By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The two items for Thursday's Hays City Commission work session involve city parks.
The Arc of Central Plains is requesting approval to proceed with Phase 3 improvements at ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest.
Those improvements would include new shelter houses, a gazebo and permanent cornhole courts.
The Arc of Central Plains would pay the estimated $500,000 costs. If the commission approves moving forward with Phase 3, Parks Director Jeff Boyle would monitor the construction phase.
Another ask is coming to the commission from the Heartland Community Foundation Youth Action Council.
The group wants permission to install painted fiberglass bison statues in the city, including some public spaces.
This is a countywide initiative involving the four high schools and funded entirely by donations.
Local and student artists would paint up to 25 life-size statues to reflect the community’s heritage and history.
The bison are intended for high-visibility public and private locations that draw attention and encourage visitors to explore nearby businesses and attractions. Maps, walking tours and social media campaigns would guide visitors, generating foot traffic and economic activity, according to the proposal.
The complete Sept. 18 agenda is available here.
The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.