Future expansion and funding for potential projects highlighted discussions during the Emporia City Commission’s study session Wednesday morning.
After Commissioner’s approved the acquisition of two plots of land last week for a “runway safety zone” on the north end of the Emporia Municipal Airport, the possibility of an expansion project on the south end garnered much attention. The proposed expansion project would see the runway increase by 501 feet, which among other reasons, would allow for safer takeoffs for jets which account for the majority of traffic through the airport.
Public Works Director Frank Abart says if approved, this would be a lengthy project as work will have to be done on the Emporia Golf Course to accommodate the expansion.
The estimated project cost for the golf course project would be just over $2 million which the city would be solely responsible for. The total expansion project would cost near $3 million and that cost would be split between the City and the Federal Aviation Administration.
No decision was made on the matter as Abart plans to collect more information to present to Commissioners at a later time. Commissioner Rob Gilligan says when it comes to a decision, there are several factors which may impact what direction the city decides to take.
Also during the meeting, Abart proposed a change in acquiring funding for city improvement projects. Traditioanlly the city has gained funds for improvements through city bonding procedures which carries an interest rate between 3.5 to 4 percent. The proposed change would see the city go through State bonding which carries a lower interest rate between 2.5 to 3 percent.
Gilligan says it is a huge opportunity.
The next step in the process will be finalizing a loan request which will entail the loan ammounts, payment plan and interest rates. Abart hopes to have the finalized plan ready before the end of December.
Commissioners also had an overview of the city snow removal plan which has been in place since 1980. The overview was simply meant as a refresher on the policies in place and no changes were made.
Representatives of Emporia State University also presented a request to develop nose in parking on the westside of Highland Street for the university as part of the construction of Schallenkamp Hall. Commissioners also discussed the sale of Walnut Park at 814 Walnut Street, grade crossings with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, the CDGB Policy ad the future alcohol policy at William Allen White Auditorium.
The Commission’s next meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 19 at 7:00 pm. This was moved from the original date of Nov. 21st to accommodate travel plans for Thanksgiving.
