Shawnee County Council Approves Management Lease for Great Overland Station with Beacon

The Shawnee County Commission meeting on August 28, 2025, highlighted a significant development regarding the management of the Great Overland Station. County Councilor Rich Eckert introduced discussions about a proposed management lease with Beacon, a local organization that has expressed interest in overseeing the facility's operations. This move aims to enhance the utilization of the station, which has been under the management of the county's Parks and Recreation department for several years.

Eckert emphasized the need for specialized management, noting that the county is not equipped to handle event management effectively. Beacon, which has a strong local presence and experience in managing similar facilities, was identified as a suitable partner. The councilor praised the collaborative negotiations with Beacon, describing them as smooth and productive.

The proposed lease would grant Beacon the authority to manage day-to-day operations, including scheduling events and overseeing food services, while still allowing the county to retain some presence in the facility for occasional events. Eckert reassured attendees that county events would still be accommodated, albeit with Beacon's calendar taking priority.

The contract is nearing completion, with about 95% finalized, and it includes provisions for the management of county-owned assets within the facility. Eckert noted that the arrangement is expected to maximize the station's use, which has been underutilized in recent years. The partnership with Beacon is seen as a strategic move to not only improve the station's operations but also to generate revenue that can help offset the facility's costs.

In addition to the Great Overland Station discussions, the meeting included other routine county business, but the focus on the management lease stood out as a pivotal step towards revitalizing a key community asset. The commission's decision to engage a local entity like Beacon reflects a commitment to enhancing community resources and ensuring that the Great Overland Station serves the needs of Shawnee County residents effectively.