Development News for Parsons, Kansas

Appreciation Expressed for Community Services and Memorial Event

Commissioner Eric commended Labette Health for providing free lunches to children at the middle school and thanked the Chamber of Commerce for hosting the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Douglas School Memorial. He noted the good turnout for the memorial event, including former students. Commissioner Tom also provided an update on the school board's upcoming vote regarding storm shelter accessibility, encouraging public input.

Vandalism Damages Forest Park Railroad; Traffic Calming Planned for Downtown

During staff comments, Jeff reported that a vehicle fleeing from deputies caused damage to the mini railroad track system in Forest Park. The estimated repair cost is not to exceed $25,000, and materials are available for a four-to-five-day repair by city staff. The driver has been apprehended and charged. Additionally, ongoing downtown project discussions include traffic calming measures like speed platforms at Main and 18th Streets, designed to slow down speeding vehicles without being traditional speed bumps. The city is also working on a phone system upgrade to capture savings for the police department.

Commissioner Suggests Reactivating School Zone Lights During Summer; Extra Rail Material Praised

Commissioner Eric expressed concern that the 20 mph school zone lights were turned off during the summer, despite ongoing school activities like sports conditioning and practices. He suggested turning them back on during mornings, noting that slowing down for a few blocks would not significantly impact commute times. The commissioners discussed that the school zone lights are typically activated upon request from the school and are currently flashing. The discussion also touched upon the city's foresight in ordering extra rail material for the mini railroad track system in Forest Park, which proved beneficial when damage occurred.

Commissioner Urges Action on Keeping Storm Shelters Open

Commissioner Tom urged residents and the commission to advocate for keeping public storm shelters open, as the school board was set to vote on the matter. He highlighted concerns about citizens being denied access to shelters they helped fund through taxes. Tom argued that FEMA training requirements are not federally mandated for local agencies and suggested exploring automated systems for shelter access during emergencies. He cited that 11 out of 15 surveyed cities in southeast Kansas have publicly accessible storm shelters. Commissioner Burlam confirmed the school board meeting is scheduled for the following Monday at 6:00 PM and encouraged public attendance and contact with school board members.