Emporia city commissioners overheard a request of support for an emerging countywide council during their study session Wednesday.
Representatives seeking to formulate a new food policy council presented information in hopes of persuading commissioners to adopt a city ordinance stating their support. The council would be a self-governing entity that would work in conjunction with both the city and county in addressing local issues such as food insecurity in children, obesity and food deserts.
The council, which would be comprised of 15-18 individuals, would advise both governing bodies on ways to help improve the availability of healthy locally grown food options amongst other items.
Teresa Briggs with Healthier Lyon County spearheaded the presentation. She says reaching out to commissioners has nothing to do with monetary assistance, as that area is already covered thanks to a partnership with another organization.
She adds, while having the support and cooperation of both the county and city commissions would lend major assistance to the council, it will have no effect on whether the council comes to be.
Commissioner Jon Geitz says he likes the idea of having a group dedicated to helping improve the health of area residents.
The next step in the process will be for the city to further discuss and eventually decide whether or not to approve the adoption of an ordinance. Following that, both the city and county may begin the conversation on adopting a joint resolution.
In other business Commissioners also discussed rates for the Emporia Municipal Golf Course as well as changes to the proposed ordinance regarding alcohol sales in White Auditorium. The commission also discussed the proposed 2019 legislative policy.
The Commission’s next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. in the Municipal Courtroom inside White Auditorium.
