Contributing writer
Tampa City Council adopted a resolution March 1, to join the Kansas PRIDE program. The Rev. Clark Davis of Tampa Community Association told the council that the best way to raise money for improvement projects is by joining the PRIDE program.
Marion County Economic Development Director Teresa Huffman presented information from Kansas Department of Health and Environment about grants available for equipment. Huffman is willing to write grant applications if the council is interested. The council was asked if it wanted to continue a Web site.
A Newton business is willing to donate $100 for the Santa Fe Trail fest.
Gary Spohn asked if the city would be willing to take over the maintenance of the bathrooms at the ballpark since the Lions Club had disbanded. The community association volunteered to take care of the concession stand and to clean the bathrooms during ball games and tournaments. The council approved the arrangement.
Grant writer Rosemary Saunders of Ranson Financial Consultants, coordinator of the sewer grant, presented bills for payment including $6,404 to Kacey Nickel and $14,000 and $4,000 to APAC Kansas Shears Division
The council also approved $584 for a new unit for a refrigerator.
Mayor Tim Svoboda told the council that Anna Mae Stika had cleaned the refrigerator at the time it was repaired and suggested asking if she would defrost the freezer. The council approved the recommendation with an additional cost of $40.
Errant balls coming over a fence at the ballfield continues to be a concern.
“We spent $400 on a net,” Paul Backhus said. “I still think if we get a cable to hold it up firmly, the net would help.”
Concerns were expressed about children being injured by the stray balls.
A special kind of softball that doesn’t travel as far will be considered and discussed at the next council meeting.
A time for residents to meet with county officials will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday at Tampa Senior Center.
Since daylight saving time begins Sunday, the April council meeting will begin at 8 p.m.