BY ANGELA K. HOLT | June 7, 2023

Council members for the city of Blue Mound met on Monday, June 5, for their regular monthly meeting.

The council approved the rental of a handicap-accessible port-a-potty for use during the Blue Mound Fourth of July celebration on Saturday, July 1. Mayor Russell Beth noted he was looking into the purchase of port-a-potties for the city to use during events, if the council was interested, which they were. 

Council member Donnie Rhynerson brought to the other council members’ attention maintenance that needs to be done on City Hall, noting that it would cost much less to fix in the near future, rather than waiting until larger problems surfaced. Rhynerson included in the maintenance painting of the roof, sealing leaking windows, and adding more insulation to the shop area. Others agreed, and it was noted to keep those repairs in mind when setting the budget for the next year.

In other new business, the council discussed an individual who had been dumping waste at the city’s sewage plant, causing issues with maintenance to the lagoon. The council discussed options over letting the sewage plant be available for future dumping by individuals. The topic was tabled for two months while city employees work out a solution.

City Clerk Max Krull informed the water study was 90 percent complete. He also stated that KDHE has loans and grants available once the study is complete. Krull will provide more information to the council once the study is completed.

Krull next informed council members of available ARPA funds to fix two manholes in need of repair.

The Blue Mound Federated Church had approached the city, asking for permission to pour concrete in front of the church to make it more handicapped accessible. Council agreed the church could proceed with the concrete.  

Council was informed to turn off utilities at a residence due to court order. Krull noted it would be done.

City maintenance employee Carl Beth updated the council on work being done at the lake. He informed them that the spillway and erosion control was continuing, and discussed options on its current condition. Council did vote and approved the purchase of piping for work on the lake.

In other business, the council approved the following: minutes from the previous meeting; payment of bills in the amount of $32,805.76; and the Cereal Malt Beverage special event permit for the Sunflower Saloon for July 1.