The Chanute City Commission on Monday approved new pool rates, authorized the purchase of a digital sign near the city’s sports complex, and continued discussion of major water and wastewater infrastructure projects expected to cost more than $60 million combined.
All commissioners were present for the regularly scheduled Feb. 9 meeting. The agenda and consent agenda were approved unanimously.
During public comment, Chanute Public Library Director Jeana Lawrence reported strong community use, noting annual circulation of 82,000 items, making it the top lending library in the Southeast Kansas library system. Officials said the library provides an estimated $1.5 million in services annually and continues to expand outreach and programming throughout the community.
City Manager Todd Newman outlined funding challenges facing the city’s water and wastewater plants, projects he said have been anticipated since 2010. Estimated costs are about $26 million for water plant improvements and $36 million for wastewater upgrades.
“We have no choice,” Newman said, noting the wastewater plant is no longer meeting regulatory requirements. “We’re lucky they’re still standing.”
Funding options include the State Revolving Fund (SRF), USDA programs, grants and potential private bonds. Newman said SRF funding includes about 15% principal forgiveness but requires compliance with federal standards such as Davis-Bacon wage rules.
Commissioners discussed possible meter rate increases of $20 to $25, which could generate between $850,000 and $1 million. Newman said using inflow and infiltration funding as a down payment could reduce the overall impact on ratepayers. He added that the city’s electric plant debt has been paid off, helping keep overall debt service stable. Water system debt would likely be structured over 20 years.
Commissioners agreed the projects are critical and said rate increases would likely need to be phased in gradually. A funding work session is planned for March.
The commission also approved updated rates for the city pool, which is scheduled to open May 26 if staffing levels allow. Recreation Director Monica Colburn said lifeguard recruitment and training will determine whether the pool can open as planned, noting school schedules and state sporting events may complicate hiring.
Newman said the pool costs approximately $250,000 annually to operate. Newman noted the facility was originally built with sales tax funds, and no longterm operational funding was set aside. He described the pool as a quality-of-life amenity but acknowledged the expense. Commissioners discussed extending the facility’s usable life another five to seven years.
Commissioners approved a one-year lease agreement with the Chanute Recreation Commission (CRC) after discussion about long-term building maintenance and capital planning. Commissioner Tim Fairchild raised concerns about funding for major structural repairs and whether adequate reserves are in place.
CRC officials said they maintain reserves equal to about six months of operating expenses, a common practice for organizations without dedicated tax revenue. Colburn said CRC pays $3,500 per month — $1,000 in rent and $2,500 in utilities. Commissioners noted the lease remains year-to-year due to uncertainty about long-term funding and potential future repairs.
The commission also approved spending $46,500 on a digital sign to be installed along South Santa Fe near the new ballfields and south of the armory. Chanute Area Chamber of Commerce Director Amy Jensen said the tourism committee initially explored installing an informational kiosk, but shifted direction after researching other communities. Instead, the city plans to install a digital sign and sell advertising to help cover maintenance and software costs. Commissioners agreed the sign would provide a broader benefit.
Resolutions concerning several properties, including 808 N. Forest, were approved after a brief discussion with property owners in attendance.
Commissioners did not have a lot to say during their comments, but Mayor Jacob LaRue thanked Jensen and the community for a wonderful Chamber dinner last month. Chanute City Commission will meet for their next regular meeting on Feb. 23rd at 6:30 pm in the commission room
