October 27, 2026 City Commission Meeting

The October 27, 2026 City Commission meeting included several procurement- and infrastructure-related actions. The commission approved Ordinance 3056-2026 authorizing up to $13.675 million in general obligation bonds for wastewater and water-reuse projects. The work includes an estimated $8.9 million influent pump and headworks facility, and the water-reuse project has $19.1 million in federal grant support with a $4.775 million local obligation. Staff estimated annual debt service of approximately $1.55 million. The commission also approved the Friends of Lee Richardson Zoo’s request to close the zoo for setup on December 12 and charge admission for its Wild Lights event; proceeds will support zoo improvements, with staff overtime required.

The commission approved rezoning four properties on Pats Drive for a Golden Plains Credit Union employee parking lot, adopting the less-intensive C1 zoning recommendation; the vote was 4–1. Site-plan review will still address drainage, circulation, lighting, and landscaping. It also selected the Garden City Arts proposal for the State Theater and authorized contract negotiations; final fiscal impact will depend on the negotiated terms. The commission approved a city resolution supporting T Square Ventures LLC’s application for Kansas housing tax credits for the Community Garden Town Home Project; the city has no fiscal obligation for the credits. Airport updates noted that the parking lot is under construction with completion expected December 19, while Taxiway Alpha work has shifted to March or April. The commission also directed staff to solicit internal interest in the interim city manager position, with a process and timeline intended to return at the next meeting.