Atwood City Council recap – April 24, 2025

by Derek White

Atwood’s City Council met for its regular session on April 24, with Mayor Janet Stice and all council members in attendance. The evening was packed with community updates, infrastructure progress, and a few lighthearted moments that showed local government in action.

Supporting Kids, Cars, and the Community

The meeting kicked off with Don Rivera from the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center, who shared powerful statistics—42 children in Rawlins County received services last year. He asked the council to continue their annual financial support of $1,500 for 2026.

Next, Tyrel Prideaux got the council’s nod to host the ever-popular Rod Run on May 17–18, including downtown street closures and one-way traffic around the lake to improve safety. The request sailed through with full support.

Rod Carroll then stepped up to request changes to the 24/7 no-parking zone on 8th Street. After explaining the difficulty of backing out of his driveway, the council voted to revise the restriction to weekdays only, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Big Dollars and Board Appointments

David Blau of Miller & Associates presented Pay Application #1 for the city’s ARPA Water Project. The council unanimously approved a $156,769.87 payment to BSB Construction.

Mayor Stice also recommended three appointments to the Library Board—Frank Easterday (reappointment), and newcomers Laura Boston and Meredith Willis. The council gave their approval.

Department Updates: From Nuisance Law to Movie Night

City Clerk Dana Philpott reported on grant submissions and a training she and the deputy clerk attended. She also brought forward a new maintenance contract from Glassman for HVAC and ice machines at City Hall ($850/year) and the theater ($1,200/year). Council requested a similar contract for the library beginning in 2026.

City Attorney Charles Peckham discussed court cases, nuisance complaints, and legal prep. When asked about junk vehicles in a neighbor’s yard, the council agreed that enforcement should not involve entering fenced yards unless vehicles are visible from the street.

Chief of Police Brian Withington reported 20 cases, 8 arrests, 15 traffic stops, and various patrol duties over the past month.

City Superintendent Rick Kramer shared that his crew has been busy mowing, prepping the pool, and supporting the water project. Increased water loss prompted a plan to replace old meters. Two zoning variance hearings are also scheduled for next week.

Council & Mayor Wrap-Up

Council members shared updates ranging from airport grant news and firetruck maintenance to a summer movie fundraiser. Councilwoman Tongish noted that five movies will be shown at the theater starting June 5, with $20 movie passes available. Summer rec movies will begin July 10.

Mayor Stice reminded everyone that three city council seats are up for election this year, with the filing deadline set for noon on June 2.

Until Next Time...

With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. It was a productive night for Atwood—balancing big projects, small-town challenges, and plenty of community spirit.