September 8, 2026 Commission Minutes

GOODLAND CITY COMMISSION

Regular Meeting

September 8, 2026                                                                                                                5:00 P.M.

Mayor Jason Showalter called the meeting to order with Vice-Mayor J. J. Howard, Commissioner Angie Cloyd and Commissioner Brook Redlin responding to roll call. 

Also present were Jason Erhart –Chief of Police, Joshua Jordan – IT Director, Kenton Keith – Director of Streets and Facilities, Neal Thornburg – Director of Water and Wastewater, Danny Krayca – Director of Parks, Zach Hildebrand – Code Enforcement/Building Official, Jake Kling – City Attorney, Shauna Johnson – Deputy City Clerk and Kent Brown – City Manager.

Mayor Showalter led Pledge of Allegiance

PUBLIC HEARING

  1. 2027 Budget to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate – Mayor Showalter opened the public hearing for the 2027 Budget to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate at 5:04 p.m.  Kent stated, the Resolution in the packet does have an error in the publish budget rate, that rate which should be 55.74 not 54.74. After budget discussion, the rate was reduced to 54.966.  ON A MOTION by Mayor Showalter to approve Resolution 2026-17: Levy a Property Tax Rate Exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate seconded by Vice-Mayor Howard.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 4-0.  Mayor Showalter closed the public hearing for 2026 Budget to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate at 5:05 p.m. 
  2. 2027 Budget Hearing – Mayor Showalter opened the public hearing for the 2027 Budget at 5:05 p.m. Mayor Showalter expressed his appreciation of the efforts of the city manager and department heads that worked to bring the budget down to prevent an increase in taxes. Mayor Showalter closed public hearing for the 2026 Budget Hearing at 5:08 p.m.

BUDGET APPROVAL

  1. Approve 2027 Budget – Commissioner Redlin proposed utilizing $5,000 from the existing SCCD allocation to cover the estimated cost of an audit, which would reduce the net distribution to $88,000. Commissioner Cloyd questioned how that would align with the existing contract or agreed-upon terms with the existing contract with SCCD. Mayor Showalter questioned the need for an audit, noting that SCCD’s city-provided funds provide salaries and benefits for two employees. Vice-Mayor Howard stated those things would be transparent on their tax return.  Commissioner Redlin stated, independent oversight and clear paper trail for all funds distributed by the city, including those provided to local 501(C3) organizations is important.  Commission consensus is to approve the budget as presented and explore alternative areas for the $5,000 audit cost. ON A MOTION by Vice-Mayor Howard to approve the 2027 budget at the rate of 54.966 mills or net expenditures of $13,925,056, which is less that the rate published for the budget seconded by Commissioner Cloyd.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 4-0. 

APPOINTMENT FOR COMMISSIONER VACANCY

  1. Appointment for Vacancy – Mayor Showalter stated, last commission meeting Sandra Dumler and Rachelle Standley expressed interest in filling the vacancy from Sarah Artzer.  ON A MOTION by Commissioner Redlin to appoint Sandra Dumler to fill the unexpired term of Sarah Artzer on the commission seconded by Commissioner Cloyd.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 4-0. 
  2. Administer Oath of Office – Shauna administered the Oath of Office to Sandra Dumler.

PUBLIC COMMENT

  1. Dean Graber, citizen is present to address the Commission and express opposition to sidewalks included in the 8th Street reconstruction project. Dean stated, I personally contacted approximately two-thirds of the property owners along 8th street.  Most were unaware of the sidewalk plans.  I explained to the citizens my opposition to the addition of sidewalk in the plans.  I have received two written confirmations of opposition and noted various verbal feedback with one resident in favor.  Dean urged the City to improve communication to contact property owners regarding upcoming projects.  I obtained clearer information discussing the project with staff from EBH then attending meetings. I could consider a sidewalk in the project only on the north side.  Mainly because it is not on my side of the street, but that is not the only reason.  From Kansas Avenue west, 8th Street is five feet narrower than it is east of Kansas Avenue.  I am concerned that adding sidewalks would encroach easements and disrupt existing infrastructure, including landscaping, sprinkler systems and utility poles.  How will the project handle integration with existing sidewalks?  While the City holds right to the easement, property owners are responsible for maintaining it and should have a voice in what happens in the easement.  In conclusion, I have lived on West 8th Street for 46 years and see no reason for a sidewalk.  I am requesting that all future street construction plans remain strictly within the existing curb lines.
  2. Breann Penrod citizen stated, I am here to discuss the new ordinance on e-bicycles on Main Street.  I understand and agree with the safety concerns.  As a parent we have the responsibility to decide if we are comfortable with our children riding on Main Street; however, I feel there is a bigger concern.  If the concern stems from drivers distracted on their phones or not paying attention, the problem is not the e-bicycle.  If bicycles and vehicles are legally allowed to share the road, the focus should be enforcing the laws rather than removing cyclists’ access to the road.  The solution should be for all drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to follow the rules and pay attention; as well as proper enforcement.  I love walking but I suffer from chronic pain, making walking unbearable some days. Riding my bike is my primary way to access downtown businesses without a vehicle.  I believe vehicles, pedestrians and bikes can safely coexist on Main Street just like they do in other communities, provided everyone follows the rules and laws are properly enforced.  Taking away the access is an overreach rather than a solution.
  3. Curtis Penrod citizen, stated, I want to discuss Ordinance 1825 pertaining to sections 16-401 through 409 and section 411 of the code.  I do not understand how children on e-bikes and electric dirt bikes not following traffic laws have pivoted into the prohibition of bicycles on Main Street during business hours.  It is my understanding the justification for the new ordinance was because there was no way to issue a citation with current law.  The city should enforce existing traffic laws rather than impose additional regulations on law abiding citizens.  If someone is speeding, issue a citation rather than lowering the speed limit.  In July the commission adopted the Standard Traffic Ordinance which clearly outlines enforcement of such laws.  If the city passes a new ordinance every time a new device appears, they will be trapped in an endless loop of writing new laws for every emerging mode of transportation.  Instead of restricting healthy, alternative transportation used daily by families, students, and patrons of downtown, the city should actively support it by adding sidewalks, bike lanes, and bike racks. Restricting bicycles, e-bicycles and e-scooters on Main Street hurts downtown businesses by stopping visitors from riding into town. Mr. Penrod rejects social media arguments that drivers have too much to focus on, stating that motor vehicle technology exists to assist drivers and that the legal responsibility to avoid collisions rests firmly on the motorist.  Someone’s fear is not sufficient reason to restrict someone else’s rights, implement rules-of-the-road education in schools or require unsupervised children to pass a basic competency test before riding on public streets or require parental supervision.  To be clear, I do not want anyone to be hit by a car.  I feel the result of this ordinance is non-enforcement of existing laws and it does not need to exist.  Also, I need to mention the street naming error in the ordinance, it should be Main Avenue not Main Street. I urge the city to add an explicit exception for individuals with mobility disabilities to prevent accidental ADA violations and potential lawsuits.

CONSENT AGENDA

  1. 08/17/26 Commission Meeting Minutes
  2. Appropriation Ordinances: 2026-17, 2026-17A and 2026-P17

ON A MOTION by Vice-Mayor Howard to approve Consent Agenda seconded by Commissioner Redlin.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 4-0, with Commissioner Dumler abstaining from vote.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS

  1. Resolution 2026-18 – Set Public Hearing, Unfit Structure at 1710 Syracuse Ave. – Zach stated, multiple letters have been mailed with no return or answer.  I also sent a notice about the grant for demolition and received no answer.  The roof’s starting to collapse and the foundation crumbling underneath it. ON A MOTION by Mayor Showalter to approve Resolution 2026-18Set Public Hearing, Unfit Structure at 1710 Syracuse Ave. seconded by Commissioner Redlin.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 5-0.
  2. Resolution 2026-19 – Set Public Hearing, Unfit Structure at 608 W 16th Street – Zach stated, this property was first put in front of the commission in 2001.  The bare minimum was done to satisfy the needs for the commission at that time but nothing done to demolish the structure.  The east end of the building is leaning to the north and the west end of the building is leaning to the south. Multiple letters have been sent with no response.  I also sent information for demolition grant and no response. ON A MOTION by Commissioner Redlin to approve Resolution 2026-19Set Public Hearing, Unfit Structure at 608 W 16th Street seconded by Commissioner Howard.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 5-0.

FORMAL ACTIONS

  1. Temporary Community Event Permit Application – Kent stated, Traditions has submitted an application for a temporary community event permit during Flatlanders. He has completed the application for three sites throughout the festival on Main Street. Chief Erhart stated, the only issue last year was the number of signs posted, that has been corrected.  The application looks exactly like last year. ON A MOTION by Mayor Showalter to approve the Temporary Community Event Permit for Traditions under the care and order of Justin Stasser during Flatlander Festival seconded by Commissioner Redlin.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 5-0.
  2. Airport Fixed Base Operator Contract – Kent stated, the contract for Butterfly Aviation as Fixed Base Operator at the airport expired.  Butterfly Aviation has asked for some additional consideration to the original contract due to there has been some additional mowing added to their maintenance. This contract does increase the rental income percentage allowed and reduces the utility cost in exchange for the ground’s maintenance of the airfield. ON A MOTION by Commissioner Cloyd to approve the contract with Butterfly Aviation as Fixed Base Operator at the Goodland Airport seconded by Commissioner Howard.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 4-0, with Commissioner Dumler abstaining from vote.
  3. Amendment to Interlocal Agreement for SCCD – Kent stated, this is amendment to Interlocal Agreement for SCCD discussed at last meeting.  It was presented and approved by the County Commission.  If approved by the City Commission it would bet sent the State Attorney General to make sure it does not violate any State Statute. ON A MOTION by Commissioner Cloyd to approve the amendment to the Interlocal Agreement with Sherman County regarding the SCCD seconded by Vice-Mayor Howard.  MOTION carried on a VOTE of 3-1, with Commissioner Redlin casting the dissenting vote and Commissioner Dumler abstaining from vote.

DISCUSSION

  1. 8TH Street Project – Follow Up. – Andrew Brunner, EBH Engineer gave an update on the 8th Street project. Mayor Showalter asked, what is the plan for communication with the residents?  Andrew stated, they will get out to the area as the project gets closer unless the Commission would like it sooner.  Mayor Showalter stated, I would prefer sooner rather than later.  Commissioner Cloyd asked, had the decision been made if and where sidewalks would be located or is that information is still being determined? The initial proposal is to install sidewalks on both sides of the street the entire length.  While existing sidewalks generally run on one or both sides up to Kansas Street, there is very little sidewalk infrastructure west of Kansas.  Extending sidewalks west of Kansas is being considered to connect future housing developments and to provide a safe route for children walking to and from West School. Andrew stated, the price per block will depend on the block, but in general it will be from $15,000 to $20,000 per block. As mentioned before there is still the decision on lighting, there is an industrial option or architectural option. Commissioner Cloyd asked, at what point does the decision need to made about the sidewalks? Andrew stated, preferably before the bid is sent out that way there can be a solid plan for the contractor.  Mayor Showalter stated, I feel the community needs to be more walkable and things need to be done to make sure our community can get around, not just people with cars or bikes.  I am in favor of the sidewalk on one side or the other. Commissioner Dumler asked, how did this project get started?  Kent stated, it started with the need to fix the crown on the road, then continued on with what else can we take care of while we are there and how do we want it to look when complete. Vice-Mayor Howard stated, I would like to see sidewalk on either side, it goes back to the walking trail that was supposed to go all the way out to the golf course. Commissioner Cloyd stated, it makes it much safer having a sidewalk, when a street does not have one the only option is to walk on the street.  Kent stated, this project will be paid for with the 1% sales tax that was designated for roads and identified in the sales tax election.  It was decided 8th St project would be best due to the fact this is our entrance into town.  Since that tax passed, the city has put the financing together based on the sales tax to do the project in full. The final estimate will be different depending on the cost of concrete and the contractor.  There may be the situation where the project may need to change based on cost.  The goal is to have first part of the project this winter which would be the entrance on K-27 to Cattletrail. Commissioner Dumler asked, have bikes been brought up?  Andrew informed the commission the only way to add a bike lane would be to widen the street, which he did not think they were considering.  The width of 42 feet was determined by 12 feet a piece for vehicle lanes, that included the cars parked at the curb, then 6 feet for the rick in the road during a winter snow storm. It was asked if Andrew would provide a cost for no sidewalk and a sidewalk on one side for the next meeting. 

REPORTS

  1. City Manager – 1.  Manager memo, August Month End Fund Balance Report and Police Monthly Activity Report are in the packet.  2. There was a reply to the curing letter request for EDA Grant stating they are currently reviewing.  3. The Easel is currently on the ground; Woofter Construction should be back on Thursday to install brackets on the easel and put the easel back up.  4. The waterslide project is complete and the slide required sanding, buffing and then a gel coat.  5.  The water tower painting project will be starting before expected.  They will begin this week instead of end of September into October.  The tank is scheduled to be drained on Tuesday.  First step will be the interior, taking off the old paint and repainting, next will be the stripping of the outside and repainting it white.  There will be a new logo placed on the outside for $25,000.  Staff is asking for some direction in the design of the logo that will be placed on the tower.  Commission indicated they would like to see a couple of different designs before deciding. 6.  School has asked for a road closure to help with construction of building.
  2. City Commissioners

Vice-Mayor Howard – 1.  Welcome Commissioner Dumler, thank City staff for all the work they do.

Commissioner Dumler – 1. Looking forward to working with the other Commissioners, and thank the Staff for all they do, one reason for running was because all the great people in Goodland.

Commissioner Cloyd – 1. Welcome Commissioner Dumler, thank City staff for all the modification to the budget. Thank you for sending out the water consumption post cards.

Commissioner Redlin – 1.  Welcome Commissioner Dumler, thank City staff for the work they did on the budget and out in the field. 

EXECUTIVE SESSION

  1. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Under the Authority of KSA 75-4319 (b) (1) for personnel matters of non-elected personnel – Mayor Showalter made a motion at 6:22 p.m. to recess into executive session under authority of K.S.A.75-4319 (b) (1) to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel not to exceed five minutes.   I request the City Commission and City Manager be present.  Vice-Mayor Howard seconded the motion.  MOTION carried by a VOTE of 5-0.  Meeting resumed at 6:27 p.m.  Mayor Showalter made a second motion at 6:27 p.m. to recess into executive session under authority of K.S.A.75-4319 (b) (1) to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel not to exceed ten minutes.   I request the City Commission and City Manager be present.  Vice-Mayor Howard seconded the motion.  MOTION carried by a VOTE of 5-0.  Meeting resumed at 6:37 p.m.
  2. Action from Executive Session – Mayor Showalter gave direction to amend the City Manager contract to provide transportation for the City Manager to be used for personal and business purposes.

ADJOURNMENT WAS HAD ON A MOTION BY Commissioner Redlin seconded by Commissioner Cloyd.  Motion carried by unanimous VOTE; meeting adjourned at 6:41 p.m.  Next meeting is scheduled for September 21, 2026.

_____________________________

ATTEST:                                                                               Jason Showalter, Mayor

_______________________

Shauna Johnson, Deputy City Clerk

Leave a Reply