County zoning regulations may hinder city s development
Marion City Commission and city officials are not in favor of proposed county zoning changes.
The commission discussed the impact Monday of three residential structures on one acre of land near city limits.
"It could lock in the city for future development," said David Mayfield, city administrator.
Mayor Martin Tice agreed that it was a major concern.
"One or two acres could be ruined for subdivision development," said Tice.
Commissioner Max Hayen said before any development occurs in the city's urban influence area, the county should notify the city.
"Counties and cities are worlds apart when it comes to zoning," said Hayen.
Tice said the cities were supposed to have some input in development of urban influence areas.
"This may go to the wayside if this proposal is implemented," said Tice.
City attorney Dan Baldwin said there were models of joint city and county planning commissions he could use to design one for Marion County and Marion city.
Tice instructed Mayfield to talk with county zoning administrator David Brazil about land-lock issues.
Baldwin said he would provide additional information to the commission about a joint commission.
In other business:
— The city will consider being the custodian of a walking/biking trail within the city limits.
Alex Case and Mickey Lundy of Marion presented information about a trail that would begin east of Marion City Library at Library and South Third streets.
Case said he had made contact with Ron Peters of Central Kansas Conservancy who claim to be owners of part of the four-mile proposed trail.
The CKC is willing to provide a lease for the portion of land they claim but the city needs to be the custodian of the trail.
Case said the trail would start simple — clear brush and use a front-end loader to make a trail. If the trail is utilized sufficiently to require more construction, that will be addressed at that time.
He also would like to see the dike incorporated with the trail and has received permission from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to use it. Mayfield suggested a written agreement with the Corps. The City of Salina received an agreement with the Corps for a trail, said Hayen.
Commissioner Jim Crofoot asked the city's liability. Case said the owners of the property were ultimately responsible.
Hayen said the city also owns some of the property, and some was deeded to Cooperative Grain & Supply and Flaming's Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning.
The city of Lindsborg has a lease agreement with CKC and Tice suggested Baldwin review it for Marion.
— Peggy Blackman presented information regarding continued efforts of WRAP (Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy Project). She said she was "very concerned" about funds being available for continued best management practices programs.
Participation from farmers and producers, and county and city entities is needed to provide matching grant funds. Federal grant funds cannot be used as matching funds for other federal grants, said Blackman.
Recent remarks by a county resident at a state meeting concerned Blackman because the individual was not aware of efforts being made to improve and maintain water quality at Marion Reservoir. She indicated these remarks may influence future state funding for the project.
Blackman will be on the agenda Monday with Marion County Commission to discuss options.
— A resolution was approved to hold a public hearing at 4 p.m. Dec. 5, regarding property at 110 S. Lincoln Street, Marion. The hearing will determine if the house should be demolished or repaired.
— Mayfield reported a committee had narrowed the field of candidates to two for the city's economic development position. The applicants will participate in an assessment center Nov. 17.
— Harvey Sanders, city public utilities superintendent, reported water on electrical connections caused the traffic light at Main and Freeborn streets to malfunction. The light has been repaired and appears to be functioning properly.
— Warrants for $18,589 and payroll for $23,484 were approved.
— An executive session for 20 minutes was requested by Mayfield for attorney-client privilege. The meeting resumed with no decisions.
The next commission meeting will be at 4 p.m. Monday in the city building.
