A planned improvement project is expanding as is support from the Emporia City Commission.
During their regular meeting Wednesday morning, commissioners approved amending a resolution, originally passed in December, declaring the city’s intent to issue industrial revenue bonds totaling just over $3.5 million to support the construction of 12 duplexes through Capitol Holdings LLC. Wednesday’s amendment increases the IRB total to just over $4.6 million as Capitol Holdings is planning to construct four additional duplexes.
City Special Projects Coordinator Jim Witt reminds residents that this action does not tie the city to the project financially. That being said, Witt explains it’s a low risk for a high reward.
The original 16 planned duplexes will be located at 412 E. 12th, 416 E. 12th, 1128 Union, 1106 Mechanic, 1110 Mechanic, 1023 Merchant and 1025 Merchant. A construction timeline is currently pending.
In other business, commissioners approved a bid in the amount of $98,450 for resurfacing and repair work at the Jones Aquatic Center. The work is related to the maintenance issues that led to a delayed start and early ending to the pool’s season in 2022.
Work is tentatively scheduled to be complete by April weather permitting.
Commissioners also tabled the purchase of replacement features for the JAC splash pad in the amount of $22,540 to allow time to search for other options. Plans are to bring the item back before commissioners during their next regular meeting.
Additionally Wednesday, commissioners approved overriding a ruling from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to allow for a door widening at the historic former Plumb Place property to allow owner Chris Stanley to widen a door for ADA compliance.
During their regular study session commissioners debated the potential implementation of a new rental registration program. According to City Manager Trey Cocking the program would require all landlords to register their available units with the city for a regular fee.
Cocking tells KVOE News there are several benefits to the program, namely easier access to landlords.
The main item of debate for commissioners was the topic of the fee that would be paid through the program as well as the implementation of penalties for being out of compliance with city codes.
The original proposal was for $25 which could generate up to $125,000 to fund the program.
Commissioners instructed city staff to continue fine-tuning the program to be brought back for future consideration. In other business, commissioners reviewed an amendment to city code classifying sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Commissioners also reviewed the 2022 Land Bank report and 2023 street rehab recommended segments and add alternates.
Emporia City Commissioners will reconvene at 11 am on Wednesday, Feb. 1 inside of the Municipal Courtroom at White Auditorium.
