(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved an engineering agreement for the development of housing on city-owned land west of the soccer fields at Bruning Park.

Following a lengthy discussion, the Commission voted 3- 2 Monday evening enter into a contract with BG Consultants to provide survey, platting and design services for a fee of $77,000. Commissioners Brian Shefferd and Tom Martin cast the dissenting votes.

That came after a motion by Shefferd to table action for two weeks and hold a special meeting in order for Commissioners to discuss a plan for the entire 34 acres of property failed on a 2-3 vote. Shefferd said he wants to make sure its done correctly.

Mayor Becky Shamburg said they need to have the civil engineering completed to move forward.

The city is attempting to secure a grant for phase 1 of the project--a duplex development planned on about 3 to 5 acres of the southern portion of the property .

The city has tried unsuccessfully several times to obtain a grant through the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation for the project and hopes having some engineering in place will enhance its chances.

The Commission received several letters of support from local businesses for the project.

Engineer Jason Hoskinson with BG Consultants, joining the meeting via Zoom, said a preliminary plat and preliminary construction plans should be completed in 4 to 6 months.

In other business, the Commission approved an ordinance amending the city's vicious animal ordinance and repealing the ban on pit bulls and rottweilers. The Commission voted last month to repeal the ban on the two dog breeds and move forward with a stricter vicious dog ordinance. City Administrator Brad Scott said the amended ordinance adds some further clarification to the city's vicious dog ordinance. The new ordinance will take effect at its publication in the Hiawatha newspaper Friday.