HESSTON, Kan. — When the manufactured housing industry was booming in the 1970s, the city of Hesston built a new and successful mobile home park. But over the years, the area became rundown. Eventually, the park was closed and the trailers were removed.

The city must now figure out what to do with the vacant land. Hesston City Manager Gary Emry understands the need for housing in the small Harvey County community:

 

 

The Hesston City Council held a special meeting at King Park last week to address potential development on the south side of town where the mobile home park sat. Emry says those in attendance want the area developed, but also want the city to take its time on the project, so the community reaps the fullest benefit:

 

 

Emry noted the council has been considering a multi-use space, patio homes, single-family duplexes/apartments, retail and commercial use, recreational use (and green space) and even the potential for Habitat for Humanity housing on that land. Emry says that raises a lot of questions:

 

 

In 2016, the city purchased the mobile home park and established a two-year relocation subsidy for residents. The park started with 42 residents, but is currently down to three.