Waverly band shell project advances

WAVERLY, Iowa --- Architects have a green light to develop plans and specifications for a performance area in Kohlmann Park.

After debating merits of the proposed location, the City Council on Monday authorized AHTS Architects of Waterloo to work out details. The resolution passed 5-2. Councilmen Gary Boorom and Chris Neuendorf cast dissenting votes.

The vote shed light on the varied comfort levels with Kohlmann Park as the site. The park is west of the Cedar River and is buffered by First Street Northwest and Fourth Avenue Northwest and Bremer Avenue.

Councilwoman Kathy Olson said every location will have challenges. She added concerns about the park --- such as traffic, parking and flood potential --- have or will be addressed.

"I believe we need to make a decision. It's been out there for 10 years. It's time to put a stake in the ground and say we are going to move forward," Olson said.

Several residents, including some property owners near the park, were not convinced and believe better fits for the performance area exist.

"You are devaluing the quality of life of the people who live in the area on Thursday night," said Duane Liddle, a resident of the city's southwest side and a former councilman.

Last May, the council sent performance center advocates back to the drawing board after rejecting a request to vacate a portion of Fourth Avenue Northwest for the band shell. This latest version of the project pushes the staging area farther south.

The council could still redirect or halt the project at other stages.

Vicky Green wondered if the joint fairgrounds and ball diamond complex proposed for northwest Waverly should also be the home of Greater Waverly Municipal Band concerts and other entertainment. The band offers a summer concert series in the park and is seeking the band shell.

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Waverly band shell project advances