Posted on Thu, Feb. 26, 2009

Incumbent Mayor Ed Parker says he takes comfort in knowing that Kechi has kept its small-town atmosphere and charm during the past 16 years.

That's one reason Parker said he's running for a fifth four-year term.

"We've got a police department and tax base that's remained the same over the 16 years," he said. "Yet we are building a new city building and police station and haven't had to hit the people in the back pockets to pay for it. We planned for the future, and it's been good for everybody."

The city's population has steadily climbed from 725 in 1993 to 2,500 in 2009.

That may be one reason it's time for change, say the three candidates opposing Parker in Kechi's mayoral race.

"We've had some very competent leadership in Kechi," said Larry Parke, 71, a real estate broker.

"But we've had only two mayors in Kechi for the past 30 years. That's too much of the same government for too long. The good-ol'-boy politics has to be replaced with good business sense."

Robert Jackson, 67, a retired high school science teacher, said the influx of people prompted him to run for mayor.

"I believe there are new challenges the city is facing," Jackson said. "We are no longer the antique capital of Kansas. We need to start a gradual buildup of a business base without affecting the hometown residential community that we have."

Rick Eberhard, 57, a retired Boeing security worker, is president of the town's senior citizen club and recycling coordinator. He says Kechi needs a more open government and needs to keep residents better informed of events and meetings in the city.

"Communication is lacking," Eberhard said. "Voters have no clue what's going on, whether it's community activities like a picnic, a barbecue or a particular meeting.

"The City Council has too many executive sessions behind closed doors."

The four candidates agree on one thing: The economy is foremost on the list of issues.

Jackson said Kechi's mill levy must remain low.

"I'm wanting to work more closely with the Chamber of Commerce and economic development to bring business in the city," he said.

The downtown must attract business, Parke said.

"There has been no development in quite some time along Main Street," he said. "It's somewhat blighted because of lack of attention."

But Parker, a 68-year-old retired warehouse worker, said the people he has talked with are pleased he's running again.

"I think it's because I haven't let them down for 16 years," he said.

Reach Beccy Tanner at 316-268-6336 or btanner@wichitaeagle.com.