Managing editor
Marion City Council took the first step Monday in seeking grant funds to replace a sewer line in Jex Addition.
The council approved a grant-writing proposal with Rose Mary Saunders of Ranson Financial Services not to exceed $4,500. She will seek a Community Development Block Grant for the project. The consultant will prepare the necessary paperwork for the grant as well as the application for a Kansas Department of Health and Environment Revolving Loan.
It will have to be determined by survey if the city meets the low-to-moderate-income level required to apply for the grant.
Refinancing of spec building
The final, balloon payment of $85,151 for a city-owned speculative building constructed five years ago as an enticement for a new business will come due in July. The current lease-purchase agreement is a consortium with the three Marion banks — Central National Bank, Marion National Bank, and Tampa State Bank. The entities are willing to refinance the lease for another five years at 5 percent interest.
The council agreed to move forward to refinance the building.
Other business
Payments of $9,998 to APAC-Kansas Incorporated and $1,243 to Bucher Willis and Ratliff were approved for the waterline replacement project in the southeast part of the city. The council also approved a withdrawal of $4,700 from the grant fund to help pay the bills. The remainder of the costs will come from the bond fund. APAC will plant grass seed in the coming weeks on the rights of way.
Kansas Department of Health and Environment will restrict burning operations in Marion County in April. The city’s tree burn site does not qualify and cannot be burned next month. Agriculture producers may continue to burn range and pasture.
The inspection of city dikes and the deadline for the city to meet flood hazard standards have been delayed, giving the city more time to comply.
Charles Heerey presented an annual report from Marion Housing Authority board of directors, which oversees Hilltop Manor. The units remain occupied with a waiting list.
The council entered into a 15-minute executive session to discuss personnel with Kjellin and City Attorney Dan Baldwin. There was no action. There was a second closed session for 10 minutes to discuss personnel with only Kjellin with no action.
The next regular council meeting will be 4:30 p.m. April 4 in the city building.