The Emporia City Commission Wednesday stood by a project to build four entrance monuments at a cost of $101,165 but changed the funding source.
The project will be restarted today with one difference. Instead of using sales tax money, the city will pay for the monuments mainly with a tax guests at Emporia motels pay. Money from a park improvement account will also be used.
Steve Corbin, owner of Town Royal, suggested to Mayor Jim Kessler that Conventions and Visitors Bureau money be used for the project.
“Because the entrance features have more to do with welcoming visitors to town, why not take the money out of the Convention and Visitors Bureau Fund,” Kessler said.
The other commissioners at Wednesday’s meeting had no objection to this approach. Because the contracts had already been approved no formal action was needed. The commission instructed city staff to proceed with the monuments using the new funding plan.
The commission gave final approval for the project on Jan. 19 to construct four limestone signs to be placed at town entrance points. The project was proposed by a Building Futures tourism committee in 2009.
Through a variety of outlets, many citizens expressed displeasure with the cost of the monuments, the need for them and with the decision making of commissioners. Some in the community — though generally less vocal — expressed support for the idea because of potential benefits to Emporia.
Kessler and City Manager Matt Zimmerman initially defended the purchase but backed off Jan. 26 when the mayor announced the project was on a temporary hold to digest public feedback.
The money for the monuments was slated to come from the city’s multi-year fund. This is sales tax money the city collected as part of a countywide one-cent sales tax. The money is supposed to be used for infrastructure, and city leaders argue the entrance monuments count as infrastructure.
Kessler said while some people didn’t like the design of the signs, the most overwhelming reason people were against it had to do with money.
The city will take out $70,000 from this year’s CVB budget. Because that won’t be enough to cover all costs, the city will take out $41,720 from the 2011 special park. In 2012 the city will pay back the special park fund by taking $25,000 of CVB money that had been slated for Building Futures.
Kessler said the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB are on board with this plan as well.
All motel guests pay a transient guest tax when they stay in an Emporia motel room. The city receives that money and uses it for six different purposes, including day-to-day operations of the CVB and $25,000 for Building Futures activities, Zimmerman said.
The city will use all of that $25,000 this year and pledged the $25,000 next year toward the monuments, Zimmerman said.
The special park money comes from alcohol taxes patrons pay for drinks at local establishments. Zimmerman said one of the entrances will be associated with a park so he felt they could use money from this account.
Commissioner Julia Johnson said it was a good compromise. She said the commission still needs to have a discussion about what is considered infrastructure.
“In my opinion beautification is part of infrastructure,” she said.
Kessler said he still believes in the project.
“I believe we need to improve our community,” he said. “I think it shows a sign of stability and that we’re proud of our community. We are progressive and doing things to move ahead.”
Johnson said ever since she was first elected in 1999, people have said to her something needs to be done to improve the entrances.
“I took that to heart and we have talked about that in general terms for a long time and specific terms the last three to four years.”
She said the design is a good one that reflects the area.
“It’s an appropriate design and it will be very attractive,” Johnson said. “It is not the solution to all of our problems. There are other things we have to do within the city to make this a place that is attractive to those driving by and looking to settle here.”
Nelson said he also received a good suggestion about writing some kind of message on the back of the monument thanking visitors for coming to Emporia. He said he would be willing to pledge $500 of his own money to make that happen and that other private donations could be raised. It could cost $6,000 to $7,000 for the additional messages, he said.
The commission previously approved a $27,140 contract for design services with Emig and Associates Architects, a $41,225 contract with Mitchell-Markowitz Construction to build the foundations and set the entrance stones for four monuments and a contract with Alan Tollakson to carve up to six monuments at a cost of $7,500 per monument.
The city has spent $16,665 to date on the project. They have paid Dave Emig $8,520 for design work, Tollakson $6,550 for sculpting, Bob Davis $1,000 for the stone, $425 RHK Enterprises for surveying, $158 to The Gazette for bid publications and $12 to Bluestem Farm & Ranch for supplies.
bobhornet (anonymous) says...
“In my opinion beautification is part of infrastructure,” Julie Johnson said.
Julie, I fear you've lost touch with our community. If you really believe this in the economic situation we're in, it's time for your tenure on the commission to end.
“I believe we need to improve our community,” Jim Kessler said. “I think it shows a sign of stability and that we’re proud of our community. We are progressive and doing things to move ahead.”
Stability? Jobs, busy storefronts, and growth are REAL signs of stability. Jim, you never have been in touch with the community. Time for a change.
February 17, 2011 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
knute (anonymous) says...
Ms Johnson, I have to disagree that the stones will project a positive image for the city. Perhaps the best use of the funds would be to crush the rocks and fill in some of the excessive number of potholes in town. I am reasonably certain tourists, per se, would comment in the same sentence perhaps on the rocks and the horrible condition of our streets. That might be a possibility for funding: dentists could advertise fillings replacements on signs near the rocks. Will people remember a pothole-infested town? Likely a long time more than the funny looking rocks.
February 17, 2011 at 3:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
spectator (anonymous) says...
I thought (how stupid of me) that a fairly good number of people were decidedly against this project as was indicated on several of the Gazette's webpages.
The commission has demonstrated in no uncertain terms that it will do as it darn well pleases.
Somebody else said it first, and I am inclined to agree; I'd move out of here if I could afford it.
February 17, 2011 at 3:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthinkin (anonymous) says...
so, how many times do we pay Emig for the same design?
February 17, 2011 at 3:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Kessler still believes. I still believe we need new leadership downtown!
February 17, 2011 at 3:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
custom (anonymous) says...
I have read this story and still don't know what the other commisioners had to say or how they voted. Does anyone know?
February 17, 2011 at 3:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mgfeller (anonymous) says...
Do the people of this town actually believe they are living in a democracy? This "my way or the highway" attitude is typical of the right wing that has become the darling of the poorly informed seeking simple answers to complex questions. Well, this is what you voted for here in Emporia. How do you like it so far?
February 17, 2011 at 3:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...
Emporia Rocks !!!
February 17, 2011 at 4:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
EmporiaRocks (anonymous) says...
Yes?
February 17, 2011 at 4:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
custom,
EVERY commissioner still backed it and EVERY commissioner had already voted for it. There is a link on the other thread for a thread of the meeting.
February 17, 2011 at 4:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
f anyone is interested in watching footage from last nights meeting they can follow this link http://www.inkbarreltv.com/inkbarrelC...
State of the City Address is around 1:45 second mark and Entrance Monument discussion starts at about the 18:00 minute mark.
February 17, 2011 at 4:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Steve will you serve if we write you in?
February 17, 2011 at 7:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Emporia_Mom (anonymous) says...
There needs to be a petition started to stop this!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 17, 2011 at 7:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Do a recall on the commish will be bout the only way to stop the rocks
February 17, 2011 at 7:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
roxalan (anonymous) says...
It doesn't matter what the feedback was on those rocks the City Commissioners was going to do it no matter what the people wanted done. It is the voice of money who wins the say and not the majority. They don't care that the streets needs fixed or to bring jobs in all the Commissioners care about is lets see how many people look at them rocks. Well I for one don't see that bringing people into our city to stay..
February 17, 2011 at 7:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
I told by one of the commish there was as many for these as against. After 2 polls one by KVOE and we know who this station. And all this time folks had the chance to come out for their rocks I have seen not not very many in favor. Ok Bobby where all your numbers?
February 17, 2011 at 8:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
booker5m,
Please don't waste your precious votes. Like you, I am physically unable to serve. If I felt I could do the job, (and it is a rough job), I would have one heck of a campaign in this race. It would be interesting to say the least.
I would like to let everyone know who I am voting for, come election day, but that might hurt those candidates chances.
Think my mind is made up now but I am going to listen to the candidates tomorrow and in the coming days before I vote. I think that is 1 reason that advance voting is slow right now, people are listening and studying the candidates views on the issues.
February 17, 2011 at 8:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Of course I am still able to sit at home and keep track of what's going on, so whomever is elected, they may have to deal with the Forum posts. Just as it should be.
February 17, 2011 at 8:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Do you think they take us serious yet?
February 17, 2011 at 8:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jamesbordonaro (James Bordonaro) says...
Just a quick correction to the story. I believe the City Commission voted to take $60,000 from the CVB not $70,000 as is reported.
February 17, 2011 at 8:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
I don't know, we have been too quiet for too long. i do think everyone involved was truly shocked at the blow back. The results of the election will be revealing on how everyone really feels.
February 17, 2011 at 8:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
We can hope for good things. As long as we don't too much inter fighting just good descusions
February 17, 2011 at 9:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
The city receives that money and uses it for six different purposes, including day-to-day operations of the CVB and $25,000 for Building Futures activities, Zimmerman said.
well zimmerman, what the hell are the other purposes,, you only names 2,, where are you spending the rest of it, and or where is it being hidden, kinda like that misc. pot?? time for you zimmerman, to start telling the truth, and telling those in the city and Lyon county where all of the moneys, no matter where it all came from, show it where you are wasting it, the time has come bozo.
February 17, 2011 at 9:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
WOW! Another tip over on those round abouts. Ever think maybe Flying J is dying not just because of the smoking ban, but the truckers that steer clear of that mess because the grade is wrong. 100k would have been better spent there.
February 17, 2011 at 10:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
busybody (anonymous) says...
Okay - the time has come. Vote these jokers out or forever hold your piece ! ! !
February 17, 2011 at 11:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://geraldcelentechannel.blogspot....
February 18, 2011 at 6:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
doubt_it (anonymous) says...
I think everyone should listen to what each candidate has to say before making up their minds on who to vote for. I truly believe, everyone should exercise their right to vote. What concerns me is this: we have again, prominent people voicing who their choice is, so now we have everyone convinced that's who should be elected. People. I implore you to make up your own minds. Don't vote for someone just because someone on this forum said they are the best choice or your neighbor said they are the best choice. Use your brain, listen to each candidate, weigh the facts, make an informed decision. Yes, I do believe we need new blood, but let's make sure it's the right blood. And no, I'm not a forum newbie. I read each & every thread and post. I check out my own resources. I only choose to respond when I feel I need to respond. Just because someone doesn't respond to every comment or get into a debate over every thread, doesn't make them a forum newbie that should be put to shame or left out. People, now is our chance. Get informed and vote.
February 18, 2011 at 7:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
citizen1 (anonymous) says...
I have an idea! Since we will be erecting large rocks that resemble the male anatomy why dont we erect two other statues at the entrances into town that resemble the female anatomy
( take your pick)these will represent our fine city commisioners!
February 18, 2011 at 7:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
gooseylucy (anonymous) says...
goodoleboy, Perhaps that is the real reason we need the big rocks. They're gonna use them to keep the big rigs from tipping clear over on the round abouts. LOL!!
February 18, 2011 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sunshine (anonymous) says...
jamesbordonaro, No, the article is correct. I was at the meeting and heard them say $70,000.
Steve, I just want to say that I think it was a great suggestion that you made about the money coming from CVB. That is where it SHOULD come from. And I think it is very appropriate that money allocated for Building Futures is going toward this since it was their idea. I still do not believe that the rocks are necessary when compared to other things that could be improved in this town...other beautification projects that could be done. However, its a little easier to live with knowing the appropriate funds are paying for it.
I didn't expect them to go ahead with the project so soon, hoped maybe the commissioners and others would wait until they received public feedback on the new decision. This is the disappointing thing to me, that they just plow through thinking that the decisions they make are what the community really wants. Something likes this requires a great deal of research and negotiating. I keep hearing that 10 years ago the community wanted something done with the entrances. Perhaps this is true, but when the money was available to move forward with it (even though their timing is terrible), why wouldn't they want public feedback on what type of improvements the community wants. If the community won't drag their butts to the meetings to speak up, put it in the paper, not just hidden in the vague wording of the City Commission Agenda. Make it loud and clear and gather suggestions, choose the most feasible options and let the community VOTE! Beautification projects are a good way to increase pride in a community and Maybe to draw visitors (jury is still out on that since I've seen no facts and figures on that), but the community will take greater pride in it if it is something they want.
I have had a few days to put things in perspective after the meeting the other night and I wish I would have said these things there. I am working on my fear of public speaking, and I came close to speaking my peace, at least requesting facts and figures....but I also went to the meeting thinking that many people on this board would be there to speak their minds along with me. There is safety in numbers guys. I realize that their minds were already made up, and before they walked into that room they knew what they were going to say, their vote was already done before entering that room. But I still think they need to hear us. What they heard was the one person who stood up in support of the rocks, who also criticized the people who post to the Gazette anonymously.
February 18, 2011 at 7:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )