Kelley Park driveway closing on agenda

There will be only one way in and one way out for the access road in front of Kelley Park's lower shelter house, if the McCook City Council approves closing the west entrance at the regular council meeting, 7:30 p.m. at City Council Chambers in Memorial Auditorium.

The council has discussed at prior council meetings closing the road from the Kelley Park Drive entrance, due to increased foot traffic, speeding motorists and as a way to deter vandalism in the lower shelter house. At the Feb. 15 council meeting, Councilman Jerry Calvin voiced support in making the street one-way, as it would encourage people to use the park and provide safety from those who drive too fast on the road.

Councilman Aaron Kircher disagreed. He said closing the road from Kelley Park Drive would not deter speeding motorists and that it would be a hinderance for many residents who use the road.

If the council approves closing off the west entrance, city staff would construct a turn-around area just beyond the shelter house and add some parking spaces.

Also on the regular agenda, at the request of Mayor Dennis Berry, the council will discuss policies regarding the use of the city auditorium for special events.

On the consent agenda item, the council will be asked to approve the special designated liquor licenses submitted by Taste of Texas BBQ Inc.

The licenses would for beer gardens at the Red Willow County Fairgrounds, from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. during McCook Auto Racing events, from April through August.