The Wamego City Commission heard several annual reports. At Tuesday’s meeting, City Manager Merl Page introduced Recreation Commission Director Kristin Jones and Advisory Board Chair Joe Steele. Jones reported that 2014 was a good year, and went over the attendance numbers for the different programs. According to Jones, the programs offered by Wamego’s Recreation Department encompass all age groups, and were well attended.
Housing Authority Property Manager, Joni Chrest reported 100 percent occupancy, with 11 on the waiting list. Chrest said they have ongoing renovations, with 10 completed last fall and 8 scheduled for this year. She said renovations are dependent on capital reserves.
In other business, the Commission approved the Final Plat ordinance for Jim Ebert allowing the property bordering 4th street to accommodate duplex housing. The original request to rezone the property from R-1 to R-3 was turned down twice by the Planning Commission. Ebert came back with a rezoning request from R-1 to R-2 and after all the traffic concerns were addressed by the neighbors, the Final Plat was submitted and was approved.
City Manager Merl Page asked for approval to move forward on an Architectural Service Proposal from Architect Bruce McMillan for stone work on the Columbian Theatre. The proposed contract would include estimates for masonery restoration and design work for the project at a cost not to exceed $17,900. Approval was given by a vote of 4 to 0. Commissioner Bob Morse was absent.
In other business, the Commission approved the Tax Abatement Renewal for both Caterpillar Work Tools and Homestead Senior Housing. Page said the annual review is required to make sure the entities are still meeting the intended use of the facility, and both were in compliance. Approval was given by a vote of 4 to 0.
Also, the Commission approved support of the Pottawatomie County Recycling Program in the amount of $500, which they have done in the past. Commissioner Bill Ditto questioned the City’s support since there is a private company providing recycling services at a monthly cost. Page said the City continues to support the County program because non-profit agencies are involved, and the program has continued success.
Also at Tuesday’s meeting, Page went over the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and the Chamber of Commerce to provide half the funding for a Tourism Coordinator for the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). In December, the Chamber of Commerce proposed the City provide up to $22,500 per year for up to three years, with both the Chamber and CVB providing $11,250 each. The MOU was prepared and reviewed by City Attorney Jake Pugh and approved by a vote of 4 to 0.
In other business, the Commission approved an ordinance to amend the text to the City Code after review by the Planning Commission of the zoning text for public utility infrastructure set-back requirements. Page said the Planning Commission unanimously recommends the amendment, and it was approved by a vote of 4 to 0.
The Commission also approved a Color Run on June 6th as a fundraiser for the High School Band to help offset the Band’s trip expenses.
Page announced the February sales tax numbers for the City were up 4 point 7 percent, while the County-wide numbers up 5 point 8 percent.
In addition, the City will be auctioning off excess equipment on April 19th at 1 p.m.
