Kansas Municipal News
Lessons in population health from small-city Kansas
Mahbub Rashid sees cities differently than most people. And you might say the dean of the University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design ought to do that. But Rashid has taken spatial analysis of urban development to the cutting edge of technology — and this view of small-town Kansas suggests to him that much more can be done to promote the health of people who live there. Rashid’s new book, “Built Environment and Population Health in Small-Town America: Learning from Small Cities of Kansas” (Johns Hopkins University Press), looks at how lifestyle behaviors and health indicators are associated with spatial planning and design factors in 36 small Kansas cities with populations between 2,500 and 49,999. Rashid measured the size and density of each city, its distance from a large city, its daytime population change and the average commuting time of its residents – and he found that all these factors seem to affect how population health is associated with the built environment there.
Source: University of Kansas
Goat remains on the lam in Harvey County
… Sheriff’s Deputy RJ Wagner responded to a call asking for assistance in wrangling a goat that was on a person’s property … Wagoner reported spending about five minutes with the property owner, getting a rope around the goat and leading it to a lean-to pen. He said the property owner planned on trying to find the goat’s owner. He left and said between 10 to 15 minutes later, he received a call that the goat had escaped. As of Tuesday, it had yet to be located.
Source: Harvey County Now
Sedgwick County homeowners see higher property appraisals again
Sixty percent of Sedgwick County homeowners will see higher tax appraisals when notices are mailed out March 1. Despite the bad news for three in five residential property owners, it’s actually the lowest proportion of appraisal increases since 2018. Appraisals went up for 80% of homeowners in 2023 and 88% in 2022. This year, the average median increase is 8%. Only 1% of the county’s 183,359 residential parcels declined in value. Tax appraisal increases are driven by sales of new and existing homes. “We still have shortages of housing. The unbalance between supply and demand is there and it pushes up those prices,” County Appraiser Mark Clark told the County Commission on Wednesday. Climbing valuations could lead to higher property taxes unless the County Commission lowers the mill levy. Even so, property owners will have a chance to appeal appraisals. The median sale price for a home in Sedgwick County increased to $243,200 last year — up just over 8% from $225,000 in 2022. The first year the county’s median price point topped $200,000 was 2021. The median price point for an existing house in 2023 was $223,000, compared to $382,770 for a new build. Home sales decreased by 16.8%, which Clark attributed to relatively high interest rates and high residential property prices. “You have property owners that don’t want to give up a mortgage with a rate of 3.5 percent or less for a mortgage that is 6.5 percent or greater,” he said. “The bottom line is, some potential buyers are forgoing the purchase of a home and are waiting for lower rates. At the same time, some potential buyers are becoming acclimated to these rates and they are simply choosing to buy smaller homes.”
Source: KLC Journal
Topeka could hire new city manager by May
Topeka is getting closer to finding a new city manager. City leaders gave an update Tuesday on where the hiring process stands. Interim City Manager Richard Nienstedt said the city has received 42 applications for the position. The governing body reviewed each of those candidates during executive session at its Feb. 20 meeting. Nienstedt said the council hopes to select finalists at its March 19 council meeting. Once the finalists are announced, Nienstedt said in-person interviews should begin the second week of April. These interviews will involve multiple opportunities for the public to give feedback to council, including panel discussions and a community meet and greet event. Nienstedt said if the process goes according to plan, Topeka should have a new city manager by mid-May. “I want you understand this is entirely the council’s decision,” Nienstedt said. “So hopefully, they’ll work through those candidates, and you’ll have a new city manager by then that this community can look forward to.” Mayor Michael Padilla encouraged the community to attend these public events and give feedback on the candidates and selection process. Padilla said he wants to see diverse turnout that represents the population of Topeka.
Source: KSNT 27 News
With complaints about noise, trash and booze, Johnson County city cracks down on Airbnbs
Shawnee is the latest city in the metro to crack down on Airbnbs and other short-term rentals in response to neighborhood complaints. The Shawnee City Council for months has debated whether to tighten restrictions on short-term rentals — or even outright ban them in residential areas — due to mounting complaints about noise, parking, alcohol and trash at Airbnb and Vrbo locations. And on Monday, the council voted 7-1 to add new regulations, joining a growing number of cities nationwide, and one of the first in Johnson County, to do so. Owners of such rentals have advocated for regulations that allow them to continue operating in Shawnee. But other neighbors have pleaded for a ban in single-family neighborhoods or harsher rules. Owners of short-term rentals must pay a $500 fee to obtain a special short-term rental license, which can be revoked for 24 months if regulations aren’t followed. Violators can also face $500 fines or six months jail time. In addition, the rentals can only house a maximum of two adults per bedroom, plus an additional adult, for a maximum of 10 guests total. The rental home’s agent, or operator, must live within 40 miles of the property. The city ordinance also spells out noise, parking and health regulations. The short-term rentals cannot be used for receptions or parties.
Source: Joco 913 News
Neighbors can’t take the racket, so a Johnson County city is taking down pickleball nets
It seemed like a good idea at the time. Pickleball was soaring in popularity to become America’s fastest growing sport. Courts started multiplying throughout Kansas City, becoming a staple of parks, community centers and new entertainment complexes. And with high demand, Prairie Village — already needing to resurface its tennis courts at Windsor Park — decided to restripe for pickleball. But nearby neighbors say they can only take so much. Many say the constant “pop, pop, pop” reverberating through their neighborhood has been a headache since the courts were completed last June, at the park near Mission Road and south of 71st Street. While the paddleball-adjacent sport has won the hearts of active residents, it’s also led to noise complaints, neighborhood disputes and even lawsuits, both in Johnson County and across the country. Searching for a solution, the Prairie Village City Council has considered spending money on sound proofing panels to block the noise, or repainting to bring back the quieter game of tennis.
Source: Joco 913 News
National League of Cities Kicks Off ‘Roadshow’ Celebrating Organization’s 100th Anniversary
One hundred years ago, in 1924, the National League of Cities (NLC) was founded in Lawrence, Kansas at the University of Kansas. To commemorate this historic milestone, NLC, will kick off its Centennial Roadshow: 100 Years, 100 Cities, with the University of Kansas School of Public Affairs and Administration, the League of Kansas Municipalities, and the City of Lawrence, Kansas for a day-long celebration at the University of Kansas. As the site of NLC’s founding, Lawrence, Kansas will serve as the first stop in a nationwide roadshow organized by NLC. The roadshow will include stops at 100 cities in every region of the country, aimed at spotlighting the diversity, resilience, and transformation of America’s local communities. The roadshow will culminate at NLC’s City Summit conference in Tampa, Florida in November 2024. “It’s an honor to kick off the National League of Cities’ Centennial Roadshow in Lawrence, Kansas, where this great organization was founded,” said Clarence Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of the National League of Cities.
Source: www.nlc.org/contents/rss-feed
Johnson County residents tried to stop controversial park sale. But judge sides with city
The city of Westwood will move forward with selling its lone park so it can be redeveloped into retail and office buildings, now that a Johnson County judge has ruled that a resident petition aiming to stop the sale is invalid. Judge David Hauber on Friday sided with the city, deciding the residents who submitted the petition failed to meet several legal requirements to place the sale of the park on the ballot. Without being required to hold a public vote, city officials say they will now complete the sale this summer to pave the way for the redevelopment project. The sale of the city’s only park has caused ongoing controversy in Westwood, with several residents concerned about losing the 1-acre Joe D. Dennis Park at Rainbow Boulevard and 50th Street to private development. After months of debate, the Westwood City Council in October voted 5-1 approving plans for a mixed-use development on 8 acres, including the park. In addition to building the office space, Johnson County-based Karbank Real Estate Company and the city have reached an agreement to replace Joe D. Dennis with a new 3.8-acre park. The site also includes the former Westwood View Elementary School, as well as a piece of vacant city property, previously occupied by the Westwood Christian Church.
Source: Joco 913 News
Home destroyed, one person injured in Kearny County grassfire
One person was injured, a farm home was destroyed and an undetermined amount of acres were burned in a grass fire Monday in Kearny County. Around 1 p.m. Monday, a fire started along Highway 25 at mile marker 86 near Lakin. At that time, the Kearny County Sheriff’s Office says there was a strong wind from the west. The fire spread quickly because of the dry vegetation and lack of recent rainfall. Kearny County Emergency Services responded to the fire, and received assistance from Stanton County, Grant County and Garden City. Crews were battling wind gusts in excess of 30 miles per hour, as well as extremely rugged terrain, which made it difficult to contain the fire. The Kansas Forestry Service was notified, and will be using electronic equipment to measure how many acres were charred. In addition to acres of grass, a home was destroyed by the fire. One Kearny County resident, who was acting on their own trying to stop the fire, was injured, though their condition is unknown. Kearny County emergency preparedness director Jared Webb has declared a verbal emergency with the state, emergency operations center and with the state emergency operations center, and had assistance from them at getting air support to drop water from aircraft. The declaration will be in effect until county commissioners rescind it.
Source: KAKE – News
Cats rescued from burning Hutchinson home
One person and four cats were evacuated from a burning home in Hutchinson on Monday. Around 1 p.m., the Hutchinson Fire Department responded to the 200 block of West 28th Street for the report of a structure fire. Upon arrival, crews found smoke pushing out of the front door out of a single-story home. Dispatch reported to units that there was a possible occupant inside trying to get pets out. Crews operated in an offensive strategy by stretching a hose line to the front door. The first crew that arrived on scene was able to hear the occupant inside the home, and made entry to perform rescue. The occupant was removed from the home and checked by Reno County EMS. Crews started an aggressive attack in the kitchen area of the home, and were able to extinguish the fire quickly. Search crews cleared the home and rescued four cats. The Hutchinson Police Department, Reno County EMS, Kansas Gas, Evergy and the Hutchinson-Reno County Communications Center assisted.
Source: KAKE – News
State of disaster emergency issued for wildland fires
Warmer conditions, strong winds and low relative humidities will create high to very-high fire weather conditions for many parts of the state. “Weather conditions are such that a high risk exists for wildland fires,” Governor Kelly said. “I urge everyone across the state to use extreme caution and avoid burning, if at all possible. A single spark is enough to touch off a fire that could have devastating consequences.” “We can all do our part to prevent unwanted fires,” Rodney Redinger, Assistant Fire Management Officer, Kansas Forest Service, said. “If there are opportunities to avoid welding, using cutting torches or other activities that could cause a spark, please do so over the next few days. If you must engage in spark-causing activities, make sure to have a fire extinguisher, water pressure can or other tool for extinguishing ready for a fire that could ignite.” The Kansas Division of Emergency Management will staff the State Emergency Operations Center starting tomorrow to assist counties and local responders if requested.
Source: KAKE – News
City council members host bike ride to look at trail conditions
Vice Mayor Maggie Ballard invited city council members and the public to join her for a ride on the bike paths. She said she received multiple complaints about the unrideable trails due to things like glass and encampments. The group took off from Delano and headed toward Chapin Park. Ballard said she was surprised to find just a few homeless encampments and expected there to be more. She said the larger issue is how much glass the group came across. “The glass was really concerning. One of the main concerns is that people don’t take the bike path that way, because of the glass, you could get a flat tire or something like that. That is something that we could work on a little better is clearing the paths,” said Ballard. One rider said she valued the opportunity to see the conditions and be kind to those experiencing homelessness. “It’s just important for people to get out and see how other people live and have some empathy and show some mercy,” said Carey Hobart. Ballard said they plan on getting out and about more often to check on conditions and to see if progress is being made to clean up the bike paths.
Source: KSN-TV
New version of community group talks Neighborhood Revitalization
The revitalized Cultivators Cabinet, now called Community Connections, gathered for its inaugural meeting Thursday at the Wall Family Center to discuss Neighbor Revitalization. Sontana Johnson, Amanda Head and Lauren Shepard are leading the new group. The cabinet was set up as part of the city’s comprehensive planning process. It was to be run by residents to give citizens a forum to voice their thoughts on a variety of topics. This is a goal of the revitalized group as well. The original group lost momentum, so Johnson, Head and Shepard hope to keep the conversation fresh and bring in more voices from the community and the city’s four wards. On Thursday, Jim Zaleski, the city’s economic development director, spoke about Neighborhood Revitalization, a program offered to commercial and industrial businesses and homeowners outside of the floodplain. Neighborhood Revitalization can allow homeowners and businesses to save on property taxes for a period of time for improvements that raise the appraised value of a home or commercial or industrial building.
Source: Parsons Sun
Gearhead Curios: time travel haven on Route 66 celebrates Retro Day “every day”
Today marks National Retro Day, a time for nostalgia enthusiasts to celebrate the charm of the past. However, for one establishment nestled in the Galena part of Route 66, every day is a celebration of retro flair. Nestled along America’s historic highway, Gearhead Curios stands as a beacon of vintage treasures, many of which have been gifted to the store owner, Aaron Perry. “I get to offer an escape from reality to the people who are traveling back to nostalgic America,” said Perry. Five days a week, he welcomes visitors from across the globe to his store — people enjoying Route 66, seeking both adventure and a glimpse into the past. To recreate the ambiance of yesteryears, Perry’s creativity knows no bounds. The fireplace crafted out of a 1933 Chevy with an infinity mirror is just an example of his retro-cool with a modern twist vibe. “My ceiling is covered with license plates that travelers have gifted me,” Perry added. “And one guy stuck a dollar on the wall and told me, ‘This is how you start something.’ And now I have money from all over the world.” However, Gearhead Curios isn’t just a magnet for international travelers; it’s also a spot for locals like Gabrielle Richards, who relish the chance to witness the excitement of visitors exploring Route 66.
Source: KOAM News
More Kansas schools embrace four-day weeks
Seventy-seven school buildings in approximately 29 districts across the state have implemented a four-day week this year, up from 60 in 2023. As more Kansas public schools adapt to a shorter academic week, rural communities may see benefits. Rural school districts already contain the majority of the state’s four-day scheduled schools. “It’s been a hot topic,” said Randy Watson, KBOE Commissioner of education, in a Feb. 14 Kansas State Board of Education meeting. Watson said most districts were having discussions about the possibility of implementing four-day weeks, especially in smaller, more rural areas. Since 2011, 93 Kansas school buildings have tested a four-day schedule, although some of the districts have returned to a typical five-day schedule. First proposed as a way to save money in some districts, the four-day week also has been utilized for teacher recruitment. Kansas State Department of Education researchers examined the 2022-2023 school year population of 54 buildings using a four-day school week and 1,335 buildings using a five-day school week to compare learning outcomes. They looked at public and private elementary, middle, junior high and high schools with state assessment data for that school year. The majority of the four-week scheduled schools are in more rural areas with smaller student enrollment.
Source: KAKE – News
Chetopa Residents face grocery shopping challenges as local store closes
The only grocery store in Chetopa, Kansas is closing. Chetopa Foods and Deli, a key grocery store in Chetopa, Kansas, is set to close its doors before the end of 2024, leaving residents concerned about the impact on their community. Kevin Vaughan, an employee for three years, shared that the decision to close was made by the store’s owner, who has been preoccupied with other responsibilities. “It’s been a long time coming,” Vaughan said, noting that all employees have secured other jobs in anticipation of the closure. The owner, a New York resident and truck driver, has yet to set a specific closing date. According to Vaughan, the owner’s busy schedule has delayed the decision-making process. “He’s too busy, actually, I think, to actually sit down and think it over right now,” Vaughan explained, highlighting the owner’s split focus between his trucking duties and the store’s performance.
Source: KOAM News
County considers changing dog registration requirement, policy on ‘at-large’ animals
Riley County officials on Monday discussed potential pitfalls of proposed changes to animal control regulations. County commissioners heard from Shelley Woodard, deputy Riley County counselor, regarding changes to the regulations. The current animal control resolution was enacted in 1988, and various stakeholders are drafting policies that more closely align with those of Manhattan. Woodward said she has sought input from city and county officials. The proposed updates include removing the requirement for individual dog registration and licensing in unincorporated areas while maintaining the requirement for rabies vaccinations. She said very few people have come forward and actually registered their dogs in the past. Commissioners also are considering language in the proposed regulations regarding at-large animals. Woodard said the county doesn’t want “patrols” of people rounding up dogs that are not actually loose and uncontrolled, noting that in many rural locations dogs may be wandering around a large field and appear to be loose and at large but are actually confined to the owners property. Woodward said officials also are reviewing tethering requirements, with language that would require continuous access to food and water for any animal that is tethered in place for extended periods. Commissioners also heard discussion about policies on vicious animals.
Source: themercury.com
Municipal Bond Trends for February 27, 2024
The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of MBIS “investment grade” yields. Every issuer’s credit is different, and other financing sources may be available. To obtain comprehensive Financial Advisory services for your local government, contact your Ranson Financial Municipal Advisor, Larry Kleeman, or Henry Schmidt.
Lawrence’s plastic bag ban goes into effect Friday; here’s what you should know
The City of Lawrence ordinance banning single-use plastic bags goes into effect Friday, March 1. Here’s what you should know. Lawrence city commissioners in August 2023 approved an ordinance banning single-use plastic bags citywide. The ban, initially prompted by a class of environmentally conscious fourth graders who are now high school sophomores, was under discussion for years before commissioners approved Ordinance 9996. The ordinance aims to reduce the use of plastics in the city, which in turn could help reduce the city’s dependence on fossil fuels and prevent some pollution from the bags, contamination through microplastics from bags degrading, and animal deaths from eating the bags, among other concerns. City staff members have also said the bags are difficult to recycle and that they contaminate the materials that the city can process, recycle and compost. The city estimates that Lawrence residents use and discard more than 29 million single-use plastic bags per year. The ordinance bans establishments from giving customers plastic bags that are less than 4 mils in thickness — that’s about as thick as a piece of paper. The ban also applies to paper bags that do not contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled content. Reusable bags (or totes) made of cloth are OK. So are reusable plastic bags that are at least 4 mils in thickness, contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled material and are labeled with the post-consumer recycled content percentage, the mil thickness, and the word “reusable” on the bag. The ordinance also includes a number of exemptions for product-specific bags. That means things such as produce bags and bags to prevent cross-contamination of groceries; garment bags, such as those used for dry cleaning; bags to bring home your new pet fish and more are still OK.
Source: The Lawrence Times
City of Emporia’s drinking water places third at international water contest
The City of Emporia placed third in at the Berkeley Springs Water Tasting event, where more than 100 entries from five continents were up for consideration. The winners were announced Saturday. This is the second year in a row the city has earned a top-four finish. The competition is hosted by Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. The city took third in the Municipal Water category, behind Santa Ana, California, and the City of Montpelier, Ohio. According to a written release, the municipal water category saw a U.S. sweep, from the West Coast to the East Coast, and all three medalists have formerly been awarded Gold. “The consistency in winners from year to year with different panels of judges validates the choices,” said watermaster Arthur von Wiesenberger. “It also speaks to the impressively high caliber of the waters entered.” Berkeley Springs Water Tasting Event said the waters were rated for each attribute including appearance (it should be clear — or slightly opaque for glacial waters), aroma (there should be none), taste (it should taste clean), mouth feel (it should feel light), aftertaste (it should leave you thirsty for more).
Source: Emporia Gazette