Marina
The City of Emporia is currently evaluating a proposed fee system intended to fund long-overdue stormwater infrastructure improvements.
During a recent study session, City Engineer Jim Ubert introduced a plan based on an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) structure.
This model, customized for Emporia, aims to provide a fair and sustainable funding method to address the city’s $18 million backlog in stormwater projects.
According to Ubert, the city has resorted to short-term “band-aid” fixes due to the absence of a dedicated revenue stream. The new ERU fee structure would ensure that the city can tackle these challenges holistically over time.
Commissioners Debate School District Inclusion
The proposal received broad support from most commissioners, except Commissioner Susan Brinkman, who expressed concern over the financial impact on USD 253 Emporia Public Schools.
Under the current structure, the school district would be expected to pay more than $750 per month, totaling over $9,000 annually.
Brinkman warned that these costs might have to be covered by reallocating classroom resources, which she opposes.
Ubert acknowledged her concerns but stressed that exempting the district would shift the burden onto other property owners. The proposal remains under review and is expected to be discussed further in the next regular action meeting.
Breakdown of Proposed ERU Fee Structure
Below is a table summarizing the estimated monthly and yearly contributions based on property type:
| Property Type | ERU Rate | Monthly Total | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-family (≤ 1,500 sq. ft.) | 0.5 x 8039 | $4,019.50 | $48,234.00 |
| Single-family (≥ 1,501 sq. ft.) | 1 x 1522 | $1,522.00 | $18,264.00 |
| Apartments (3,000 units) | 0.5 x 3000 | $1,500.00 | $18,000.00 |
| Converted Apartments (613 units) | 0.5 x 613 | $306.50 | $3,678.00 |
| Mobile Home Parks (769 units) | 0.5 x 769 | $384.50 | $4,614.00 |
| Commercial/Industrial (impervious areas) | 57,967,308 ÷ 3,000 | $19,322.44 | $231,869.28 |
| Total | $27,054.94 | $324,659.28 |
New Task Force Proposed to Explore Tax Solutions
In another segment of the Wednesday session, the Commission approved the concept of a joint task force involving city, county, school district, and Emporia Recreation Commission (ERC) representatives. The goal is to identify ways to lower the combined mill levy, which is currently higher than in many similar municipalities.
Deputy City Manager Mark Detter suggested that introducing a new sales tax could offset property tax obligations. These funds would cover project costs, reducing reliance on taxpayer dollars and, ultimately, the mill levy.
Task Force Structure and Objectives
If approved by all parties, the 11-member task force would include:
- 2 representatives each from the City of Emporia, Lyon County, USD 253, and ERC
- 3 additional members:
- One from a City of Third Class in Lyon County
- One Township Board Trustee
- One USD 253 patron
The task force aims to present an initial report by January 2026, following further discussion and coordination in the coming months.
Tourism Investment: New Sports Courses at Champions Landing
Earlier in the day, during its action session, the commission also approved a capital support agreement with Dynamic Brewing LLC. The agreement includes an allocation of $53,950 from the transient guest tax (TGT) for constructing three disc-golf and one foot-golf course at Champions Landing.
These new facilities will be free to all local residents and students at Emporia State University and Flint Hills Technical College. While some have criticized the use of TGT funds, City Manager Trey Cocking emphasized that disc golf is a significant tourism driver, and the TGT is legally designated for tourism-related projects.
Cocking also stated that Champions is the only local business to have proposed such an initiative recently, encouraging others to come forward with creative ideas to boost tourism.
Next Commission Meeting
The next Emporia City Commission meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 4 at 11 a.m. in the Municipal Courtroom at White Auditorium.
Emporia is taking proactive steps to address its long-standing stormwater infrastructure issues and reduce the local tax burden. Through a proposed ERU fee structure and a multi-agency task force, the city is seeking long-term solutions that are both equitable and sustainable. Community involvement and innovative ideas remain key to shaping Emporia’s future.