Colby City Council Addresses Infrastructure, Financing, and Library Centennial Plans at Feb. 3 Meeting
February 3, 2026
The Colby City Council met Tuesday, February 3, at the Colby Event Center for a regularly scheduled meeting that covered a range of community, infrastructure, and financial items, along with an executive session related to personnel matters.
Mayor Lee Leiker called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. with all council members present. The council first approved the consent agenda without discussion, which included approval of minutes from the January 20 meeting, multiple payroll and general ordinances, and the annual renewal of a special use permit for CB Heating AC & Plumbing.
With no old business on the agenda, the council moved directly into new business, beginning with a request from library representatives regarding the allowance of alcohol sales for an upcoming centennial celebration. The council heard a presentation on plans for the Colby library’s 100th anniversary event scheduled for Friday, March 13, 2026. The ticketed evening event will include light refreshments, music, and historical reflections on the library’s role in the community, with a separate family-focused celebration planned for the following day. Council members discussed safeguards such as wristbands, ID checks, and non-alcoholic options before unanimously approving the request to allow alcohol sales for the event.
The council then approved Resolution No. 1243, authorizing the redemption of Citizen’s Medical Center industrial revenue bonds and the execution of related documentation. City representatives explained that the item had previously been approved but required reauthorization due to timing issues related to financing partners. The action allows for a new notice to bond investors and initiates a required 30-day redemption period. Council members confirmed there would be no penalty associated with the early redemption and approved the resolution unanimously.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on infrastructure, with the council approving KDOT Project No. 97 U-2449-02 for the reconstruction of Country Club Drive. The project will extend from the railroad crossing to approximately East Walnut Street, expanding the scope of previously approved work. The total project cost is $1,269,365.30, with a portion funded through KDOT and the city’s special streets fund. Discussion included questions about roadway width, curb and gutter design, and the possibility of future sidewalk additions, particularly along the west side of the roadway. The council approved the project unanimously, allowing it to move forward to final approval and construction scheduling.
The council also approved an agreement for consulting services between MuniCap Inc. and the City of Colby. The agreement, estimated between $90,000 and $95,000, covers a bond revenue study necessary for future financing efforts tied to the city’s STAR Bond project. City staff explained the study will analyze revenue potential and market feasibility and will be funded through a 2026 budget allocation already set aside for financial projects. Council members noted the importance of the study in determining next steps and expressed confidence in the consulting firm’s experience.
Following the new business items, the council recessed into executive session to review and evaluate the city manager and discuss employment terms and conditions, as allowed under Kansas statute. The council reconvened in open session at 6:05 p.m., reporting that no action was taken during the executive session.
In closing reports and comments, council members and staff shared updates on upcoming projects, recent community events, and facility tours, including future opportunities to visit city infrastructure sites. Several members expressed appreciation for Event Center staff and community partners for recent successful events. The meeting concluded with unanimous approval to adjourn.
The next regular Colby City Council meeting is scheduled for February 17.