Will the coming changes in leadership for the Emporia Senior Center mean any changes in its relationship with local governing entities?
According to ESC, Lyon County and city leadership, the answer is no. ESC Board Chair and acting President Jan Loux stated in an interview Thursday that the only change she foresees is that of a change in personalities.
In a separate interview with KVOE, following the resignation of then ESC President and CEO Ian Boyd, Lyon County Commission Chairman Rollie Martin stated the county plans to continue its relationship with the senior center in the same capacity it has for the past several years.
The City of Emporia has historically been out of the picture when it comes to providing financial backing to the center and City Manager Trey Cocking says that likely will not change. ESC did seek funding from the city back in 2022, a request that was ultimately denied with concerns of double taxation being expressed as a part of that decision.
During an interview with KVOE News, Cocking stated city residents pay county taxes and it makes no sense to use city and county tax dollars to appropriate dollars to the same entity. Loux spoke to the city’s concerns of “double dipping” during her interview with KVOE News Thursday.
When asked about the difference between these decisions, Cocking would the center’s request in 2022 was seeking general fund dollars when all other non-profit and community partner allocations come from dedicated city funds.
Despite the past, Cocking noted the city is looking forward to the coming changes in leadership within the senior center, adding “The city actively wishes to work with individuals in that position.” Cocking’s comments somewhat echoed Martin’s on the matter as he also stated the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the senior center as the agency plays a vital role in helping provide for the needs of all seniors within the local area.
