HAVEN, Kan.— The Haven USD 312 School District will once again offer 3 and 4-year-old preschool classes for the 2021-22 school year. The preschool is located at 202 East 5th in Haven.&nbsp;

The class is free to any child who will be 3 or 4-years-old on or before August 31 of this year.&nbsp;

Free busing will be available for the 4-year-old class for children outside of the city of Haven. The service will also bus to local daycares if needed.

Applications are available at the preschool during the school year and at the district offices during the summer months. Applications can also be found at <a href="https://www.havenschools.com/">havenschools.com</a>.

If you would like more information you can call the school district offices at 620-465-3445 ext. 1102.

<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>
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 </figure>HAVEN, Kan.— The Haven USD 312 School District will once again offer 3 and 4-year-old preschool classes for the 2021-22 school year. The preschool is located at 202 East 5th in Haven.&nbsp;The class is free to any child who will be 3 or 4-years-old on or before August 31 of this year.&nbsp;Free busing will be available for the 4-year-old class for children outside of the city of Haven. The service will also bus to local daycares if needed.Applications are available at the preschool during the school year and at the district offices during the summer months. Applications can also be found at <a href="https://www.havenschools.com/">havenschools.com</a>.If you would like more information you can call the school district offices at 620-465-3445 ext. 1102.<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.

Applications for Haven preschool now available


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The school gating criteria remain in the green for next week. According to the Reno County dashboard, the 14-day rolling average positive test rate as of March 14 is 3.5%, with a 14-day new case total of 23.

The overall case count in Reno County is at 66. Out of 7,735 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,532 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. Only the workplace cluster type has any remaining cases and there are just three there.

Three Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19. There have been 367 hospitalizations total and 103 ICU admissions. 137 Reno County residents deaths are attributed to the pandemic.

Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson.

The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The school gating criteria remain in the green for next week. According to the Reno County dashboard, the 14-day rolling average positive test rate as of March 14 is 3.5%, with a 14-day new case total of 23.The overall case count in Reno County is at 66. Out of 7,735 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,532 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. Only the workplace cluster type has any remaining cases and there are just three there.Three Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19. There have been 367 hospitalizations total and 103 ICU admissions. 137 Reno County residents deaths are attributed to the pandemic.Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson.The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>.

Schools remain in the green for next week, case count at 66 as of Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran will be in Hutchinson on Friday. Moran will take time to tour Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

Moran will be on-hand to learn more about the antibody infusion treatment process used by the hospital to treat COVID-19 patients. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses.

Moran is expected to meet with hospital staff and officials for about 45 minutes.

<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran will be in Hutchinson on Friday. Moran will take time to tour Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.Moran will be on-hand to learn more about the antibody infusion treatment process used by the hospital to treat COVID-19 patients. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses.Moran is expected to meet with hospital staff and officials for about 45 minutes.<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sen. Moran to tour HRMC

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A hearing is set for Friday afternoon for a Reno County man who wants to withdraw his plea to four counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

Patrick White entered pleas to the four counts as part of a plea agreement. A fifth count was dismissed. Now White wants to withdraw that plea, citing he was not advised that his conviction meant a lifetime registration as an offender during plea negotiations.

White was arrested after deputies with the Reno County Sheriff's Department issued a search warrant on his home and cell phone.&nbsp;

The warrant stemmed from the allegations from a separate law enforcement agency that was made aware of White’s ongoing suspicious activity. The crimes are said to have occurred between October of 2018 and February of 2020.&nbsp;

<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616098486580.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A hearing is set for Friday afternoon for a Reno County man who wants to withdraw his plea to four counts of sexual exploitation of a child.Patrick White entered pleas to the four counts as part of a plea agreement. A fifth count was dismissed. Now White wants to withdraw that plea, citing he was not advised that his conviction meant a lifetime registration as an offender during plea negotiations.White was arrested after deputies with the Reno County Sheriff's Department issued a search warrant on his home and cell phone.&nbsp;The warrant stemmed from the allegations from a separate law enforcement agency that was made aware of White’s ongoing suspicious activity. The crimes are said to have occurred between October of 2018 and February of 2020.&nbsp;<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

White back in court on motion to withdraw plea

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A DECA-inspired project today and Friday has groups of Wiley Elementary School fifth graders working on real-world problems facing local businesses and nonprofits.

The students at Wiley took scenarios or problems from 20 local businesses and nonprofits and are working on the scenarios over the next two days, brainstorming solutions for their subject areas. Students have been placed on teams for interest areas — finance, trade, community relations, arts and recreation, medical/PR and marketing.

On Friday afternoon, students will pick their strongest solutions and present those to a panel of local businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The project-based learning experience provides students with ample opportunities to write, collaborate as a team and research. Teachers for the students are Carly Torres and Shakera Ross. Instructional support teacher Kristi Link and Jessica Self were also part of pulling the entire project together.

Link got the inspiration for the learning opportunity from watching her daughters who participated in DECA at Hutchinson High School.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A DECA-inspired project today and Friday has groups of Wiley Elementary School fifth graders working on real-world problems facing local businesses and nonprofits.The students at Wiley took scenarios or problems from 20 local businesses and nonprofits and are working on the scenarios over the next two days, brainstorming solutions for their subject areas. Students have been placed on teams for interest areas — finance, trade, community relations, arts and recreation, medical/PR and marketing.On Friday afternoon, students will pick their strongest solutions and present those to a panel of local businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;The project-based learning experience provides students with ample opportunities to write, collaborate as a team and research. Teachers for the students are Carly Torres and Shakera Ross. Instructional support teacher Kristi Link and Jessica Self were also part of pulling the entire project together.Link got the inspiration for the learning opportunity from watching her daughters who participated in DECA at Hutchinson High School.<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wiley students work on business solutions


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson has hired its permanent Human Relations Officer.

"There was an extended effort that involved numerous community stakeholders, city staff, elected officials," said City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "Ultimately, came up with David Sotelo, who had been performing in the interim role, doing a fine job of it. We're pleased to announce that he will be the full-time HRO for the City of Hutch."

The Human Relations Officer's position has changed considerably in recent years.

"That position now has a lot more to do with community outreach than in might have had in the past in a part-time capacity," Cantrell said. "The majority of the effort of the position will involve community outreach, but certainly there will be a component of that position that investigates complaints community-wide."

The search committee really liked Sotelo's background and experience.

"They valued his knowledge of the community and the fact that he was previously involved with the Human Relations Commission and city staff in various departments. I believe that he had some additional outside organization involvement here in the community, as well."

The salary for the position will be $55,990 and will be subject to future increases based on completion of the required college degree. Sotelo will start full-time April 12.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson has hired its permanent Human Relations Officer."There was an extended effort that involved numerous community stakeholders, city staff, elected officials," said City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "Ultimately, came up with David Sotelo, who had been performing in the interim role, doing a fine job of it. We're pleased to announce that he will be the full-time HRO for the City of Hutch."The Human Relations Officer's position has changed considerably in recent years."That position now has a lot more to do with community outreach than in might have had in the past in a part-time capacity," Cantrell said. "The majority of the effort of the position will involve community outreach, but certainly there will be a component of that position that investigates complaints community-wide."The search committee really liked Sotelo's background and experience."They valued his knowledge of the community and the fact that he was previously involved with the Human Relations Commission and city staff in various departments. I believe that he had some additional outside organization involvement here in the community, as well."The salary for the position will be $55,990 and will be subject to future increases based on completion of the required college degree. Sotelo will start full-time April 12.

Sotelo takes on full-time Human Relations Officer position

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair is bringing back their Fair Food and Tunes event for the spring. The event was originally held in the fall as a small fill in for the canceled State Fair. The spring version will take place Saturday, April 10 starting at 11 a.m.

The event will feature some of your favorite fair food along with tunes throughout the day and evening at the Lake Talbott stage.

Some of the food available includes brats, pronto pups, funnel cakes, and adult beverages.

Admission is free with parking inside the fairgrounds for $5. If you'd like to do something else related to the fair, the giant slide will be available for $2 per slide or $7 for four runs.

<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/2020/8/1596458270492.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair is bringing back their Fair Food and Tunes event for the spring. The event was originally held in the fall as a small fill in for the canceled State Fair. The spring version will take place Saturday, April 10 starting at 11 a.m.The event will feature some of your favorite fair food along with tunes throughout the day and evening at the Lake Talbott stage.Some of the food available includes brats, pronto pups, funnel cakes, and adult beverages.Admission is free with parking inside the fairgrounds for $5. If you'd like to do something else related to the fair, the giant slide will be available for $2 per slide or $7 for four runs.<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;

Fair Food and Tunes coming back to fairgrounds

NICKERSON, Kan. — Those wanting to fill out a survey to express what they want in the next Superintendent for Nickerson USD 309 have until Sunday to complete that survey.

The district is seeking community input on desired characteristics of the new superintendent. The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete and can be accessed at the following link: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/309?fbclid=IwAR0-oLVwmjVtJViFqkGWYSqCv1lAEFjtaPy7EUFnAUTkL4c1eWTC-AZdH0c">surveymonkey.com/r/309</a>. The Kansas Association of School Boards will make the findings of that survey known during a Board meeting March 31.

The application process is now open and according to the KASB applications will be taken until April 1. Once that’s completed the screening of applicants will start April 7. The district hopes to have a contract offered to their person of choice by the end of April.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — Those wanting to fill out a survey to express what they want in the next Superintendent for Nickerson USD 309 have until Sunday to complete that survey.The district is seeking community input on desired characteristics of the new superintendent. The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete and can be accessed at the following link: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/309?fbclid=IwAR0-oLVwmjVtJViFqkGWYSqCv1lAEFjtaPy7EUFnAUTkL4c1eWTC-AZdH0c">surveymonkey.com/r/309</a>. The Kansas Association of School Boards will make the findings of that survey known during a Board meeting March 31.The application process is now open and according to the KASB applications will be taken until April 1. Once that’s completed the screening of applicants will start April 7. The district hopes to have a contract offered to their person of choice by the end of April.<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;

Nickerson survey ends Sunday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Regional COO Wes Hoyt notes that even though the hospital is eligible for some reimbursement for COVID expenses, they haven't been able to apply it yet.

"We qualified, like most other health care facilities, for a lot of the CARES Act funding," Hoyt said. "We received it. The dilemma we're facing right now, is a lot of that, we can't really realize at this stage because some of the rules haven't been finished. We have a tremendous opportunity to add to our bottom line and overcome some of the expenses we had."

The government hasn't opened up the portal for the hospital to apply and qualify for use of those funds.

"There's a tremendous gray area on, yes, this is COVID related, no this isn't COVID related," Hoyt said. "Ultimately, at the end of the day, you're going to have to submit your receipts, per se and have them say, yes, that was legitimate. Without any definitive guidance, you're kind of in a holding pattern."

Hoyt said the money is sitting in the checking account until they know what they can use it for.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Regional COO Wes Hoyt notes that even though the hospital is eligible for some reimbursement for COVID expenses, they haven't been able to apply it yet."We qualified, like most other health care facilities, for a lot of the CARES Act funding," Hoyt said. "We received it. The dilemma we're facing right now, is a lot of that, we can't really realize at this stage because some of the rules haven't been finished. We have a tremendous opportunity to add to our bottom line and overcome some of the expenses we had."The government hasn't opened up the portal for the hospital to apply and qualify for use of those funds."There's a tremendous gray area on, yes, this is COVID related, no this isn't COVID related," Hoyt said. "Ultimately, at the end of the day, you're going to have to submit your receipts, per se and have them say, yes, that was legitimate. Without any definitive guidance, you're kind of in a holding pattern."Hoyt said the money is sitting in the checking account until they know what they can use it for.

Hoyt: Hospital still holding on to COVID reimbursement for now


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt joined his colleagues in expressing their thoughts that the election portions of H.R. 1 are not fair to states.

"It tries to lock in a lot of the really extraordinary and we think sometimes unjustified measures that were adopted by states around the country during the election as a result of COVID-19," Schmidt said. "At least, that was the excuse that was often used."

Schmidt sees it as a constitutional question.

"The U.S. Constitution contemplates that states, not the federal government, but states, have the lead in determining the manner in which federal elections are conducted in that state," Schmidt said. "That's particularly true in Presidential elections. There are two different clauses in the U.S. Constitution. One refers to states and Congress. The other refers only to states."

Anything that federalizes elections draws skepticism from his office.

"There are a number of particulars in H.R. 1 that are really concerning from a Kansas standpoint," Schmidt said. "For example, Kansas law for many years has required that when you show up at the polls, you have to show your identity, usually your driver's license. Kansas law also requires similar proof when you vote by mail."

Schmidt joined a coalition with 20 other state attorneys general in a letter to U.S. Senate and U.S. House leaders objecting to the legislation.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt joined his colleagues in expressing their thoughts that the election portions of H.R. 1 are not fair to states."It tries to lock in a lot of the really extraordinary and we think sometimes unjustified measures that were adopted by states around the country during the election as a result of COVID-19," Schmidt said. "At least, that was the excuse that was often used."Schmidt sees it as a constitutional question."The U.S. Constitution contemplates that states, not the federal government, but states, have the lead in determining the manner in which federal elections are conducted in that state," Schmidt said. "That's particularly true in Presidential elections. There are two different clauses in the U.S. Constitution. One refers to states and Congress. The other refers only to states."Anything that federalizes elections draws skepticism from his office."There are a number of particulars in H.R. 1 that are really concerning from a Kansas standpoint," Schmidt said. "For example, Kansas law for many years has required that when you show up at the polls, you have to show your identity, usually your driver's license. Kansas law also requires similar proof when you vote by mail."Schmidt joined a coalition with 20 other state attorneys general in a letter to U.S. Senate and U.S. House leaders objecting to the legislation.

Kansas AG Derek Schmidt: H.R. 1 not fair to states


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks notes that the study of the district that was approved earlier in the school year is going forward.

"RSP and Associates, they toured the district last month and spent an entire day walking around," Folks said. "There was just a couple buildings they did not have time to get to. They have been asking for all kinds of information, from principals, from Randy Norwood, our director of operations and myself. We've done all kinds of enrollment sharing. They plan on being back in the district on March 31. They will finish their tours."

The consultants will also meet with the superintendent's advisory committee.

"I call it a comprehensive facilities study," Folks said. "They're going to look at enrollment trends. They're going to look at grade level configuration. They're going to look at efficiencies, building capacities, all of those kinds of things to make sure that we have a solid plan for years to come."

The process is going to take some time. The intent is to have information to the Board of Education by early 2022.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks notes that the study of the district that was approved earlier in the school year is going forward."RSP and Associates, they toured the district last month and spent an entire day walking around," Folks said. "There was just a couple buildings they did not have time to get to. They have been asking for all kinds of information, from principals, from Randy Norwood, our director of operations and myself. We've done all kinds of enrollment sharing. They plan on being back in the district on March 31. They will finish their tours."The consultants will also meet with the superintendent's advisory committee."I call it a comprehensive facilities study," Folks said. "They're going to look at enrollment trends. They're going to look at grade level configuration. They're going to look at efficiencies, building capacities, all of those kinds of things to make sure that we have a solid plan for years to come."The process is going to take some time. The intent is to have information to the Board of Education by early 2022.

Folks: Facilities study continues

County officials still don't know very far in advance how much vaccine they are getting, plus more from Hutch Post.

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 </figure>County officials still don't know very far in advance how much vaccine they are getting, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="March 18, 2021 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d6zrf-fe2352-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

March 18, 2021 Morning News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The next TEFAP commodity distribution in Hutchinson will be this Sunday, March 21, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. As always, the commodity pickup will be at the former Dillon Living Center, 1901 E. 23rd. 

The program is for low-income people of all ages. TEFAP commodities are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no need to pre-register. They ask that you wear your masks when stopping for pickup. You will not be allowed to pick up boxes for anyone other than yourself. 

They also stress to motorists to form a single line with your vehicles and make sure not to block driveways and intersections. The event usually produces long lines of vehicles each month.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The next TEFAP commodity distribution in Hutchinson will be this Sunday, March 21, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. As always, the commodity pickup will be at the former Dillon Living Center, 1901 E. 23rd. The program is for low-income people of all ages. TEFAP commodities are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no need to pre-register. They ask that you wear your masks when stopping for pickup. You will not be allowed to pick up boxes for anyone other than yourself. They also stress to motorists to form a single line with your vehicles and make sure not to block driveways and intersections. The event usually produces long lines of vehicles each month.<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

TEFAP pickup is Sunday in Hutchinson

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council gave approval to an ordinance that will move regular meetings up by one hour.

Action on the matter came during Monday’s agenda session. Meetings will now begin at 6 p.m. instead of 7 p.m. The motion passed 5-0.

Also Monday, the council approved a revised ordinance regarding golf carts and ATVs in the city. The revision would limit tagging golf carts and ATVs to city residents only. The city allows carts and ATVs to be tagged and driven on city streets if properly equipped to do so.

And the council approved the purchase of two new used vehicles for the department and heard the reports of the council, mayor, department heads and city administrator.

<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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616010977961.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council gave approval to an ordinance that will move regular meetings up by one hour.Action on the matter came during Monday’s agenda session. Meetings will now begin at 6 p.m. instead of 7 p.m. The motion passed 5-0.Also Monday, the council approved a revised ordinance regarding golf carts and ATVs in the city. The revision would limit tagging golf carts and ATVs to city residents only. The city allows carts and ATVs to be tagged and driven on city streets if properly equipped to do so.And the council approved the purchase of two new used vehicles for the department and heard the reports of the council, mayor, department heads and city administrator.<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.&nbsp;

South Hutchinson City Council meetings to start at 6 pm

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced a second round of hiring for its new manufacturing facility that is coming to Hutchinson this summer. Superior asks that you upload your resume at<a href="https://superiorboiler.com/career-opportunities/?fbclid=IwAR16CkZg8JWNUR5FclicfZ4m3Fsh0CnJXrTF3Ra7skElH6I6ju_HU3MDa0c"> superiorboiler.com/career-opportunities/</a>&nbsp;or stop by the office at 3524 E. 4th Ave. If you want to do it by email, you can contact the HR Manager at <a href="mailto:dporter@superiorboiler.com">dporter@superiorboiler.com</a>.

Superior is preparing to move its Richmond, Virginia, plant to Hutchinson. The new facility will be located in the old Mega Manufacturing building just west of the current Superior facility. The company is looking for about 30 workers for the new plant.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605801363438.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced a second round of hiring for its new manufacturing facility that is coming to Hutchinson this summer. Superior asks that you upload your resume at<a href="https://superiorboiler.com/career-opportunities/?fbclid=IwAR16CkZg8JWNUR5FclicfZ4m3Fsh0CnJXrTF3Ra7skElH6I6ju_HU3MDa0c"> superiorboiler.com/career-opportunities/</a>&nbsp;or stop by the office at 3524 E. 4th Ave. If you want to do it by email, you can contact the HR Manager at <a href="mailto:dporter@superiorboiler.com">dporter@superiorboiler.com</a>.Superior is preparing to move its Richmond, Virginia, plant to Hutchinson. The new facility will be located in the old Mega Manufacturing building just west of the current Superior facility. The company is looking for about 30 workers for the new plant.<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.&nbsp;

Another round of hiring underway for new Superior plant

HAVEN, Kan. — It looks like the city of Haven will be without a city pool again this summer. In a statement released by the city from Mayor Adam Wright, the continued legal battle involving repairs of the pool two years ago will likely keep the pool closed for the foreseeable future.

"Many citizens continue to inquire as to the status of the renovations and improvements to the City Pool. At the current time, the city is engaged in litigation in Reno County district court related to the City Pool project and all parties to the litigation are working diligently to find resolutions to the dispute."

"Multiple engineering firms and contractors are aware of the concerns of the city and working on remedies to resolve the concerns. There is no question that the complicated nature of lawsuits and construction cause delay well beyond what the parties would hope for fixing the pool. At this time, there is little hope that the pool will be operational for any portion of the 2021 season, but everyone involved is trying to seek out creative solutions to ensure that the pool is operational for our citizens as soon as possible.”

Wright says he will continue to update the public on the status of the pool.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615999172796.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — It looks like the city of Haven will be without a city pool again this summer. In a statement released by the city from Mayor Adam Wright, the continued legal battle involving repairs of the pool two years ago will likely keep the pool closed for the foreseeable future.Wright issued the statement below:"Many citizens continue to inquire as to the status of the renovations and improvements to the City Pool. At the current time, the city is engaged in litigation in Reno County district court related to the City Pool project and all parties to the litigation are working diligently to find resolutions to the dispute.""Multiple engineering firms and contractors are aware of the concerns of the city and working on remedies to resolve the concerns. There is no question that the complicated nature of lawsuits and construction cause delay well beyond what the parties would hope for fixing the pool. At this time, there is little hope that the pool will be operational for any portion of the 2021 season, but everyone involved is trying to seek out creative solutions to ensure that the pool is operational for our citizens as soon as possible.”Wright says he will continue to update the public on the status of the pool.<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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven pool will likely remain closed this summer

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that a section of Baker Street between 16th and 17th Avenue will be closed starting on Thursday at 7:30 a.m.

Work crews will be doing street repairs in that area. While the street will be closed to through traffic there will be local access for residents.

The work is expected to last two weeks. If you need any information on this or any other street project contact public works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601476427799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that a section of Baker Street between 16th and 17th Avenue will be closed starting on Thursday at 7:30 a.m.Work crews will be doing street repairs in that area. While the street will be closed to through traffic there will be local access for residents.The work is expected to last two weeks. If you need any information on this or any other street project contact public works at 620-694-1900.<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;

Portion of Baker Street closed starting Thursday

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council agreed Monday to set a workshop to discuss the future of the $0.01 sales tax which has been in place for almost ten years. No date was set.

The sales tax is set to go off the books in 2022. In order to keep the tax in place, it will need to be approved by a public vote in the November election. If that is to happen, a decision on whether to put the tax up for a vote again or let it sunset must come by June.

The tax was put in place in 2012 to help fund the community building. Since then, it has been used for improvements to the city’s two parks and sewer line repairs. Some discussion has come up as to whether the tax could be used to replace the city’s weather warning siren. The city has been asking for public input on the storm siren which has not operated for more than a year.&nbsp;

Mayor Peggy Ruebke said she had hoped those who have expressed concern over the siren would have attended Monday’s meeting. She noted that the council has many ways the public can contact them and hopes they’ll do so when it comes to the siren and the sales tax.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council agreed Monday to set a workshop to discuss the future of the $0.01 sales tax which has been in place for almost ten years. No date was set.The sales tax is set to go off the books in 2022. In order to keep the tax in place, it will need to be approved by a public vote in the November election. If that is to happen, a decision on whether to put the tax up for a vote again or let it sunset must come by June.The tax was put in place in 2012 to help fund the community building. Since then, it has been used for improvements to the city’s two parks and sewer line repairs. Some discussion has come up as to whether the tax could be used to replace the city’s weather warning siren. The city has been asking for public input on the storm siren which has not operated for more than a year.&nbsp;Mayor Peggy Ruebke said she had hoped those who have expressed concern over the siren would have attended Monday’s meeting. She noted that the council has many ways the public can contact them and hopes they’ll do so when it comes to the siren and the sales tax.

Nickerson City Council discusses sales tax


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have its organizational meetings going forward at its first meeting in January.

"We're just having the terms of the council match the schedule that the state requires," said City Attorney Paul Brown. "Currently, we have a gap."

The statute when it was originally enacted in 2015, asked for terms to start on the second Monday in January, but Hutchinson's City Council doesn't meet then. In 2019, they gave cities more options.

"They gave some flexibility to have the terms start anywhere from December 1 to the second Monday in January." Brown said. 

The Council discussed the options and because of the holidays, they wanted to stay away from December.

"Then we can swear in the Mayor and Vice Mayor as we normally do," Brown said. "It will change the date of the annual organization meeting. That's all we're doing is trying to eliminate the gap. I would have done that earlier, but we were still transitioning through those extended terms."

The council approved the change to the charter ordinance unanimously.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615991251955.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have its organizational meetings going forward at its first meeting in January."We're just having the terms of the council match the schedule that the state requires," said City Attorney Paul Brown. "Currently, we have a gap."The statute when it was originally enacted in 2015, asked for terms to start on the second Monday in January, but Hutchinson's City Council doesn't meet then. In 2019, they gave cities more options."They gave some flexibility to have the terms start anywhere from December 1 to the second Monday in January." Brown said. The Council discussed the options and because of the holidays, they wanted to stay away from December."Then we can swear in the Mayor and Vice Mayor as we normally do," Brown said. "It will change the date of the annual organization meeting. That's all we're doing is trying to eliminate the gap. I would have done that earlier, but we were still transitioning through those extended terms."The council approved the change to the charter ordinance unanimously.

City Council sets organizational meetings for first January meeting going forward


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks said the district is going to bring a new plan to finish out the school year before the Board of Education next month.

"First of all, we need to have the board rescind in April the original Salthawk Restart," Folks said. "We've been working on updating with what we're going to call Salthawk Next. That would align with what the Kansas State Board of Education has come out with called Navigating Next. Our purpose is to use this document as a guide to finish the school year."

The proposal will go before the board April 12.

"We have some local control things," Folks said. "I know the county commissioners have been talking. I've sent communication to them regarding the mask mandate. Our plan is to keep wearing masks throughout the remainder of the school year at this point. Of course, the board will have final say on that."

The intent is also to continue temperature checks through the end of the school year, as well.

<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/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks said the district is going to bring a new plan to finish out the school year before the Board of Education next month."First of all, we need to have the board rescind in April the original Salthawk Restart," Folks said. "We've been working on updating with what we're going to call Salthawk Next. That would align with what the Kansas State Board of Education has come out with called Navigating Next. Our purpose is to use this document as a guide to finish the school year."The proposal will go before the board April 12."We have some local control things," Folks said. "I know the county commissioners have been talking. I've sent communication to them regarding the mask mandate. Our plan is to keep wearing masks throughout the remainder of the school year at this point. Of course, the board will have final say on that."The intent is also to continue temperature checks through the end of the school year, as well.
<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.

New plan to finish out school year to go before USD 308 board in April


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Even though Reno County has been doing a good job of getting vaccine distributed thus far, they still aren't finding out much ahead of time how much vaccine they are getting week to week.

"We learn about things usually the week before, or a couple days before and that's the difficulty in planning," said Karla Nichols with the Reno County Health Department. "We've only been getting the Moderna vaccine at this point and so that's what we're using. When we get the Moderna, we usually get like 1200 doses."

Those with pre-existing conditions will not have to provide proof at this point.

"We really don't want barriers," said Karen Hammersmith with the Health Department. "Then you're trying to get into different ways of identifying people that way. You just have to self-identify that you have some of those pre-existing conditions, you know, hypertension, diabetes, asthma. All of those things can turn into a problem."

There is no word at this point if the Reno County Health Department will get any of the Johnson and Johnson single-dose vaccine, right now they are planning based just on the Moderna numbers they have been getting.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Even though Reno County has been doing a good job of getting vaccine distributed thus far, they still aren't finding out much ahead of time how much vaccine they are getting week to week."We learn about things usually the week before, or a couple days before and that's the difficulty in planning," said Karla Nichols with the Reno County Health Department. "We've only been getting the Moderna vaccine at this point and so that's what we're using. When we get the Moderna, we usually get like 1200 doses."Those with pre-existing conditions will not have to provide proof at this point."We really don't want barriers," said Karen Hammersmith with the Health Department. "Then you're trying to get into different ways of identifying people that way. You just have to self-identify that you have some of those pre-existing conditions, you know, hypertension, diabetes, asthma. All of those things can turn into a problem."There is no word at this point if the Reno County Health Department will get any of the Johnson and Johnson single-dose vaccine, right now they are planning based just on the Moderna numbers they have been getting.

Vaccine amounts still not known very far in advance

HUTCHINSON – Hutchinson Community College will be hosting its Career Connections Job Fair Thursday, April 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. 

Seventy-six area employers have registered to attend seeking employees for full-time, part-time and internship opportunities. A list of the employers currently registered is available at <a href="https://www.collegecentral.com/CCNEngine/LiveEvents/LiveEvents.cfm?EventID=5384">www.hutchcc.edu/careerfair</a>. The fair is free and open to the public.

To help job-seekers prepare, many free resources are available at CareerZone - <a href="https://www.collegecentral.com/hutchcc/">www.collegecentral.com/hutchcc</a>. This resource is available not only to HutchCC students but to all community members as well. Current HutchCC students attending the fair who complete a survey are eligible to win an Apple iPad, Apple Airpods or a gift certificate to the campus store.

Attendees will be expected to wear masks and practice social distancing while within the Sports Arena.

The Job Fair is made possible through support from these sponsors: Hutchinson Community College, Radio Kansas, Greater Hutch, the Substance Abuse Center of Kansas, The Bradbury Group, FEMCO, Tyson, Conklin Cars and First National Bank of Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON – Hutchinson Community College will be hosting its Career Connections Job Fair Thursday, April 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. Seventy-six area employers have registered to attend seeking employees for full-time, part-time and internship opportunities. A list of the employers currently registered is available at <a href="https://www.collegecentral.com/CCNEngine/LiveEvents/LiveEvents.cfm?EventID=5384">www.hutchcc.edu/careerfair</a>. The fair is free and open to the public.To help job-seekers prepare, many free resources are available at CareerZone - <a href="https://www.collegecentral.com/hutchcc/">www.collegecentral.com/hutchcc</a>. This resource is available not only to HutchCC students but to all community members as well. Current HutchCC students attending the fair who complete a survey are eligible to win an Apple iPad, Apple Airpods or a gift certificate to the campus store.Attendees will be expected to wear masks and practice social distancing while within the Sports Arena.The Job Fair is made possible through support from these sponsors: Hutchinson Community College, Radio Kansas, Greater Hutch, the Substance Abuse Center of Kansas, The Bradbury Group, FEMCO, Tyson, Conklin Cars and First National Bank of Hutchinson.

Career Fair at HutchCC April 1


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The City of Hutchinson intends to try again to get federal help with a project to deal with issues on the Woodie Seat Freeway. The subject was initially brought up by City Manager Jeff Cantrell.

"It's probably appropriate that we would have a discussion to see if the governing body would support another application for that project," Cantrell said. "If we decided not to do that, because I think we might have a pretty good feel for what the community would and wouldn't support, we would then have to fund it some other way. It would certainly cost more for the city to do it in an alternate fashion."

There is no guarantee the city will get the grant. They've already lost out on it multiple times. Council member Jon Daveline strongly believes the city needs the federal match to get the project done.

"I suspect if you would do a public opinion on what our priority arterial projects would be, I believe the Woodie Seat Freeway would be at the top of that list," Daveline said. "It's a main arterial gateway corridor into our community. It is in bad disrepair and it's time that we put our attention to it. As I have reviewed over the years the various federal programs, I can't think of a better opportunity to leverage federal tax dollars for this multi-million dollar project. Our budgets are tight enough anyway and we really, really, really need to take advantage of this next opportunity to resubmit our application."

The people in the Southwest Bricktown neighborhood don't want roundabouts or to have Avenue B closed, but just repairing the bridges without the federal dollars would cost the city millions of dollars more, but the studies haven't been done to figure out exactly how much.

"I have just a really high-level estimate of $5 to $7 million," said Jeff Peterson Director of Engineering. "We'd have to get some engineering done, a study on the existing bridges to see if they're going to be replacement or if they're going to be repairs. Avenue B is probably the one that most needs work right now, but Avenue C and Avenue A bridges are also the same vintage, like 1959 is when they were built."

Council member Sara Bagwell would like to see if they can get the grant and if so, if the city can commit to helping the neighborhood work with the changes that would come.

"Maybe there's some other things that that community needs," Bagwell said. "We can talk about all of it. What our needs are for the roundabout, what their needs are for their community and see if we can't have some sort of compromise between the two."

The concern is that if opposition to the project from the neighborhood is vocal enough, then those who would be making the federal decisions would choose to pass on the project and award the money to someone else and then the city might have to raise taxes to make up the difference, because the bridges are not going to last much longer. 

At this point, the council has voted to approve initial work on the grant application, but the issue will also be on the next meeting's agenda in April so the public can come weigh in with their thoughts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585858972025.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The City of Hutchinson intends to try again to get federal help with a project to deal with issues on the Woodie Seat Freeway. The subject was initially brought up by City Manager Jeff Cantrell."It's probably appropriate that we would have a discussion to see if the governing body would support another application for that project," Cantrell said. "If we decided not to do that, because I think we might have a pretty good feel for what the community would and wouldn't support, we would then have to fund it some other way. It would certainly cost more for the city to do it in an alternate fashion."There is no guarantee the city will get the grant. They've already lost out on it multiple times. Council member Jon Daveline strongly believes the city needs the federal match to get the project done."I suspect if you would do a public opinion on what our priority arterial projects would be, I believe the Woodie Seat Freeway would be at the top of that list," Daveline said. "It's a main arterial gateway corridor into our community. It is in bad disrepair and it's time that we put our attention to it. As I have reviewed over the years the various federal programs, I can't think of a better opportunity to leverage federal tax dollars for this multi-million dollar project. Our budgets are tight enough anyway and we really, really, really need to take advantage of this next opportunity to resubmit our application."The people in the Southwest Bricktown neighborhood don't want roundabouts or to have Avenue B closed, but just repairing the bridges without the federal dollars would cost the city millions of dollars more, but the studies haven't been done to figure out exactly how much."I have just a really high-level estimate of $5 to $7 million," said Jeff Peterson Director of Engineering. "We'd have to get some engineering done, a study on the existing bridges to see if they're going to be replacement or if they're going to be repairs. Avenue B is probably the one that most needs work right now, but Avenue C and Avenue A bridges are also the same vintage, like 1959 is when they were built."Council member Sara Bagwell would like to see if they can get the grant and if so, if the city can commit to helping the neighborhood work with the changes that would come."Maybe there's some other things that that community needs," Bagwell said. "We can talk about all of it. What our needs are for the roundabout, what their needs are for their community and see if we can't have some sort of compromise between the two."The concern is that if opposition to the project from the neighborhood is vocal enough, then those who would be making the federal decisions would choose to pass on the project and award the money to someone else and then the city might have to raise taxes to make up the difference, because the bridges are not going to last much longer. At this point, the council has voted to approve initial work on the grant application, but the issue will also be on the next meeting's agenda in April so the public can come weigh in with their thoughts.

Hutchinson to try again on Woodie Seat project

Information from Julia Westfahl with SCKEDD

<a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/emergency-rental-assistance/">The Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance program</a> is live.

KERA shall provide financial assistance to eligible households, including the payment of:

• Residential rent and rental arrears from April 1, 2020 to current, up to 12 months or 15 months if necessary to ensure the household’s housing stability.

• Up to three months of prospective rent at a time, even if the household does not have rental arrears.

• Past due residential utility and home energy (electric, gas, water, sewer, and trash service) and internet costs incurred since April 1, 2020.

Limitations on Prospective (Future) Rent Payments:

Eligible households may request prospective rental assistance; however, tenants cannot apply for more than three future months in any one application. 

• Subject to availability of remaining funds;

• Contingent upon the household not exceeding the total months of assistance allowed under the program; and

• Approved only after all of the household’s rental arrears have been paid, if applicable.

If future assistance is needed applicant must reapply. 

Tenant households must meet all five of the following criteria to qualify:

1. COVID-19 Hardship. One or more household member(s) has either:

a. Written and signed applicant attestation that they qualified for unemployment, or

b. Written and signed applicant attestation that they experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other direct or indirect financial hardship due to the pandemic.

2. Risk of homelessness or housing instability. One or more household members can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, including at least one of the following documents dated anytime since April 1, 2020:

3. Income Eligibility. The household income may not exceed 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the area in which the household is located as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Income eligibility will be determined using one of the following methods:

a. 2020 Federal Income Tax Return. Adjusted gross income as reported on the household’s IRS Form 1040 individual income tax return. This is the preferred method and will result in expedited

b. 2020 Annual Income. If the household hasn’t submitted a 2020 federal income tax return, the household may provide documentation to determine the household’s 2020 adjusted gross income. The following source documents will be required to determine total adjusted gross income, as applicable:

ii. IRS Form 1099 interest statement, unemployment compensation statement, and/or documentation of Social Security, annuities, insurance, retirement, pension, disability, or death benefits;

iii. Documentation of the net income from the operation of a business or profession, including direct payments for services for self-employed individuals;

iv. Documentation of public assistance cash benefits (TANF);

v. Documentation of child support and/or alimony payments.

c. Documentation of at least two consecutive months of income, including, as applicable:

i. Wages: If employed, paystubs for the prior four weeks or two months, if paid monthly. Pay stubs should be the most recent and just prior to the date for which the household is seeking

assistance. If a household has inconsistent income, additional paystubs may be required. If the applicant is unable to provide pay stubs, employer verification will be required.

Verification form or letter should be on the employer’s letterhead and should state the wage, number of hours worked, pay frequency, overtime, commissions, tips, bonuses, and any additional pay;

ii. Periodic payments: Award letters or documentation (such as bank statements) of Social Security, annuities, insurance, retirement, pension, disability, death, or other benefits;

iii. Form 1099 interest statement, unemployment compensation statement, Social Security, annuities, insurance policies, retirement funds, pensions, annuities, capital gain, disability or

death benefits and other similar types of periodic receipts;

iv. Documentation of the net income from the operation of a business or profession, including direct payments for services for self-employed individuals;

v. Bank statements covering at least two consecutive months prior to the submission of the application;

vi. Letter from employer indicating reduced pay;

vii. Documentation of public assistance cash benefits (TANF);

viii. Documentation of child support or alimony payments;

ix. Zero Income: If household is without income, a selfcertification of zero income will be required;

x. If paid in cash or place of employment is now closed, a selfcertification of income will be required.

Note: Households choosing the monthly income method “c”must complete a recertification of income every three months for the duration of assistance.

4. Household is renting. The household must be renting the residence for which they are requesting assistance and must have a written lease agreement or other suitable documentation. The residence must be the household's primary residence and must be in Kansas. The tenant must not have ownership in the property for which they are requesting rental assistance. Documentation could include one of the following (a or b):

a. Current lease or other suitable documentation including:

i. Signature of applicant and landlord or sublessor,

ii. Unit where the applicant resides, and

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604073199111.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Information from Julia Westfahl with SCKEDD<a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/emergency-rental-assistance/">The Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance program</a> is live.KERA shall provide financial assistance to eligible households, including the payment of:• Residential rent and rental arrears from April 1, 2020 to current, up to 12 months or 15 months if necessary to ensure the household’s housing stability.• Up to three months of prospective rent at a time, even if the household does not have rental arrears.• Past due residential utility and home energy (electric, gas, water, sewer, and trash service) and internet costs incurred since April 1, 2020.Limitations on Prospective (Future) Rent Payments:Eligible households may request prospective rental assistance; however, tenants cannot apply for more than three future months in any one application. Rental payments for future months are:• Subject to availability of remaining funds;• Contingent upon the household not exceeding the total months of assistance allowed under the program; and• Approved only after all of the household’s rental arrears have been paid, if applicable.If future assistance is needed applicant must reapply. Eligible Households:Tenant households must meet all five of the following criteria to qualify:1. COVID-19 Hardship. One or more household member(s) has either:a. Written and signed applicant attestation that they qualified for unemployment, orb. Written and signed applicant attestation that they experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other direct or indirect financial hardship due to the pandemic.2. Risk of homelessness or housing instability. One or more household members can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, including at least one of the following documents dated anytime since April 1, 2020:a. A past due utility bill, orb. A past due rent notice, orc. An eviction notice.3. Income Eligibility. The household income may not exceed 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the area in which the household is located as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Income eligibility will be determined using one of the following methods:a. 2020 Federal Income Tax Return. Adjusted gross income as reported on the household’s IRS Form 1040 individual income tax return. This is the preferred method and will result in expeditedprocessing time.b. 2020 Annual Income. If the household hasn’t submitted a 2020 federal income tax return, the household may provide documentation to determine the household’s 2020 adjusted gross income. The following source documents will be required to determine total adjusted gross income, as applicable:i. W-2 wage statement;ii. IRS Form 1099 interest statement, unemployment compensation statement, and/or documentation of Social Security, annuities, insurance, retirement, pension, disability, or death benefits;iii. Documentation of the net income from the operation of a business or profession, including direct payments for services for self-employed individuals;iv. Documentation of public assistance cash benefits (TANF);v. Documentation of child support and/or alimony payments.c. Documentation of at least two consecutive months of income, including, as applicable:i. Wages: If employed, paystubs for the prior four weeks or two months, if paid monthly. Pay stubs should be the most recent and just prior to the date for which the household is seekingassistance. If a household has inconsistent income, additional paystubs may be required. If the applicant is unable to provide pay stubs, employer verification will be required.Verification form or letter should be on the employer’s letterhead and should state the wage, number of hours worked, pay frequency, overtime, commissions, tips, bonuses, and any additional pay;ii. Periodic payments: Award letters or documentation (such as bank statements) of Social Security, annuities, insurance, retirement, pension, disability, death, or other benefits;iii. Form 1099 interest statement, unemployment compensation statement, Social Security, annuities, insurance policies, retirement funds, pensions, annuities, capital gain, disability ordeath benefits and other similar types of periodic receipts;iv. Documentation of the net income from the operation of a business or profession, including direct payments for services for self-employed individuals;v. Bank statements covering at least two consecutive months prior to the submission of the application;vi. Letter from employer indicating reduced pay;vii. Documentation of public assistance cash benefits (TANF);viii. Documentation of child support or alimony payments;ix. Zero Income: If household is without income, a selfcertification of zero income will be required;x. If paid in cash or place of employment is now closed, a selfcertification of income will be required.Note: Households choosing the monthly income method “c”must complete a recertification of income every three months for the duration of assistance.4. Household is renting. The household must be renting the residence for which they are requesting assistance and must have a written lease agreement or other suitable documentation. The residence must be the household's primary residence and must be in Kansas. The tenant must not have ownership in the property for which they are requesting rental assistance. Documentation could include one of the following (a or b):a. Current lease or other suitable documentation including:i. Signature of applicant and landlord or sublessor,ii. Unit where the applicant resides, andiii. Rental payment amount.b. If the household does not have a signed lease, documentation mayinclude:i. Documentation of utility payments for the residential unit,ii. Attestation by a landlord who can be identified as the verifiedowner or management agent of the unit, oriii. Cancelled checks, electronic records of payment services (Venmo, Paypal, etc.) or bank statements showing payments to the landlord.5. Proof of identification. Applicant must provide one of the following:a. Current driver’s license or state-issued photo ID,b. Utility or cell phone bill,c. Court filing notice, ord. Mail from a federal, state, county, or city agency.Duplication/ Coordination of Benefits:To the extent feasible, KHRC shall ensure that any rental assistance provided to an eligible household pursuant to funds made available under this section is not duplicative of any other federally funded rental assistance provided to such household. Only one application per household is allowed. A household is defined as everyone living in a unit excluding live-in aides and guests.KHRC must review the household’s income and sources of assistance to confirm that KERA assistance does not duplicate any other assistance, including federal, state, and local assistance provided for the same costs.If an eligible household receives a monthly federal subsidy (e.g., a Housing Choice Voucher, public housing, or Project-Based Rental Assistance) and the tenant rent is adjusted according to changes in income, the renter household must request an interim recertification to recalculate their tenant rent if there has been a change in income before they are eligible for KERA assistance.If a household receives rental assistance other than KERA, the KERA assistance may only be used to pay for costs, such as the tenant-paid portion of rent, utility costs, and internet, that are not covered by other rental assistance sources.Applications will be checked against the LIEAP list of Kansans served. If applicants have received LIEAP benefits in 2021 they will be eligible for utility assistance only after LIEAP benefits have been applied to their bill.Payments:• Payments will be made to the lessor or utility provider on behalf of the eligible household.• The household will be provided with documentation of any payments made on their behalf.• Utility payments and internet service will be for past amounts or current amounts due.• Rental assistance payment will include cumulative arrears and three prospective months of assistance in one lump sum. Should applicants need future assistance, they must reapply in three-month increments. Applicants may reapply as long as assistance is needed up to the 12-month limit, or 15 months if necessary to ensure housing stability.Prioritization of Assistance:Applications will be processed based on a prioritization scoring model. The model gives points for:• Level of income (lower the income tier, higher the priority)• Income to amount requested ratio• Days unemployed• Number of household members unemployed• Number of months delinquent• Eviction status• Disconnect of utilities status• Date application was submittedApplication for Assistance:Application Processo Landlord completes online certification.o Tenant submits online application.o Landlord and tenant are notified when application is processed.o If approved, landlord and/or utility provider(s) receive funds directly from KHRC.o Landlord and/or utility provider(s) applies assistance to tenant account.Delivery Model:KHRC has an existing database of landlords and tenants who applied during the previous Kansas Eviction Prevention Program (KEPP). Email notifications of program opening will be sent to this list and at the same time KHRC will begin a media outreach campaign.The application deadline will be August 1, 2021. The August deadline will allow our staff to process as many applications as possible in anticipation of obligating at least 65 percent of the allocated program funds by September 30, 2021.Notwithstanding the prioritization scoring model, applications will be processed on a first-completed, first served basis.

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