Marina
In a pivotal decision that followed nearly two years of deliberation, the Emporia City Commission has officially approved a development agreement with Stormont Vail Health for a new medical office facility.
The action was taken during the Commission’s regular meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, signaling a major step forward in expanding Emporia’s healthcare infrastructure.
Project Overview
The development will involve a multi-million dollar medical office building constructed on a 17-acre tract between Roads 180 and G. The deal comes with several provisions designed to balance new growth while protecting existing healthcare services.
| Project Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 17-acre parcel between Roads 180 and G |
| Developer | Stormont Vail Health |
| Facility Type | Medical Office Building |
| Prohibition Clause | No ambulatory surgical services for 6 years |
| Infrastructure Commitments | On-site infrastructure, traffic study, new city street, stormwater improvements |
| Contribution to City Projects | $250,000 toward 18th & G improvements |
| Construction Start | Pending final plat approval on June 18 |
Key Terms of the Agreement
Six-Year Ban on Ambulatory Surgical Services
One of the most debated aspects of the agreement is the six-year prohibition on providing ambulatory surgical services at the new facility. This provision was added in response to public concerns and objections from Newman Regional Health, which operates locally.
Mayor Erren Harter clarified that once the six-year period expires, a review will be required before any surgical operations can begin. “Just because the prohibition ends, doesn’t mean automatic approval,” Harter stated. He added that the healthcare landscape may look drastically different by then.
Stormont Vail’s Responsibilities
Stormont Vail Health will:
- Construct and finance all on-site infrastructure improvements.
- Conduct a traffic impact study.
- Build a new city street and stormwater system linking the complex to the DeBauge Family Sports Complex.
- Contribute $250,000 for future improvements to the 18th and G intersection.
Additionally, the city agreed to review all development applications in good faith and collaborate on public infrastructure planning.
Public and Institutional Reactions
Both Stormont Vail Health and Newman Regional Health acknowledged the community’s active involvement.
- Newman CEO Cathy Pimple expressed gratitude:“Thank you for standing with us. We remain committed to building a healthier future for all.”
- Stormont Vail Health stated:“This new facility gives us a great location for our 85 employees, including 16 providers, to continue delivering high-quality care to more than 15,000 Lyon County residents.”
City Manager Trey Cocking also highlighted the challenge of striking a balance:
“In over two decades of public service, this has been the hardest policy issue I have faced.”
What Happens Next?
While the development agreement has been approved, construction cannot begin yet. The final greenlight depends on the approval of the final plat during the next Commission meeting scheduled for June 18.
Other City Commission Business
The June 4 meeting covered a wide range of other important decisions:
Fire Department Projects
- $6 million remodel and expansion of Fire Station 2 approved.
- Preliminary design for Fire Station 1 (William L. White Auditorium) initiated.
Sacred Heart Church Utility Deal
- Approved agreement with the Archdiocese of Kansas City to abandon a utility easement and transfer related property ownership to Sacred Heart Church.
New Utility Structure & City Ordinance Update
- Approved new stormwater utility ERU system for dedicated revenue.
- Updated the city’s chicken ordinance (vote passed 4-1).
Community and Budget Initiatives
- Discussed an art installation at White Memorial Park.
- Began early talks on the 2026 budgeting process.
The Emporia City Commission’s approval of the Stormont Vail Health development agreement marks a significant milestone in the city’s healthcare and infrastructure growth. Though controversial, the agreement balances the interests of multiple stakeholders while laying the foundation for future collaboration.
With more deliberations expected during the June 18 meeting, residents will soon know when construction can officially begin—ushering in a new era for medical care in Emporia.