Kansas Municipal News
Lawrence City Commission to discuss changes to controversial sidewalk repair program
City leaders will soon discuss some new ideas for sidewalk repair, including the creation of a sidewalk insurance program and a potential city takeover of maintenance responsibilities. The Lawrence City Commission requested to reconsider the city’s sidewalk maintenance program earlier this year, and the commission will discuss the potential changes as part of its work session Tuesday. Some residents have voiced strong opposition to the program, which generally requires homeowners and other property owners to pay to repair city sidewalks that border their property.
Read more: LJWorld.com.
Topeka ordering non-union workers to take 5 unpaid days off
The City of Topeka is requiring its 285 non-union employees to take five unpaid days off to help cut the city’s costs in the wake of financial struggles tied to the coronavirus pandemic. City spokeswoman Molly Hadfield told the Topeka Capital-Journal that the employees must take the five days between June 13 and Sept. 18. City Manager Brent Trout last month eliminated the jobs held by the deputy city manager, neighborhood relations director and emergency management coordinator. Trout, the mayor and city council members also cut their own pay by 6%. The city is also considering changes in healthcare coverage for union employees.
(Read more: KSNT News)
Wichita plans to double emergency fund as COVID-19 expenses near million-dollar mark
Having already spent almost all of the $1 million set aside for Wichita’s response to coronavirus COVID-19, the city is poised to double its emergency fund to fight the disease. A request to put an additional $1 million into the fund will come before the Wichita City Council on Tuesday and Mayor Brandon Whipple said he doesn’t expect any opposition. “The thought moving forward is we’re going to be able to be reimbursed for this money,” Whipple said. “Our staff are conservative enough with their interpretations (of what’s reimbursable) to where we can feel confident about it.
(Read more: Local News |)
Sedgwick County Expands COVID-19 Testing To Better Gauge Community Health
Sedgwick County is using three strategies for COVID-19 testing to get a better sense of disease spread in the community. The county opened up its free testing to people who don’t have any COVID-19 symptoms, began a random testing program and created a mobile testing unit to reach vulnerable populations. Until now, the county health department, working under guidelines set by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), used strict criteria to determine who was eligible for an appointment for testing.
(Read more: RSS Feed)
Kansas Governor Poised To Trade Some Emergency Powers To Keep Her COVID Orders
A deal forged by the governor and legislative leaders extends the Kansas disaster declaration in response to the coronavirus through September, for now ending what’s become a partisan conflict. The bill lets Gov. Laura Kelly keep some of her powers to respond to the coronavirus, like delaying deadlines for things such as filing taxes or renewing drivers licenses. The plan gives legislators more control over extending the disaster declaration and reviewing new orders. “A compromise position. A position that still allows the governor to operate,” Republican Rep. Fred Patton told the House this week.
(Read more: RSS Feed)
Butler community reacts to EduCare Center shuttering
The announcement that Butler Community College is terminating its EduCare Center program has been a source of shock and sadness throughout the community. The college announced the closure of the program earlier this month citing unpredictability of service because of COVID-19 and budget difficulties. “This business decision was made with a very heavy heart, but with looming budget cuts and the unpredictability of COVID-19 outbreaks, it was necessary,” Dean of Health, Education and Public Services Christy Streeter said in an email to parents on Monday, June 1. “We realize EduCare has had a positive impact at Butler and on the families and communities we have served over the years and that its closure is a loss for all.”
(Read more: andoveramerican.com)
Amidst budget concerns, advocates push for medical marijuana legalization
According to the Kansas Division of Budget, the state is expecting to face a $653 million shortfall in fiscal year 2021, this includes a projected $1.3 billion loss in tax revenue. Proponents of legalizing marijuana in the state say marijuana sales tax revenue could help. “With a budget that’s just absolutely destroyed in the state of Kansas, it would be something that would very much help with multiple different things,” said J. Andrew Ericson Sr., President of the Kansas Cannabis Business Association. Ericson points to Oklahoma as a state that the KCBA is looking to emulate with medical marijuana legislation. According to the Oklahoma state government website, the state brought in more than $39 million in medical marijuana revenue so far in June 2020. Colorado, which has legal medicinal and recreational marijuana, brought in more than $300 million in revenue in 2019. The KCBA estimates that Kansas could bring in approximately $200 million in revenue over 5 years.
(Read more: KSN-TV)
Mulvane City Council votes to reopen community venues, reevaluates pool opening
Mulvane City Council’s meeting last week included plans for reopening two community venues and reevaluation of opening the city pool, which the council decided for the second time to keep closed for the year. The council voted to allow the Mulvane Senior Center to open as early as June 8, with reopening plans and dates left up to the director of the senior center. The council said the center should follow “food service industry best practices” and comply with “the Ad Astra Plan guidelines for distancing and serving food” while also taking into account the health safety of volunteers, workers and patrons.
(Read more: Area | derbyinformer.com)
Pittsburg gives update on facility restrictions, event cancellations including July 4 fireworks
Although Gov. Laura Kelly’s stay-at-home order and phased reopening plan are no longer in effect statewide, and Crawford County has not issued a countywide order to replace them, local municipalities have the authority to implement their own coronavirus safety measures. The City of Pittsburg released an update Monday on its current plans.
While many public spaces are reopening, the City of Pittsburg is suspending access to some city facilities and cancelling large-scale events, including the city fireworks display and July 4th Celebration in Lincoln Park.
“The City of Pittsburg has and will continue to operate regardless of the circumstances,” according to the release. “All closures and cancellations, while inconvenient, are intended to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus and keep our employees and community safe.”
(Read more: Community – Morning Sun)
Sedgwick County looking at antibody testing for coronavirus
Sedgwick County commissioners have delayed a decision on whether to provide antibody testing for the coronavirus.
The county’s health officer, Dr. Garold Minns, told commissioners that he has talked with other health officials in Wichita and Kansas City and they have no confidence in the testing. He said it’s not known how they would be used, and the tests cannot determine if someone has immunity from COVID-19. Dr. Minns said the tests have not been validated by independent labs, and it would not be a good use of taxpayer money to fund a test where doctors would not know what the results mean.
County commissioners plan more discussions at their June 17th meeting. The county is calling residents at random this week to set up appointments for nasal swab testing. This program is intended to get an idea of the spread of coronavirus across the county.
(Read more: KFDI 101.3)
Counties still following Ad Astra Plan move into Phase 3 Monday
Governor Laura Kelly said those still following the state’s Ad Astra Plan for reopening can move into Phase 3 tomorrow – meaning gathering limits can increase to 45. This comes as reopening decisions have been placed on individual counties and many, including Sedgwick, have only issued guidance and not hard rules. The Kansas Division of Emergency Management is keeping track on each county’s reopening plan with a website. The website shows that 42 counties are still following the governor’s plan.
(Read more: KWCH News)
Local bars reopen as Shawnee County enters phase 3 of reopening plan
On Monday, phase three of the reopening plan will begin in Shawnee County and local bars can once again allow customers to come back through their doors for a cold one. Topeka’s Speck’s has been closed since March 18th, a tough challenge to take on for any small business but they’ve made it through and now will start getting things back to normal. Shawnee county is keeping the restriction on people, up to 50% capacity or 45 people total, and the owners say that masks will be work by employees at all times as well as temperature checks before their works come inside. In the end, they’re more excited to just get back and see their customers that feel more like friends.
(Read more: KSNT News)
Superintendent says goodbye to Goessel community
Most people who live in Goessel and those who have attended the Goessel Unified School District 411 in the last 24 years know who John Fast is. The soft-spoken man who clearly loves all things education as well as the town of Goessel, has spent most of his career teaching and being an administrator in the small town. Fast worked in education for 38 years. He started his career teaching fourth-grade science in Wichita and taught there for two years. Fast then went to Halstead for 12 years teaching elementary and middle school science and working as a curriculum director. In the fall of 1996, Fast made the move to Goessel where he started as the elementary principal. He added the role of superintendent in the fall of 2004. Fast speaks fondly of his 24 years working at Goessel.
(Read more: Hillsboro Free Press)
$3.75M federal grant will help City of Lawrence purchase its first zero-emission buses
Lawrence transit officials say a federal grant to purchase the city’s first fully electric buses is a step in the right direction for the city’s sustainability goals and for eventually converting the city’s fleet of diesel buses. The Federal Transit Administration has awarded the city a $3.75 million federal grant to purchase zero- or low-emission buses. Transit and Parking Manager Adam Weigel said the grant, which requires a local match of $2.2 million, would enable the city to replace five diesel buses with zero-emission electric buses, purchase charging stations and work with the nonprofit Center for Transportation and the Environment to plan and evaluate the program.
Read more: LJWorld.com.
Municipal Bond Trends for June 5, 2020
The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of MBIS “investment grade” yields. Every issuer’s credit is different. For rates that may be applicable to your municipality, contact our Municipal Bond Advisors, Larry Kleeman and Beth Warren.
The City of Merriam Enters Phase 3 on June 8
The City of Merriam will enter Phase 3 of the state’s Ad Astra reopening plan on Monday, June 8. All City facilities, playgrounds, and sports courts will reopen to the public. The Irene B. French Community Center will remain closed as the City prepares to open the Merriam Community Center later this month. Phase 3 of the Ad Astra plan recommends gatherings of 45 people or less. Residents are encouraged to wear masks inside City buildings and at playgrounds, practice physical distancing of 6 feet or more, use hand sanitizer if unable to wash hands with soap and water, and to avoid touching your face.
(Read more: Merriam, KS news)
Retail, residential development approved in Gardner
Grata Development received rezoning approval from the Gardner City Council for a $200 million mixed-use development located at the southeast corner of 175th St. and I-35 in Gardner. According to the press release, the 262-acre development comprises retail (New Trails), multifamily (Prairie Forge) and single-family housing (Prairie Trace). “We are grateful for the partnership we have formed with the city staff and elected officials in Gardner to bring this exciting project to life. The goal of the New Trails Project is to provide amenities for people to enjoy life together as they live, work and play,” said Travis Schram, Grata Development president.
(Read more: Gardner News)
Hutchinson demonstration remains peaceful despite rumors of counter-protest
Multiple peaceful demonstrations were held on Saturday across the state of Kansas. In Hutchinson, a group of protesters walked along 25th and main street despite the hot sun. “It’s very hot and I’m especially very proud of everyone for sticking with it,” said Teresa Delgado, rally organizer. Protesters took a knee for more than eight minutes, the time a Minneapolis officer had his knee on George Floyd before his death.
(Read more: KSN-TV)
Hutchinson announces Small Business Emergency Relief program
The City of Hutchinson has been approved for $132,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds, allowing it to establish a Small Business Emergency Relief Grant Program. Applications are now being accepted for the program which will assist small businesses of up to 50 employees who employ people from low- to medium-income households. Businesses must have at least 51% of its employees who fall within household income guidelines and submit an Employee Certification form for each employee.
(Read more: Local – The Hutchinson News)
Three area police departments receive grants to hire officers
Three area police departments received grants from through the U.S. Attorney’s office to hire Community Policing officer. Area departments receiving grants included: Cheney Police Department, $250,000; Hesston Police Department, $125,000; and Pratt Police Department: $125,000. The grants, which went to 15 departments in Kansas, were part of nearly $400 million nationwide for law enforcement hiring announced by the Department of Justice, through its Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP).
(Read more: Local – The Hutchinson News)
Topeka city government furloughs non-union employees
As part of an ongoing effort to cut costs, Topeka’s city government is requiring non-union employees to spend five days on furlough, the city’s spokeswoman said this past week. Non-union employees, of which the city has 285, must take five unpaid days off between June 13 and Sept. 18, said Molly Hadfield, the city’s media relations director. But the city is no longer seriously considering asking groups of employees to accept pay cuts, city manager Brent Trout said this past week at the monthly news conference he holds with Mayor Michelle De La Isla. “In the sense of specific salary percentage reductions, I think that that probably is not something that we’ll look at,” Trout said. “We’ve been studying the issue and looking at things and we believe that if there’s changes that need to be made, that furloughs is a better option.”
(Read more: Local – The Topeka Capital-Journal)
Counter protest by white supremacists fails to materialize at Hutchinson event
Jarin Berger said he may have overprepared with 600 water bottles in an ice tub outside his home for the roughly 75 people who marched in support of social justice down Main Street in Hutchinson on Saturday. Despite concerns about potential violence from protesters and counter-protests from white supremacists that led to several businesses being boarded up, the event went off without a hitch. All along the route, police stopped to block off traffic at intersections and every couple blocks someone handed out water to chanting protesters. “I just wanted to let them know they were welcome here and we just thought water would be the best way,” Berger said, adding 600 water bottles was too much. “But, I mean it’s got all of our neighbors out. We are all kinda banding together and helping out so. That’s kinda what it’s all about.”
Read more: Local News |)
County health officer sounds a warning as COVID-19 numbers rise in Wichita area
Sedgwick County’s health officer is raising concerns that the Wichita area may have moved too fast to fully reopen the economy amid the coronavirus pandemic. He’s recommending a retreat to an early phase of health precautions to prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Dr. Garold Minns is recommending backing up to Phase 2 of the “Ad Astra Plan,” Gov. Laura Kelly’s now-abandoned effort for a slower, more deliberate reopening after two months of strict stay-at-home orders and mass gathering limits.
(Read more: Local News |)
Kansas county baling straw to help curb ‘banner year’ for blue-green algae
Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, it may soon be time to bale. Pun intended. With this week’s oppressive heat wave cranking up water temperatures across the state, the annual battle between pond and lake managers and the scourge of blue-green algae is right on our doorstep. After seeing an earlier-than-normal outbreak of blue-green algae in April at Lake Shawnee, three Shawnee County waterways are now taking part in an experimental pilot program attempting to allay the threat of future blue-green algae outbreaks this summer.
(Read more: Pittsburg Morning Sun)
Shawnee anticipates $8 million drop in general fund revenues for upcoming budget
Shawnee city staff and leaders considered ways to to reduce expenses while continuing to provide services for the community, during a council discussion on how the budget could be affected by a potential second wave of COVD-19. In a presentation to the city council on the upcoming budget, city management and department heads discussed the impact of COVID-19 on city services as well as ways the city has significantly reduced expenses to accommodate the loss in revenue. City staff anticipate a roughly $8 million drop in tax revenues and other miscellaneous revenues in the general fund this year, from about $55.6 million to roughly $47.9 million, especially with the possibility of a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic later this year. City staff expect revenues to increase again next year.
(Read more: Prairie Village Post)
Louisburg approves use of UTVs, golf carts on streets
Owners of UTVs and golf carts can drive their vehicles on Louisburg streets under certain conditions and speed limitations. The Louisburg City Council voted 5-0 in late May to allow work-site utility vehicles, utility task vehicles and golf carts to be operated inside the city limits. UTV owners must register their vehicles with the Louisburg Police Department and purchase a city-issued tag to display on the vehicle. UTVs can be operated on any highway, street or roadway in Louisburg that has a posted speed limit of 45 mph or less. Utility vehicles must have bench or bucket-style seats. Vehicles that require the driver to straddle the seat are not allowed.
(Read more: The Miami County Republic)
KDHE looks to open schools
Kansas remains optimistic that its school buildings will reopen in the fall. However, the lingering impact of COVID-19 will impact the opening in a variety of ways. Kansas schools will have to be prepared for any scenario that comes their way in the fall. Kansas Commissioner of Education Randy Watson, Ed.D., assembled a task force in May to develop comprehensive guidance for safely reopening school buildings and for ensuring the continuity of academic rigor and assessment in the event school is interrupted for any reason.
(Read more: News – The Hutchinson News)
Winfield’s Walnut Valley bluegrass music festival postponed due to coronavirus
The Winfield festival known for its bluegrass and other music is being postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic. Walnut Valley Festival organizers announced on Thursday that the 2020 festival will be postponed until September 2021 due to public health recommendations on mass gatherings.
(Read more: Local News |)
Two men arrested for social media post that urged violence in Wichita-area neighborhoods
Wichita police have arrested two men over a widely circulated social media post that urged violence and looting in suburban neighborhoods while peaceful protests calling for an end to police brutality were ongoing Wednesday evening. Announcement of the arrests sparked immediate outcry on social media from people saying at least one of the men only shared the post, reportedly a screenshot from Snapchat, to warn others.
(Read more: Local News |)
Feared rioting in smaller towns does not materialize
Misinformation fueled fear of looting and rioting in parts of Sedgewick and Butler County on Wednesday night. Despite rumors of mass looting and rioting that was said to be headed down HWY-254 and into El Dorado, none of it happened. The city remained quiet and the adjourning cities mirrored the silence. That did not stop many from taking to social media, in fear of what could happen to their town.
(Read more: State News – Morning Sun)
Local chiefs laud their agencies in wake of unrest
The heads of local law enforcement agencies touted their community-policing efforts and treatment of local citizens after being asked about the police killing of George Floyd that has trigged widespread civil unrest across the nation. … Winfield Police Chief Robbie DeLong said his department is developing new and unique community outreach projects, and has participated in several events in recent years, including a celebration of Laotian residents at Island Park.
(Read more: The Arkansas City Traveler)
Ark City considers tightening leash law
Arkansas City Commissioners are looking at revising a city ordinance that regulates allowing dogs to run at large. The current municipal code allows a dog to be off the leash if under the owner’s voice control. The code also permits dogs to roam and be on a property without the owner’s permission, as long as the dog remains under the control of its owner. The proposed ordinance revision will remove the voice control option, prohibit dogs from running at large within the city, and require all dogs be on a leash.
(Read more: The Arkansas City Traveler)
Reno County Stepping Up Council recognized
The Stepping Up Council of Reno County was created almost two years ago to find alternatives to incarceration for people with mental illness, co-occurring substance use disorders or developmental disabilities who encounter the criminal justice system for low-level offenses. This month, the group, formed by members of nearly a dozen local agencies and organizations, achieved a milestone by being named an Innovator County by the national Stepping Up Initiative.
(Read more: Local – The Hutchinson News)
Eudora starts esports league through Parks and Recreation Department; Lawrence says one could be on the way
Esports leagues through city Parks and Recreation departments are on the rise, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the founder of the new esports league in Eudora. When the pandemic began, Jimmy Kegin, assistant director of Eudora Parks and Recreation, began a “virtual recreation center” for the city, with links to cooking projects, art projects and more. Then Kegin, a gamer himself, realized that now was the perfect time to start an esports league. “We are all looking for some way to program, somehow, some way,” he said, and with esports leagues, adults and youth can participate from their own homes.
Read more: LJWorld.com.
City of Lawrence announces new director of planning and development services
City Manager Craig Owens announced Wednesday that Jeff Crick will be the new planning and development services director for the City of Lawrence-Douglas County Planning and Development Services Department. Crick joined city staff in 2013 and has served as the planning manager for the department since 2018, according to a city news release. Owens said in the release that he was excited for Crick to take on the new role. “He has demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment to the important services provided by the department and an openness to look at these functions with a fresh perspective,” Owens said.
Read more: LJWorld.com.
Municipal Bond Trends for June 4, 2020
The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of MBIS “investment grade” yields. Every issuer’s credit is different. For rates that may be applicable to your municipality, contact our Municipal Bond Advisors, Larry Kleeman and Beth Warren.
Kansas-native NASCAR driver helps support Kansas farmers
For Clint Bowyer, growing up in Kansas meant opportunity. The son of a tow truck driver, Bowyer learned early on the power of hard work. This Sunday, Bowyer takes the wheel of his No. 14 Ford race car at the NASCAR Cup Series race in Atlanta. Busch-sponsored driver Kevin Harvick is teaming up with the Emporia native to race in the same corn-themed paint scheme. With this campaign, Anheuser-Busch for the first time is joining Farm Rescue to help Kansas farmers. The car’s corn motif represents Kansas. The company will donate a percentage of proceeds from Busch-Light beer to Farm Rescue – an organization that helps farmers in need.
(Read more: Community – Morning Sun)
Peaceful protest planned at Gardner city hall Saturday
The Gardner protest organizer has been in communication with the Gardner Police Department. “They are very intent on a peaceful protest. We are going to be there to assist and help facilitate the protest,” said Jay Belcher, police chief. The event is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. at city hall. Members plan to walk eastbound on the sidewalks, not in the street, from city hall to Moonlight Rd. where they will turn around and go back to city hall. Upon arrival at city hall, members will have a quick prayer and then they will have the opportunity to interact with officers sharing thoughts, ideas and experiences, Belcher said.
(Read more: Gardner News)
City addresses water billing concerns
Water usage by Great Bend residents and concerns over how the city bills customers were on tap during the City Council meeting Monday night. Administrator Kendal Francis explained the procedure and assured all present that the city is dedicated to better relations with residents, and resolving issues swiftly and fairly.
The discussion was sparked in part by the concerns of a Great Bend water customer. Loralei Weller alleged her bills were too high and overage charges inaccurate, and that she received poor customer service from city employees at the Front Door facility when she lodged her complaint.
The city has also been taken to task via social media, Francis said.
(Read more: Great Bend Tribune)
Primary municipal bond market sees strong demand
After an impressive rally in May, municipal participants have hit a pause button, particularly as U.S. Treasury yields rise, pushing municipal to UST relative value ratios lower. “Instead, it appears the focus has shifted to primary offerings, which are being well received and seeing strong demand at the expense of secondary market flows,” said Greg Saulnier, managing analyst, U.S. Municipal Bonds Refinitiv (TM3/MMD). “Underlying factors look to be favorable, including manageable supply, summer redemptions/coupon payments, and back-to-back weeks of inflows.”
(Read more: The Bond Buyer)
Fed Expands Municipal-Lending Facility to (a few) More Localities
The Federal Reserve said it would again broaden the number of local governments eligible for a new lending program as Illinois announced it would be the first borrower to access the facility. The central bank said Wednesday it would allow all 50 states to designate two cities or counties to sell debts directly to the central bank’s program, creating an option for states with less populous municipalities to participate. Many state and local governments are facing cash crises as the coronavirus pandemic has crushed both their tax intake and driven an increase in their spending. The central bank also said state governors will be able to designate an additional two issuers whose revenues are derived from operating activities, such as airports, toll facilities, utilities or public transit, to be eligible to use the facility on their own. The changes could allow more than 380 issuers, up from around 260 before the latest changes, to access the emergency-lending program, which was first announced in April.
Read more: Wall Street Journal.
In a time of unrest, the Garden City community comes together as one with the GCPD in a ‘Unity Gathering’
The nation is experiencing a time of unrest as cities are plagued by protests, riots, and violence over the death of George Floyd. However, in Garden City, the community is bringing to light racial injustice but in a unique way. It’s not a protest but a unity gathering. Unification amongst diversification is the goal as the Garden City community is making its voice heard. “One of the things I’ve really appreciated about being in Garden City for the last year and a half now, is it seems like it’s such a beautiful melting pot of different cultures,” said the lead pastor at Bible Christian Church, Brian Wilson.
(Read more: KSN-TV)
Municipal Bond Trends for June 3, 2020
The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of MBIS “investment grade” yields. Every issuer’s credit is different. For rates that may be applicable to your municipality, contact our Municipal Bond Advisors, Larry Kleeman and Beth Warren.
Kansas Attorney General Opinion 2020-7: Ranked-choice voting methodology
Synopsis: Article 4, § 1 of the Kansas Constitution prescribes the methods by which votes may be cast but is silent on the method to be used for allocating votes and therefore does not prohibit the use of ranked-choice voting methodology.
(Read more: Kansas Attorney General Opinions)
Burrton considers how to attract new housing
At Monday night’s meeting, Mayor Rodney Redinger told the Burrton City Council that he saw the issue as central to “the survivability of our town, and our school, quite frankly.” Redinger announced that he had been “meeting with some potential builders, basically trying to get some new housing started.” Redinger also shared that city staff have been surveying individuals that commute to Burrton for work to learn what might entice them to live in town. Council member Jason Froese said he had also looked into development, as he personally wished to build in town.
(Read more: Harvey County Now)