By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The planned redevelopment of 1012 Main St. in downtown Hays into Airbnb units on the upper floor is expected to move one step further at Thursday's Hays City Commission meeting.
In September, local developer Tim Speno, One Twenty Seven Investments, was awarded a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) through the Kansas Department of Commerce as part of its Commercial Rehabilitation program.
In order for the funds to be disbursed, a contract must be entered into between the city of Hays and the Kansas Department of Commerce. Commissioners will vote on the contract at their Thursday meeting.
Speno must match the grant with $90,626 for the total project cost.
The lower level of the building is the site of Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, which will remain open.
Rezoning request
Jesse Rohr, public works director, will review a rezoning request by owner Rita Gottschalk for a portion of her property at 3124 E. 27th St. from neighborhood conservation district to light industrial district.
Nearby land uses are transitioning toward light industrial, Rohr said.
Golf course Pro Shop contract
The current manager at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course Pro Shop, Jeremy Coulter, will not be renewing his contract with the city when it expires on Dec. 31.
Parks Director Jeff Boyle has worked with Hays Recreation Commission Executive Director Matt Cook on a contract that would allow Hays Recreation to take over operations of the Pro Shop.
The Hays Recreation Commission currently oversees operation of the aquatic facilities, ballfields and Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.
Commissioners are expected to approve the contract change Thursday.
Vacate utility easement
A request has been made to vacate a utility easement within the G.S.L. Addition Replat at 3300 Vine St. The property is occupied by Westlake Hardware, Hobby Lobby and Furniture Outlet and Clearance Center, which are requesting that the remaining easement be vacated to eliminate an unnecessary encumbrance on the property title.
The former Walmart building was constructed over the easement area in 1984.
R9 water supply resolution
At the request of David Vilaysing, city commissioner, a resolution is expected to be signed that would express the governing body's intent to use water available through the R9 Ranch water supply in a "judicious, efficient, sustainable and economically beneficial manner."
City employee recognition
City employees with 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 35 years of service will be recognized.
Mayoral appointment
Commissioners will vote on Mayor Mason Ruder's appointment of Angelica Southard of the Hilton Garden Inn to a three-year term on the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee.
Wilson Pool tour
The commission will tour Wilson Pool at 3 p.m., prior to its regular meeting.
The Hays Recreation Commission closed the neighborhood pool in early June due to maintenance issues.
The complete Oct. 22 Hays City Commission agenda is available here. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.