LYONS, Kan. — Animal Shelter issues were a major topic for the Lyons City Council at their meeting on Jan. 20. An earlier plan to place a shelter at the Wastewater Treatment Plant site south of Lyons was abandoned, and the Council discussed a number of options for a shelter location.
A primary option being explored is to locate it adjacent to the Lyons Police Department, with three for it presented, of which two would involve use of shipping containers as was the original plan. The third option presented involves construction of a metal building, which also would have the potential for police to be able to use it for storage.
Funding for this was also discussed at length. The City of Sterling earlier committed $12,000 towards this project, and Rice County has indicated they would provide a like amount. While a shipping container was already purchased for the original site, the Public Works Department has expressed interest in acquiring it, which could also be usable by contractor on the upcoming project at the Wastewater Treatment Plan.
While funding is still being explored for what right now is about a $70,000 project, another potential site option was discussed, involving a piece of ground near Central Prairie Co-op. There have been some discussions with them, and those are ongoing.
Chris Detmer was recognized by the council for his actions June 1, 2025 when he entered a burning home to save the life of an occupant. A proclamation said Detmer demonstrated extraordinary bravery, risking personal safety in the face of life threatening danger, and said his actions reflected uncommon valor, deep compassion, and a profound commitment to the well being of others.
A letter of commendation was also read honoring Lyons Police Officer Casey Schrock for outstanding performance and professionalism during a burglary investigation that culminated earlier this month and led to arrests including one of a person who had been evading law enforcement for nearly 10 years. The commendation stated Schrock’s observations, coordination, and decisive actions along with a willingness to assist across agency lines directly contributed to bringing the incident to a successful conclusion.
The council also recognized Matt Detmer for his 20 years of service to the city across several departments, currently serving as park superintendent.
An initial Community Development Block Grant agreement was signed connected with the Wastewater Treatment Plant project. Related to this, the Council held a special meeting on Jan. 27 during which final plans for the project were presented.
The council approved a resolution declaring an immediate hazard and authorizing demolition of a fire damaged house at 118 East Lyon. The City is currently holding some insurance proceeds on the house, which will be used to pay for the demolition. It was indicated there are also delinquent taxes on this property.
The council approved a staff recommendation to change how water usage is stated on city utility bills. The change involves going from listing consumption based on units of 100 gallons to one based on actual gallons used. Reports submitted to the state require actual gallons be stated, and this will result in a savings on staff time.
A nearly $60,000 purchase of a Power Trac Slope Mower was approved. This mower, which has up to a 45-degree slope capability, is utilized by the city to maintain drainage channels in the city and allows a reduction of time crews would otherwise have to spend weed eating.
An audit contract with Jared, Gilmore and Phillips was approved. The contract with the Chanute based firm has a not to exceed price of $12,650.
The Council appointed Irlick Moreno and Carter Schrag as new members of the Lyons Volunteer Fire Department. It also approved creation of a grants/donation fund for the Fire Department, which will allow it to keep their budget accurate while tracking grant funds.
An interim contract was signed with Patrick Hoffman for him to continue serving as City Attorney while a replacement is being sought. Hoffman was recently named City Attorney for Salina, which with his hiring becomes a full-time city employee rather than a contracted position.
