Augusta City Council raises downtown waste fines, approves public works CMAR and a Wichita State housing plan

Augusta's City Council on May 18 approved a package of routine and policy items, most notably rewriting the municipal waste ordinance to raise penalties for downtown littering and authorizing a construction‑manager‑at‑risk (CMAR) contract for the new Public Works campus.

The council unanimously passed an ordinance to repeal and replace the municipal code chapter on waste and set a fine range of $100 to $500, to be applied at the judge's discretion. During discussion staff noted neighboring communities' approaches and court costs; as staff observed, "Augusta was lowest at $10," framing the need for a higher deterrent. Council member (S2) moved to set the fine at "$100 to $500," and the motion carried on a roll call vote with all members voting yes.

The meeting also authorized a CMAR agreement for the Public Works campus after a presentation by Tim John, Public Utilities Director. John told the council: "This recommendation includes pre construction services, $13,448, a ... fee of 3.95% of the cost of the work." The council moved to approve the agreement; the motion carried by voice vote. The staff presentation listed preconstruction services at $13,448 and a CMAR fee of 3.95% of project costs. The motion recorded a cap for general construction work (motion language stated an amount not to exceed $443,212); staff remarks earlier referenced $43,212 for general conditions. The record does not reconcile those two figures; the council approved the agreement as presented and staff will carry forward finalized contract numbers.

Councilors also approved a professional services agreement with Wichita State University's Public Policy and Management Center to develop a three‑year housing action plan. Staff described a facilitated process of workshops with city leaders, advisory boards, community stakeholders and the school district; the total cost is $7,989 to be paid from the development budget or general fund. A staff member summarized the scope: the project will produce an implementation plan identifying actions, responsible parties and timelines.

On routine items the council approved the minutes of prior meetings, passed Appropriation Ordinance No. 5 (dated 05/06/2026), and authorized a $600 allocation to the Adopt‑a‑Pump program to pay prizes for three participants. The council also scheduled a work session for Monday, June 8, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.

In other matters, members discussed safety at Castle Park — urging caution about bicycles and electric scooters near children — and staff said signage has been ordered. Councilors briefly reviewed timing for the splash pad opening and progress on recently awarded wayfinding‑sign grants. The meeting adjourned after the business of the evening was completed.

The ordinance changing the municipal waste fines passed by roll call. The CMAR and professional services contracts were approved by voice vote; staff will finalize contract documents and return with any required guarantees and final pricing.