HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Board of Trustees will meet to go over several items on Thursday.

The board will take action on whether to exceed the revenue neutral rate for the next budget year. Under the proposal the mill levy for the school would be 22 mills which is a .14 mill increase.&nbsp;

If all goes as planned, the board will get their first full look at the budget in August and then hold their revenue neutral hearing and the public hearing on the budget during their meeting in September.

Also Thursday, the board will approve the sale of surplus property from the motorcycle riding class and go into executive session to discuss the ongoing negotiations with the teachers union. The next negotiation session between the two parties in July 22.

Thursday's meeting of the HutchCC Board of Trustees is at 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center on the HutchCC campus.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Board of Trustees will meet to go over several items on Thursday.The board will take action on whether to exceed the revenue neutral rate for the next budget year. Under the proposal the mill levy for the school would be 22 mills which is a .14 mill increase.&nbsp;If all goes as planned, the board will get their first full look at the budget in August and then hold their revenue neutral hearing and the public hearing on the budget during their meeting in September.Also Thursday, the board will approve the sale of surplus property from the motorcycle riding class and go into executive session to discuss the ongoing negotiations with the teachers union. The next negotiation session between the two parties in July 22.Thursday's meeting of the HutchCC Board of Trustees is at 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center on the HutchCC campus.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutch CC BOT to take action on revenue neutral rate

A Flood Watch is in effect from 7 a.m. Thursday through late tonight.

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Flood Watch for Portions of Central, South Central, and Southeast Kansas, including the following areas, in Central Kansas, Chase, Marion, McPherson and Saline. 

In South Central Kansas, Butler, Cowley, Harper, Harvey, Kingman, Reno, Sedgwick and Sumner. In Southeast Kansas, Allen, Chautauqua, Elk, Greenwood, Labette, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson.

An approaching disturbance will create widespread thunderstorms, many with very heavy rain, this afternoon.  Rainfall rates up to 4 inches per hour are possible.  Localized flooding is a strong possibility in the warned areas.

You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

Locally heavy rainfall from showers and storms are possible this afternoon through tonight. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches with locally higher amounts possible.

Flooding of lowland areas and of area creeks and rivers are possible. Rainfall rates this high will easily overwhelm city street drainage, and hazardous driving conditions are expected. 

Remember, if the street is covered by water, you don’t know if the surface underneath is still there. Turn Around, Don’t Drown. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626344773844.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Flood Watch is in effect from 7 a.m. Thursday through late tonight.The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Flood Watch for Portions of Central, South Central, and Southeast Kansas, including the following areas, in Central Kansas, Chase, Marion, McPherson and Saline. In South Central Kansas, Butler, Cowley, Harper, Harvey, Kingman, Reno, Sedgwick and Sumner. In Southeast Kansas, Allen, Chautauqua, Elk, Greenwood, Labette, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson.An approaching disturbance will create widespread thunderstorms, many with very heavy rain, this afternoon. Rainfall rates up to 4 inches per hour are possible. Localized flooding is a strong possibility in the warned areas.You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.Locally heavy rainfall from showers and storms are possible this afternoon through tonight. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches with locally higher amounts possible.Flooding of lowland areas and of area creeks and rivers are possible. Rainfall rates this high will easily overwhelm city street drainage, and hazardous driving conditions are expected. Remember, if the street is covered by water, you don’t know if the surface underneath is still there. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

National Weather Service says flooding is possible Thursday

Editor's Note: This is a copy of a letter received by Hutch Post Wednesday afternoon from FOP Lodge 18 on the firearms issue. Hutch Post has made every effort to accurately copy the letter while editing it in a minor fashion for readability.

This letter is being written on behalf of the Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 members regarding the current issues we see with actions of the Hutchinson Police Department Administration. This letter is to let the public know the whole story about what is going on.

The only information that has been put out is from Chief Hooper. Out of respect for our Sheriff and County Officials we have remained quiet on these subjects. That is no longer what we feel is best for our members.

The first lease between the City of Hutchinson and Reno County regarding the Yeager Firearms Range came about in February of 1985 according to minutes from the Reno County Board of Commissioners. Since that time, the Range has been in the control of the Reno County Sheriff’s Office. 

The County has paid the insurance and utilities on the property since that time per the lease agreement. During this time, the County has been responsible for the regular upkeep and maintenance of the Range.

Over the last 36 years the Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 has had a large impact on the Range. Lodge members assisted in pouring concrete, constructing buildings, and making general Range improvements. Many of the improvements were paid for with Lodge funds and constructed with volunteer labor from Lodge members. The Range is a legacy of Lodge #18.

The Reno County Sheriff’s Office has more than 80 sworn Deputies, all sworn Deputies, including those in the correctional facility are issued firearms. As part of the process for Deputies to be issued firearms, we conduct a 36 hour basic firearms class for new staff. Within the correctional facility there is a specialized group who conduct firearms training each month to train for situations which arise in the jail setting. 

We also hold basic rifle courses each year prior to Deputies being issued rifles. Other trainings which we hold at the range are SWAT basic courses, biannual department trainings and qualification for Kansas CPOST, night shoots, bi-monthly open range dates with a certified instructor for Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 one on one training, retired qualifications per 18 U.S. Code § 926C, less than lethal and chemical deployment trainings to name a few.

Under the latest proposed contract, control of the Range would be turned “back over to the City”. The Range was never a city range or training facility. This was a discarded piece of city property with no future or intended use. It was considered a useless property prior to 1985. 

Members of the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, Reno County Sheriff’s Reserves, and Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 turned the once useless piece of property into a firearms training facility. 

The City has not provided any substantial and consistent financial assistance in the Range until last year. This assistance was in paying for concrete work being done on the shooting surface. The obligation to the City for these improvements was $17,000. The Range is utilized by many agencies in and around Reno County and is a direct result of the hard work of those mentioned above. By the City taking back this property, it would lead to FOP Lodge #18 losing the legacy it has created and maintained since 1985.

It is our understanding the City is interested in building a “state-of-the-art firearms training facility”. This would be a great thing for the Law Enforcement Officers of Reno County as a whole.

However, the building of such a facility would lead to the demolition of many of the current facilities. This would also cause Law Enforcement Officers to lose the ability to utilize the range during that time. A state-of-the-art facility would not be able to be constructed overnight. This would cause officers to have to miss out on valuable and required training. A parcel search shows the City currently owns at least four properties large enough and in acceptable areas to accommodate such a project. This would allow the legacy Range to stay in possession of the County. It would also allow officers the ability to train and qualify while the new facility is being built. Also, with the current Budget issues with the city funding it seems like building a new facility would be a waste of city money.

The Yeager Firearms Range is not a state-of-the-art facility; however, with the financial and sweat equity put in over the past 36 years by members, we do feel it is “our” range. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office and FOP Lodge #18 are committed to continuing the legacy of the Yeager Range going forward.

The current administration from the Hutchinson Police Department is only interested in expanding their current reach over everything. They want control of our range so decisions can be made by them and them only. We have never excluded or controlled use of the range from any agency that requested the use. We have been working with Sheriff’s Office Administration and County admin to come to an agreement to upgrade the current range facilities. 

The Hutchinson Police Department was asked if they wanted to be a part of this and they declined due to funding. The county was prepared to fund these upgrades completely. Then the Hutchinson Police Department decided they wanted the land and complete control over it. A contract was drawn up by County Officials for a joint agreement for the range property. The City has refused to sign that contract. The fact that the Sheriff’s Office was willing to give up anything on this matter shows our willingness to work together. The City’s unwillingness to agree to the terms shows their true motives as to just take over anything and everything they can.

There was an article that went out discussing the current status of our SRT and ERT teams. There has been a joint team between the Hutchinson Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office. The lack of trust for the Hutchinson Police Department administration caused that agreement to dissolve.

Our agency still agreed to train and assist the Hutchinson Police Department on any call outs as per the region guidelines. The Hutchinson Police Department had an ERT activation in the city and violated those guidelines by calling a response team out of Harvey County to assist them even though we had active members on scene. This again shows the bitterness and unwillingness to work together.

The Hutchinson Police Department's ERT team put the lives of the citizens at risk by not calling our team because they were mad that the teams split. This is just another example of how the greater good is not important to them.

There has been talk of why the Sheriff’s Office and the Hutchinson Police Department cannot get along and work together on things. This is an issue with the Hutchinson Police Department Admin. 

There is no way to work with someone who thinks the only way to do things is their way. A perfect example of this happened within the last two weeks. The Sheriff’s Office decided to cut our losses with the range and we removed all county owned items from the property. This would allow the Hutchinson Police Department the opportunity to start fresh with their state of the art training facility they claim to be building. 

The Chief has stated numerous times that this facility is going to be open to every Law Enforcement Agency in the county. After removing our equipment a letter was sent telling the city, the county would no longer cover insurance and utilities on the property (which we had done for over 30 years) after July 30th.&nbsp;On July 9th (21 days before the letter stated the county would no longer cover the property) The Hutchinson Police Department at the order of Chief Hooper removed the county owned lock from the gate. This lock had a four digit combination that was known by all agencies. 

The Hutchinson Police Department then placed their own lock on the gate which does not give every agency in the county access as stated by Chief Hooper. Sheriff’s Office Admin asked for the code to the new lock and were told no. An email was also sent out to numerous Law Enforcement Agencies in the county by the Hutchinson Police Department asking if they wanted to be on a committee for their new range. The Sheriff’s Office was not included in this email. It appears Chief Hooper wants total control and is not willing to have any discussion over the issue.

We would also like to reassure all the citizens of Reno County that the issues between the agencies that is currently going on will in no way change our duty to serve this great county. 

The Sheriff’s Office has always and will always put the safety and security of the citizens first.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626301510265.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's Note: This is a copy of a letter received by Hutch Post Wednesday afternoon from FOP Lodge 18 on the firearms issue. Hutch Post has made every effort to accurately copy the letter while editing it in a minor fashion for readability.This letter is being written on behalf of the Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 members regarding the current issues we see with actions of the Hutchinson Police Department Administration. This letter is to let the public know the whole story about what is going on.The only information that has been put out is from Chief Hooper. Out of respect for our Sheriff and County Officials we have remained quiet on these subjects. That is no longer what we feel is best for our members.The first lease between the City of Hutchinson and Reno County regarding the Yeager Firearms Range came about in February of 1985 according to minutes from the Reno County Board of Commissioners. Since that time, the Range has been in the control of the Reno County Sheriff’s Office. The County has paid the insurance and utilities on the property since that time per the lease agreement. During this time, the County has been responsible for the regular upkeep and maintenance of the Range.Over the last 36 years the Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 has had a large impact on the Range. Lodge members assisted in pouring concrete, constructing buildings, and making general Range improvements. Many of the improvements were paid for with Lodge funds and constructed with volunteer labor from Lodge members. The Range is a legacy of Lodge #18.The Reno County Sheriff’s Office has more than 80 sworn Deputies, all sworn Deputies, including those in the correctional facility are issued firearms. As part of the process for Deputies to be issued firearms, we conduct a 36 hour basic firearms class for new staff. Within the correctional facility there is a specialized group who conduct firearms training each month to train for situations which arise in the jail setting. We also hold basic rifle courses each year prior to Deputies being issued rifles. Other trainings which we hold at the range are SWAT basic courses, biannual department trainings and qualification for Kansas CPOST, night shoots, bi-monthly open range dates with a certified instructor for Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 one on one training, retired qualifications per 18 U.S. Code § 926C, less than lethal and chemical deployment trainings to name a few.Under the latest proposed contract, control of the Range would be turned “back over to the City”. The Range was never a city range or training facility. This was a discarded piece of city property with no future or intended use. It was considered a useless property prior to 1985. Members of the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, Reno County Sheriff’s Reserves, and Reno County Deputy Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #18 turned the once useless piece of property into a firearms training facility. The City has not provided any substantial and consistent financial assistance in the Range until last year. This assistance was in paying for concrete work being done on the shooting surface. The obligation to the City for these improvements was $17,000. The Range is utilized by many agencies in and around Reno County and is a direct result of the hard work of those mentioned above. By the City taking back this property, it would lead to FOP Lodge #18 losing the legacy it has created and maintained since 1985.It is our understanding the City is interested in building a “state-of-the-art firearms training facility”. This would be a great thing for the Law Enforcement Officers of Reno County as a whole.However, the building of such a facility would lead to the demolition of many of the current facilities. This would also cause Law Enforcement Officers to lose the ability to utilize the range during that time. A state-of-the-art facility would not be able to be constructed overnight. This would cause officers to have to miss out on valuable and required training. A parcel search shows the City currently owns at least four properties large enough and in acceptable areas to accommodate such a project. This would allow the legacy Range to stay in possession of the County. It would also allow officers the ability to train and qualify while the new facility is being built. Also, with the current Budget issues with the city funding it seems like building a new facility would be a waste of city money.The Yeager Firearms Range is not a state-of-the-art facility; however, with the financial and sweat equity put in over the past 36 years by members, we do feel it is “our” range. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office and FOP Lodge #18 are committed to continuing the legacy of the Yeager Range going forward.The current administration from the Hutchinson Police Department is only interested in expanding their current reach over everything. They want control of our range so decisions can be made by them and them only. We have never excluded or controlled use of the range from any agency that requested the use. We have been working with Sheriff’s Office Administration and County admin to come to an agreement to upgrade the current range facilities. The Hutchinson Police Department was asked if they wanted to be a part of this and they declined due to funding. The county was prepared to fund these upgrades completely. Then the Hutchinson Police Department decided they wanted the land and complete control over it. A contract was drawn up by County Officials for a joint agreement for the range property. The City has refused to sign that contract. The fact that the Sheriff’s Office was willing to give up anything on this matter shows our willingness to work together. The City’s unwillingness to agree to the terms shows their true motives as to just take over anything and everything they can.There was an article that went out discussing the current status of our SRT and ERT teams. There has been a joint team between the Hutchinson Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office. The lack of trust for the Hutchinson Police Department administration caused that agreement to dissolve.Our agency still agreed to train and assist the Hutchinson Police Department on any call outs as per the region guidelines. The Hutchinson Police Department had an ERT activation in the city and violated those guidelines by calling a response team out of Harvey County to assist them even though we had active members on scene. This again shows the bitterness and unwillingness to work together.The Hutchinson Police Department's ERT team put the lives of the citizens at risk by not calling our team because they were mad that the teams split. This is just another example of how the greater good is not important to them.There has been talk of why the Sheriff’s Office and the Hutchinson Police Department cannot get along and work together on things. This is an issue with the Hutchinson Police Department Admin. There is no way to work with someone who thinks the only way to do things is their way. A perfect example of this happened within the last two weeks. The Sheriff’s Office decided to cut our losses with the range and we removed all county owned items from the property. This would allow the Hutchinson Police Department the opportunity to start fresh with their state of the art training facility they claim to be building. The Chief has stated numerous times that this facility is going to be open to every Law Enforcement Agency in the county. After removing our equipment a letter was sent telling the city, the county would no longer cover insurance and utilities on the property (which we had done for over 30 years) after July 30th.&nbsp;On July 9th (21 days before the letter stated the county would no longer cover the property) The Hutchinson Police Department at the order of Chief Hooper removed the county owned lock from the gate. This lock had a four digit combination that was known by all agencies. The Hutchinson Police Department then placed their own lock on the gate which does not give every agency in the county access as stated by Chief Hooper. Sheriff’s Office Admin asked for the code to the new lock and were told no. An email was also sent out to numerous Law Enforcement Agencies in the county by the Hutchinson Police Department asking if they wanted to be on a committee for their new range. The Sheriff’s Office was not included in this email. It appears Chief Hooper wants total control and is not willing to have any discussion over the issue.We would also like to reassure all the citizens of Reno County that the issues between the agencies that is currently going on will in no way change our duty to serve this great county. The Sheriff’s Office has always and will always put the safety and security of the citizens first.

FOP Lodge 18 writes open letter regarding firearms range issue

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Several candidates for local and statewide office on the Republican side will be in Hutchinson for Third Thursday.

The county Republican committee has provided a schedule of speakers who will be at the southeast corner of Avenue A and Main between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. that night.

Here is the schedule provided to Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573042702099.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Several candidates for local and statewide office on the Republican side will be in Hutchinson for Third Thursday.The county Republican committee has provided a schedule of speakers who will be at the southeast corner of Avenue A and Main between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. that night.Here is the schedule provided to Hutch Post.5:00 p.m. - Senator Kelly Warren5:30 p.m.- Representative Joe Seiwert5:45 p.m.- Greg Fast6:00 p.m.- Honorable Jeff Colyer6:30 p.m.- Sarah Bagwell6:45 p.m.- Cheryl Thompson7:00 p.m.- Honorable Kris Kobach7:30 p.m.- Brock Wells7:45 p.m.- Senator Caryn Tyson8:15 p.m.- Senator Mark Steffen

Republicans bringing candidates to town for Third Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce will be welcoming new teachers to the area school districts again this year.

The Chamber will be putting together welcome/goody bags again for all the new teachers in Reno County and would like help filling the bags.&nbsp;

If you have items to share such as reusable bags, hand sanitizer, tissue packs, tumblers, salad shakers, note pads, pens, or other items, please have them delivered to the Chamber office by Friday, July 30th.&nbsp;

For more information on this project, contact Marcy Kauffman at 620-662-3391 or <a href="http://marcyk@hutchchamber.com">marcyk@hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625686816585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce will be welcoming new teachers to the area school districts again this year.The Chamber will be putting together welcome/goody bags again for all the new teachers in Reno County and would like help filling the bags.&nbsp;If you have items to share such as reusable bags, hand sanitizer, tissue packs, tumblers, salad shakers, note pads, pens, or other items, please have them delivered to the Chamber office by Friday, July 30th.&nbsp;For more information on this project, contact Marcy Kauffman at 620-662-3391 or <a href="http://marcyk@hutchchamber.com">marcyk@hutchchamber.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chamber looking for items for teacher goodie bags

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tickets are now available for the annual Farm to Table event. This year’s dinner is set for Friday, August 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mary Clark Community Courtyard at the Dillon Nature Center.

The dinner features a three course meal with food from local producers prepared by local chefs. Music and entertainment will also be provided from local musicians.

Tickets are $65 for an individual or $500 for a table of eight. Tickets can be purchased at <a href="http://hutchrec.com">hutchrec.com</a> or in person at the Dillon Nature Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information you can call the Dillon Nature Center at 620-663-7411.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626292237931.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tickets are now available for the annual Farm to Table event. This year’s dinner is set for Friday, August 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mary Clark Community Courtyard at the Dillon Nature Center.The dinner features a three course meal with food from local producers prepared by local chefs. Music and entertainment will also be provided from local musicians.Tickets are $65 for an individual or $500 for a table of eight. Tickets can be purchased at <a href="http://hutchrec.com">hutchrec.com</a> or in person at the Dillon Nature Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information you can call the Dillon Nature Center at 620-663-7411.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Farm to Table event August 6

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 teachers have a new contract to vote on for the 2021-22 school year.

The district and the teachers union approved the contract following a negotiation session Tuesday afternoon.

Under the proposed agreement, teachers will see a 2.75% increase in pay. That will raise the starting base pay to $40,473 per year. The union was asking for a 3% increase while the board had countered with 2.5%.

The teachers will vote on the proposal in the near future and the board will take their final action during their next agenda session August 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587053540131.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 teachers have a new contract to vote on for the 2021-22 school year.The district and the teachers union approved the contract following a negotiation session Tuesday afternoon.Under the proposed agreement, teachers will see a 2.75% increase in pay. That will raise the starting base pay to $40,473 per year. The union was asking for a 3% increase while the board had countered with 2.5%.The teachers will vote on the proposal in the near future and the board will take their final action during their next agenda session August 9.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven USD 312 and teachers reach tentative agreement


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Miss Kansas 2021 Taylor Clark was crowned last weekend in Pratt. For her, it was really a culmination of years of dreaming about winning the title.

"I am still absolutely on cloud nine, it doesn't quite seem real yet," Clark said. "This was my first time competing at Miss Kansas as a candidate, but, I grew up in St. John, which is about 25 miles north of Pratt and so I grew up involved with the Miss Kansas organization because we were so close and my family has a lot of ties to Pratt, so when I was five, in 2005, was the first year of the Sunflower Princess program, or now it's called the Sunflower Mentoring program. I got to go and be mentored by the contestants and it was just a really fun time for me to get to go on stage and see everyone do their talents and talk about community service, so from that point on, I just knew I wanted to stay involved and compete someday."

Clark won the Miss Kansas Outstanding Teen competition in 2017.

"I had a wonderful experience that year, getting to travel Kansas, go to the national competition and just really get to meet with a lot of people from across the state and serve and talk to a lot of kiddos. I just loved the experience."

Clark won the Miss Augusta competition to qualify for Miss Kansas. She also won a preliminary talent contest award for her drumming. She was named the Pam Matlock Rookie of the Year and won the overall title. Her total scholarship winnings this year thus far are over $10,500. She hopes this year to be able to show the importance of music education, as that is what she is going to school for at Kansas State.

"Percussion and drumming in general is a very male dominated field," Clark said. "I'm one of very few women I know that is competing, not only in this organization, but just playing in general. There are more women now, but even at K-State this last year, I was the only woman in the percussion studio. Being able to share my talent on the Miss Kansas stage, I was the only woman there doing that and perhaps the only woman who has ever done that at the Miss Kansas competition. It was just a huge blessing for me. It's absolutely what I love to do."

Clark will take the year off from her studies to fulfill her Miss Kansas obligations and then return next year to finish her degree. The 100th anniversary Miss America competition will be broadcast live in December 2021 from the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626274623844.jpeg" alt="Taylor Clark-Miss Kansas 2021-Courtesy Linda Werhan Photography" />
 <figcaption>Taylor Clark-Miss Kansas 2021-Courtesy Linda Werhan Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Miss Kansas 2021 Taylor Clark was crowned last weekend in Pratt. For her, it was really a culmination of years of dreaming about winning the title."I am still absolutely on cloud nine, it doesn't quite seem real yet," Clark said. "This was my first time competing at Miss Kansas as a candidate, but, I grew up in St. John, which is about 25 miles north of Pratt and so I grew up involved with the Miss Kansas organization because we were so close and my family has a lot of ties to Pratt, so when I was five, in 2005, was the first year of the Sunflower Princess program, or now it's called the Sunflower Mentoring program. I got to go and be mentored by the contestants and it was just a really fun time for me to get to go on stage and see everyone do their talents and talk about community service, so from that point on, I just knew I wanted to stay involved and compete someday."Clark won the Miss Kansas Outstanding Teen competition in 2017."I had a wonderful experience that year, getting to travel Kansas, go to the national competition and just really get to meet with a lot of people from across the state and serve and talk to a lot of kiddos. I just loved the experience."Clark won the Miss Augusta competition to qualify for Miss Kansas. She also won a preliminary talent contest award for her drumming. She was named the Pam Matlock Rookie of the Year and won the overall title. Her total scholarship winnings this year thus far are over $10,500. She hopes this year to be able to show the importance of music education, as that is what she is going to school for at Kansas State."Percussion and drumming in general is a very male dominated field," Clark said. "I'm one of very few women I know that is competing, not only in this organization, but just playing in general. There are more women now, but even at K-State this last year, I was the only woman in the percussion studio. Being able to share my talent on the Miss Kansas stage, I was the only woman there doing that and perhaps the only woman who has ever done that at the Miss Kansas competition. It was just a huge blessing for me. It's absolutely what I love to do."Clark will take the year off from her studies to fulfill her Miss Kansas obligations and then return next year to finish her degree. The 100th anniversary Miss America competition will be broadcast live in December 2021 from the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.

2021 Miss Kansas grew up dreaming, ended up drumming to win


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Kansas State Fair board on Wednesday morning named Bryan Schulz the fair's next general manager.&nbsp;

Prior to this, Bryan served as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the&nbsp; Red River Valley Fair Association in West Fargo, North Dakota. He served in this&nbsp; capacity from January 2008 to December 2019. He is a 1991 graduate of North Dakota&nbsp; State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, Speech and Animal&nbsp; Science.&nbsp;

In addition to his work with the Red River Valley Fair Association, Bryan was also active&nbsp; within the International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) where he graduated from&nbsp; the Institute of Fair Management in 2012 and received his Certified Fair Executive (CFE)&nbsp; designation in 2013. He was a member of the North Dakota Association of Fairs Board&nbsp; of Directors from 2011 to 2019 and served as President in 2016.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bryan also served as a West Fargo City Commissioner for 8 years where he served as&nbsp; Vice-Mayor for two years, and as a member of the 119th Fighter Wing of the North&nbsp; Dakota Air National Guard.&nbsp;

He is active in the community serving on several committees and boards. Bryan, his wife Lisa and two daughters Karli and Katie live in Las Cruces, New Mexico.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schulz replaces&nbsp; interim GM Ed Berger, who stepped in for Robin Jennison, who resigned from the fair after the cancellation of the 2020 event due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; Schulz will be paid a salary of $125,000 plus benefits. He begins his duties August 2.

More information will be posted after an 11:30 a.m. introductory press conference.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Kansas State Fair board on Wednesday morning named Bryan Schulz the fair's next general manager.&nbsp;Prior to this, Bryan served as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the&nbsp; Red River Valley Fair Association in West Fargo, North Dakota. He served in this&nbsp; capacity from January 2008 to December 2019. He is a 1991 graduate of North Dakota&nbsp; State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, Speech and Animal&nbsp; Science.&nbsp;In addition to his work with the Red River Valley Fair Association, Bryan was also active&nbsp; within the International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) where he graduated from&nbsp; the Institute of Fair Management in 2012 and received his Certified Fair Executive (CFE)&nbsp; designation in 2013. He was a member of the North Dakota Association of Fairs Board&nbsp; of Directors from 2011 to 2019 and served as President in 2016.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryan also served as a West Fargo City Commissioner for 8 years where he served as&nbsp; Vice-Mayor for two years, and as a member of the 119th Fighter Wing of the North&nbsp; Dakota Air National Guard.&nbsp;He is active in the community serving on several committees and boards. Bryan, his wife Lisa and two daughters Karli and Katie live in Las Cruces, New Mexico.&nbsp;&nbsp;Schulz replaces&nbsp; interim GM Ed Berger, who stepped in for Robin Jennison, who resigned from the fair after the cancellation of the 2020 event due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; Schulz will be paid a salary of $125,000 plus benefits. He begins his duties August 2.More information will be posted after an 11:30 a.m. introductory press conference.

State Fair names new general manager


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners set the ceiling for their 2022 county budget on Tuesday.

"That brings the proposed mill levy to be 39.498," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "The Revenue Neutral Rate has a mill levy of 39.967. This would bring in $25.3 million in taxes, compared to this year of $25.6 million. It's about a 5% reduction in the mill levy. It eats into a little bit of the cash balance but with the numbers, we still would probably have about four months of a cash balance."

This now means that the county, once they have the budget hearing on August 24, cannot spend more than that amount in 2022. They can always spend less.

"We need to be careful about spending too much of that cash," Partington said. "Expenses are always going up. Even if we stay flat with the number of personnel, the cost of products always goes up. The cost of us doing business goes up. You know, just because we're a government doesn't mean we don't have to pay the increase in commodity costs or personnel cost taxes. We have our own overhead that goes up, so it's hard to stay flat for very long."

Some taxpayers with additional assessments for rural fire districts, for example, may still see their taxes increase, as most of those are above revenue neutral this year. That is a separate budget with a separate hearing from the overall county budget.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626263063334.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners set the ceiling for their 2022 county budget on Tuesday."That brings the proposed mill levy to be 39.498," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "The Revenue Neutral Rate has a mill levy of 39.967. This would bring in $25.3 million in taxes, compared to this year of $25.6 million. It's about a 5% reduction in the mill levy. It eats into a little bit of the cash balance but with the numbers, we still would probably have about four months of a cash balance."This now means that the county, once they have the budget hearing on August 24, cannot spend more than that amount in 2022. They can always spend less."We need to be careful about spending too much of that cash," Partington said. "Expenses are always going up. Even if we stay flat with the number of personnel, the cost of products always goes up. The cost of us doing business goes up. You know, just because we're a government doesn't mean we don't have to pay the increase in commodity costs or personnel cost taxes. We have our own overhead that goes up, so it's hard to stay flat for very long."Some taxpayers with additional assessments for rural fire districts, for example, may still see their taxes increase, as most of those are above revenue neutral this year. That is a separate budget with a separate hearing from the overall county budget.

Ceiling for county budget for 2022 below revenue neutral rate

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After being forced to hold off on one of their more popular community projects last year, the Hutchinson Fire Department will bring back their school supply drive this summer.

The fire department will be at the Dillons store on E 5th, the Dillons Marketplace on E 30th, and Walmart collecting donated school supplies. Collection dates are Friday, July 30 from 4 until 8 p.m. and Saturday, July 31 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. A second round of donations will be taken Friday, August 6 from 4 until 8 p.m. and Saturday August 7 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.&nbsp;

Donated items can also be dropped off at Hutchinson fire stations, the command and training center on E 4th Avenue, the three RCB Bank locations in Hutchinson and at Allen Samuels CDJR.&nbsp;

The drives will take both school supplies and cash donations. All supplies are handed out to all Reno County school districts to be distributed by teachers to students who need them.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597775125060.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After being forced to hold off on one of their more popular community projects last year, the Hutchinson Fire Department will bring back their school supply drive this summer.The fire department will be at the Dillons store on E 5th, the Dillons Marketplace on E 30th, and Walmart collecting donated school supplies. Collection dates are Friday, July 30 from 4 until 8 p.m. and Saturday, July 31 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. A second round of donations will be taken Friday, August 6 from 4 until 8 p.m. and Saturday August 7 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.&nbsp;Donated items can also be dropped off at Hutchinson fire stations, the command and training center on E 4th Avenue, the three RCB Bank locations in Hutchinson and at Allen Samuels CDJR.&nbsp;The drives will take both school supplies and cash donations. All supplies are handed out to all Reno County school districts to be distributed by teachers to students who need them.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HFD brings back school supply drive

NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Nationally-known dementia educator and dementia communication coach Erin Bonitto will give a presentation at Bluestem Communities’ annual Innovations in Living with Dementia community forum. The free online event will be Wednesday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m.

Bonitto's presentation, “I Already Told You…Don’t You Remember?: Understanding Memory Loss, Dementia and Dementia Communication,” will help participants focus on what the person with Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementia needs their caregivers to know. Bonitto, is an expert in dementia care and communication, as well as the founder of Gemini Consulting and innovator of Life Enrichment Systems for Dementia, a dementia education, programming and skill coaching framework.

The Innovations in Living with Dementia forum is designed for anyone providing care for someone living with dementia, both professional caregivers and family or friends.

Pre-registration is required, and spots are limited. One Continuing Education Unit (CEU) approved by the State of Kansas is also available for $15 for those who desire it. Register at <a href="http://bluestemks.org/dementiaforum">bluestemks.org/dementiaforum</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624288409627.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Nationally-known dementia educator and dementia communication coach Erin Bonitto will give a presentation at Bluestem Communities’ annual Innovations in Living with Dementia community forum. The free online event will be Wednesday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m.Bonitto's presentation, “I Already Told You…Don’t You Remember?: Understanding Memory Loss, Dementia and Dementia Communication,” will help participants focus on what the person with Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementia needs their caregivers to know. Bonitto, is an expert in dementia care and communication, as well as the founder of Gemini Consulting and innovator of Life Enrichment Systems for Dementia, a dementia education, programming and skill coaching framework.The Innovations in Living with Dementia forum is designed for anyone providing care for someone living with dementia, both professional caregivers and family or friends.Pre-registration is required, and spots are limited. One Continuing Education Unit (CEU) approved by the State of Kansas is also available for $15 for those who desire it. Register at <a href="http://bluestemks.org/dementiaforum">bluestemks.org/dementiaforum</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Special online event offered on dementia

MCPHERSON – A Kentucky man pleaded guilty to a securities fraud charge and agreed to pay $25,000 in restitution to a McPherson County victim, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

Bryan Scott Hurt, 52, of Glasgow, Ky., pleaded guilty last week in McPherson County District Court to one count of securities fraud. The plea was accepted by McPherson County District Judge John Klenda. Sentencing was scheduled for Sept. 16 at 3 p.m.

An investigation by the Office of the Kansas Securities Commissioner determined that Hurt’s company solicited a $25,000 investment in an oil and gas lease between December 2014 and January 2015 from a McPherson County resident. Investigators determined that Hurt diverted the investment for personal use and to pay other, unrelated investors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626203292725.png" alt="Hurt-photo McPherson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Hurt-photo McPherson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON – A Kentucky man pleaded guilty to a securities fraud charge and agreed to pay $25,000 in restitution to a McPherson County victim, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.Bryan Scott Hurt, 52, of Glasgow, Ky., pleaded guilty last week in McPherson County District Court to one count of securities fraud. The plea was accepted by McPherson County District Judge John Klenda. Sentencing was scheduled for Sept. 16 at 3 p.m.An investigation by the Office of the Kansas Securities Commissioner determined that Hurt’s company solicited a $25,000 investment in an oil and gas lease between December 2014 and January 2015 from a McPherson County resident. Investigators determined that Hurt diverted the investment for personal use and to pay other, unrelated investors.

Man admits to $25K oil, gas lease fraud in Kansas

NEWTON, Kan.—Law enforcement authorities investigating the fatal&nbsp; shooting of a 14-year-old Hesston girl&nbsp;filed formal charges in the case, according to the Harvey County Attorney’s Office.

Just before 10 p.m. Sunday, the Newton Police Department responded to an incident at a home in the 900 block of S. Walnut Street in Newton where a group of teens were hanging out, according to a media release from police.

Police found a 14-year-old girl injured with a gunshot wound. First responders provided medical treatment, but the girl was pronounced dead at the scene.

On Monday morning, police took a 16-year-old boy into custody at his home.&nbsp; Prosecutors charged him with one count each of alleged first-degree murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and criminal threat.

His name was not released by the district attorney

HARVEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old Hesston girl and have a juvenile suspect in custody.

Just before 10 p.m. Sunday, the suspect identified as a 16-year-old boy arrived at a house in the 900 block of South Walnut in Newton where a group of teens were hanging out, according to a media release from police.

Witnesses said the boy was visibly intoxicated and was waving around a gun. He pointed the gun at others in the room before fatally shooting the girl.

Witnesses and neighbors attempted to perform CPR and called 911, and the suspect ran from the house.&nbsp; Newton Police arrested the suspect just after 10 a.m. Monday at his house in Newton.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the suspect or the victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626213055741.png" alt="According to police, witnesses said the boy was visibly intoxicated and was waving around a gun. He pointed the gun at others in the room before fatally shooting the girl.-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>According to police, witnesses said the boy was visibly intoxicated and was waving around a gun. He pointed the gun at others in the room before fatally shooting the girl.-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan.—Law enforcement authorities investigating the fatal&nbsp; shooting of a 14-year-old Hesston girl&nbsp;filed formal charges in the case, according to the Harvey County Attorney’s Office.Just before 10 p.m. Sunday, the Newton Police Department responded to an incident at a home in the 900 block of S. Walnut Street in Newton where a group of teens were hanging out, according to a media release from police.Police found a 14-year-old girl injured with a gunshot wound. First responders provided medical treatment, but the girl was pronounced dead at the scene.On Monday morning, police took a 16-year-old boy into custody at his home.&nbsp; Prosecutors charged him with one count each of alleged first-degree murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and criminal threat.His name was not released by the district attorney------------HARVEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old Hesston girl and have a juvenile suspect in custody.Just before 10 p.m. Sunday, the suspect identified as a 16-year-old boy arrived at a house in the 900 block of South Walnut in Newton where a group of teens were hanging out, according to a media release from police.Witnesses said the boy was visibly intoxicated and was waving around a gun. He pointed the gun at others in the room before fatally shooting the girl.Witnesses and neighbors attempted to perform CPR and called 911, and the suspect ran from the house.&nbsp; Newton Police arrested the suspect just after 10 a.m. Monday at his house in Newton.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the suspect or the victim.

Boy charged in shooting death of 14-year-old girl in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another fundraiser is set for next week to benefit Hutchinson High School softball coach Clayton Evans.

Evans recently suffered a spinal cord injury and several fundraisers and a GoFundMe page are in place to help offset expenses.

On Thursday, July 22 from 4 p.m. until closing, Gambino’s at 310 S Main in South Hutchinson will be holding a special fundraiser. A portion of all sales that night will go to help the Evans family.&nbsp;

That's for all dine in, carry out or delivery orders. Donations will also be accepted during the evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626209323553.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another fundraiser is set for next week to benefit Hutchinson High School softball coach Clayton Evans.Evans recently suffered a spinal cord injury and several fundraisers and a GoFundMe page are in place to help offset expenses.On Thursday, July 22 from 4 p.m. until closing, Gambino’s at 310 S Main in South Hutchinson will be holding a special fundraiser. A portion of all sales that night will go to help the Evans family.&nbsp;That's for all dine in, carry out or delivery orders. Donations will also be accepted during the evening.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local restaurant holding fundraiser for HHS coach


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners heard during public comment Tuesday from South Hutchinson City Administrator Joseph Turner, but a majority believed it was inappropriate to discuss the conflict between that city and the county over the bridge on Scott Boulevard near the county public works building in Tuesday's meeting.

"I believe that first, before we bring it to the commission and so forth, that Mr. Turner contact Randy, our administrator and set up a meeting ahead of time with Don at the Public Works and Randy and Joe, our county counselor and review all of this," said chairman Ron Hirst. "We'll be hearing from you today, but my feeling is that we need to get this with the proper people to fully explain everything and get all the information together and to cover it, because we are limited by state statutes, unfortunately, versus the city, who has some home rule."

Turner is trying to understand what happened that makes that bridge the city's responsibility.

"Between 1986 and 2012, the county was maintaining the road and bridge and then in 2012, there was some sort of discussion amongst this body and not these members and that agreement was terminated," Turner said. "I do not know what the genesis for that exactly was, but the agreement was terminated and we were told that the road was in good condition in a letter dated 2012. Essentially, the county wiped its hands and said it's yours, you guys take it over. The long and the short of it is that the bridge is a $700,000 project. That is outside of our budget. We're spending literally $700,000 at this moment to get the water line replaced under Avenue F."

Turner contends that the heavy county traffic that has to take an alternate route from public works on Avenue F at the very least contributed to the water issues. The commission did not add the item to the agenda to dispense of it and Commissioner Daniel Friesen disagreed with that decision.

"I think Mr. Turner erred in his approach, but I think we need to give him some latitude," Friesen said. "Number one, he's new. Number two, he's on a time constraint and I've been in his position. City of Buhler, we don't have an administrator, so that's the Mayor's job. I've been exactly where he's been before. It's almost embarassing for a city elected official or a city official to come up here and look at everybody, explain something that's really important to them and get the stone cold faces from the commission and the staff and then them walk away. I know, and I think you guys know that the staff is fully aware of this issue."

There was no resolution at the meeting Tuesday. Turner needs to know what to do so they can get the process started on getting the bridge replaced. If the county won't help the city, they will likely have to use special assessments to pay for the project.

The relevant statute is 68-506f. According to the <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/b2019_20/statute/068_000_0000_chapter/068_005_0000_article/068_005_0006f_section/068_005_0006f_k/">Kansas Legislature's website, it reads as follows:</a>

"City connecting links in county highway system; agreements for maintenance; compensation or maintenance by county. The board of county commissioners of any county and the governing body of any city having a population of less than 5,000 which is located within such county are hereby authorized to enter into agreements for the maintenance of streets within such cities which form connecting links in the system of county roads and highways included in the major collector road system pursuant to article 17 of chapter 68 of the Kansas Statutes Annotated, and amendments thereto, or in the system of county minor collector roads and highways. Such agreements may provide for the maintenance of such connecting links by such cities and the reimbursement or payment of compensation to such cities by the county therefor. In the absence of agreement between the county and such cities regarding the maintenance of such connecting links it shall be the duty of the county to maintain all such connecting links in the county road and highway system. Payments to such cities for the maintenance of connecting links in county road and highway systems shall be made from the road and bridge fund of the county."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620142924521.png" alt="Reno Co.png" />
 <figcaption>Reno Co.png</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners heard during public comment Tuesday from South Hutchinson City Administrator Joseph Turner, but a majority believed it was inappropriate to discuss the conflict between that city and the county over the bridge on Scott Boulevard near the county public works building in Tuesday's meeting."I believe that first, before we bring it to the commission and so forth, that Mr. Turner contact Randy, our administrator and set up a meeting ahead of time with Don at the Public Works and Randy and Joe, our county counselor and review all of this," said chairman Ron Hirst. "We'll be hearing from you today, but my feeling is that we need to get this with the proper people to fully explain everything and get all the information together and to cover it, because we are limited by state statutes, unfortunately, versus the city, who has some home rule."Turner is trying to understand what happened that makes that bridge the city's responsibility."Between 1986 and 2012, the county was maintaining the road and bridge and then in 2012, there was some sort of discussion amongst this body and not these members and that agreement was terminated," Turner said. "I do not know what the genesis for that exactly was, but the agreement was terminated and we were told that the road was in good condition in a letter dated 2012. Essentially, the county wiped its hands and said it's yours, you guys take it over. The long and the short of it is that the bridge is a $700,000 project. That is outside of our budget. We're spending literally $700,000 at this moment to get the water line replaced under Avenue F."Turner contends that the heavy county traffic that has to take an alternate route from public works on Avenue F at the very least contributed to the water issues. The commission did not add the item to the agenda to dispense of it and Commissioner Daniel Friesen disagreed with that decision."I think Mr. Turner erred in his approach, but I think we need to give him some latitude," Friesen said. "Number one, he's new. Number two, he's on a time constraint and I've been in his position. City of Buhler, we don't have an administrator, so that's the Mayor's job. I've been exactly where he's been before. It's almost embarassing for a city elected official or a city official to come up here and look at everybody, explain something that's really important to them and get the stone cold faces from the commission and the staff and then them walk away. I know, and I think you guys know that the staff is fully aware of this issue."There was no resolution at the meeting Tuesday. Turner needs to know what to do so they can get the process started on getting the bridge replaced. If the county won't help the city, they will likely have to use special assessments to pay for the project.The relevant statute is 68-506f. According to the <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/b2019_20/statute/068_000_0000_chapter/068_005_0000_article/068_005_0006f_section/068_005_0006f_k/">Kansas Legislature's website, it reads as follows:</a>"City connecting links in county highway system; agreements for maintenance; compensation or maintenance by county. The board of county commissioners of any county and the governing body of any city having a population of less than 5,000 which is located within such county are hereby authorized to enter into agreements for the maintenance of streets within such cities which form connecting links in the system of county roads and highways included in the major collector road system pursuant to article 17 of chapter 68 of the Kansas Statutes Annotated, and amendments thereto, or in the system of county minor collector roads and highways. Such agreements may provide for the maintenance of such connecting links by such cities and the reimbursement or payment of compensation to such cities by the county therefor. In the absence of agreement between the county and such cities regarding the maintenance of such connecting links it shall be the duty of the county to maintain all such connecting links in the county road and highway system. Payments to such cities for the maintenance of connecting links in county road and highway systems shall be made from the road and bridge fund of the county."

South Hutchinson administrator speaks to commission about Scott Blvd. bridge

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A senior living center in Hutchinson is getting a major overhaul and expansion.

Legend Senior Living announced it will expand its campus at 2416 Brentwood by more than 10,000 square feet. New construction includes the addition of a movie theater, bistro, a combination country kitchen and meeting room, and an expanded dining room. Remodeling and reallocation will add a medical suite and move the post office.&nbsp;

Areas to be expanded by internal remodel including Memory Care activity space and the two main building entries. The interior areas, all corridors and commons, will see a total makeover of ceiling, floor, paint and finish, with exterior improvements including new windows and siding. Wichita’s LK Architecture designed the expansion. Conco Construction is the contractor.

Work is expected to be completed by the summer of 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626203904327.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A senior living center in Hutchinson is getting a major overhaul and expansion.Legend Senior Living announced it will expand its campus at 2416 Brentwood by more than 10,000 square feet. New construction includes the addition of a movie theater, bistro, a combination country kitchen and meeting room, and an expanded dining room. Remodeling and reallocation will add a medical suite and move the post office.&nbsp;Areas to be expanded by internal remodel including Memory Care activity space and the two main building entries. The interior areas, all corridors and commons, will see a total makeover of ceiling, floor, paint and finish, with exterior improvements including new windows and siding. Wichita’s LK Architecture designed the expansion. Conco Construction is the contractor.Work is expected to be completed by the summer of 2022.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Legend makes plans to expand


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners will look at resolutions for their consideration to put a question on the ballot for voters where voters get to decide whether or not to expand the commission from three to five members. Commissioner Daniel Friesen acknowledges that the public really does not yet understand the potential expansion.

"We've not done as good a job as we can, both from a commission level, from a staff level," Friesen said. "I think part of it's just getting through the process to know what we're going to explain, but one thing that I've been told multiple times is that the maps aren't on our website. We need to get those on there right away."

Friesen notes that even if you add two more commissioners at their current salary, it really has no material effect on the budget, and he has made it clear to staff as have the other commissioners that cuts will have to be made elsewhere to provide the money for new commissioners if the people want them.

"I get the mathematical point, I suppose, that your one commissioner has one fifth of the vote instead of one third," Friesen said. "At the same time, you've got a commissioner that's focused on a fifth of the county, instead of a third of the county. There are diverse opinions in every district. To think that one person gets to talk to their commissioner and that's the way the commissioner is going to vote really isn't how it works."

Right now, there is not a final map of the new proposed districts yet, nor has the resolution officially been passed to put the question on the ballot. County Counselor Joe O'Sullivan has some legal work to do to bring potential maps and resolutions to the commission for them to choose from. They have to get the ballot language to the election office by August 10th to get it ready for November.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
download the Hutch Post mobile app. 
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624541123020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners will look at resolutions for their consideration to put a question on the ballot for voters where voters get to decide whether or not to expand the commission from three to five members. Commissioner Daniel Friesen acknowledges that the public really does not yet understand the potential expansion."We've not done as good a job as we can, both from a commission level, from a staff level," Friesen said. "I think part of it's just getting through the process to know what we're going to explain, but one thing that I've been told multiple times is that the maps aren't on our website. We need to get those on there right away."Friesen notes that even if you add two more commissioners at their current salary, it really has no material effect on the budget, and he has made it clear to staff as have the other commissioners that cuts will have to be made elsewhere to provide the money for new commissioners if the people want them."I get the mathematical point, I suppose, that your one commissioner has one fifth of the vote instead of one third," Friesen said. "At the same time, you've got a commissioner that's focused on a fifth of the county, instead of a third of the county. There are diverse opinions in every district. To think that one person gets to talk to their commissioner and that's the way the commissioner is going to vote really isn't how it works."Right now, there is not a final map of the new proposed districts yet, nor has the resolution officially been passed to put the question on the ballot. County Counselor Joe O'Sullivan has some legal work to do to bring potential maps and resolutions to the commission for them to choose from. They have to get the ballot language to the election office by August 10th to get it ready for November.
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
download the Hutch Post mobile app. 
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Commissioners will continue process forward on expansion ballot question


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The USD 308 Board of Education elected their President and Vice President for the 2021-2022 school year during its regular meeting Monday (July 12, 2021).

At Monday’s meeting, the USD 308 Board of Education elected Greg Meredith as Board President and Lance Patterson as Vice President.

Also during Monday’s meeting, the Board heard the following topics:

Superintendent Mike Folks shared information on enrollment, budget process dates and upcoming work-session topics

Approved resignation of Annette Roberson as Board of Education Member

Discussed KASB policies and administrative regulations

Approved a new position for At Risk Clerk

Approved Resolution 2022-002 Establishing the Meeting dates, Locations and Times of the Board of Education of USD 308

Approved switching Friday, September 17, 2021 from an instructional day to K-12 professional development day

Approved FastBridge Subscription and Training for 2021-2022

Approved Narcan Policy &amp; Medication Administration Guidelines 2021-2022

Approved eliminating the district technology for 2021-2022 (FY2022)  

Approved recommended motion to rescind all policy statements not codified as policy

Approved the Annual Appointments and Designations 2021-2022

Approved Resolution 2022-001 Establishing the Board’s Election of School Board Officers

Approved Resolution 2022-003 Listing of Recommended USD 308 Activity Funds to be Established as the Approved List of District Activity Funds and to Adopt Activity Fund Internal Accounting Control Procedures

Approved Resolution 2022-004 Providing for the Destruction of Certain Records

Approved Resolution 2022-005 Authorizing Investments in the Municipal Investment Pool

Approved Resolution 2022-008 District Office Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 Faris Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 Graber Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 Lincoln Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 Magnet School at Allen Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 McCandless Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 Morgan Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 Wiley Elementary Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 HMS-7 Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 HMS-8 Petty Cash Account

Approved 2022-009 CTEA Petty Cash Account

Approved the Legal Services Letter of Engagement – John Caton 2021-2022

The Board approved the following personnel changes for the district.

                                            Hired

Melissa Lazaro Sanchez, Teacher Assistant Substitute, Hutcherson Center, effective August 8, 2021

Luz Gomez, Title I Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Angelica Mendoza, Title I Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Teighlor Henderson, Building Para Substitute, Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Monica Yoder, Educational Aide, Graber Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Amber Kerns, Educational Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Anette Roberson, Hutchinson High School Daycare Director, Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Maria Chinchilla, Educational Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Arie Roper, SLP Para, Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Myroslava Clobes, CCS Para, Wiley Elementary, effective May 26, 2021

Stephanie Hogan, Food Service Secretary, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school year

Martin Vieyra, Educational Aide, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school year

Nicole Stowell, Substitute Teacher Assistant at Hutcherson Center, to Teacher Assistant at Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Rachel Clark, Para Sub for District, to CSS Para at Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

Karen Voss, Covid Ed Aid at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Para at Hutchinson High School, effective at start of 2021-2022 school year

Brooke Klaasen, Covid Ed Aid at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Para at Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school year

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The USD 308 Board of Education elected their President and Vice President for the 2021-2022 school year during its regular meeting Monday (July 12, 2021).At Monday’s meeting, the USD 308 Board of Education elected Greg Meredith as Board President and Lance Patterson as Vice President.Also during Monday’s meeting, the Board heard the following topics:Superintendent Mike Folks shared information on enrollment, budget process dates and upcoming work-session topicsApproved resignation of Annette Roberson as Board of Education MemberDiscussed KASB policies and administrative regulationsApproved a new position for At Risk ClerkApproved Resolution 2022-002 Establishing the Meeting dates, Locations and Times of the Board of Education of USD 308Approved switching Friday, September 17, 2021 from an instructional day to K-12 professional development dayApproved FastBridge Subscription and Training for 2021-2022Approved Narcan Policy &amp; Medication Administration Guidelines 2021-2022Approved eliminating the district technology for 2021-2022 (FY2022) Approved recommended motion to rescind all policy statements not codified as policyApproved the Annual Appointments and Designations 2021-2022Approved Resolution 2022-001 Establishing the Board’s Election of School Board OfficersApproved Resolution 2022-003 Listing of Recommended USD 308 Activity Funds to be Established as the Approved List of District Activity Funds and to Adopt Activity Fund Internal Accounting Control ProceduresApproved Resolution 2022-004 Providing for the Destruction of Certain RecordsApproved Resolution 2022-005 Authorizing Investments in the Municipal Investment PoolApproved Resolution 2022-006 Home RuleApproved Resolution 2022-007 GAAP WaiverApproved Resolution 2022-008 District Office Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 Faris Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 Graber Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 Lincoln Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 Magnet School at Allen Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 McCandless Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 Morgan Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 Wiley Elementary Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 HMS-7 Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 HMS-8 Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 HHS Petty Cash AccountApproved 2022-009 CTEA Petty Cash AccountApproved Resolution 2022-020 EFARCApproved Accounts Payable June 2021Approved Gifts to SchoolsApproved Early Payment ProcedureApproved Milk Bid 2021-2022Approved 2021-2022 HandbooksApproved the Hourly School CalendarApproved the Legal Services Letter of Engagement – John Caton 2021-2022Approved the District Mileage Rate FY22Approved Consent AgendaPersonnel ReportThe Board approved the following personnel changes for the district. HiredMelissa Lazaro Sanchez, Teacher Assistant Substitute, Hutcherson Center, effective August 8, 2021Luz Gomez, Title I Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearAngelica Mendoza, Title I Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearTeighlor Henderson, Building Para Substitute, Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearMonica Yoder, Educational Aide, Graber Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearAmber Kerns, Educational Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearAnette Roberson, Hutchinson High School Daycare Director, Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearMaria Chinchilla, Educational Aide, Lincoln Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearArie Roper, SLP Para, Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearResignationsMyroslava Clobes, CCS Para, Wiley Elementary, effective May 26, 2021Stephanie Hogan, Food Service Secretary, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school yearMartin Vieyra, Educational Aide, Graber Elementary, effective end of 2020-2021 school yearPosition ChangesNicole Stowell, Substitute Teacher Assistant at Hutcherson Center, to Teacher Assistant at Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearRachel Clark, Para Sub for District, to CSS Para at Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearKaren Voss, Covid Ed Aid at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Para at Hutchinson High School, effective at start of 2021-2022 school yearBrooke Klaasen, Covid Ed Aid at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Para at Hutchinson High School, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearThomas Birdeno, Covid Ed Aid at Hutchinson High School, to Resource Para at HMS-8, start of 2021-2022 school yearAustin Soudiray, HI RR Para at Wiley Elementary, to HI RR Para at HMS-7, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearKarla Beltz, CSS Para at Hutchinson High School, to CSS Para at HMS-7, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearBri Steadman, BSS Para at McCandless Elementary, to HI RR Para at Wiley Elementary, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearKay Towle, SLP Para at Morgan Elementary and Magnet at Allen, to SLP Para at Hutcherson Center, start of 2021-2022 school yearSheila Gremillion, Resource Room Para at McCandless Elementary, to Head Start Teacher at Hutcherson Center, effective start of 2021-2022 school yearThe next scheduled Board of Education meeting is Monday, July 26, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.