ELLY GRIMM
• Leader & Times
A pair of City of Liberal employees got some special recognition from the Liberal City Commission at its most recent meeting Tuesday evening.
Up first to be recognized was Mandy Read from the Tourism Department as the Employee of the Quarter.
“It is my pleasure to present the very first Employee of the Quarter Award. This quarter’s recognition focuses on community impact and recognizing an individual who has shown outstanding dedication to citywide events and planning, is someone whose work actively strengthens and uplifts our community,” Director of Human Resources Angelica Arroyo said. “The recipient of this award has gone above and beyond not just in making wonderful contributions to the community but also showing a collaborative spirit. I am proud to announce the inaugural Employee of the Quarter is Mandy Read. Mandy’s work has a wonderful impact on our community and her commitment and hard work don’t go unnoticed, and we’re very grateful for everything she does.”
Up next to receive recognition was City Clerk Alicia Hidalgo as Liberal Mayor Jose Lara read a proclamation for 56th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week, which is set for May 4 through 10.
“WHEREAS, The Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk, a time honored and vital part local government exists throughout the world, and WHEREAS, The Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk is the oldest among public servants, and WHEREAS, The Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk provides the professional link between the citizens, the local governing bodies and agencies of government at other levels,” Lara read. “And WHEREAS, Professional Municipal Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all. WHEREAS, The Professional Municipal Clerk serves as the information center on functions of local government and community. WHEREAS, Professional Municipal Clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk through participation in education programs, seminars, workshops and the annual meetings of their state, provincial, county and international professional organizations. WHEREAS, It is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk. Now, Therefore, I recognize the week of May 4 through May 10 as Professional Municipal Clerks Week and further extend appreciation to our Professional Municipal Clerk, Alicia Hidalgo, and to all Professional Municipal Clerks for the vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent.”
Hidalgo then shared some exciting news.
“At our conference last month, during our spring board meeting, I was sworn in as the president of the City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association of Kansas (CCMFOA), so I will be serving in that role,” Hidalgo said. “I will also have the privilege of carrying the Kansas flag at the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) international conference next month, which is really exciting. I want to thank you all for allowing me to attend meetings and education and teach classes.”
In new business, after hearing an economic development update from Eli Svaty (See Sunday’s L&T for a recap of his remarks), the commission also discussed Resolution No. 2433 concerning the abatement of vehicle nuisances in Liberal.
“Per the agenda, Resolution No. 2433 is for the abatement of junked vehicles in various locations throughout the City of Liberal,” Code Enforcement Officer James Kulow said. “All owners of the vehicles or property owners of where the vehicles are located have been notified of the violations of the city code, and the 10-day period for abatement, as required by our city ordinance, has elapsed.”
After some brief discussion, the resolution was ultimately unanimously approved. The commission then moved on to discussion of the purchase of a mower for the Streets Department.
“The Streets Department is requesting the purchase of a 15’ mower. The current mower is 15 years old and in need of constant attention,” Streets Department Director Jesus Cardenas said. “This was a 2025 budget item, initially from the General Fund, but after consultation with finance, the decision was made to take the expense from 1-cent Sales Tax Streets, Drainage, and Other Capital Improvements portion, as several capital expenses utilized by the Streets Department have been budgeted to this fund in the past. Only one quote was obtained due to the limited local carriers of Rhino mowers. All of our current 15’ mowers are Rhino brand, so most parts are interchangeable.”
After some brief discussion, the purchase was approved 4-0, with Commissioner Jeff Parsons abstaining.
To conclude the meeting’s new business, the commission approved new Mission, Vision, and Values statements. The new Mission Statement will read “To provide an exceptional quality of life for residents by nurturing a healthy economy full of opportunities; creating safe and connected neighborhoods; and embracing our diversity to foster a positive and welcoming community culture,” and the new Vision Statement will read “Liberal is a socially and physically connected community full of opportunities for all residents to prosper and enjoy generous quality of life resources. We are known for our welcoming mindset and work hard to achieve our community goals through innovative thinking and involvement from our residents. Liberal is an attractive and safe community where residents choose to live, work, play, and grow.”
The new Values will be Community collaboration and engagement; Integrity and transparency in decision-making; Adaptability towards changing needs; Fiscal responsibility and efficient operations; Respect for diverse perspectives; and Professionalism and service excellence.
