LYONS, Kan. — Improvements to the Wastewater Treatment Plant are moving forward following several actions by the Lyons City Council Monday night including acceptance of a bid and authorizing submission of a Community Development Block Grant Application
A $650,000 CDBG grant is being sought to go with $5.585,000 in funding from the State of Kansas’ Revolving Loan Fund and city funds for the project. The resolutions adopted cover authorization to apply for the grant, assurances connected to the grant, and the project budget.
The council accepted a bid from UES for construction of the WWTP project. Thaniel Monaco from BG Consultants said three bids for the project were received, all of which were from highly qualified contractors and were very close.
The Council set December 15th show cause hearings that begin the process that could ultimately lead to demolition of structures on three properties, at 221 S. Purdy, 308 N. State and 330 E. 1st. City Inspector Stephen Thomas said the three properties are not structurally sound and have open spaces attractive to transients. The December date is the earliest meeting a hearing can be held due to requirements related to publication. The hearing can be held no sooner than 30 days following the final publication of the hearing notice.
A resolution was also adopted authorizing staff to proceed with abating nuisances involving a property at 529 South Workman, which the owner had received notice of in April. Work can begin 20 days following the resolution’s passage, and if the costs are not paid by the owner they will be charged against the property as a special tax assessment.
An amendment to personnel policies and guidelines as it relates to overtime for Police Department employees was approved. The change requires officers to work 84 hours within a 14-day work period rather than 86 before being eligible for overtime.
Unlike other city employees, police officers work 12 hour shifts, and have seven shifts per pay period. Most other employees of the city get overtime after four hours in a seven-day period. Those employees in administrative, executive or professional positions defined under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act are not eligible for overtime.
The Council discussed a concern that was brought up at the last meeting regarding street maintenance. Public Works Director Jared Jones and Assistant City Administrator Elizabeth Ramsey are developing a maintenance and replacement plan. It also discussed the possibility at some point to construct a new building for the Park Department
The Council also approved the 2026 renewal of a cereal malt beverage license for White’s Foodliner.
Monday’s meeting was the final meeting for Council member John Mehl, who is resigning effective October 31st as he has purchased a home outside the city limits. Mehl thanked everyone for the opportunity to hold this position, adding it has been great and fulfilling.
Mayor Alicia Hommon told Mehl it has been an absolute pleasure to have worked with him, and even though they have disagreed at times he was a phenomenal Council member. Hommon also noted he also did a lot of research and always had a firm opinion that is in favor of our community first.
