Council approves Bomb Park renovation bid, utility tractor purchase and several first-reading ordinances

Manchester's council on its regular meeting voted on several routine but tangible items: awarding the Bomb Park shelter and restroom renovation to Lucky Building Services, authorizing the purchase of a budgeted John Deere subcompact utility tractor, approving a subdivison adjustment at Schaver's Highway 20, and advancing two ordinances on animal protection and parking violations to second readings.

On Bomb Park, staff said Lucky Building Services submitted the low bid — about $169,850 including a 10% contingency and architect fees — and that the project cost would be covered by a combination of insurance proceeds, $100,000 from the park improvement fund (hotel-motel tax) and franchise-fee revenue. Council members discussed restroom accessibility, vandalism concerns and how the project coordinates with the street project this summer; the motion to award the contract passed on a recorded vote.

The council also approved a budgeted purchase of a John Deere subcompact utility tractor, to be used for snow removal and mowing; the existing unit will be offered for sealed bid once the new machine arrives. Council approved a revised lot configuration for the previously approved Schaver's subdivision after the applicant explained a needed separation of house/shop from grazing lands.

Council members conducted first readings of two ordinances: Ordinance 002 would add a specific code section addressing pet waste, kennels and animal pens; Ordinance 003 would update parking violation fees for the first time since 2009 to improve enforcement support. Both ordinances passed first reading and are expected back for a second reading at the next meeting.

Votes on these items were recorded by roll call during the meeting; details and official contract documents will be available in the city packet.