Amtrak Update
On Friday, March 17, Mayor Koehn and I submitted joint testimony and a letter of support to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for allocation of funding for the Amtrack Heartland Flyer passenger rail extension from Oklahoma City through Wichita to Newton. As noted in a media statement by Sedgwick County Commissioner Pete Meitzner, "We've done so much work locally and regionally to prepare KDOT and ODOT that this (funding) request is a worthy solicitation for those two states to join together to pursue."
The FRA has received approximately $51 billion in grant funding; and those funds can be applied toward 80% of the cost of the line extension. Both KDOT and ODOT will need to make applications for the funds, and the submittals are due in the next few days.
We will keep you updated on the progress of the applications.
Sand Creek Station Golf Course
This season is off to a fantastic start! February revenue was more than double projections, and staff did a great job of holding expenses in line.
The grille floor project is complete and looks fantastic. The original tile was removed and the existing concrete floors were stained and epoxy coated. Come check it out!
On February 4, we hosted the Big Game Scramble, a fundraising tournament that raised over $500 for SafeHope. Thanks to everyone who played and sponsored!
The USGA will visit Newton on April 18 to conduct a site visit of the course and community in consideration of bringing another championship tournament to Newton. We look forward to welcoming them!
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Tree Coupons Now Available
Spring is a great time to plant trees! And spring tree coupons are now available. The coupons are good for 50% off the cost of a tree, up to $75. Newton residents can pick up the coupons at City Hall at the third-floor reception desk, while supplies last! You can find a list of approved trees from the Kansas Forest Service.
National Fix A Leak Week
This week (March 20-26) is "Fix A Leak Week."
The average household's leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year.
You can read more about what you can do to reduce water waste in your home on the EPA's website.
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Upcoming Community Events
May 4: Newton Area Chamber of Commerce Steak Cookout: Join the Chamber for a "Run for the Roses" themed annual steak cookout fund raiser on May 4 from 6 to 9 PM at Sand Creek Event Center. This year's theme is Kentucky Derby, so put on your best hat and come out for the event. The cookout starts with a social hour from 6 to 7 PM and is followed by a delicious steak dinner and silent dessert auction. The cost to register for an individual ticket is $30 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are also available!
June 2: Newton Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament: Mark your schedules for the Chamber's annual fundraising golf tournament on Friday, June 2 at Sand Creek Station. Tee off is at 8 AM. Registration is now open and sponsorship opportunities are available!
June 17: Cookie Daze SK Competitive Run: Spring weather means it's time to register for the Cookie Daze 5K Competitive run on Saturday, June 17 at Athletic Park. Registration is $25 for ages 13 and older through March 31; and $30 after 03/31; $20 for ages 12 and under; and $25 after March 31. Register in the next two weeks to get the early bird rate!
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Upcoming Meetings & Reminders
- 7:30 a.m. March 23 – City Commission Agenda Review Meeting, City Hall Third Floor Conference Room
- 7 p.m. March 28 – City Commission Meeting, City Hall Commission Chambers
- 7:30 a.m. April 6 – City Commission Agenda Review Meeting, City Hall Third Floor Conference Room
- 7 p.m. April 11 – City Commission Meeting, City Hall Commission Chambers
- 7:30 a.m. April 20 – City Commission Agenda Review Meeting, City Hall Third Floor Conference Room
- 3:30 p.m. April 21 – Centennial Ball Field Ribbon Cutting, Centennial Park
- 7 p.m. April 25 – City Commission Meeting, City Hall Commission Chambers
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