Oberlin City Council April 17th Recap

by Derek White

The Oberlin City Council held a productive meeting on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Gateway Conference Center, addressing several key community issues and projects.

City Manager David Sporn updated the council on the progress of a new animal impound facility, noting that city crews are making necessary modifications to an existing city-owned building. The facility, located near the city's burn pile, will soon be operational with new kennels already purchased and installed.

The Council also heard positive news regarding the city's water management. City employee Jack Mumm successfully passed his water operator's exam, earning his official permit during a recent conference in Wichita.

A major topic of discussion was the Airport Access Road and Parking Lot Rehabilitation Project. The council unanimously accepted a bid from Screed Tech LLC from Fairbury, Nebraska, amounting to $413,439.75, contingent on FAA approval. With potential grant funding, the city's out-of-pocket cost could be significantly reduced to just under $5,000. City Manager Sporn was authorized as the signer for related documentation.

Council members also reaffirmed their support for the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center, approving a budget allocation of $4,500 for 2026. The organization provides critical mobile services to children in Oberlin and surrounding areas, facing potential uncertainty in federal and state funding.

The city's recreational facilities received attention as well. Manager Sporn updated council members on efforts to clarify responsibilities and expenses for local baseball fields, collaborating with Decatur County, USD #294, and the Lions Club. Additionally, the council approved Charlotte Ebert’s proposal to operate the city pool’s snack shack for the upcoming season.

In public safety developments, the council agreed to accept an insurance settlement for a damaged 2021 Dodge Charger patrol vehicle, while also approving the purchase of a new 2025 Dodge Durango from Davis-Moore dealership in Wichita.

Wrapping up the session, council members discussed the upcoming City-Wide Clean-Up Day scheduled for April 28th, encouraging community participation and emphasizing timely registration through the City Office.