The Hays City Commission held a public hearing during its Oct. 23 meeting for the potential creation of a Community Improvement District for The Mall in Hays.
Those who were present at the Hays City Commission Meeting on Thursday were able to express their thoughts about The Mall CID that will soon be voted on. After opening business, the Hays City Commission held a public hearing as a part of its Oct. 23 meeting to gauge public opinion on the matter.
The CID being proposed by the owners of The Mall calls for $3,144,936 that would be used on renovations on the interior and exterior of The Mall. An implication of the CID is a 1 percent special sales tax that would be present at all vendors within The Mall. The special sales tax would be used to pay back the funds requested over a period of time that would not be longer than 22 years.
“Are not the citizens a part of Hays,” asked Melanie Valley, a Hays resident who opened the public hearing with her comments. “I believe the corporation should be responsible by loan, or they should sell The Mall to another investor.”
Other public comments ranged from concerns about the lacking of effective A/C units in parts of the mall, to concerns with the upkeep of The Malls floors and restrooms.
A tenant of The Mall was also present at the meeting. Alan Leiker, the owner of G&L Tires voiced his support for the CID, but recommended the use of local contractors to, “keep the funds in Hays.”
“Think about what a fully updated and leased out mall could do for Hays,” said Matt Gough, the Attorney representing the owners of The Mall. Gough pointed out The Malls potentially lucrative position in Hays, calling the CID potentially a “win, win, win” for Hays. “The Mall is important for Hays, and realizing The Mall’s true potential benefits everyone,” Gough said.
The CID will go to vote at the next Hays City Commission Meeting, and after a work session is held to further discuss and contemplate the CID.
Following the public hearing, presentations calling for funds for sewer manhole and storm sewer maintenance in Hays were given. Both were approved by the City Commission.