HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved an agreement with Siemens for making modifications to the railroad spur that leads into its facility during Tuesday’s agenda session.

The wind turbine maker wants to install a derailleur on the lead track that would prevent accidental intrusion of rail cars onto its side track. The company actually uses both the main spur and its siding for staging cars. The agreement also makes sure the city has access to the main spur line if another company were to locate in the industrial park.

The agreement is needed to clear the city of any responsibility if an accident occurs. Also Tuesday, the council approved a bid from APAC-Kansas for a major storm sewer project along Maple, between 10th and 12th Avenues. Total cost of the project is $689,320.

And after much discussion, the council agreed on a request from Hutchinson USD 308 to waive fees for use of the Sports Arena. The city recently implemented the fees as a way to recoup some of the costs associated with running the arena during major events. The school district wants those fees waived for the spring graduation ceremonies.

The council agreed to those same terms for Buhler USD 313.