During the most recent Emporia City Commission meeting Wednesday, Commissioner Tyler Curtis made his stance on a pair of “hot button” issues within the community crystal clear.
The issues in question were the ongoing saga between Newman Regional Health and Stormont Vail and the recent Vision First economic development study which is set for additional conversations later this month. On the topic of Newman and Stormont, Curtis covered a lot of ground including the zoning text amendments proposed well over a year ago by Newman in response to Stormont’s plans to construct a new medical facility in Emporia.
Of the amendments, Curtis stated “I am not opposed to a zoning text change that creates a policy of how we manage healthcare in our area. But I am opposed to that change in light of a scenario where an entity is actively looking to expand its services in our community.”
While speaking with KVOE News Wednesday, Curtis clarified he had no issue with the proposal, however, he did not care for the timing of it.
Additionally, Curtis commented on the anticipated annexation request from Stormont Vail which has yet to come forward. Curtis stated Wednesday, “We do not have a formal request to consider the annexation of property. If we receive that request then we and I will study and evaluate those merits and until then I will simply say that maximizing the real estate available where our current hospital is located is my preference.”
As for the Vision First study Curtis, who was appointed to the commission well after the study process had been approved, says it will be important for all entities involved to consider the information and opportunities enclosed within it as just that, an opportunity.
Curtis’ comments come as the commissioners are planning additional discussions on the Vision First Study during their next regular meetings on October 16.
