For the second time in less than two years, the City of Severy is moving forward with code enforcement efforts to clean up a property in the city limits, involving the same tenant.
During their December monthly meeting, the council approved continuing clean-up efforts at 401 N. Hobart Avenue. Since the process began in early 2024, the city has received additional complaints regarding the trash, food and personal items that are “overflowing” the property owned by Kathie Newman. “The situation is bad,” stated City Attorney Alleen VanBebber. “There are now appliances that have been left on the city’s property,” she stated. It was noted that the majority of the items are on her property; however, some items had been placed on the sidewalk or in the rightof- way. “It is a safety concern,” stated the council.
The council approved Resolution 2024-8, referencing the property violation and directed the city code enforcement officer to serve Newman with a notice allowing 10 business days to clean the property or the city will move forward in removing the items at her expense. It was also suggested that the city contact the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office and see if they can provide assistance. Following the meeting, it was shared that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment had been contacted and the city planned to utilize the resources they offered. The City of Severy also completed this process in August 2023 with a property rented by Newman.
During the Water Superintendent report, Paul Schmidt shared the tower inspection was held; however, he hadn’t received the report as of their December meeting. He plans to share the findings during the January council meeting. Schmidt also noted that a heater had been struggling to operate at capacity. It was believed it would cost approximately $3,000 to replace. Schmidt hoped to have crews try to repair the heater; however, noted it was an older unit and may need to be replaced.
A 15-minute executive session was held for legal matters with Attorney VanBebber. No action was taken.
In new business, City Clerk Tessa Riggs stated that the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) obligation deadline was approaching. The deadline to obligate funds is Dec. 31. Clerk Riggs noted she had spoken with a representative at the United States Treasury Department who noted that the City of Severy has completed the necessary requirements in the obligation process.
Due to illness, the code enforcer was absent from the meeting.
After announcing that she was resigning from active practice in open session, Attorney VanBebber noted that she would no longer be able to serve as council for the City of Severy. After noting that Council President Marc Warren had been authorized to find a new attorney, Mayor Donna Wiss appointed William McClendon to the position. In order to serve in this new capacity, he will be required to resign from the treasurer role he currently holds. The council approved the appointment. “We appreciate everything you have done for us, Alleen,” stated council member Ronald Robert. The sentiment was echoed by fellow council members.
In planning ahead, the council approved to move the September meeting to Thursday, Sept. 4, due to the Labor Day holiday. The council approved to give full-time employees a $ 1 0 0 Christmas bonus and part-time employees a $50 Christmas bonus. In discussing employee raises, the council opted to table the topic until the January meeting due to having new employees on staff.
The minutes of the November meeting, bills totaling $30,499.49 and treasurer’s report, which noted no amendments being needed before the end of the year, were approved as presented.
In old business, the council approved assigning the address of 303 S. Railroad Ave. to a new house being constructed on a vacant lot at near South Railroad Ave. and East South Street.
Two 15- minute executive sessions were held for personnel matters, with no action being taken following either.
Council member Lyle Riggs shared with fellow council that a few community members have asked about unincorporating. City Attorney VanBebber noted that this was not a quick or easy task and definitely wouldn’t recommend it for Severy. Becoming unincorporated could eliminate services provided by the city, including water, sewer and trash.
The next scheduled meeting for the City of Severy is Monday, Jan. 6, at 7 p.m.
