The Lincoln Area Humane Society (LAHS) was represented by Anita Simmons and Charlene Griffen at the regular city council meeting Monday, March 11, asking the council’s permission to use the “firehouse” portion of the city building for a vaccination and licensing clinic. Simmons told the council they have not chosen a specific date as of yet, but plan on one weekend day in April, asking which dates might be available. The clinic would be held from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., conducted by a veterinary practice based in Beloit.
City Clerk Heather Hillegeist informed them each weekend in April is available, agreeing the city would be notified of the date set as soon as possible, requesting LAHS help in making sure licensing occurs at the same time. Hillegeist said of all the dogs currently owned as pets in Lincoln, only 17 were licensed. Licensing is important for several reasons, including compliance with state regulations, avoidance of fines and for identification purposes if dogs are loose. Rabies vaccinations are required by state law. Licenses are available with evidence of proper vaccination. Licensing fees are set to increase from $5.00 to $10.00. Jim Metz spoke to the council on behalf of the Recreation Council regarding a softball game during Bike Across Kansas (BAK) June 11. Metz requested a concession stand and beer garden. The council approved their plan and gave them guidance on obtaining a liquor license for the event. The funds will be used for the continuation of upgrading the east ball field.
Keegan Bailey, North Central Regional Planning Commission (NCRPC) presented her recommendation for the city’s ARPA funding, authorizing several items to be paid with ARPA funding, leaving the general fund intact.
Projects include Lift Station Valves in the amount of $14,706 out of $15,500 in the Expense Category of 5.5 in ARPA regulations; a 2013 Ford F250 purchase for the Street Department in the amount of $30,294 in Expense Category 5.18 in ARPA regulations and a 2005 Chevy Kodiak 4500 Truck purchase for the Water Department in the amount of $34,000 in the Expense Category of 5.18 in ARPA regulations. The total ARPA funding to be utilized in this manner is $79,000.
By following Bailey’s recommendation, funding to be utilized for the outside bathrooms next to the pool would be freed up without creating an increase in cost for the city due to engineering fees and David Bacon Wage rates.
The council approved her recommendation.
Bailey also discussed nuisance properties with the council, and a resolution for a property on Park Street. A public hearing on Resolution 24-02 was set for April 29 at 6:30 p.m. in a special council meeting.
The council also discussed compliance of nuisance property ordinances.
Mayor Travis Schwerdtfeger signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NCK Outdoors for maintenance of the hiking trail.
There have been only three applications received for pool employees for the 2024 season; one for manager and two for lifeguards. Discussion of how to interest people in applying for these positions. The council agreed to hire Kaden O’Hare as pool manager, and Olivia Dail and Mason Florence as lifeguards. A minimum of two additional lifeguards is required in order to open the pool. The base rate for new lifeguards is $10 per hour. In order to qualify for these positions, the applicant must be at least 15 years of age by the time the pool opens and complete lifeguard training. The training is now available on-line for all written requirements. A swimming test is also required. Applications may be picked up at the city office.
With no further business the meeting was adjourned. The next council meeting will be April 8 at 6:30 p.m.
