Public Works reports progress on substation, fiber, pool and staffing

Council member Julie delivered a detailed Public Works report covering several ongoing projects and operational matters.

Julie said the fiber company is completing mapping and testing for the new substation, crews are working on conduits and line runs from Sixth and Orange to the substation, and Midstates is finishing terminations inside the switchgear. At the Evergy solar site, crews are replacing inverters and a second disconnect was completed to allow installation of additional metering equipment. Julie said the power plant carried the town for seven hours while that work was done and that project work is complete.

Julie noted the department is looking for used generators that meet the city’s criteria and asked the council to preapprove purchases if suitable units become available; she said the units are rare and sell quickly when found. Staffing updates included hiring one full‑time employee (started April 27) and two part‑time employees to assist with mowing and downtown watering. The pool has been filled and shocked and staff are starting a new chlorine injection system. Julie also reported playground power washing, fountain and splash pad operation, six new water meters installed, and proceeds from a Purple Wave auction (including revenue for the street sweeper).

Julie said the department is monitoring generator availability and gathering cost information for future council action. The report closed with scheduling the next Public Works meeting for June 11 at 9 a.m. at the Public Works building.