The Emporia Rescue Mission’s plan to move into the Amend Girl Scout Center has cleared the first step in the zoning process.
The Emporia-Lyon County Metropolitan Area Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the move Tuesday through a conditional use permit for the property. Rescue Mission Director Lee Alderman says the Girl Scout Center at 1236 East 12th fits the Rescue Mission’s needs like no other building since a search for a new facility began 10 years ago.
John Waechter of 2163 Road F-5 spoke against the proposal.
City Zoning Specialist Joe Foster has worked with the Rescue Mission on a potential new home throughout the last decade.
With the recommendation, the next — and possible final — step in the process is approval by the Emporia City Commission. The earliest the matter could come before city commissioners is Feb. 3.
While the zoning process moves forward, the Rescue Mission continues fundraising to finish the $400,000 purchase of the building. The Rescue Mission is in the process of garnering donations to match a $50,000 Preston Family Trust grant by the end of the month. If that happens, Alderman says fundraising should be completed.
In other business, Planning Commission members recommended a minor plat request by Whittier Place II owners Gabriel and Dolph Woodman. They are considering two new lots for 2.4 acres near 1200 Whittier Place Lane. City commissioners could give final approval Feb. 3.
The board also recommended a request by Eric Gilger and Justin Mallon to rezone seven acres near Roads 180 and G from Agriculture to I-1 Light Industrial. The goal is to have the property available for an unspecified trucking business. Lyon County commissioners will have final say, perhaps as soon as next month.
