City of Gardner Council Meeting 09/21/2026

The City of Gardner, Kansas held a council meeting on September 21, 2026, where several key procurement and development matters were discussed. The council approved rezoning ordinances for two major development projects: the Velocity Arts mixed-use development involving a 215-acre site with commercial, educational, and entertainment facilities, and a residential project rezoning five lots for garden apartments. The Velocity Arts project includes infrastructure improvements and will require further approvals, including from county and airport commissions. The council also authorized contract amendments and bond issuances for significant capital improvement projects, including a $3.15 million amendment to the Kil Creek Water Resource Recovery Facility expansion contract with Crossland Heavy Contractors, and general obligation bonds totaling over $40 million for sewage, water, and electrical system improvements. Additionally, the council approved a contract with Swipes Engineering Labs for SCADA system upgrades to modernize the city's electrical distribution controls. Public comments addressed concerns about traffic, parking, and neighborhood impacts related to the developments. Motions to approve ordinances and contracts were passed with majority votes, with some council members expressing reservations about certain decisions. The meeting concluded with executive sessions on personnel matters.