Fighting water woes in Kansas

15 Wednesday, November 15

Fighting water woes in Kansas

info2023-11-16T08:14:30-06:00November 15th, 2023|

The State of Kansas Governor's water conference is this week. It's an effort to save water in the wake of a drought in parts of Kansas, along with aquifers that are drying up. "I always say the sky is not falling. But today is our opportunity to keep it from falling," said Susan Metzger with Kansas State University. Metzger is announcing a water institute at Kansas State at the university level this week as well that coincided with the state water conference. "The future is critical, and if we don't protect our water resources here in Kansas, well then our communities, [...]

15 Wednesday, November 15

Pottawatomie County ponders next steps after sales tax proposal fails for second time

info2023-11-16T08:15:38-06:00November 15th, 2023|

For two consecutive years, Pottawatomie County voters have turned down a proposal to raise sales tax by a quarter percent to fund certain county road projects. Commissioners on Monday pointed to a lack of ability to educate the public as to the benefits of these projects. County Counselor John Watt says commissioners can’t actively push ballot issues because of state statute, something Dee McKee says she doesn’t agree with. Commissioner Greg Riat believed the issue could’ve been helped if an outside group threw its support around it. County Administrator Chad Kinsley says a big discussion will be needed ahead of next year’s budget. Source: [...]

15 Wednesday, November 15

City of Newton working to boost tree sales

info2023-11-16T08:16:58-06:00November 15th, 2023|

The City of Newton is giving out coupons to residents for 50 percent off trees through the end of the month or until supplies last. Currently, the city has given out about a third of the available coupons. Coupons can be picked up at the third floor of City Hall, located at 201 E Sixth Street, and will have a list of participating greenhouses. Erin McDaniels, the city’s communication’s director, said the city does this each spring and autumn as part of its tree city program. “Having trees and green space and parks, these are things that improve the quality of life for [...]

15 Wednesday, November 15

Haysville offers incentives to open certain restaurants in the city

info2023-11-16T08:17:34-06:00November 15th, 2023|

The City’s Economic Development Director Danielle Gabor said the city is looking at ways to keep up with its growing population. One way is with its restaurant incentive program that is designed to help new restaurants get up and going. “Originally was $5,000 and it was just for a steakhouse and a coffee shop and we increased that number recently to $15,000. It also includes a fast food or quick service dining restaurant," explained Gabor. Gabor says adding more restaurants in the city gives more options for both Haysville residents and people in nearby cities like Wichita to visit and spend [...]

15 Wednesday, November 15

Municipal Bond Trends for November 14, 2023

Henry Schmidt2023-11-15T09:28:04-06:00November 15th, 2023|

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.

14 Tuesday, November 14

City of El Dorado receives Safe Streets and Roads for All grant

info2023-11-15T09:55:19-06:00November 14th, 2023|

Transportation safety is always a priority for the City of El Dorado, whether it’s driving, walking or biking. A Safe Streets and Roads for All grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation will help the City continue to improve safety throughout the community. The City received notice from Congressman Ron Estes’ office of the $160,000 grant. This will be used for a road safety audit to develop a new City of El Dorado Transportation Safety Action Plan, which will be part of the previously authorized Transportation Master Plan now underway. “This will help us identify places that have safety issues in [...]

14 Tuesday, November 14

Municipal Bond Trends for November 13, 2023

Henry Schmidt2023-11-14T08:28:44-06:00November 14th, 2023|

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.

13 Monday, November 13

Russell recognizes Purple Heart recipients at ceremony tomorrow

info2023-11-13T12:56:24-06:00November 13th, 2023|

The Purple Heart medal is presented to U.S. military service members wounded or killed by enemy fire. It was originally awarded by George Washington in 1782 to recognize meritorious service in combat. It is the nation's oldest and one of the most distinguished military awards. The Russell community is home to many veterans and families, including Purple Heart recipients and Gold Star families. The City of Russell has a long history of supporting military personnel and veterans. The Purple Heart Proclamation is an official expression of Russell’s appreciation for the sacrifices and Purple Heart recipients that were made defending our freedoms. [...]

13 Monday, November 13

Shawnee voters overwhelmingly renew two key sales taxes

info2023-11-13T12:45:17-06:00November 13th, 2023|

With two landslide approvals by Shawnee voters, the renewal of two existing sales taxes means promising futures for city projects. In last Tuesday’s election, Shawnee voters overwhelmingly voted to renew the “Parks & Pipes and Pavement” sales taxes, which together fund improvement projects throughout the city. Their renewal means the city will be able to move ahead with no gaps in funding. According to unofficial final Election Night results, the “Parks and Pipes” tax issue passed with nearly 75% of voters approving the measure, which renews the 1/8-cent citywide sales tax that is specifically designated for building and improving city parks, [...]

13 Monday, November 13

Clay Center continues discussion on lifting pit bull ban

info2023-11-13T12:37:51-06:00November 13th, 2023|

Four members of the Clay Center City Council’s Administrative Committee agreed last week they should recommend to the full council to do away with the city’s ban on pit bulls and strengthen the city’s vicious dog ordinance with stricter penalties for dogs running at large. However, they also agreed the council should have more discussion on this before they do it. The council reviewed statistics on dog attacks and looked at other cities that have lifted bans, which included Abilene, Salina, Concordia and Junction City. These cities also handle issues with dogs with a vicious dog ordinance rather than an outright [...]