Atchison commission adopts ordinance 6712 installing all-way stop at Third and Mound

The Atchison City Commission voted to adopt ordinance number 6712, authorizing permanent 'always stop' signs at the intersection of Third and Mound Street. The ordinance had been listed on the consent agenda but was pulled for separate consideration before the formal vote.

Commissioner Murphy cautioned that stop signs can create a false sense of security for young pedestrians, recalling a family traffic fatality and questioning whether a sign alone would solve the problem. "I just don't think that a stop sign is gonna do what we anticipated to do," Murphy said, arguing that signs might give children an expectation that motorists will always stop.

City staff and the police were cited in support of the measure. Staff noted the request originated from Saint Benedict School staff who observed heavy morning and afternoon pedestrian activity at the intersection; staff proposed additional measures if the ordinance were approved, including repainting the crosswalk, adding orange flags, placing advance-warning signs, and coordinating with the school to educate students about safe crossing. The chief (referred to as Chief Wilson) told commissioners that stop signs are intended to enhance safety but do not ensure it; enforcement and pedestrian awareness remain important.

The commission moved and seconded the ordinance and carried the motion by voice vote. The transcript records at least one dissenting voice, but a precise roll-call tally was not recorded in the public transcript extract.

The ordinance takes effect according to the city's standard implementation process; staff indicated they would repaint the crosswalk and deploy temporary warning measures as the sign is installed.