A collection of local interest items to help keep you up-to-date and informed. Let's do this - #BaldwinTogether.

Late spring morphs into torrid midsummer overnight

Ok, yeah. That was dramatic. Also, it's really hot.

Moving to Phase 3 on Monday, June 8, 2020.

Douglas County Health Department issued an order moving us to Phase 3 of the Governor's reopening plan on Monday, June 8th. Essentially, that means gatherings are now open to up to 45 people and social distancing and masks are strongly advised. All businesses are now allowed to be open, following fundamental cleaning and public health practices.

City Council Meeting June 2nd.

City Council met at the Library for the first time in a couple of months. You can watch the 2 hour and 10 minute video if you like on the city website. They listened to public comment, approved some special event applications for this fall and firework stand applications, and discussed the city-wide pavement maintenance program among other things.

City received grant of $132,000 for local businesses

Baldwin City was selected as one of the 66 Kansas cities and counties receiving funds from the $9 million Community Development Block Grant program to aid community recovery efforts. Our community was awarded $132,000 to distribute to businesses.

More information on how to apply for this grant money will be coming as soon as early next week.

Chip & Seal Pavement Maintenance Project Proposal

The 2020 proposed Pavement Maintenance Project includes sealing road surfaces, something new for Baldwin City. Due to significant cost savings, Baldwin City Public Works is proposing the city use "chip and seal" technology to protect the road surfaces and increase longevity. More information on this project, including a list of roads included.

Here's a video from Johnson County, KS Government showing what chip & seal looks like and explaining some of the reasons why it is used.

Eastside Sidewalk Improvement Project Community Discussion

Monday, June 8th, at the American Legion Hall, from 4-5pm, a question and answer discussion will take place between city council, the project engineer, and community members regarding the Eastside sidewalk improvement project.

Pool reopening plan

Here's the Rec Commission's timeline and plan for the 2020 pool season. They're taking it slow and safe. If you missed our interview with Matt McClure, it's very informative.

Parks are now open - use at your own risk

The city will not be sanitizing play equipment. Please read and follow CDC guidelines regarding playground use during Covid-19.

Flag Project

We want a flag that represents Baldwin City, and we need YOUR help.

𝕎ℍ𝕐: In the same way a mascot unites a team, a flag allows citizens to show pride and love for their hometown. Show off your love for Baldwin City and help us design a flag by the people and for the people!

𝕎ℍ𝔼ℕ: Submissions are open June 3rd, 2020-July 3rd, 2020. Voting rounds will begin in July and conclude in August with a final council vote after public input and voting.

ℍ𝕆𝕎: Keep your design simple. Use a 3x5 index card in order to design to scale. Use 2-3 high contrast colors and keep symbols simple and meaningful. Try not to use words or letters. Be unique, and reflect your own love of Baldwin City.

Pick up an entry form and index cards from City Hall, the Baldwin City Recreation Commission, Lumberyard Arts Center, or the Baldwin City Ks. Public Library.

𝕊𝕌𝔹𝕄𝕀𝕋: Submit up to 3 designs per individual. You may submit to City Hall, Lumberyard Arts Center, Baldwin City Library, Baldwin City Recreation Commission, or via mail.

Most of all? Have fun!

More information, and full rules & regulations here. Printable entry form here. Questions? Email lhughes@baldwincity.gov.

#FunFriday150

What?? Some of the buildings currently existing downtown used to be taller. In this undated photo from a "Souvenir of Baldwin Kansas" booklet published in 1908 and currently housed at Baldwin City Ks. Public Library, the buildings on the northeast corner of 7th & High have two stories. A recent photo of that corner shows the buildings as they appear today.