Renaming of Big Arkansas River Park to M.S. Mitch Mitchell - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Renaming of Big Arkansas River Park to M.S. “Mitch” Mitchell Floodway Park (District VI) Department of Park and Recreation July 9, 2019

2 Background • In 2016, the Park Board approved a proposal by the Wichita Area Builders Association to construct a display about the Wichita/Valley Center Floodway in the Big Arkansas River Park. • Wichita Area Builders Association petitioned Congressman Ron Estes and Senator Jerry Moran to rename the Floodway as the M.S. “Mitch” Mitchell Floodway. • This was approved and signed into national law on December 21, 2018. • In May, 2019, the consideration of renaming the park as the M.S. “Mitch” Mitchell Floodway Park was presented by Mr. Wess Galyon to the Park Board and unanimously approved.

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4 Analysis • In compliance with City Council Policy #13 on Naming Public/Facilities and/or Land, the Park Board acted as the Naming Committee. • In accordance with the policy, M.S. “Mitch” Mitchell qualifies to be distinguished by these observations: • M.S. “Mitch” Mitchell is deceased, • Mitchell was the Flood Control and Maintenance Supervisor for the Flood Control Office for Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita from 1968-1953, • Mitchell made significant contribution through promotion of economic development and minimizing flood damage, • The construction of the Floodway was nominated as one of the top national public works projects in the 1950’s.

5 Financial Considerations • Signage displaying the new name for the park would be needed, but the financial implications would be minimal.

6 Recommendations • It is recommended that City Council approve the renaming of the Big Arkansas River Park as the M.S. “Mitch” Mitchell Floodway Park.

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