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Council hears operational updates on engines, technology and personnel; accepts operator resignation
Summary
City Administrator reported KDHE-required emissions testing issues that sidelined engine 9 until black-smoke causes are fixed, recommended purchasing two catalysts, briefed the council on aging computers and phone system needs, and the council accepted the resignation of a public-works operator.
City Administrator Carl Chalfant provided multiple operational updates to the City Council on Sept. 3, including compliance action by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and several equipment and personnel items.
Chalfant told the council that KDHE required a catalyst test under RICE-NESHAP regulations after an opacity test on engine 9 was unacceptable. "KDHE will not allow the city will run engine 9 until the black smoke is addressed," the minutes record. Chalfant said emissions testing was otherwise completed and passed; he recommended ordering two replacement catalysts now at an estimated cost of $3,500 each before supplier prices increase to about $6,000 in January because of a company sale. The council consented to the purchase.
On technology, staff reported that four City Hall workstation computers are nearing end of life and the council agreed to rotate replacements to spread costs; the council also instructed staff to seek bids to replace a telephone system that has been in place for more than 25 years.
Personnel and equipment items included the council’s acceptance of the resignation of Lawrence Winkler, street/water/wastewater operator, effective Aug. 14, 2024. Chalfant also reported approval to replace the transmission on a 2003 Chevy truck at a quoted cost of $1,277.04 and to replace the motor on a 2021 Grasshopper mower at an estimated $2,949.
Separately, the council approved a street-use permit for a Sept. 21 event contingent on proof of liability insurance, discussed a request from Ethan Schuette to fire a touchdown cannon during the Homecoming Parade and authorized the mayor to sign a tower lease with The Towers, LLC. The council approved Power Plant Operator David L’Ecuyer’s attendance at the KMEA/KMGA conference Oct. 23–24 in Wichita, with one council member voting nay.
