Hey, hey hey. Good morning, Witchah, and good morning to all  of you. Welcome to City Hall. Uh especially   many of you who are here for the first time, we  want to welcome you to City Hall. Um and wanted   to just remind everyone of decorum here.  Uh we will have our agenda uh followed by   um a lot of various items that are on the sheet  outside if you want to look at the various items   that we will be discussing. I will now call this  meeting to order. With us this morning to provide   our invocation is Pastor Philip Moore of Eden  Fellowship Ministries. Following that invocation,   we will have the pledge of allegiance.  And we ask that you please stand for both. Let's pray. Eternal God in heaven, we pause at  the beginning of this meeting to acknowledge   your presence and to seek your wisdom. Thank you  for the gift of this day and for the privilege of   serving the people of Witchah. Lord, we pray that  you guide our mayor, our city council members,   and every leader in this room. Grant them  with clarity of thought, unity of purpose,   and the courage to make decisions that uplift  our communities. Protect our families and   promote justice, equity, and peace. Bless our  city, every neighborhood, every household,   every business, every school. Strengthen those  who serve in public safety. Support those who   are struggling. and inspire all of us to work  together for the common good. May this meeting   be conducted with respect, integrity, and a spirit  of collaboration. Let wisdom rise above division,   solutions rise above problems, and hope rise above  fear. We ask for your protection, your guidance,   and your peace over this city of Witchah. In  your precious and holy name we pray. Amen. To the flag of the United States of America  and to the republic for which it stands.   One nation under God indivisible  with liberty and justice for all. Thank you very much, Pastor Moore. Madame clerk,  can you please call the first item? Approve the   minutes of the special meeting November 24th,  2025 and the regular meeting November 25th,   2025. Council members, any edits to those  meeting minutes? I see none. I move to   approve the minutes for November 24th, 2025  and November 25th, 2025. Second motion and   a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madame clerk, please open the roll. I motion passes. 70. Shana, do we have a visitor? Oh, Miss Kathy, it sounds  like we have a birthday today. Miss Kathy works the front desk and she   is 83 years young. So like to  give her a round of applause. Again, we wanted to surprise Miss Kathy who greets  everyone who comes through city hall. And so,   thank you very much, Miss Kathy Arnold, on  your 83rd birthday. And wanted to also remind   um our audience who's here today that the parking  arms are open. So, you won't have to go through   um the city council offices to get the stamp  um so that you can easily get out of the city   hall parking lot. We We can't let her off that  easy. We got to sing. We got to sing for her. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you.  Happy birthday, Kathy. Happy birthday to you. Thank you very much for singing for Miss  Kathy. Madame Clerk, can you please call   the first item? Awards and proclamations. Today's  proclamations are Seduit County Public Defender   Commitment to Justice Day and greetings from  our hometown day. May I please ask the Seduk   County Public Defenders Office and their  supporters to come forward at this time? Before we begin, we need the new proclamation.  Unfortunately, that was not the correct one. So, we will wait. While we wait for the proclamation, could someone  from the Cedric County Public Defenders Office   like to say a few words? Good morning, everyone.  Uh, my name is Sarah McKinn and I am the chief   public defender uh for the Cedric County Public  Defenders Office. We thank you for recognizing   the work of public defenders and the people that  we serve. Every day we meet community members at   their lowest moments um and with your your support  reminds them and us um that we're not alone and   they are not alone. This proclamation affirms  the dignity of every person who comes through our   court system here in Cedric County and we are deep  deeply grateful. Um, on a side note, I was very   um, pleasantly surprised to walk down the hallway  and see a prayer in progress. I've been doing this   work of public defense, as many of my colleagues  have, for years and years. Um, I'm in my 34th year   as an attorney here in Kansas. And people often  ask me, how can you do this? How can you represent   those people? And it reminds me our Lord and  Savior Jesus Christ um and I'm paraphrasing said,   "When you do it for the least of them, you're  doing it for me." Um so thank you. Thank you. While we wait, can I remind everyone this is  Giving Tuesday. So, your favorite charity,   if you can uh be sure and support them,   would very much appreciate it. And I know  they would appreciate it. So, thank you. Thank you for the delay and waiting for this. The  proclamation reads, "The city of Witchah, Kansas,   founded in 1870. Whereas the United States  Constitution guarantees the right to legal   counsel regardless of an individual's ability to  pay. Whereas the Cedric County Public Defenders   Office has served this community since 1984,  providing skilled, dedicated, and compassionate   representation to those in need. Whereas public  defenders uphold fairness, safeguard due process,   and protect the constitutional rights of some  of our most vulnerable residents, whereas their   tireless commitment strengthens public confidence  in the justice system and ensures the promise of   equal justice for all. Now therefore, be  it resolved that the Witchah City Council   does hereby proclaim December 2nd, 2025 as Cedric  County Public Defender Commitment to Justice Day. May I please ask the supporters of greetings  from our hometown day including Sophie Baron   who started this movement and I want to  give a shout out to this young lady who is   from Witchah Kansas. She was named one of  Forb's 30 under 30 for education in 2023,   being the founder of an organization called  the conversationalist, a nonprofit nonpartisan   education platform empowering Gen Z. This  proclamation is one that she asked and   unanimously got the vote of every council  member. So, I will read this proclamation. Whereas Sophie Baron, a proud Witchah native,  unifier, and founder of the conversationalists,   launched the Greetings from Our Hometown campaign  to bring people together, uplift local businesses,   and shine a light on the places and people that  make Witchah extraordinary. Whereas inspired by   the Jonas Brothers Greetings from your hometown  album and their upcoming concert at Intras Bank   Arena, this initiative turns the spotlight back  on Witchah by encouraging residents to celebrate   where we come from and who we are. Whereas from  December 1st through 5th, 2025, Witchah's small   business creators and restaurants will join in  this celebration through special activations,   custom menu items, community giveaways, and  donations supporting the Kansas Food Bank. Whereas   Greetings from our hometown day captures the true  essence of Witchah, a city defined by warmth,   creativity, and togetherness, reminding us that  Witchah is more than a place on a map. It's a home   shaped by pride, compassion, and connection. Now  therefore, be it resolved that the Witchah City   Council does hereby proclaim Wednesday, December  3rd, 2025 as greetings from our hometown Day. I can't believe this is happening. I am  emotional. I grew up here in Witchah.   my whole life. This town, this city, this  community means the world to me. And I left   for the East Coast for a couple of years in  search of belonging. I grew up here feeling   different for most of my life. I was the only  Jewish student in my grade K through 12. And I   thought that belonging meant being a part of a  group who looked like me and thought like me.   So I went to the east coast, found every Jewish  group under the sun, from Jewish ac capella to   a Jewish sorority to a Jewish boyfriend. My  parents were thrilled. And I soon realized   one day freshman year walking through campus that  everyone else who I had met outside of my identity   group was doing the exact same thing as I was with  their respective cultural and religious groups.   And it finally dawned on me that maybe what I  resented so much about who I was in Witchah was   actually the community I had been taking most for  granted. Because here in Witchah, I was a part of   a community of people who encouraged me to think  differently, see the world differently, and come   together for a cause so much greater than any of  us. And that was the spark that really ignited the   work I do today with the conversationalist that  led to this greetings from our hometown campaign.   I mean, even just here with me today, we have the  best of Witchah leaders, content creators, small   business leaders who have all decided to commit  an important moment this week to show that if we   could come together as a community, we can make  a much bigger impact. So, if you are interested   in supporting your favorite small business this  week, especially today on Giving Tuesday, please   head to our website, greetings fromwitchah.com,  and you'll see all of the ways to participate and   how your dollars could go back to our community  and unify us all uh and give back to the Kansas   Food Bank. So, thank you all so much. Thank  you to all of you and to Mayor Woo. And lastly,   I have something for the mayor here. Here I have  uh the official tour case from the Jonas Brothers   Greetings from Your Hometown tour. And I wanted  to present this to Mayor Woo uh with some of our   t-shirts of the Greetings from Witchaw campaign to  share with the council. So here you go, Mayor Woo. All right. Greetings from Thank you again and thank you to the council as  this is helping the Kansas food bank. And again,   thank you Sophie for bringing a spotlight to  Witchita and how great this city truly is. Madame clerk, can you please call the  next item? WSU Tech presentation by Dr. Hello, Dr. Sher Utach. I think we have your presentation. Great. Good  morning, Mayor Woo and city council. Thank you   so much for the opportunity to come and give you  a little bit of an update uh for what's going on   at WSU Tech. So, I appreciate the opportunity. As  you know, we are celebrating our 60th year. So,   I'm going to start this morning uh just with a  quick video. celebrating really what's happened   to Witchah's technical community college. In 1965,  Witchah Area Vocational Technical School opened   its doors with a simple mission to teach hands-on  skills and get people to work. For decades, that   mission remained steady. It wasn't yet a college,  but it was education. And for countless students,   that was enough. But what would it take to make  this something more? In 1995, the Kansas legis   gave the school then Witchah area technical  college the power to grant degrees and in   2001 full accreditation followed but then came  the real turning point a new generation rose to   the challenge educators innovators believers  they didn't settle they disrupted the center   for aviation training was born and eight years  later WATC became WSU with every new program   from healthare to aviation and manufacturing to  niche, home to culinary and hospitality dreams to   the first flight of Witchah's only pilot degree  program. WSU became a place where careers take   off. Now the future is under construction. Not  just in buildings, but in big ideas, new spaces,   new programs, new ways to learn, connect, and  lead. We're not just growing, we're transforming   what education looks like and we're laying the  foundation for the next generation. This school   is fueled by grit and we're constantly moving  forward. It's a place where talent becomes a   trade. Where education leads to opportunity, where  students don't wait for the future, they build it.   The vision is bold, the foundation is strong, the  momentum is real. The only thing missing is you.   US Tech careers start here. So, we are very  very pleased to serve this community. Uh and   um it's it's my pleasure to come kind of an on  an annual basis and kind of give you an update.   Uh we have the largest enrollment between Witchah  State University and WSU Tech in the history of   our institutions. Uh we uh combined enrollment  we are serving over 25,000 students this year.   Uh and at WSU Tech, uh we have our largest  enrollment. We're we we're serving this fall   uh just shy of 6700 students. Uh and we believe  that throughout this academic year, we will serve   over uh close to 11,000. So we are continuing to  grow and provide for um for this community. Um we   um are up in enrollment 6.9% which is really  bucking the trend of of of the nation's two-year   colleges. Um most of our two-year colleges, many  of them across the nation are back to where they   were precoid, but they're not continuing to  grow. This is 11 years of continued growth.   many of those years double digit. Here's  some of the programs that have significant   um uh have had significant growth for us. Some  of those are in automotive, our business welding,   our new pilot program that's three years old, our  culinary, our aviation maintenance which supplies   um mechanics for textron aviation and bombardier  and uh heating and air which we now call climate   and energy control. Uh and then we had some We  had three new programs that uh created quite an   impact for us this year. Uh one in uh electrical,  so uh creating electricians, mobile equipment,   and we have a new mental health techni technician  program. So we continue to grow new programs.   That's part of the secret sauce of making sure  that we're meeting the needs of business and   industry and the needs of our students across.  Uh we also have seen great growth uh from our   Kansas promise scholarship and our future ready  student centers. I'm going to talk a little bit   about those because those are two big things.  But I can't emphasize enough how important the   support of Governor Kelly and the legislators have  been in making sure that these programs exist and   provide opportunities for not only um citizens  of Witchah Seduit County but the state of Kansas.   So if we look at um the impact of WSU Tech,  you can see on the right hand side 15 years   of enrollment growth, that's 148% increase in the  number of students that we're serving. But really   more importantly, look at the student success.  This is what I call this is our this is these are   the metrics that we hold ourselves to. These are  the things that are important. Our retention rate   is 80%. That means that we're retaining students.  uh eight out of 10 students are completing what   they need to do. Course success rate right at  90%. Uh that means that students are achieving   uh a a course um a productive course rate of C  or better. Our FTE enrollment which is related   to our our headcount is over 4,000. We had our  largest graduating class last May of,743. We   will exceed that this year. Our placement rate  this is such an important piece. This is our   job placement rate. So 89% it's always between 89  and 92% is what we're what we do. And that means   that students that complete their programs are  employed in a job that they were trained in or   they're continuing their education or they are  in the military. And the other thing I would   say is 95% of our students that graduate  stay here in Witchah and Seduit County.   So we don't have a lot of um out migration. The  other thing that's an important factor for us is   the applied learning at the bottom. So we had  over 700 students that had an applied learning   opportunity. That means that they were actually  working in a job that we procured for them   uh in the area that they were studying while  they were going to school. So there was over   just shy of 1500 experiences and they're being  paid. And so they earned $4.8 8 million. Um,   and so a lot of times a scholarship with applied  learning can be a job, a J O uh, Excel and CTE.   This is the high school program that we have.  Uh, and if you think about this, we're working in   uh, over 60 high schools across South Central  Kansas. Uh, we are serving over 3,500 high school   students. And that growth, as you can also  see, has just really continued over the last   um the last since it started in 2013. And it's  grown by more than 540%. And it continues to grow.   But this is so important because what it does is  it takes the dollars that have been uh that have   have been funded by the governor and the legisl  the legislators since 2013 and enables senior   juniors seniors in high school to start their  careers early and their tuition is paid. So think   about this. Here's the dream. You have a high  school student that is going through high school.   They also start with us. They they go to their  high school graduation. They get their high school   degree. That same week, they get a two-year degree  from us, and they are ready to be productive work   citizens in this community. That does not mean  that they can't continue their education. But   here's the key. They can continue their education  and they'll go to work in many industries in this   community of which they will pay their tuition.  What does that do? It wipes out student debt.   So, it's a really really important piece. So,  please um in in encounters that you have with   our legislators, this is a really important piece  of what's driving the economy and driving the the   talent pipeline uh for our community. If we look  at Kansas Promise, this is another program that's   funded uh through the state. This is a program  for adult students so that they can upskill,   reskill, come back to school. And so,  if you look at this, it started in 2022.   Uh we started with 160 uh Kansas Promise students.  We're up to 727 this year. And why is this   important? When they take when they agree to take  this scholarship, they agree to work at least two   years in the state of Kansas. So this is again  a driver of creating economic prosperity in a   talent pipeline that is being funded by the state  of Kansas. If we look at our future ready centers,   we now have um we now let's see, we have three  of those. We have one at by North High School.   Uh these are partnerships with USD 259. They  have been fabulous partners with us on this.   Uh we have one in aviation and manufacturing  by North High School. Then down at WSU South,   we have a healthc care future ready center. And  we just opened um an IT hack, the hub for advanced   computer knowledge future ready center. This  is another area of huge growth. These students   are all being covered under those Excel and CTE  funding. But we have created a model, a working   model with USD259 that's scalable all across the  state. Uh and you can see the success that we've   had with this. Um, these are this is transforming  the way high school students are earning high   school credits and college credits at the same  time and preparing for their careers. These are   a lot of the partnerships that we have across  the city. I just uh would would tell you that.   and and nationwide. Uh we are really blessed to  have a lot of people that are working very very uh   strongly and fiercely alongside of us uh to secure  success. The next thing I'm going to show you is   um we just broke ground on a building that I know  that you are very very familiar with. And here is   a just a quick um video of the groundbreaking. It  began with a question. How do we train a workforce   ready for the future? In 2010, Witchah answered  with the National Center for Aviation Training,   a state-of-the-art solution, a hub for hands-on  learning, and a pipeline for skilled talent. At   225,000 ft with classrooms and advanced labs,  today is a flagship for training in aviation,   manufacturing, and technology, fueling a  pipeline of talent for most critical industries. Starting now, the next chapter begins. A  major expansion of the National Center for   Aviation Training will add 85,500  square ft of new classrooms, labs,   and a professional pilot training. New frontiers  in aerospace, robotics, unmanned aerial systems   and advanced manufacturing. Smart labs  will connect across the campus forming   a living micro hub where ideas move seamlessly  from concept to production. At its heart, the   new ideation and hall will open into the hanger  and flex lab. A dynamic space for community and   industry collaboration through trainings, camps,  workshops, and more. A for the future of work.   But it's more than growth. It's momentum. A bold  commitment to push the boundaries of aviation,   automation, and advanced manufacturing. The  future starts here, and it's only just taking off. So, this is the new building. Uh this  building will be open, it's hard to say this,   in almost just one year. Uh so it will open in  January of 27 with students. Uh there's a a shot   from the groundbreaking and uh we were able to  put our hands in the concrete the other day for   the very first time. So um we've got fingerprints  on on the on the new building of what's going on.   Uh this is a super exciting project for this  and and here's why this is so important. So   the National Center for Aviation Training in  Witchah, Kansas is becoming not only known   in Kansas but across this nation and across the  globe for quality excellence in aviation training.   This new facility puts us on the front end and  on the cutting edge of all things automation,   all things robotics, all things integrating those  pro processes into manufacturing. There are many   many places across the country that are right on  our heels, but I am happy to tell you we are we   are the front runner on getting this building  under construction and getting it opened ahead   of everybody else. And this again will continue  to build not only for Kansas but for the nation   and for across the globe our abilities to train  and educate in these critical areas. Then we have   the biomed center. I know you're very well aware  of that, but the biomed center continues to o   uh build uh it's a huge project across the city  and we are so happy to be a partner with Witchah   State University and the University of Kansas on  this and look forward to bringing our nursing and   our search tech programs to this new facility in  August of 27. I mentioned that we opened our new   future ready center for information technology  for our high school students. Um, it's called the   hack and, uh, if you have not been there and you  want to have a chance, it looks like something out   of the movies. There is a cyber hacking room that  teaches students the things that they need to keep   us safe in cyber security. It can also be used by  our business and industries to challenge to see   if they can hack their systems as well. So, this  is going to be a great training facility and we   look forward to that. We have 200 plus students in  this already. Uh we are also revealing our first   ever plane at our future ready center at North  High School on December 16th at 10:30 a.m. Uh we   this is a completely studentbuilt Airbus plane.  So we would love to have you there if you can be   there. And the last um the last slide that I have  and I'll conclude and take any questions that you   might have. The last thing is I say this every  year, the Super Bowl event for us is commencement.   It is the Super Bowl of everything we do. And this  last one, unlike all the others that we've had,   they're all Super Bowls. But this year,  because we had the largest graduating   class in the history of the college, this year's  Super Bowl 2025 commencement was very special.   Good evening. The 60th commencement ceremony of  the Witchah State University Campus of Applied   Sciences and Technology is now open.  Family, friends, and cherished guests.   Thank you for joining us on this meaningful and  unforgettable night. Graduates, are you excited? Tonight we celebrate the accomplishments  of the graduating class to date. students. I've seen your journey from the  classroom to career paths and now standing   here as graduates of one of the finest technical  colleges in the nation. To every graduate here   tonight who has ever struggled, sacrificed,  or question their worth, we are more than   the statistics we fear. We are proof that  it's never too late to rewrite your story. Family and friends, I present to you the WSU  Tech 60th graduating class, the class of 2025. And if I can leave you with one message, it would  be this. The moment you start believing in your   own worth is the moment your life begins to  change. You will forever remain a Shakra.   Forever part of Shocker Nation. WSU Tech community  and W State. So, congratulations class of 2025. I implore you to be bold, to be brave, to be kind,   and to be relentless. Let your life  reflect the purpose, the passion,   and the power of the education you've earned.  Let it change lives, including your own. So, on behalf of all of us at WSU Tech, I want to  thank the city for all of your ongoing support.   Um, this is my 17th year at at WSU Tech and  there has never been a time in those 17 years   that the city has not been super supportive of  what we do. So, I thank you for that. I also on   behalf of all of us at the college want to tell  you it is a privilege and a responsibility. We   are serving almost 11,000 students, 66% who are  first generation college students, 70% who are   PEL eligible. So we are we are really lifting  people up. And I say all the time, who would   not want to be in the life-changing business? It  is an absolute honor. So, thank you all of you. Thank you for that presentation, Dr. Utach.  Council member Ho Heisel. Thank you, Mayor.   And thank you, Dr. Utach, for that presentation as  well. Um, and all that you guys do. Um, my niece   actually what you had described. She graduated  high school. Later that day, she had a two-year   certificate in welding. Uh within a month, she  was actually baking more than Uncle Mike was. So,   um Well, we love that story. I do, too. Honestly,  I really do. I So, I do appreciate that. And   um the 16th, we unfortunately have a council  meeting that day, but perhaps if I get a hall   pass or something, I can I can skip out of the  meeting. And maybe maybe you should your council   meeting like um I don't offsite I don't know  we could host you at the future ready center.   Yes ma'am. All right. Thank you. Thank you again  for all. Absolutely. Thank you Dr. Utach. Thank   you again for providing the yearly update. I think  it's very encouraging and for full disclosure I'm   a Witchah State University graduate. I'm a first  generation college student. Um, and I'm a proud   board member of the WSU Tech board as a volunteer.  And I just want to say thank you for doing the   life-changing work that you and your entire  team do for all these students that are trying   to uplift and really empower themselves with a  career opportunity here in our own community.   this is true economic impact and this is really  elevating individuals in our community and I   appreciate you sharing the opportunities because  oftentimes people don't know that we have these   opportunities for high school students. So, I  hope that uh whether you're watching online or   here in the audience that you will share what  you've learned here and let young people know   especially about future ready centers um and the  importance of the CTE uh programs that are funded   thanks to the governor and the legislature. So,  thank you again for all that you and your team do   um and I appreciate uh the ongoing work. Council  member Glascock, thank you. an incredible   presentation as an alumni of alumnest of Witchaw  State. Um you guys are doing incredible work and   so really all I can say is go shocks. Thank you.  Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Thank you.   Madame clerk, can you please call the next item?  Public agenda. The public agenda allows for up to   five speakers to have five minutes each to address  the council. No action will be taken relative to   items on the public agenda other than referral  to the city manager for information as necessary.   Speakers will please state their name and address  for the record. A time clock will display the   speaker's remaining time to speak. Order and  rules of decorum will be observed. The first   speaker today is Natalie Odor, Kenyan community  and how it has impacted the city of Witchah. Good morning, Mayor Woo, council members. Um,  like she said, my name is Natalie Odor, and I   would like to start off by thanking you all for  giving me the opportunity to speak about my home,   Kenya. Um, on December 12th, 1963, Kenya raised  its flag as a free nation for the very first time,   marking the beginning of a journey built on  courage, unity, and extraordinary resilience.   It's a reminder that when people stand together  with purpose, they can shape their own destiny.   Though Witchah and Kenya are continents apart, we  share a deep belief in community, in opportunity,   and in lifting one another up. And of course,  in Kenya, there's one thing that brings everyone   together. Tea. Also known as chai. It's so  important that if you visit a Kenyan home and say,   "No, thank you. I'm not thirsty." They'll look at  you like something is wrong with you and bring you   tea anyway just to fix you. So, I would like to  invite all of you to join us for Jamuri Day this   Saturday, December 6th, at Newman University  as we celebrate Kenyan's Independence Day.   Come for the culture, stay for the food, and  help us honor a nation whose spirit continues   to inspire the world. And I'll make sure to email  a flyer so you have more information. Thank you.   Thank you very much, Natalie. Look forward to  being there this weekend. Thank you. Madame Clerk,   can you please call the next individual?  Nora Sadiki, Food Deserts in Witchah. Hello, city council. My name is Nora Sadiki. Today  I'm going to talk about food deserts in Witchah,   Kansas. I was born and raised in district 1 um  near WSU. I graduated with my BSN from WSU and   um currently I am pursuing my FNP from University  of St. Mary. Witta has 44 square miles of food   deserts and we've lost a lot of our grocery stores  as you know. I know you guys have been working on   um adding shelving to already existing corner  stores and such. So, I appreciate that and that's   great. But I do believe that access to food is  a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of   economic stability. So, my proposal is to add the  opening of new grocery stores to that or maybe   um find another way to help with funding those  as grocery stores will probably not open up in   those areas without financial incentive.  Um I have a few case studies that show   um for example in New York which is a lot  bigger but closer example would be Birmingham,   Alabama where the city allocated 500,000 of public  funds to offer loans and grants for grocerers   and it was successful in restoring historic um  the village market. So a a great example. Um,   I have a cost breakdown for you and  that includes waving sewer and water   uh fees and permit fees to fasttrack it if  a grocery store is interested in opening in   these areas. Um, but I appreciate your  time and do you have any questions? Thank you, Nora. Council member Tuttle, thank  you. Thank you for being here today and I just   wanted to really applaud you for keeping this  on the forefront. I actually helped conduct the   food desert study in 2013 um and then we did the  followup the hurdles to healthy access to healthy   food in 2015 and then two subsequent studies  on the economic impact of the food ecosystem   within Cedric County. So something that I'm really  passionate about I'd love to get together with you   and chat more. We actually in 2022 with Sedick  County adopted the city of Witchah Sedick County   master food plan uh in case you're not aware and  the three main key goals are to foster the food   system to improve access to healthy food and  increase local food production. Um less than   1% of food is sourced locally in the city of  Witchah. We also implemented a food and farm   council. Every member of the city council  and the county commission appoints someone   to that. I know that we're always looking for  appointees and would love to have you attend. So,   if you wouldn't mind stop by the reception area  on your way out and if they'll you'll ask them for   one of my business cards, they'll give it to you  and let's get together and we can talk about how   we can make sure we're continuing to implement the  master food plan. Thank you. Thank you so much,   Council Member Title. Council member Ballard.  Thank you, Mayor. I just want to tell you thank   you so much for being here. It's um refreshing  to see um people take the opportunity to come   to the bench even though sometimes it can be  a little intimidating. Uh food insecurity is   incredibly important to me. I've been working on  it for a long time and we just need everybody to   do a little bit. So I appreciate you coming  and and speaking to us and council member   Tuttle already shared some things that that  we're doing but I know we have a long ways to   go. So thanks for being here. Thank you so much  Council Member Ballard. Council member Johnson.   Thanks Mayor. I also want to thank you for  being here. Um had a question for you. So   you've heard kind of what we're doing. I've long  believed that on in addition to the incentives,   we should actually be investing in food  infrastructure. So how to grow food and   um that's not a step that we're taking right now,  but Common Ground growers and producers down at   Pearson Mcclit um they have a farm family farm  do a wonderful job. What are your thoughts on   in addition to incentives maybe investing in that  type of infrastructure throughout a food desert   area whether that's in ground open gardening or  as she refers to high tunnels where you can grow   year round so you're not only providing access  to produce in a store but also growing it and   teaching community members how to grow food. I  love that idea especially if you're involving   communities like churches and you know the parks  like Fairmont Park add one there. Um, but the main   thing for me is the idea of maybe a single mother  who has a lot of little kids and has to walk and   get on a city bus to go to a grocery store that  may take 30 minutes just one way. So, I want to   make um healthy food as accessible as possible  because like I said, healthy food is a fundamental   right. I agree. Thank you. Thank you so much.  Thank you again, Nora. Thank you, mayor. Madame   clerk, can you please call the next individual?  Reverend Wade Miller, need for affordable housing. Good morning, Mayor Woo and council members. It's  a joy to be with you this morning. My name is   Pastor Wade Miller and I serve as co-chair of the  Justice Together Steering Committee for affordable   housing. Justice Together unites 40 plus  congregation to answer God's call to do justice,   love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. Hundreds  join each year, and thousands more are touched.   Over the past three years, we've heard around  2,000 stories from our neighbors. Every year,   affordable housing has consistently emerged as a  top concern when we ask families what keeps them   awake at night. and their stories are sometimes  heartbreaking. Teachers tell of students living   in cars or moving between couches. Young  families are priced out of neighborhoods,   forced to choose between food, utilities, and  rent. Seniors on fixed incomes support adult   children while struggling themselves. These  are not isolated stories. They are reflected   in sobering numbers because over 40% of Witchah  renters are costbururdened. One in five pay over   half their income for housing. Nearly 2,000  USD259 students are housing unstable and we   face a 15,000 unit shortage today which is  projected to grow to as high as 40,000 units.   As Proverbs 29:7 reminds us, the righteous  care about justice for the poor and we cannot   ignore our moral obligation. Shelters and services  are acts of mercy. And they are they are needed,   but they are not the solution. They are not  justice. You heard it from the United Way last   week. Housing first works. And federal funding  shifts make local investment urgent. Without   homes, God's people cannot thrive. Families cannot  flourish, and children cannot grow in safety.   Across the country, more than 800 communities  use affordable housing funds. Witchah created   one with one-time COVID dollars. But today, it is  empty. Even as homelessness rises and rents climb,   that's why thousands in our faith community  have united around a moral and spiritual call.   We are calling for you to invest $10 million  annually specifically to the Witchah Affordable   Housing Fund. We raised this commitment  with council members Ballard, Hohheisel,   and Tuttle at our Nehemiah assembly, where each  voiced their support before,50 people of faith.   We are encouraged, but now is the time to act.  A 1-centent sales tax is under consideration.   Sales taxes are regressive and Witchah Forward's  property tax relief could favor higher income   homeowners while burdening those least able  to pay. Any proposal that asks more of the   poor and benefits the wealthy must be carefully  examined. Still, the question before us remains,   how do we fund what is necessary to meet  Witchah's housing crisis? A well-designed   sales tax that protects the most vulnerable, that  doesn't worsen inequalities, could help secure the   $10 million needed annually, giving God's people  the homes and stability they deserve. So today, we   ask you to let the contents of the proposed sales  tax and your vote reflect your conscience. Please   ask yourselves, will any sales tax meet Witchah's  growing housing need? Will it secure $10 million   annually for the affordable housing fund? And will  it avoid worsening inequality for those already   struggling? We are watching your decision and our  members and board will ask ourselves the exact   same questions. If the answer is yes, we stand  ready to work alongside you to help ensure that   Witchah adopts a sales tax that truly serves the  people who need it most. But if a proposal does   not include at least $10 million in the affordable  housing fund and it shifts wealth from those who   have the least to those with the most, then the  only faithful do vote is no. As scripture teaches,   whatever you did not do for one of the least  of these, you did not do for me. A tax package   that fails to sufficiently care for the most  vulnerable tell fails our moral responsibly   responsibility to our neighbors and to God. We  are praying for your wisdom. We are grateful for   your service and we stand ready to help ensure  that Witchah becomes a city where every family   can live in safety, dignity, and peace. Thank  you. May God bless the work of your hearts,   your hands, and as you vote, specifically  your voices. Thank you, Pastor Miller. We're going to ask the next individual. Madame  Clerk, can you please call the next individual?   Reverend Lorie Mills, homelessness and housing. Good morning, Mayor Woo, and the members of  the council. I'm Lori Mills and I serve as   the deacon at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church  in Southwest Witchaw as well as chaplain at ESS   Breakthrough Club. I'm here today representing the  Justice Together Homelessness Steering Committee.   Over the past year, I have worked closely with  several service providers, outreach workers,   people experiencing homelessness, and  community partners who are laboring   every single day to respond to the growing  crisis on our streets. And what I've learned,   what every expert and every lived experience  keeps teaching us is this. The only lasting   solution to homelessness is permanent affordable  housing. Everything else, shelter, services,   encampment response, that all matters. But none  of it ends homelessness. Only housing does that.   When first presented in February last year, the  multi- agency center was a housing first vision,   promising 250 plus affordable units tied to the  project. A plan Justice Together proudly supported   as a pathway to long-term stability. Today,  it appears reduced to 50 permanent supportive   units and 25 non- congregate shelter beds with no  guaranteed funding or plan for additional housing.   The current focus seems to be primarily shelter  and services. We are grateful for shelter beds   that will come online. But we must be honest,  shelter is not housing. Shelter is not stability.   Shelter is not an exit from homelessness.  Many of those displaced come from encampments   um have received vouchers, but vouchers alone do  not house people, especially when our section 8   waiting list is in the thousands and wait times  stretch into years. A voucher without a unit is   a false promise. This is why strengthening fund  and funding the Witchaw Affordable Housing Fund   is essential. It is a proven tool that directly  invests in building the units that prevent and   move people out of homelessness permanently. And  right now, it is without funds. Homelessness does   not resolve itself. It does not get better on  its own. And in a moment when federal housing   programs face uncertainty, as we have seen in  recent months at the state and national levels,   local action is more important than ever. We are  calling on your leadership to restore the housing   first vision the community was promised. For the  MAC to succeed, for our shelters and outreach   workers to succeed, for families and individuals  to truly exit homelessness, we must have more   affordable homes for them to enter. That is why  today I join my colleagues and thousands across   our faith community in calling on you to ensure  that at least $10 million in annual funding for   the affordable housing fund is achieved. Without  it, we cannot meet the need. Without it, every   effort will fall short. Without it, the promise of  the MAC we rallied around will be an unfulfilled   promise. I urge you as leaders entrusted with  the well-being of the most vulnerable in our   city to make sure this opportunity is not lost.  Witchah can choose a path that moves beyond simply   managing homelessness towards actually ending it.  I thank you for your time this morning and I thank   you for your commitment to the people of the city.  Thank you, Deacon Mills. Council member Hohheisle.   Thank you, Mayor, and thank you, Deacon. I And to  the other speaker, as well, and all of you. Um,   I agree. I agree. Um, I've talked about this  before. We heard the recent reports that,   uh, homelessness with seniors are expected to  double here in the next decade. Uh, this isn't   an issue that we can pedal along on. Like, we  need real action here to make sure that we build   affordable housing and we keep affordable housing.  Um just some finer points on the sales tax. Uh we   are trying to work to make it as least regressive  as possible. U some things we're looking at right   now. We're working with the legislature to ensure  we don't have to charge uh for groceries. The   sales tax on groceries. I think that's a big one.  There has been some talk on rebates for people who   are in the lower income brackets as well. So, I  think those details should be coming out here in   the next week or so as we continue to discuss  this. Um, you know where I'm at as far as the   affordable housing part of it. That's the part of  it that makes the most sense for me is affordable   housing and uh homeless services because we all  see the need out there. Um, there's still dark   clouds on the horizon. we need to make sure that  we are out ahead of this issue instead of getting   caught like we have been here recently. So, um I  do appreciate all your advocacy. We'll continue to   work on this. Next week, I think is when we're  supposed to be hearing the sales tax. I I'll   keep working. Thank you. We appreciate that.  Vice Mayor Johnston, thank you, Mayor. Also,   thank you for coming. Appreciate it. And all  from Justice Together, thank you for coming. us   all our friends as as you all walked in. So, uh I  appreciate that. It's something I've been working   on for about the last year on the private side. Um  Steve Felmire is taking a very active role in it.   Already got about 50 houses of affordable housing  working with Kevin Hardy uh in district one. I'm   working on south of Kellogg. Um, the problem is  I gave one of my investors a a list of 12 to 15   lots that are south of Kellogg and not one person  was willing to sell unless it was $50,000. Um,   that it's ridiculous. You just can't make it  work at $50,000 for an empty lot. So, we have to   work on a way to uh help convince those people to  sell those lots for affordable housing. So, Also,   we each got 30 minutes with the uh uh candidates  for a city manager. Uh I spent my 30 minutes with   each one and talk about affordable housing. Um  it was very interesting. 30 minutes is not long   enough to talk about affordable housing. U but I  will tell you that the the candidate that's moved   forward today, Dennis Marshall, has seen what  you're talking about a fund. uh his was uh where   he's seen it is5 to$15 million for affordable  housing. So I didn't get chance to dig into him   deeper with that but uh he is familiar with it.  So that that might be a plus also. So again thank   you for coming and and I'm with you every step of  the way. It's just how we do that. You know I'm   not sure if it's sales tax or the budget how we  do that but uh we do need to find a way for more   affordable housing. So thank you. Thank you. Thank  you very much. Madame clerk, can you please call Madame clerk? Can you please  call the next individual? Uh,   the next individual emailed me a few minutes ago  and advised they were not able to make it. So,   we have an open spot. Would someone like to speak? I'd like to speak. My name is Esau Freeman. I'm the business  representative for Service Employees International   Union Local 513, which is the largest number  of employees you guys have in one group,   and they're probably the least well- paid. Um, you  guys are going to be talking a little bit later   this morning about uh how much Dennis is going  to get paid. And I want to start out by saying I   think even the numbers that have been suggested  in the newspaper might be a little bit low.   Um, you look at Kelly Belloffield  or anybody else, uh, the governor,   anybody who's given up their life 247 definitely  deserves to be compensated appropriately. Um,   and I I don't have a problem with what you  pay the candidate. My problem is got to do   with the process. I was very disappointed in the  process as it occurred. Um, I think you guys had   from last spring until now to really engage with  people and I didn't see much of that happen until   about the last week before everything happened.  That was extremely disappointing. This is not   the only type of committee like this I sat on. I  sat in on the interviews for superintendent and   uh chief human resource officers for the school  district and and a lot of other employers within   the 10 contracts that I represent around the  state. There were some things that happened that   uh concerned me from the consulting firm  that was chosen. Um, I don't know if Mark   really got a fair shot in our interview because  disparaging comments were made by the presenter   about how he was long- winded and we might  not get to the end of the questions. Um,   if you're going to pay that much money to have  somebody do your job for you, you probably   better make sure they don't do things like that.  Secondly, and what probably concerns me the most,   and I mean no slight to Dennis about this, but  Dante Martin was by far the most wanted and   most qualified candidate. And I have an extreme  concern for what would make a 25-year employee drop out from that job search, knowing full  well that that person was the desired candidate,   knowing that that person has relationships and  roots in the community. Now Dante's pretty class   act and he's decided to stay on and help Dennis  with anything that he needs. And because of his   character, I believe that he will do that. I  believe you can depend on that. It's just very   disappointing that he should have to do that. I  think we need to dig deeper and figure out exactly   why Dante withdrew. Why such a good candidate  felt like they couldn't assume that position.   What would make them stop? So, as far as what you  pay, not that worried about it. All three of the   candidates told me that they saw no comparison in  the people who purify our drinking water or fill   our potholes compared to a policeman or a fireman  running into a burning building. So for all those   public works employees, there's really not a lot  of hope. We're the biggest group. We're the least   paid. And we're not considered heroes. But the  day you guys don't have fresh drinking water and   there's a boil advisory, maybe you'll think twice.  So, I'm asking you to as you continue this process   and move forward, um that you look at those things  and that there is some par and equity in what the   employees are paid and that we stop just throwing  money to the top because that doesn't seem to be   fixing the problem. We've got a water plant we've  been working on for god almost eight or nine years   now and it just keeps dragging out. But the  employees that work for those department heads,   if they're late to work or they don't show up for  snow removal, they get fired. But we can continue   to make colossal mistakes on the management  level and keep our jobs. It's crazy to me.   But having been the union representative for  10 years for SEIU, I can tell you that there is   bullying that goes on in the city on a regular  basis for management. And I'm afraid that that   extends itself into the city council. And I want  somebody to investigate and I want more answers   about why Dante pulled out, why such a good  employee, such a good citizen didn't take the job. Thank you, Isa. Council member  Hohheisle. Thank you, Mayor. Um,   first off, I I do consider public works heroes.  You guys are out there in the middle of the snow.   we saw this last weekend in the middle  of the night revving up the engines,   making sure that they're ready to go. You  guys face a lot of dangers on the job. Um,   I do support paying you guys as much as you're  worth, honestly. Um, I have concerns as well. Um,   and we'll get into that a little more. Um, but  I did want to say that it is a dry time of the   year. Um, I know people's lips get chapped  around this time of year. So peace off. Glad you saved that. Just for  you, Bobby. It's right up here. Madame Clerk, can you please call the next  item? Consent agenda items 1 through 22. Council members, are there any items to  be pulled from the consent agenda? I see   none. I move to approve consent agenda  items 1 through 22. Second. Motion in   a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes. 70. Madame clerk,  please call the next item.   Board of Bids and Contracts  dated December 1st, 2025. Morning, Mayor, City Council, Josh Lober,  Department of Finance. The board of bids   and contracts convene December 1st, 2025 for the  following items. For engineering, we have water   distribution system, storm water sewer number 789,  and sanitary sewer improvements to serve Blue Lake   third edition phase 2. for dueling construction  for an aggregate bid total of $487,894.50. We have for purchasing the debtbook investment  management software as a service subscription   for fifth asset incorporated doing businesses  debt book for $47,000 annually. This is how   to become a vendor with the city. This is our  purchasing calendar of small business resource   partners and events that the city is hosting  or participating in. And these are open public   opportunities out on the street today. And  I'd be happy to try to answer any questions   and make the agenda a little bit lighter today.  Thank you, Josh. Any questions for staff? I see   none. I move to approve the board of bids and  contracts dated December 1st, 2025. Second.   Motion and a second. Any further discussion? I  see none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk,  please call the next item. Approval of the employment  contract for the city manager. Good morning, Mayor Council. Pam Penn  Pennington, human resources. I am here today   um for approval of the employment contract for  the next city manager for the city of Witchah. So, a little background uh which I know you're  all familiar with, but uh we'll go through the   timeline. April 22nd, uh, the Witchaw City Council  initiated a national search for the next city   manager by launching an RFP for a professional  search firm to coordinate the search process.   CPS HR was selected as the search firm. June  3, a selection advisory committee was named.   September 10, 2025, a community survey was issued  to identify residents priorities and preferred   leadership traits for the next city manager.  October 20th, CPSHR received 89 applications   for the position and the SE selection advisory  committee reviewed applicants to move forward to   the semi-finalist interview process. November 7,  semi- finalist candidates were interviewed with   the selection advisory committee via uh teams.  November 10th, the selection advisory committee   met committee met with the city council to  determine which candidates would take part   in on-site interviews. November 17th and 18th,  on-site interviews were held with stakeholders,   city council members, staff members, and community  members. November 25th, the city council voted   affirmatively 5 to2 to begin contract negotiations  with the selected candidate. For analysis,   um the city manager is appointed by the governing  body in accordance with the city of Witchaw   charter ordinances. Approval of the contract will  finalize the appointment of Dennis Marstall as   city manager. The contract outlines compensation,  benefits, and accountabilities. The city agrees   to pay the employee for services rendered a  starting salary in the sum of $298,000 per year,   commencing on the start date of December 31st,  2025. The city council will conduct annual   performance evaluations of the city manager and it  may grant merit and equity adjustments as part of   an annual performance review. The following  supplemental benefits and terms are also   included in the terms of the contract. Retirement  contribution of 10% of the city manager's annual   salary per year. An auto allowance of $6,600 per  year. professional association memberships and   subscriptions as desired for professional  development and for the good of the city,   a phone allowance of $600 per year, and complete  moving and relocation expenses. The agreement is   consistent with prior city manager contracts,  updated to reflect relevant changes in market,   competitive comparators, and organizational  needs. For financial considerations, funding   for the city manager position is included in the  adopted budget. Contract negotiation was conducted   between the candidate and the city's HR and law  department staff. Compensation costs are within   industry competitive range and consistent with  council direction. Uh also the law department has   reviewed and has approved the contract as to form.  So, the recommendation is for council uh and mayor   to approve the employment contract for Dennis  Marstall and authorize the necessary signatures. Thank you for the presentation,  Pam. Questions for staff. I see none. We'll open it up for public comment. I see none. We'll bring it back to the  bench. With that, one's on the board. So,   I'm going to start um by saying thank you to staff  as well as the consulting firm for helping us   get to this position um in time after our current  city manager Bob Leighton announced his retirement   earlier this year. First, I want to say thank you  to city manager Leighton for his service of 16   years to the city of Witchah. uh appreciate your  leadership uh in helping the city of Witchah. I'm   also grateful uh to the selection committee and  stakeholders who participated in the interview   process. I believe that this council uh received  three very qualified candidates and at the end   uh we had a vote last week of 5 to2 uh moving  forward Dennis Marstall as the next city manager.   um his experiences both in local government in  city and county from small to large cities like   Charlotte and his nonprofit experience uh bring  him to be the most qualified candidate uh from the   pool and we're looking forward to having the city  manager lead the city of Witchah's 3,000 employees   and 16 departments. With that, I will move to  that the city council approve the employment   contract for Dennis Marstall and authorize the  necessary signatures. Second motion and a second.   Any further discussion? Council member Johnson.  Thanks, Mayor. Um, I agree with the last public   speaker. I also have concerns. So with that,  I'd like to offer a substitute motion citing my   concerns from the November 24th meeting. I would  move that the city council resend the offer and   begin the process over again. Second. Motion and  a second. Any further discussion? I see none. We   have an al alternative motion. So we will vote on  that first. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion does not carry 5 to two. We're back to  the original motion. Motion from the mayor,   seconded by the vice mayor. Any further  discussion? I see council member Johnson. Again,   I did not um hit the button, but again, I  repeat my concerns from the last meeting.   They still stand. And I think that this  process, if it should happen again,   should be uh one without some of the concerns  that I mentioned and elected officials should   make sure that they maintain some distance from  the process. Council member Hohheisle. Thank you,   Mayor. Um I agree with Council Member Johnson.  Uh Dennis seems like a a fine individual. He   seems like a qualified individual. Um, and if  he's hired, I do plan on working with him and   enjoying his company as much as I can. Um, I think  we'll get along fine. Um, I just wish that the   process was cleaner and I had more faith in uh the  process as a whole. Any further discussion? I see   none. We're back to the original motion again.  Uh, Madame Clerk, can you please open the role? Motion passes 5 to2. Congratulations to the  new city manager for the city of Witchaw,   Dennis Marstall. Looking forward to  new leadership in 2026. And again,   thank you to city manager Leighton for  his 16 years of service to the city of   Witchah. Madame clerk, please call the next item. Public hearing and request by Indale  Marjoy Apartments LLC for approval of   a letter of intent to issue multif family res  housing revenue bonds for Indale Apartments. Honorable mayor, members of council,  Troy Anderson, assistant city manager.   So this is actually this item and the next item  are somewhat linked. Um which is why you may   uh notice the Innerdale Marjoy LLC uh that appears  in both this item and the next item. But we're   going to take each one of them separately. Um we  calculated each one's sort of costbenefit analysis   independently as if each project were to stand  on their own. Uh but just to kind of explain why   uh the applicant's intent is to combine these two  projects and submit them to the state in January   as part of a scattered site uh application for 9%  low-income housing tax credits. But again, for the   purposes of uh today and having separate public  hearings for each, we're going to take each one of   these separately. So um little bit of background.  Interdale Marjoy LLC. Uh it's a Kansas limited   liability company that was formed specifically for  the rehabilitation of this property at 916 uh and   930 North Broadway into an apartment complex.  Consists of two and a half story 30un apartment   building with 24 one-bedroom units and six  two-bedroom units. Um the parcels will commence   are concurrently vacant due to uninhabitable  conditions. project again will be financed o   ultimately if approved by the state using 9%  low-income housing tax credits, state historic   tax credits and 35-year fixed loan. Interel  margin is requesting issuance approximately   $8 million in revenue bonds for the rehabilitation  and construction of the project. Uh based on our   review of this project on its own qualifies for  an 85% property tax abatement based on capital   investment utilizing state federal utility  incentives and locating within a redevelopment   area. Uh I won't read these but on the screen  in front of you is the estimated property tax   abatement for the first full year based on each of  the taxing jurisdictions. Project is also eligible   for a sales tax exemption. Um the approximate  sales tax exemption totals a little more than   $243,000 with the city share being uh almost  $19,000. Cost benefit analysis was performed   on the screen in front of you shows not only the  10 year and 20-year period. Something I'd like to   point out um and it's something that we're going  to continue to try to work through with Center   for Economic Development Business Research CDBR  on these costbenefit analyses. These costbenefit   analyses were not generally originally designed  for lowincome housing tax credit projects. You'll   notice down there on the um uh bottom line some  of the uh state of Kansas numbers have very low   cost benefit returns. Coming back up to kind of  just really really high level that makes sense,   right? that the state is foregoing and giving  up tax credits and revenue stream in order to   encourage low-income housing, right? And  so, uh, as we continue to work with CDBR,   we're going to continue to fine-tune this to make  sure that those numbers are correct, right? Uh,   but just know and understand that the the rest  of the taxing jurisdictions all see uh really   good both 10 and 20 year cost benefit returns.  Um, but just looking at the state numbers alone,   we wanted to make sure that we all kind of put  that out there that again that kind of makes sense   that those numbers are extremely low because the  state is foregoing that revenue stream. Standard   disclaimer, revenue bonds are a mechanism for  achieving a sales tax exemption and a property   tax abatement. In a revenue bond transaction,  city's not lending any money. Bears no risk.   owner developers required to achieve all of its  own financing and again no taxpayer dollars are   at risk. Um Interdale Marjoy LLC agrees to  pay all cost of issuing the bonds agrees to   pay the annual origination fees. Bonds will be  purchased by Indale Marjo or related entity.   Uh bond documents have been prepared by outside  council but ultimately when we go to bond issuance   those final forms will be reviewed and approved  by the city's law department. That being said,   it's recommended the city council close the public  hearing, adopt the resolution, and authorize the   necessary signatures. And otherwise, I'll stand  for questions. Thank you, Troy. Questions for   staff? I have a couple. Can I start off with  um if this group does not get LITC, will they   still move forward with their project? Um I'm  going to defer to the applicant on this one. Uh, hi, I'm Shane Pullman. I'm one of the  developers on this project. Um, short answer   is no. I can give a longer answer if you care. Um,  so the the longer answer is that these properties   are in such significant disrepair. I would urge  each of you to drive by these properties if you   have the opportunity. Um, our scope of work on  this is $32 million in excess of that. And the   numbers do not make sense on what the rents  could demand if LITC is not successful. Um,   so that that is a huge driver behind this. I  I think that we've made a valiant effort in   um kind of dispersing the funds and the the weight  that would bear on LITC as a whole um by combining   the state and federal credits as long as well as  the historical state and federal tax credits. So   trying to divvy up those and then get permanent  financing, deferring part of the developer fee,   everything to get the lowest burden on the annual  Kansas Housing Resources Corporation tax credits.   Thank you, Shane, and your group for trying to  provide affordable housing in the community.   um we have received multiple um LITC credit  type of applications over the last two years   and unfortunately have not been successful in  actually getting those LIT techch credits. Um   so that's the reason why I'm asking that question  because our community wants affordable housing   but if we don't get these LITC or you don't  get these LIT tech credits you're basically   saying it's just not financially feasible. Is  that correct? Correct. Um, I see that you're   asking for $8 million in IRBs uh for 30 units.  So, this amounts to about $266,000 per unit   um which is a high amount compared to um what  we've seen from this bench on new build. Can   you explain uh just why it costs so much? Yeah,  so um part of the financial projections on this   have to do with the utility allowance. Uh so when  we're utilizing LITC and HUD, the energy standards   were raised in the past few years as well. So the  energy standards on these are I mean they're going   to be some of the most energy efficient apartments  that are in downtown Witchah. Um so that's a huge   part of this. Getting the historical tax credits  has its caveats as well. Historical restorations   are an expensive project and Indale is one of  the most stunning masonry work I've seen in the   city of Witchah. But with that comes a cost. Um  so preserving the historical characteristics of   each of these buildings is is a major factor  in this and then the energy standards that   have to be adhered to and again they are in  significant disrepair. Thank you Shane. Um, I   did drive by uh Broadway and to look at this very  property since I knew that this was going to be   uh coming before us on Tuesday and I saw boarded  up windows um and it is in a lot of disrepair. So,   I appreciate that you're trying to revitalize  that building so that you can provide affordable   housing in the community. Um, can you share also  I know that you just mentioned the masonry is   amazing in in that building. However, have have  you ever considered what it would cost to demolish   and do something brand new or you're only simply  wanting to renovate? And if this doesn't happen,   will it just continue deteriorating? Yeah. Um,  as contradictory as it sounds, it actually is   the most beneficial to utilize the federal funding  for to achieve the lowest possible rents by the   historic revitalization of this property. So,  it utilizes so many different sources of funding   that that is the best way in comparison to the  cost of a entire new build project. Thank you,   Shane. Council member Hohheisle. Thank you, Mayor.  Uh, thank you, Shane. So, you you guys have the   next item, too, correct? Correct. Okay. Were  these am I thinking correctly? Were these paired   together for a LITC um application last year?  You are correct. Yeah. So, um we're doing what's   called a scattered site project and application to  where it will be both sides considered in one. So,   uh, the Indale apartments as they stand are  an existing structure and then we have under   contract 930 North Broadway which is a vacant  lot which will turn into additional parking.   1240 South Market which is known as uh the Marjoy  Apartments. Um, we also have under contract 1250   South Market which is a single family home which  will be torn down for additional parking. Um,   so we'll do the scattered site, which will be all  four of these parcels considered one project by   LITC standards. Okay. Are any of those within a  is it a half mile of another LITC project? Um,   the restriction with when those were built,  they are, but not within the time constraints   that would restrict these. Yeah. Because it's  a couple of years, right? Yeah. Okay. Yeah.   That's that's really all I have from you. Thank  you. Perfect. Thank you, Shane, and thank you,   Troy. I see no further questions from the bench.  We will now open it up for public comment. I see no one from the public. We'll bring it  back to the bench. This is in Council Member   Maggie Ballard's district. Thank you, Mayor.  Um, I just want to say thank you for um, being   willing to entertain investing in these historic  um, buildings. It is a very cool building. I used   to deliver meals on wheels there and was appalled  that people were actually living in conditions uh,   such as um, in a deal. So, I just wanted to say  thank you so much for that. Uh, and with that,   um, I'd like to take a recommended  action to close the public hearing,   adopt the resolution, and authorize the  necessary signatures. Second motion and   a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk, please call the  next item. Public hearing and request by Interdale   Marjoy Apartments LLC for approval of a letter  intent to issue multifamily housing revenue bonds   for Marjoy Apartments. Honorable mayor, members of  council, Troy Anderson, assistant city manager. Uh   again, this is part two of uh this request,  the scattered site application request. Um   so I'll try to skim through this pretty quickly.  Again, Interdale Marjoy, Kansas Limited Liability   Company, specifically formed for uh the renovation  of these two properties. This one in particular,   1240 and 1250 South Market. This project consists  of a 2 and a half story, 26 unit apartment   building, 21bedroom, six studio units. Um parcels  are currently vacant in uninhabitable conditions.   Again, projects will be financed with uh a  handful of state housing tax credits, historic   tax credits, and fixed loans. Uh this particular  project issuance of approximately $7 million in   revenue bonds for rehabilitation and construction  of the project. This one also qualifies for 85%   property tax abatement based on capital investment  utilizing other state federal utility incentives   and locating within a redevelopment area. Um,  again, I won't read the numbers in front of you,   but that's for uh the first full year for each  of the taxing jurisdictions. This one also   eligible for a sales tax exemption. This one  totals about 186,000, city share being about   14,000. On the screen in front of you is both  that 10 and 20-year cost benefit analysis. Uh,   the ratios for each of the taxing jurisdictions.  is again just highlighting that state of Kansas   uh and the low-income housing tax credits and  our work with CEDBR on the on the costbenefit   analysis. Standard disclaimer, revenue bonds are  a mechanism for achieving both the sales tax and   property tax abatement. There's no lending  of any city money. City bears no risk. Owner   developers required to achieve all of its own  financing and no tax payer dollars are at risk.   The applicant agrees to pay all costs of issuing  the bonds as well as paying the annual origination   fees. Uh the bonds will be purchased by Interel  Margeria related entity. Bond documents have   been prepared by outside council but final form  will be reviewed and approved by the city's law   department. It's recommended to city council close  public hearing. Adopt the resolution authorize the   necessary signatures and all stand for questions.  Thank you Troy. Questions for staff beginning with   council member. Thank you Mayor Troy. How long  has this property set vacant? I remember doing a   fire ride along with uh the fire station off of  Broadway and they were talking about that this   often has fires. I think one night I drove by and  that there was a fire going on. How long is the   property set vacant? I don't know that number  exactly, but I know that from everything I've   talked to about it's been for many many years.  Okay. Y thank you. Council member Ho Heisel.   Thank you mayor and to council member Glasco.  It's been significantly longer. It's um yeah,   we've actually had two different groups try  and do some sort of affordable housing project,   including the neighboring movement um with that  here a couple of years ago. I hear about it all   the time in the neighborhood trying to get that  building back up and going. It's a beautiful   building, but yeah, um it's definitely an eyesore  and a sore spot in the South Broadway corridor. May I ask a couple questions  to the applicant again? Again, thank you very much for trying to  revitalize buildings that have sat vacant in   our community. Um, can you address how long that  building has sat vacant? I know it's been at least   5 years. Um, the property owner has owned this for  11 or 12 years and it was purchased at auction and   I believe when he purchased it, there was still  one or two tenants that were in the property.   And again, this relates to the question I asked  earlier for the previous item. If you do not get   the slide uh credit, what will happen with with  this building? Um again this kind of falls down to   um the the challenge of the economics behind this  building. Um so we are we remain hopeful that LITC   will you know work out on this. I will say that  this property in comparison to Innerdale, the   um construction of it being 1918 versus  1950, the construction of the layouts are   more conducive to a lessened um budget. Not  that it won't be a significant renovation,   but it's it's less rund down in comparison. The  construction materials were just much different   between those two time periods. And again for  this specific project is $7 million 36 units.   So that comes to about 194,000 per unit. Um again  trying to revitalize these buildings costs a lot   and you're trying to provide affordable housing.  Um can you just share again why it's so difficult   um for things like this to pencil out um and if  you don't get this LIT tech credit you won't be   moving forward with renovating. Yeah. Um as you  well know the the LITC behind this is a is a huge   factor because it contributes so much to the  renovation cost itself and the budget itself.   Um, so that's what really incentivizes this  and makes us able to charge the proposed rents   as to what they are. Um, and market rate  on a property like this just would not be   sufficient for what building costs are today  for the renovation. Um, with this neighborhood   um, and the proposed tenants it would serve,  I I think there's a discrepancy between what   their ability to pay the necessary rents for  the renovation would be versus what is reality.   Um so LITC is crucial in this and you know  uh a associate of mine and myself had gone   to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation annual  housing conference up in Kansas City in October.   And in attending that conference, heard a lot of  different um presentations that were specifically   geared towards properties like this that were  focused on historic um that had the emphasis   and the need on affordable housing and were highly  encouraged that seeking a public activity housing   bond and tax abatement would go a long way. in um  furthering the significance of our application. Thank you again, Shane, and thank you to your  team in trying to provide affordable housing in   the community and revitalizing vacant lots or  vacant buildings. Um and I know that this will   be again a risk in terms of you don't know  if you will get LITC granted or not. So, um,   good luck. U, I think again this council, I can  speak on their behalf that we are interested in   housing in our community and we're interested in  people that want to build housing or renovate uh,   so that there is housing at all different price  points and I appreciate that you're trying to   revitalize again vacant buildings to provide  affordable housing. Thank you. Yeah. And um I   just want to have one other point too because  I know this was a presentation and it's quite   a shame that they all left before hearing this  part but um because I think this is what they   were talking about. Um but one of the barriers  to LITC in general is the significant costs that   come with these applications. Our group has well  over $200,000 into this project already and this   is our second application. Um, so it it takes  a significant investment that we have a vision   for something to be better here and hopefully  have um council members Ballard and Hohheisel's   phones ring less about the nefarious activity in  their districts. Thank you, Shane, and thank you,   Troy. I see no further questions for staff or the  applicant. We'll open it up for public comment. I   see none. I'll bring it back to the bench. Council  member Glascott. Thank you, Troy. Thank you for   the presentation. Shane, thank you for developing  this project. Um, I think you're right. This is   what affordable housing can look like in Witchah.  And I think when there's two projects that make   sense, it's these two projects. These are two  beautiful buildings from the outside. They just   haven't been maintained. And I hope that you can  receive flight tech credits on this. I hope that   the state reforms their process to allow more  of these projects to happen. Um, but I think   this is a win for the community and a win for both  Councilman Hohisel and Ballard's district if these   properties can be developed and a win for Witchaw  as a whole. So, best of luck and I hope that you   uh achieve it. This resides in Council Member  Hohisel's district. Thank you, Mayor. Um,   and I'd like to echo Council Member Glascock's  comments. Um, but I would also like to point out   that in today's world, it's hard to get anything  done without some sort of government subsidy. as   far as affordable housing goes. So, let's also  keep that in mind as we have ongoing discussions   about how to make sure to ensure affordable  housing in our community. So, um with that,   I would like to move that the city council close  the public hearing, adopt the resolution, and   authorize the necessary signatures. Second motion  and a second. Any further discussion? I see none.   Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes  70. Madame clerk, please call the next item.   Public hearing and request by Envision  Incorporated for approval of a letter of intent   to issue industrial revenue bonds. Honorable  mayor, members of council, Troy Anderson,   assistant city manager. Uh this application a  little bit different but um similarly Envision   is a nonprofit organization headquartered in  Witchah. Uh dedicated to improving the quality   of life for people who are blind or visually  impaired. Uh, inver Envision currently has two   Witchita locations, 2301 South Water Street and  610 North Main Street. You may uh recall that   Envision has been involved in the disposition of  their location at 610 North Main Street. And so in   an effort to consolidate their facilities into one  location, uh this particular requests considers   the remodel and consolidation of facilities  into one location at the 2301 South Water Street   location. Project will allow Envision to house  all of its programs, offices in one location,   which will result in the enhanced delivery  of their comprehensive services. requesting   issuance of approximately $15 million in revenue  bonds to finance the project. However, this is not   a request for property tax abatement. Uh as a not  for-p profofit 501c3 envision is generally exempt   from adaler property taxes anyway. So again,  no property tax exemption is being requested.   The project is however eligible for a sales tax  exemption. Um based on the construction costs, the   approximate sales tax exemptions about $615,000  total with the city share being approximately   $46,000. Standard disclaimer, revenue bonds are  mechanism for achieving a sales tax exemption and   property tax abatement in a transaction. City is  not lending any money. Bears no risk. The owner   developer is required to obtain all of their own  financing. Again, no taxpayer dollars are at risk.   Uh, Envision agrees to pay all costs of issuing  the bonds and the annual origination fees. Bonds   will be purchased by Envision or a related  entity. Bond documents will be prepared by   outside council, but ultimately final form will  be reviewed and approved by the law department.   Therefore, it's recommended the city council  close the public hearing, adopt the resolution,   and authorize the necessary signatures. We do  have a representative from the applicant here   today that answers questions, but otherwise,  I will stand for questions. Thank you, Troy.   Questions for staff beginning with council member  Tuttle. Troy, thank you for the presentation. Not   a question but just a statement. Due to a conflict  of interest, I will be abstaining from this vote.   Uh, two questions. One is for you. Can you just uh  share this is a 501c3, so they don't have property   tax. Um, correct. That's between them and the  state and the tax allowances that they're given by   the state. But yes, that my understanding is that  they're generally otherwise taxexempt. Thank you.   May I have the applicant come forward and just  share uh the importance of Envision and uh their   commitment to the city of Witchah making sure  that uh they continue to provide opportunities for   individuals who are uh blind or visually impaired.  Absolutely. Thank you uh mayor and city council.   I'm Mark Eaton. I'm the chief financial officer  at Envision. Uh so Envision was formed in 1933   and for the last 92 years has been grateful for  the support of the city in providing employment   services and programs uh to the citizens who  are blind or visually impaired. Currently   uh we have about 100 employees who are blind and  visually impaired. uh they're in direct labor of   the things that we manufacture for the government  as well as our customer service department is 100%   employees who are blind and visually impaired. Um  we have call center that's 100% blind or visually   impaired employees uh accounting information  technology also has people that are blind and   visually impaired. Um we also have expanded the  services and programs such as our early childhood   development center where children from five weeks  to five years come. The model is half the children   are blind or visually impaired, half are typically  cighted. So the uh children that are blind or   visually impaired start to understand um yes they  have a disability but there's still expectations   on life uh for them and the children that are  typically cited uh learn empathy and learn   from the time they were a year old they're around  people that were different and that's just part of   life and you figure out how to help people out and  they carry that with them for the rest of their   lives. We have a um low vision clinic. Uh people  that have macular degeneration or glaucoma, we   can't do anything to cure that. We can help those  people understand how do you navigate life? How   do you cook? How do you clean? How do you go to  the grocery store? How do you go out and do other   things in life? And we're currently serving about  1,600 uh different individuals through those uh   services and programs. the um the products that we  sell to the government uh we sell at a profit and   reinvest that money back into the organization.  The services and programs we typically do not   receive any revenue for. So currently we spend  about $4 million a year on those services and   programs that we do not get any reimbursement  from the city uh the county or the state. Um the   county bought our building at 610 North Main. Our  commitment to Witchah is to invest all that money   back into Witchah and hence the remodel and that  is the funding. We're investing it all back into   Witchah and um this is about uh deferring that  or not paying sales tax that $615,000. We we do   contracts for uh the federal government. It would  take about $10 million of those contracts to get   to $615,000. Those are very low uh margin and  they're a lot of work. Um many of you came to   and participated in the gayla we recently held.  We raised about $500,000 for that to which we're   grateful to the citizens of Witchah. They came and  supported that. It's a lot of work. So this money   is significant to us and what we do. Thank you  very much, Mark, and thank you for the continued   efforts by your team in helping again individuals  who are blind or visually impaired with these   opportunities. I see no further questions for  staff or the applicant. We will now open it up   for public comment. I see none. I'll bring it back  to the bench. Council member Glascop. Thank you,   Mayor. Um, I just want to make some brief comments  as well. Congratulations on moving to this space.   When I it was about 10 years ago, I worked for  Envision at the Water Street location and to   see the work that you all do every single day for  the blind, visually impaired is incredible. Most   of my colleagues uh that worked around  me were blind or visually impaired and   uh just to see the talent that they brought to  the workforce. To have that type of space in our   community for people uh is incredible and we're  very lucky to have Envision in our community.   And I'm glad that you're moving all the loca or  all the operations to the water street location.   I think this is a win um in terms of transit,  in terms of accessibility for people to get to   the facility. And so I'll be very supportive  of this today. This resides in Council Member   Hohisel's district. Thank you, Mayor. Um I'd like  to echo again Council Member Glascock's comments.   Um, this is definitely needed uh throughout our  community and I do appreciate the investment   in South Witchah. I used to walk right by this  location every day on my way to and from school.   Um, so it's very known to me. Um, but you guys  are doing great work out there working with um,   people who are bringing a lot of energy and a lot  of experience to a particular field of employment.   So, thank you guys for everything that you do. Um,  and with that, I will move that the city council   close the public hearing, adopt the resolution,  and authorize the necessary signatures. Second   motion and a second. Any further discussion? I  see none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 60 with one abstension.  Madame clerk, please call the next item.   Golf course irrigation improvements. Good morning, mayor, city council. Uh Jesse  Kaufman, uh manager of the golf division   and uh here to talk about the golf course  irrigation uh project. So getting into the   uh background uh there's four mun municipal golf  courses that are operated under the golf division   of the department of park and recreation. Uh  the turf conditions obviously the most important   part of a golf course and they're crucial for  the quality of play for the patrons. Enhanced   customer experience increases golf the golf  systems financial viability. irrigation systems   systems at all four courses are very were very  aged when we started this program this project.   On October 13th of 2024, staff presented a  capital spending plan to the city council for   the golf system. On August 20th of 24, the plan  was approved by the city council and incorporated   into the 2025 through 2034 adopted capital  improvement program. It includes $8 million   over four years to fund irrigation improvements  at the four golf courses. On December 3rd, 2024,   city council approved the initiation of 3.5  million in funding for irrigation improvements   at two city golf courses, 1.5 million for Arthur  B. Sim Golf Course and 2 million for McDonald Golf   Course. Arthur BM irrigation was successfully  completed this past spring and the McDonald   irrigation replacement is scheduled to begin  next month with completion um in spring of of 26. Um I do want to mention the uh Mc McDonald  irrigation uh came back about $300,000 under   budget. So we're very happy with that. I  want to make sure and clear point that out   uh for this presentation. Um, an analysis of  the situation that the USGAA or United States   Golf Association says that the expected life of an  irrigation system is 15 to 30 years depending on   climate and various factors. Um, aging systems  have resulted in continuous and costly repairs   consuming hundreds of staff labor hours. Downtime  caused by inoperable irrigation systems obviously   equals diminished course conditions, decreased  course revenue, and most importantly, it has a   very negative impact on the customer experience.  Uh, prior to the start of these projects, the   last replacement of the irrigation systems at SIM  was 1988, McDonald was 1995, Auburn Hills 2001,   and Texans was 1992. So, uh, most are well well  beyond their their expected life. The modern   irrigation systems are obviously more efficient.  The technology has come a long way in the the 30   years since these old systems were put in. It's  a lower water consumption with the new systems,   which is way more effective at water placement,  which reduces inefficient usage of water, lower   electrical consumption from irrigation pumps, and  lower maintenance cost. Financial considerations.   The adopted 2026 through 2035 CIP includes $2  million in 26 and 2.5 million in 27 for golf   irrigation systems funded with general obligation  bonds. Staff recommends initiating both amounts   at this time for a total of 4.5 million. The golf  fund which as you know is an enterprise fund is   required to fund the annual debt service on any  debt issued for this project. We the golf fund is   expected to have the capacity to fund any required  debt service for this project through continued   operational surpluses and expected savings  from the maintenance and the utilities of this   new system. Uh, also want to point out the golf  system will encumber the $400,000 debt from the   SIM project in 2026 and get ahead on the repayment  schedule. Um, the way that we first laid this out,   um, the plan was to pay a minimum of $17,000  toward that debt in 26. We are um fortunate   and very proud to be in a situation where we can  get way ahead on that payment schedule, pay 400,26   and we fully expect to continue to do so um for  for at least the foreseeable future. Um legal   considerations and recommended action. The law  department has reviewed and approved the bonding   resolution as to form and it is recommended  that the city council authorize initiation   of the project, adopt the bonding resolution, and  authorize the necessary signatures. And with that,   I'm happy to answer any questions. Thank you,  Jesse. Questions for staff? Council member   Hoheisle. Thank you, Mayor. Just one real  quick. You talked about a $300,000 savings   on the previous irrigation. Uh where did we put  that money, that savings? Well, there's several   funding sources in this project. Um so there  part of that would be probably going toward that   $400,000 payment that we're using. Um we there's  funding from the obviously the golf system um from   a um park um renovations uh fund that was in place  that was transferred to this project um and then   the go bond. So um we're we're just at the end of  this year. So figuring out how where that money is   going to go um is we'll do that at the end of this  year. But uh that would certainly be put toward   the $400,000 payment and also probably allow us  to pay even more in the 2027 to pay this debt off   as aggressively as possible. Okay. Thank you.  Appreciate it. Vice Mayor Johnston. Thank you,   Mayor Jesse. I just want to thank you for  the great job you're doing. Uh that's why   you're repaying that debt back sooner because  you're doing a great job getting a lot of play.   Maybe too much play the golf courses. Um but but  thank you very much. It's you've done a really   really good job and and Reggie, thanks for all  your support. Uh it really means a lot to the   golfing community and it really means a lot to  a community to have good really good public golf   courses. It's not necessarily CEOs that are  playing there, but it's all those managers   and the people actually make things go that uh  that play there uh including me. So So thank you   very much. I appreciate the job that you do. Thank  you. Thanks, Jesse. I see no further comments from   the bench. We'll open it up for public comment.  I see none. We'll bring it back to the bench. The two golf courses reside in council  member GlassCox's district. Mayor,   happy to make a motion. I move that we  authorize initiation of the project,   adopt the bonding resolution, and authorize  the necessary signatures. Second. Motion and   a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madam clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk,   please call the next item. Water  and sewer rate adjustments for 2026. Good morning, mayor and council members.  Gary Jansen, public works and utilities.   Uh the item before you is proposed water and sewer  rate adjustments for 2026. This uh presentation   will look very similar to what we discussed during  the workshop in October. Uh there include some   additional information that was requested during  that period of time. We've also included a third   uh potential option for a rate increase that would  reflect a more of a target for debt coverage ratio   which I'll talk about more in just a little bit.  So uh what this presentation will include there's   a lot of information here is I'm going to talk  about the rate drivers including on and m factors   um factors related to the capital improvement  program the utility is very capital intensive   uh there's two items that are impacting uh  probably the rates as much as anything now   um during our discussion today which I'll talk  about it which is future loss of wholesale   revenue and BNR staffing needs needs. Uh  we'll talk about the rates themselves,   the recommended adjustments, the three options  to consider, resulting debt coverage, and I'm   going to spend a little bit of time on that  because the third option I talked about includes   uh contemplation of a target debt coverage  ratio compared to we've been over the last few   years. Impacts to customers. Want to talk about  Witchaw rates versus peer cities. That includes   some additional information that was requested  during the uh workshop. Uh I want to make sure   um we talk to you about our affordability and  assistance programs and then looking ahead at the   impacts of long-term water conservation and then  we'll wrap things up. So we try to project rates   uh generally three to three to five years out but  because of so many in factors impacting a utility   our size it's necessary to evaluate specific  issues on an annual basis just as we are doing   now and just as we did around this time last  year. So start by looking at some rate drivers   with on andm expenses. Uh I think this slide will  look familiar. Blue being water expenses, green   being sewer expenses. Average on&m cost increases  in the past three years have been 12% in water,   10% in sewer. Uh we do everything we can to try  to combat that, but there's a lot of that that's   out of our control. So looking at some specifics  related to that, uh on the left is a reflection of   what has happened with chemicals. Uh after holding  steady for years, chemical prices have more than   doubled in recent years. Blue being a reflection  of water uh green with sewer. Future projections,   we expect that those will continue to rise. Uh  the chart on the right is just one example of   some other challenges we face with staffing within  our we have uh increased use of contractors in our   water distribution group due to chronic staffing  shortages. Persistent vacancies have driven up the   use of contract services over $ three and  a half million dollars since 2020. So you   can see the red shows our salary and benefits.  We're continuing to see an increase in service   contracts. We are working to continue to hire more  staff. We have had some luck in the last year,   but we are challenged uh with competing against  the construction industry. That's where we lose a   lot of folks within this group, especially once  they get their CDL and find that they want to   move on to to a higher pay. Um, and so we've  got to fill that gap with contract services. I mentioned that the utilities are a capital  intensive business. Uh, a good majority of   what's in the CIP, which I'll talk about here  on the next slide and kind of break this down,   is for renewal and replacement. So you can see  that the pie chart on the left shows that most   of the revenue increases the utility needs are for  infrastructure or 77% with the balance being for   operations and maintenance. The charts on the  right uh the top being for sewer bottom being   for water also shows in blue the bulk being for  renewal and replacement with our goal to maintain   what we've got first and foremost uh limited on  expansion but I'll talk about specific projects in   just a little bit. Uh I might just take a minute  to mention again we are a large utility. We have a   lot of fixed costs uh that we have to maintain the  system. It continues to grow as the city grows.   Uh I've talked about some of these numbers before,  but I'll mention again that we maintain over 4,000   miles of water and sewer pipes, over 60 sewer lift  stations, eight treatment facilities of various   types. We have over 160,000 metered connections,  53,000 water valves, 16,000 fire hydrants,   and over 50,000 sewer manholes. I mention those  numbers because it's surprising to me at times   when we start looking at our budget needs and  considerations uh during this time of year,   just how large of an infrastructure  system we have related to the utility. So, breaking this down a little bit more, uh,  looking at the rate drivers related to the   capital improvement program within the currently  adopted CIP, uh, we have nearly $900 million of   new projects. In addition to that 10ear CIP, rate  drivers include expenses for Witto Waterworks,   BNR, and $229 million in ongoing projects. So all  in uh the debt that we need to account for is over   $2 billion. Our staff does a really good job of  working with finance department uh working with   our bond council to balance uh what goes into  our improvement fund for cash funding uh versus   financing for bond uh debt service actual bonding  of future projects. And I think they do a really   good job with that to really optimize and maximize  where we need to be at on our revenues. But we   have a large again amount of projects. We have a  lot to finance. Might talk specifically about WTO   Waterworks and BNR for just a moment. Um in 2019  around then when the city council made a decision   uh to start increasing rates to account for  funding almost $900 million in improvements   between those two projects. We started, we've  been building up rates since then to be able to   spread that out. You've heard me talk before about  generational equity. Uh instead of having try to   squeezing things in and have uh people pay for  a lot of this upfront, it makes sense to spread   this out. The WIFIA funding that we were fortunate  to utilize uh to be able to smooth the rates out,   finance this over time is over period of 30 years.  The balance of both of these projects generally is   through SRF which is over a period of 20 years.  So as we continue down this road for many years   uh the revenues that we have coming in from rates  part of those are used to continue to finance   those projects. Uh there was a question asked  about Witchaw Waterworks and spec specifically   leading up to today that I'll address real  quick uh about there being a guaranteed   maximum price for that project. there was for the  contract itself. Uh at one time it was just under   $500 million. There's also an overall project  budget that's more than that contract. It   accounts for a lot of things we've previously  talked about uh for the new power supply uh   for a lot of our internal costs that go into the  project. All of that was put into the proform at   that time. It is included now. Um we we estimated  an overall budget with contingencies. That part   has not changed. Even with the u 3% of change  orders that we currently have on that project,   that was part of the contingency that was  included, that has not changed. So anything   that we're asking for today, just like last  year, this is not a higher rate increase   because anything's changed on that project.  One more part of that I will tell you too,   uh, with the ongoing issues we have right now that  we're working through that we've talked about, uh,   with the clarifiers at the plant, uh, currently  working through those issues with Witchaw Water   Partners trying to figure out what a plan is going  forward. There are no additional costs on the city   or the rate payers for that. Those will be the  responsibility of Witchaw Water Partners to make   the repairs. All of the costs associated with  that as we move forward until we take ownership   of the plant as we have not will not be additional  cost to the city or the rateayers. That is not a   part of the discussion today. These rates that  we're looking at and recommending for increases   are the same we looked at at the workshop in  October. So that is not a factor. Looking to   the right side of this, uh, I'll just highlight  real quick before I get away from this slide. Uh,   you can see the RNR is renewal and replacement for  most of what we're doing. Again, we're trying to,   uh, make sure that we keep in good shape what  we've got. Give you a quick example of item three   on the water, the phase water supply, which shows  us an expansion that is for the recharge basins   within our equis beds well field that helps us  to optimize our recharge uh, of the equis beds.   that's brought a lot of value to us. We do have  part of that includes uh matching funds from the   Bureau of Reclamation, 25% federal funds. Those  uh recharge basins will really help us to keep   the aquafer full uh providing long-term value  for our overall water supply. Sewer projects are   effectively the same. Uh we do have some projects  uh including our plant through our northwest   wastewater treatment plant based on growth may  need to be looking expansion in the coming years.   We continue to evaluate the CIP for optimizing  the timing of needing needed improvements   uh so that we can know where we need to have the  proper timing of rate increases. So, one of the   factors I talked about uh that's different  this year that is a part of our recommended   rate increase is the future loss of wholesale re  revenue. The cities of Derby and Valley Center are   expected to utilize water from their own water  treatment facilities begin in 2027. They both   have untapped groundwater rights that they're  going to utilize. Um they will still need some   water from us. This chart that you're looking  at, the blue was the prior projected wholesale   volume consumption for both orange being the  current current projected wholesale volume. Those   changes start in 2027. The estimated reduction  in consumption is 400 million gallons. That does   support long-term water conservation goals.  So, there's value in that uh for the region,   our ability to continue to provide water to 11 the  balance of our 11 wholesale customers. But there   is an estimated annual revenue loss of $2 and a  half million dollars beginning in 2027 that we   have to offset somewhere because keep in mind all  of those assets I talked about that's still part   of our fixed system that does not change. We still  have to maintain those same assets uh and have the   ability to have the funding for operations and  maintenance whatever it takes on the capital   side because of that large fixed system even if  we're supplying less water to others. That's 3%   of the projected annual volume, one and a half  percent of the annual water revenue. The other   factor that we talked about before is staffing  related to our biological nut nutrient removal   project. I mentioned earlier this is one of the  projects that's funded primarily by whiffy and SRF   nearly $400 million project is well underway.  We're about halfway through. The next item I   have for you after this one is actually one the  first change order associated with that project.   But in particular, the expanded operations of BNR  require additional positions to meet regulatory   compliance. uh to do so uh it's recommended  to add 13 FTEES and we would convert another   part-time position to full-time that includes a  variety of positions from process engineer plant   manager and supervisor lab staff on&m specialists  and we were splitting that out over 2026 and 2027   as the facility comes online to try to balance  the necessary rate increase. The impact of BNR   staffing was not fully realized when 2025 rates  were presented. We knew when this project started   that we would need additional staffing. It did  not make sense at that time to try to estimate   that cost. So, we've known this was coming. We  knew this need that would be there. Uh we've   talked about this previously in 2024. It's been  part of the adopted budget that we knew these   positions would be there. There's more bases and  basins and equipment that need to meet regulatory   requirements. Odor control improvements required  more re resources as one example. Uh currently   only our operators work uh 247 for our wastewater  facilities. As we move forward in particular at   this site because of what is needed to make sure  we meet the regulatory requirements and operate   the new facility. We will need to be 247 for all  staff. That requires more people. That requires   more funding to support that. that is part of the  recommended increase today. One of the things that   we talked about during the workshop uh council  member Holhaz we talk about often and I wanted to   highlight today was an update on what we're doing  for bio gas. Uh we currently you see that top   picture uh the methane gas that is a byproduct of  the digestion process during wastewater treatment   is flared into the environment. Now um we  are looking for a beneficial reuse for GA   that gas produced at the plant. We received seven  responses for requests for information this August   for a public private partnership. We have a formal  request for proposals under development expected   published by the end of the year. uh what we have  determined that's the best way to move forward   here is there are folks out there who will provide  the capital for building the improvements like you   would see in the middle and the bottom pictures  uh they will maintain those facilities ultimately   the city of Witchaw would receive revenue we don't  know what that looks like yet some estimates were   around three or $400,000 a year we're going to  do everything we can to maximize that but that   Any revenue generated by the biocast project would  then be incorporated into future rate models. So   it becomes part of the big picture as part of the  revenue hopefully has some impact on future rate   increases. Just wanted to show you kind of what  that looks like and have a little bit more formal   discussion on that. Okay. So start looking at uh  proposed rate adjustments and our first option.   So, just so you know what you're looking at here,  the orange line where it says 2024 projection,   that was our projection at this time last year  for 2026. Just to show you that there is some   flexibility uh and and a need to again evaluate  these on an annual basis because there are so many   factors that can change. We at this time last year  had estimated a rate increase for 2026 of 6.17%.   I'll show you here in a couple slides what  this impact is on a monthly bill will make a   little bit more sense to you. And uh now we are  at a recommended increase of 6.23% for 2026. So   we're pretty close. A lot of that has to do with  uh looking ahead at the lost revenue from what   Derby and Valley Center are doing and what the  needs are for BNR. trying to look ahead at least   the one year. Again, we try to project three to  five years out, but it's it's hard to be really   right on the same spot every year. You'll see  that peak in 2027. Uh where we had projected   6.34% is now projected to be 7.04%. I know these  are a lot of numbers. Again, I'll show you the   monthly impact of bills which will make more sense  here shortly. that is related to losing those uh   water customers and that volume and that revenue  from Valley Center and Derby in 2027. So keep in   mind that peak when we saw that we thought maybe  we'd look at the idea of what would it look like   to smooth that out which is the option two I'll  talk about in a moment. Included here again are   cost impact of additional BNR staffing, future  loss of wholesale revenue. Not included is funding   for changes in lead and copper or POS regulations.  Those are things we are working through right now.   Lead and copper requirements at the federal level  could have a pretty significant impact on us here   in the coming years. We're trying to figure out  where we're at on that and bring more information   back to the council as soon as we can. This does  not include revenue losses due to new watering   schedules, which I'll talk about towards the  end of the presentation. This does not include   additional bond coverage contingency, which I'm  going to dig into here shortly. Option number two,   uh ask you to keep in mind that peak in 2027.  What this does is contemplate trying to bring that   down. It doesn't amount to much. I don't know that  this is a real viable option, but we wanted to see   what we could do to smooth that out a little bit  to be able to flatten that out. Orange is the same   same projections from 2024. Uh what happens is is  that 6.23% bumps up to 6.53. The 7.04 comes down   to 6.88. That's the best that we could do to kind  of try to level this out. I'll show you what those   numbers look like soon. It really doesn't amount  to much change in 2027. don't know that this is a   viable option, but we'll show you all of these  side by side. Everything stays the same here,   what's included, what's not included. I will  also tell you uh I you're aware we've talked a   lot about our water reuse master plan that we're  developing, our efforts to move that forward.   Nothing that we're contemplating here right now  includes any additional funding for our water   reuse efforts, but that is something we will  want to talk about in the coming year for sure.   Option number three is new uh compared to when  we talked about this during the workshop. So   what this talked about debt coverage ratio and  I'm going to get into this in more detail in the   next two slides after this. Uh our required debt  coverage ratio is 120% to be able to maintain our   current bond rating. Historically staff has set  our target at 125%. I'm gonna explain why here   shortly. I'm going to show you a list of reasons  why it makes sense. Um so that we can buy down   future risk so we can have some more flexibility  within the utility moving forward and really not   putting ourselves potentially put ourselves in a  bad spot in case of emergencies that come up. So   what this does include is providing debt coverage  ratios of at least 125%. Everything else stays   the same. on the not-inccluded list, that last  bullet where it says not included, additional   bond coverage contingency. I should have took that  part out because this does include the additional   bond coverage contingency. So, lot of numbers. I'm  going to show you these side by side on a table   here shortly. So, let's talk about the resulting  debt coverage. Uh the dark red line is the minimum   required of 120%. uh to maintain the utilities  double A minus credit rating a debt coverage level   of 120% above is required. I mentioned before  that we have tried in the past to have an internal   target of 125%. We have not maintained that or  tried to stay at 125% over recent years in an   effort to suppress the rate increases to keep them  as low as we can. we have pushed ourselves down to   the 120% and I'll talk to you here shortly about  the challenges that that presents the further we   go forward. You can see there's a lot of lines on  here. So the green line was what those rates were   that we had projected this time last year for  2026. You can see if we stayed there, we will   drop below certainly below the minimum required  at some point in time. The blue and the orange   lines are options one and two. They're effectively  the same. Uh it's only enough coverage to meet the   minimum requirement. Does not provide a safety  net for un unforeseen negative circumstances.   The whatever that last color is kind of purple  dotted line that is the rate plan option three uh   that we have now added for your consideration that  provides a debt coverage ratio of at least 125%.   uh provides us some contingency, provides us  uh some room for risk. Uh and I'll I'll talk   about one thing in particular related to that  shortly. Looking at this from a different angle,   I know this is a lot of information, but I  would bring your attention to the red numbers   in the bottom box. Uh keeping in mind that our  minimum debt coverage ratio is 120%. Uh again,   that's required to maintain our current bond  rating. Um and we want to keep we would like to   have our internal target at 125%. So some impacts  to the debt coverage particularly here of why   those numbers are starting to come down. I talked  before about which waterworks and BNR. Repayment   of the Witchaw Waterworks SRF loans and one of  three of the same loans for BNR begins in 2025.   uh repayment of another BNR loan begins in 2027  and then repayment of the big whiff loan for which   Saw Waterworks begins in 2029. So that's why we  start to see a real push uh of the barely meeting   that minimum debt coverage of 120% because we've  got more of that debt coming on for the loans for   Witto Waterworks and BNR. So it's good to look  at these projections. We think that's risky.   uh it's it's challenging to be in that spot.  We would rather not be cutting it that close.   That's why we've included the third option. So  let's talk about the importance of strong debt   coverage levels. This is a lot of information.  I'll highlight this through here. So as noted   by S&P Global, all in coverage is a key component  of the financial risk profile for an enterprise   system like ours. According to S&P, maintaining  strong debt coverage leads to the following. So,   it enhances financial resilience and the ability  to absorb unanticipated costs. On the next item   that I'm going to present to you for BNR,  uh, as we were working through the project,   we had a failure at our headworks where all of the  the wastewater comes into the facility unexpected   old infrastructure. We were trying to make it  work until we could get it replaced. almost a   half a million dollar cost uh added to the project  to be able to respond to that, make sure that we   could continue to treat waste water, not have any  problems for the community. Those are the types of   things uh that we will continue to see as we go  forward with aging infrastructure even with all   of our efforts to maintain what we've got. We have  a big enough system. We have an old enough system   in some areas. We just never know what might be  coming next. So when we can cover debt service   and other obligations with healthy headroom, it  is better positioned to manage revenue and expense   fluctuations like that. Facilities investor  confidence and low finance lower financing costs,   future financing costs obviously can be impacted  by our bond rating. If you look at the fact that   we have over two billion dollars in current debt  throughout the CIP with new projects and ongoing   projects, it's critical that we maintain the  lowest interest rates in the future uh for the   best financing. It supports affordability and rate  setting flexibility. If we have a health healthy   debt coverage can signal adequate rate setting  and financial flexibility to maintain operations,   reducing the risk of a revenue shortfall again.  And so to kind of wrap this all together, better   coverage contributes to a stronger financial  risk profile and higher ratings. S&P again has   indicated that the minimum acceptable allend  debt coverage is 1.2. To maintain that rating,   we would really like to be closer to 125% or 1.25  25 to provide sufficient reserves aligned with   the analytical framement framework employed by the  rating agency keep us from uh looking at too much   risk down the road and especially the impact we  could have to future financing. Happy to come back   to that later if you have any questions. I know  that was a lot of information. So let's look at   customer impacts on the recommended options.  This is usually where we see it's easiest to   see what is going uh the impact would be to our  customers. 90% of our customers uh are residential   and most of those are within the low volume. So  if you the 2025 bill for low volume was $6244.   Our projection at this time last year that 6.17%  uh would have added $342 per month. Our option   number one bumps that to $367 per month. Option  two uh which was the one to try to smooth out the   increase in 2027 would be 380. And then uh option  and I'm going to show all these side by side on   the next slide. it'll make more sense for for the  next two years. But this is what we're asking you   to consider today. I will come back to this with a  recommendation. Uh our only ask of you is for 2026   rates. This would be the impact. Option three,  which allows for 125% debt coverage would be $410   per month. So we range anywhere in there from 367  to 410 where most of our customers are low volume. I would bring your attention to the low volume  line. Again, this shows side by side uh and I   don't want to create confusion, but I'll walk you  through this of what this looks like for the next   two years. Again, you're only voting on 2026  today. 2027 is not guaranteed. You've seen just   in the last year that it's changed a little bit  about 25 cents per month. But as of right now, our   projections uh for 2026 and 2027 with option one  is the 367 and the 433. That peak you saw in there   at 2027 that we thought we would try to smooth  out by changing those rates. We bump 2026 by 13 to   $3.80, but we only bring down 2027 by 4 cents a  month. That's why I mentioned before it's probably   really not worth that. Could be still something  you can consider uh just to try to equalize that a   little bit. And then the added option for the 125%  debt coverage would be $410 per month in 2026 and   a projected $462 per month in 2027. Just one more  time that would get us the 125% debt coverage.   Lots of numbers. happy to come back to those and  I will when I get to the recommended page. So,   what do we do to help suppress rate increases?  Because this is ongoing for us. It happens uh   across the board with what we do with our utility.  We've got a lot of great staff that are looking   out for ways to save costs. Uh we routin routinely  seek additional operational savings. For example,   um I've we've talked about the additional BNR  staffing that is needed. Uh we we're using a   phased approach to reduce the initial impact  on the on&m budget. This additional staffing is   also expected to result in $100,000 in contractual  savings. We unified our call center and business   operations into the account services division  which is providing a lot of efficiencies for   customer service within the utility in particular.  That's an expected annual savings of $85,000.   Another good example is we uh large meter  replacements have increased the accuracy   of readings. 6 in meters and above have  seen readings increased by an estimated   13 to 15%. So we're capturing the actual  volume of water that we're selling. We were   losing that revenue in the past. That is pretty  significant. Operational savings are generally   not enough to overcome cost increases and other  challenges. One of the things that we have done,   especially in an effort to meet that minimum  120% debt coverage and keep the rates down, is   we've reduced and redistributed over $40 million  in the CIP expenses over the next 10 years. What   that means, we have pushed more stuff out than we  would like to. That adds to our potential risk if   we start having failures uh with any of our assets  over the coming years. We've talked about this,   but the reduced bond coverage contingency levels  and the financial model is how we try to suppress   rates. If we try to stay right at 120, we will  keep our rates down compared to 125. And I talked   about pursuing favorable financing opportunities  for Whiffy and SRF. That's done wonders for us for   being able to finance those two big projects. One  of the things we've done too since 2018 is had a   very concerted effort at looking at optimizing  our utilities across the board. Actual savings   includes large meter replacements which I talked  about a renewable energy program, LED replacement   program for lighting and all of our facilities and  the things that we do related to energy. Those are   just some examples. We also focus on preventative  maintenance over corrective. So, we're trying   to be proactive as much as we can compared to  reactive. That will save us money long term. Uh,   we've had a average annual savings of almost $6.7  million as a result of that. So, moving on to pure   city comparisons. We talked about this during  the workshop. I actually have two slides now.   The second one includes additional information  that was requested by the council. So if we look   at our I35 corridor pier cities uh witchaw remains  at the bottom of that list which is a good thing.   You can see I won't run through these numbers.  Kansas City, Omaha, Oklahoma City, De Moines   and Tulsa and Fort Worth. We are still in a good  place. What we showed at the bottom of this and so   I talked before just so there's no confusion. Most  of our customers are that lower user. We can only   get data from other communities for the middle  user. That's why this monthly number looks higher.   So we were around $64 for an annual bill for low  users. the mid user 7500 gallons. So that's what   this reflects because that's what we could get  from other communities. You can see at the bottom   we show what the three options look like for  a mid user ranges all stays within that $98 to   $99 range. One more comparison I wanted to show  you. This was a request that came out of our   workshop to look at some other communities  especially around the Kansas City area.   So this is more regional and not so much uh  necessarily even related to population but more   regional related to Kansas. So you can see we've  got tha Lawrence, Kansas City, Topeka, Lavender,   Salina, Manhattan, Witchaw's three options again.  There's only one community on this list that's   lower than Witchaw with the projected increases.  Keep in mind and that is Hutchinson. So, we're   still positioned in a good place here, we believe,  for affordability, doing everything we can to keep   our rates as low as possible. Okay, thank you for  bearing with me. I want to talk about assistance   programs, and then I'll be ready to wind this  down. So, between uh 2021 and 2023, you'll see   a bump here in uh uh the customer assistance funds  that were used. Approximately $4 million in state   and federal funds were used to help customers with  utility expenses in the wake of CO 19. That's why   those are higher. Um in 2023, there was a specific  extended rate relief as requested by the council.   Assistance funds typically come from customer  donations and a 100th of 1% of water and sewer   rate revenues as earmarked by the city council  in 2016. Customer donations to the H2O program   more than doubled after introducing online giving  options in 2024. So our customers, our rateayers   are also giving to this to provide assistance uh  for those that are lower income. The H2O care fund   uh provides emergency financial assistance for  individuals and families. It's administered by   Center of Hope. It's assistance is available year  round, can provide up to $100. The rate relief   assistance program is managed through our staff.  Um it's again generally available year round.   Provides a $50 credit for eligible customers.  Those can be combined. So folks could get a   collective $150 in relief in assistance. I also  know the Center of Hope, they do a lot more things   with customers to try to help them through more so  than even the $100. Uh we've seen them do a lot of   good things for customers in need. Um good stuff  there. We have really good staff that is educated   on this, including offering payment plans, which  we talked about before, uh, which helps folks kind   of maneuver through difficult times and being able  to spread out their payments. Our outreach efforts   include city's website, director direct customer  contact by city staff. These are outreach efforts   to make sure that folks understand what assistance  is available. We have signage and flyers in city   hall, community centers, and libraries. We have  an annual contract with assistance agencies that   we've previously talked about. Flyers are provided  for them. We've worked with EverGy uh through some   of their events and website promotion at DCF  events. And then in 2025, staff attended new   outreach events at multiple community centers and  we will continue to do that. Last thing I want to   talk about before we move on to a recommendation  is long-term water conservation. As you know,   in September of this year, the city council chose  to move forward long-term watering schedule,   uh, which allows watering three days a week. We  do expect that to provide conservation compared   to where we've been in the past. Ultimately, that  likely will have an impact on our revenues. Um,   year-to- date, water consumption is down  approximately 7% from 2024. water sales   have declined by $2.7 million from 2024. Um I  mentioned the permanent watering restrictions   to three days a week. We've yet to see what that  impact will be because since September we've had   fall weather. Not exactly sure where that's going  to put us. We'll continue to monitor long-term   impacts of the new watering schedule. Um what this  chart shows then blue is 2024, orange is 2025. Um,   even though I mentioned 90% of our customers are  residential, 50% of our annual water consumption   is from non-residential customers. So, even as we  went through uh the stage 2 drought restrictions,   uh the impact of revenue was not quite what  we thought it would be because most of our   commercial industrial customers were still  using the same amount of water as they needed   to for their business purposes. But just want  to let you know something we're keeping a close   eye on moving forward so we can be a part of  future discussions. Having said all of that,   uh staff recommends city council approve  one of the rate adjustment options,   place the ordinance ordinances on first reading,  and authorize the necessary signatures. I'm happy   to go back to any slides you would like.  I'm gonna go back to this one for now   because this has got the real numbers that you're  contemplating for recommendation today. Thank you   for your time. Thank you, Gary. Council member  Hoheisle. Thank you, Mayor. Uh thank you, Gary,   for that brief presentation. Um okay, looking at  this slide right here, so over the next decade,   if it's averaging, let's say three $3 a year, that  would be about a $30 increase over a decade. So,   putting the average low volume payment around  90 to $100. Okay. That that that is something   that I get a little heartburn over um seeing those  rates coming up. When I first got on council, was   it around five and a half%? I'm a little grizzled  in one of the older council members. It might have   been uh probably at that time, especially before  we started discussing these big projects. Okay.   Okay. And I do appreciate you showing the um the  one year I think we used some extra ARPA funds to   uh do the rebate program. Uh there was a variety  of things that were utilized around that period   of time. Yes. Okay. And I will tell you, sorry  to butt in, but back from that same time too,   even prior to when we talked about these  bigger infrastructure projects that we're   currently undertaking, um you know, I talked  early on about chemical and energy costs.   they were considerably less. We have seen such  an increase um postco on a lot of areas that has   not settled down. So our hope would be as we move  forward and you talk about the next decade that we   start to see some stabil stabilization there and  may maybe we don't see this increase every year   but I don't know that's why we come back to this  every year. Right. Yeah. It's hard to project. Your assumption was that There we go. Your your assumption is that we would  stay at the rate uh at the percentage increases   that we are currently recommending for the next  few years. G you can go back to the trend. We   actually show a stairstepping down%. Right. So  I don't think it's fair to extrapolate and get   to a $30 uh increase over a 10-year period. Yeah.  Yeah. I I mean I understand that. Um, but it also   the percent is on the adjustment as well. So it'  be a 5% on the $62 and next year it' be $66 or   I mean I I hear you. I understand what you're  saying, but I that's why I'm kind of lowballing   it $90 or so. So I appreciate that. All right.  Yeah, that's um essentially all the questions I   have for now. Council member Glascock. Thank you,  Gary. Can we go back to I think it's slide 100. Okay. Yep. This is perfect. So, if we're  looking at this to make to make sure that we're   maintaining strong debt coverage levels, we would  need option three through option three is the only   one through 2030 that presents um a debt coverage  level that's above 125%. Correct. Correct. So,   we're having this conversation today.  Every year we come back with yearly rates.   We know that we would need option three with  current projections to maintain debt coverage   service levels through there. What would be the  harm in setting rates for 5 years? Give people   the in to give people the foresight and what maybe  additional charges will be able to be. And then   if there needs to be a different change, it could  come back to council instead of voting. If we know   that we have to maintain the debt service levels  at this rate and option three is the only one that   presents that what is the harm in setting that and  if there's something that changes substantially it   can come back before council otherwise we give  people five years worth of projections to be   able to maintain that. I think the only I don't  know if it's harm. Uh the only thing I would say   to that is just the point that you made uh as  far as expectations. When I started off this   presentation, I talked about our desire to look  at three to fiveyear projections. And you know,   I guess it depends on your perspective. Even what  we're looking at now is not what I would consider   a drastic increase from our projection at this  time last year, but it is still a change. I think   we would have to try to manage those expectations  of of right now I I hear a lot about gosh you said   last year was going to be this much now you said  it's this much we're going to have to work through   that whether it's one year whether it's three year  whether it's five years I think we we kind of add   to that risk not necessarily a risk uh but the  challenge of trying to manage expectations from   our rate payers depending on how far we look out  when we know that there's going to be additional   cost due to inflation and maintenance regardless.  So I mean each year you're going to have some   cost increase because of just inflationary  pressures. Correct. Uh there there you know   is we I don't know that I necessarily would see  a problem with that. We would still need to have   the yearly discussion and talk about the details  and the specifics like I've covered today. Okay,   I know it's a lot of information, but I think  it's important to understand what drives these   recommendations and these decisions because  there's so much that goes into it. What but   what I think I hear you saying is if we if the  council were to approve a multi-year increase,   we wouldn't have these necessarily annually  unless there was a significant change in our   financial position. Also I you know five years is  an interesting period because if you get to year   six in 2031 we're actually over covering on debt  and so at that time you may be looking at dropping   the percentage increases below 5% because of that  change in financial position. But again that's   that's a long way to p predict out. But what I  hear you saying is one time approval only come   back with exceptions. Yeah. I mean, if we're  trying to maintain the debt coverage level at   125%, it makes sense that we set a rate, set rates  that we'll be able to do that through five years   and then we don't have to have an annual review.  Citizens would have a better understanding of   what their annual increase would be every year.  And then if there is a change, we could have an   annual review and come back, but that would only  be if there would be a needed change. So, I'd be   interested in that. I'm interested in hearing my  colleagues as well. But coming back every year,   we know that we're going to have some level of  an increase. And so I'd be interested just to   hear colleagues perspectives. Vice Mayor Johnston.  Thank you, Mayor. Gary, can you go back to slide   93, please? Maybe just help me understand. Um I'm  presuming from this that that Derby and Valley   Center use about 400,000 gallons of water. They're  going to be using 401 million gallons less than   they previously had. Okay. They're collectively  right now using about 1.4 billion gallons of   water, which is the blue chart. If you look to  the left, that's 1.4 billion. Collectively that's   expected to drop to 1 billion each year which is  a reduction in consumption of 400 million gallons   per year. Any consideration made for communities  that increasing their volume? other subs we it's I   mean it's possible uh with what we've been through  with drought restrictions and other communities   all of our wholesale customers were required  to implement three day a week watering I would   expect that we won't see an increase in use but it  might depend on industry too there are some growth   uh within some of the communities of our wholesale  customers and if they get big commercial and   industrial water users it certainly could go up  Okay. Um, can you go back to 10 102? Go to 102. Help me through this now. So, if I'm a high  volume user, do I pay a total of $1022 or is   it 342 + 512 plus 1022? No, it's 10. It's 1022  and that would be added to that 178. So, um,   if based on that projection, the 20 the 10 the  $1022 was what we were projecting at this time   last year. So, that's not for consideration. Our  recommendation is the first one that's option one,   the 1056 just to be clear. Okay, that's 1056  added to the 17828 which was their 2025 bill.   Okay. Okay. I appreciate that. Um, lastly,  can you go to number 90? 90. 90. Yes. 90. You made the statement there there's no additional  cost at this time for the water treatment plant,   the new water treatment plant. I might push back  on that because we're hiring two staffs to operate   that plant and our present plant. So, we actually  do have an additional cost. It depends on your   perspective of when that starts. My point was  nothing is new today that we didn't talk about   last year that we didn't already have as part of  our projections in 2019. Uh our operational costs.   Uh, you're correct. We've got two staffs. We've  had that contemplated for multiple years now.   All I was trying to say is we're not I've had this  question asked um especially related to, you know,   the repairs that are being made. So, I want to  be clear about that. We're not continuing to add   costs each year. the costs that are in uh that  we're looking at from last year's rate increase,   from the previous rate increase, those going  forward still include those all-in costs that   we knew that were there from the beginning.  Yeah, that's all that's all I was trying to   get at was that there's a there's a thought and a  contemplation from others who have reached out to   me that we just keep piling on. We're spreading  out the funding of all of that over many years,   especially the financing of the overall project  costs. Okay. But if we did have the plant come   online yesterday, uh we wouldn't have a cost  for as much of a cost for operating the old   water treatment plant. Correct. We expect  to see a reduction in operating cost once   the old plant comes offline. Is that is that  something that we will go back and try to get   from Witaw Water Partners? that extra staff  we're having to maintain now to operate two   plants. I think we need to visit about how  we calculate our losses and we'll continue   to work with our attorneys on that. Okay. I I  would encourage us to do that. So, thank you. Can you go back um to slide number 98, I believe? So with option three and again there is a typo as  you already mentioned the last bullet point should   be deleted because this actually does cover your  contingency. Correct. Um can you talk about the   importance again? I know you had a long slide, but  for a lot of folks who are tuning in, they want to   know why is it so important to have a debt cover  ratio of 125%. Um, not just for utilities, but   really for the entire system. Maybe this is more a  city manager question of the importance of making   sure that we are able to cover debt. Thank you,  mayor. Um the cost of our debt depends on our bond   rating and how our financial health is determined  um by the rating agencies there. The bond   covenants themselves um and those are the legal  documents covering our debt for the utilities as   we have to have 120% coverage. don't necessarily  have to do that with our geos but we do provide   uh additional capacity in our in our fund balances  so that we can sell at good at good rates and we   are at as you know we receive probably better  than our rating even because of our financial   condition uh on our go debt the same applies to  the utility because we have consistently stayed   at at least 120% and usually hovered more around  125% or better and so there's a predictability   ility in our buil in terms of our ability to fund  the debt service annually for the utilities. And   I think that's why it's so important. Should we  ever get to a point where the rating agencies   question our ability to be able to cover the  debt or meet their required coverage ratio,   then I think we would see higher higher borrowing  costs, which would impact rates more than what   you're looking at today. Thank you. And also in  this uh graphic that you have right here, there   was already an expected rate increase for this  year. Is that correct? That's what the orange is.   That was our projection at this time last year for  2026. Correct. Um and then I wanted to entertain   the question that uh council member Glascock  provided and even city manager uh shared the word   predictability. Um, a lot of folks want to budget  and make sure that they are able to see if there   are going to be increases, how they're going to  budget their monthly bills or their yearly bills.   Um, and so I am actually interested in seeing how  we can provide more predictability for residents.   We all know that everything increases based off  of inflation. The cost of individuals that are   employed, their rates increase. Um, and as you  mentioned, chemical prices continue to increase,   energy prices continue to increase. Um, all of  these require the rates to continue increasing.   However, having some predictability to help uh  individuals who are trying to budget would be   helpful. Uh, so I'm in favor of having more  predictability as council member Glascock   mentioned. I'm curious if the other council  members are interested in more predictability   for again individuals who budget. Mayor, if I  could add on to that, the council that approved   us moving forward with the water uh treatment  project as well as with the BNR improvements,   that was important to them that we do long-term  projections so we could show predictability.   And it's only because of some changes in  the market that we've had to vary from those   original projections. So I what you're saying and  what council member Glascock brought up would be   consistent with the council's initial thoughts  and planning when we agreed to both of those large   capital projects. Council member Johnson. Thanks  Mayor and thank you Bob. That was um what we voted   for. I guess my question on setting a multi-year  rate for you Gary would be what what would that   rate actually be? Would it be what we're looking  at now and we just set that in stone for 3 to   5 years or would it be a different rate and how  does that impact us? Um I think I heard that this   would come back if um if the market or something  changed, but how would we be impacted doing that?   I think we would be comfortable with the  numbers that you see here. Whichever option is   being contemplated for the next five years to set  those rates um to the point that the manager made   um if we're able to make those work, we wouldn't  necessarily have to do this every year. I we're   good with predictability also. That helps  us understand what we might be looking at   for rates at the same time. just like it helps  our customers, it helps us understand what we   we can expect going forward, not knowing where  we're going to end up with this discussion each   year. So, I think that could be a good thing for  us, too. Gary, if I can put a finer point on it,   I think the predictability only comes with option  three. There's too much risk associated with   predictability on one and two because just even  some kind of variation on our finances in one year   in 27 or 28 um would probably get us dangerously  close to or below the coverage ratio. So you pick   up that flexibility in the coverage ratio and if  things turn out to be better that you also have   flexibility then on the operating the piece  for operations and maintenance. Awesome. That   was that was my next question on that because  option three was the only one that kind of made   sense to me to to do that. But I guess so our I'm  looking at these numbers. Would we still drop the   percentage rate after maybe five years much lower?  Because that was one of our goals. at the time of   approval with the council was you had higher rates  up front, but we pushed this out over what 30   years or so to get those lower rates later in the  term. What I would understand is if you adopted,   let's say, a five-year program in 2030, our target  would be that 5%. So, we'd be dropping from the 7%   in 29 to the 5% in 2030. And then um and again,  only mac market factors would could change that.   Okay. I'm comfortable with that. Council member  Tuttle. Thank you. I was going to ask about option   three, too. It seems like that's the only way we  could do this. Um, and I I'm just asking Gary,   this is the first time we've heard of this, right?  So, we'd have to kind of brainstorm, but from you   and your team, would three years make you feel  more comfortable or five? I I like predictability,   but five years, if you look back five years ago to  2020, who would have thought we went through what   we went through, right? And so three years almost  brings me a little bit more comfort, but you and   your team are truly the expert in in you know  predicting out to 2035. What would be your comfort   level? And I know we're putting you on the spot  right now because this hasn't been discussed. And   I'm going to let you rent your your option and not  own it, but upon first blush, would you say three   or five would make you most comfortable? Well, I  appreciate the comment about the it's my the team   that works. I get to work with every day being  the experts. Uh to the manager's comment, u market   flexibility and conditions, it's been volatile  to say the least over the last five years. That's   really is the hard part. Um, as long as we have  the ability to have this discussion when needed,   if necessary to to dig into other factors, I think  we can make either one work based on where we've   been. Three years might be a little bit more  uh predictable at this point, but I'd feel   comfortable with what we show here even at five  years. Council member Ballard. Thank you, Mayor.   Sorry, Gary. I'm going to have an unpopular uh  comment. I understand obviously the importance of   us paying the debt for this giant infrastructure,  you know, that that we've built, but it's really   hard for me to have this conversation with all  of the uncertainties just with the new water   treatment plant. Even though we're taking care  of it and you know it's being worked on and all   of that, it's just hard for me to increase the  rates. I know we have to pay for it. I get that,   but I just am having a hard time. Can you help  me out at all here? If your concerns are with   the new water treatment plant, um I would tell  you that even to the vice mayor's point, all of   our expected operations and maintenance costs are  included in everything that you're seeing here.   And I would reiterate that nothing has changed  with this projection because of anything that's   going on at the new water treatment plant. It  hasn't changed. This is where we've been tracking   all along whether the current issues had happened  or not. Um I mentioned uh recently that we're   fortunate that the council made very strategic  investments in our existing water treatment plant.   We did not the council did not choose to build  a new plant because that current plant was ready   to fall apart. Uh but as we moved forward, there  were very strategic investments made to make sure   that that plant could continue to operate as we  needed. not expecting to be where we are now, but   we needed to stay online and keep moving forward.  Um, as you all know, you've made the decision to   make convert that plant to emergency purposes in  the future. There's a lot of stuff, equipment,   things are going to continue to be used. So, all  good investments. Everything all of that all in   is a part of what we're talking about. It's not  impacting, it's not hasn't changed. It hasn't   increased this because of the Witchaw Waterworks.  Uh we will get the plant fixed. We will get it   operational. I don't know when that'll be. Uh but  we do not expect to have any change or impact to   cost or the rates as a result of it. Gary, could  you go back to the pie charts on our expenses? Just a reminder on the cost associated with  our infrastructure. that purple portion,   a lot of that is for underground expense. And I  don't know that any of us want to be in a position   to talk about continued erosion of the condition  of our underground infrastructure because we had   to short uh our rates uh in order to to address  those needs. And nobody wants another boil order   that we suffered through a few years ago. And  um there was a lot of discussion at that time   regarding uh reinvestment in our underground  infrastructure. And so what you're approving,   yes, has is does impact the debt for the  new treatment plants, but more importantly,   it finances what we need to do in order to  maintain the condition of acceptable condition   of our underground infrastructure. And that's I  think to be honest with you that was one of the   problems we had in delivering rate messages when  I first came here is there was a lot of discussion   about size of the increases but not looking  at the consequences of holding back on rate   uh increases and not fully funding the  utility in order to make it a sound business   and have predictable water source and sewage  treatment operations for our community. So,   um I I understand the concerns about the new  treatment plant and I I concur with what Gary's   saying regarding the protections and we've had  that discussion with the council regarding next   steps and how we protect ourselves going forward.  Um but these recommendations are not to make   uh um up for the inadequacy of the current  construction process and the fact that we don't   own that plant yet. It is still owned by Witchaw  Water Partners and they have the liability to   give us a plant that works. Um, and we will not  accept it until we know we have a long-term con   uh commitment on terms of operation of that plant.  I guess it's not as much the money making the   um increases, it's just the timing of it  just is kind of a struggle. So, thanks Vice Mayor Johnston. Thank you, mayor. Uh,  I would not favor doing a three to five year   um set rates for three to five years. I  think if you keep your eye on the ball,   then you are paying more attention to it. So, out  of sight, out of mind. If we don't look at it for   two or three years, it's out of out of sight,  out of mind. Um, I think we should look at it   every year. So, that that's where I sit. I would  um add a quick comment to that. Even if something   passed with either a three or five years, every  workshop every year this could come up. I mean,   we'd had this workshop in October. So, we got to  see all of this information prior to today and   the October workshop meeting was the time that we  got to see the options and also the rate increases   that were already expected. However, there was  um an addition to the expectation. Um, so I would   concur that we should always be looking at this  on a yearly basis and I would say that every year   there needs to be a workshop specific to water and  sewer. Um, and I would also encourage a workshop   specifically to public works. Um, because as Gary  mentioned earlier, I think a lot of folks um,   don't know how big the system, the public works  and utility system really is. You mentioned 4,000   lane miles of pipes, etc. And and I think that  it's important to remind our community that among   the core functions of local government are police,  fire, and public works, which means your streets,   your sewer, your water. And so I would like to  always have I think a um a workshop once a year   that focuses solely not just on water and sewer  but another one on just public works so streets um   and then another one on police and another one on  fire. I think it's good for the community to see   how their investment into these core functions of  local government are serving the people of Witchah   and how um not just how it's being utilized, but  the funds needed to pay for these services. So,   I just want to say thank you to your staff. Um,  and I know Esau mentioned a little bit earlier,   we here on this council are very grateful to your  public works and utility staff, and we're very   grateful, especially during the winter times. I  mean, just yesterday, uh, your crews were out uh   over the weekend treating roads, making sure that  everything uh was safe uh for our community as   much as possible. And so, I just want to say thank  you to your staff. Thank you. I value them, too.   Mayor, if I could just jump on that a little bit.  This is too big a business operation not to have   an annual report. So, we would definitely have we  would definitely bring something back and October   has always been a good time to come back. Um if  uh city manager Marsel is willing to do this,   we had already teed up as a request from the bench  previously uh discussions I probably starting in   January on our decision support tools and how  we make recommendations on the various classes   of infrastructure improvements. So that council  should expect that starting January or February   uh until we get through all of our uh  asset classes or infrastructure classes.   Thank you, city manager. Council member Hohheisel.  Thank you, Mayor. Um I I think what a lot of   people's consternation is with this is how much  it hits um poor people, working people, people   on a fixed income. I I've been consistent on it.  I've been a pain in your guys' rear for four years   on this. I think you can say that for sure. Um  but for example, uh cost of living adjustments,   people on social security or federal um disability  this year is 2.8% increase. Last year is 2.5%.   The year before that it's 3.2%. We look at  these increases and what we see is a steady   um share of people's income, especially people on  disability on fixed incomes that are going towards   these. We need to pay for this. I'm 100% on board  with that. I just would like to see something that   protects people a little more so that way um  less of their money is going to it. Um I have   a widow in my district who lives on $8,000 a year  in social security. Uh that's pretty tough to do,   especially with additional chunks taken out. And  so that's why I brought up the 10 years, how much   this is increasing over 10 years. that's going to  continue to cut into people, poor people, disabled   people, again, seniors living on the fixed income.  So, I'd like to see something that's a little more   um topendheavy as far as uh adjustments goes to  take a little less bite out of the working people,   out of the people who have less and less to work  with in the upcoming years. So, for whatever part   I have in this discussion, that's what I would  like to see. I might mention just one more time   real quick, Council Member Hois, and I appreciate  that. And I just came back to the slide and I   won't spend any time on it again. I know you know  this because we've talked about this, but uh we've   got over $60,000 a year in assistance program  funds available. We have seen a lot of folks   take advantage of this. I might mention again,  each year we have thousands of payment plans in   place. Not everybody stays with them. Those are no  finance cost payment plans too just to try to help   spread things out uh for folks at different times  of the year when it's challenged to make their   monthly payments. So we do a lot of our staff uh  is educated to make sure that they provide that   communication to all of our customers especially  those who might be challenged as you talk about.   So we're doing hopefully everything that we can  to also provide that type of assistance. Well,   I can if I Yeah, if I could, Mayor, um if you  look even in the time that we had supplemental   uh assistance from the federal government for  utility payments, we never got to the $80,000   range. You could, I think you could designate some  utility additional utility funds for assistance   programs that would be targeted similar to the  way Hto HTO H2O is targeted and I don't think   you'll hurt the performer. So you could take it  to an 80,000 or $100,000 level which would exceed   what the demand for the program has been and and  be able to help those who truly are struggling,   who are on lower fixed incomes. Um, and I think  our pro we have the program guidelines in place   to be able to do that, right? And it's also tough  to get the word out on these programs to a lot of   people who are needy. But even if they're on a  plan, they still have to pay that. That's that's   still money that they have to I know I agree, but  I'm not talking about a payment. I know. I know.   I was talking to Gary's earlier point. So again,  yeah, that's just my my opinion and I look forward   and on the projections and that's just that's what  gives me heartburn right there is just additional   funding that gets taken out of the lower end  people um who they don't water their yards   because they don't have the extra revenue and  whatnot. So that's where I get my my heartburn. Vice Mayor Johnston. Thank you, Mayor. Council  member Hosel, I I concur with your thoughts. It   does hit people harder. Even the raises we're  about to give or hopefully give. Firefighters,   you know, 3.5 plus 2.5, 6%, they're still going  to fall behind because the rate's going up 7%.   Or your own employees are, you know, 5 and  a half%. So I I do I do struggle with that.   Um hopefully we get down to that 5% or  lower uh get to where inflation is. Um secondly, I think to the mayor's point, I  think we can have a workshop every year,   but if we have to look at rates, that  will probably guarantee that we have   a workshop every year. U whereas if  they're set for three or five years,   it could just float by and we not have one because  they're already set. So we could, it depends. Um,   so I just think that would guarantee  that we do have to look at it every year. Any further questions from the  bench? I see none. Thank you,   Gary. We will now open it up for public comment. Um, my name's Doug Ballard. I live in Riverside  District 6. Kind of interested in water. I know   I've got a couple comments and a couple  questions that may seem to be unrelated,   but they're not. Uh my comments are um  to Gary what is what is our leakage rate Gary we'll continue with the whole questioning  okay what is our leakage rate how many miles speed   of uh water mane do we have 12 in and bigger over  40 years old and you may not know that but you   understand why I'm asking the question. Uh I know  we don't ever discuss it here and you and I have   talked about it before. One of the problems is  fescue grass. So I it's too bad that we couldn't   have years ago gone out and put a separate meter  on irrigation systems to water our grass. Uh that   is an extreme luxury and it's at the expense of  the rest of the community. We should have never   gone down that direction. We've wasted enormous  amounts of water by watering a grass. It should   be grown 200 miles north of here and has to be  over moan, over fertilized. A lot of people catch   the clippings, they send it to the dump, and that  nitrogen that they just put on their yard is going   to leech into the uh our water system. So, I wish  you would mention that doesn't have to be today.   Uh, I wish there was a more progressive rates on  water. Uh, I think people that use over, we'll   just say 15,000 gallons a month. I think they  should really pay for it because that affects the   uh our capacity especially in the summertime.  Uh, the other thing is, and I know this seems   unrelated, but it's one of the main problems.  If today if I had a magic wand and I could   uh put a 20-year moratorum on the city limits  that would solve a lot of problems that you guys   discuss on a weekly basis. I think the city  has doubled in size in the last 50 years and   um that creates a lot of problems. I work for  mechanical contractor so I know a little bit   about infrastructure. it gets old and uh by ma  making the pipes longer you have to add a lot of   other stuff to make sure the uh domestic water  sanitary sewer storm water plus there's always   streets usually on top of them so it really  creates a lot of problems anyway that's that's   all thank you Gary is there any way you can  answer some of the questions that were opposed talking about the uh comment about leaking  pipes. I don't have the data in front of me,   but what I will tell you it's that speaks  well to the manager's comment when we looked   at the pie chart about the bulk of our CIP  being for renewal and replacement. We have   a lot of underground pipes. We've talked  about 4,000 miles of water and sewer pipes.   Uh part of our decision support tool that the  manager also talked about is we do monitor leaks,   we monitor brakes. Um there's not enough resources  to make all of our pipes new. So we have to fix   them as we go. We have to strategically based  on that DST make the decisions at the right   time when pipes need to be replaced and need to  be upgraded. I could not agree more and we are   using that data. I don't have it in front of me.  That's a lot of data uh depending on specifically   what's being asked for, but we're trying to keep  our overall system in the best shape that we can   uh without looking at rate increases that would  be double what we're talking about today to be   in a different spot. And I think we've done a  really good job with that. Thank you, Gary. Any   further public comments? I see none. I'll bring  it back to the bench. Council member Glascock.   Thank you, mayor. I don't see any of my colleagues  on the board, so I will make a motion. I move that   the city of council approve option three from  2026 to 2030 for water and sewer rates placed   as presented by staff. That would be for 2026,  7.11, 2027, 7.52, 2028, 6.98, 20297, and 2035. Um,   and I would move that we place the ordinance on  first read and authorize the necessary signatures. Second motion and a second. Any further  discussion? Council member Tuttle. So,   you're going with option three  and five years? Correct. Would   you entertain a friendly amendment to  have it be three years to start and   try as a pilot maybe for three and  see how it goes? I'm open to that. I'm open to that. I I it just I think that  and I cannot obviously speak for Coun for   Vice Mayor Johnston, but five years, like I  said, is just a long time in our world. And   three just gives me a little more comfort. I  hear what Vice Mayor Johnston is saying about   staying on top of it and staying vigilant.  You know, I'm I'm so glad that somebody wakes   up and thinks about water and water rates  every day, right? Because we're not. Um,   so I'm sure you'll keep us vigilant and Gary will  make sure that you know it's relate to us. But   three just provides me with a little comfort if  you would entertain a friendly amendment. If not,   I understand, but I just thought I'd mention  it. Thank you. Can I add an additional friendly   amendment that every October we will have  a workshop regarding water and sewer rates? I'm okay with both of those.  I'll maintain my second. All right. So, we have a motion and a second.   Any further discussion? I see none.  Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 4 to three. Madame  clerk, please call the next item. Change order number one and transfer of funds for  biological nutrient removal plant 2 package two.   Mayor and council members Gary Jansen. Again, I  predict this item will take much less time than   the previous one. I think that it should.  So, I talked before about our BNR project,   biological nutrient removal project. We are  about halfway through uh overall delivery of   the the program itself which is multiple projects.  This is the first change order that we've brought   forward and I'll explain kind of how that's worked  and the timing and the reasons why. So the BNR   program consists of six construction packages. Uh  today we're talking specifically about package two   which the bid was approved in March of 2024  and package four approved in June of 2024.   uh the contractor for these projects, same  contractor, identified value engineering items   for each package. That was a critical part of  our program moving forward to make sure we had   value engineering practices in place, saving  overall program funds. Construction contracts   also include a work change directive process  that allows the contractor to begin work prior   to issuance of a formal change order. Projects of  this size need the ability to keep moving forward.   This has worked well for us on other projects  including the water treatment plant. Package two   focuses on aging infrastructure and odor control  particularly at plant two. Package four focuses on   uh new solids by dewatering system. Work change  directives for package two to this point now as   we've gone along and kept moving forward have  exceeded the value engineering savings. That   is why we're here to request this first change  order. Package two, change order number one,   is made up of 22 work change directives. The  two largest work change directives. I mentioned   this in a previous item is nearly $500,000 for  emergency bypass pumping. I'll talk about more   details on both of these in just a moment. $2.5  million for clarifier mechanism rehab. Not the   same type of clarifier we talk about in the water  treatment process, just so you know. Package four   change order. Then we have a deduct based on value  engineering of $1.3 million which will factor into   this overall funding which you will see on the  last slide in July of talking about the emergency   bypass pumping in July of this year. Multiple  failures occurred at the influence screenings   building. A replacement with new is planned  with a BNR project. Our timing obviously was   not ideal to have that failure. But to the point  I talked about before during our rates discussion,   even with our best intentions and efforts, we have  a large enough system. We have uh uh assets from a   certain area that we will see failures. It's going  to happen. We just don't know when and to what   magnitude. Uh that will be replaced in the next  few months. The temporary emergency bypass pumping   was required in order to install spare parts to  keep the old equipment operating. Bypass pumping   of up to 30 million gallons a day of waste water  that's coming to this facility is a significant   effort. Uh and the car costs can add up quickly.  Doninger wildcat provided timely bypass pumping   during this time saved us a lot of headache and  troubles that could have resulted from not being   able to do that. The clarifier mechanisms uh  for also for plant two we have three primary   clarifiers that were to have rehabilitation work  performed on the upper portion of the rotating   mechanisms that was the part above water level.  As the basins were drained, it was discovered that   considerable rehabilitation would also be required  below the water line. This was not expected but   there was no way for us to get to it during the  point in time that we're designing the project.   This is requiring additional work by change order.  The cost to replace uh with brand new mechanisms   was similar to the additional rehabilitation,  but new mechanisms have an eight-month lead   time. The contractor was able to rearrange the  construction schedule to minimize delay. We'll   still be able to complete package 2 within the  overall BNR schedule, which is a good thing.   We've chosen made the decision to move forward  with new mechanisms as opposed to rehabilitation   uh because the cost is effectively the same. The  cost of the change order for package 2 is just   over $3.2 million which is 2.8% of that specific  budget for package 2. The deduct amount of the   change order for package 4 is 3% or just over $1.3  million. Collectively, the net increase, assuming   your approval today in construction contracts  is just under $2 million, which is 610th of 610   of 1% of the overall BNR program. And the total  budget funding is available within the overall BNR   project budget, especially with our ability to use  the funding from package 4 that's now available.   Staff recommends city council approve change order  number number number number one for package two,   change order number one for package four and  authorize the necessary signatures. Uh we are   still still tracking for an overall completion  in 2027. We're moving forward with odor control   improvements now. We'll start to see should see  some uh noticeable improvements to odor control in   the first quarter of 2026. So we're excited about  that. I'd be happy to stand for any questions.   Thank you, Gary. Questions for staff? I see  none. We'll open it up for public comment. I   see none. I'm bringing it back to the bench.  The BNR facility resides in council member   Hoheisel's district. Seems like it's district 3  day today. Um, thank you, Gary. I appreciate that.   Just a note to everybody, this is still  within the overall budget of the project. Um,   so I move that the city council  approve the transfer of funds,   change orders, and authorize the necessary  signatures. Second motion and a second.   Any further discussion? I see none.  Madame clerk, please open the role. I'm going to ask our council members, do you  want a 20m minute break right now or in a bit?   Okay, we'll take a 20 minute break  and return uh at 12:40. Thank you. Hello. Good afternoon, Mayor, City Council.  Tim Kellums, uh, Poly Forks and Utilities. For   the record, uh, Failing Ross Park is located in  downtown Witchaw and features a sunken walkway,   uh, with large water fountains. Uh for those of  you that have been to a number of these uh kind of   across the country, they are at the time when they  were put in, they have um they were great ideas,   but over time a lot of cities have kind of  worked to renovate them. They do cost quite   a bit. These sunken uh uh large water fountains  and things like that. While they are pretty,   they do uh take quite a bit to maintain and  they are pretty stoutly in their construction.   Um, in 2023 and 2024, CIP funds were uh allocated  to the park for improvements u after further   valuation estimated improvements uh exceeded the  cost uh that was originally in the CIP. Uh working   with the community um and the local NAACP branch  uh worked together put a plan to do fundraising.   Um that was a couple years ago. uh they have  uh been working on the uh on their museum on   the Kansas African-American Museum and um anyways  funding has not um come along as as we had kind of   anticipated. Um so we are looking to uh reallocate  these funds for Finley Ross Park. staff recommends   reallocating them to uh for the funding for  Friendly Ross Park to uh address deferred   maintenance and enhance a price water junior  memorial park as well as utility improvements   over at Chester Lewis and Freton Square Park. Uh  just wanted to provide a graphic here uh knowing   that these two are the the next closest spaces.  They are uh right along Douglas. They do get lots   of uh activity. Uh obviously a price woodard  uh junior memorial park is along the river and   um we know that with the recent renovations for  Chester Lewis uh there's been a lot of activity   over there especially working um with the school.  Um so we feel that this would be an appropriate   use for refund or for for reallocating uh these  funds for Finley Ross Park knowing that we   um don't have enough funding to move forward  with the larger improvements that were uh planned   there. um funding. Uh we would still continue  to do what we can to maintain Finley Ross Park,   but in terms of a full scale renovation or things  like that, that would then be um deferred to a   later date. anticipated repairs and modification  at a price wood Junior Memorial Park would include   a number of things, but I did want I do want to  note that we will do a site analysis and public   engagement before I get into these to just make  sure that we are tracking. But this is staff's   general list on things that can be approved  and we'd like to address at a price woodard.   Uh removal of the former restroom reallocation or  relocation of the existing electrical closet. Um   that one is an eyesore. Um, if you've been over  there, you know it's it's not in great condition,   especially now that we have the new uh  restrooms there on site that is obsolete. Um,   adjusting puh pedestrian circulation access.  If you've walked down through there, um, you'll   notice that while it is grandfathered in for,  uh, accessibility due to its construction date,   um, we can do better. We can have better access  throughout the site. Uh, in terms of pedestrian   circulation, there are a number of pertaining  walls and things like that. little hiding spots,   things along those lines, uh that we can help  improve to help make sure that it it it's a more   uh safer space and feels safer uh when people  are in it. Elimination of unused utilities. We do   have a number of utilities that run through there,  especially uh pertaining to electrical closet and   some of the uh irrigation out there. So, we'd like  to look into those and make sure that we can get   out what we can, make sure that we don't aren't  leaving things just to just to sit in the ground.   addition modification of the retainables. As I  mentioned, that kind of goes into um uh sight   circulation as well as um just having eyes in the  park, make sure that we are providing a safe space   and people that are in there feel safe. Uh it's  amazing how uh modifying walls or cutting down   shrubs and relocating them or choosing how a  site uh is put together uh can really change   the atmosphere of of a space. The other thing is  that we are experiencing some erosion throughout   the site. So retaining walls are being strategic  locations to help with uh retaining walls and help   with those erosions that are h the erosion that's  happening on site. Uh addition and modification of   site amenities looking at at benches. Are there  other ways that we can activate the space more?   Are there ways that we can uh encourage more  use of the site? Uh so that's kind of where a   site analysis would be done to kind of find those  weak points and make sure that we can highlight   um or minimize uh the weak points and highlight  uh the great amenities especially all the the   nice mature trees that are out there. And one  of the big things about this would also include   um relocating uh the doam drugstore sit in lunch  counter sculpture to the park. Uh so that would be   a um one of the a main component as part of this  project. Uh and as I mentioned earlier, uh we will   be doing site analysis and the public engagement  uh to help make sure that we're meeting the   expectations of the community. Financial and legal  considerations. The 2026 through 2035 adopted   CIP has a million dollars in ongoing projects for  Finley Ross Park and that is funded by geo bonds.   uh staff recommends reallocating and initiating  uh 900,000 to a Price Woodard Junior Memorial   Park and then the remaining 100,000 we go to  Chester Lewis Refection Square Park. Um the   improvements at Chester Lewis would be to um look  at reconfiguring and relocating the uh electrical   and irrigation components. right now they're  they're not in a super great spot for staff to   uh to address maintenance and uh be efficient at  doing their job right now. Um relocating that into   a better spot would uh help increase productivity  for the staff instead of having to go through   uh the current location where it is now. Law  department has reviewed and approved the bonding   resolution as to form and recommend that city  council approve the projects, adopt the bonding   resolution, authorize the necessary signatures.  have stand for any questions. Thank you, Tim.   Council member Glasco. Thank you, Mayor. First,  I wish there was a photo of the former restroom   um near uh Aprice Woodard Park because it is  incredibly dull updated. So, I'm glad to see   that removed. Um especially with the development  happening on the west bank. I think matching that   on the east bank is a very positive move. Um and  especially the removal of that restroom. I did   have one quick question specifically about Finley  and Arice Woodard. There's two large structures   there that have historically been used as water  fountains. Obviously, the city is moving away   from that towards conservation. Is there a plan  to what is the plan with those water fountains?   Is it to completely remove the water fountains  and establish something new? Can you maybe   elaborate on that a little bit more? Sure. No,  I I don't think that there's plans to eliminate   those water fountains. I think we're still um  under the guidance of uh the water conserving   um policies. So, if that isn't enacted, then we  would then shut down the water fountains. But,   I think while we're still uh approved to do so  um through the watering restrictions, we would   then have them on and working. Okay. I do have a  question for the manager. What are our policies   regarding fountains that the city owns? Because  I don't I don't foresee in the future that we're   going to be turning those back on anytime soon. Um  actually I think now that we're in a different uh   stage we actually could consider putting fountains  re restoring our fountains. Um I don't think   um given our current um water conditions that  um it warrants us not having them operate next   year. Okay. However, you know, we have, in fact,  I've shared with a few of you what some cities   have done creatively with old fountains um that  sometimes are difficult to maintain. And there's   some space uh or some um um creative ways of  creating of establishing uh gathering areas   and focal points in parks that don't don't have to  necessarily be traditional fountains. And I think   we could explore something like that here. U would  not be a big maintenance issue and actually could   turn out to be an attraction. Yeah, I mean I'd be  very interested in exploring that um and getting   away from maybe what we've done previously.  So thank you. Placem kept working for that. Any further questions for Tim? I see  none. We'll open it up for public comment.   I see none. We'll bring it back to the  bench. Um, this is in Council Member   Johnson's district. Thank you, Mayor. Thank  you, Tim. Um, just for the record, I have   uh spoken with the NAACP about Finley  Ross and this potential action from the   council and they are good with that. They are  continuing to work towards their efforts. So,   if there is a policy change for future council  on fountains, um, make sure that you loop council   member Shepard in. uh because he'll be working  with them on that because they're looking through   a design piece of Finley Ross. Um but with that,  I am supportive of this. I think this is a good   thing and especially on the east bank. So, I would  move that the city council approve the projects,   adopt the bonding resolutions, and authorize  the necessary signatures. Second. Motion and   a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes. 70. Before we move, I'm going  to use my point of privilege and just welcome   the Southeast High School students who are now  in attendance at our Tuesday council meeting.   Thank you for joining us. Uh they're here to learn  about civic engagement and civics education. So,   thank you for joining us for a live  city council meeting. Madame Clerk,   please call the next item. 2026  capital improvement program funding   for heavy equipment replacement  and snow equipment replacement. Good afternoon, mayor, members of the city  council. I'm Erin Henning with the Department of   Public Works and Utilities. Today, we are seeking  your initiation of two recurring and longstanding   capital improvement programs that fund the  replacement of aging fleet assets. The first of   those projects applies to heavy equipment assets  used in non-enterprise funded operations. Those   assets include equipment like the dump trucks and  skid steers used in the maintenance and repair of   city streets and parks, aerial bucket trucks used  to service traffic signals and outdoor lighting,   and tow trucks that serve the city's entire  rolling fleet. Of the roughly 1,400 vehicles   and equipment assets comprising the city's  to total rolling stock, oh, sorry about that.   About 239 presently meet the non-enterprise  heavy equipment designation. Because they   are relatively expensive, longived assets, debt  financing is used to support their replacement.   The adopted CIP includes just over $35.5 million  in heavy equipment replacement funding over   the next 10 years and just over 3.9 million is  budgeted for 2026. Both the recurring CIP budgets   and targeted equipment replacements are informed  by an analytical model which we refer to as the   fleet decision support tool or DST. The DST was  developed several years ago in collaboration with   Witchah State University to help staff optimize  replacement intervals and the balance between low   ownership costs and high operational viability.  At present, that optimized replacement interval   for heavy equipment is 13 years. As shown in the  table, the DST prioritizes the replacement of 26   heavy equipment assets in 2026. These assets  have met or exceeded that optimized 13-year   replacement interval and include multiple dump  trucks, skid steer loaders, and other equipment   essential to various operations performed  by the departments of park and recreation   and public works and utilities. Before finalizing  these replacement decisions though, staff will be   conducting an intensive assessment of these and  other heavy equipment assets in addition to age.   The intensive assessment, which is an industry  best practice, considers factors like total miles   driven, total hours of operation, total service  cost to date, and overall physical condition. So,   as staff continues that analysis over the next  few months, if another asset should end up scoring   lower on the comprehensive condition assessment  or another asset should unexpectedly fail beyond   reasonable repair, the final mix of replacements  may change a little from what's shown here to best   ensure that we're making the right replacements at  the right time and maximizing those investments.   A few examples of heavy equipment targeted  for replacement in 2026 include a 20-year-old   roll off, sorry, roll back wrecker  or tow truck, which is used by fleet   maintenance staff to recover disabled city  equipment via a tilting hydraulic flatbed.   uh 17-year-old concrete mixer truck that  is employed by street maintenance staff to   ensure the coste effective and timely delivery  of concrete used in the repair of city streets,   bike paths, and other assets. And finally, a  14-year-old spray truck that is used by park   maintenance staff to control weeds and parks  and other green spaces throughout the city. The uh second CIP project is much smaller by  comparison and funds the replacement of aging   snow and ice removal equipment. The adopted CIP  includes nearly 2.5 million in snow equipment   replacement replacement funding over the next 10  years and just over 112,000 is budgeted for 2026.   These replacements are similarly informed by  the fleet decision support tool which currently   prioritizes the replacement of two so two salt  spreader and four snowplow attachments in 2026.   All of these has have exceeded the optimized  15-year replacement interval for snow equipment   and all are of course critical to the city's  winter response efforts. Again, the adopted   CIP includes just over 3.9 million for heavy  equipment replacement and just over 112,000 for   snow equipment replacement in 2026. Staff requests  initiating the full amounts. And staff recommends   that the city council approve the projects,  adopt the bonding resolutions, and authorize   the necessary signatures. And I'm happy to stand  for any questions. Thank you, Erin. Questions for   staff? I see none. We'll open it up now for public  comment. I see none. I'm bringing it back to the   bench. Council member Johnson. Thanks, Mayor. I  did have one question. Um, if we initiate those   funds and you make the order, what is the wait  time on that? Is it a number of years or would   that all be delivered next year? uh kind of varies  depending on what the piece of equipment is, but I   would guesstimate that we're around six months to  maybe pushing a year and a half depending on what   the asset is. Okay. Thank you. With that, I will  go ahead and move that the city council approve   the projects, adopt the bonding resolutions,  and authorize the necessary signatures. Second   motion and a second. Any further discussion? I  see none. Madame clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk, please call  the next item. International Association   of Firefighters Local 135 Union Memorandum of  Agreement. Good afternoon, council and mayor. I'm   Jason Hood from the HR department. I actually have  the next three items for you, but the first one is   the fire contract. So, let's get started. Uh the  duration of the contract is for three years from   2025 to 2028. It was ratified by the IFFF members  on November 1st, 2025. The agreement covers 490   employees within the fire department and the  agreement provisions will be incorporated in the   revised budget. Uh highlights of the agreement.  The GPA increase for 2025 is going to be 3.5 GPA.   uh a merit a merit step movement equal to  2.5% is provided to eligible employees on   their anniversary date. OEP employees, and those  are the people at the top of their salary range,   uh receive a $750 bonus on their anniversary  date. In 2026, it's the same at 3.5% GPA. Um   a merit increase equal to 2.5% and OEP employees  receive a $750 bonus on their anniversary date.   And for 2027, 3.5% GPA, um a 2.5% uh merit step  and OEP employees receive a $750 bonus on their   anniversary date. Uh there is a new dawning  and doawing pay provision. It pay provides   pay for required pre and post shift activities.  So firefighters working a 24-hour shift receive   4.6153 6153 hours of pay per pay period at the  firefighters hourly rate and employees on a 40   hour schedule receive 3.2966 hours per pay period  and dawning and doawing pay is included in the   regular rate of pay affecting overtime and pension  calculations. This pay cannot be combined with any   other contractual or statutory compensation for  preparation for for preparation standby time or   similar activities. Longevity pay. So longevity is  calculated by dollar amount multiplied by years of   service per month. So originally uh at six years  it was $4 is going to eight. Um it was uh at at 11   years it goes from 11 to $13. At 15 years it goes  from 13 to $15 and at 19 years it goes from $15 to   $17. Maternity leave uh provides eight weeks of  paid maternity leave for qualifying events which   could include birth adoption, foster placement,  miscarriage. Only one employee per qualifying   event may receive paid leave. Employee must  have 180 days of service to be eligible. Written   request must be submitted 30 days in advance  except for unanticipated miscarriages. Leave must   be taken within six months of the event and must  be taken continuously unless approved otherwise.   FMLA runs concurrently with paid maternity leave  and unused leave is not compensated and cannot   be donated. Recommendation uh is to approve  the 2025 2028 memorandum of agreement between   the city and local 135 international association  of firefighters. And I will stand for questions.   Thank you Jason. Questions for staff beginning  with council member Hoheisle. Thank you mayor.   Uh first can the kids from Southeast keep it down?  I mean, there's a lot of excitement going on here,   but uh please try and hold your your energy down  a little bit there. Um second, um can we go back   to slide 148 real quick? 148. Okay. Now, with the  maternity leave, um requests must be submitted 30   days in advance. Does that usually do they put  requests in around six months? I know sometimes   there's preeie sudden um deliveries. My wife  and I kind of had one ourselves. So, right. So,   the minimum is 30 days, but if they wanted to go  if they if someone provided um advanced notice,   that that's fine as well. So, if like you know  they're sitting there, they haven't done it and   you month seven comes along and the wife goes into  labor early, how does that work out with this?   Um, well, they're supposed to provide written  notice uh 30 days prior to the event that that   they want the leave for. Um, so it might be a  problem if they did it like 20 days in advance,   it it could be a problem. Okay. So, if if they're  pregnant and it's three months in and then they   can go ahead and submit the 30-day notice in  advance. Yes. Okay. And then the other one,   um, I'm going to be asking this for the next  two as well. So during your presentation,   you might just go ahead and say what was the  union vote the percentage when it went before.   I do not know. I do not know that. I am so  sorry. But but I can get it for you. Okay.   Thank you. Any other questions? I see none.  We'll now open it up for public comment. Thank you, Mayor Woo. City Council, City Manager.  Uh my name is Ted Bush, president of Witchaw Local   135. I want to begin thanking everyone involved  in negotiating this contract. Thank you to the   firefighters who volunteered their time and effort  to serve on our negotiating team and our lawyer   Joanie Franklin for her support throughout the  process. Also want to thank Jason Hood and Andrew   Hudzmith. Jason, I appreciate your openness  to a fair and candid conversations. You were   always open and willing to hear our concerns, and  because of that, we reached a contract that was   approved by a large majority of the membership,  95%. Together, we made real progress in improving   pay and benefits and moving closer to regional  industry standards. But there is a lot more work   to to be done. Since 1999, Witchaw's fire alarm  load has increased by 90%. Operational staffing   during that time, the firefighters making the  alarms only increased by 13%. On many days,   due to budget decisions, units are taken off  track, leaving even fewer firefighters to respond.   This is not only dangerous for firefighters,  but most importantly for the citizens we serve.   Also, we must reach a point where the city fully  accepts and acknowledges that firefighting causes   cancer. The CDC classifies our occupation as  a group one carcinogen. That means cancer is   an occupational hazard unlike any other job in  the city of Witchaw. This greater cancer risk   not only affects us now but well into retirement.  With the help of Councilwoman Becky Total, we have   made strong progress in our health and wellness  initiatives, especially around cancer detection,   treatment, and prevention. We attempted to secure  a contract provision that would ensure the city   would cover sick leave for these members who are  stricken with occupational cancer, but we weren't   able to get there. Um, through dialogue, we are  hopeful for change in the future. Our members   risk everything to protect this community and at  the very least the city should meet them with that   same level of commitment when they need it most.  We are grateful for the progress we've made and   we're proud of the direction we are headed, but  there's still important work left to be done. We   are ready to keep the conversation going and work  together to move this department forward and keep   Witchah as safe as possible for everyone we  serve. Thank you. Any questions? Thank you,   Ted. Council member Tuttle. Thank you, Ted, for  being here today. I appreciate all you do. Um,   and and thank you for the kudos, but I also  want to give a kudos to Chief Tammy Snow,   who's in the back. I think the three of us  have worked exceptionally well together,   and it's certainly been an honor to work  with and learn from you. And Chief Snow,   I say all the time, y'all are the  experts and I can be the advocate. Um,   regarding council member wholeheisel, 63.5% of  the IFFF voted, 95.7 said yes, and 4.3 voted no. We'll continue with public comment. I  see none. I have just one question for   Jason. Yes. Can you just tell us what's  the starting pay for firefighters? Uh,   let me check. See if I have it here. I do not think that I have that information.  Let me see if it's on the green sheet. I I'll have to get that for you. I would like to  get that number so that our students who are here   from Southeast High School uh know that there's  a career path for them in firefighting. And the   starting pay for firefighters is $22.39. $22.39.  Thank you very much. Appreciate it. On that,   I'm sorry, mayor. On that also, if uh the  chief, don't we have a high school program   that that helps with firefighters, kids who are  interested in entering the firefighter field? Good afternoon. Tammy Snow, fire chief. Um,  yes, South High School. We support the South   High School program. Um, and it's a year-long  program. So, okay. Just south. Yes. Thank you,   Council Member Tuttle. You just a quick question,  and I'm sorry if I don't know the answer to this.   I think I know the answer, but I just want to  confirm. I had a community member reach out to   me and say that this is a sort of a it's a pilot  for just maternity leave and not paternity leave   at this time. Is that correct? Well, I I wouldn't  call it a pilot, but but it is for maternity and   not paternity. Okay. Thank you so much. Just  wanted to make sure I was getting it right. Council member Johnson. Thanks,  Mayor. Appreciate it, Jason. Um I   am supportive of this. I just wanted to say  congratulations to Ted publicly on being the   president again. Congrats on that. And then  also just to let the Southeast folks know,   this is the house of Northeast Magnet, the  only undefeated school in the city of Witchah. We will now close public comment and bring it  back to the bench. Any other council members   would like to add any comments? If not, I will  simply say um I'm very appreciative of the   firefighters who serve our community and I'm very  glad to see that there was a lot of conversations   between multiple parties to reach this agreement  that is three years in length. Um, so with that,   I will move that the city council approve the  proposed 2026 2028 memorandum of agreement   between the local 135 International Association of  Firefighters in the City of Witchah and authorized   necessary signatures. Second motion and a second.  Any further discussion? I see none. Madame clerk,   please open the role. Motion passes 70.  Madame clerk, please call the next item.   Teamsters Transit Local 795 memorandum of  agreement. Yes. Again, Jason Hood with human   resources. So, the duration of this agreement  is three years from 2025 to 2028. It was ratifi   ratified by the transit members on November 9th,  2025. The agreement covers 110 employees in the   Witchah transit department and the agreement  provisions will be incorporated in the revised   budget. Some highlights. So the uh in 2025  the annual pay adjustment the the GPA is 3%   with a 2.5% merit increase and $500 bonus for OEP  employees. Um in 2026 the same 3% 2.5% merit $500   bonus for OEP employees. And in 2027 3% GPA 2.5%  merit $500 bonus for OEP employees. Longevity only   had one change to it. The pay doubled from $2 to  $4 per month per year for six years of service.   Uh minimum pay provision was added. Trainer pay  increased from $1 to $2 an hour for instructing   trainees and promotion and vacancies uh for the  maintenance position adds $1.50 50 cents an hour   shift differential for mechanics A and B working  the second shift which is from 4:30 p.m. to 100   a.m. There was a an additional personal holiday  given. The uniform allowance was increased.   Full-time employees increased from $325 to $400  and part-time employees increased from $200 to   275. Bilingual pay was made consistent with the  bilingual pay across the city organization. The   bilingual pay provision establishes a pay of $135  per month after completing competency testing and   receiving designation by the director. Uh a  new article of injury leave was added to the   contract. It follows the majority of the injury  leave language in the teamsters airport memorandum   of agreement. provides up to 90 days of full  salary for job related injuries and after 90   days pay paid transitions to workers comp. It is  the staff's recommendation that uh city council   approved the 2025 2028 memorandum of agreement  between the city and teamsters transit union local   795 and I will stand for any questions. Thank you  Jason. Questions for staff? I see none. We'll open   it up for public comment. I see none. We'll bring  it back to the bench. With that, I move that the   city council approve the proposed 2025 2028  memorandum of agreement between the Teamsters   Union Local 795 Transit and the city of Witchaw  and authorized necessary signatures. Second   motion and a second. Any further discussion? I  see none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk, please call  the next item. Teamsters airport local 795   memorandum of agreement. Jason Hood with human  resources. Duration of this agreement is three   years from 2025 to 2028. It was ratified by  the airport members November 17th of 2025. The   agreement covers 24 employees in Witchah  airport department and the agreement pro   provisions will be incorporated in the revised  budget. So GPA increases in 2025 go to 4%. Uh   there's a merit step involved at 2.5% uh  provided to eligible employees on their   anniversary date. And OEP employees receive a  $750 bonus on their anniversary date. In 2026,   again it's 4% GPA, 2.5% merit increase with  the $750 bonus at the OEP for on on their   anniversary date. And in 2027, it goes down  to 3% GPA, uh 2.5% of a merit increase. and   Ostep employees receive a $750 bonus on their  anniversary date. Longevity pay is calculated   by a dollar amount multiplied by years of  service per month. Um, six years goes from   $4 to $5. 11 years goes from $11 to $13. 15 years  from 13 to $15 and 19 years from $15 to $17. For purposes of overtime, paid leave of absence  shall be included in computing hours worked except   for sick leave or Kelly days. Procedures for  determining mandatory overtime and shift overtime   were separated to provide clarity of operation  and expectation. Field training officer hourly   rate increase from $75, I'm sorry, 75 cents per  hour to $3 an hour. Acting pay. When employees   are assigned a temporary duty of a higher  position, they will receive an additional $2 an   hour for those hours worked. Well days will acrue  quarterly as opposed to annually. Recommendation   uh to approve the 2025 2028 memorandum of  agreement between the city and Teamsters Airport   Union Local 795. And I'll stand for questions.  Thank you, Jason. Questions for staff? I see none.   We'll open it up for public comment. There is  none. We'll bring it back to the bench. With that,   um I'm just going to add just one quick  commentary. Um I know that oftentimes we   talk about even earlier water rate increases  and the percentages. Um and so I just want to   be cognizant that uh property taxes also went up.  Um, and so it is because we have to pay fairly our   uh individuals who work for the city of Witchah.  And so I am very grateful to the HR staff in   working with multiple entities and getting three  different contracts before the council to approve   today. I know it's a lot of hard work. Um, and  again, negotiations uh require compromise. And so   I appreciate Jason going back to the table and  making sure that um all employees are treated   fairly um and compensated appropriately. So thank  you very much. With that, I move that the city   council approved the proposed 2025 2020 memorandum  of agreement between the Teamsters Union Local 795   airport and the city of Witchaw and authorized the  necessary signatures. Second motion and a second.   Any further discussion? I see none. Madame clerk,  please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame   clerk, please call the next item. PUD 2025-17,  a zone change request in the city from multif   family residential district and general commercial  district to planned unit development to create   the 944 South Topeka planned unit development  number 149 generally located one block south or   correction east of South Broadway and three blocks  south of East Kellogg at 944 South Topeka. Hello,   good afternoon Scott Wadel from the planning  department. So, as you heard uh for this case,   the applicant is requesting reszone the property  from B multifamily and GC general commercial to   PUB, which is custom zoning. Uh this item is  being heard today because the DAB and planning   commission's recommendations are different.  And the note here that the DAB had a tide vote,   did not uh pass a motion or recommendation  for this one. In addition, protests have been   received. And then the third reason is because  the state the case was deferred to this date.   In terms of the request, the applicant has  indicated they're requesting the zone change   primarily for two reasons. The first is in order  to bring the non-conforming church into compliance   with the unified zoning code by creating custom  zoning development requirements and the second   is to permit additional zoning flexibility for  future development on the property to the east.   Terms of the property site is generally located as  you can see here to the south to the north and the   east of the intersection of Topeka and Gilbert.  The site is made up of multiple ownership parcels   approximately 1.18 acres in size developed with  a church parking lot and a green space. And the   existing church building is listed on the National  Register of Historic Places. In terms of context,   properties to the north are zone B multif family  and developed with single family dwellings.   Properties to the west across South Tobica are  zone B and developed with single family residences   and a duplex. Property to the south across East  Gilbert is zone B and developed with multif   family a multifamily dwelling as well as another  property which is zoned GC and developed with a   multi-tenant commercial building. Property to the  southeast is zone GC and developed with a single   family dwelling. Properties to the east across  South Emporia are zone GC and B and developed   with single family dwellings. In terms of the  staff report, it provides information about the   proposed use of portable shipping containers for  housing at the site. Also provides information   about the applicant modifications to their  initial zone change request, landscaping,   and also screening information. In terms of  review, on August 28th, the planning commission   held the public hearing for this item and deferred  the case to their September 25th meeting. Purpose   of the deferral was to allow the applicant an  opportunity to address concerns with nearby   property owners regarding the appearance of the  portable storage containers. Five members of the   public spoke at that meeting with concerns about  having storage shipping containers as dwelling   units parked on the also parking on the nearby  street and questions about the completeness of   the application. On September 25th, the planning  commission recommended approval of the request   with an additional condition of approval and  that vote was 1201 one abstension. The MAPC   added language that the storage containers shall  be required to use shiplap sighting in either wood   or composite as illustrated by the exhibits  submitted by the applicants at that meeting.   Two members of the public spoke against the  request with similar concerns with similar   concerns of having storage containers as dwellings  and not enough parking for tenants on the site. On   October 1st, the district advisory board reviewed  the case and again did not and as mentioned before   did not approve a motion to recommend denial or  approval of the application. The vote was five to   five on a motion to recommend denial. Two members  of the public spoke regarding the application.   One was against the application citing concerns  of crime and the design of the shipping containers   and also parking. One person spoke in favor of  the request sighting having the vacant building   be occupied and in use was greater positive than  having it be empty. On October 13th, the Witchaw   Historic Preservation Board heard the case. The  recommendation of HPB was to approve the request   and that vote was 311. So there's one abstension.  The board limited their view to the existing   church property. 20 protest petitions were  received uh against the request for the resoning.   13 of the properties of the properties represented  were within the protest calculation area and the   calculated area equals 34% of the total protest  area which exceeds the state threshold of 20%.   Therefore requires a super majority in order to  approve. So six of seven votes. On November 6th,   city council heard this case and deferred  it to today. And in addition, the council   member who made the motion expressed the desire to  provide time for the applicant to meet with MABC   to discuss the unique code requirements related  to the proposed use of shipping containers for   residential uses. On December 1st, so yesterday,  the applicant met with MABCD staff and discussed   the permitting requirements for using shipping  containers as residences. The discussion also   included a review of possible sighting and  engineering. So in terms of council action,   it's recommended the city council adopt  the findings of the planning commission,   approve the planning commission recommended PUD  text, place the ordinance on the first reading,   authorize the necessary signatures, and instruct  the city clerk to publish the ordinance after   approval on the second reading. Again, that  requires six of seven votes. Alternatives   include overriding the MAPC, adopting alternative  findings, and denying the PUD, which would require   five of seven votes. In addition, you can also  override the MAPC, adopt alternative findings,   and approve the PUD with modified text. That  would require six of seven votes. Or, as always,   you can return the case to the MAPC for additional  consideration. Requires just a simple majority.   Just a note about process. that the public hearing  takes place at the planning commission and the   city council does not typically receive public  comments on zoning items. So, here's the aerial   image of the subject site. Here's a zoning map.  Here's the map from the comprehensive plan showing   new residentials recommended in the area. Here's  the site plan that was submitted as part of the   PUD application. Here's the protest map. Again,  the protest was over the 20% threshold. Here are   illustrations that were submitted by  the applicant of the proposed units,   shipping container units. There's a number of  illustrations, so we'll just go through those   pretty quickly. Here are photos of the site.  Here's the existing church with some of the   boarded up windows and doors. Here's the back side  of the building. So, this is the educational wing looking up the street at some of the  residential uses. looking north from   the parking lot, across the street, and  looking to the south. And with that,   I'll stand for any questions. Thank  you, Scott. Questions for staff. I see none. This resides in council member  Hohheisel's district. Thank you, Mayor. Um,   thank you, Scott. Thank you, everybody who's been  working on this. This is um a unique case. Um, and   as such, um, I'm glad that you guys were able to  chat with the applicant about some of the unique,   um, circumstances around some of these units  here. Uh, for example, the the units cannot be   grouped together side by side because that's what  would make a required fire suppressant system.   But if they are simply stacked on their own  standalone, then that means there is no need for   fire suppressant. Correct. So, long story short,  there's a lot of uh moving parts with this. Um,   they did meet yesterday afternoon. I know  they've tried to reach out and talk with   some of the council members up here. I know  there's plenty of people up here with questions   and concerns about this. So, I want to make  sure that uh everybody has due opportunity   to actually reach out to um the applicant and  discuss some of their concerns with them. So,   I will be delaying this for one week um just to  make sure that we give due process to everything.   The applicant is here and if anybody from  council wishes to ask a question at this time,   that's fine with me. Also, if you guys just want  to wait and reach out sometime this week as well,   whatever you guys are comfortable  with. Council member Glascock. Um,   Vice Mayor Johnston and I had a teams call with  the applicant yesterday after that meeting. Um,   I don't know if the other council members have  met with the applicant. Um, but we also received   emails uh from multiple residents uh around the  area who were opposed to this project. Um, and so   I wanted to put that information out there. I am  supportive of delaying another week if the other   council members would like time to speak with the  applicant. With that, do you want to move? Yes.   Yes, mayor. I do. Um I move that we move this um  item to the December 9th regular meeting. Second   motion and a second. Any further discussion? I  see none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk, please  call the next item. PUD 2025-22 zone   change request in the city from single  family residential district and limited   commercial district to PUD 151 to create  the Trinity Park PUD generally located   on the northeast corner of South  Hoover Road and 47th Street South.   Scott, I'm gonna uh pause. Council member Glascock  would like to speak. Scott, I'm gonna save you   some time. Um I've spoken with the applicant and  then also some neighbors and we're still trying   to figure out maybe a compromised solution. And  so instead of going through the presentation,   I would like to delay this until I would make  a motion that we delay until December 16th. Second motion and a second. Any  further discussion? I see none.   Madame clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk, please call the  next item. CUP 2025-29 with zone 2025-41. create   the East Side Community Church, CUP 365, with  the zone change from single family residential   district to limited commercial district,  generally located on the northwest corner   of East 21st Street North and North 143rd Street  East, 14242 East 21st Street North. Quick question   before we begin. Council member Tuttle, um I asked  yesterday for DAB notes. Did anyone provide DAB   notes? I didn't see it. Can that be resended? I  emailed them to all of council members yesterday. Resended, please. Thank you, Scott. Sure. Um,  well, first off, my apologies that those weren't   included with the packet, so we we were following  up on that, so I apologize we didn't get those to   you. In terms of this case, uh the applicant is  requesting zone change from SF5 single family to   LC living in a commercial district. And as part  of that, they are also requesting to create or   required to create a community unit plan for the  property. So they would have the base zoning and   then the overlaying uh community unit plan. This  item is being heard today because protests have   been submitted within the notification area.  In terms of the request, the applicants have   indicated they intend to replplat the subject site  in the near future and they've mentioned uh at   least one development with a bank or a financial  institution on the site. In terms of the property,   subject site is located at the northwest corner  of the intersection of 143rd and 21st Street. The   subject site is a portion of a larger property  that has a church on it. The subject site is   approximately just over 10 acres in size, zoned  SF5 single family, and is currently undeveloped.   In terms of context, properties to the north  are zoned SF5 and developed with single family   dwellings. Properties to the east across 143rd  Street are zoned SF5 and LC. Those are all in   agricultural use. Properties to the south across  21st Street are zoned LC, part of a CUP. Some of   those properties are undeveloped and others are  developed with multif family residential units.   Properties to the west are zoned SF5 and developed  with a church and single family dwellings. So   here's a little bit back and forth with the zoning  map. So you can see in terms of the staff report,   the staff report provides information about land  use, landscaping, parking, screening, and signage.   In terms of review, on September 25th, this  application was scheduled to be considered by   the planning commission. The applicant requested a  deferral so that they could meet with neighborhood   stakeholders to discuss the proposed project  and the zoning application. On October 23rd,   the planning commission held the public hearing.  Prior to this meeting, the applicant amended their   application to address concerns expressed  by the neighbors. The planning commission   ultimately recommended approval. That vote was  12 to one and that was subject to modified CUP   text which is attached to the staff report and  also the conditions that are listed in the staff   report. The cup text modifications by the planning  commission were related to signage for parcel four   of the cup and also the permitted land uses for  parcel five of the cup. At that public hearing,   one person spoke in opposition to the application.  On November 10th, the district advisory board   heard the case and recommended approval. Their  vote was 9 to1 per the MAPC's recommendation.   One member of the public spoke in opposition to  the request citing concerns of increased traffic,   maintaining the established tree line tree line  along 143rd, a lack of maintenance on 143rd,   and establishing too many limited commercial  zoning districts in the near vicinity. Six   protests were received against the case. Zero of  those protests were within the calculation area.   Therefore, it did not exceed the 20% and this can  be approved with a simple majority vote or four   out of seven votes. In terms of recommendation,  it's recommended the city council adopt the   findings of the MAPC, approve the requested zone  change in the creation of the CUP, authorize the   necessary signatures, and instruct the city  clerk to publish the ordinance and resolution   after approval. Again, requires just four out of  seven votes. Alternatives include the following.   You can override the planning commission,  adopt alternative findings, and deny the   request. That would require five of seven  votes because it's an override. Or as always,   you can return it to the MAPC for further  consideration. That would require a simple   majority of four of seven votes. And again,  just a quick note about the process of the   public hearing takes place at the planning  commission meeting. So, with that, I'll take   you through some of the graphics and images.  So, here's the aerial showing the subject site.   Here's the zoning map again showing mostly LC  and SF5. Here's the map from the comprehensive   plan showing that a residential and employment  mix is recommended in this area. Here's the   uh protest map. Again, protests were received.  They were just out they were outside of the   protest area, but within the notification area.  Here's the graphic that was submitted as part of   the cup showing the different zoning parcels that  would be created. Here are photos from the site and the surroundings. Here's the church. I do want  to go back real quick and let you know that one of   the substantial changes that the applicant made  uh prior to the MAPC meeting was they removed a   parcel number six which was originally proposed  as part of this reszoning or cup. And the other   thing that they did is they limited the land  uses on parcel 5. And what they did is um they   limited heights also of any mult any duplex or  single family dwellings that would be developed   there. And I believe that that was because of  concerns that the neighbors to the north had about   uh commercial development being right adjacent  to the backs of their homes. In addition,   you can see on here that just above parcel  number five is a residential culde-sac and   that was something new that the developers  brought to the table after meetings with   uh nearby residents. So with that, I'll stand for  any questions. Thanks, Scott. Questions for staff.   I see none. This resides in Council Member  Tuttles's district. Thank you so much. Thank you,   Scott, for all of your time and thank you also  to legal. Um Scott kind of highlighted it,   but we spent lots of time on this case. Um it's  been delayed a couple times, so I'm excited to   see movement happen today. Um Scott and I spent  a beautiful afternoon in the culde-sac with the   neighbors. Um, I probably have received as much  communication regarding this case as almost any   that we've had other than maybe a car wash a  couple weeks ago. Um, but I want to disclose   that I have had exparte communication with the  applicant. I've had exparte communication with   the agent who is joining us today and I have  had exparte communication with the residents. I   I checked with legal and it's okay for me to make  this statement. I just want to thank the applicant   um not only for investing in our community  but for attending all of the meetings that   the the community members were at, the ones at the  church, you know, wherever. Um but also listening   to the residents and making the modifications  that were made. Um I served on this council,   it's been my honor for seven years. I served on  the district advisory board for 5 years prior and   in 12 years I've never seen such compromise  happen. So truly truly impressive and again   thank you to the applicant for uh listening to the  residents in the neighborhood. So with that I will   move that the city council adopt the findings of  the map and approve the requested zone change and   the creation of the east side community church  cdp 365. Authorize the necessary signatures and   instruct the city clerk to publish the ordinance  and the resolution after approval. Second motion   and a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk, please call the  next item. Sale of 29 public housing properties. Good afternoon, mayor and council members.  My name is Carmen Hoffine and I'm the real   property section manager for  the Department of Housing and   Community Services. I'm here to present  the sale of 29 public housing properties. For a little bit of background, in 2017, the  public housing authority, also known as PHA board,   approved the application to housing and  urban development, which also is HUD,   to reposition its entire public housing portfolio  under the rental assistance demonstration,   RAD program. The RAD program allows PHAS  to convert their public housing units to   a section 8 platform which enables housing  authorities to borrow private or public funds   needed to complete much needed rehabilitation to  the properties. The public housing portfolio was   divided into two projects, four multifamily  senior units and 352 single family homes.   RAD financing for the two multif family  senior units closed on October 29th of 2021   and construction began shortly thereafter. The  Witchaw Housing Authority was unable to secure   the remaining financing needed to continue the  RAD project for the 352 scattered site single   family homes. On June 20th, 2025, Witshaw  Housing Authority approved the submission   of the inventory removal application to HUD for  137 scattered site single family homes within   the 352 property portfolio, of which these  29 properties are included. In May of 2021,   HUD convened a focus group to assist Witchaw  Housing Authority in evaluating options for   repositioning the public housing portfolio  and engaged the community's group to provide   technical assistance. After further review, it was  determined that restricted rents allowed under the   RAD program could not support the level of debt  service needed to complete the required repairs.   In addition, the significant cost of managing and  maintaining 352 scattered site single family homes   made the project financially infeasible.  As a result, the most viable option was to   remove the 352 single family homes from the public  housing program and to use the proceeds to support   affordable housing through a different model.  A request for proposal, also known as an RFP,   number 2550272, the purchase of 29 Witchaw housing  properties located in the area of East 17th Street   North and Matthew Street, known as the Arnold  RFP, was published on September 4th of 2025   on the procurement portal. Property walkthroughs  were scheduled for September 9th through the 12th   from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Written requests were  due on September 19th at 5:00 pm and addendum was   posted to to the procurement portal on October  1st. Proposals were due on October 10th at 10   a.m. Presentations were made to the affordable  housing review board on October 27th at 3 p.m.   The selection and recommendation of proposals was  made by the affordable housing review board. Their   decision was based on several factors including  adequacy and completeness of proposal response,   credentials, qualifications and expertise of  development team, community impact of proposed   project, proposed compensation, alignment with  city affordable housing goals and project massing.   The Arnold RFP received five proposals, three of  which met minimum qualifications. After reviewing   and scoring those propo proposals, the affordable  housing review board voted to approve the sale   of 29 properties to Patterson Home Solutions  LLC received three properties to receive three   properties. Seek First Rentals LLC to receive  six properties. Large Enterprise to receive 20   properties. For financial considerations, there  is no impact to the general fund. In accordance   with HUD's approval of the disposition,  the net sales proceeds will fund section   8 rental projects and associated activities  in accordance with HUD notice PIH 2020-23. Legal considerations. The law department  has reviewed and approved the agreements   as to form. Recommendations and actions. It is  recommended that the Witchaw Housing Authority   Board approve a total of five real estate sale  contracts for 29 public housing properties, one   contract for Patterson Home Solutions for three  properties, one contract for Seek First Rentals   LLC for six properties, and three contracts  for ownership entities of large enterprise   for 20 properties and authorize the necessary  signatures. And I apologize for this last slide.   It should say the sale of 29 public housing  properties. And I stand for questions. Thank you,   Carmen. Questions for staff? I see none. This  gets public comment. Correct. Would anyone from   the public like to speak? No one from the  public would like to speak. We'll bring it   back to the bench. I will go ahead and move  since no one uh is on the board. I move that   the Witchaw Housing Authority Board approve a  total of five real estate sale contracts for   29 public housing properties. One contract for  Patterson Home Solutions for three properties,   one contract for Seek First Rentals LLC for six  properties and three contracts for ownership   entities of large enterprise for 20 properties and  authorized the necessary signatures. Second motion   and a second. Any further discussion? I see none.  Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes   70. Madame clerk, please call the next item.  Witchah Rad Senior LP Verizon cell tower easement. Good afternoon, mayor, members of council.  Sally Stang with the Housing and Community   Services Department. For the record, the item I  have for you today has to do with that similarly   the same RAD project that Carmen spoke about.  So again going back to October 29th, 2021,   the four public housing multifamily senior  properties including MLAN manor at 2627 West   9th Street conveyed to the Witchah RAD senior  LP under the low-income housing tax credit and   rental assistance demonstration programs. The  ownership entities of these tax credit projects   are are pretty complicated. So Rich Rad Senior LP,  that is the ownership entity. It is comprised of   AHP Housing Fund 249 LLC. That is the investor  partner. They're the ones who brought bought   the tax credits as well as Witchah Rad AMP1 LLC  which is the general partnership entity which   is comprised between the city of Witchah and  and Keith Bey enterprises who is our developer   partner. So the city still retains ownership of  those four properties but conveyed them to the   partnership for rehabilitation and operation  under a 99-year land lease. Rehabilitation of   all four properties is complete. Greenway Manor is  currently in lease up with to be uh it is expected   to be completely leased by the end of December.  And Mlan Manor, Rosa Greg and Bernice Harterson   have been fully leased for a couple of years.  The cell tower rooftop eastments and leases at   Mlan Manor with AT&T and Verizon both conveyed  with the property at the time of the closing.   That Verizon lease is set to expire at the end of  March 2030, so little over four years from now.   MD7 is the broker for Verizon, and they provided  the partnership an offer to adjust the terms of   the lease to a 40-year term for an upfront lump  sum payment of $550,000 plus 50% of the rent if   they were to bring any in any new tenant into the  easement. All other terms of the existing lease   remain in effect as far as notice requirements,  insurance requirements. Nothing else there has   changed. The part partnership's co-general partner  KBK Enterprises as well as the investor partner   AHP housing fund. They have approved the offer  with from Verizon. So, the partnership is seeking   approval from the Witchaw Housing Authority and  the city of Witchaw as both the lesser of the MLAN   Manor property under the 99-year lease and the  co-general partner of the partnership. The offer   provides us long-term benefit to the project  as it secures annual income of about 26719 for   the 40-year term which happens to coincide  with the term of the the mortgage with HUD.   It is based on some assumptions though that  550,000 being deposited in a to a trust account   in the name of the partnership and invested and  managed by the HUD home HUD loan lender which is   Lumen Capital. The funds are invested in at  least two long-term certificates of deposits   um of course that are FDIC insured and making sure  that they're responsible. um current CDs of this   nature have been um earning about 4% annually but  variances in CD rates will increase or decrease   the annual interest but the lump sum of 550  550,000 plus interest will bring in significantly   more than a little over 189,000 which is  the amount left in the existing lease term   with technology with the way it is um we can't  guarantee that the the use of towers the way they   are will be in existence for times beyond 2030. So  payments from the trust account can be made to the   uh to supplement project operations at the  site and are required to stay under the HUD   regulations. So any income earned by that property  has to stay with the property, but it will help   make sure that uh there's enough funding for  appropriate upgrades and operations going forward.   There is no impact to the general fund with this  activity. The law department has reviewed the   letter of intent from MD7 on behalf of Verizon and  approved the document as form and is recommended   that the H Witchah housing authority board approve  execution of the letter of intent on behalf of the   city of Witchah and the Witchaw Housing Authority.  And I'll stand for any questions. Thank you,   Sally. Questions for staff? I see none. We'll  open it up for public comment. I see none. I'll   bring it back to the bench. With that, I move that  the Witchaw Housing Authority Board authorize the   execution of the letter of interest on behalf of  the city of Witchaw and Witchaw Housing Authority.   Second. Motion and a second. Any further  discussion? I see none. Madame clerk, please   open the role. Motion passes 70. Madame clerk,  please call the next item. Public hearing and   request by Hangar Dynamics Jabara LLC for approval  of letter of intent to issue issue airport special   facility revenue bonds. Honorable mayor, members  of council, Troy Anderson, Assistant City Manager.   So, this is a request by Hangar Dynamics Jabar  LLC uh for approval of sales tax exemption only.   Uh you may recall you recently approved a land  lease with um a as the airport authority with   Hangar Dynamics Jabara uh for the construction of  an 18,000 foot hanger uh in order to expand their   uh footprint and their work product uh out at  the Jabara airport. Uh they're requesting the   issuance of approximately 24 million in revenue  bonds. Um again there's no property tax abatement   as the land is located on airport authority  ground which is exempt from property taxes.   So this is simply the request for the sales tax  exemption associated with the outfitting of the   uh for the construction project as well as all  the furniture fixture and equipment. Approximately   sales tax exemptions about $70,000 with the city  share being a total of about 5 $5,200. Again,   standard disclaimer, revenue bonds are a mechanism  for achieving a sales tax exemption and property   tax abatement and uh revenue bond transaction.  City's not lending any money. Bears no risk.   Owner developers required to obtain all of their  own financing. No taxpayer dollars are at risk.   Hangar Dynamics will has agreed to pay all the  costs associated with issuing the bonds uh as   well as the annual origination fees. The bonds  will then be purchased by Hangar Dynamics or a   related entity. Bond documents will be prepared  by outside council. Final form will be reviewed   and approved by the city's law department. It's  recommended city council close the public hearing,   adopt a resolution, and authorize the necessary  signatures. And I'll stand for questions. Thank   you, Troy. Questions for staff? I see none.  We'll open it up for public comment. I see   none. I'll bring it back to the bench. I move  that the city council close the public hearing,   adopt the resolution, and authorize the  necessary signatures. Second motion and   a second. Any further discussion? I see  none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes. 70. Madame clerk,   please call the next item. Council  member appointments and comments. Start with appointments. Are there any  appointments, council members? I see   none. I will now bring up a council member  agenda item. Um, I would like staff to craft   uh a resolution that will allow for any council  member that is retiring from their position   uh to receive a symbolic key to the city. This  president was created uh last year when council   member Fry, council member uh Blue and then  Mayor Whipple received the key to the city.   Um so I would like that to be crafted. Council  member Glasco. Thank you, Mayor. Um I will make   a motion here in a second to add um something  to a future agenda as well. per legal's advice,   common consumption Delano has been very successful  and um I confirmed with the chief of police last   week that there have been no incidences regarding  after speaking with businesses in Deleno   uh there were multiple businesses that expressed  interest in continuing the pilot uh every day of   the week from now until we had established the  pilot previously. And so I would move that staff   prepare an amendment to title 4.08 8 of the city  code which allows common consumption in the Delano   district that would allow common consumption  of Deleno every day and this item be prepared   for consideration by city council at a future  council meeting. Second to craft the amendment   motion and a second. Any further discussion?  I see none. Madam clerk, please open the role. All those in favor say I. I. I. All those  opposed, same sign. Motion passes. 70.   Council member Johns. Thanks, Mayor. I just  wanted to note in the public record that we   just approved the sale tower. And a few years  ago in the legislature, it was said by um one   or multiple lobbying teams and companies that  the city of Witchah denies cell towers all the   time. I just wanted that on the record that we did  not and we usually do not, we may ask questions,   but since it was said that Witchah does, just  wanted to point out we do not. Council member   Tuttle. Thank you. And I'm curious to learn more  about the resolution for the key to the city for   council members who are leaving because we have  a policy already. So I'm not sure how those are   going to work, but I did want to state for  the record that I've already submitted an   application for the Keith for the city for council  member Johnson. Um and it was approved by five   council members. So we have um council member  Johnson taken care of and it'll be an honor to   um recognize him here in about a month as he is  going on to bigger and better things. So thank   you. Any further comments? I see none. Madam,  um I will move to adjourn this meeting. Second.   Motion and a second. Any further discussion? I  see none. Madame clerk, please open the role. Motion passes. 61.