MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Hutchinson City Council approved several key community development projects during its Tuesday evening meeting, including a new residential neighborhood, park improvements, and a facility upgrade at the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.
New Neighborhood near 11th and Hendricks
Council members voted unanimously to approve a proposal from Garibay Properties LLC to develop 10.9 acres near 11th Avenue and Hendricks into a new residential neighborhood. The development will feature 30 single-family homes, each on lots of at least 9,000 square feet.
Before the vote, City Manager Enrico Villegas thanked the council for having the foresight to purchase the property, saying their investment allowed the city to seize this new opportunity for housing growth.
The city and Garibay Properties will now begin working on a development agreement outlining project details and timelines.
Free-Range Cat Room at Animal Shelter
In another unanimous vote, the council awarded WDM Architects the contract to design and oversee construction of a free-range cat room at the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.
Michaela Schommer, Director of Animal Services, explained that the new room will enhance the quality of life for cats and increase adoption rates by allowing potential adopters to observe the cats’ personalities in an open, interactive environment.
Funding for the project will come entirely from the Gossage Trust, a city-held trust designated for improvements to the animal shelter — meaning no taxpayer funds will be used.
Fairgrounds Park Playground Update
The city council also approved moving forward with the Fairgrounds Park playground replacement project at a reduced cost.
The city was able to cut costs from $161,818 to $141,183 by taking on some site preparation work internally, including installing the crushed gravel base beneath the playground’s poured-in-place rubber surface.
The revised cost falls below the city’s $150,000 budget, and the project was approved unanimously.
Creation of Parks and Forestry Board
Finally, council members voted unanimously to establish a new Parks and Forestry Board, which will replace the existing Tree Board.
The new board will advise on park matters, capital improvements, community beautification, and urban forestry while engaging residents in planning discussions about public spaces.
The board will include five voting members and two non-voting ex-officio members—one from the Hutchinson Zoo and another from the Hutchinson Public Art Design Council.
The next meeting of the Hutchinson City is scheduled for Nov. 4.