Revised water conservation plan adopted by city

A revised water conservation plan for the City, and a new rooftop HVAC unit for city hall were part of a special session of the city commission held on Monday evening, January 22.

The regularly scheduled meeting of the city commission on Wednesday, January 17, was rescheduled to the 22nd because there was no quorum.

By unanimous vote, commissioners voted to approve Ordinance #2024-3218 which adopts a Revised Water Conservation Plan. The new Plan replaces the current 1995 version and was revised by Doug Helmke from the Kansas Rural Water Association and approved by the Bureau of Water.

The City of Concordia is required to maintain a Conservation Plan on file with the Kansas Department of Health & Environment for water system inspections. Water conservation typically includes measures like fixing leaks, promoting water-efficient appliances, implementing landscaping practices that minimize water usage, enforcing regulations, and raising awareness to address water sustainability and promote responsible water use.

Commissioners also voted to purchase a new rooftop HVAC system from Hood Heating Air Plumbing & Electic in the amount of $13,700, to be paid from the Capital Improvement Plan.

The new rooftop unit replaces an old unit that serves the public lobby and restrooms at City Hall. The old unit was installed over 20 years ago and stopped working in December. The contract includes the removal and disposal of the old unit.

During the reports section of the meeting, City Manager Amy Lange informed commissioners that she had received 14 applications for the Public Works Director position. From that, three finalists were chosen and they will undergo a final evaluation on Friday afternoon.

Lange and all the commissioners commended the City's street crews and water department for their efforts during the latest storm and bout of frigid weather. Lange stated that the water department worked 32 hours straight in extremely difficult conditions to repair five main breaks.

Parks & Recreation Department director Chris Atkins reported on 2023 activities at City facilities. Atkins stated that there were approximately 1,100 participants in 27 programs, plus an additional 15 out-of-town teams in football and volleyball that competed at Concordia facilities.

The City's upgraded baseball facilities also hosted the Peewee League District and State championships; K-18 Regionals; and the Legion state championship.

Atkins also reported that approximately 11,000 people used the city pool, averaging 180 visitors a day.

Police Chief Brent Gering notified commissioners that the police department is now fully staffed with officers and dispatchers.

Commissioners then met in executive session with Lange and city attorney Justin Ferrell for 10 minutes. No action was taken.

The meeting adjourned at 6:07 p.m.