LYONS, Kan. — The Lyons City Council received an update during Monday’s meeting on the Wastewater Treatment Plant project. Thaniel Monaco from BG Consultants said they are encountering delays in the geotechnical report and transfer processes. He also reviewed two options for the wet well configuration, and outlined advantages and disadvantages of each.
Monaco also outlined the building design for the new treatment plant, including the need for a classified area for the grit system. He also indicated there is the potential for funding delays on the project timeline, and a need for flexibility in future decisions. As of now, final plans for the projects hold be read.
The Council tabled to their January 19th meeting the selection of a new software system for city accounting and business operations pending further negotiations and evaluation. Three proposals have been brought to the council, and Interim City Administrator Bailey Sayler reviewed final cost numbers and contract details from BS&A, Edmonds, and Casslle.
Saylor reviewed customer care and program implementation, with two of the companies offered. She noted the response is quick, some issues may be delayed due to ongoing development. In response to a question from Council member Cecil Burdett, regarding updates and impact on the program, Saylor said updates are real-time due to the web and cloud-based nature of the programs.
The Council approved transfer of just over $193,000 from the General Fund to the FEMA grant fund. This change will allow these funds to roll over into 2026 without negatively impacting the General Fund budget. Had those funds remained in the General Fund the city would not be able to spend them as they were not included in the approved budget. Grant funds as a rule are not part of the standard budgeting process.
The council approved a just under $10,000 purchase of a breaker unit for the city’s skid steer through Bobcat of Salina. This purchase is based on Soucewell contract pricing. It also authorized purchase of two used dump trucks for a combined price of just over $105,000. The two 2019 International Durastar 4300 trucks are being purchased through Reed CO LLC in Wamego.
The Council directed re-publication of resolutions setting show cause hearings for three dangerous and unsafe buildings. This involves 221 S. Purdy, 308 N. State and 330 E. 1st.
An ordinance was adopted that sets out pay ranges for various appointed officers of the city, including annual salaries for the City Administrator, Clerk, Chief of Police, Fire Chief and appointed positions ranging from crossing guards to the city counselor.
The Council approved an agreement with Sayler covering her duties as Interim City Administrator in addition to continuing to serve as City Clerk. While she is handling the dual role, Sayler will receive an additional compensation of $3,000 per month. She would resume her regular role as City Clerk when her interim administrator role concludes.
The Council approved revisions to attendance and leave policies. Part of this specifies of a paid holiday falls on a Friday or Saturday, the holiday would be observed Thursday, and if it falls on Sunday it would be observed Monday. It also makes revisions to vacation leave policies, changing it to a full month accrual basis starting in 2027. For 2026, employees will receive a bank of vacation days based on continuous years of service.
The Council approved contracts for the first three tenants in the new hangars at Lyons-Rice County Airport. A question was raised about airport security, which is the responsibility of the FBO manager.
A revised procurement policy for the city was approved. The revisions include changes to ensure no purchases outside normal city business use. The policy sets out spending limitations where Council approval would be required, and outlines the procurement process the city employs.
