On the agenda: Larned meeting — license plate reader (May 4)

City Council Meeting
City of Larned
May 4, 2026
6:30 PM
1. Call to Order
a. Roll Call
b. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Approval of the Agenda
3. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes of City Council Meeting – April 6, 2026
b. Tourism Committee Appointment
c. Application to Sell Cereal Malt Beverages
4. Appropriations Ordinance #4 for $1,062,328.13
5. Public Comments
6. Presentations
a. 2025 Municipal Audit
b. Larned Swimming Pool
c. Pawnee County Economic Development Commission
d. Core Communities
7. Old Business
8. New Business
a. Replacement of Fountain Rings
b. Adoption of Building Code Ordinances
c. Street-Sealing Discussion
d. Set June Golf Course Work Session
9. Staff Presentation – Dale Vanderhoof, Wastewater Utility
10.
Adjournment

City Council Meeting Minutes
City of Larned
April 6, 2026
6:30 PM
Mayor William Nusser called the regular session to order with the following
Councilmembers present: Councilmember Kim Barnes, Councilmember Terry Clark,
Councilmember Gary Rainbolt, Councilmember Brian Carlton, Councilmember Jacques
Molleker, Councilmember Rusty McClendon and Councilmember Sharon McGinness.
Councilmember Jason Murry was absent.
City Manager Bradley Eilts, Finance Director Monica Steiner and City Clerk Kara Rath were
also present.
Approval of the Agenda
Councilmember Carlton motioned to approve the Agenda as presented. Councilmember
Clark seconded the motion.
Motion passed.
Consent Agenda
Councilmember McGinness motioned to approve the consent agenda as presented,
Councilmember Clark seconded.
Motion passed.
Appropriation Ordinance #3
Finance Director Monica Steiner reported on the expenses listed on the financial report. On
a motion by Councilmember Rainbolt and seconded by Councilmember Clark and carried
for Appropriation Ordinance #3 in the amount of $927,524.63 and transfers more or less
were approved for payment.
Finance Director Monica Steiner reported that after discussions with the auditors of Adams
Brown, the Land Bank will need its own fund and will need a separate bank account. Adams
Brown conducted the City Audit the previous week.
Councilmember Barnes noted that he spoke with Finance Director Monica Steiner
regarding the Elan Financial charges. She explained that these were credit card charges
from the Fire Department and Police Department, from now on they will pay these through
a vendor system with invoices. No further discussion was held regarding appropriations.
Motion passed.

Public Comments
Harleigh Erlich gave an update on the Scout House renovations.
Presentation-EMC Dividend Check
Cassidy Smith with World Insurance/Alliance Insurance presented the City with a dividend
check for $21,308.69.
Old Business
Library Board Composition Change
Recently, the Library Board Trustees reached out to City Manager Eilts regarding the
Charter Ordinance that requires the Library Board of Trustees to reside inside the City
limits. The board requested that the Charter Ordinance be modified to allow the Mayor to
appoint two of the Trustees who are residents of Pawnee County but do not reside within
the City Limits of Larned.
If approved the Charter Ordinance would have to be published in the newspaper for two
consecutive weeks, if there is no protest it would become effective in 61 days after the final
publication.
Councilmember Molleker motioned to approve the Charter Ordinance as presented.
Councilmember Rainbolt seconded.
On a roll call vote 7 aye, 0 nay.
Motion passed.
Welcome Inn Update
In August 2025 the Council approved to waive the Cost of City utilities for the Welcome Inn
along with allocating $20,000 for use at its discretion. Representatives from the Welcome
Inn were present and indicated that the funds that were allocated have been used for
exterior renovations and new tires for their delivery van.
They requested that Council approve to continue to write-off the utility bill for a year.
Councilmember McGinness motioned to approve the utility write-off for one year.
Councilmember Molleker seconded.
Motion passed.
LPD Purchase-Motorola Body and In-Car Camera System
At the March Council meeting, the Council tabled approval of nine body cameras and six incar camera systems due to a number of questions requiring more information.
A representative from Motorola addressed the Council regarding the cost for the system.
From the previous quote, they have removed the cost for the in-car router system and the
cost for the license plate reader, this would be free for the first three years. A value of $580

per vehicle per year. The cost for the first year for the nine body cams and 6 in-car cams
would be $48,258.35, this includes cloud storage and equipment. The cost for year two and
beyond would be $11,454.20 per year, this would cover the cloud storage, warranty and
software.
The Motorola representative indicated that the warranty ends after five years, but it can be
extended. He also noted that in year three Motorola would be contacting the PD to put a
plan in place for extending the warranty and or replacing equipment.
The representative also stated that he can quote the system for ten years. Councilmember
Molleker requested that he do that and return with the information.
Mayor Nusser asked Interim Chief Hearn to compare the fleets vehicle replacement with
the cost of the cameras and return with this when the quote is ready.
Street Department purchase-Snow Blade
At the March Council Meeting, the Council voted to table the decision on the purchase of the
snow blade until the alley reconstruction was completed and no costly surprise repairs
were found. The project is winding down with no substantial issues.
Adam Perez, Street Superintendent gave an update on the last few street projects they have
been working on. He indicated that the street sealing that was completed last year may
need repairs and that he needs to research an alternative for the project that was budgeted
for this year.
Discussion took place and the snow blade was unanimously tabled until the end of the year.
New Business
Request by Housing Opportunities Inc.
Callie Miller, Executive Director, HOI, requested that the Council access the Operating
Reserve Funds for the Dream Homes. The Larned Dream Homes property currently has an
outstanding balance of $7,430.25 owed to HOI, representing January and February
management fees. These costs are elevated due to recent work completed on a vacant unit
and the temporary loss of rental income. At present, the property’s operating account has a
balance of $662.20, which is not sufficient to cover the outstanding obligations. In addition,
in May, the property taxes amount to $545.06 will also need to be paid. The Operating
Reserve Account’s current balance is $149,800.63
After discussion Councilmember McGinness motioned to approve $15,000 from the
Operating Reserve Account and that Callie requests any funds under $5,000 through City
Manager Eilts. It was approved in previous discussion that he could approve any transfers
under $5,000. Councilmember Clark seconded.
Motion passed.

Community Center Gym HVAC
The HVAC system at the Community Center gym is down. Glassman Corporation
determined that the compressor unit needs replaced. Glassman offered two options: one, to
repair, which replaces the compressor, the filter core, and the contactor on the existing unit,
and charges the unit. The total for repair, including all labor, parts, equipment, travel, and
shipping is $29,100. Once ordered, the compressor will be delivered in 3-5 days.
The second option entails removing the existing outdoor unit and installing a new Carrier
20-ton 2-stage condensing unit pair with a new indoor DX coil in the existing air handler,
along with new meter devises. The total, including all labor, parts, equipment, travel, and
shipping, is $41,700. The timeframe is estimated at eight weeks for shipping and
installation.
Derrick with Glassman was on the phone and indicated that if the Council votes to repair
the warranty for the compressor is one year as well as the labor. If the Council votes to
replace there is a one-year warranty on all parts, four-year warranty on the compressor
and the labor. There is also the option to buy the extended warranty from the manufacturer.
Councilmember Carlton motioned to replace the unit. Councilmember Rainbolt seconded
the motion.
Motion passed.
Community Center Painting
During the tour of the Larned Community Center last year, Council President Barnes
observed that the wall in the gym was distressed and in need of cleaning and painting. The
gym was last painted in 2018. It was requested at that time that it be repainted using
volunteer labor or Red Caps. Unfortunately, the Red Caps were unavailable to do the work;
and attempts to find volunteer labor were unsuccessful. The was due to the height of the
work, preparing and painting the upper section of the gym walls.
Bids to do the work were solicited and three bids were submitted, two were from H&H
Roofing, LLC. One included prep and paint for $22,250 and the other was to replace wood
sections and paint for $34,122.75
The third bid was from Fresh Coat Painting LLC. Their bid including two components:
painting all wood surfaces from the floor to 17 feet for $9,512, and painting sheetrock
surfaces from 17 feet to the ceiling for $9,325, for a combined total of $18,837.
Both companies were present at the meeting to answer any questions.
Councilmember Carlton motioned to award the bid to Fresh Coat Painting, LLC.
Councilmember Molleker seconded.
Motion passed.

Second Street Improvement Project
The Pawnee River Bridge replacement project is slated to begin construction between June
and August of this year, and expected to take 90-120 days. This will reroute traffic during
construction onto and through roadways that were not originally designed for heavier
truck traffic. To address the wear caused by detours, KDOT has provided the City with
$65,000 to offset wear-and-tear issues on 2nd Street. The funding assistance will be used on
2nd Street between Carroll and Morris.
Adam Perez, Street Superintendent, requested that Council approve moving forward with
the project, contracting with Eakin Enterprises for the excavation, and the completion of as
much of 2nd Street as the funding will allow.
Councilmember Carlton motioned to approve the request. Councilmember Rainbolt
seconded.
Motion passed.
KDOT CCLIP Application
The applications are now open for the FY 2028. This would be for a surface preservation 2”
mill and overlay project on US-156 from Broadway Street east to the east City Limits. This
involves milling the road and overlaying or patching it. KDOT will pay 95% of the
construction and construction engineering costs, while preliminary engineering costs are
not included in the match. These projects have a maximum KDOT match of $400,000.
The estimated cost for this project is $623,540.21 and the City’s share would be
$223,540.21 ($166,114.88-participating costs and $36,372.70-non-participating costs).
Funding for the City’s matching funds will come from the Special Highways Fund.
Councilmember Rainbolt motioned to approve submission of the application.
Councilmember McGinness seconded.
Motion passed.
Fire Hydrant Concerns
Council President Barnes lead a discussion regarding black (nonfunctioning) topped fire
hydrants, specifically the hydrant at 8th and Toles, where the house fire occurred in recent
weeks.
Councilmember Barnes requested that staff report on how many are not functioning. Fire
Chief Hearn pulled up his interactive map and noted that it shows four. City Manager Eilts
will check with Water Superintendent, Josh Taylor and report back.
Meeting adjourned.
_____________________________________
City Clerk, Kara Rath

______________________________________
Mayor, William Nusser

AGENDA ITEM
Consent Agenda
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:

Tourism Committee Appointment

Background and Analysis: The Mayor’s appointment of Donna Stejskal to
the Tourism Board requires the consent of the City Council. Other
members of the Tourism Committee include Vicki Gillett, Dawn Skelton,
Beverly Howell, Dody Burkey, Gary Clark, George Elmore, Richard Lartz,
Mike Gilmore, and Becky Martin.
Financial Considerations: None.
Action Recommended: Approve the appointment of Donna Stejskal to the
Tourism Board.

AGENDA ITEM
Consent Agenda
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:

Application to Sell Cereal Malt Beverages

Background and Analysis: Santa Fe Trail Days will be held over Memorial
Day weekend again this year. Most activities will be in Jordaan Park and
the County Fair Grounds.
The Chamber of Commerce is requesting approval of a Special Event Cereal
Malt Beverage license for a beer garden during this event, which will take
place May 22ND through 24th from 6:00 pm to 11:59 pm. The Pawnee
County Fair Board provides insurance that covers this event.
The Kansas Department of Revenue has changed the licensing for CMB
holders. It is now required that licensees’ submit paperwork to the state
for approval, once approved the state then sends the application and CMB
stamps to the City and the City then has the option to approve the
application if it meets the requirements. At the time of the agenda write-up
staff has not received the stamps or application.
Financial Considerations: None.
Action Required: Approve the application by the Chamber of Commerce
to sell Cereal Malt Beverages during the 2026 Santa Fe Trail Days
Celebration on the dates and times referenced above pending the
application and stamps are received from the Kansas Department of
Revenue.

AGENDA ITEM
Presentations
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:

2025 Audit Report

Background and Analysis: Adams Brown conducted the City’s annual
financial audit earlier this year. This audit required a single audit related
to the level of Federal Assistance received by the City. They will review the
2025 Audit Report with the Council at this meeting.
Financial Considerations: None for this action.
Action Required: Receive the 2025 Audit Report from Adams Brown.

AGENDA ITEM
Presentations
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:
Larned Swimming Pool
Background and Analysis: With a goal of renewing the summer
swimming pool culture, the City Manager began working with a small
group of community stakeholders who have a strong connection to
Larned’s municipal pool and its long-standing role in the community. This
group—Adam Hewson, Bethany Steinlage, Amy Nelson, and Danielle
Fleske—has provided valuable input on revitalizing the pool as a key
summer amenity. Their ideas focus on expanding programming and
increasing engagement for both youth and families, with an emphasis on
making the pool a more active and welcoming destination for all ages.
We recently completed recruitment efforts for the pool management role.
While the applicant pool was limited, I am pleased to report that Reed
McNett has been selected as Pool Manager. Reed is a senior at Fort Hays
State University and brings firsthand familiarity with the facility, along
with strong enthusiasm, leadership ability, and a clear vision for
operations. He is expected to be joined by Abigail Holt as Assistant
Manager. With support from the stakeholder group, especially Adam
Hewson, staff and management are implementing a more structured,
intentional approach to pool operations this season.
Recruitment and retention of sufficient staff remain a challenge. However,
staff are optimistic that improved leadership, clearer expectations, and a
positive start to the season will significantly enhance recruitment and
overall operations. Mr. McNett and the Pool group will attend the City
Council meeting to present several planned improvements and
programming ideas for the 2026 pool season.
Financial considerations: Under the General Fund, the Pool budget is
$140,000 annually.
Action Recommended: Receive the presentation from Reed McNett and
the group helping with its transformation.

AGENDA ITEM
Presentations
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:

Pawnee County Economic Development Commission

Background and Analysis: As part of the Municipal Budgeting process,
this and upcoming Council Meetings will include visits from outside taxsupported entities to discuss recent and current activities, focuses, and
plans for the upcoming year.
The staffing transition within the Chamber of Commerce and the Pawnee
County Economic Development Commission provided an opportunity to
reevaluate priorities and make adjustments as needed. Earlier this year,
the Mayor, Council President Barnes, and the City Manager met with the
new Chamber Director, Casey Smith, and Cindy Wallace. The purpose of
the meeting was to discuss some of the changes we felt were important to
see, particularly in relation to economic development. The City’s taxpayersupported funds are for economic development.
The Chamber/PCEDC Board worked with Sara Bloom of the KS Dept. of
Commerce on a strategy-planning process. Representatives of the Board
will present the outcome plan and budget going forward. The City
Manager asked that the presentation focus primarily on economic
development plans and activities, as this is the Council’s public investment
and interest is in economic development, rather than the Chamber and its
activities.
Financial considerations: The City's support for the Chamber/PCEDC is
provided through the mill-levy-funded Industrial Fund. In 2026, a 0.5 mill
was levied. The Council allocated $26,500 in the 2026 budget.
Action Recommended:
Receive Presentation by the Chamber of
Commerce and the Pawnee County Economic Development Commission.

AGENDA ITEM
New Business
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:

Street Sealing Discussion

Background and Analysis: Part of a solid, comprehensive street-sealing
program is preparation. A few years ago, the Street Dept applied mastic, a
viscous, sticky substance used as an adhesive, sealant, or filler, to several
areas in the northern part of town. The purpose was to see how it would
work and last when used to fill large cracks and seams (after thorough
cleaning) in streets soon to be sealed. The test was successful, and Adam
Perez and his crew are interested in doing this on the streets before they
are sealed.
Integrating mastic into the street-sealing process would not be particularly
expensive. Leasing a mastic machine costs $2,000 per week; during that
week, apply 5 pallets of mastic. Each pallet costs $1,470.
Rental of mastic machine
5 pallets of mastic @ $1,470
Total

$ 2,000
7,350
$ 9,350

Adam Perez will attend the meeting to discuss the mastic application and a
recommended modification to the scope of this summer’s sealing program.
The conversation will also include a discussion of the results of street
sealing over the last two years.
Financial considerations: To be determined.
Action Recommended: Discuss and evaluate an alternative plan to the
street-sealing plan and direct staff accordingly.

AGENDA ITEM
New Business
City Council Meeting
May 4, 2026
TO:

The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

FROM: Bradley Eilts, City Manager
RE:

Set June Golf Course Work Session

Background and Analysis: Councilman Murray has requested that the
Council schedule a work session with the Larned Country Club (LCC) in
June to further discuss changes and to continue a dialogue on ways to
collaborate.
Financial Considerations: None at this time.
Action Recommended: Set a Work Session with the LCC for a June date,
time, and place that works best for all involved.