Feb 21, 2024

🎙King in the Community: Salina Mayor, Bill Longbine

Posted Feb 21, 2024 7:42 PM

By SALINA POST

On this episode of "King in the Community," Salina Mayor Bill Longbine shares his background and reasons for running for commission, the city's response to homelessness, emergency first responder facility upgrades, BSL, and more.

Hear more about Longbine's tour of city facilities and the need for a new fire station due to outdated design and cramped living quarters. Learn about the city's state-of-the-art police training facility and how the equipment and exercises better prepare local officers to respond to high-stress situations.

They discuss potential upcoming economic developements and economic development project zones, and an update on deteriorating properties like the Ambassador Hotel and St. John's Hospital.

Nate also asks Longbine about ongoing challenges faced by the Salina Animal Shelter and the City's response to growing concerns about the current breed specific laws.

Longbine talks about how the City is addressing homelessness and his takeaways from the Salina City Commission homelessness forum held in Jan. featuring guest speaker Julia Orlando, Founder and CEO of Julia Orlando Consulting.

Longbine is skeptical about operating a homeless shelter, while Nate suggests alternative solutions. Tune in to "King in the Community" for an insightful look at the issues and initiatives shaping the city of Salina.

For Mayor Longbine's official remarks after becoming city mayor, click here.