By Lucky Kidd, Ad Astra Radio
MCPHERSON, Kan. – Following nearly 2 hours of discussion and comments Monday night, the McPherson Planning Commission recommended the City Commission approve a conditional use permit to add stadium lights and a scoreboard to the athletic field at McPherson High School.
This will be the first phase of improvements for the field with any expansion of seating, a press box and a sound system to be addressed at a later date pending fundraising and approval of a bond issue to be voted on in May.
Much of the discussion centered around screening for properties, particularly to the north of the field along Hulse Street. Conditions for approval include dimming of scoreboard lighting at night, shading requirements for lights and repair or maintenance of existing screening. The data presented indicated the lighting proposed will likely meet that condition.
There was one written comment in opposition to the permit from a couple living along North High Drive. Multiple issues were cited, including a claim that property values would “crash” if it was approved.
The recommendation will be considered by the City Commission on February 21st.
