Wymore weighs Thomas Foundation grant for demolition or renovations; approves cemetery grant application and a wedding alcohol permit

City Attorney Andy Carothers told the Wymore City Council on May 6 that he is preparing a Thomas Foundation grant application the council can consider at its next meeting, and that the application must specify whether funds would pay for demolition of dilapidated buildings or renovate the Community Center.

Council members raised a specific property of concern at 217 S. 7th St., noting exterior disrepair and barricades; Andy Carothers said a GIS search lists the current owner as Christy William of Omaha. The attorney said he is coordinating with Utility Superintendent Tim Sedlacek on whether the Thomas Foundation application should fund demolition or Community Center work.

Separately, the council approved a Cemetery Board application for a Morris Foundation grant after Pam Gerdes asked for permission to apply; Andy Carothers said he had reviewed the application and suggested no changes.

The council also voted 4-0 to allow Holly Creek and Bryce Kruse to serve alcohol, including a beer garden, at the Community Center for their June 20, 2026 wedding.

During public comment, residents raised related concerns: Ted Huls asked when the Thomas Foundation decision would be made (Andy said the application must designate the intended use and the council will decide at the next meeting), and Jeff Spier asked about sidewalks along Highway 77 to Dollar General — Mayor Collin Meints said a possible new state program will be explored at a future meeting.

The attorney said he will bring a completed grant application and more precise recommendations to the next council meeting for a formal decision.