A sparkling state revenue report for May reflects the challenges of accurately predicting what will happen in a post-pandemic economy goosed by unprecedented streams of government stimulus. Even after a late-April adjustment to the state’s official revenue forecast, which provides the barometer lawmakers use to form tax deals and set spending levels, Kansas collected $509 million more than expected in May. The extraordinary one-month surplus of cash provides a cushion for the state as a new fiscal year approaches in July. Still, the inability to place the forecast within a half-billion dollars of actual revenue over a four-week period raises questions about what to expect in the coming months.
Source: LJWorld.com.

A growing national debate over the federal government’s goals for land use and conservation has upturned a nascent push to promote a large swath of western and north-central Kansas as a national heritage area. Proponents have viewed the plan as a way of boosting tourism in the region and underscore that it is in its infancy, with ample opportunity remaining for local input and support. It is distinct from being deemed a National Park Service site, as it doesn’t transfer land to a government entity or require administration by federal agencies.
Source: CJonline.com.

PER CURIAM: The Board of County Commissioners of Johnson County (Board) contends that the State Fire Marshal’s adoption and enforcement of the National Fire Protection Association’s Life Safety Code (Code) exceeds its statutory jurisdiction under Kansas law and violates the federal Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA). But we lack jurisdiction to reach the merits of these issues as the district court has not yet entered a final order in the case.
Source: KS Court of Appeals.

A sunny day filled with competitions, food and fun will be available for anyone who wants to partake Saturday at the first Bennington Fun Day and Parade since 2019. The organizers are looking forward to seeing people return to what is normally an annual event and enjoy the day outside without COVID restrictions. They hope that this year’s Fun Day will re-establish the tradition that the community was unable to experience in 2020. Leading up to the final stage of the three-day PRCA Rodeo, there will be activities available to participate in for the entire Saturday with most taking place near downtown.
Source: Salina Journal.

Changes are finally coming to the City of Salina sanitation service and with it comes new trash carts for customers. After being put on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic, trash collecting for the city will begin as an automated service starting July 19. The city said everyone will receive new carts that are designed to fit new side-loader trash trucks. The new trucks use an automated arm controlled by the driver to empty the contents of the cart. Originally slated to begin last year, purchasing these new trucks and carts was put on hold in the city’s attempt to save money during the pandemic. Because the system is automated, any trash left outside the carts will not be picked up.
Source: Salina Journal.

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.