The Superior Express -

The regular meeting of the Mankato City Council was called to order by Sam Becker, council president, on Dec. 6. Councilmen present were: Sam Becker, Kevin Ost, Rodney Payne; George Hennion and Lyle Dauner. Mayor, Justin Schoonover was absent. Also present was Darrell Miller, city attorney, and Sharon McCormick, interim city clerk.

Visitors present were: Don Koester; Sheriff Don Jacobs; Jim Zadina; Kyra Lampe; Jason Ortman; Darren Prince, KMEA; Jason Schultz, KRWA; Larry Steele, Miller & Associates.

Kyra Lampe and Jason Ortman presented information regarding the Kansas Road Trip and requested the city consider making a contribution to meet the expected budget and cost.

Darren Prince gave a presentation on the current electric rates of the City of Mankato and the financial status of the electrical department. The council requested he consult with the employees of the electrical department concerning possible future expenses for improvements and prepare an additional report including any proposed rate increases.

Jason Schultz, KRWA, made a presentation concerning the city’s source water protection plan. Schultz agreed to provide the city with a digital copy of the research concerning the protection plan and also a complete copy of the hard file.

Larry Steele, Mill and Associates, requested the council approve the proposed request for bids for the swimming pool painting. The council approved the request.

Don Koester updated the council on the plans for installation of a sound system and TV screen in the Community Center.

Jim Zadina reported on the progress of the sewer project and the council discussed with Jim, the need for plans for street maintenance in the coming year. Jim agreed to provide the council with a proposal for street repairs.

The scheduled payment to APAC on the city waterline project was approved.

The requested payment to members of the volunteer fire department was approved.

A contribution of $2,000 to the Kansas Road Trip Committee was approved.

The council discussed needed water meter replacement and requested that the clerk ask Matt Badger, head of the water department to replace the defective meters within 60 days. The council requested that Matt appear at the February council meeting to report on the progress.

The council discussed the need for cement for railing at the Community Center.

The council discussed the status of the contract extended to Brogan Jones. No action was taken.