Recreation commission seeks county contribution for Kelly Park lighting upgrades

Representatives of the Recreation Commission told the Coffey County Commission they completed a multi‑site lighting upgrade for ballfields and grandstands, and asked the county to consider a one-time contribution to help offset the Kelly Park portion of the project.

The rec commission representative said bids were received from Geosport Lighting and Musco Lighting; Geosport's bid was roughly 25% lower than Musco's. The full project cost reported in the record was approximately $596,625 with Kelly Park’s portion listed at $35,408; Burlington (the city) pledged $150,000 to be paid over seven years toward the broader project.

The rec commission asked the county to consider contributing about 10% of Kelly Park’s cost (approximately $35,000) as a gesture reflecting county events and use, but emphasized they had already paid for the work and any county assistance would refill their capital outlay for future investments. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about usage, cost-sharing and whether the city's contribution would affect the county's decision; no motion was taken and staff suggested they would revisit the request after further consideration.

The rec commission also highlighted safety and reduced light spillover with the new directed LED system, and noted a 25-year warranty on fixtures.