Great Bend Post
The Great Bend City Council will have a lot to consider in its final meeting of August tonight at City Hall. The body will hear from City Administrator Logan Burns and Great Bend Economic Development President Jason Kuilan before hearing an additional six agenda items.
Tonight's meeting will include a public meeting and hearing on the Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project. The city applied for State Revolving Funding (SRF) in May. The city received approval from KDHE stating it was selected for the 2027 intended-use plan to apply for a loan in the amount of $26.31 million, with an estimated loan forgiveness amount of $1 million. In order to remain eligible for the funding, the city must submit a full application to KDHE by Oct. 15.
The council will also consider approval of adoption of the 2026 Edition of the Uniform Public Offense Code. Significant changes would include making it unlawful to approach or remain within 25 feet of a first responder engaged in performance of duties under certain circumstances. Changes would also increase the mandatory jail sentence for a second domestic battery conviction from five days to 20 days, and also allow citizens to capture feral cats to have them spayed or neutered and/or vaccinated without being charged with animal cruelty.
The council will similarly consider adoption of the 2026 Edition of the Standard Traffic Ordinance (STO), including three major changes. One change would prohibit the use of cell phones in school and construction zones unless stopped or using a hands-free device. Another change would allow vehicles engaged in highway construction to display flashing lights of various colors.
Another section of the STO will address electric bikes and scooters. Amendments would include restricting which streets on which e-bikes and scooters may be operated, imposing a helmet requirement for operators under the age of 18, restricting electric scooter speed, and imposing lighting and baking equipment requirements.
The council will also consider approving $59,609 in Façade Improvement Grant funding, and approving bids for video and audio improvements as the Crest Theatre.
Tonight's Great Bend City Council meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.