City of Shawnee

The board received updates regarding new staffing and the reopening of the Community Center, which has resumed its meals program and fitness classes. Action was taken to approve funding from the Pottawatomie Sales Tax Expenditure for newspaper subscriptions. Additionally, the board discussed its charter and purpose to facilitate future goal setting and received positive community feedback. Committee comments included plans for potential collaboration with OBU students and reminders regarding food donations.

The committee discussed and approved the 2024 schedule for regular meetings. An update was provided on the Woodland Park Opening Ceremony, specifically regarding donations, entertainment, and food vendors. Staff members presented information on various upcoming and recent community events, including the Golden Swing Party, seasonal celebrations, and career fairs. Additionally, the committee inquired about further scheduling for Woodland Park activities.

The committee received updates on various park projects, including debris removal at Woodland Park, operations at Splash, and the status of the Splash Pad at Boyscout park which remains closed due to flood damage. Staff also reported on successful activities at the Recreation and Community Centers and the installation of new security and waste amenities. The committee discussed creating a subcommittee to review and propose changes to park rules and ordinances. Additionally, a citizen inquiry regarding the status of YMCA ball fields was addressed, with staff noting pending insurance and FEMA claims.

The Board conducted several public hearings regarding variance requests. Approvals were granted for a street frontage reduction to allow residential development at 611 S. Philadelphia Avenue, the placement of a library kiosk in the front yard of 2705 N. Harrison Avenue, a side yard setback reduction for properties at 3923 and 3925 Maple Grove Avenue, a five-year extension for repaving requirements at 531 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, a reduction in parking spaces for group homes at 502-510 S. Kickapoo Avenue, and a street frontage reduction to allow home construction at 15350 Walker Road. Additionally, the Board received an overview and training session regarding duties and authority, as well as an update on the Unified Development Code.

The committee received staff updates regarding the success of the Splash Hiring Event, which resulted in 27 hires. Program updates included reports on the Spring Break Kids Camp, March Madness activities, and a senior pool tournament. Key discussions involved preparations for the Kidspace Park re-opening, including potential sponsorships and advertising strategies. The committee also reviewed the status of a draft for new park rules and addressed citizen participation concerns regarding landscaping maintenance and recognition for committee efforts.