Allen County commissioners joined an effort Tuesday morning to provide a fitness center for Moran.
Thrive Allen County is preparing a grant application to the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City, seeking about $30,000 to buy exercise equipment. Commissioners approved use of the Allen County Regional Hospital clinic building in downtown Moran for the center, and agreed to pay utility costs.
“I talked to Tony Thompson (ACRH administrator) and he is fine with the plan,” said David Toland, Thrive executive director. It would revert to hospital control if needed.
A recent survey sent with Moran utility bills indicated “significant demand” for a fitness center, he added.
“Looks like a no-brainer to me,” said Commissioner Tom Williams.
Commissioner Jim Talkington asked about a storm shelter. The building isn’t designed to accommodate one, Toland said, but took the suggestion to heart. “A good idea,” he said, with ample room in the area.
If the grant succeeds and the building is refitted with exercise equipment, Toland said it could become a “hub for health-related activities in Moran with trails possibly being developed nearby.”
“So many people in Moran are excited about it,” said a resident, Nelda Cuppy.
Next step is for Moran Council members to sign off on the grant application.
COMMISSIONERS put off until next week a decision on whether to place sophisticated surveillance cameras on the courthouse, to give precise video images of the square and activities within several blocks.
Sheriff Bryan Murphy said he would spend $24,000 to put two cameras, servers and other support equipment at the law enforcement center, and that additional cameras could be mounted on the west end of the courthouse. “Those two would cost another $10,000,” he said, with commissioners to decide whether to dip into general fund money for their installation.
“Part of me says it’s Big Brother watching,” Commissioner Tom Williams said. “But, it also would be an advantage if a crime occurred.”
“I’ve gotten more calls (four total) about this than anything else,” said Commissioner Jim Talkington. “They were all against it.” Commissioner Jerry Daniels said he also had had constituents question the cost.
Williams moved to take the comprehensive approach with four cameras. When a second wasn’t forthcoming, the decision was put off a week.
DEBBIE BEARDEN was given permission to continue with plans for a Dinner and Dialogue event on the courthouse square the evening of June 21.
Bearden said the Kansas Rural Center would send a delegation to prompt discussion of food production and associated topics. A similar event here in 2013 drew 50 participants.
