Historic District Gets $370K in Funding

The City Council for Haysville, KS, at their February 12 meeting, approved $370,000 for the Historic District to make a list of improvements. The decision was met with applause from the committee members in the audience. A computer presentation, with a 3-D graphical map, went over the improvements that have been planned, including a gazebo, an entryway arch, a marketplace structure, and new lighting to match the lighting along the Hike and Bike Trail. A number of improvements to the Wire House are also planned, and it is hoped that the building will be used to showcase local artists. The plan for the entire park is for it to eventually be self-sustaining.

There were some concerns expressed by Council members regarding so much money being allocated to do these projects all at once. As Keith Pierce asked, "Can we afford to do this and not hinder other things like capital improvements, things that are needs?" Ken Hampton shared his concern, and Joe Holub suggested stretching the projects out over the next five to six years. Bill Youngers commented, however, that the City didn't seem to be getting these projects done in a timely fashion. Mayor Bruce Armstrong pointed out that the projects were not bonded yet, and the reserve money that was originally set aside for the new Senior Center was available for use.

"We want to grow our tax base," Armstrong added. "If we grow the city's value, we can afford bigger bonds without raising the mil levy."

"It's about as economical a structure as can be built," stated Youngers.