REC requests temporary building, infield downsizing
A temporary building on blocks was among projects proposed to Marion City Commission Monday by Margo Yates, director of Marion Recreation Commission.
A 10-by-12-foot building on cinder blocks with mobile home-type tie downs may be allowed on city property in the southwest corner of D field at Marion Baseball Complex. The building, constructed by a class at Marion High School, would be used to house equipment.
She also requested the city's assistance in reducing the size of the infields on A, B, and C fields, which also would include reducing a ridge in the infield. Improvements also could include re-sodding the field in the fall.
Yates said the commission had invested in materials for the field to assure continued use of the fields especially after rains.
City street superintendent Marty Fredrickson said the city enlarged the infields a few years ago per the request of REC personnel. Yates said that was under different management and now the commission wants the infields smaller.
"When it rains, it turns to 'goo'," said Yates. However games are able to be played because red shale is used on the fields.
Mayor Martin Tice instructed Yates to return to the commission with drawings and cost estimates.
Yates also reported a 29-team basketball tournament had been played this past weekend and another will be played Feb. 25. A final session of indoor soccer will be played Saturday.
Jami Williams, economic development director, reported she had researched interest rates for city CDs and money market accounts, completed a feasibility study for a community daycare, attended a comprehensive planning meeting, attended a Kansas Economic Development Association meeting with city administrator David Mayfield in Topeka, spent city funds for a full page advertisement in the Hillsboro Free Press, and is assisting two businesses interested in locating to Marion.
In other business:
— Fredrickson reported maintenance was conducted on city vehicles, a transformer was ordered to replace one at the ball field, and services were being provided to a new house on South Lincoln Street.
— A letter was sent to John Stultz regarding the removal of a garage after a dilapidated house was razed. City attorney Dan Baldwin will contact Stultz for a completion date.
— A trail meeting was held to discuss the completion of a trail within the city.
The next commission meeting is at 4 p.m. Monday.
