Municipal News & Jobs

Douglas County commissioners on Wednesday voted to expand a property tax rebate program with a goal of offering further assistance to seniors with low incomes and veterans who are disabled. A pilot program rolled out last year. About 81% of the 135 applicants were eligible. They received an average rebate of $281, with the maximum set at $300, and the county gave almost $31,000 total back to taxpayers, according to documents in the meeting agenda. County commissioners approved $500,000 in their budget to offset the cost of rebates, so the value of all rebates came to less than 1% of the funds set aside. For 2026, county staff members proposed increasing the maximum rebate to $400, or the county’s portion of the person’s property taxes if that amount is lower than $400.
Read more: The Lawrence Times

Marysville’s black squirrel ordinance, adopted in 1972, directs the mayor “at nut-gathering time” to proclaim an annual Black Squirrel Day. Through the decades the celebration has appeared under different names — Black Squirrel Day, Black Squirrel Fun Night and Black Squirrel Night. With a full slate of activities and a nod to traditions of years past, this year’s community celebration is Black Squirrel Fall Fest.
Read more: www.marysvilleonline.net

When the Colby City Council meets to discuss a new STAR bond project on Oct. 8, 2025, they will have to vote on the proposal without seeing the full feasibility study done by the Kansas Department of Commerce. This is because Commerce requires governing bodies to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to receive the entire study. If they decline, they’re given a summary. Colby City Manager Ron Alexander told The Sentinel in a phone interview that he declined to do so because he was uncomfortable with the requirement.
Read more: The Sentinel

A new collaboration will give students in Dodge City and southwest Kansas expanded access to the transformative power of a bachelor’s degree — all from the comfort and support of their hometown region. Combining the breadth and depth of a traditional four-year university with the homegrown reach and accessibility of a two-year community college, Dodge City Community College and Kansas State University are teaming up to expand access to bachelor’s degree programs in agriculture and education.
Read more: themercury.com

News of layoffs at Iola’s Gates Corporation plant hit hard last week. After learning that 80 employees will soon lose their jobs, local leaders immediately went to work attempting to turn crisis into opportunity. Within hours, Thrive Allen County’s Camille Lavon was on the phone with company officials and state partners, mapping out a plan to keep the 80 soon-to-be-displaced employees working close to home. 
Read more: The Iola Register

While the incumbents gave various reasons for stepping down, the increasing polarization and hostility around issues in the city, in some ways mirroring national trends, are discouraging them from staying any longer.
Read more: KC Star

Derek Raines asked for a moratorium and a noise resolution regarding the bitcoin mining natural gas generators near his property… Raines said that the stress of having the constant noise is taking a toll on him and his family. Neighbor Kimberly Sparks lives 3/4 of a mile away and can hear the humming and feel the vibration constantly. “It’s very upsetting,” she said. Commissioner Milburn said she had contacted the administration of Jefferson County to get their information on how they handled this issue.
Read more: Fort Scott Biz

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of AA rated bond trades reported to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s EMMA® system. 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.

Kansas state law allows candidates for local office in large cities such as Wichita to accept $2,000 political contributions while the city of Wichita’s ordinance caps that amount at $500. Confusion over changes to Kansas campaign finance law has led to accusations of wrongdoing and a return of campaign donations in a Wichita City Council primary.
Read more: Wichita Eagle

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of AA rated bond trades reported to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s EMMA® system. 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.

The Kansas Public Employees Retirement System is undergoing a five-year, $74 million modernization project. The new system aims to be easier to use for members, employers and staff. The project, which is on schedule and on budget, is expected to be completed by November 2029.
Read more: CJonline

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of AA rated bond trades reported to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s EMMA® system. 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.

Carissa McMullen and Nathan Harrell of Landworks Studio presented the Parks Master Plan at the Sedgwick City Council Meeting on Wednesday evening. McMullen said that the purpose of the plan is to present the vision for the future. Since April, Landworks has attended local events, visited with residents about what they want to see happen with their parks, and conducted online surveys. They then used the feedback to develop the plan, according to McMullen.
Read more: Harvey County Now

Accessing long-term stable housing is a challenge for many, and one Kansas nonprofit is providing those homes to people working to get back on their feet. In February, the McPherson Housing Coalition opened up the first home in its Sutherland Estates project. Now there are seven houses there. The project offers long-term supportive housing. “They are based on income, and it really gives people or a person an opportunity to start over or for somebody who just got their first job and they can’t afford to live in our community,” explained Chris Goodson, Executive Director of the McPherson Housing Coalition. The homes vary from one bedroom to three, which offers a more permanent supportive housing solution to keep families together, which Goodson says is a first for Kansas.
Read more: KSN-TV

Given the unpredictability of the economy and the ongoing possibility of a recession, Kansas could see a cooling off in the labor market and in gross domestic product, according to the Center for Economic Development and Business Research’s annual economist forecast revealed Thursday morning at the organization’s annual conference. “It’s very much a story of a slowdown,” said Bekah Selby-Leach, the executive director for the CEDBR at Wichita State University. “Everybody, all the businesses, individuals, are starting to make choices which are more consistent with uncertainty.”
Read more: Wichita Business Journal

Arkansas City commissioners will consider action Tuesday that if approved, will give the county responsibility for the activation of warning sirens within the city limits. A previous memorandum designated the city as the primary activator with the county providing backup support. But the commission cut the Emergency Management Coordinator position from the city budget, starting next year. City officials said those duties would be filled in by Cowley County Emergency Management and other city departments.
Read more: www.ctnewsonline.com

When Hesston High School came calling, for John Waltner, it was a no-brainer. Waltner saw a chance to give back with a hobby and his mobile “My Happy Place” was installed in the brand new . library on Oct. 2. Waltner has his work hanging at various places and enjoys making larger works of art for bigger spaces.
Read more: Harvey County Now

For 50 years, when someone in Johnson County has dialed 911, Med-Act has answered. Behind every call are neighbors — paramedics, EMTs and first responders — ready to bring calm, care, and skill in life’s most urgent moments. As part of the Johnson County Department of Emergency Services, Med-Act has become a cornerstone of the community, working alongside fire departments, hospitals, and law enforcement to keep residents safe. Partnering with eight fire departments and eight hospitals, Johnson County Med-Act ensures that anyone facing a medical crisis receives the best care possible. Over its half-century of service, the organization has earned national recognition, including the American Heart Association’s Mission Lifeline EMS Gold Achievement Award and the Kansas Association of EMS Services Community Award for its response to the Super Bowl Parade shootings.
Read more: Johnson County Post

In less than a year, Kansas City will host six games as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the roughly monthlong event, an estimated 650,000 visitors will descend on the metro area looking for places to stay, grab a bite and enjoy local entertainment. Here’s a look at a handful of real estate projects in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties that are aiming to open in time for the international tournament.
Read more: Kansas City Business Journal

Step into the 1950s with Crest Theater as it celebrates the 75th anniversary of its grand opening. The 75th anniversary celebration will kick off with a ribbon-cutting on Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. at the Crest Theater. On November 9, the theater will present two showings of the 1960 film “Two Weeks With Love,” starring Jane Powell and Ricardo Montalban. Doors open at 1 p.m. with screenings beginning at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Admission is $1 for all ages, reminiscent of the original 1950 ticket cost of 65 cents for the show and 35 cents for popcorn.
Read more: KSN-TV

The state has announced grants for small towns to attract new residents. Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson announced $1.5 million in grants for the Home in the Heartland program, which was created by the Kansas Legislature in 2025 to encourage new residents and boost local economies. The state says that many Kansas towns are losing people, which limits their growth and economic stability. These grants give local leaders extra funds to create their own recruitment efforts, the state said in a news release.
Read more: KSN-TV

Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department is celebrating the arrival of its newest firetruck, Engine 53. To mark the milestone, the department is hosting a Push-In Ceremony on Oct. 7, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the fire station located at 115 S. D Street. This tradition dates back to the 1800s, when firefighters would push their horse-drawn wagons back into the firehouse after returning from a call.
Read more: KSN-TV

BBQ served up fresh, all for a good cause. It’s the annual “Back the Badge” event this morning, outside the American Bank in Baxter Springs. The fundraiser helps to raise money for needed purchases like equipment, uniforms, and gear for Reserve Law Enforcement Officers in Baxter Springs and Cherokee County. It’s also a way for these officers and the community to get to know each other.
Read more: KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com

Allen County Regional Hospital administrator Pat Patton sees a strong case for voters’ renewal of a quarter-cent sales tax extension in the November election. Proceeds would go towards support of the hospital It’s a perfect time for William “Pat” Patton to reflect on the state of Allen County Regional Hospital.  Just over a year ago, Patton was named administrator of both Allen County Regional Hospital and Anderson County Hospital in Garnett. He’s seen enough to know what Allen County Regional does well, and how it can improve. But there’s another reason to examine our local hospital. In a month, voters will decide whether to extend a quarter-cent sales tax used to support Allen County Regional Hospital. In place since 2010, the sales tax comes before voters for renewal every five years.
Read more: The Iola Register

From afar, they can look like large collections of plants, growing out of the lake and shooting toward the sky, but there’s a little more to the flora popping up on some Overland Park lakes. Called floating wetlands, these man-made mini islands of native Kansas plants are intended to balance the water’s ecosystem and keep harmful algae blooms at bay. Overland Park is now adding more of them to lakes at city parks.
Read more: Johnson County Post

A go-cart driver, traveling illegally on Atchison streets, now faces a number of charges, including that related to his alleged escape from police. Early this year, the Atchison approved the use of certain UTVs but the ordinance, though, does not allow other, similar vehicles, to be ridden on streets, including golf carts, atv’s, and go-carts.
Read more: MSC News

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of AA rated bond trades reported to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s EMMA® system. 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.

The district court correctly concluded that the Code does not regulate the number of residential structures per lot through its definitions section. … our construction of the “duplex” definition aligns with that of the district court; we concur that the Code does not restrict the development of such structures to one per lot.
Read the decision: KS Court of Appeals: First Presbyterian Church v. City of Lawrence

K.S.A. 21-6002(b)(2) provides that "[u]pon conviction of official misconduct a public officer or employee shall forfeit such officer or employee’s office or employment." Because the forfeiture is tied to the offense, and the offense is tied to the abuse of a specific position, the forfeiture is limited to the position held when the offense was committed. Cited herein: K.S.A. 21-6001; 21-6002.
Read more: Kansas Attorney General Opinion 2025-23

Zack Daniel said his top goals are encouraging intentional commercial development and supporting residential growth as he takes over as city manager. Last month, the commission announced it had selected Daniel as the new city manager. His contract will be finalized in the next few weeks. 
Read more: The Eudora Times
He said the city has seen its “baked in advantages” help make it attractive to development. It has easy access along K-10 and swaths of developable land are available in the city and just outside the city limits. Those assets, along with the city’s strong community character, made developers take notice, and Daniel believes the regional spotlight is something Eudora can capitalize on.
Read more: LJWorld

The city of Pittsburg held its State of the City event … Mayor Dawn McNay spoke at the event, sharing many new projects, buildings, and initiatives happening within the community, which include a new KBI crime lab, street improvements like lighting and asphalt renovations, and housing developments for residents of all income levels—especially those in lower economic brackets.
Read more: KSNF/KODE

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of AA rated bond trades reported to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s EMMA® system. 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.

The State of Kansas initiated an application for the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation (RFT) Program, which was created in the Reconciliation Bill to direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to work with states to identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers. Kansas providers are estimated to receive approximately $1 billion over the next five years.
Read more: The Sunflower State Radio Network

Large-scale facility matters have been a significant talking point for USD 251 North Lyon County for well over a decade, and the district has started a patron survey as part of its latest round of community conversations. On KVOE’s Morning Show on Monday, Superintendent Bob Blair says the overall goal is to ensure the district’s sustainability well into the future.
Read more: KVOE

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation raided multiple locations across the state Wednesday, including at least two businesses in Great Bend, as part of a crackdown on businesses selling hemp products containing THC. Search warrants were served at multiple businesses within city limits.
Read more: Great Bend Tribune

Munis were a touch firmer out long in Wednesday’s trading, as U.S. Treasury yields fell and equities ended up. The two-year muni-UST ratio Tuesday was at 65%, the five-year at 63%, the 10-year at 71% and the 30-year at 89%, according to Municipal Market Data’s 3 p.m. EDT read. ICE Data Services had the two-year at 62%, the five-year at 61%, the 10-year at 70% and the 30-year at 89% at a 3 p.m. read. The Investment Company Institute Wednesday reported inflows of $1.114 billion for the week ending Sept. 24, following $1.138 billion of inflows the previous week. This is the third consecutive week that inflows topped $1 billion.
Read more: Bond Buyer

If any doubts remained about whether the Federal Reserve will be lowering its key interest rate later this month, the budget loggerheads a few blocks away in the nation’s capital may have cemented the move. Particularly if the impasse stretches out past a few days, Chair Jerome Powell and his fellow central bankers likely will err on the side of caution, which in this case would be a bias towards easing, Wall Street experts say.
Read more: CNBC

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $23 million is available to improve broadband infrastructure through the Broadband Acceleration Grant (BAG) program. Grants up to $1 million will be awarded to offset the capital expenses providers need to deploy service in unserved areas of Kansas. In its fifth year through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant program aims to provide high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing unserved areas, economically distressed communities and areas of compelling need.
Read more: Kansas Department of Commerce

In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday directed flags be flown at half-staff on all state buildings, grounds, and facilities from sunup to sundown on Friday, October 3, 2025, in honor of Hays Police Sergeant Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on September 28, 2025. “For nearly a decade, Sergeant Heimann was committed to protecting those in Hays, and he made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “His sacrifice is a debt that we will never forget or be able to repay. My sincere condolences go out to his family and loved ones as they mourn this tragedy, and to all Kansans as we grieve our state’s fourth line-of-duty death in the last three months.”
Read more: Ad Astra Radio

After weeks of waiting for answers, the City of Newton received a summary of test results for the mystery gas emissions at the Fox Ridge Development. In August, Kansas Gas Service detected a flammable gas in the soil while conducting testing at the new development situated on top of the former Fox Ridge Golf Course. The detection of the gas prompted county and state emergency declarations, evacuations, as well as gas service being shut off to 30 households. KDHE contracted a service to test the gas, and after weeks, the city has an answer as to what it is: methane.
“They state that there is no hazard to human health,” City Director of Communications Erin McDaniel said. “The primary source of the methane is from the breakdown of plant material in the soil.”
Read more: Harvey County Now

Flock cameras have returned to Harvey County. Halstead, Bentley and Sedgwick all tried and moved on from flock cameras. Now the Harvey County Sheriff’s Department has picked up the mantle and installed four units of what Sheriff Chad Gay calls an “awesome” crime-fighting tool. Flock cameras are stationary units that take pictures of the back license plate of passing vehicles. They store vehicle information, along with location, date and time, in a nationwide database that law enforcement agencies can search to assist investigations.
Read more: Harvey County Now

Sedgwick City Administrator Kyle Nordick proposed using a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) for new housing on South Commercial to the USD-440 Board of Education members Monday evening. Nordick said that an RHID is used to stimulate the construction or rehabilitation of housing in communities where there is a lack of quality housing options. He said it can make it more financially viable for developers to build new houses in areas where cost burdens may present a barrier to entry. In short, what an RHID would do is allow the property taxes from new housing to be used to pay for the special assessments for the new development.
Read more: Harvey County Now

After years of deliberations, work sessions, presentations and indecision, Leawood city councilmembers finally arrived at a consensus on what a future park should look like on the grounds of its original city hall and fire station. Their decision: The fire station will stay, but the old city hall will be demolished, despite some citizen-led efforts to save it. Their vision supports renovation of the fire station with an eye toward creating a future meeting and gathering space. A green space on the site would include play areas and perhaps a demonstration garden.
Read more: Johnson County Post

Overland Park officially opened its 84th city park this week, nodding to the city’s longtime connection to its sister city, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany. On Monday, Overland Park, joined by officials from Bietigheim-Bissingen, dedicated the park, formally opening it for the community. They also sealed a time capsule filled with items representing the connection between the two cities, which is scheduled to be reopened in 25 years. Dozens of people attended the ceremony, and several children took advantage of the brand new playground throughout the festivities.
Read more: Johnson County Post

Shawnee’s governing body is looking into new safety regulations for motorized scooters in the city. On Sept. 22, the Shawnee Council Committee updating the city’s Municipal Code to include regulations for motorized scooters within the city limits, including new helmet requirements and providing more education for younger riders. The discussion comes as other cities in Johnson County, like Prairie Village and Fairway, discussed restrictions on motorized bikes and scooters, as well as shopping centers in Prairie Village and other parts of Johnson County cracking down on them.
Read more: Johnson County Post