Former Mayor Calls River Neglect "Atrocious," Demands City Action
Becky Anderson challenges council to revitalize Smoky Hill Riverfront as civic duty
LINDSBORG - Former Mayor Becky Anderson delivered a pointed public address this week, calling on city government to fulfill its "civic duty to preserve our heritage" by taking immediate action to revitalize the long-neglected Smoky Hill Riverfront that once served as the economic heart of Lindsborg's founding. Anderson, who described the current state of the river as "atrocious," argued that while the non-profit museum board has done commendable work preserving the city's Swedish heritage, the municipal government has failed in its responsibility to maintain this crucial natural and historical asset that runs through the heart of town. She challenged the city council to develop concrete plans for the riverfront, noting that visiting city planners are often astounded to discover Lindsborg even has a river, highlighting how completely the waterway has been forgotten despite its central role in the community's origins and early prosperity.