In response to a comment regarding perceived “tension” between the city of Emporia and Emporia Recreation Commission, City Manager Trey Cocking points to a slew of major changes in recent years as the likely cause.
During the August meeting of the Emporia Recreation Commission, then-commissioner Dave Harding made the comment that he felt communication between the two entities had significantly lessened in recent years. Harding would go on to point to the city’s plans to construct a new skate park at Whittier Park as an example.
He added the construction would potentially mean the removal of a softball field on which the ERC holds several programs and games. During the monthly Q&A With Trey Monday morning, KVOE asked Cocking his feelings on the matter.
Cocking stated he understands the feelings but believes the “lack of communication” noted by Harding is more likely due to several changes in personnel over the past few years.
Cocking’s comments came hours before the ERC approved a formal recommendation to place a half-cent to one-cent sales tax question on a future election ballot. The tax increase, if approved, would be used as the main funding source for the construction of a new rec center in the future.
The matter will now go before the Emporia City Commission for consideration and review during their regular study session on Wednesday morning.
