Ulysses City Council met February 25, with a concise agenda, but several matters of community interest addressed during the session.
Following the call to order, the Pledge of Allegiance, and an invocation led by Mark Diaz, the council unanimously approved the consent agenda. That included approval of the February 11 meeting minutes and accounts payable totaling $181,951.30.
Visitor Comments Highlight Growth and Safety Concerns
During visitor comments, Shannon Wilson approached the council to encourage efforts to attract a second grocery store to Ulysses. Wilson stated that since relocating to the community, he has come to appreciate its strengths and potential, but believes the city would benefit from expanding its tax base to better support its population size.
Keric Sullivan also addressed the council, expressing concern about the speed limit along U.S. Highway 160 from city limit to city limit. Sullivan stated that the current speed has contributed to what he described as avoidable accidents over the years.
Mayor Ken Warner acknowledged the concern and agreed that the issue has merit. However, he noted that previous attempts to secure changes through the State of Kansas have faced challenges.
Old Business: Miller & Main Lot Transfer
Under old business, the council addressed a technical correction involving the Miller & Main lot sale. The minutes required formal approval documenting the $5,000 sale and granting City Administrator Luke Grimes authority to sign transfer documents to Miller Skies LLC. The action was necessary to meet title company requirements and ensure proper legal form.
New Business: Equipment, Street Maintenance, and Insurance Rates
In new business, the council approved a $271,204 bid from Truck Center for the purchase of a new Western Star trash truck for the city fleet.
A bid from Crafco for crack sealing services was also approved, though the specific dollar amount was not announced during the meeting.
Discussion then turned to city employee health insurance. Blue Cross Blue Shield premiums have increased by 6.95 percent. The council discussed whether to remain in a grandfather clause that caps employee increases at 5 percent. Council member Caleb Woods expressed support for leaving the grandfather clause. A motion to stay with the grandfather clause was introduced, but it failed to receive a second. There was however a general consensus of the council to remain in the grandfather clause for another year and consult further with employees before making changes.
Highway Expansion and Local Projects
City Administrator Luke Grimes reported ongoing coordination issues with the Kansas Department of Transportation regarding the Highway 160 expansion project. Grimes indicated the city would proceed with required public notices.
Mayor Warner added that delays have also occurred with the Kepley crosswalk project, noting that each modification to the original design could contribute to timeline setbacks.
Grimes also stated his intent to begin discussions early with the railroad to ensure mowing along the rail corridor is addressed this year. Additionally, he reported progress toward establishing a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) in connection with the Miller Skies development project.
Council member Mark Diaz commented positively on recent cleanup efforts at the city golf course. Woods briefly inquired about the anticipated arrival of new playground equipment.
Before adjournment, the council extended condolences to The Ulysses News following the passing of Amanda Wallace-Murphy.
With no further business, the council voted to adjourn.
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