MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Hutchinson City Council addressed a full agenda during its Tuesday evening meeting, taking action on unsafe properties, subdivision regulations, and long-term infrastructure planning.
Following public hearings on 10 properties deemed dangerous and unsafe, the council voted to condemn three structures located at 806 North Plum, 22 West 5th, and 411 South Main. A fourth property at 211 East Fourth was also condemned, but city staff noted the owner had already secured a demolition permit.
One property, 1321 East Fourth, remains on the city’s watch list. Although still considered hazardous, the city will monitor progress rather than immediately pursue condemnation.
The remaining five properties—401 and 405 South Main, 2100 North Jackson, 3001 East Fourth, and 1221 East Fourth—were tabled until the Oct. 7 council meeting.
In a separate matter, the council narrowly approved a replat of the Plum Creek subdivision, allowing sidewalks on only one side of the street. The 3-2 vote saw Councilmembers Jon Richardson, Steve Garza, and Scott Meggers in favor, while Mayor Stacy Goss and Councilmember Greg Fast opposed.
City regulations typically require sidewalks on both sides in new subdivisions, but the Planning Commission granted a variance for Plum Creek. The replat also revises pedestrian and utility easements near Plum Creek Elementary.
City Manager Enrico Villegas reminded the council that a 2024 development agreement with Strawn Homes had promised sidewalks on both sides. Developer Jim Strawn cited higher-than-expected infrastructure costs as the reason for the change, noting home prices could range from $225,000 to $400,000, with some assistance from Reno County incentives.
The council also discussed timing for a proposed 0.75% sales tax referendum, with Villegas recommending a spring ballot instead of November to allow for more thorough preparation.
In other business, the council repealed an ordinance restricting truck traffic on Apple Lane, following the completion of a new bridge capable of supporting heavy vehicles.
The council rejected both proposals submitted for Memorial Hall. One was deemed incomplete, while the other—a proposed $10 million “Unconvention Hall” backed by local business owners and Councilmember Richardson—was considered too expensive amid current budget constraints.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for Aug. 19.