment #10 of 20 on the Gas Utility Loan at $27,315.09.
Council member Crupper reported on discussion with Brandi Mast, Elk County Community Foundation regarding investment distribution of funds held in Central Kansas Community Foundation. The council approved to place $5,000 from the Pool Donations fund with the Elk County Community Foundation.
The council also approved to purchase a 2015 F250 utility truck from L&R Auto Brokers for $15,350 with stipulation that a Carfax report cleared the following day; approved a bid for fire truck generator troubleshooting from Cummins, with stipulation that D. Cookson checks truck for a switch sensor beforehand; to purchase ceiling lights and electrical for the fire barn; and to purchase plumbing for a bunker gear extractor.
In other discussion: Professional Code Compliance noted two current property issues that Councilmembers will drive by to review before next meeting; Clerk was directed to write letters to two residences regarding city codes limiting propane tank size to 150 gallon; Work on curbing at discussed locations in business area should begin in a couple weeks; The loss of several large trees from city parks is raising concern on the need for replacement planting with oaks and maples mentioned as good options. City Clerk will work on ideas to raise funding and get trees to plant in town and on city properties.
The meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m.
The council also met on Monday, Dec. 15. The council’s next meeting is slated for Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall. Newly elected council members will take the oath of office prior to the Jan. 19, 2026 meeting, when they take the seats on the board.
