Following nearly six months of renovation, the Emporia Municipal Courtroom opened Wednesday as the City Commission held its first action meeting of September.
Markowitz Construction contracted for the $262,000 project which began in March. Assistant City Manager Lane Massey says overall he’s impressed by the work.
Massey says there were a few minor hiccups, such as piping issues in the floors and the need to raise the ceiling in the courtroom. Overall he expects the project to be close to what was budgeted.
At Wednesday’s meeting, commissioners approved an ordinance and rezone request for property at 302 South Congress. It also included a minor plat request. City consultant Jim Witt says the property will be utilized for the city’s infill housing program.
The site was once the home of Emporia’s city swimming pool. Three infill housing projects have already been completed and this will give the city up to about five additional potential sites.
Also approved Wednesday:
*An ordinance and authorization for bonds for the purchase of a new ambulance in 2019. The bonds will not exceed $270,000.
*An ordinance and request for the 2018 Radius/DEBA Oktoberfest event.
*Appointed Matt Lowery to the Community Housing Board.
*Adopted the 46th edition of the Standard Traffic Ordinances for Kansas Cities.
Photos of the renovated courtroom by Brandon Peoples/KVOE News
Photos showing the courtroom prior to renovations
