Reno County voters appear open to a modest countywide sales tax increase, but support drops sharply at higher levels, according to the results of a recently completed survey commissioned by the Reno County Commission.

The survey, conducted by the Wichita State University Public Policy and Management Center, was mailed to a random sample of registered voters across Reno County. Just under 400 responses were returned, representing close to 10 percent of those contacted — a response rate county officials say provides statistically valid results.

Reno County Administrator Randy Partington said approximately 70 percent of respondents indicated they would support or might support a half-cent countywide sales tax. However, willingness declined significantly when respondents were asked about higher rates, such as three-quarters of a cent or a full cent.

“That really tells us that anything above a half-cent is unlikely to pass with voters,” Partington said during a recent interview on the BW Morning Show.

The survey also measured public trust in county government. Results showed 79 percent of respondents expressed moderate trust, a finding Partington said was higher than he expected and notable compared to other communities he has worked in. He noted that trust levels can vary depending on the specific service or issue being considered.

Among spending priorities, county roads ranked as one of the top areas of support, with roughly 90 percent of respondents identifying road maintenance as an important investment. However, Partington acknowledged that some respondents may not fully understand the distinction between county and township responsibilities.

Reno County is responsible for maintaining paved county roads that are not part of the state highway system. Dirt and gravel roads, often referred to as township roads, are maintained by individual townships, not the county.

“There’s a lot of confusion about who maintains which roads, and that’s not unique to Reno County,” Partington said.

The survey also revealed misconceptions about how countywide sales tax revenue is distributed. Under Kansas law, sales tax revenue is split using a formula based on population and tax levy. In Reno County, that means the county receives about 40 cents of every dollar collected, while the City of Hutchinson receives approximately 49 cents, with the remaining share divided among smaller cities.

County commissioners also discussed whether a sales tax increase could provide property tax relief. Partington said that comparison is difficult because property values vary widely and sales tax impacts depend on individual spending habits.

“Sales tax spreads the burden more broadly, including to visitors and people passing through the county,” he said. “Property tax only applies to property owners.”

In addition to the mailed survey, the county also hosted an online public survey open to anyone. That survey showed similar trends, though with slightly lower levels of support. Because participation was unrestricted, county officials view those results as supplemental rather than statistically representative.

With the survey now complete, county officials face a tight timeline. To pursue a countywide sales tax referendum, enabling legislation must be introduced during the current Kansas legislative session. The deadline to request a bill introduction is Jan. 26.

The Board of County Commissioners will meet at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20 in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse to consider a resolution to submit their request to the legislature.&nbsp; The meeting is open to the public.&nbsp;

Reno County survey finds support for half-cent sales tax

Dear Dave, My wife and I own three commercial properties. They are all leased out long-term. Currently, we owe about $400,000 each on two of the buildings, and a little over $500,000 on the other. The only other debt we have is our home mortgage, and we should have that paid off in two or three years. I know you hate debt, but how do you feel about owing on commercial properties that are consistently making good money?

—Dean                                                                       

Dear Dean, From what you’ve told me, it doesn’t sound like you two need to shift into panic mode and start selling everything in sight. But I do 100% believe you and your wife should sit down together, and formulate a sensible plan that will enable you to systematically work your way out from under all that debt.

I own several commercial buildings. And guess what? I don’t owe a dime on any of them. Never have. So, based on that—and the other principles I teach teach—I can’t tell you I think it’s okay to have debt on commercial buildings. I believe the best plan for building wealth is to become completely debt-free. 

If I were in your situation, Dean, I’d focus my energy on getting my home paid off first. Then, I’d take a look at the commercial properties and begin working the debt snowball on them. Start with throwing as much money as you can at the smallest debt, while making minimum payments on the other two. When you get the first one paid off, roll that amount over—along with every penny you can scrape together—and attack the second largest one. Continue following these steps until you’ve paid off all your commercial property.  

In your case, it might take several years to get this accomplished. I mean, no matter what these properties bring in, we’re still talking about well over a million dollars in debt. And debt equals risk. If you have a bunch of equity in one you don’t particularly like, you might consider selling it and throwing the cash at the other two. But whatever the timeline, I’d develop a serious game plan to get rid of this debt as fast as possible.

You can hear Dave Ramsey, Monday through Friday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. on KWBW, unless it is preempted by sports coverage.&nbsp;

Dave Says: It’s Still a Mountain of Debt

Hunk-a-chunk of burning love! This all-pro linebacker loves to chill in his wading pool on hot summer days , munching dogoritos and sipping refreshing barkaritas while watching the latest Chiefs endzone dance-a-thon.

When there's a chill in the air, Thor will snuggle in with a blanket and never get tired of watching "Friend's" re-runs with you and will comfort you through your latest bad relationship or job experience.

Regardless of the season, with THOR, you've got a Friend!

To adopt Thor, contact the Kingman County Humane Society. You can reach them by phone at 316-542-1812 or visit them on the <a href="https://www.kingmancountyhumanesociety.org/">web.</a>&nbsp;

The Kingman County Humane Society is located at&nbsp;811 East C Ave. in Kingman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🐶Adopt a Furry Friend: Thor

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Martin	Luther	Tolbert	II	1/16/2026 9:24&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Samantha	Kylee	Page		1/16/2026 10:11&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear,					Failure to Appear

Bryson	Paul	Allen		1/16/2026 12:28&nbsp;PM	Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Possession of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; felony

Rusty	Scott	Weers		1/16/2026 2:04&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Justin	Huu	Nguyen		1/16/2026 2:54&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation,					Forgery; Making, altering, endorsing

Keeon	Patrick	Roberts		1/16/2026 3:33&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Gage	Ryan	Lank		1/16/2026 3:51&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Adam	Casey	Sharp		1/16/2026 6:46&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

Levi	Charles	Trammell		1/16/2026 6:58&nbsp;PM	Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner

Edward	Matthew	Trammell	Jr	1/16/2026 8:59&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

Faith	Elisabeth Kathryn	Jarrett		1/16/2026 10:33&nbsp;PM	Viol protection order; Condition of release

Sarah	Rene	Blanton		1/17/2026 12:21&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Cory	Matthew	Coburn		1/17/2026 12:42&nbsp;AM	Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

Kenneth	Mitchell	Johnson		1/17/2026 12:53&nbsp;AM	DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+,					DWS; 1st conviction

Nathan	Jay	Clanton		1/17/2026 4:38&nbsp;AM	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,&nbsp;Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body, Agg burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex, dv

Daily Bookings

K-State Research and Extension will host a series of regional Local Food Producer Workshops in February and March, offering farmers and small food businesses practical guidance on expanding their reach in local markets.

The annual workshops are held in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture &amp; Alternative Crops. They are designed to help producers learn more about selling through farmers markets, direct-to-consumer channels, and other local food market opportunities, while also providing a forum to connect with peers and share best practices.

According to organizers, the workshops focus on improving business success for local food producers by combining educational sessions with networking opportunities. Each workshop location will offer free scale certification and lunch. Select locations will also include training for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program; participants are encouraged to review the agenda for their chosen location to confirm available topics.

The workshops are organized through K-State Research and Extension, the statewide outreach arm of Kansas State University.

Additional details, including dates, locations, and agendas, are available online through K-State Research and Extension’s workshop page.

K-State Research and Extension to host local food producer workshops across Kansas

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.Info forecast.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Leslie Grant with Wichita State University's Community Education program to discuss their free lifelong learning program.

For more details go to the web site Wichita.edu/lifelonglearning&nbsp; &nbsp;Or call the office 316-978-3731

🎙 Forward Ever: Leslie Grant with WSU's Community Education Program

TOPEKA, Kan. – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this year’s first Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22.

“The new year is all about new doors opening and new opportunities on the horizon,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “And what better way to kickstart your new year than exploring the wide array of fulfilling career opportunities available in Kansas.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2F4fa13887-56f5-4f70-8a8e-15ad40a883d7%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-january-22,-2026/1/0101019b9e563bde-3582bec5-c4b5-4a92-b26a-425ebfb89d80-000000/AcS4yBb1tab0tbPVNUe0q3N2geF3QYIdyaodDh0okxU=439">here</a>.

State to hold first virtual job fair of the year

The Kansas Supreme Court has unanimously affirmed the convictions of a man found guilty of killing two people in Reno County, rejecting arguments that errors during the trial warranted a new proceeding.

A jury previously convicted Kyle Hardwick of two counts of first-degree premeditated murder. On direct appeal, Hardwick argued that the Reno County District Court erred by failing to instruct jurors on imperfect self-defense and by allowing evidence related to his post-arrest silence, which he said violated his Fifth Amendment rights.

In a unanimous opinion authored by Melissa Standridge, the court upheld the convictions, concluding that any error related to jury instructions was harmless in light of the overwhelming evidence presented at trial.

The court determined that even if an imperfect self-defense instruction should have been given, the absence of that instruction did not affect the outcome of the case because the evidence supporting the jury’s verdict was substantial.

The justices also rejected Hardwick’s claim regarding his post-arrest silence. The court ruled that the admission of this evidence did not violate constitutional protections because Hardwick “opened the door” through his own testimony by suggesting a willingness to cooperate with law enforcement that was inconsistent with his actual silence after arrest.

Additionally, the court found that prosecutors used the evidence narrowly and appropriately for impeachment purposes, rather than to suggest guilt, which the court said is constitutionally permissible.

As a result of the ruling, Hardwick’s convictions and sentences remain in place.

Hardwick was sentenced in April of 2023 to two consecutive life sentences for the murders of Marion Edward “Ed” Bates, 56, and Phillip “Phil” D. Anstine, 58, both of Hutchinson. Concurrent with his life convictions, Hardwick was sentenced to eight months for his third alternative count of theft and seven months for solicitation of perjury.  

Kansas Supreme Court affirms Hardwick's 2023 conviction

The national average for a gallon of regular gas went up a couple of cents since last week to $2.84. Drivers are still paying less than they were last year when the national average was $3.08. 

Pump prices are typically low in January thanks to a dip in gas demand and cheaper winter blend gasoline. Crude oil prices remain low as markets keep an eye on tensions in Iran, which is a member of OPEC and one of the world’s top oil producers. Any disruption to Iran’s oil infrastructure could have a ripple effect on gas prices here at home.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eia.gov/" target="_blank">new data from the Energy Information Administration</a>&nbsp;(EIA), gasoline&nbsp;demand&nbsp;increased&nbsp;last week&nbsp;from 8.17&nbsp;million&nbsp;b/d&nbsp;to&nbsp;8.30&nbsp;million.&nbsp;Total domestic gasoline&nbsp;supply&nbsp;increased&nbsp;from&nbsp;242&nbsp;million&nbsp;barrels&nbsp;to&nbsp;251&nbsp;million.&nbsp;Gasoline production increased last week, averaging 9.0 million barrels per day.&nbsp;

At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI&nbsp;rose 87 cents&nbsp;to&nbsp;settle at&nbsp;$62.02&nbsp;a barrel.&nbsp;The EIA&nbsp;reports&nbsp;crude oil inventories&nbsp;increased by 3.4 million barrels from the previous week. At 422.4 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp;

Gas prices nudge higher, but remain lower than last year

Westley	Hardin	Brown		1/15/2026 8:39&nbsp;AM	Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)

Ambresia	Chloe	Leaks		1/15/2026 4:11&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misdemeanor; unknown conv,					DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator

1/15/2026 10:16&nbsp;PM	Aston		Jimmy	Eugene	Possession of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A Kansas man convicted of killing his estranged wife is going to prison.

This week, 34-year-old Miguel Flores was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for at least 25-year-old, according to the Wyandotte County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

The sentence follows his conviction of first degree murder in the shooting death of his wife 23-year-old Loren Flores on November 21, 2022.

Detectives reported the couple were married, but in the process of a divorce when he shot her outside a residence.

Flores then fled the scene, but was taken into custody a short time later by police.&nbsp;

Kansas man going to prison for killing his wife

KANSAS CITY– A member of the Los Valerosos Motorcycle Gang, a support club for the Pagan’s Motorcycle Gang, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, for his involvement in an armed assault against a member of rival motorcycle club, according to the United State's Attorneyh.

Graham S. Gattis, also known as “Dro,” 41, of East Ridge, Tn., pleaded guilty this week to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

On Sept. 17, 2022, Gattis and other members of the Pagan’s and Los Valerosos chased and forced a lone rival gang member from the road in Blue Springs, Mo.&nbsp; Various members of the Pagan’s and Los Valerosos were armed with firearms and at least one axe handle.&nbsp; Gattis and the others confronted the victim on the side of the roadway and ultimately, the victim was shot seven times, with wounds to his knee, thigh, forearm, biceps, buttocks and back of his leg.

Under federal statutes, Gattis is subject to a sentence of not less than five years and up to life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the FBI,&nbsp;<a></a>the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Blue Springs, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.&nbsp;

Biker gang member admits KC area armed assault against rival

LYON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 11a.m. Friday in Lyon County.

The Lyon County Sheriff's office reported a John Deere tractor driven by 78-year-old Kenneth DeDonder of Reading was eastbound in the 1700 Block of of Road 270 in rural Lyon County. The tractor struck a guardrail and overturned.

First responders&nbsp;located DeDonder still in the cab of the tractor. Emporia EMS was able to extricate him from the cab of the tractor. EMS and LifeSave personnel provided care for him. However, he was pronounced deceased on scene.&nbsp; The accident remains under investigation.

Sheriff IDs Kansas man who died in farm tractor accident

NUUK, Greenland (AP) — President Donald Trump said Saturday that he would charge a 10% import tax starting in February on goods from eight European nations because of their opposition to American control of Greenland.

Trump said in a social media post that Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland would face the tariff and that it would climb to 25% on June 1 if a deal is not in place for “the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland” by the United States.

The threat of tariffs was a drastic and potentially dangerous escalation of a showdown between Trump and NATO allies, further straining an alliance that dates to 1949 and provides a collective degree of security to Europe and North America. The Republican president has repeatedly tried to use trade penalties to bend allies and rivals alike to his will, generating investment commitments from some nations and pushback from others such as China, Brazil and India.

It was unclear how Trump could impose the tariffs under U.S. law, though he could cite economic emergency powers that are currently subject to a U.S. Supreme Court challenge.

Trump said in his Truth Social post that his tariffs were retaliation for recent trips to Greenland by representatives from Britain, the Netherlands and Finland and for general opposition to his efforts to purchase the semiautonomous territory of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-greenland-trump-denmark-threat-annex-4907c132b499531d8d5fe6cd549c0beb">NATO ally</a>&nbsp;Denmark. He has Greenland is essential for the “Golden Dome” missile defense system for the U.S., and has argued that Russia and China might try to take over the island.

Resistance has steadily built in Europe to Trump's ambitions, even as several countries on the continent agreed to his 15% tariffs last year in order to preserve an economic and security relationship with Washington.

Earlier Saturday, hundreds of people in Greenland's capital braved near-freezing temperatures, rain and icy streets to march in a rally in support of their own self-governance.

The Greenlanders waved their red-and-white national flags and listened to traditional songs as they walked through Nuuk's small downtown. Some carried signs with messages like “We shape our future,” “Greenland is not for sale” and “Greenland is already GREAT.” They were joined by thousands of others in rallies across the Danish kingdom.

The rallies occurred hours after a bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation in Copenhagen sought to reassure Denmark and Greenland of their support.

U.S. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/no-such-thing-as-a-better-colonizer-inuit-council-leader-rejects-us-imperialism-over-greenland-12d022b1b63748c2a0587fc132846829">current rhetoric around Greenland</a>&nbsp;was causing concern across the Danish kingdom and that he wanted to de-escalate the situation.

“I hope that the people of the Kingdom of Denmark do not abandon their faith in the American people,” he said in Copenhagen, adding that the U.S. has respect for Denmark and NATO “for all we’ve done together.”

Danish Maj. Gen. Søren Andersen, leader of the Joint Arctic Command, told The Associated Press that Denmark doesn't expect the U.S. military to attack Greenland, or any other NATO ally, and that European troops were recently deployed to Nuuk for Arctic defense training.

He said that the goal isn’t to send a message to the Trump administration, even through the White House hasn’t ruled out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/greenland-us-options-takeover-trump-denmark-86790903847fc8ffc27334ccb64985a9">taking the territory by force</a>.

“I will not go into the political part, but I will say that I would never expect a NATO country to attack another NATO country,” he told the AP on Saturday aboard a Danish military vessel docked in Nuuk. “For us, for me, it’s not about signaling. It is actually about training military units, working together with allies.”

The Danish military organized a planning meeting Friday in Greenland with NATO allies, including the U.S., to discuss Arctic security on the alliance’s northern flank in the face of a potential Russian threat. The Americans were also invited to participate in Operation Arctic Endurance in Greenland in the coming days, Andersen said.

In his 2½ years as a commander in Greenland, Andersen said that he hasn't seen any Chinese or Russian combat vessels or warships, despite Trump saying that they were off the island's coast.

But in the unlikely event of American troops using force on Danish soil, Andersen confirmed a Cold War-era law governing Danish rules of engagement.

“But you are right that it is Danish law that a Danish soldier, if attacked, has the obligation to fight back,” he said.

Thousands of people marched through Copenhagen, many of them carrying Greenland’s flag. Others held signs with slogans like “Make America Smart Again” and “Hands Off.”

“This is important for the whole world,” Danish protester Elise Riechie told the AP as she held Danish and Greenlandic flags. “There are many small countries. None of them are for sale.”

Trump has sought to justify his calls for a U.S. takeover by repeatedly saying that China and Russia have their own designs on Greenland, which holds vast untapped reserves of critical minerals.

“There are no current security threats to Greenland,” Coons said.

Trump has insisted for months that the U.S. should control Greenland, and said earlier this week that anything less than the Arctic island being in U.S. hands would be “unacceptable.”

During an unrelated event at the White House about rural health care, he recounted Friday how he had threatened European allies with tariffs on pharmaceuticals.

“I may do that for Greenland, too,” Trump said.

He had not previously mentioned using tariffs to try to force the issue.

Earlier this week, the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland met in Washington with Trump's vice president, JD Vance, and secretary of state, Marco Rubio.

That encounter didn’t resolve&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/greenland-united-states-denmark-trump-vance-rubio-meeting-cc278af4f3daf725029101966ba03568">the deep differences</a>, but did produce an agreement to set up a working group — on whose purpose Denmark and the White House then offered&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/greenland-united-states-denmark-trump-vance-rubio-meeting-b10f5151008f1f18a788dc0751473c0e">sharply diverging public views</a>.

European leaders have said that it's only for Denmark and Greenland to decide on matters concerning the territory, and Denmark said this week that it was increasing its military presence in Greenland in cooperation with allies.

“There is almost no better ally to the United States than Denmark,” Coons said. “If we do things that cause Danes to question whether we can be counted on as a NATO ally, why would any other country seek to be our ally or believe in our representations?”

Niemann reported from Copenhagen, Denmark, and Boak from West Palm Beach, Fla. Associated Press writer Stefanie Dazio in Berlin contributed to this report.

Trump slaps tariffs against European countries in bid for Greenland

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —One person died in accident just after 3:30a.m. Saturday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by&nbsp;Hinman, Dakota Ray&nbsp;Hinman, 34, Parsons, was westbound on&nbsp;County Road 2800. The driver failed to yield to oncoming traffic at U.S. 169. A northbound 2025 Freightliner semi driven by Said&nbsp;Bouchelarm, 43, Lenexa, struck the pickup on the driver's side.

Hinman was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;Bouchelarm was not transported for treatment.&nbsp; Hinman was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after semi, pickup crash

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/alex-veiga">ALEX VEIGA</a> Associated Press

The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate is now down to its lowest level in more than three years.

The benchmark 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate eased to 6.06% this week, down from 6.16% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. One year ago, the rate averaged 7.04%.

The last time the average rate was lower was Sept. 15, 2022, when it was at 6.02%.

Meanwhile, borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with homeowners refinancing their home loans, also fell this week, dropping to 5.38% from 5.46% last week. A year ago, that average rate was at 6.27%, Freddie Mac said.

Lower mortgage rates boost homebuyers’ purchasing power, good news for home shoppers at a time when the housing market remains in a deep slump after years of soaring prices and elevated mortgage rates have shut out many aspiring homeowners.

Uncertainty over the economy and job market are also keeping many would-be buyers on the sidelines.

Mortgage rates began easing in July in anticipation of a series of Fed rate cuts, which began in September and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-cut-inflation-jobs-e689e1397856aa24ffebdaaefa9762a2">continued last month</a>.

The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, but when it cuts its short-term rate that can signal lower inflation or slower economic growth ahead, which can drive investors to buy U.S. government bonds. That can help lower yields on long-term U.S. Treasurys, which can result in lower mortgage rates.

The pullback in mortgage rates helped drive sales of previously occupied U.S. homes higher on a monthly basis the last four months of 2025. Even so,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-d14d4f80bb90d6031292d1f0c377d708">home sales remained stuck at a 30-year low last year,</a>&nbsp;extending the housing market’s slump into its fourth year.

Lower mortgage rates have been helpful for home shoppers who can afford to buy at current rates. The median U.S. monthly housing payment fell to $2,413 in the four weeks ending Jan. 11, according to Redfin. That’s a 5.5% drop from the same period a year earlier and near the lowest level in two years.

The latest drop in rates comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-housing-mortgage-rates-79294cf8eac1579b17430b4cd0708fcd">President Donald Trump announced last week</a>&nbsp;that the federal government would buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds in a bid to reduce mortgage rates.

Lower rates spurred a sharp increase in homeowners seeking to refinance their existing home loan to a lower rate last fall, a trend that has continued into this year.

Applications for mortgage refinancing loans soared 40% last week from the previous week and accounted for 60% of all home loan applications, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Applications for loans to buy a home climbed 16%.

“With mortgage rates much lower than a year ago and edging closer to 6%, MBA expects strong interest from homeowners seeking a refinance and would-be buyers stepping off the sidelines,” said MBA CEO Bob Broeksmit.

Economists generally expect mortgage rates to ease further this year, though most recent forecasts show the average rate on a 30-year mortgage remaining above 6%, about twice what it was six years ago.

Still, rates would have to drop considerably for homeowners, who bought or refinanced when mortgage rates hit rock bottom earlier this decade, to take on a new loan at a far higher rate.

Nearly 69% of U.S. homes with an outstanding mortgage have a fixed-rate of 5% or lower, and slightly more than half have a rate at or below 4%, according to Realtor.com.

Average US long-term mortgage rate hits lowest point in more than 3 years

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The city of Wichita took the unprecedented action Friday to address social media statements involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Wichita Police.

On the city's social media page, they wrote, they are aware of circulating posts that claim Mayor Lily Wu directed the Wichita Police to work alongside ICE. 

<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/DocumentCenter/View/31832/Policy-514--Arrest-And-Detention-of-Foreign-Nationals-PDF?fbclid=IwY2xjawPYjvRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFKWURCWGVvamNQNzUyRGFkc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHjOuuW0ENB3dOVjGJWJJOdrhrZHh6XzsQupwxLVexmvcCpPbt_bk7Leu343i_aem_wiV7GHQkO5g_hcN9M1wLAw">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;Wichita Police policy on the arrest and detention of foreign nationals.

1. The Mayor of Wichita does not have the administrative power to direct any City department. 

City dispels misinformation concerning Wichita police, ICE

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Police investigating a deadly shooting in Lawrence have two suspects in custody.

Just after 2a.m. Saturday, police were called to a reported shooting at the Hawk, 1340 Ohio Street in Lawrence, according to an online report from Lawrence Police.

First responders found two victims with gunshot wounds and several potential witnesses who told officers the suspects took off. While officers on scene tended to the victims, others flooded the surrounding area.  Soon after, officers found a group of people matching the suspects’ descriptions walking just blocks away. 

They were taken to the Lawrence Police Department to be questioned by detectives. Through the course of the investigation, probable cause was developed to suggest requesting charges on one suspect for first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated assault and requesting charges on a second suspect of felony murder and aggravated assault. 

Both were booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility.

An 18-year-old boy was pronounced deceased at the scene. The second victim, a 16-year-old boy, was taken to an area trauma center where he remains in critical condition.&nbsp;

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Police are investigating a deadly shooting in Lawrence. 

The shooting occurred at approximately 2a.m. Saturday at the Hawk, 1340 Ohio Street, according to a statement from Lawrence police.

 One person is confirmed deceased and another is in critical condition at an area trauma center. Police secured the scene and detectives were questioning those involved.

Arrest made in fatal shooting at popular bar near KU campus

USD 465 is celebrating an extraordinary act of generosity that is making a meaningful difference for students and families across the district. During the January 12 Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Tricia Reiser shared the exciting news that the district received an unexpected donation totaling $15,432.00, which fully eliminated outstanding debt for unpaid student lunches.

“This generous gift directly supports our families and ensures that students can focus on learning without the burden of meal debt,” said Reiser. “We are incredibly grateful.”

According to Elizabeth Smith, USD 465 Business Manager and Board of Education Treasurer, families will now see negative balances removed from their school meal accounts. Every student in our district will start off the spring semester with a clean slate for their lunch accounts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This donation is truly a blessing,” Smith said. “We thank and bless the person who chose to help our students and families in such a meaningful way.” Smith states, “Every student in the district regardless of whether or not they have a negative balance has the opportunity to be provided a meal; possibly an alternative meal depending on the grade level.&nbsp; We want to ensure every student is fed.”

This year, 1,136 USD 465 students qualify for free or reduced meals, based on family income. This represents more than half of the district’s total enrollment. The donation specifically impacts approximately 450 students who were carrying meal debt. In some cases, the debt may have accrued prior to a student qualifying for free or reduced meals.

Parents are encouraged to apply for free/reduced price meals.&nbsp; KSDE's guidelines to qualify for a family of 5 for free meals are families that earn less than $48,945 and to qualify for reduced less than $69,653.&nbsp; Each additional person in the household adds $7,150 to the earnings to qualify for free and $10,175 to qualify for reduced. USD 465 encourages families to remember that if their financial situation changes at any point during the school year, they may apply or reapply for free or reduced price meal benefits at that time. Applications and assistance are available through the District Office.

USD 465 extends its heartfelt gratitude to the anonymous donor for their compassion and commitment to supporting students and families in the Winfield community.

Anonymous donor pays off Kan. district's school-lunch debt 

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that occurred Thursday night in east Wichita during a reported home invasion robbery.

At 7:30 p.m., officers assigned to Patrol East heard several gunshots and then received a Gunshot Detection System (GSD) alert in the 5300 block of E. Funston, according to a media release from Wichita Police. Officers arrived before 911 calls came in.

When officers arrived, they found a 22-year-old man with multiple gunshot wounds. Officers began life-saving measures until Sedgwick County EMS arrived. EMS transported the man to a local hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

“ Our officers heard the gunshots, and our Gunshot Detection System immediately pinpointed the area before the first 911 calls came in. That combination helped us get to the exact location fast, start medical aid right away, and get EMS there quickly. It potentially saved the suspect’s life. And it also allowed us to secure the scene, take the suspect into custody, and move this case forward. Technology like this continues to strengthen our ability to respond quickly and protect our community.”&nbsp;

Three people, later determined to be victims, were detained for interviews. After speaking with investigators, all three were released.

Detectives learned a 21-year-old Wichita woman was inside her home in the 5300 block of E. Funston when three armed suspects kicked in the door and robbed her.

During the incident, her boyfriend, a 23-year-old Wichita man, arrived with a 22-year-old friend.

As the boyfriend approached the home, one suspect exited through the front door, pointed a gun at him, and ordered him to get on the ground. A struggle over the firearm followed. As the 22-year-old friend got out of the vehicle, an exchange of gunfire occurred, and the 22-year-old suspect was shot. The other two suspects fled the scene and remain at large.

The suspect who was shot remains in police custody at the hospital. Once released, he will be booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated assault. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration.

Kan. home invasion robbery suspect wounded in gunfight

TEMPE, Ariz. – The Kansas Jayhawks were held to a season-low 51 points on Saturday as KU suffered a 67-51 defeat to Arizona State at Desert Financial Arena.

The loss is the fourth straight for KU as the Jayhawks fall to 11-8 (1-6 Big 12) on the season. Arizona State improves to 16-3 (4-2 Big 12). Kansas concludes its road trip with a trip to Tucson, Arizona, on Tuesday, Jan. 20, to meet Arizona. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. CT and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Jaliya Davis and Regan Williams had 11 points apiece to lead the Jayhawks, while S'Mya Nichols had eight points in 21 minutes before exiting the game with an injury in the third quarter. The Jayhawks shot 38.0 percent (19-50) from the field and 20.0 percent (4-20) from three-point range, while knocking down all nine free throw attempts in the game.

"We have to play with more discipline," Kansas head coach Brandon Schneider said following the game. "I think there's a frustration when things aren't going your way, and there's a way to respond in a competitive way. We just fouled too much today and I thought a lot of it was a frustration with how the game was going but also with where we are."

The first quarter featured alternating runs from the two teams as they combined for two ties and four lead changes. Arizona State scored the first four points of the game at the free throw line before Davis and Libby Fandel combined to score the next seven as KU took its first lead of the day. ASU answered with a 9-2 run, building a 13-9 lead before Williams scored a basket and Davis hit two free throws to tie the game at 13-13 at the end of one quarter. 

Nichols broke the tie with a three-point play to open the second quarter and Kansas led 18-15 at the 8:37 mark after Sania Copeland scored a driving basket. The Jayhawks were held to one basket - a Lilly Meister three-pointer - over the next six minutes as ASU went on a 19-3 run to build a 34-21 lead at the 2:14 mark. Nichols ended that streak with a three-pointer and Brittany Harshaw knocked down a triple of her own on KU's final possession of the half, but ASU beat the buzzer with a jump shot to carry a 40-29 lead into the break. 

Davis knocked down KU's first two buckets of the second half, briefly cutting the deficit into single digits before ASU went on an 8-3 run to take their largest lead at 50-36. Williams scored the next six points for the Jayhawks and Elle Evans added a basket, but Kansas faced a 55-43 deficit at the end of three. 

Evans, Williams and Meister scored baskets in a 6-0 run as Kansas cut its deficit back to 10 at 61-51 with 4:10 to play in the fourth, but the Jayhawks were held scoreless the rest of the way while ASU scored the final six points to secure the 67-51 victory.

The Jayhawks play next at Arizona on Tuesday.&nbsp; Game time is 6 p.m.

🏀KU drops first game of road swing at Arizona State

LUBBOCK, Texas – K-State rallied from a six-point fourth quarter deficit to upset (17/18) Texas Tech, 65-59, on Saturday at United Supermarkets Arena. The win ended Texas Tech's winning streak at 19.

This was K-State's first road win over a ranked opponent this season and the first since downing 13th-ranked Kentucky on March 23, 2025, in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

K-State (10-9, 2-3 Big 12) featured four players in double figures – Tess Heal (12 points), Gina Garcia (11), Taryn Sides (11) and Jordan Speiser (11).

- The Wildcats overcame a four-point deficit, 20-16, early in the second quarter to hold a 30-25 advantage at halftime. K-State strung together a 14-3 run for over seven minutes and held Texas Tech (19-1, 6-1) without a made field goal for the final 5:23 of the second stanza.

- K-State saw eight of the 10 players that saw action in the opening half score at least two points.

- The Wildcats held a 35-29 lead with 6:13 to play in the third quarter following a layup from Nastja Claessens. The Lady Raiders would rally with a 9-3 run over the final 3:23 of the frame to capture a 44-42 lead at the end of the third quarter. All nine points for Texas Tech were scored by Jada Malone.

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