On Tuesday, September 26th, the Liberal City Commission addressed the following items during their regularly scheduled meeting:
Pictured Above: LFD Firefighter Joseph Navarro, LFD Chief Kelly Kirk, SCFD Captain Braden Steckel, and SCFD Chief Andrew Barkley
The meeting began with fire department commendations issued by Liberal Fire Chief Kelly Kirk and Seward County Fire Chief Andrew Barkley. SCFD Captain Braden Steckel and LDF Firefighter Joseph Navarro were recognized for their heroic actions responding to an emergency incident at the Red Barn Truck Wash on Sept. 1. These men, along with several local first responders who worked together at the scene, were recognized by the commission for their bravery.
Mayor Lara read a proclamation in observance of Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 8-14).
Consent Agenda items (Airport Leases), were approved by the Commission.
The Commission opened a public hearing for the 2024 city budget. Following the public hearing, commissioners adopted Resolution No. 2405 to approve the 2024 budget as presented. The City of Liberal budget will not exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate in 2024. The total final mill calculation for the budget will be released after final assessed valuations are calculated in November.
Commissioners moved to approve funding for the increased purchase cost of a cutaway bus replacement which has been on order since 2021.
The following new purchases were presented to the commission and approved:
- A bulk order of cases of trash bags
- Road repairs for sections of General Welch Boulevard (costs reimbursed through the airport’s ARPA grant funds)
- Two generators for the city’s water department building
- Door access controls and/or security recording services for City Hall, Willow Tree Golf Course, and National Beef Sports Complex locations
The meeting concluded with an update and discussion about the operating status of Stepping Stone Shelter. Multiple city departments are providing ongoing technical assistance with operational improvements at the shelter. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve up to $50,000 in operating fund support through the end of 2023 to continue shelter services while new funding resources are secured. The City of Liberal will hold direct oversight over all funds expensed to assist with operating costs.
The next regularly scheduled Liberal City Commission meeting will take place October 10th at 5:30 p.m.