In the last decade, Emporia’s population has declined by 1,844 people.
A population loss was expected following the reduction in workforce in some large local employers over the last decade. The question is how much smaller is Emporia compared to a decade ago.
According to Census 2010 data released Thursday, Emporia was home to 24,916 people in 2010. In 2000, the population was 26,760.
“We were expecting a loss but hoping the numbers had been adjusted some since the last estimates,” said Jeanine McKenna, Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce president. “With Tyson closing part of its operations we knew there would be a challenge ahead of us.”
In closing the slaughter operations early in 2008, the Tyson workforce was reduced from about 2,400 to 1,000.
Rob Catlett, Emporia State Center for Economic Education director of community research, said in a Gazette story last year about the Census that Tyson’s reduction combined with a sluggish economy might account for a bulk of the decline.
“In sluggish economic times there tends to be dramatic decrease in high paying jobs in rural areas,” Catlett said. “Economic considerations drive population.”
According to state Census data, Emporia was part of population decline trend in non-metropolitan areas. The census figures showed that 77 of the state’s 105 counties had fewer residents in 2010 than in 2000, and 23 of the counties saw their populations drop by more than 10 percent.
Yet Kansas’ overall population grew by 6 percent over the decade, allowing the state to avoid losing representation in Congress. The state’s population exceeded 2.85 million, up nearly 165,000 from the 2000 figure of 2.69 million.
The population declines in rural areas of the state didn’t surprise demographers and others who’ve studied census figures. The Docking Institute of Public Policy at Fort Hays State University has concluded that people are migrating from small communities — some to regional trade centers, but more to the Kansas City and Wichita areas.
McKenna said there are plenty of signs locally that businesses are recovering and Emporia just added more than 100 jobs when the new Hill’s Pet Nutrition plant opened in 2010.
“Right now we are seeing good signs and signals,” she said. “There’s not many Kansas communities right now that are opening businesses with more than 100 new jobs.”
Past Census estimates pointed to the decline. An estimate of population in July 2009 was 24,868 people lived in Emporia. Thus Emporia may have even gained a few new residents since then.
A Census data subset on race also has been released. The number of caucasians declined from 21,041 to 19,738 from 2000 to 2010. The Hispanic or Latino population increased from 5,752 to 6,331. The black population declined by two from 793 to 791. The Asian population increased from 712 to 771.
Breaking it down by percentages, Emporia is 79.2 percent white, 3.2 percent black and 3.1 percent Asian. The rest is other races or two or more races.
In the Census, persons of Hispanic origin were identified by a question that asked for the person’s origin or descent. In Emporia, 25.4 percent of respondents said they were of Hispanic origin in 2010, up from 21.5 percent in 2000.
The total number of housing units in Emporia is 11,352, which is up 333 from 2010. However, the number of occupied units is 9,812 compared to 10,253 in 2000.
Lyon County’s 2010 Census population is 33,690, which is down 2,245 from 2010, a drop of 6.3 percent.
In the state’s portion of the Kansas City metro area, Johnson County saw its population grow nearly 21 percent and had the census confirm its status as the state’s most populous county. There’s also a cluster of growing counties in the Wichita metropolitan area, and the counties around Fort Riley in northeast Kansas also saw significant growth, thanks to an expansion on the Army post.
Kiowa County in southwest Kansas saw the biggest population decline of any county. A deadly May 2007 tornado leveled almost all of its seat of Greensburg, and the census reported that the county’s population declined 22 percent over the decade as it lost 725 residents, dropping to 2,553.
In the greater Kansas City area, only Wyandotte County saw a slight decline in its population, despite booming retail development around Kansas Speedway, the NASCAR track in Kansas City, Kan.
Wichita, the state’s largest city, also saw its population rise 11 percent to 382,368, over the decade. Sedgwick County, the most populous county in 2000, dropped to the No. 2 position in 2010, with 498,365 residents.
But the most robust rate of growth was for Geary County, which saw its population increase nearly 23 percent over the decade, to 34,362, largely because of the return of the 1st Infantry Division’s headquarters to Fort Riley in 2006.
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
How many people live in Emporia and work in Topeka, Wichita or Kansas City?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2004 report Journey To Work, trips of 90 minutes or more are the fastest growing category of commute since 1990. (3.4 million and growing)
It's important for Emporia to attract new business, but I also see potential for Emporia to become an "exurb" -- this is an extreme suburb. Emporia is essentially 1 hour to 1.5 hours to all 3 major metros.
This may seem like a long time to spend on the road, but the tradeoff for extreme commuters comes in the cost of their housing. If Emporia could fix the housing and offer prices more appealing, people would move to Emporia.
Emporia can offer homes with large lawns, low crime rates and fewer people. In general, living farther away from core metropolitan areas is believed to provide the safe and unhurried lifestyle that makes small-town life appealing. (3.4 million and growing)
You could raise the issue of gas prices near $3.50 per gallon ... what about car pooling? Or, rush hour traffic takes almost as much gas as driving 60 - 90 miles. Plus, rush hour traffic, with the constant stop and go, is hard on brakes.
In addition, there's a growing trend among technology companies to allow their employees to work from home.
Emporia can't compare to the job markets in the major metros. And, that seems to be why rural areas are loosing population. Find a way to lower the cost of living in Emporia (for all citizens). Attract business. But, also attract people away from the city.
It would work (remember, trips of 90 minutes or more are the fastest growing category of commute since 1990. (3.4 million and growing), with the right plan and marketing.
March 4, 2011 at 12:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Our tax rate in this town is to high in correlation with our population. Emporia housing (from what I have compared) is overvalued. The trade off for commuting is cheap living, when compared to the suburbs of KC Emporia is not that much cheaper.
I would also like to point out that our hospital has a poor reputation for medical care, this is a major detractor for Boomers wanting to retire here.
Finally I would like to add that I am one who commutes to KC, that being said it is getting harder and harder for me reason staying here versus moving closer to my employer. Right now Emporia is doing all the wrong things to keep people like me here.
March 4, 2011 at 1:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
That's why I mentioned lowering the cost of living and fixing the things that need to be fixed.
Other towns, with less to offer, have boomed.
On Monday, I was at a local restaurant and talked with a gentleman who was sitting at a nearby table w/ a computer. He and his family moved to Emporia from KC. He's a software designer and commutes. They wanted to live in a smaller community. They weren't impressed with Ottawa. Lawrence was too big. Although housing was more than they expected in Emporia, they have tripled their living space. Plus, he likes the school system.
I am also from the KC metro and can compare housing. Yes, housing can be too much in Emporia. But, if Emporia can find a way to lower the cost of living and fix the roads, etc ... then, people are willing to commute.
March 4, 2011 at 1:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Sales tax rate at almost %9 plus the conundrum of how are they going to lower tax rates and fix the roads without raising taxes. This town really screwed up over the last decade, when the jobs started leaving that should have been cue to cut back. We did not, and now they are banking on rocks to attract tourists to save this town. It's not going to happen, I have not once heard the commission speak of attracting more people like me to this town. To be honest, all the real estate here is still adjusted for the late 90's when this town was booming. There is no way I pay 140K for a house here when I could buy the same one for 10k more in KC, in some cases less with all the distressed property.
March 4, 2011 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TexasGirl (anonymous) says...
Newto, you have some great points, as long as those commuters spend their dollars here, and not in the metro areas before they come home.
Goodole, just a little plug for the hospital, I've had two outpatient surgeries there plus a couple of trips to the ER and have received great care every time. A little over a year ago, a family member of mine had to be transferred from Newman to Wesley in Wichita for emergency surgery. She received such poor care there that once her surgery was done, she begged to return to Newman for her rehabilitation. Insurance wouldn't cover an ambulance or helicopter ride, so we packed her up with pillows and blankets in the back seat of the car and brought her home. That's how much superior the care was here in little ole Emporia.
March 4, 2011 at 2:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Texasgirl,
Glad you had a good experience, I have not, my wife has not, and I have not heard many come out in favor of Newman. My father lists this as one of primary concerns for not retiring here. I do hope they get better, but the reality is that their reputation is not very good.
March 4, 2011 at 2:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Well, well, well , very interesting .
How many of you think there is any correlation , between the ever increasing spending of the City Commission on the wants of some people and the absurdly high taxes and public services fees and the decline of the population and decline / closing of businesses of Emporia and the living costs of living in Emporia ?
What is the price of housing in Emporia, compared to those in much larger cities and urban areas ?
I have been telling the leadership of Emporia any way I can, for quite a while, that if they continue to spend ruthlessly and unnecessarily and continue to increase taxes, etc., to support their spending, that Emporia will shrink, wither and die !
Businesses closing, people have been leaving along with jobs, from Emporia, faster in the last decade than at another time in Emporias history !
Ask yourselves, " Why " !
Is it because of those of us who have been complaining about Emporias leadership decisions ?
Or is it because of the actual decisions of Emporias leadership ?
March 4, 2011 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
The fact of the matter is, Emporia has one of the highest costs of living, for a City / Town its size of any City / Town in Kansas !
And it looks as if it will get even higher !!
Again I ask you to ask yourselves, Why ?
March 4, 2011 at 2:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
methusla,
I just did a search and compared two houses one house is in Emporia and another house for sale in Overland Park. I picked the houses from Trulia. So, I didn't search for an exact real estate company. This is how I narrowed the overall search:
Both houses are approx. 2500 sq. feet. Both houses were built within 5 years of each other (1982 and 1987). Both houses have 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Yes, those are quite large houses ... But, it was hard to find houses that could compare in size and year built.
The house in Emporia is priced at $227,900. The house in Overland Park is priced at $255,000.
However, when comparing the above mentioned house in Emporia to a similar house in Olathe, the house in Olathe sells for $165,000. $62,000 less than the same sized house in Emporia (built within 6 years of each other -- the house in Olathe built in 1988 and has 100 more sq feet).
March 4, 2011 at 3:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...
People always bash their hometown hospital. Guess doctors are like other "experts" ... they're a lot smarter 100 miles from home.
We've had 4 kids born at Newman, a few outpatient surgeries and one inpatient, and we've always gotten great care ... and better, more personalized treatment than in the big city hospitals.
It's always good to keep looking for ways to improve, but the health care in Emporia is not a reason to live elsewhere.
March 4, 2011 at 3:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
There are many more examples, but I won't continue.
Of course, there are many factors to consider when pricing a house. However, the comparable houses in Overland Park were consistantly higher (by at least $20,000) than the houses in Emporia.
On the other hand, the comparable houses in Olathe were typically lower than the houses in Emporia.
And, from first hand experience, I know sales tax in Emporia is comparable to Leawood.
So, in those terms, Emporia seems to be more expensive than Olathe. And, a little cheaper than Overland Park.
March 4, 2011 at 3:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
b3bill (anonymous) says...
All problems, like the population decline in Emporia, are caused by the faceless, rabid dog Gazette Bloggers, who have no credibility, in their constant pursuit to plague Emporia.
Who else could have caused this??? It certainly couldn't have been due to any poor decisions made by the leadership of this town, or the lack of effectiveness of those paid to advance the town.
March 4, 2011 at 3:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
gooseylucy (anonymous) says...
I agree with TexasGirl. NRH does give really good care. I've had personal experiences with NRH and other area hospitals, and NRH had them all beat. I think NRH has been trying very hard to improve their reputation, but some folks just refuse to give them a shot. (No pun intended.)
And it's always the dis-satisfied customers you hear from, not the satisfied ones. Come on, give em a break!
March 4, 2011 at 3:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
The so called leaders of Emporia think they can tax themselves into greatness
March 4, 2011 at 3:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
newtoemporia,
Thanks for taking the time to compare, I found the same thing to be true when I looked at housing in other suburbs of KC. Pretty sad when a town of 20k costs more to live than a town many times it's size. The only thing I can good about Emporia is in comparison with KC it's property taxes are lower, and given the trend I am certain they won't be for long.
March 4, 2011 at 3:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
To be fair, there is another house in Emporia approx the same size, same area and it's listed at $179,900. So, it's kinda' hard to compare houses without our own town!! LOL
But, either way ... the towns in Johnson County remain fairly consistant w/ size, age and location. Overland Park is still more expensive than this house in Emporia.
And, Olathe prices are typically or similar cheaper than comparable houses in Emporia.
March 4, 2011 at 3:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
that was suppose to be "within our own town!!"
March 4, 2011 at 3:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
goodoleboy
Yeah ... I was actually shocked when I saw the comparisons. I'm glad you got the same search results. Emporia is a good town, but I don't understand why the cost of living is comparable (or a little more) to that of Olathe and Gardner.
March 4, 2011 at 3:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
I don't either, there are other towns similar in size to Emporia that do not cost near as much.
March 4, 2011 at 4:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jamesbordonaro (James Bordonaro) says...
I take the new census data in stride and discern a bit of good news. The Gazette says Tyson has 1400 fewer jobs now than before the layoffs. Assuming the average worker was supporting 1 or 2 dependants and the population fell by only 1844 then it might mean that there hasn't been as many people moving out of emporia as there could have been. Also, national employment data is showing very slow but positive signs in the economy with the national unemployment rate finally below 9%
March 4, 2011 at 4:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
James,
The real number is probably a lot higher than 1844. Regardless of what the data says now, I expect the trend to continue if the city keeps going at it's current pace.
I find it humorous how the Chamber of Commerce blames this all on Tyson. Tyson was a blow but what about Modine,Didde, Lenza, Detroit Diesel layoffs. The net jobs lost in the last 10 years exceeds the gains. People want to point to the economy but it is not the only source of the problem, poor management and reckless spending are every bit as much to blame.
One only need to drive downtown and look at the courthouse to see why this town is in the shape it is. I'm sure the tourists will save us though, right after they raise taxes to build more crap we don't need.
March 4, 2011 at 5:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rabblerouser (anonymous) says...
Hold on to your shorts people! If the rise in the cost of living continues to increase in Emporia and Lyon County this trend will continue. We received our property evaluation and it went up $5,220. Almost 14% on a doublewide mobile home. Will be moving soon!!!!!!!!
March 4, 2011 at 6:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
there are still enough people left in Emporia to eat all the tasty biscuits and gravy from the Lions Club members Sat. morning at the senior center. ummm good !
March 4, 2011 at 6:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tossedcat (anonymous) says...
That's 1,845. I moved from emporia this year. There are no good jobs in emporia thats why I moved. It is really sad to see a town with the location it has is not bigger with more oppertunities. I've seen smaller towns that are out in the middle of nowhere more prosperious then here? Even when I lived in emporia i did work in topeka, wichita, salina, kansas city. ENJOY YOUR RAISING TAXES BECAUSE SOMEONE GOT TO PAY THEM......
March 4, 2011 at 6:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hornet08 (anonymous) says...
Maybe people will move back once they see how awesome the rock 'memorials' are?
March 4, 2011 at 7:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
flyboy32 (anonymous) says...
In checking my tax statements for the past three years, my city taxes have not increased over these three years. The increases have been the schools, recreation and the county. Why does everyone continue to bash the city when they are the only ones who have continued to hold the line on spending and taxes???
March 4, 2011 at 7:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
flyboy32
check your water, trash and sewer rates for the last 3 years. Granted property tax went up for the other 3 entities , they can't hide behind fees for service.
March 4, 2011 at 8:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Since Tyson (the cities largest water user and buyer) closed slaughter in 2008 the city revenue from water sales rose over1.3 million dollars. Sewer revenues saw a comparable increase. who do you think is paying that increase, (instead of property taxes)?
March 4, 2011 at 8:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Has the city has used income from the water and sewer funds to fund the general operations of the city? That way the commissioners can say they kept taxes flat.
Ask the incumbent candidate about it and see what his answer is?
March 4, 2011 at 8:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
better yet , before you ask him go to the city web site and print off a copy of the city budget pertaining to waterworks fund, then ask him about it.
March 4, 2011 at 8:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
krazykansan (anonymous) says...
I'm with you Hornet, the rock entrance signs will draw in at least 3,000 people.
Can't wait till they get=r done. Heaven's
sakes alive, i'll spend at least $50 bucks in gas myself just driving back and forth looking at them.
March 4, 2011 at 8:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Did I mention the Lions club biscuit and sausage gravy fund raiser tomorrow at the senior center?
March 4, 2011 at 8:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
When most of the property in Emporia is owned by the real estate companys, banks, radio station owners, RDA, COC, CVB, EBF, etc. and are will be required to pay the taxes on the property they own, in order to maintain their extravigant spending for wants and needles items .... then you will be able to hear the squealing, complaigning and in fighting, all the way to Timbuktu, and loud cursing and praying to the " ROCKS " for help !!
March 4, 2011 at 9:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Oh, and newtoemporia, I had already done the same research on home prices in various areas and found pretty much the same thing you did !
I usually don' t make a statement or ask a question, unless I have already done the research and already have an answer, unlike our city leaders who just blindly jump and hope for the best !!!
And yes I may complain a lot, but I believe I have just cause to complain !!
March 4, 2011 at 9:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
eccentriceric (anonymous) says...
newtoemporia, What about rental prices from up in Olathe/KC area and Emporia? I think rental properties here are overpriced. I want to live in a small house but only can afford overpriced crappy apartments. Plus trying to find one that allows pets. is it hard to find rentals that allow pets up there?
March 4, 2011 at 9:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Compared to the quality of rentals available in Olathe and K/C area, yes the rental prices in Emporia are overpriced for what you get and there are a lot of rentals in Emporia that do not allow pets either, for what you are expected to pay for them !! Why else would rental owners in Emporia be called " slum lords " ! Besides the wage in Emporia does not merit the rental prices paid, nor does the quality of a lot of the retals demand the prices asked !!
And if I remember correctly K/C and the K/C metro area have a sort of Public Rental Association, that requires most of the rental properties and rental landlords keep their rental properties to certain standards and this rental association is not connected to the City in any way !!
March 4, 2011 at 10:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
eccentric,
Here is an example of an apartment in K.C., Mo. for rent that allows pets !
Save Property Collect $100 in Rewards Quality Hill Towers
929 Jefferson Kansas City, MO 64105
$405-$540
Bed: Stu-1
Bath: 1-1
Pets: Dogs Allowed! Cats Allowed!
And there are a lot of apartments in K.C. metro area, as well as houses for rent that allow pets !!
March 4, 2011 at 10:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
My family moved to Emporia from Wichita in 1945 and the price of houses and rentals were higher and there is a reason, it is called economics of scale. In Emporia, builders traditionaly build one home at a time, while in the big cities builders build many homes at one time and so they can take advantage of price discounts.
March 4, 2011 at 11:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
eccentric,
Here is an example of a pet friendly apartment for rent in Olathe, Kansas.
. See All 5 Photos
$435 - $535
Immediate Move In Available!
Bed Studio - 2
Bath 1
Pets
Bavarian Village Apartments
763 South Keeler, Olathe, KS, 66061 Map
INSTANT PRE APPROVAL!!!!!! If you are looking for the excitement of suburban living in a quiet, peac...
Here are examples of houses for rent in K.C. metro area .
Ready To Move In!!!
Save Kansas City, MO 64130
(7.37 miles)
$475
Beds:2 Baths:1
Listing #r1031102
(888) 573-5146
Own This One!!!!
Save Kansas City, MO 64110
(3.41 miles)
$500
Beds:2 Baths:1
Listing #r1044964
So yes there are pet friendly houses availabel in the K.C. metro area, that are a lot better than in Emporia for the same price or just a little higher and some may even be lower and are in better condition to boot !!!
March 4, 2011 at 11:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Stop think and listen!! If the price of housing is so high, why are the builders not building more new housing?
March 4, 2011 at 11:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Spoken like a true Realtor, reddog !!!
March 4, 2011 at 11:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Emporia is just a plain overpriced City for its size, in every aspect when compared to other Citys of the same size, smaller or larger, PERIOD ....
March 4, 2011 at 11:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
krazykansan ,
That is a lot of money to spend on gas to go around and around the roundabout just to look at a " ROCK " !
Just make sure you don' t get dizzy and wreck on the roundabout !!
March 4, 2011 at 11:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
eccentriceric (anonymous) says...
thanks for the info methusla. what site are you getting this from? I'd like to get out of emporia some day. I've been here too long.
March 4, 2011 at 11:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
I'm familiar with 9th and Jefferson in KCMO ... bad area near downtown and the river. Close to the old airport. Downtown KCMO is hit and miss.
The apartments in Olathe are on the other side of 135. It's near downtown Olathe (public library, court house, etc). Those apartments are equivalent to the apartments in Emporia and are priced similarly.
eccentriceric,
The rentals, in Emporia, typically seem to be overpriced for their quality. From the examples methusla provided and from first hand knowledge, most Emporia rentals are priced within the same range as rentals in KC.
I'm viewing the web site for a newer apartment complex in Emporia: 1093 sq feet priced at $775.
I'm viewing a web site for an apartment complex built within the same timeframe in Overland Park (not too far from Town Centre, Sprint Corp., Menorah Medical Center, etc): 1100 sq feet priced at $878. This apartment also includes a fireplace and attached garage. An apartment without an attached garage will be $100 less. So, $778. ($3 dollars more than the apartment in Emporia).
On the Kansas side of the metro, the city's do follow housing codes. Johnson County is more of a stickler than Wyandotte.
Most rentals in the city do allow 1 or 2 pets. But, there are breed and weight restrictions. Plus, on top of rent, a tenant is typically required to pay an extra $100 - 300, per pet, every month.
March 4, 2011 at 11:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
eccentriceric (anonymous) says...
Newtoemporia,
Is there houses or apts around $300 range up there? I'm on disability and can't afford much. I'm tired of being limited to slums. thanks
March 5, 2011 at midnight ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
eccentriceric,
If Emporia could lower it's cost of living, it would be a huge draw.
If you ever want to raise a family, there are good and bad to living within a city.
Yes, there are more things to do. But, how often will you go shopping or visit a museum? If you live in Olathe and want to visit the art museum in KCMO or Crown Center, that's a 40+ minute drive. People often forget because it is a metro.
In Emporia, you can get to three major city's in the same time it takes to drive from Olathe to Liberty, Mo. (And, you have never left the metro!!)
The hospitals are more specialized: cancer treatment centers, state-of-the-art heart centers, a leading children's hospital etc. But, people are also flown into these hospitals. I know someone in Kansas City who had a heart attack: By the time the ambulance arrived, loaded her and drove to the hospital ... A little over an hour had passed. I'm not sure, but I would assume life flight can also make it from Emporia to KC or Topeka within an hour or so.
When I spoke with the gentleman from KC earlier this week, he mentioned how impressed he was with Emporia's school. His child came from Blue Valley which is considered to be one of the best in the nation. According to him, Emporia was ahead of Blue Valley in their studies. Plus, he mentioned his child has received more attention from teachers at Emporia. I asked about classroom size and it seems comparable.
Emporia could certainly maximize on it's location.
March 5, 2011 at 12:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
Yes, but, unfortunately, you would be limited to certain areas of KCMO. Trust me, those would be crime infested neighborhoods. Most apartments on the Kansas side start at $400+.
March 5, 2011 at 12:23 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
reddog,
I can understand your point on the economics of scale. A lot of housing and apartments appear quickly within the city.
But, what about the houses that were built 20+ years ago in Emporia compared to similar houses in KC? They are comparable in sales price. I know many factors are considered when selling a house, but when you are comparing a house in Emporia to a house in a metro, a person would think a smaller town would offer a lower price.
When you compare prices to the city (whether it's a house for sale or a place to rent), I'm finding very similar prices in Emporia.
I'm not making any of this up. Anyone can search real estate web sites and compare housing and rentals ... it's very similar.
People typically move to a smaller town to save money and live in a safer community. You certainly get a safer community with Emporia.
March 5, 2011 at 12:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
@reddog
"Stop think and listen!! If the price of housing is so high, why are the builders not building more new housing?"
Dipsh!t, seriously if you can't figure this out on own I feel for you. Reason is that supply exceeds demand, and will for time. Arseholes like you try to rip people off and a big reason the financial crisis perpetuated itself. I am gonna laugh my ass off when you take a monstrous hit trying to sell what you hold. Best move I ever made was not even trying to move any real estate with you, and you lost big on that one buddy=)
March 5, 2011 at 1:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
There go's godoleboy being tough behind his mask. Seriously enough with your insults dude.
March 5, 2011 at 6:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Well my property evaluation this year is quite a surprise. It usually goes up, but this time it went DOWN. Curiously enough, this is after I had $5K worth of new windows installed last spring. However, my utility bills have gone down as a result of the windows.
March 5, 2011 at 9:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sail (anonymous) says...
The decline is small in # of people,the decline in family income is where we should all worry. Come on rda get a plan going , that we as a community can get our collective arms around....
March 5, 2011 at 9:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cyberspace (anonymous) says...
I relocated from Johnson County a few years ago. One of the major differences between Emporia and JoCo is quality of leadership and jobs that are available. This creates a talent drain on the area. Our young, home-grown talent has nothing to keep them here, so they are compelled to leave to start their careers.
The competency of many of the managers in business is afffected because what is left are not competent and they tend to favor cronyism and nepotism. Without new blood and ideas, companies stagnate. New blood and competent people with good work ethics are feared, more than valued. Expectations t for worker productivity are not enforced, especially at facilities that receive taxpayer money resulting in poor performance, low productivity and morale among employees.
Companies in JoCo employ people who bring a good work ethic, who meet set expectations resulting in increased productivity and profits.
Facilities that receive taxpayer money are not motivated to succeed. They figure they are going to get their money, regardless. This needs to change and the taxpayer needs to demand it.
Economics will force this change very soon.
March 5, 2011 at 9:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Wichitawings (anonymous) says...
Well my property valuation went up 10K, with no improvements, and the neighbors went down 5K with new siding and windows installed. Just another trip I have to make to the courthouse to pick up the appeals papers. Think the assessor got the addresses wrong when they were driving around looking!!
March 5, 2011 at 9:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cyberspace (anonymous) says...
There are landlords in Emporia who are committed to improving the quality of the properties being rented in town. What happens? They get black-balled for their effort, instead of rewarded for trying to improve the quality of life. This type of attitude will not bring about the improvements needed to attract businesses that are not blue collar. The quality of the workforce in the Emporia area needs more diversity and not necessarily cultural diversity, there is plenty of that already. We need more professional jobs that attract talent.
March 5, 2011 at 9:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
This is the first population decline Emporia has seen.
March 5, 2011 at 10:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
eccentric,
I am sorry I did not provide the " rental " site addresses I got my information from !
What I did was, in my Bing search engine space , I typed in " pet friendly rental apartments in the K.C. metro area " and " pet friendly houses for rent in the K.C. metro area " and clicked search .
I imagine that this search proceedure would work for just about any area you wish to do a search in !!
Here is the site that I looked at for the K.C. metro area rental houses, w/pictures of the houses !
http://www.rentalhouses.com/find/MO/K...
Also
http://www.rentalhouses.com/find/MO/K...
Sorry I didn' t include the above in my origional post.
March 5, 2011 at 10:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Exactly what kind of businesses or Industry do you, the people of Emporia want to locate in Emporia ?
I ask this, because I personally contacted, what I believe to be a " green " technology industry of the future and when I commented on these forums that I did so and what the industry did, one person said that they did not want a smelly businesses or Industry in Emporia and that what they wanted was Industries or businesses that paid " lots of money " !
Well, I look at it in the real life view ! And that is, right now in the present economic situation, Jobs are Jobs and when people have a job, they are going to feel like part of something and not absolutely useless .
There are a lot of people that want jobs that pay a lot of money that need to take a look at the following web site,
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41781471/...
March 5, 2011 at 10:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
No meth what I said was I wanted smelly good jobs that paid lots and lots of money. I was sort of joking with you because you were so angry about the world. I'm with you on this buddy we desperatly need jobs in Emporia I really don't care what kind of jobs. I don't know that we are in the position of turning down even low paying jobs. It is past time that the RDA is held accountable for the funding they recieve. If we are going to continue with the same RDA leadership we've had for the last fifteen years we are in trouble.
March 5, 2011 at 11:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
I appologize to you Tell, I misunderstood you comment and I appologize for the misunderstanding !
I am trying to improve things in Emporia just as much as I possibly can and afford, but after doing it for a while and running into a stone wall and being frustrated, old and getting tired, I guess I sometimes jump to the wrong conclusions. Sorry !!
But I will keep trying, not necessarily for myself, but for all of us Emporians and I hope, future generations of Emporians !!
March 5, 2011 at 12:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
apierich (anonymous) says...
I recently heard, and it is just gossip, that "some eco guy" is in the process of trying to buy the house next to me, which is exciting to me at least. The thing is Emporia has a good location for a lot of the Eco or Green companies because we have a possible workforce that although it is smaller than bigger companies need would fit a lot of green or eco startups and put them right between the major cities in Kansas. The thing about green technologies and companies is they have a range of salary, from the minimum wage worker who would do minor maitenance or other non-skill or limited skill up to higher earning technology and scientific positions. There is also enough space for research facilities on the outskirts. There are enough older buildings to test out new technologies for upgrading, but unless the prices drop no one is going to want to take it on if it is going to cost them the same if they stay in their metro area or if they just built a new building. Why not market the Lowther schools as a good place to install and research energy saving green technologies for older office buildings and schools? What about some of the older factory facilities?
I have said in another post that I have a friend who would love to move to Emporia but he would not be able to find a job that keeps his family in the middle class lifestyle he wants to keep them in and be able to stay at home. Because of this he is keeping his family in a city closer to their families, in a house in central Kansas that would cost him almost $100K more in Emporia through his in depth comparisons, and continues to travel 80% of the time for his job which takes him all over the country and is stationed in Georgia. If there were a green company brought in to Emporia he would likely be able to get a technology based job where he could be home at night and on weekends and keep his family in a middle class lifestyle. Green technologies are not the be all, end all but they are not likely to go away anytime soon.
What about a larger recycling facility? My grandmother who recently passed lived in a smaller city in Mo. about an hour from one of their major cities and they got a large recycling facility to locate on the outskirts of the town, in return for the towns monitary incentive to build they gave free recycling to the whole county, even supplying a polycart to everyone who got trash services. The cities are comprable in size, perhaps they are slightly bigger by a few thousand, but the larger city an hour away as well as others in the state contracted with the recycling company, brining that money into that city. There were all levels of jobs, most were for unskilled labor to sort recyclables but they payed more than the fast food joints. Something like that coming into town would be awesome!
March 5, 2011 at 2:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
apierich (anonymous) says...
We are a hometown, small enough to feel like neighbors but large enough to get most of what you need right down the street. We need to cash in on our quaintness and actually have a lower cost of living. Lower cost does not mean lower quality. And about Reddog and his posts on other discussions about W.A.W and his decission to show up to the job interview in style even though he didn't have the money to responsibly do it, who was his decission effecting? Who would have suffered if it didn't pay off? That was a personal risk he made that would have effected him and him alone (ok, maybe his family if he already had one, but I have not researched much about his life yet) but the high spending decisions to try to make Emporia a metropolitan like city effect everyone and not just one person. Reddog, you are not the city, as well as the commission is not the city. When you are put in the place of being responsible for someone other than yourself or your immediate family you need to move from "me" thinking and into "we" thinking. We are the ones that depend on you, We are the ones that expect you to listen to us and actually answer our questions until we are satisfied, We includes you and us. I understand wanting to dress things up and make things seem like they haven't affected our community as much as the rest of the world, but if floor is falling in does anyone care that the house has new siding? Not if it's priced and represented as being whole and in good repair. People won't move here till they can trust, they won't trust if they feel the people already here don't trust, and the people already here won't trust and stay unless the right decisions are being made by those who promise they will.
March 5, 2011 at 2:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
armybrat (anonymous) says...
Im also form kc area. Most of those apartment areas are rat holes. 9th and Jefferson? Really? I am not defending housing here but Olathe housing is cheap because they overbuilt and KC area had one of the highest unemployment problems in this latest 3 yr decline.
March 5, 2011 at 3:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Take the median wage here and tell me how someone is supposed to afford a decent house.
@ Tell
All of us are sick of Reddog's crap, I refuse to be decent to anyone that shows a total disregard for the posters here. So don't worry about me, I can handle myself.
March 5, 2011 at 5:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
Emporia is too far away from a commercial airport to attract people who's livelihood is dependent upon travel.
newtoemporia asked: "How many people live in Emporia and work in Topeka, Wichita or Kansas City?" There are quite a few who fall into this category, but, how many people live in Emporia and work in Atlanta, Chicago or Phoenix?
Emporian's are limited to work destinations because of the lack of reliable public transportation and the "thinking small" mentality of the life long residents of the Emporia micropolitan area is the cause of it's own demise.
There is absolutely nothing that Emporia makes that can't be made better and less expensive elsewhere. The RDA is a good concept but the people operating it are ineffective and have no vision and need to be replaced by people who understand a global economy and the importance of global reach. Airports, Seaports and Rail heads will beat out easy access to the turnpike every time.
March 5, 2011 at 7:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
" ROCKS ", the first SIGN of a global economy thinking leadership !!!
March 5, 2011 at 10:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
I don't think the RDA is a bad idea and I guess I would believe that they are working hard, but working hard doing the same thing with the same ideas just doesn't seem to be showing much results.
@ goodoleboy you just get braver and braver behind your mask. You used to at least have some intellect but you have stooped to insults and tough talk, maybe ole reddog scares you. Comments and ideas are well recieved but cowardly insults don't hold much from a mask.
March 5, 2011 at 10:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Intellect is still there, and reserved for people intelligent enough to hold a debate supported by fact and logic. Don't worry about ole goodoleboy, he can handle himself just fine=)
As for the RDA, bang up job they been doing the last 10 years. Clean house and get the right people involved, everyone here wants to see some results, not excuses.
March 6, 2011 at 5:51 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
What's wrong with a small town?
Manufacturing jobs are not going to be the saving force of Emporia. Those jobs are overseas, at least until Americans will work for $3.00 a day.
But you know a small town, with LOW TAXES, some arts' and entertainment, maybe a small university, (public or private), affordable housing and good medical facilities close by would make a nice place for retired people to consider.
Just an alternative way of thinking instead of constantly thinking we must grow, grow, grow.
March 6, 2011 at 7:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
netloafer (anonymous) says...
Steve
I've thought the same things.
I knew a lot of people in NJ who were ready to leave when they retired. I've seen surveys that indicate the same thing. A lot of them are looking for a place with a front porch with a swing, a small community, etc. One of the great advantages of getting some small share of these folks is that they come with cash in hand from the sale of their high priced home, 401K's that haven't been depleted. A lot of them would love to buy an older home and fix it up. They have disposable income and they would be willing to spend it. And, the RDA wouldn't have to create a job for them.
I know we wouldn't get a huge number of them, but I believe with some work we could get enough to make a difference.
I've talked to our leaders about this. They listen politely, but believe I'm a crazy man.
March 6, 2011 at 7:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Who knows, maybe we could eventually make AARPs' list of top ten places to retire?
We are stuck with the RDA until their funding runs out in 2024 or before. But we shouldn't be stuck with the same old thoughts of bringing industrial jobs, along with huge tax subsidies. After the new industrial park is finished, all future speculative park development should cease. at least until the spots we have are filled.
Our city leaders need to concentrate on providing a good quality of life, within the confines of the taxpayers ability to pay for it.
Right now, Emporia is an almost perfect place to live. Lower tax rates would just about do it.
March 6, 2011 at 7:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jasond (anonymous) says...
It may be a great place for retired people to consider, but what about younger people such as myself, who are trying to start a family? There are few career opportunities here for young people graduating from our own local university. It's not just grow, grow, grow, but how to stay, stay, stay.
March 6, 2011 at 8:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
netloafer (anonymous) says...
Steve
I agree with on industrial development too. If we started concentrating on small, lean businesses who are more concerned with getting the skilled people the need to succeed rather than the manufacturers who look for low wage workers and tax abatements we might have a chance at retaining young college graduates locally and attracting even more from other places.
March 6, 2011 at 8:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
"... good medical facilities close by would make a nice place for retired people to consider."
Yes, Steve, absolutely. I've said this same thing for years, but like netloafer, when I suggest it to city fathers, they listen and nod politely. One thing they're good at is patronizing. It's disgusting. Yet as soon as issues heat up, the first thing they and their supporters say is "where are these "rabid dogs," and why aren't they at the meetings if they know so much?"
Trouble is, they have a heavy industry mindset. Attract heavy industry that pays poorly and give them tax abatements for ten years. Is this their way to keep the unskilled poor quiet? It's like a broken record.
We need to make this town have the very, very best medical facilities that will not only treat people well, but will attract the young professionals to work it. The population is growing older and we need to attract them with excellent services.
Yes, netloafer, and small, lean businesses that need a smaller skilled workforce would be just the ticket. Good comment.
Perhaps what we need is for a young college graduate to go to a meeting and address the commission personally to discuss the plight of retaining his or her kind in our town.
And while we're at it, let's look at the drop out rate at the high school.
Chris Walker, one well-written piece about the drop out rate just might do the trick. How about a series?
March 6, 2011 at 9:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
jasond,
I understand the frustration. It is shared by many young people who have graduated. And some who have been in the job market before.
Not knowing the discipline you have chosen for yourself it would be hard to comment.
ABC showing a great show on American made products.
In 1960 9 out of 10 of all products bought in America were American made. now it is less than 50%.
The prospects for you younger people are not anywhere near what they were in my youth. My children and grandchildren do not have a better life than I did growing up, that part of the American dream is fading.
I am not sure what it will take to get back on track, but I do know that young people have to become more involved in the political process.
If you don't, it will be a bunch of older people deciding YOUR future. And we haven't done such a good job of that the last 20 years or so.
March 6, 2011 at 9:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
In Sat. paper there was the article with pictures of 6 Emporia residents, asking what they thought of the city commission primary race. it sounded like only 1 or 2 of the 6 even voted and the others "didn't care".
I would be ashamed to death of my name and picture appearing in the paper along with a quote from me saying "I had never registered or voted in my life", or "I don't pay much attention to that stuff."
I'll say it as bluntly as I can. If the Gazette employee had purposely set out to find the biggest losers in this town, he sure found a few in that article.
and I can state my opinion because I voted.
.
March 6, 2011 at 9:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
jasond,
You may be our salvation and our next speaker at the city commission. We need you younger ones to go and discuss the plight of "stay, stay, stay." I like that idea of yours.
Emporia is a lovely little town and I love it dearly, but it does need some improvements to make it perfect. What is my favorite part about it? We are within ten minutes driving time of almost everything.
I was widowed only one year after moving to Emporia many years ago. I could have taken the kids back to Hawaii and lived there because that is home. But we all preferred to remain here. Good school for the kids, ESU for me, good, neighborly people. Why not Hawaii? Easy. Soaring crime rate, high rate of poverty, unaffordable housing, traffic jams galore, poor public schooling.
We have so many positives here in Emporia.
March 6, 2011 at 9:23 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Right on, Steve about the biggest loser being someone who did not vote. It's all a part of the brain drain I guess, and we need to battle that. I'll bet these losers are the first to complain about city services too.
March 6, 2011 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
barefooting (anonymous) says...
Newtoemporia, while you are looking at housing websites, can you find one that lists the foreclosures in emporia that are for sale? I cant seem to find one.
March 6, 2011 at 9:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
barefooting,
Here's something with several local listings:
http://emporia.lyon.ks.foreclosuredat...
March 6, 2011 at 10:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Steve, create, netloafer, etc.,
You have said exactly what I have have been saying for sometime now !
And that being, there are too many in Emporia that are obsessed with making Emporia a " Gotham City " at all costs ! I mean they are obsessed with idea of grow, grow, Industrialize, Industrialize, instead of improving on, what is the best quality of Emporia, its people and doing what is necessary to get them to stay in Emporia, what used to be a fairly low cost of living, low taxes, well kept ( repaired, maintained infrastructure ) and the willingness of the City leaders to listen to all of the people and make the right choices, decisions that would benefit " All of the people, even those who were just passing thru or visiting from anywhere. "
The biggest asset that any City, Country, State or County has, is its people, both young and old !
And in the last ten years Emporia has been losing its best attributes, its people, at an alarming rate ! Why ?
Lack of jobs, any jobs !
Tremendous City debt and tax burden !
High cost of living !
Bad decision making by City leaders !
Obsession with Growth, Industrialization and Wants instead of Needs !
I totally agree, If you don' t vote, don' t complain ! But I do understand, to a certain extent, why some people feel that their vote doesn' t seem to mean much and I have tried to convince them otherwise and have succeded with some, a few any way !
March 6, 2011 at 10:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
This one is a better one:
http://www.homefinder.com/KS/Emporia/...
March 6, 2011 at 10:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
solong (anonymous) says...
goodoleboy, you are absolutely right on everything you have said, it is very sad that so many of our brightest are forced to look for green pastures in the K.C. area but that is exactly what is happening and will continue to happen. I for one own homes both in K.C. and a farm near Emporia and will soon be faced with making a decision which place I will put down my final roots. I have a great deal of respect for my long time personal Dr. in Emporia and he has been excellent in treating me, but without a doubt, any major repairs I or my loved ones need are done elsewhere, that is our choice based on experience and trusted others. I would love to build another home on my land near Emporia, but 2 things are of great concern to me here, health care and taxes. We have a Johnson County Court House here, we just lack the rest of it.
March 6, 2011 at 12:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
barefooting (anonymous) says...
Thanks for the links Create.
March 6, 2011 at 1:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
This is the future:
http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2010/0...
Spend 100K to entice these folks and be willing to spend the money needed to make it a reality right here. Young professionals would be able to stay here and earn a great living.
March 6, 2011 at 1:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sail (anonymous) says...
Hmmm, wonder if the rda would mind a few uf us sitting in on the meetings they have, or would they invoke the "need to know "position on we the proletariat....
March 6, 2011 at 5:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Myself I enjoy going to flea markets and such but you can tell when a town is dying by all of the flea markets and second hand stores that start popping up. Another way is to see if a town has a historic downtown trying to lure people in. Has anyone notice these things happening in Emporia?
March 6, 2011 at 7:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Actually, I remember a post by Create's daughter(marketing type) regarding the denigration of Emporia and the advent of Payday loan type shops popping up here. She was correct in her assumptions, but hey the tourists will save us!
March 6, 2011 at 10:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Heads up there reddog:
http://money.cnn.com/2011/03/03/real_...
As I said before, real estate is overvalued. Basic Econ 101 supply exceeds demand...
Frame it however you want, the hosing will come, and those rich in overvalued properties.. prepare to bend over.
March 7, 2011 at 5:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
sail,
The RDA doesn' t want anyone to know what they are doing or how they are using taxpayer funds !
Doing so would be what is known as " Accountability and Transparency " , two things they definately do not wish to do !
This is they way they want it, as does the rest of the organizations that recieve taxpayer funds, as this gives them, what is known as " Plausible Deniability " !
As to what " Plausible Deniability is, see the following,
Plausible deniability refers to the denial of blame in loose and informal chains of command where upper rungs quarantine the blame to the lower rungs, and the lower rungs are often inaccessible, meaning confirming responsibility for the action is nearly impossible. In the case that illegal or otherwise disreputable and unpopular activities become public, high-ranking officials may deny any awareness of such act or any connection to the agents used to carry out such acts.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plausibl...
I would imagine, even the City Commission doesn' t even get or demand full disclosure from the RDA or other taxpayer funded organizations, full accountability / transparency as to use of taxpayer funds !
March 7, 2011 at 8:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Thanks for remembering my daughter's post, goodoleboy. That was quite some time ago. I often think of what she said about Emporia. It was her first trip home in many years after growing up here so she had fresh eyes. With her background in marketing, her opinion was valuable since she travels widely across the country reviewing areas for new store construction or placement.
She began taking mental notes as soon as she began nearing Emporia from the south, and saw many things that drew negative implication. I remember mentioning the Buxton study to her and she raised her eyebrows and asked why such a high dollar firm when a quick drive-by and a few interviews would tell the same tale.
That year, we stepped into Madelaine's to look around. We were greeted so coldly by Madelaine herself who sat by the door scowling. The place was empty. My daughter asked, "How the hell does this place survive?" A portentious comment indeed.
She'll be back again this summer to see her momma. I can't wait to share all the stories about the rocks.
Yeah, I agree with you on the tourist issue, goodoleboy. Yes indeed.
I still say we need to enlarge the airport.
March 7, 2011 at 8:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
I Don' t want to seem to sound so negative, but what does Emporia have that requires a large Airport, especially now at the present time ?
What with air fares and price of fuel getting outrageous, wouldn' t a R.R. passanger depot serve the immediate needs, almost as well or just as well, at the present time ?
And wouldn' t a R.R. passanger depot cost less than enlarging the airport ?
I, am trying to say is , If and when Emporia starts to recover and grow ... it would seem that then would be a more feasible time, to grow the airport as Emporia, prospers and grows ?
Has everyone forgotten that Emporia is already in debt to the tune of $ 41 million and possibly looking at adding $ 7 million to that debt via of Storm Water Drainage upgrades ! I also believe that in order to try and pay for at least part of that $ 7 million, you will see a push for another 1 or 2 cent sales tax enacted and a 1 or 2 dollar Rain Water Run Off fee added to everyones' already outrageous water, refuse fee !! And then there is the MS addition to have to pay for, the possible hiring of a City Planner, who will require at least a $ 65, 000 per year salary + Staff and staff salaries, etc., ?
The problem I see and it has always been a problem . Is the fact that people have visions of the future of Emporia, but what they fail to consider is the Price Tag of what the forcing Emporia toward the future will be ! Especially the cost of losing people to areas with a lower urden of taxes and a lower cost of living . In other words, there are those in Emporia that Want to force Emporia toward an uncertain future, no matter what it costs, even if it costs loss of people and needed revenue !
And you can believe that people will continue to leave Emporia, if the cost of living in Emporia continues to rise higher and higher !!
" And This Is, As The World Turns "
Just my observations and predictions, for the near future of Emporias taxpaying citizens !!
March 7, 2011 at 12:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
barefooting (anonymous) says...
Booker5, you forgot one other sign of a dying town, the city puts tombstones at the city entrances.
March 7, 2011 at 12:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Thanks for your thoughts, methusla. I didn't think we'd rush right out and build a bigger airport anytime soon, but it is something that needs to be considered in the future. Business people travel in and out of Emporia all the time. Air travel would save time, which to those who travel for a living, is precious. I'm not talking 747 big. Save that for the internationals.
March 7, 2011 at 1:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
I don't know why high speed rail always gets panned, I see that as the way to connect Emporia and towns like it to the metro areas
March 7, 2011 at 2:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgNuSE...
March 7, 2011 at 4:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
neighbor (anonymous) says...
Chalk up another empty building, I hear that Carlos Okellys is done.
March 7, 2011 at 5:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Time for the city leaders to rush to Vegas fine another fast food joint
March 7, 2011 at 5:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
That's terrible news about Carlos O'Kelly's. I was there not long ago and it was pretty busy. Strange. My gosh, that place has been there for a long time.
As restaurants go, I've been enjoying the new Chinese place, Lucky House where Yan Yan's used to be. Very good food and generous portions and a convenient drive up window.
March 7, 2011 at 5:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
barefooting (anonymous) says...
Remember Via Care being shut down? KVOE news shows the owner was sentenced to prison and ordered to pay 6 million in restitution for taking taxes from his employees checks and not turning the money over to right places. Via Care was also called Elf Support.
March 7, 2011 at 5:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
..
March 7, 2011 at 6:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Create,
Your daughter's conclusions were identical to some of my own, seeing some of the depressed neighborhoods in KC, Wichita and Topeka it was evident to me what was transpiring.
Sucks if that is true about Carlos O'Kelly's, although with the excellent authentic Mexican food we have in Emporia I can't say I will miss the food, still sad to see it go.
March 7, 2011 at 8:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scarlett01_98 (anonymous) says...
my favorite mexican rest was el palenque.....
March 7, 2011 at 8:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Pinkpintopony (anonymous) says...
Create says
"I was widowed only one year after moving to Emporia many years ago. I could have taken the kids back to Hawaii and lived there because that is home. But we all preferred to remain here. Good school for the kids, ESU for me, good, neighborly people. Why not Hawaii? Easy. Soaring crime rate, high rate of poverty, unaffordable housing, traffic jams galore, poor public schooling.
We have so many positives here in Emporia. "
I moved here to Emporia a little less than a year and a half ago. We came from a town of about 60,000 in Idaho, a town of 25,000 in Utah before that, 23,000 in Texas, and we lived in Connecticut and Charleston, South Carolina before that. Every place had it's ups and downs as far as things to do, tax rates, crime, cost of housing. I was born and raised in Idaho. When I left at 19, I never thought I would go back. 12 years later I did. I was happy to be home and never planned on leaving. My husband had a pretty sweet job there in Idaho and was offered a job in Burlington at Wolf Creek. We weren't even really looking to move. He loved the offer from Wolf Creek. I was mad. Kansas was never on my radar of places to live. We moved here with a 5 year plan to do what we had to do and leave and go back to the Northwest. I have since forgotten about the 5 year plan. I feel at home here in Emporia. I don't know what it is.....we have certainly lived in more desirable places. The taxes here are in the middle of what we have paid previously. Not the cheapest, but by far not the most expensive. Vehicle registration is a little insane. In Idaho they didn't meter our water....so I was a little taken a back by water costs here. In Utah vehicle registration was steep, but was good for 24 months and you didn't have to register ALL of your vehicles the same month. Gas and electric here in Emporia is some of the cheapest I have ever had. Emporia Main Street is the most active Main Street program I have ever seen. I'm not even sure where I am going with this.....I just wanted to say that I have had some experience living around the Country and I am enjoying Emporia. I see where improvements can be made....but it's not hopeless as some on these threads would have people believe. I really believe that we can only get better here in Emporia.
Thanks to all who have made Emporia a cool place to live!
March 7, 2011 at 11:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Pinktopony,
People are not resigned to think it is hopeless, most the people upset are that way because Emporia used to be A LOT cooler, the last decade has been brutal on this town, and not attributed to recession. Our problems started awhile back and continue with the juvenile mindset that tourism is our saving grace.
March 8, 2011 at 12:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
B.S.
just heard on the radio; supposedly the manager of carlos o'kelly's blamed their closing on the round abouts.
Your parking lot always seemed full at meal times,or was that just employee parking.?
Blame it on bad management, the economy, or all the new competition in town, but round abouts? get real.
March 8, 2011 at 6:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Pinkpintopony (anonymous) says...
Steve,
I thought that was a wonky excuse too! Could it be that their food just wasn't very good? Although I dunno, the parking lot was always quite full as you said.
March 8, 2011 at 6:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
The Irish traitors sided with Mexico against the US during the Mexican-American War so I refuse to patronize any Irish Mexican business and it's great to hear that corporate eatery from Acapulco bit the dust. Remember the Alamo!!!
March 8, 2011 at 7:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Did someone say something bad on the Agler thread?
March 8, 2011 at 7:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
yev_kassem (anonymous) says...
Yeah, I noticed several comments that were inappropriate in the Agler thread. I don't know why the Gazette doesn't just leave the thread up though, remove the "bad" comments, and ban the repeat offenders. By taking down the thread all together they prevent some of the good debates.
March 8, 2011 at 8:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
We've been spanked!
March 8, 2011 at 9:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Yeah, I agree with you, Yev, that taking down the entire thread is like throwing out the baby with the bath water; however, I do know that the Gazoo has a smaller staff now and they don't have someone to keep an eye on all the threads. Too bad.
I guess we'll never really know why Agler quit.
I'm with Steve on Carlos O'Kelley's. Their parking lot always seemed very full. Also, we have a lot of great authentic Mexican food in town that is made right in the kitchen using ingredients that are purchased locally and not trucked in from somewhere else. I like it that each Mexican restaurant has a style, Tex Mex, Calif Mex, even Arkansas Mex. All the sauces are different, and I love them all. My favorite? That little lean-to place down on East 6th.
Wish they were open for breakfast. I'm starving!!!
March 8, 2011 at 9:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
I am beginning to feel like one of Ashley's kids.
I want a new moderator !
uh, maybe not :>)
March 8, 2011 at 9:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Create,
As one person who disagreed quite frequently with Commissioner Agler, I will have to say his announcement last night was pretty classy.
It was just his time.
I know he will enjoy his retirement from the commission, and all the resulting "roast" posts on these threads that came from his service.
The way some on here, (me Included) have torn into the candidates, it's a wonder why anyone would want to put up with it.
March 8, 2011 at 9:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I'm guessing these guys can't help but think, "damned if you do and damned if you don't." It's like being president. No matter what you do, even the good stuff, the other side will give you a "shellacking" as our own president admitted not long ago.
When I was teaching, similar things happened to me. I had a reputation for being fair, and I was never one to turn kids in for every little thing. I opted instead for a quick conference on the spot and a call home if necessary. Sometimes, however, the infraction was more serious and I would have to turn a kid in to the office. As soon as that happened, many kids didn't think I was fair anymore and I became the enemy.
As in everything else, you just have to do what you think is right, and the same is true with being on the commission. However, when the decision involves a good deal of money, the tax payer should be consulted.
March 8, 2011 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
doubt_it (anonymous) says...
I, for one, will miss Carlos O'Kelly's. I really liked their food. To blame the closing on the round-about is really lame, though.
March 8, 2011 at 12:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
neighbor (anonymous) says...
The roundabout excuse was laughable.
March 8, 2011 at 5:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodjoss (anonymous) says...
Well, Carlos Okelly's manager would have the year to year sales data to compare with the opening of the roundabouts.
The excuse seems weak to me, but I've got to say - The Emporia roundabouts direct traffic directly onto I-35. It's almost difficult to try to get to west 50 if you're not thinking about it. And I'm and Emporia lifer. I'd hate to think about a visitor.
No matter where we travel, I can't tell you how often we pull off the road to 'go through town to find something to eat'. Be honest - in Emporia, that's kind of hard to do now.
Same thing w/ Ottawa. It's almost hard to get off US 59 to go through town now. And Ottawa is a nice town to drive through, too. I wonder how long El Mezcal will last.
March 12, 2011 at 4:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
alfalfa (anonymous) says...
I've been away from the forums for several days. What's going on?
I see we can't comment on anything that has anything to do with Steve Sauder. Very convenient. Looks like signing your name is one thing, taking criticism for what you say is another.
March 13, 2011 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I didn't see the comment involved, but apparently someone who isn't a regular on the forums, posted a particularly rank comment directed toward Steve Sauder. I don't know this for certain, just what others have said.
At the same time, posters themselves have been been called "rabid dogs" by a letter writer to the Gaz. There are degrees of nastiness and their inherent results I suppose.
March 13, 2011 at 11:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
create and alfalfa,
I don't want to come across as defending Sauder or the gazette. But the comment poster WAS anonymous and the post was "rank", not to mention slanderous.. And I don't think the poster would have said it if their name was known. As it is, the Gazette probably saved the poster from a lawsuit.
The letter writer did sign her name to her letter and wasn't quite so "rank" I kinda enjoy being thought of as a rabid dog. Keeps people on their toes.
I think things will work out and we will be able to post under the story section again. I've talked to more than a few who have said they enjoy reading these things.
But we, (me), are going to have to follow the rules of this forum.
March 13, 2011 at 12:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I agree about following the rules, Steve. Just makes good sense really.
True about the rabid dogs. Like you, I don't mind belonging to the RDS, or Rabbit Dog Society. That title occurred to me a few days ago and it sounded kinda cool. Someone else mentioned t-shirts. The cartoon I found showed a guy with a couple of vicious dogs on leashes and saying that the dogs were his "negotiating tools."
March 13, 2011 at 2:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
How about the following for a T-shirt logo for all of us angry, forum posters !!
http://rlv.zcache.com/angry_poster-p2...
March 13, 2011 at 4:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
p.s.
Saying something like, " I' M NOT RABID JUST ANGRY
March 13, 2011 at 4:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sail (anonymous) says...
Thanks Cris,will try to play nice.
March 14, 2011 at 10:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )