A Minute with the Lyons Mayor: Andy Fuston

Wow, it seems like a long time since I’ve spoken with you. Sorry about that. I felt like I really didn’t have anything new to say and was concerned I was starting to sound like a broken record. Our two long standing projects have either been completed or are just about finished. The swimming pool is amazing. I’ve heard nothing but positive feedback on how well it is being received by everyone. As I’ve said in the past, good things come to those who wait. Although we had to wait an extra pool season to get it up and running, those memories and frustrations quickly faded with all the smiles found on the kids’ faces as they played on all the amenities and in the water. We should be so proud as a community. Similarly, we should be proud of the “new and improved” community center. There are just a few details left to finish up with the project but it is done for the most part. It looks totally different on the inside. The finished walls, large windows, new flooring and new bathrooms have transformed the interior from a tired, outdated and unfinished space to a modern and contemporary community center that will represent the true spirit of Lyons for years to come. Due to engineering concerns the front entry has turned out to be less grand than originally thought but once the signage is up it will present it very nicely to the public. The one thing people will notice is that the kitchen space did not receive much cosmetic work. There is new flooring; a new stove vent hood, new air conditioning and paint but the cabinets, walls and ceiling are all the same. We just didn’t have enough money to finish off that space. If more donations come in or another grant can be achieved, that space will have additional work done to it. We have already opened it up to events and weddings but will be planning some sort of open house and dedication in the near future.

I know it hasn’t been all good news since we last spoke. The unexpected closing of Logan Valley Manor was a big loss for our little town. It has been hard for their residents, family members and the LVM team. All we can do now is look to the future and start dreaming of possibilities again. There has been correspondence with the owners of the building about what their plans are for the property. Things are still up in the air as of now. As more of the dust settles, the fate of the property will become clearer. Until they decide what they are going to do, we will stay in contact with them.

For our next big adventure we’ve applied for grant funds to improve lighting on Main Street. If we would be fortunate enough to receive the grant, all of the 1970’s street lights along Main Street will be replaced along with new wiring and concrete. We already contracted with an engineering firm out of West Point who completed a lighting study for the grant application. Again, the street lights are old and tired. A project such as this would easily provide necessary upgrades and ascetically alter the view of our downtown corridor. The grant is reviewed as they are submitted and awarded as funds are available from the state. Hopefully we will know sooner than later if our application is accepted or not. We’ll let you know one way or the other.

The city guys have been working some more on Main Street trying to take some of the ruts and bumps out of the really bad areas. We will continue to do that has time allows. As you’ve read already, the city worked with the school to remove their existing playground equipment and relocate it in Burlington Park. It was a win-win for all. If you haven’t noticed the old motel house on the highway is finally gone. It looks so much better and that area no longer creates a negative first impression when coming into Lyons. It is once again budget time. It comes around so quickly it seems. The city office and council will be formulating the city’s budget to be approved by the state by the end of August/first part of September. It is always a challenge to meet our wants and needs (mostly needs) with what we’ve got to spend. No different than at home I guess!

Finally are you gearing up for the 4^th of July/Bluegrass Festival? It is going to be another fantastic day of fun events, food, fellowship and fireworks. I hope you take advantage of all the great things happening that day. There should be something going on for everyone so there are no excuses for not coming down to the park; even if for just a little while. It sounds like the weather is going to be nice as well.   Please make sure you thank your Community Club and fire department members for putting on such a wonderful experience year after year. They deserve many, many kudos for all their hard work and effort. The best way to thank them however is to come down to the park and enjoy the day! That’s if for now. Enjoy the 4^th of July and all it stands for. Be safe

Mayor Andy Fuston