Goodland City Commission Recap – April 7, 2025

The Goodland City Commission held its regular meeting on April 7 at City Hall, with Vice-Mayor J.J. Howard leading the session in Mayor Jason Showalter’s absence.

Commissioners Ann Myers, Sarah Artzer, and Brook Redlin were present, along with city staff and department heads.

Public Acknowledgment

A letter from Sherman County Attorney Bret Mangan commended Chief Jason Erhart and the Goodland Police Department for their professionalism and commitment to community service.

Proclamation

Vice-Mayor Howard proclaimed April 13–19 as National Public Safety Telecommunicator’s Week, recognizing the essential role of dispatchers in public safety operations.

Approvals and Appointments

The Commission unanimously approved the consent agenda, including previous meeting minutes and financial ordinances. Several community volunteers were appointed to boards:

• Library Board: Paige Snethen (new), and reappointments for Katherine Franklin, Chelsie Howard, and Jacque Schields.

• Planning Commission: Reappointments for Matt McKenzie (Chairman) and Grady Bonsall.

Key Discussion Items

• Armory Backup Generator: Crissy Ridnour, Sherman County Communications Director, requested support to pursue a grant for a backup generator at the Armory building, a potential 911 backup site. Further coordination with the County Commission was suggested.

• Basketball Goals Grant Request: Paul Medrano received approval to submit a grant application to replace aging basketball hoops near West Elementary. The city acknowledged the importance of recreational spaces but noted current budget constraints due to recent park projects.

• Power Supply Contract Options: The Commission reviewed competing proposals from Sunflower and KMEA. Sunflower’s offer includes low fixed rates and removal of demand charges, while KMEA’s provides more stability and clarity. Commissioners emphasized the need for clearly defined contract terms and expressed caution given past challenges with Sunflower.

Manager and Staff Reports

• Property Demolitions: Three properties are being submitted for demolition due to lack of owner response.

• Upcoming Events:

  • Spring Cleanup is set for May 1–2

  • A City Forum hosted by the League of Kansas Municipalities will be held June 4 at City Hall.

• Electric Testing: Federal testing of electric generators will continue this year as part of a five-year cycle.

Executive Session

The Commission entered a 15-minute executive session for legal consultation. No action followed.

The meeting adjourned at 6:29 p.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 21, 2025.