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Goodland commissioners table $30,000, 90-day federal funding engagement for larger EDA project
Summary
City staff presented a Merchant McIntyre proposal to pursue federal funding for a $6–7 million bakery and grain-mill electrical upgrade. Commissioners questioned cost and timing and voted to table a three-month, $30,000 retainer until the full commission can consider budget and details.
City Manager Kent presented a Merchant McIntyre proposal asking Goodland to contract the firm as an extension of city staff to pursue federal funding for large economic development projects, principally a proposed bakery and grain mill that would require $6–7 million in electrical infrastructure and a new substation. The firm's initial offering was a 90-day engagement billed at $10,000 per month ($30,000 total), with a suggested option to continue on a monthly retainer afterwards.
Why it matters: Staff said the city lacks internal capacity and that federal grant processes often require sustained, technical engagement with agency program officers. If Merchant McIntyre could secure competitive federal awards or meaningful pre-award guidance, the consultant work could reduce the amount the city would need to bond for the electrical upgrades.
Details of the proposal: Kent said the 90-day scope would include a resource inventory, a federal funding strategy, arranging substantive meetings with congressional and executive-branch program staff, and drafting initial application materials. The city would pay the retainer from electric-fund reserves; any capital construction would later be bonded and repaid by the electric fund, staff said.
Questions and concerns: Commissioners raised price and timing concerns, noting a $30,000 outlay for three months is significant for the city and that a year-long retainer would total roughly $120,000. Commissioners asked whether Merchant McIntyre has recent successes securing federal funds under the current administration; staff said the firm has past experience and can provide specifics at a future meeting.
Action taken: Commissioner Redland moved to table the proposal to allow all commissioners to be present for a full discussion; the motion was seconded and approved by roll call. Staff will bring further details and references back to the commission for a future meeting.
Next step: The commission tabled any engagement with Merchant McIntyre pending additional information and full-commission consideration.
