Liberal City Commission Meets, Reorganizes

The Liberal City Commission met on Tuesday evening and said goodbye to two commissioners and swore in four. At the regular meeting of the Liberal City Commission on Tuesday evening, the Commission presented plaques to outgoing Mayor Tim Long, who was out of town on business, and accepted by his wife Terri. who then read a statement from Mayor Long, and to an emotional Larry Koochel. The Police Department also presented special awards to the two men, one making Commissioner Koochel an honorary, lifetime member of the Liberal Police Department. In old business, the commission tabled the presentation from Retail Attractions, as Rickey Hayes was unable to be in attendance at the meeting. A special meeting will be set up in the near future for the presentation. Commissioners also approved the purchase of a Thermal Imager, using donated funds, for the Fire Department. During the Reorganization portion of the meeting, Commissioners elect Dave Harrison, Joe Denoyer, Ron Warren, and Dean Aragon were sworn into office. Dave Harrison was then appointed Mayor, and after current Vice Mayor Joe Denoyer, turned down the nomination to remain Vice Mayor, Janet Willimon was selected as the new Vice Mayor. In other action the commissioner approved the purchase of a compter server for the Fire Department, appointed Sue Lepper to a 4 year term on the Housing Authority Board, and also approved several purchases for the Police Department. Approved was the puchase of ammunition, AR-15 rifles for the Tactical Team, Holster purchases, and 3 new Chevy Tahoes for Line Cars. The vehicles were purchased from Don Hattan Chevrolet in Wichita for $73,200.00. Commissioners also approved the equipment to outfit these vehicles in the amount of $35,024.00. Debbie Giskie, City Clerk/Airport Manager, presented the Commission, with the Perfect Inspection award from the FAA for Liberals Municipal Airport. The next meeting of the Liberal City Commission will be April 23rd