From the City Administrator - October 2023
A NOTE OF REFLECTION
This is my final update to our community as your City Administrator as I look to move on to ventures yet to be experienced. Scripture tells us in the book of Jeremiah: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." So, as I step away from city management, I harken back to when it all began:
In March 2000, I received a phone call from Mayor Karen Fitzmier, asking me to consider coming to Maize and “run this little town.” At the time I said, “Sure, but only part-time!” And now we look back in amazement and smile at the accomplishments and happenings over these past 23 years. The City Administrator position did not remain part-time. It soon demanded more than full-time dedication as it grew from a small, seemingly isolated community to the current successful, thriving and fastest growing city in the state. Our city provides operations and services that are built on a firm foundation and are managed by professional staff who are prepared to meet the opportunities of the future.
Looking back, it has been an enjoyable, rewarding, humbling and gratifying adventure! I wish to thank all my great fellow Maize citizens for your support along the way. Also, to our current Mayor and Council members, as well as those who served before you, I thank you for your acceptance and backing over these many years.
Most especially, a big, warm and loving thank you to my Maize family of employees! Each of you has a special place in my heart. The many successes and accomplishments of our wonderful city over these years are all directly attributed to each of you. It’s your dedication, competence, proficiency and teamwork that made each of my days an amazing adventure.
May God bless you and keep His arms of protection around you!
Forever grateful to be a part of the team in the City of Maize - where good things are happening!
Richard LaMunyon City Administrator
Have you ever wondered about the property taxes you pay in Maize and how the Mill Levy effects them? We have created a page to show you where the property taxes you pay go and how changes to the Mill Levy effects them. While no one likes paying taxes, property taxes are the primary source of funding of government entities such as the city, county, fire district, school district and others. These funds are ultimately reinvested back into the community to provide infrastructure improvements and the service you expect.
Visit our Property Taxes in Maize and how the Mill Levy effects them page to learn more.
In the fall of 2020, the City of Maize applied for a highly competitive grant through KDOT’s Cost Share Program for the purposes of installing a crosswalk with pedestrian activated caution lights on Maize Road just north of Academy Avenue. With letters of support from Commissioner Lacey Cruise, Councilwoman Karen Fitzmier and USD 266; the project was one of a few selected for funding from the entire State.
The KDOT Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for transportation projects that improve safety, support job retention and growth, improve access or mobility, relieve congestion and help areas across the state improve the transportation system. The City of Maize was able to leverage taxpayer funds by matching local funds to the $45,000 gift from the State.
This summer, Wildcat Construction constructed the project. This project will compliment the 2022 Academy Avenue project which will feature wide bicycle and pedestrian paths on both sides of the street (stay tuned for an interactive website!).
The City is developing a plan, Maize in Motion, to make bicycling and walking in Maize easier and safer.
It will identify a future city-wide pedestrian and bicycle network, along with other improvements (parking, signage, and lighting). Maize in Motion will also suggest linkages to surrounding communities for regional connectivity. During the effort, the City, WAMPO, and Core Team will reach out to community members for feedback on issues, opportunities, recommendations, and priorities.
Visit the following links to learn more about Maize in Motion and to provide your opinions on what you would like in a city-wide pedestrian and bicycle network.
The City of Maize is developing a Master Plan to create a safe and walkable core in the community, a place of identity that lets people know they are in Maize. Academy Avenue and Park Avenue were identified as destination points for reimagining this experience in Maize. The first step is to identify a cohesive community vision for the future of the district - whether you live, work, visit, or just travel through Maize, we want to hear from you!
More Information >
Through the integration of its population into every aspect of quality education, civic improvements, community appearance, commerce and recreation, Maize shall preserve its small town atmosphere and become the best small city in Kansas.
"Where Community Counts"
10100 W Grady Ave. ∙ P.O. Box 245 ∙ Maize, KS 67101 p: 316.722.7561 ∙ f: 316.722.0346
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