City tables decision about developer position
Staff reporter
The two-member Marion City Commission could not come to a consensus regarding an economic development director.
Commissioner Jim Crofoot said he "liked the fact the county was on-board" with the hiring of a full-time director but was not sure if the city needed a full-time person.
"I'm a little torn," Crofoot explained. He wants it budgeted for next year but is not ready to hire someone in the coming weeks.
On the other side of the issue, mayor Martin Tice said it was past time to do something and wanted a commitment made.
Tice then made a recommendation to hire a director within the next six months.
Crofoot said he would like to wait until the third commissioner is appointed before making any decisions.
City administrator David Mayfield said in his opinion it would take a $90,000-$95,000 budget for the position and department. He suggested an office in the commission room be utilized for the position.
Retail sales tax revenue could fund the position, he added.
Mayfield also reported he had contacted the city's bond agent and bond attorney for the industrial park bond. City sales tax revenue covers the bond payments. The remainder of the sales tax revenue can be used for economic development purposes. However, after two years, the city will have to find a different funding source.
He also reported he had contacted Mickey Dean-Fornaro, Harvey County Economic Development Director. She suggested funding be long-term — a minimum of 10 years.
Members of the city's economic development advisory board also made comments.
Eloise Mueller said the suggestion of a development position had been made to the commission and Mayfield individually.
"We've got to do something," Mueller said.
Nick Nickelson said he has had conversations with Kansas Department of Commerce and was told it could be 18 months before progress could be seen.
"We have to have jobs and growth in the community," Nickelson added.
Board member Andy Hanson questioned the purpose of the board without a director.
"Mickey recommends we not be in a hurry," Mayfield said. "It may take six months before the position is filled."
In other business:
— County commissioner Dan Holub addressed the commission regarding curb, gutter, and overlay on Eisenhower Drive.
The county and the city each own about a half mile of street.
"The cost for the total project could run a million dollars," Holub said.
He added the county commission would be willing to participate with the city if there were grant funds or alternative funding sources available.
— The city continues to wait for permit approval from Kansas Department of Health & Environment for water plant upgrades.
Mayfield said the city and its engineers cannot move forward with the project until a permit is approved.
— City attorney Dan Baldwin reported discussion of a contract between the city and Hett Construction will be tabled until next week.
— Warrants for $24,550 and payroll for $24,863 were approved.
