Tonganoxie to accept Chieftain Park parcels, authorize management agreement with recreation commission

The City of Tonganoxie will accept ownership of two parcels generally considered part of Chieftain Park and enter a management agreement with the Tonganoxie Recreation Commission, the council decided March 2.

Dan (staff) explained that a special warranty deed prepared by the city attorney covers two parcels—one small parcel near the bridge behind Community National Bank and the remainder of Chieftain Park extending toward the northern parking lot. The action formalizes an interlocal agreement approved earlier and clarifies that ownership will rest with the city while the Recreation Commission will manage operations under a written management agreement that defines insurance, dispute resolution and roles and responsibilities.

Councilmembers voted unanimously to accept conveyance under Resolution 032601 and to authorize entering a management agreement under Resolution 032602. Staff told the council the next steps include securing financing for the construction contract (staff hopes to address financing at the March 16 meeting) and then proceeding to execute a city contract with a recommended design/build contractor. Staff also noted the Recreation Commission suggested one minor non‑substantial wording change that could be handled administratively; any substantial edits would be returned to council.

The approvals complete a major milestone for the park project and align ownership, operation and contractual steps so the project can proceed.