City commissioners consider visitor's center
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Preliminary plans to build a visitor’s center by the turnpike interchange were presented to the Emporia City Commission at Wednesday’s study session.
Plans to construct a visitor’s center were put together as a result of committee meetings regarding Goal 8 of the Building Futures campaign — to increase tourism to the Emporia area.
In addition to planning for entrance signs for other areas of Emporia, the Goal 8 committee has been looking at the possibility of entering into an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation to use land by the two recently-constructed roundabouts for a visitor’s center in an effort to draw travelers into Emporia. The land is immediately to the east of the Kansas Turnpike Authority building near the toll booths.
The center would include walking paths punctuated by the Prairie Passage stones that currently sit at the corner of the Lyon County Fairgrounds. Further construction could include the addition of restrooms and an informational kiosk.
Betty Senn and Jamie Sauder appeared before the commission to explain the preliminary design plans.
“I would look at this as a park or an information point so that when visitors are here in our city stopping for gas or for snacks or for whatever, they see a nice monument,” Senn said. “It’s an identifier for the city and it’s very welcoming for people who are coming into the community.”
Both Senn and Sauder have talked to the fair board about moving the stones off the fairgrounds. Senn said the fair board has agreed to moving the stones should a visitor’s center become a reality.
“One of the things we’ve learned throughout this process is that there’s a lot of factors,” Sauder said. “... Everybody has a lot of good ideas, and I think they’re all good ideas, but what we’re trying to find is some kind of consensus for what the best idea’s going to be.”
Sauder said part of the motivation for the center comes with the location of the land at the most prominent of Emporia’s entrances.
“It’s a very focal point as far as where people enter into the community or exit from the community,” he said.
The Goal 8 committee also is worried that if the land is not used, it will not be well-maintained by KDOT.
“Our fear is that it would be maintained at a fairly minimal level of standards,” Sauder said, “and this piece of land, which is a pretty big piece of land, could become somewhat blighted and more or less an eyesore rather than something that we hope could be rather attractive. ...”
The commissioners in general were receptive to the idea; major concerns expressed were project costs and responsibility for maintenance and staffing of the site.
“I think it’s a great concept and a great use of that land,” Mayor Jeff Longbine said, and asked about signage to funnel visitors coming on Highway 50 from the east. “I think by the time they see it, they’re going to be most of the way through the roundabout or up on top of the flyway with no opportunity to turn around to come in. ...”
City engineer Mike Novak said the question of signage would be included in the lease agreement with KDOT.
“That would be included with some expectation, and let them respond accordingly,” Novak said. “This is the first shot over the bow, so to speak, so if you think you want it, ask for it and let them say no. As far as the way to negotiate with KDOT, ask for everything you might think you’ll want and at least it’s on the table and they can respond accordingly.”
Longbine also mentioned that KDOT will not allow commercial activity on the site.
“At this visitor’s center ... we cannot sell Emporia goods or allow Emporia merchants to sell their goods out of it,” Longbine said.
“That’s correct,” city manager Matt Zimmerman said. “The upside to using KDOT’s land is that it doesn’t cost us anything other than maintenance. The downside is we’re not allowed by KDOT rules to have any retail establishments. ...”
Longbine then asked who would maintain the site; Zimmerman said city crews could do that job at existing levels.
The next step for this project is for the city commission to authorize the application for the lease agreement with KDOT.
Commissioners also discussed a revision of an ordinance that, if passed, will permit the outdoor sales and consumption of alcoholic beverages. The ordinance sets the parameters for bars and restaurants that want to add beer gardens to allow customers to congregate outside.
“What we’ve got to do is we’ve got to make sure this is a workable plan that does not circumvent the smoking ordinance,” Longbine said.
Changes made to the original draft of the ordinance include adjusting a requirement that 25 percent of the walls had to be open to 20 percent including a ceiling. This will allow bar owners to have covered or uncovered areas for customers to gather.
Another concern brought up was that owners who wish to take advantage of the ordinance will have to pay a $100 permit fee; commissioners said that amount might be excessive when added to the other fees bar owners already have to pay.
Zimmerman said the fee will cover the cost of additional inspections. Longbine questioned whether that’s necessary since licensed establishments are inspected regularly anyway, and having a beer garden inspected would not take that much extra time.
In other business, commissioners discussed
F engineering proposals for a project to extend the runway at the municipal airport.
F amendments to the comprehensive plan to incorporate Emporia Main Street’s Community Initiated Development project.
F 2010 health insurance program for employees of the city.
deluvly1 (anonymous) says...
Oh, my, is this the time for such an ambitious project? I keep thinking about the disappointment (embarrassment) that is the clock tower...it was so expensive, and supposed to be so grand, and we end up with a squat little "tower" and a clock face with unreadable numbers...I was all for that project, I swear I envisioned something like the spire on the Methodist church...something to set Emporia apart and it's hardly even noticeable.
June 24, 2009 at 4:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthinkin (anonymous) says...
I think I'm hearing voices - "If you build it, They will come...".... and the answer is B.S. Funny, my thoughts when I was reading the article immediately went to the clock tower, followed by the aquatic center, and then the court house.... Tight times are not the time to spend money for non-essentials, and to say that the area could be maintained by the City at current staff levels ... again the answer is B.S.... either the maintenance will suffer, or the public servants / slaves will just be asked to stretch thinner.... Matt said that it could be done at current level, so that leaves out hiring employees as part-time but work them just like full-time, only not pay any benefits, or even the same wage, but expect them to do the same work.... That's real fair!
June 24, 2009 at 5:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jcook66801 (anonymous) says...
What clock tower?
June 24, 2009 at 5:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
olddog (anonymous) says...
We already have Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Why do we need a new building when these services are already available???
June 24, 2009 at 5:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
olddog (anonymous) says...
Wouldn't a sign directing people to the Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau be good enough??
June 24, 2009 at 5:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
Welcome to Emporia look at our ..................
Then there's the ...............
Oh what about the ................
Maybe check out the ....................
Oh never mind
June 24, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chiefsfan (anonymous) says...
Ya, that's exactly what Emporia needs to be spending the money it doesn't have on. My family and I were just there over this past weekend visiting the parents and there were alot of things that needed worked on alot more than building this visitor's center. But on second thought, a visitor's center would be just the ticket, because while we were in town, there were sooooo many visitors that I can see would benefit from this. Give me a break!!!
June 24, 2009 at 7:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
Is this the same Sauder that brought us the smoking ban.....if so....count on my vote against it.
June 24, 2009 at 7:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
pizza (anonymous) says...
Just more Chamber BS. Can't they EVER do anything productive?
June 24, 2009 at 8:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
brightliner (anonymous) says...
Same tired people complaining when ever someone talks about promoting something new that might benefit our community. A Visitor's Center at the interchange could offer information to travelers who might stop and spend some time and or money if they knew what there was to see and do in our town.
"Build it and they will come" No, build it and promote your community in the best and most effective way possible. Lack of action is guaranteed to fail.
June 25, 2009 at 12:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JSauder (anonymous) says...
It is good that so many of you have opinions regarding the Visitors Information Center concept. The Building Futures Campaign is striving to do everything possible to make Emporia the best it can be. The only way this is possible is through dialogue and participation with the citizens of Emporia and Lyon County. I certainly would like to discuss your opinions and thoughts with anyone who agrees or disagrees the idea of a visitors information center or park at the proposed sight. As I said in the article, many people have had good ideas and we are working to form some sort of consensus as to what the best plan would be for this endevor and how to do it for the least amount of money possible. We have a lot of work left to do before this project becomes any sort of reality and I think I speak for the committee when I say we sure could use help. Feel free to email me at jamieasauder@hotmail.com with any questions or concerns regarding the project and I will be glad to discuss them with you.
Jamie Sauder
June 25, 2009 at 12:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
neighbor (anonymous) says...
Jamie, I have to admit that moving the stone work from the Fair Grounds makes me a bit suspicious of other potential intentions for that proposed change away from a desired corner in town. Also, I would like to offer that drawing interest to Emporia would be better accomplished if done long before drivers exit the KTA or enter the city via Hwy50. Speaking from personal experience, I rarely stop in towns not already on my planned agenda. I've yet to have stopped at a visitors center along the highways I've traveled that convinced me to stop and sightsee the area.
June 25, 2009 at 1:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
neighbor......I too am very interested in as to why they might want to move the Prarie Passage stonework. Seems like a lot of effort to me to accomplish something that might be better accomplished with a different structure at less cost.
The motivation couldn't possibly be because the stones now occuppy a corner of the coveted for development fairgrounds....and set right atop argueably the most prime piece of real estate left virtually undeveloped in this town.....now could it?
June 25, 2009 at 6:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
briteliner:
You stated, "Same tired people complaining ".
I say; Same people complaining, tired of tax burdens.
This will cost more money for the taxpayer, something we don' need at this time. When is the last time anyone here stopped at a visitors center when they were on the road?
Unless this if funded by private donations, including money for upkeep, NO NO NO NO NO NO.
June 25, 2009 at 6:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I'm with the rest of those who disagree with this project. The reasons given are excellent ones especially when it comes to using public money. Too many other things need to be done. In addition, add me to the list of those who are suspicious about reasons for moving "Stonehenge."
"The Goal 8 committee also is worried that if the land is not used, it will not be well-maintained by KDOT." If the committee is that worried about appearance, It seems to me that hiring a local groundskeeping company to regularly keep this property cleaned up would be a lot less expensive than moving statuary and erecting buildings. Besides, you'll be supporting the local economy in doing so.
In all my travels, I've never stopped at a visitors center, not even in states that regularly offer top-knotch tourist attractions.
"Same tired people complaining" indeed. Somebody has to keep an eye on the purse strings. That's why we're so tired, lady!
June 25, 2009 at 7:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
If Emporia want's to promote itself think
WALL SOUTH DAKOTA. Heck bus lines stop there just for shopping and r.r. breaks. Instead of wall drug store Emporia could promote Graves drug store in Downtown.
Just a few hundred billboards on the turnpike and we are set!
June 25, 2009 at 7:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kansasdman (anonymous) says...
I find it interesting that the belief is that there would be a significant extra cost associated with inspecting a beer garden at an existing establishment that is already being inspected enough to charge $100 fee and the maintenance at the visitor’s center would be able to be accomplished at “existing’ levels. I think it would be reasonable to believe that if you could do one at existing levels you would be able to accomplish the other. Be realistic and admit that there would be a cost associated with each and not just the one you want to slide under the radar.
June 25, 2009 at 7:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Was there not a poll recently in the gazette about where to make cuts? Come on Jaime, this is not the time for project; you want to make this project happen? Figure out how to attract some new industry to this town to replace the plethora of businesses that have left or downsized in the last few years. When are the people running the city going to figure out that the only way to get things to pick up around here is to attract new industry? Jobs=tax revenue, more tax revenue= more money for projects of this nature. I would love to see some figures on the revenue generated by these "visitors" that would necessitate this venture.
June 25, 2009 at 8:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
kansasdman.....good point!
In the first instance...maintainence cost....they want us to believe something they want to do for some still somewhat suspect reasons can be done without spending any taxpayer money.....
In the second instances however the city is just zeroing in on the one thing they are always looking for.....a way to extract a little more money from the taxpayer.
But see....we are not suppossed to see or notice any of this.
June 25, 2009 at 8:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
goodoleboy
You beat me to it. EMPORIA IS AN INDUSTRIAL TOWN.
June 25, 2009 at 8:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
brightliner (anonymous) says...
Nice try Jamie. Guessing you thought you might get some rational feedback. Maybe knowing the fears and suspisions of these "watchers of the city's purse strings" will be beneficial.
Doubt your committee considered that talk of relocating Stonehenge would fire up the "Save the Fairgrounds" crew?
You are learning the first hand that change is always difficult. Hang in there, all communities need leaders who are willing to take a position.
June 25, 2009 at 9:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
A good position would be to bring in jobs that pay a living wage to the proletariat. We can not all survive on the service industry.
June 25, 2009 at 10:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Joe_Strummer (anonymous) says...
Fairgrounds? Looks to me like a bunch of empty rundown buildings.
Sell that land to the first retailer who wants to build there and call it good.
June 25, 2009 at 10:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
gg (anonymous) says...
Fix (tear down and start over) the "NEW & IMPROVED" turnpike interchange! We recently had a family reunion in Emporia and the topic of the new interchange was the center of a lot of conversation with our out of town family members. They hated it and wondered why they would spend so much money to build such a confusing monstrosity.
June 25, 2009 at 11:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Now there's an income producer and tourist attraction -- a strip mall at the fairgrounds!!!
Now play me a song for that one, seriously. I know you got one.
June 25, 2009 at 11:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
yev_kassem (anonymous) says...
I think the visitor center is a good idea if it is done with class and with as little cost as possible. It didn't appear to me from the article that the city would have to pay very much to have it and could be a nice focal point for visitors coming to Emporia.
They would install sidewalks, restrooms and an information kiosk, and then move the statues from the middle of town. The city would maintain the area which I would assume would be cleaning the bathrooms and sidewalks and mowing the grass. Unless I am missing something I don't see why the city wouldn't be able to handle this minute increase in work load with current staff.
I think the point of the project is to improve our city's image for visitor's. It is based more on a first impression experience than bringing in a lot of new business in my opinion. All in all though I would support the project.
June 25, 2009 at 11:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
This one goes out to create.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdD0j6...
June 25, 2009 at 11:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
This one goes out to my fellow proletarians.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNCFcD...
June 25, 2009 at 11:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
giggles (anonymous) says...
I cannot support any other projects at this time. Unless you start bringing more jobs into the town, the only thing a visitor is going to see about Emporia is empty buildings and dejected people.
It is easy for someone with some disposable income to not think of this as a big expense. As I see it, those of us who have had hours cut, or had our job cut altogether, this is just another thorn in the side. I think that what I am saying is we need jobs first and above all else.
A city is only going to look as good as it's citizens. If we cannot be a proud community of hard working people with a good solid wage to keep us upright, then we will reflect as much.
I am not trying to be negative, but that is hard to do when we are seriously struggling.
When we can prosper as a community then we can welcome people properly, but we have a lot to accomplish before that can happen.
June 25, 2009 at 11:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
yev_kassem (anonymous) says...
giggles--
It is a classic chicken and egg arguement.
Emporia has to present an image so that businesses will choose our community over others of similar sizes. I am not saying that building a visitor center is going to sway any a particular business, but when they do come to Emporia to explore the opportunity, a good first impression could go a long way.
Emporia needs to pull together as a community and support its fellow citizens. The economy, smoking ban and the Lowes project have really made for some heated debates and hurt feelings. We need to get past all of that and move forward and stop dwelling on the past. What can Emporia do starting today that will improve our city?
June 25, 2009 at 12:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Thanks, seriously. Good choice. Enjoyed it.
Starting today, Emporia can get to work attracting industry instead of finding ways to spend more money trying to attract tourists.
I agree with giggles. And yes, we have many empty buildings right now, and some have begun to look derelect. On the other hand, the building project on the corner of 8th and Commercial is coming right along. Good work, Cory Haag!!!
June 25, 2009 at 12:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
My opposition to this project is based primarily on my belief that what this town needs is jobs.....not more kiosk to attract tourist that are never going to come here in droves anyway. I....along with others here have never stopped in a town because of a tourist center.....in fact...have never stopped at a tourist center at all.
I am also highly suspect of the plan to move the stones.....and will be real interested in where the money trial there leads us. I for one would rather see the beat up old fairgrounds there than another strip mall that would be half empty in a couple of years anyway if we don't get some jobs around here.
So I am oppossed to this plan for now because from what I see its a bad plan.
I'm oppossed to Sauder because of the smoking ban.
June 25, 2009 at 12:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
We don't need to present any image, image is irrelevant. When industry looks at coming to a city they look at costs. Cheap land and tax breaks is what will get new business here, image is masturbation. The bottom line is always the dollar, instead of finding new projects which in turn raise our taxes higher, we should be looking for ways to shed those burdens in order to be better able to offer incentives for businesses to come here.
June 25, 2009 at 12:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
I have heard that no one will be working inside the visitors center!!!!! No where has any one said anything about it being maned. What the hell would it be good for if there is not a person helping with information.It sounds like another very DUMB idea coming from the city and travel and tourism
June 25, 2009 at 12:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Dido1969 (anonymous) says...
Yes, we already have Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau…for whatever that’s worth. Unless travelers plan to visit during business hours during the week, they don’t amount for much. We were talking, does anyone else remember that the original sales pitch for the Chamber offices was that they were going to feature PUBLIC restrooms…where are those restrooms and when are they open?
Speaking of which the front doors of our museum have been locked for weeks but there’s no sign advising visitors that they MIGHT gain entrance by ringing the bell at the back door. Recently I was reading on the benches outside the library and counted at least 10 people trying to go to the library…without luck…that’s when I investigated and found the front doors locked…but the place was “open” for those adventurous enough to go ‘round back. As I said, there were no signs posted on the front doors.
Emporia would be much more “visitor friendly” if we could simply enforce our existing anti-littering laws so that our streets don’t look like dump sites, and enforce the excessive noise law so that visitors downtown can hear themselves think when a rolling boom-box comes speeding down the street.
As to the new idea, no thank you very much.
June 25, 2009 at 2:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
giggles (anonymous) says...
Yev_kassem,
We cannot present an image we cannot afford, and what good is it if it is only a facade? Goodoleboy is right, it is irrelevant when cost is the root.
If you are going to present a piece of Emporia, shouldn't that be what it represents for the rest of the city? You can't put up a small pretty garden when the rest of the city looks like a dump.
Make the city worthy of representation, then we can represent it.
June 25, 2009 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
giggles (anonymous) says...
Well put Dido1969.
I for one would like to see the stores downtown open longer. I work from 8-5 so when they close at 5 or 6, I'm out of luck. If I need something I have to go to Wal-Mart or wait for the opportunity to get downtown durning the hours they are open. I know they are open one day for a few extra hours, but I can never remember what day that is, and it is ususally never the day I am ready to buy something.
June 25, 2009 at 2:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
yev_kassem (anonymous) says...
biscuitboy--
Just an FYI....Jamie is the son of Steve Sauder. Boobie Sauder is Steve's wife and is not Jamie's mother. The smoking ban has absolutely nothing to do wth this debate and I would really hope that you wouldn't prejudge Jamie for something that his Dad's wife promoted.
Jamie is a good person and is good for Emporia. Both of Jamie's parents, love them or hate them, have done a lot for Emporia.
June 25, 2009 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MisterO (anonymous) says...
A visitors' center?
Can someone tell me what attractions are here that would entice anyone from Topeka, Wichita, or Kansas City to come visit?
Some old guy's house? A swimming pool with a couple water slides? Wal Mart?
People traveling the Turnpike are not out for a Sunday drive looking for visitor attractions. They are destination drivers. They are either going to Wichta or beyond, Topeka, Kansas City, or Denver.
Do you honestly think anyone traveling the Turnpike are thinking to themselves, "Gee...I'm on my way to Wichita, but think I'll get off at the Emporia exit so I can shop at WalMart."
"Visitors" to Emporia are here visiting relatives. Or their children at ESU. Or possibly a ball game (but only because their kids are playing).
If you are going to build a visitors' center, don't you think you should at least have something compelling enough to draw visitors in the first place?
A visitor's center? No. Please continue working on attracting industry so we can build our tax base back up so people can have some disposable income so we can then think about building attractions that will actually draw visitors. THEN you can build your visitors' center.
June 25, 2009 at 2:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oh4theluvof (anonymous) says...
I don't think the idea of a visitor center is horrible, but I do believe there are about a hundred things in line first. In all practicality, I think the city sidewalks(where there are any) and streets are deplorable. When I go to other towns, I notice that there are usually sidewalks on both sides that are smooth. I have been through the baby stage with two kids now, and the sidewalks in this town are mostly unfit for strollers, small trikes and scooters and the elderly. I understand that this is a larger money issue, but I don't even see small steps being taken for this...would one block at a time, starting in the worst spots, as money allows be so bad? Most of us have to make our improvements this way. There is also the issue of the UGLY trees because the city won't pay to have them trimmed nicely away from the power lines, they just pay to whack off any offending branches and leave it. I am all for aesthetics, but they have to run deeper than one highway exit---they have to run consistently through the neighborhoods---even those south of 6th and/or east of Commercial.
I am trying to be careful not to get off on a different tangent, but biking/walking trails that are more centrally located would be an attractive item too---just do NOT put them west of Prairie St. where they are less accessible to 3/4 of the town.
I would think that a town that can provide upper management from it's university and labor from it's plentiful lower-middle class population would be plenty to attract industry to a town that is half-way between the coasts (equal shipping distance/time/costs). If that hasn't done it, I don't believe anything else will, so I would like the reasons for doing things to be about making the local environment affordably, pleasantly, comfortable for those of us who actually live here.
June 25, 2009 at 3:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
This will be long winded,bare with me.
There is one reason and only one reason we should NOT do this at THIS TIME. That is cost. Until it can be done with private dollars,(including the cost of maintenance), our tax dollars need to spent on necessaties only.
Remember the main street project, (which i agree with), was supposed to beautify downtown, and I think it has. After completion it was supposed to be maintained by city crews.
Guess what happens to drip irrigation systems when you don't maintain them. Well no-one seemed to have the staff to maintain them so those little bump-outs have gone to hell.
Now Casey Woods from mainstreet has started a drive to adopt those gardens out to various groups, families and businesses to maintain for a year at a time.
GREAT IDEA CASEY!
For those that have adopted a spot and your drip tubing is cracked or split, there are 1/2 inch hose repair kits available at Waters true value@ $3.59 ea. Don't wait for the city to do it there is no staff available.
There is a proud Emporian named Orine Schumann who has done this for years on her own,(the flowers in front of Quick Trip by the clock tower and the flower beds in the 600 block of Mechanic st.) Thank you Schumanns!
The reason I am against this is not because the spokepersons name is Sauder, I am sure Jamie is a fine young man. It is not because I think it is a completly lame idea. I just think it is time our city commissioners learn to use the NO word when it comes to spending our tax dollars.
Especially now.
Steve
June 25, 2009 at 3:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
giggles (anonymous) says...
Truly well put Steve.
Turn off the faucet of money, the well ran dry already.
It is time for private money to fund these special projects. Tax dollars are for necessity only.
I can see it now, some of you thinking this is a necessity, but it is not. You cannot run the town by the energy of a kiosk.
Really, if people want to improve the city image, take a little of your time and some private money and find a small project that does good and makes you happy. The feel better or pretty town money should be private dollars.
Taxes aren't for beauty pageants.
June 25, 2009 at 3:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
admireed (anonymous) says...
We already have a "bed tax". Some of these funds could be directed toward this project. THAT IS WHAT THEY ARE FOR! Please contact Jamie and give him your help, time and ideas.
June 25, 2009 at 3:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oh4theluvof (anonymous) says...
Steve,
Orinne doesn't just do it herself, she PAYS from her own pocket for people to do it too, now that she is older and can't do as much. She is the only person I give any credit too for those areas looking so nice. She receives NO income from that and only small recognition. Thank you for remembering all her work here.
June 25, 2009 at 4:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
oh4theluvof;
I know, She had planted the flowerbed on Mechanic before the main st project. If Casey Woods could get a few more groups or families to just volunteer their time in keeping the beds weeded and trimmed it would go a long way to help clean up the downtown area. That's what I like about the adoption Idea, private "sweat equity" at very little cost, by people truly wanting to help our image. There are still a few beds available for adoption if anyone on here wants to help out.
June 25, 2009 at 4:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
yev_kassem
Thank you for the info on Jamie Sauder......and I sincerly apologize for the error.
My opposition to the plan however stands as stated.
Thanks again for setting me straight...I frequently need it.
June 25, 2009 at 4:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justa_thought (anonymous) says...
after reading the feedback it is clear to see why Emporia is a second rate town. with rear (as opposed to forward) thinking like this you ensure that the community will never be a draw to outsiders. that's okay though. let them spend their money (and their sales tax) elsewhere so that some other community can benefit. Since there is no pride, draw, or willingness by the community for self investment, few others (like new businesses and professionals) will be encouraged to do so either. As the population declines, leaving an infrastructure that must be maintained by fewer people, you'll really begin to know what it is like to pay more in taxes.
Why not consider investing and trying to build up the community with ammenities that will encourage other businesses and individuals to move here (and help share the tax burden of a nicer community)?
June 25, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
giggles (anonymous) says...
Justa_thought,
How are you going to attract big business with a kiosk?
I for one think that you are thinking backwards. There has to be an attraction here to attact tourists and visitors. There have to be people here who have good jobs to have attractions that they will spend money on.
June 25, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
I have no problem with working to invest and build up the community with projects that would bring real help to the citizenry. But I honestly don't see anything here but another silly little fluff piece that is not going to accomplish anything.
Call me paranoid if you want....but I fear the biggest motivation behind this project is getting those stones moved from where they are. And until I learn why that is so important I will continue to oppose this project. Once I learn what the plans are for that corner where the stones now stand....and who plans to profit from moving the stones......then I might...or might not.....lower my opposition down to just thinking its a little silly but harmless.
June 25, 2009 at 4:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oh4theluvof (anonymous) says...
Wel, justa_thought,
Maybe the next time you are house hunting, you should just look for a house with a nice front door and not worry about how thing look or work on the inside---just plan on building nicer stuff around that junky mess.
Steve,
Forgive me if I just bear with you and decline your offer to bare with you, tee, hee, hee. Just couldn't let that one pass ;)
June 25, 2009 at 4:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
threecs (anonymous) says...
I recently drove the turnpike from Topeka to Emporia for the first time in several years, and I began to understand the logic. From that viewpoint, everything looked beautiful and enticing. The new school, new houses, new aquatic park, soccer field, turnpike gate. Emporia looked like the perfect place to raise a family. I suppose many cities are doing the same thing, but I have to say I was shocked by the image from that viewpoint, as compared to my regular (25 year) viewpoints from north 99, west 50, east 50, etc. It was almost like there was a new Emporia being built, which is quite in contrast to the Emporia I am familiar with. Its no wonder the residents feel so divided.
June 25, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
truelovecharlie (anonymous) says...
Is this any relation to Steve and Paula Sauder? Maybe the Sauders could just buy Emporia. What is the point of luring people off the turnpike? Once they get off the turnpike they will see many empty buildings. The first real business they would see would be the car dealerships. Continue traveling east from there on 6th and it looks like a very impoverished town all the way through on 6th Avenue.
June 25, 2009 at 6:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
justa_thought:
Do you live in Emporia? If so why do you settle for a second class city? I take offense to that statement.
Let's talk.
June 25, 2009 at 7:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
oh4theluvof:
With weather like this we don't need to BEAR anything, way to hot.
Bare is a much better idea!
June 25, 2009 at 7:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
justa_thought
What is it about Emporia that causes you to classify it as a second rate City ?
Is it the fact that a certain few individuals see fit to run the lives of the Citys citizens with bans on its citizens individuals rights, freedoms and liberties and dictate to businesses, those already established, how those businesses may run their business and the way any and all future businesses or industries may run their business and all future businesses or industries may see this as a blatant infringement on their rights, freedoms and liberties to run their business that best benefits them, their board of directors, stockholders and employees ?
Any sort of ban or dictate, whether it be sponsered by an individual, group of individuals or City Government, that dictates how a business must operate or may interfere with that businesses ability to operate in a manner that is beneficial to both the business, its employees or the community in which it locates, is neither a draw nor appealing to any business or industry !
June 25, 2009 at 7:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
open_eyes (anonymous) says...
Folks, you're looking at justa_thoughts comment about Emporia being a second-rate city all wrong.
It's actually a compliment.
Coming from a third-rate person, isnt a second-rate city is a step up?
Forgive the slam, but there are nicer and/or more respectable ways to criticize something, just because YOUR opinion of it isn't all that hot........
June 25, 2009 at 7:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
justa_thought;
One of the first things a new business looks at when looking for a new town is the cost of living and quality of life for it's employees. Availability of good workers and work space, hopefully connected to tax incentives to bring them in. Emporia has provided this to a lot of businesess over the years without a visitor center. Read the 2 letters of thanks from out of town teachers in town last week about the friendly people of Emporia.
THAT'S WHAT SELLS EMPORIA, IT'S PEOPLE!
And because we voice our concerns over the costs of our local govts. does Not mean we are backward thinking, it means we are thinking! Emporia and Lyon County has one the highest tax rates in the state. What business would locate here if they and their employess could not afford living here?
Your excuse that if we would just spend a little more money things will get all better is getting old. We have heard it all to often from all branches of government and the private sector that push for their pet projects. I am not against this visitor center if it is funded privately. But my taxes are too much now. Find private funding , Streets, water , trash, police and fire protection are the jobs that should be funded by tax dollars, promotion and information are not.
June 25, 2009 at 8:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rlsapp82 (anonymous) says...
This is kind of a different topic but what happened to the shopping center that was supposed to be built out there?
June 25, 2009 at 11:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
rlsapp82
I guess we have to have a visitors center before we can have a shopping center, etc.. I personally don't think Emporia needs a visitors center or another shopping center or shopping mall.
Also with the uncertain economy the US and the WORLD is experiencing right now, I don't think there are many businesses or corporations looking to expand or start something new right. I think most are just looking to survive, like the rest of us ! By the way if the City keeps spending and taxing none of us may be able to survive much longer !
It would seem that the City ( Commissioners) would rather build a visitors center instead of repair the infrastructure of the City .
I mean what kind of impression would the terrible streets, high taxes, etc. make on prospective businesses or industries who may be looking to expand or build something new !
June 25, 2009 at 11:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
threecs........Its not just that it looks like there are two emporia's.......there are two emporia's. Northwest Emporia where everything is including pedestrian bridges to nowhere....and water parks built smakey dab in the middle of the vast majority of private swimming pools here. This is also where you find the vast majority of all other businesses except for payday loans and bars that are about to close thanks to the smoking ban.
South of the tracks and east of East street you are damned luckey to find a bite to eat or a tank of gas. In this Euphoria...even new playground equipment at Peter Pan Park had to be purchased with private monies and build with donated labor. Their are no jobs in this part of town and only four streets out most of the time thanks to BNSF.
Then people wonder why there is hostility and distrust in our fair berg.
June 26, 2009 at 5:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Giggles has some good thinking going on: "Really, if people want to improve the city image, take a little of your time and some private money and find a small project that does good and makes you happy."
I am going to do just that. Don't know what it is yet, but I like that idea so much I'm going to find something small I can afford to do for the city I have adopted as home for the past 30 years.
While I'm at it, I'm calling the tree guy today. Some of my trees need trimming. Expensive yes, but by golly, some of these neighborhoods are looking so shabby because tree canopies need to be raised.
Oh yeah, dear City of Emporia. Quit just lopping off branches near the wires and start doing some real maintenance on our trees around town. That would improve our appearance considerably.
Listen justathought, most of the posters on here who are against the idea of a visitors kiosk have provided quite reasonable thinking about their disagreeement. It sounds like you haven't really read the reasoning at all, and instead refuse to understand our points. Calling us a second rate town was uncalled for. You know, our sewers and street drains need repair and updating so that our streets don't flood everytime we get an inch of rain. During the winter, many of our mains freeze because they need to be updated. That's why so many of us are against doing something that would spend money better used for more pressing needs. Try to get that, would ya?
June 26, 2009 at 7:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
lol YY4U, right on!
June 26, 2009 at 10:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
YY4U......Hear...Hear....on the giant beer can idea. I can remember people actually saying.....Oh yea....Emporia....that's the town with the giant beer can. But of course people stopping to stare in awe at the can would no longer be able to light up hence the smoking ban.
June 26, 2009 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
I heard the smoking area for the visitor's center will be in the middle of the highway. Welcome to Emporia.
June 26, 2009 at 11:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
.......Samuel Adams.....could there be any other?
June 26, 2009 at 11:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zYzqr...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAM_Dz...
June 26, 2009 at 11:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
biscuitboy (anonymous) says...
I can't remember how it was spelled but I swear its true......when I was a kid there was a beer my dad and his friends would drink on occassion the was called greasy (followed by a man's name that rhymes with hick). Now that name painted on the side of a phallic shaped beer can would attract a lot of attention to old Euphoria.
June 26, 2009 at 12:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
create,
I am not jumping on you or anything, but the tree trimming around the power lines is done or was being done by Wright Tree Service, hired by the power company to do the trimming. And it would seem that there is no set rule to their trimming. Just cut the whole top out of the tree and thats it . As far as I know the City does not trim trees, per say. Just a little FYI.
June 26, 2009 at 12:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
How about " BILLY BEER " ! Sorry, people I had a little mental lapse.
June 26, 2009 at 12:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Thanks, methusla. Then I guess the city needs to make some requests with regard to tree trimming by Wright's. I suppose it might cost a bit more because of extra time involved, but some of these trees look awful after they've been topped and chopped. Thanks again, Methusla.
Sam Adams gets my vote. Great lager!
June 26, 2009 at 12:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
giggles (anonymous) says...
I really don't see why the town doesn't truly get together and take a little bit of private money and one weekend every 6 months and work on a project, private or public. I know the college does this once a year and find elderly people with home projects that they need done, like painting and small house repairs.
I think we need a larger scale project. Perhaps as incentive, start teams, and those who do the most or best job or something of the like they could win prizes. Perhaps some businesses around town would like to sponsor that? College students do a wonderful service, but as I've said before they leave. Why don't we help one another and help ourselves at the same time?
If we became a city of people who show that we do care, we could gain national attention, perhaps tell a few news stations. From there, big business could see what our city is, which I would hope, caring, helpful people willing to work to acheive goals. Then if we could provide a good incentive, big business might come our way...
Big dreams.
June 26, 2009 at 2:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
I'll have a go at dissecting this post:
"after reading the feedback it is clear to see why Emporia is a second rate town. with rear (as opposed to forward) thinking like this you ensure that the community will never be a draw to outsiders."
Lol you have to have something to sell to draw people, what do we have? Shrinking industry, high taxes, SOUNDS GREAT!
"that's okay though. let them spend their money (and their sales tax) elsewhere so that some other community can benefit. Since there is no pride, draw, or willingness by the community for self investment, few others (like new businesses and professionals) will be encouraged to do so either."
Again we are not a tourist trap, all we have is the Flint Hills, which you can see pretty darn good from the turnpike. This is an agricultural community. We are producers, not services. You see a Sea World around here?
"As the population declines, leaving an infrastructure that must be maintained by fewer people, you'll really begin to know what it is like to pay more in taxes."
NEWSFLASH, this has already happened, and no amount of kiosks or visitors centers is going to change that. Attracting new industry is the only cure, not seasonal tourists driving by.
"Why not consider investing and trying to build up the community with ammenities that will encourage other businesses and individuals to move here (and help share the tax burden of a nicer community)?"
Great idea! Once we get back to the point where we actually have something to advertise we should get right on it, again what the heck are we going to sell people that are not college students now? Lets hear it. Rear thinking, ha, sounds more like your thinking out your rear!
June 26, 2009 at 3:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
glarson (anonymous) says...
Moved to a forum:
http://www.emporiagazette.com/forums/...
June 26, 2009 at 7:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )