Bethany Council Discusses Perceived Shortcoming Of Mutual Aid Fire Agreement With Gilman City

Bethany’s Board of Aldermen approved the 2023 fiscal year budget for the city during their final meeting of the calendar and fiscal year Monday night. The budget approved includes $23.3 million dollars in revenue and expenses.

Council members will start exploring options the city has in regard to the Fire District Mutual Aid Agreement with the Gilman City Fire District. The city is displeased of the response rate of the Gilman City Fire Department to fires which are in their own district for which Bethany’s Fire Department responds with mutual aid. The city feels that the Gilman City Fire District is not providing the necessary support for the mutual aid agreement. Bethany City Attorney Tara Walker says an Open Records Request could be made for the financial records of the Gilman City Fire Department as an option available to the city. City Administrator Jacob Taylor says the city doesn’t have the same extent of difficulty in getting support from the other districts which participate in the mutual aid arrangement.

Bethany council members discussed the recognition which will be given to those donating to the Train Depot Location. The relocation bid approved with Patton Structural Solutions, LLC. of Paola, Kansas is for $50,000. The city is working with the Chamber of Commerce to finance some of the cost through donations. The goal is to raise $20,000 for the endeavor. The city discussed a three-level donation system Monday night which would recognize those contributing with plaques. Those wishing to donate to the project can contact the Bethany Chamber of Commerce, Bethany City Hall, or members of the Bethany City Council. Checks can be made out to the Bethany Chamber of Commerce, and “Save the Depot” should be written on the memo line. The city’s partnership with the Bethany Chamber is being used so that the contributions are tax deductible.

Larry Simpson’s property at 614 South 12th Street was chosen as the winner of the City of Bethany’s Christmas Lighting Contest. $500 off the next utility bill goes to the winner. Linda Taylor’s address at 706 South 22nd was selected as the runner-up and will receive $250 dollars off the future electric bill. Rick Wilson’s address at 2104 Hubbard was chosen for the $100 electric bill rebate for 3rd place.