This achievement demonstrated that McPherson students can compete with professional restoration shops. “We tied with another entrant, but they won first place because their car was one of a kind, made for the CEO of Chrysler,” Mayor Brown explains.“Still, our students proved they can match the quality of professionals.” The program’s prestige is further enhanced by celebrity involvement. “Jay Leno has given a tenthousand-dollar annual scholarship for years, and he still has students work with him at his garage during the summer,” Mayor Brown says. INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES In order to stay competitive, McPherson continues to invest in infrastructure. “Three years ago, we completed the Mohawk Substation, which increased our electrical capacity,” Mayor Brown says. Water security is also critical. “We just finished a 33-million-dollar project bringing water from 20 miles south on three wells that recharge in 48 hours,” he explains. “This increased our water reserve by about 40 percent, putting us among the best in Kansas for future water supply.” The city also finds innovative ways to support industry. “We sell gray water from the wastewater treatment plant to the refinery, where it is purified using a massive reverse osmosis system,” Mayor Brown notes. “This supports operations that add value to local industry and create regional economic linkages.” GROWING COMMUNITIES McPherson’s growth is matched by efforts to make the community a great place to live.“We just completed a new playground, repaired ponds, and renovated the community building for five million dollars,” Mayor Brown says.“We have built low-income senior housing and are using a federal grant to build 40 homes by the end of 2026.” Becker highlights that surrounding communities 81 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 10 MCPHERSON, KS
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