Ulysses City Council met October 22, with a full agenda covering recreation funding, facility use, community initiatives, and local infrastructure updates.
Kristi Anderson of Grant County Recreation appeared before the Council to discuss a funding request previously made to the County Commissioners for an additional $134,000 mill levy. The Council requested more detailed information regarding how the Recreation Department budgets and allocates funds. The matter was tabled for further review at a later date.
Following discussion on financing options for a new sewer truck, the Council approved moving forward with Dream First Bank as the financial partner.
The Council revisited prior discussions regarding the Scout House and its future. Craig Hampton and Luke Grimes spoke about the need to decide between leasing or replacing the building before repairs or upgrades are made. Craig noted he did not want the Scouts to invest in improvements if they might lose the facility. The Kiwanis Club, currently experiencing growth, also expressed interest in using the building. Efforts will be made to secure a grant for window replacements, and the Council approved extending the Boy Scouts’ lease for three years.
Sabrina Gaddis presented on behalf of the Grant County Community Foundation, highlighting the ongoing impact of Grant County Gives. The Council approved a proclamation designating November 2–9 as Grant County Gives Week in Ulysses.
City Council President Election Nominations for City Council President were made for Ken Warner and Mark Diaz, with the Council selecting Ken Warner to fill the position.
A homeowner requested permission to remove a sidewalk at their own expense. The Council expressed the desire for the sidewalk to remain, which led to discussion regarding the condemnation process and who would bear the cost of replacement if required.
Discussion also took place regarding a Downtown Ulysses Collective focused on building maintenance. The proposal would involve a group canvassing the area from Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital to Joyce School to assess current conditions and potential improvements.
Luke Grimes addressed the possibility of reviewing the city charter to explore whether the mayor could be granted voting rights on certain matters. This topic will undergo further research before any changes are considered.
The Schlumberger Access Agreement was approved for renewal. Adjustments to bank signature cards at Grant County Bank and Johnson State Bank were also approved, including adding Sarah Brown to the signature sheets.
The Council also authorized Luke Grimes to move forward with paperwork related to a new national opioid settlement class action lawsuit. Funds received through this settlement would be designated for police narcotics training.
During staff comments, Sarah Brown was commended for her progress in her city role. Councilmember Caleb Woods mentioned a recent tour of local parks, a budget training session on long-term fiscal planning, and ongoing efforts to review sales and property tax strategies.
Council President Ken Warner discussed visits to vendors and provided updates on plans for a new park restroom facility. Councilmember Mark Diaz inquired about updates on stop sign and speed bump installations, as well as trailers parked on city streets. Grimes noted these issues had been delayed by other priorities but assured the Council they would be revisited. It was also reported that the Police Department has been taking action to tag and address improperly parked trailers.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
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