During the recent Atchison City Commission meeting held on October 21, 2024, significant decisions were made regarding local projects and community involvement. The meeting primarily focused on the rejection of a bid related to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for park improvement projects, alongside the appointment of a new member to the planning commission.

The commission voted to reject the current bid for the CDBG LFM park improvement projects and authorized the mayor to request a 90-day extension. This decision reflects the city’s commitment to ensuring that the projects meet community needs and standards before moving forward. The motion was passed unanimously, indicating strong support among the commissioners for this cautious approach.

In addition to the bid discussion, the commission appointed Derek Franklin to the planning commission to fill an unexpired term ending July 31, 2025. Franklin was the sole applicant for this position, and his appointment was also met with unanimous approval. This move is significant as it helps maintain the functionality of the planning commission, which plays a crucial role in guiding the city’s development and land use policies.

Mayor McNamee highlighted the need for more community involvement, noting several other openings on various boards, including the Board of Code Review and the Park and Forestry Board. The mayor encouraged residents to consider volunteering for these positions, emphasizing the importance of local engagement in city governance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s proactive stance on managing community projects and fostering civic participation. As the city moves forward with its plans, the involvement of residents will be vital in shaping the future of Atchison.