From

SQUARE, from page 1 “I just have reservations about the process that was used and the cost and how it was arrived at,”he said.

Phase 2 includes the design of a memorial plaza on the southern end near the Administration Building with a space dedicated to the cities of Johnson County and their histories, a multipurpose stage with possible solar lighting near Cherry and Santa Fe streets, a playground, various art installations and a tree grove seating area on the north side and educational historical plaques about Johnson County and the City of Olathe.

The plaza also will be the new location for six existing historical structures in the Johnson County Square including Bicentennial Committee’s time capsule from 1976, with a scheduled opening in 2076, Johnson County Old Settlers Association’s 100th anniversary time capsule from 1957 commemorating the incorporation of Olathe in 1857, Santa Fe Trail Monument from 1907, a Listing of Old Settlers Association presidents from 1898 to present, a Cornerstone of the county’s second courthouse, known as the Washburn courthouse, from 1892-1952, a long, flat granite stone from the third courthouse that was demolished last year.

The county also plans to install a new time capsule at the Memorial Plaza to commemorate the opening of the new courthouse and redesigned Johnson County Square.

Regulations were unanimously approved. They include prohibition of open flames and other burning materials, alcohol consumption and sales unless part of a permitted community event, booths, tents or other structures unless part of larger community event. Code violations could range from $50 to $500 from the county Sheriff. Leashed dogs and cats will be allowed. Work will begin after Old Settler’s September 10. The square opening date is tentatively scheduled for May 2023.