Potential land acquisition for future development garnered an abundance of attention during the Emporia City Commission’s study session Wednesday morning.
Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas President Kent Heerman discussed the potential acquisition of property at 1503 E. Logan Ave adjacent to Industrial Park III. The property in question is 88 acres with the purchase costing $1 million.
A recommendation for the purchase was approved by a majority vote by the Emporia Enterprises Board during a recent meeting according to Heerman. The recommendation did not find favor with at least two commissioners Becky Smith and Susan Brinkman.
Smith feels the city has no need for the purchase of additional land as there is already so much in its possession that has seen tremendous growth over the past several years.
Heerman countered that thought by stating if the city wants to see future growth potential partners will need land to utilize. He says the city’s track record with industrial development speaks for itself.
The city currently has $1.1 million available to make the purchase, however, Brinkman stated the purchase would essentially use up all of that available funding which she feels could be put towards other ventures such as property tax relief, road repairs and addressing critical housing needs.
Commissioners are set to vote on the matter during their upcoming action session next week.
Another item that will be up for consideration at that time will be a Conditional Use Permit for the Emporia Rescue Mission’s use of the former Amend Girl Scouts Center at 1236 E. 12th Ave. Commissioners and city staff seemed to be heavily in favor of the item with City Zoning Specialist Joe Foster going stating the Rescue Mission has a “proven history of service to the community.”
Rescue Mission Director Lee Alderman says it meant a lot to hear that people see the difference they are trying to make in the community.
The Emporia City Commission is scheduled to reconvene for an action session next Wednesday at 7 pm inside the Municipal Courtroom at White Auditorium.
