HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the Reno County Planning Commission prepares to address possible regulation changes to wind farms, the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce believes that the current regulations are appropriate and should not be amended. Any attempt to implement unreasonable setbacks are an attempt to effectively stop any wind farm development in Reno County. The chamber released this statement.

“Kansans have been using wind power for generations and is now one of the top-ranked states for wind energy. According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), corporate customers across the U.S. are buying record amounts of wind power and Kansas is the third highest in wind energy exports. In a recent article, AWEA also states that one of our State’s future growth opportunities is to capitalize on the natural resource we are given as central to the wind belt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over a decade ago, the Reno County Wind Energy Task Force was created to explore opportunities for wind power. Members of the task force were instrumental in developing a wind energy policy in Kansas. Our Chamber's public policy agenda supports wind energy as a key component of our economic development strategy, and our communities have all benefited from the 300+ jobs at Siemens Gamesa. Just as our community benefits from industries which extract a natural resource far beneath the surface in one of the largest salt-producing regions, Reno County has the opportunity to become an exporter of the very natural resource that blows abundantly across our plains.

A progressive policy for wind energy development is important to Reno County’s economic future based on the direct jobs, construction jobs, and added tax base that wind farms create for communities. We encourage all Chamber members who support economic development and job creation to attend and/or send written testimony in support of the regulations as currently written.&nbsp; Written testimony can be sent to Mark Vonachen at mark.vonachen@renogov.org.”

The planning commission meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580397097469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the Reno County Planning Commission prepares to address possible regulation changes to wind farms, the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce believes that the current regulations are appropriate and should not be amended. Any attempt to implement unreasonable setbacks are an attempt to effectively stop any wind farm development in Reno County. The chamber released this statement.“Kansans have been using wind power for generations and is now one of the top-ranked states for wind energy. According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), corporate customers across the U.S. are buying record amounts of wind power and Kansas is the third highest in wind energy exports. In a recent article, AWEA also states that one of our State’s future growth opportunities is to capitalize on the natural resource we are given as central to the wind belt.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over a decade ago, the Reno County Wind Energy Task Force was created to explore opportunities for wind power. Members of the task force were instrumental in developing a wind energy policy in Kansas. Our Chamber's public policy agenda supports wind energy as a key component of our economic development strategy, and our communities have all benefited from the 300+ jobs at Siemens Gamesa. Just as our community benefits from industries which extract a natural resource far beneath the surface in one of the largest salt-producing regions, Reno County has the opportunity to become an exporter of the very natural resource that blows abundantly across our plains.A progressive policy for wind energy development is important to Reno County’s economic future based on the direct jobs, construction jobs, and added tax base that wind farms create for communities. We encourage all Chamber members who support economic development and job creation to attend and/or send written testimony in support of the regulations as currently written.&nbsp; Written testimony can be sent to Mark Vonachen at mark.vonachen@renogov.org.”The planning commission meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Reno County Courthouse.

Chamber backs current wind regulations

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A garage fire kept Hutchinson fire crews busy Wednesday. 

According to a release from the Hutchinson Fire Department, crews were called to 423 East 15th at 5:21 p.m. Wednesday. 

The person who reported the fire said flames and smoke were coming from the detached garage.&nbsp; The fire was quickly knocked down, but in order to get the water to the fire, a block of Plum Street was closed for about an hour to allow fire crews to operate in the roadway. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A garage fire kept Hutchinson fire crews busy Wednesday. According to a release from the Hutchinson Fire Department, crews were called to 423 East 15th at 5:21 p.m. Wednesday. The person who reported the fire said flames and smoke were coming from the detached garage.&nbsp; The fire was quickly knocked down, but in order to get the water to the fire, a block of Plum Street was closed for about an hour to allow fire crews to operate in the roadway. The fire is still under investigation.

Garage fire causes brief street closure in Hutchinson Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Planner Ryan Hvitlok says the city received 13 applications for assistance from the CDBG-CV funds recently awarded to the city.

Hvitlok says all of the applicants provided sound presentations in asking for assistance.

“We were pleased with the turnout,” Hivtlok said. “Hopefully we’re able to make some awards to really help some of these good businesses.”

The $132,000 grant was handed out to help with various types of costs from rent, to utilities, to product restocking. Hvitlok says there was one thing with the applications that surprised him.

“The most interesting thing is we have a lot of very, very small businesses, sole proprietorships or businesses with one or two employees,” Hvitlok said. “They tried to get some of the assistance and just weren’t able to through paycheck protection and or SBA loans or things like that.”

The city planner also said the businesses wanted help in nearly every category offered.

“A lot of it was capital costs so we’re looking at utilities, we’re looking at rent or mortgage, things like that,” Hvitlok said. “We did have a handful of businesses, some of our food businesses, that were requesting help with inventory and things like that because they have to replenish that inventory that either they had to throw out or restock.”

The city will meet next Tuesday and decide how the funds will be distributed. If there is any money left, the city will put out a second application process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592424265347.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Planner Ryan Hvitlok says the city received 13 applications for assistance from the CDBG-CV funds recently awarded to the city.Hvitlok says all of the applicants provided sound presentations in asking for assistance.“We were pleased with the turnout,” Hivtlok said. “Hopefully we’re able to make some awards to really help some of these good businesses.”The $132,000 grant was handed out to help with various types of costs from rent, to utilities, to product restocking. Hvitlok says there was one thing with the applications that surprised him.“The most interesting thing is we have a lot of very, very small businesses, sole proprietorships or businesses with one or two employees,” Hvitlok said. “They tried to get some of the assistance and just weren’t able to through paycheck protection and or SBA loans or things like that.”The city planner also said the businesses wanted help in nearly every category offered.“A lot of it was capital costs so we’re looking at utilities, we’re looking at rent or mortgage, things like that,” Hvitlok said. “We did have a handful of businesses, some of our food businesses, that were requesting help with inventory and things like that because they have to replenish that inventory that either they had to throw out or restock.”The city will meet next Tuesday and decide how the funds will be distributed. If there is any money left, the city will put out a second application process.

Applications in for CDBG-CV funds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With harvest underway, all eyes are not only on the skies, but on the markets as well. This year could be a little better for farmers.

“On the marketing side, our producers have had an opportunity to market wheat over $5 several times throughout the last couple of months,” Devin Schierling, marketing manager for Team Marketing Alliance, said. “Normally, coming into this time frame we see some harvest pressure. We’re at numbers that are higher than we were a year ago.”&nbsp;

People who pass by grain elevators often see large piles of grain on the ground. Schierling says that yield numbers should be strong in the area and there will be enough storage and railcars to move the harvest around.

“Market access is extremely important for the country elevators,” Schierling said. “The market gave us the indication in the past to pick up a lot of grain and move it, making room for both this harvest and fall harvest.”

While it has been a tough road for farmers recently, Schierling says those who have taken advantage of farm programs and managed their revenue should see better days ahead.

“Things in the farm gate continue to be very challenging,” Schierling said. “If you look at some of the recent data that came out, a majority of the farm income is going to be coming from off-farm revenue, meaning government programs and support versus actual profitability from growing the crops.”

Still, the strong harvest numbers should help.

“We should see above-average yields and be able to put some revenue and cash flow back,” Schierling said. “Things are still really challenging at the farm gate for those who haven’t been aggressive in managing their risk management program.”&nbsp;

So far, harvest is looking good in central Kansas with weights coming in over 60 pounds and yields running over 70 bushels per acre in some areas of Reno County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585683532863.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — With harvest underway, all eyes are not only on the skies, but on the markets as well. This year could be a little better for farmers.“On the marketing side, our producers have had an opportunity to market wheat over $5 several times throughout the last couple of months,” Devin Schierling, marketing manager for Team Marketing Alliance, said. “Normally, coming into this time frame we see some harvest pressure. We’re at numbers that are higher than we were a year ago.”&nbsp;People who pass by grain elevators often see large piles of grain on the ground. Schierling says that yield numbers should be strong in the area and there will be enough storage and railcars to move the harvest around.“Market access is extremely important for the country elevators,” Schierling said. “The market gave us the indication in the past to pick up a lot of grain and move it, making room for both this harvest and fall harvest.”While it has been a tough road for farmers recently, Schierling says those who have taken advantage of farm programs and managed their revenue should see better days ahead.“Things in the farm gate continue to be very challenging,” Schierling said. “If you look at some of the recent data that came out, a majority of the farm income is going to be coming from off-farm revenue, meaning government programs and support versus actual profitability from growing the crops.”Still, the strong harvest numbers should help.“We should see above-average yields and be able to put some revenue and cash flow back,” Schierling said. “Things are still really challenging at the farm gate for those who haven’t been aggressive in managing their risk management program.”&nbsp;So far, harvest is looking good in central Kansas with weights coming in over 60 pounds and yields running over 70 bushels per acre in some areas of Reno County.

Wheat market looking better than last year as harvest kicks off

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The first quarter earnings parade for companies with ties to Hutchinson comes to an end on Thursday when Kroger releases its first quarter numbers.

The parent company of Dillons reported total company sales of $28.9 billion for the last three months of 2019 compared with $28.3 billion in 2018. Adjusting operating profit totaled $758 million compared with $628 million the previous year.

While most of the companies were able to weather the storm in the first quarter, which was in the early stages of the pandemic, more telling numbers will be coming when Union Pacific kicks off the second quarter reports July 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584040619502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The first quarter earnings parade for companies with ties to Hutchinson comes to an end on Thursday when Kroger releases its first quarter numbers.The parent company of Dillons reported total company sales of $28.9 billion for the last three months of 2019 compared with $28.3 billion in 2018. Adjusting operating profit totaled $758 million compared with $628 million the previous year.While most of the companies were able to weather the storm in the first quarter, which was in the early stages of the pandemic, more telling numbers will be coming when Union Pacific kicks off the second quarter reports July 16.

Kroger announces first quarter earnings Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A motion hearing for a Hutchinson man facing charges of first-degree murder has been continued to a later date in Reno County District Court.

Isaac Ervin is accused of killing Lora Beth Stratton in August of 2019. He filed a motion for dismissal of charges claiming self-defense. The motion states that Ervin took action against Stratton under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law “where the use of force against another person was justified in self-defense.” Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton says Ervin’s claim does not hold any legal ground.&nbsp;

The hearing was to be heard before Judge Tim Chambers but has been delayed while awaiting a mental evaluation for the defendant. No new court date has been set.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592421920120.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A motion hearing for a Hutchinson man facing charges of first-degree murder has been continued to a later date in Reno County District Court.Isaac Ervin is accused of killing Lora Beth Stratton in August of 2019. He filed a motion for dismissal of charges claiming self-defense. The motion states that Ervin took action against Stratton under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law “where the use of force against another person was justified in self-defense.” Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton says Ervin’s claim does not hold any legal ground.&nbsp;The hearing was to be heard before Judge Tim Chambers but has been delayed while awaiting a mental evaluation for the defendant. No new court date has been set.

Motion hearing for murder suspect delayed

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use K-11 and K-42 in Reno and Kingman counties will see some delays as crews perform maintenance on those two highways starting later this month.

The chip seal work will occur on K-11, starting at the U.S. 54 junction in Kingman County, and go north about 17 miles to the K61 junction in Reno County. That work is expected to start around June 29.&nbsp;

K-42 work will start at the K-14 junction in Kingman County and move east 16 miles to the K-2 junction in Sumner County. That work is expected to begin around June 22.&nbsp;

The work should be finished in early July, depending on the weather. During the work, motorists should expect delays of up to 15 minutes and be prepared to stop for flaggers and a pilot car.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592421758764.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use K-11 and K-42 in Reno and Kingman counties will see some delays as crews perform maintenance on those two highways starting later this month.The chip seal work will occur on K-11, starting at the U.S. 54 junction in Kingman County, and go north about 17 miles to the K61 junction in Reno County. That work is expected to start around June 29.&nbsp;K-42 work will start at the K-14 junction in Kingman County and move east 16 miles to the K-2 junction in Sumner County. That work is expected to begin around June 22.&nbsp;The work should be finished in early July, depending on the weather. During the work, motorists should expect delays of up to 15 minutes and be prepared to stop for flaggers and a pilot car.&nbsp;

Road work to slow motorists on K-11 and K-42

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department said goodbye to two captains who just retired.&nbsp;

Capt. Greg Henke served with the department for the past 25 years and Capt. R.C. Watson served for the past 27 years.&nbsp;

Both were recognized by the department for their long service on Tuesday by receiving their helmets, a plaque and a folded American flag.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592341145586.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department said goodbye to two captains who just retired.&nbsp;Capt. Greg Henke served with the department for the past 25 years and Capt. R.C. Watson served for the past 27 years.&nbsp;Both were recognized by the department for their long service on Tuesday by receiving their helmets, a plaque and a folded American flag.&nbsp;

HFD says goodbye to two longtime firefighters


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County and City of Hutchinson officials met this week to talk about the local response to the question of whether or not there should be a 2020 Kansas State Fair.

"On top of the issues that we're having to deal with, with COVID of course, we also are dealing with some politics of being forced to local decision-making versus being shoved back to the state level," said Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell Tuesday. "This is a state event, state property. What the consensus of the group was is that we have a communication to the Governor and some of her immediate associates that this really is a state decision."

Local government has no intent to get in the way of whatever the state decides.

"I think we were united in that discussion that we would have a communication that would be a companion communication with the county that would go out to that effect," Cantrell said. 

The Kansas State Fair is scheduled for September 11 to 20 in Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585171484470.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County and City of Hutchinson officials met this week to talk about the local response to the question of whether or not there should be a 2020 Kansas State Fair."On top of the issues that we're having to deal with, with COVID of course, we also are dealing with some politics of being forced to local decision-making versus being shoved back to the state level," said Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell Tuesday. "This is a state event, state property. What the consensus of the group was is that we have a communication to the Governor and some of her immediate associates that this really is a state decision."Local government has no intent to get in the way of whatever the state decides."I think we were united in that discussion that we would have a communication that would be a companion communication with the county that would go out to that effect," Cantrell said. The Kansas State Fair is scheduled for September 11 to 20 in Hutchinson.

Local officials will leave State Fair decision to that level


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site will begin work again starting next week.

"We lost about five weeks of tax preparation time," said Sue Wegerle with the Hutchinson VITA site. "We're going to try to get at least three weeks of it back."

There will be a 20 person limit in the site. Walk-ins are first come, first served and anyone who enters must wear a mask.

"The Volunteer Center has had a number of people who have called to ask if we would be opening back up," Wegerle said. "We are going to try to do that starting next Tuesday, June 23rd. We'll be open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday."

The office will be open at the Salvation Army at 700 North Walnut from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 23-25, June 30-July 2 and July 7-9.

"I'm not sure how this is going to work, but I'm still looking forward to doing it as I would in a typical year," Wegerle said. "There are a lot of people in our city who really benefit from the service. We would like to help as many people as we can."

Wegerle said that they had served about two-thirds of their typical client load prior to COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579706571729.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site will begin work again starting next week."We lost about five weeks of tax preparation time," said Sue Wegerle with the Hutchinson VITA site. "We're going to try to get at least three weeks of it back."There will be a 20 person limit in the site. Walk-ins are first come, first served and anyone who enters must wear a mask."The Volunteer Center has had a number of people who have called to ask if we would be opening back up," Wegerle said. "We are going to try to do that starting next Tuesday, June 23rd. We'll be open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday."The office will be open at the Salvation Army at 700 North Walnut from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 23-25, June 30-July 2 and July 7-9."I'm not sure how this is going to work, but I'm still looking forward to doing it as I would in a typical year," Wegerle said. "There are a lot of people in our city who really benefit from the service. We would like to help as many people as we can."Wegerle said that they had served about two-thirds of their typical client load prior to COVID-19.

VITA tax site to reopen for three weeks

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Kansas Policy Institute has released its <a href="https://kansaspolicy.org/2020-green-book/">2020 Green Book</a>.

"Kansans have seen a lot of economic turbulence this year with the COVID-19 pandemic," said economist Michael Austin. "Our hope is that our latest version of the Green Book can suggest what policies Kansans need to see faster economic recovery. It's a wake up call of sorts, showing the many ways government policies, some that we've seen here in Kansas are dragging Kansans behind."

Though COVID-19 made the situation worse, it wasn't good to begin with, according to Austin.

"Our Green Book shows that Kansas was a laggard in growth well before the public crisis hit," Austin said. "Whether it’s jobs, wages, or economic output, what we tend to see is that states with lower tax burdens grow faster than Kansas as well as grow faster than states that have higher tax burdens."

Slowing jobs and accelerating government budgets perhaps explains the upward trend of property taxes.

"In 2018, Kansas spent about $4000 in terms of government spending per resident," Austin said. "The best economically performing states spend 13% fewer dollars per resident."

It is important to note that spending on schools in Kansas is considered government spending and more than half of the state's budget goes to K-12 education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592401057414.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Kansas Policy Institute has released its <a href="https://kansaspolicy.org/2020-green-book/">2020 Green Book</a>."Kansans have seen a lot of economic turbulence this year with the COVID-19 pandemic," said economist Michael Austin. "Our hope is that our latest version of the Green Book can suggest what policies Kansans need to see faster economic recovery. It's a wake up call of sorts, showing the many ways government policies, some that we've seen here in Kansas are dragging Kansans behind."Though COVID-19 made the situation worse, it wasn't good to begin with, according to Austin."Our Green Book shows that Kansas was a laggard in growth well before the public crisis hit," Austin said. "Whether it’s jobs, wages, or economic output, what we tend to see is that states with lower tax burdens grow faster than Kansas as well as grow faster than states that have higher tax burdens."Slowing jobs and accelerating government budgets perhaps explains the upward trend of property taxes."In 2018, Kansas spent about $4000 in terms of government spending per resident," Austin said. "The best economically performing states spend 13% fewer dollars per resident."It is important to note that spending on schools in Kansas is considered government spending and more than half of the state's budget goes to K-12 education.

2020 Green Book provides stats on state spending


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Some smaller counties don't deal with enough of certain types of crime and so they hand off violent crime prosecution to the Kansas Attorney General's Office. Reno County does not traditionally follow that practice.

"As a general rule, we do not hand those off," said Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton. "We are a District Attorney's office, which means every attorney in our office is limited in their practice to serving the people of Reno County as criminal prosecutors. We use our expertise to prosecute cases."

There have been a couple of times the AG has been brought in, but those have to do with ethical concerns, not an inability to do the work.

"Mostly that has been when we feel like their might be a conflict," Stanton said. "For example, somebody is being prosecuted either that has a relationship to the office, or maybe a local law enforcement officer is someone that is being prosecuted. Because of our desire to make sure that there is never an appearance of impropriety in anything we do, if we're too close to a situation, we will call in the Attorney General, but, other than that, we prosecute our own cases, even up to capital murder."

Stanton has noticed that he is not able to handle as much of a caseload since leading the office as he did when he was deputy.

"I filed 150 felony cases last year," Stanton said. "That's a pretty good caseload for one person to handle. As District Attorney, I can tell you that so many things have come up. We had so many meetings, for example, my first week, just based on what was going on in the community with the protests that were coming and logistical planning for that."

Stanton is still handling some previously filed drug cases as well as a murder case and an attempted murder case. He will be on the ballot in November in hopes of retaining the office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577811770610.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Some smaller counties don't deal with enough of certain types of crime and so they hand off violent crime prosecution to the Kansas Attorney General's Office. Reno County does not traditionally follow that practice."As a general rule, we do not hand those off," said Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton. "We are a District Attorney's office, which means every attorney in our office is limited in their practice to serving the people of Reno County as criminal prosecutors. We use our expertise to prosecute cases."There have been a couple of times the AG has been brought in, but those have to do with ethical concerns, not an inability to do the work."Mostly that has been when we feel like their might be a conflict," Stanton said. "For example, somebody is being prosecuted either that has a relationship to the office, or maybe a local law enforcement officer is someone that is being prosecuted. Because of our desire to make sure that there is never an appearance of impropriety in anything we do, if we're too close to a situation, we will call in the Attorney General, but, other than that, we prosecute our own cases, even up to capital murder."Stanton has noticed that he is not able to handle as much of a caseload since leading the office as he did when he was deputy."I filed 150 felony cases last year," Stanton said. "That's a pretty good caseload for one person to handle. As District Attorney, I can tell you that so many things have come up. We had so many meetings, for example, my first week, just based on what was going on in the community with the protests that were coming and logistical planning for that."Stanton is still handling some previously filed drug cases as well as a murder case and an attempted murder case. He will be on the ballot in November in hopes of retaining the office.

Reno County DA seldom hands cases off, but can't take on as much in new role

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti took time during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting to address the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state.

“We are beginning to see some activity in aggregate that is increasing our case count in terms of day-over-day,” Baldetti said.&nbsp;

Baldetti says that, while the state report is cause for concern, he is more concerned with focusing on what’s going on locally.

“I’m not discounting the entirety of this map,” Baldetti said when addressing commission questions about the increases. “There are counties where counts are going up significantly and are trending in the wrong direction. I just want to be very careful in clarifying in terms of the activity that the public health department is monitoring for us.”

As of now, there are four active cases of COVID-19 involving Reno County residents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti took time during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting to address the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state.“We are beginning to see some activity in aggregate that is increasing our case count in terms of day-over-day,” Baldetti said.&nbsp;Baldetti says that, while the state report is cause for concern, he is more concerned with focusing on what’s going on locally.“I’m not discounting the entirety of this map,” Baldetti said when addressing commission questions about the increases. “There are counties where counts are going up significantly and are trending in the wrong direction. I just want to be very careful in clarifying in terms of the activity that the public health department is monitoring for us.”As of now, there are four active cases of COVID-19 involving Reno County residents.

COVID-19 case increase is being watched closely

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved extending Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeanne Stroh’s contract for another month during Monday’s agenda session.&nbsp;

Stroh has been filling in for Dr. Dawn Johnson the past year while Johnson attended the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C.

Johnson has completed her coursework but was given an assignment and will be busy with that through the end of July.

The board also took time to recognize Jackie Ashcraft, who was a longtime instructor around the area. Sen. Ed Berger was behind the presentation to Ashcraft, who taught at area schools for 50 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved extending Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeanne Stroh’s contract for another month during Monday’s agenda session.&nbsp;Stroh has been filling in for Dr. Dawn Johnson the past year while Johnson attended the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C.Johnson has completed her coursework but was given an assignment and will be busy with that through the end of July.The board also took time to recognize Jackie Ashcraft, who was a longtime instructor around the area. Sen. Ed Berger was behind the presentation to Ashcraft, who taught at area schools for 50 years.

Stroh's contract extended for one month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even pollinators like to dine at the Kansas State Fair. And although it may make you sneeze and your eyes itch, the fair is getting ready to celebrate all that is pollen with a special event next week.

The Kansas State Fair’s Education Department is recognizing the important role of bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects during National Pollinator Week while having some fun at the same time.

The fairgrounds will be abuzz June 23 with the fair’s inaugural Pollinator Picnic. The day’s festivities are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and include hands-on activities at the fair’s Education Center, talks at the Lake Talbott pollinator garden and food trucks. The fair’s new mascot, Ike, will also make an appearance for photos at 5:30 p.m. at the Education Center.

Food trucks include a Pronto Pup trailer, along with cheese curd and funnel cake vendors. Fair staff will also be giving away 200 seeded sunflower plants and 2020 Pollinator Partnership posters.

Pollinators are vital to production agriculture. The global food supply relies on pollinators for crops to flourish. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that one out of every three bites of food Americans eat exists because of pollinators.

The fair has expanded its pollinator education the past few years, which includes four pollinator gardens across the fairgrounds and curriculum centered on their significance.

The Pollinator Party is free and open to the public. Vendors will be selling food from their trucks. The fair’s Sunflower Gift Shop will also be open in the Education Center. While the event is mainly outside, the fair reminds people to be considerate of others and to social distance. Hand sanitizer stations will be on location, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own sanitizer. For more information, email Jacki Eckert at <a href="mailto:Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov">Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592323770888.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even pollinators like to dine at the Kansas State Fair. And although it may make you sneeze and your eyes itch, the fair is getting ready to celebrate all that is pollen with a special event next week.The Kansas State Fair’s Education Department is recognizing the important role of bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects during National Pollinator Week while having some fun at the same time.The fairgrounds will be abuzz June 23 with the fair’s inaugural Pollinator Picnic. The day’s festivities are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and include hands-on activities at the fair’s Education Center, talks at the Lake Talbott pollinator garden and food trucks. The fair’s new mascot, Ike, will also make an appearance for photos at 5:30 p.m. at the Education Center.Food trucks include a Pronto Pup trailer, along with cheese curd and funnel cake vendors. Fair staff will also be giving away 200 seeded sunflower plants and 2020 Pollinator Partnership posters.Pollinators are vital to production agriculture. The global food supply relies on pollinators for crops to flourish. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that one out of every three bites of food Americans eat exists because of pollinators.The fair has expanded its pollinator education the past few years, which includes four pollinator gardens across the fairgrounds and curriculum centered on their significance.The Pollinator Party is free and open to the public. Vendors will be selling food from their trucks. The fair’s Sunflower Gift Shop will also be open in the Education Center. While the event is mainly outside, the fair reminds people to be considerate of others and to social distance. Hand sanitizer stations will be on location, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own sanitizer. For more information, email Jacki Eckert at <a href="mailto:Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov">Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov</a>.

Kansas State Fair to celebrate all that is pollen

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Liberty Bell 7 spacecraft came back home to the Cosmosphere on Monday after touring around the world for the past six years.&nbsp;

Cosmosphere president Jim Remar says the tour of the spacecraft serves two purposes for the museum. He understands that the Cosmosphere mission is to not only care for the artifacts, but to share them as well.

“The Liberty Bell is owned by the Cosmosphere and obviously is an important part of our collection,” Remar said. “We feel that part of our mission is to share our artifacts with the public at large.”

Remar says there is revenue that comes into the museum for sharing the artifacts that help fund the museum’s operations. While the spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean floor is certainly the most recognizable artifact that the Cosmosphere tours, it's not the only one.

“We have two international exhibits that we support,” Remar said. “And then we’re in conversation with a group in Brazil for a third international exhibit, so we literally have hundreds of artifacts around the globe.”

Most of these items, including the Liberty Bell, are valuable beyond a number. Remar admits being a little nervous when such artifacts are on tour:

“The spacecraft is invaluable,” Remar noted. “It’s an incredible artifact and has a special place in this county’s history of space exploration and so it does make you nervous as it crisscrosses the country and even travels internationally.”

The Cosmosphere is one of the few museums to have a spacecraft from each of the space race programs with Liberty Bell 7, Gemini 10 and Apollo 13.

The Liberty Bell will be in Hutchinson until the end of the year before making its way to South America.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592336526321.jpeg" alt="The Liberty Bell 7, flown by Gus Grissom, sits in the lobby of the Cosmosphere. The spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean after more than 40 years has been on tour. It will be at the museum until the end of the year." />
 <figcaption>The Liberty Bell 7, flown by Gus Grissom, sits in the lobby of the Cosmosphere. The spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean after more than 40 years has been on tour. It will be at the museum until the end of the year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Liberty Bell 7 spacecraft came back home to the Cosmosphere on Monday after touring around the world for the past six years.&nbsp;Cosmosphere president Jim Remar says the tour of the spacecraft serves two purposes for the museum. He understands that the Cosmosphere mission is to not only care for the artifacts, but to share them as well.“The Liberty Bell is owned by the Cosmosphere and obviously is an important part of our collection,” Remar said. “We feel that part of our mission is to share our artifacts with the public at large.”Remar says there is revenue that comes into the museum for sharing the artifacts that help fund the museum’s operations. While the spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean floor is certainly the most recognizable artifact that the Cosmosphere tours, it's not the only one.“We have two international exhibits that we support,” Remar said. “And then we’re in conversation with a group in Brazil for a third international exhibit, so we literally have hundreds of artifacts around the globe.”Most of these items, including the Liberty Bell, are valuable beyond a number. Remar admits being a little nervous when such artifacts are on tour:“The spacecraft is invaluable,” Remar noted. “It’s an incredible artifact and has a special place in this county’s history of space exploration and so it does make you nervous as it crisscrosses the country and even travels internationally.”The Cosmosphere is one of the few museums to have a spacecraft from each of the space race programs with Liberty Bell 7, Gemini 10 and Apollo 13.The Liberty Bell will be in Hutchinson until the end of the year before making its way to South America.&nbsp;

Liberty Bell tour a necessary part of Cosmosphere's operations

NEWTON, Kan. — Stressing that COVID-19 has not gone away and care still needs to be taken, Harvey County will transition to the Phase Out guidance of the Harvey County Health Reopening Plan regarding COVID-19 response beginning June 17.

The Harvey County Commission, in consultation with the Harvey County Health Department, voted unanimously at its regular meeting Tuesday to move forward in its local plan. However, visitation at long-term care facilities will remain restricted through June 23.

The Phase Out guidance does not restrict mass gathering size. Businesses and event coordinators are still encouraged to promote hygiene protocols and social distancing among customers and visitors.

Individuals should remain home if they feel sick. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your medical provider.

The Harvey County Health Reopening Plan will remain available should the commission determine it is in the interest of public health to move back to a previous phase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — Stressing that COVID-19 has not gone away and care still needs to be taken, Harvey County will transition to the Phase Out guidance of the Harvey County Health Reopening Plan regarding COVID-19 response beginning June 17.The Harvey County Commission, in consultation with the Harvey County Health Department, voted unanimously at its regular meeting Tuesday to move forward in its local plan. However, visitation at long-term care facilities will remain restricted through June 23.The Phase Out guidance does not restrict mass gathering size. Businesses and event coordinators are still encouraged to promote hygiene protocols and social distancing among customers and visitors.Individuals should remain home if they feel sick. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your medical provider.The Harvey County Health Reopening Plan will remain available should the commission determine it is in the interest of public health to move back to a previous phase.

Harvey County further easing restrictions


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Municipal Band is pleased to announce their 2020 Summer Concert Series begins Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.

"This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we're going to start with the Salt City Jazz Band, which has about 20 players in it," said President Randy Johnston. The Municipal Band itself typically has between 35 and 40 players on any given evening and we have a quintet unit that circulates the rest of the year, a brass quintet that's Christmas music and music at other special events, often performing at Veteran's Day and so on."

All concerts are held on Tuesdays at 8:00 pm in Carey Park next to the Hutchinson Zoo and generally last around one hour.

"There are paid players and there are volunteer players," Johnston said. "The band members come from here in Hutchinson, but also surrounding communities of Buhler and Haven and Sterling and so forth. The directors that are band instructors during the school year typically are often there as players. It gives them an opportunity to play rather than conduct."

Given that the only rehearsals are the evening of the performances, it is a bit of an endurance exercise.

"It is clear early in the season that you run out of chops pretty quick," Johnston said. "Your mouth gets pretty tired, but fundamentally it's pretty good. More important than that, I would say are sight-reading skills, because we don't get to rehearse the pieces but the one time or maybe a bit of a walkthrough, so you have to be fairly good at sight-reading, but then you have to be able to play for almost a three-hour period in effect, to complete the concerts."

Patrons are asked to enjoy concerts from the comfort of their vehicles or bring their own lawn chairs and practice social distancing by leaving six feet between parties. Admission is free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592332533718.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Municipal Band is pleased to announce their 2020 Summer Concert Series begins Tuesday at 8:00 p.m."This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we're going to start with the Salt City Jazz Band, which has about 20 players in it," said President Randy Johnston. The Municipal Band itself typically has between 35 and 40 players on any given evening and we have a quintet unit that circulates the rest of the year, a brass quintet that's Christmas music and music at other special events, often performing at Veteran's Day and so on."All concerts are held on Tuesdays at 8:00 pm in Carey Park next to the Hutchinson Zoo and generally last around one hour."There are paid players and there are volunteer players," Johnston said. "The band members come from here in Hutchinson, but also surrounding communities of Buhler and Haven and Sterling and so forth. The directors that are band instructors during the school year typically are often there as players. It gives them an opportunity to play rather than conduct."Given that the only rehearsals are the evening of the performances, it is a bit of an endurance exercise."It is clear early in the season that you run out of chops pretty quick," Johnston said. "Your mouth gets pretty tired, but fundamentally it's pretty good. More important than that, I would say are sight-reading skills, because we don't get to rehearse the pieces but the one time or maybe a bit of a walkthrough, so you have to be fairly good at sight-reading, but then you have to be able to play for almost a three-hour period in effect, to complete the concerts."Patrons are asked to enjoy concerts from the comfort of their vehicles or bring their own lawn chairs and practice social distancing by leaving six feet between parties. Admission is free.

Municipal band to begin 145th season Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper is concerned that covering the special events in the community like those to take place on the 4th of July makes it more difficult to do day-to-day police work in the current budget situation.

"All of last year, we worked really hard to build up that relationship with those community engagements, those community initiatives and attending those community events and really making that connection with the community," Hooper said. "We also implemented our intelligence-led policing strategy and implemented crime reduction strategies and we were successful, because we lowered our crime rate by 28%."

At the end of January, the city had lowered crime another 1.7%. After ending non-essential overtime, crime has gone up 2%. By the end of May, crime in the community is back up 4.4% and violent crime is up 8.8%.

"There are times in this city with our shortage of manpower, that we're short resources on the street, just responding to regular calls," Hooper said. "When we talk about events like this, it requires overtime to do these events. With COVID-19 hitting and our shortfalls, we obviously had to cut back on all our overtime and I was up here a few months ago committing to you that we would eliminate all non-essential overtime and we've done that. What has happened is, that means we have not been able to engage in those community events and those things that are really important, I think, for our relationship and connection with the community, but also we've not been able to engage in a lot of our crime reduction strategies."

The department is still down six officers from what Hooper would consider full strength. Eight additional officers are in training, so they're working right now 14 short.

"Crime is creeping back up," Hooper said. "I don't want to get back to where we were before, where we have a high crime rate in this city, because I think that effects a lot. It effects commerce. It effects people wanting to come here, businesses wanting to come here and that's super important to me."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591796149452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper is concerned that covering the special events in the community like those to take place on the 4th of July makes it more difficult to do day-to-day police work in the current budget situation."All of last year, we worked really hard to build up that relationship with those community engagements, those community initiatives and attending those community events and really making that connection with the community," Hooper said. "We also implemented our intelligence-led policing strategy and implemented crime reduction strategies and we were successful, because we lowered our crime rate by 28%."At the end of January, the city had lowered crime another 1.7%. After ending non-essential overtime, crime has gone up 2%. By the end of May, crime in the community is back up 4.4% and violent crime is up 8.8%."There are times in this city with our shortage of manpower, that we're short resources on the street, just responding to regular calls," Hooper said. "When we talk about events like this, it requires overtime to do these events. With COVID-19 hitting and our shortfalls, we obviously had to cut back on all our overtime and I was up here a few months ago committing to you that we would eliminate all non-essential overtime and we've done that. What has happened is, that means we have not been able to engage in those community events and those things that are really important, I think, for our relationship and connection with the community, but also we've not been able to engage in a lot of our crime reduction strategies."The department is still down six officers from what Hooper would consider full strength. Eight additional officers are in training, so they're working right now 14 short."Crime is creeping back up," Hooper said. "I don't want to get back to where we were before, where we have a high crime rate in this city, because I think that effects a lot. It effects commerce. It effects people wanting to come here, businesses wanting to come here and that's super important to me."The city currently has 75 officers.

Hooper: Budget and understaffing stretching police resources


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;In light of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision this week that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act gives employment protections to LGBTQ people on the basis of sex, Hutchinson Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho asked City of Hutchinson Human Relations Officer Datjeda Moore where city policy should go next to clarify compliance with the decision.

"I also am wondering about how to bring our human relations ordinance in alignment with those protections," Piros de Carvalho said. "Currently, chapter three of our city code lays out job and housing protections against discrimination, but it does exclude the LGBTQ community. I don't know if that is something that needs to be done administratively through our attorney, or if the human relations commission needs to bring back language."

Moore said the Human Relations Commission is on top of the issue.

"Our meeting for tomorrow, we're going to be reviewing what the language is being shared at that level and how we can fit it into our local ordinances, Moore said. "Our anticipation is that we can insert it according to the protected classes space and use that there, but we're not sure how that will have to look."

The hope is that the council can see amended language soon.

"If we can get to that this Wednesday and have that discussion and then, depending on what we might need to do back and forth with Paul, I hope that we can do it pretty quickly."

Piros de Carvalho said in her attempt to read the decision, it was focused on the employment piece. It isn't clear how a rewrite would work with regard to housing at this point. The next meeting of the Human Relations Commission is Wednesday at 4 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943691499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;In light of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision this week that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act gives employment protections to LGBTQ people on the basis of sex, Hutchinson Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho asked City of Hutchinson Human Relations Officer Datjeda Moore where city policy should go next to clarify compliance with the decision."I also am wondering about how to bring our human relations ordinance in alignment with those protections," Piros de Carvalho said. "Currently, chapter three of our city code lays out job and housing protections against discrimination, but it does exclude the LGBTQ community. I don't know if that is something that needs to be done administratively through our attorney, or if the human relations commission needs to bring back language."Moore said the Human Relations Commission is on top of the issue."Our meeting for tomorrow, we're going to be reviewing what the language is being shared at that level and how we can fit it into our local ordinances, Moore said. "Our anticipation is that we can insert it according to the protected classes space and use that there, but we're not sure how that will have to look."The hope is that the council can see amended language soon."If we can get to that this Wednesday and have that discussion and then, depending on what we might need to do back and forth with Paul, I hope that we can do it pretty quickly."Piros de Carvalho said in her attempt to read the decision, it was focused on the employment piece. It isn't clear how a rewrite would work with regard to housing at this point. The next meeting of the Human Relations Commission is Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Supreme Court decision to have city impact


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The speed of the special session of the Legislature this spring and the effects of COVID-19 on the regular session suggest that the Legislature could accomplish its work in less time, but Ed Berger doesn't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater.

"I think we could do it in fewer days," State Senator Ed Berger said. "This was a relatively short legislative session. We adjourned early because of the COVID-19 epidemic. That was on March 19th and didn't come back then until May. I think we could get things done a little quicker."

Berger is still a fan of the legislative process, though, even though most of that was worked around in the special session in the interest of speed.

"You have to have a process that allows complete vetting of legislation," Berger said. "I think that's really an important component of the process. We have to have input from all sides. We have to hear all arguments. Lots of times, even with this thorough vetting process that we have, there are unintended consequences of legislation."

The hope is that the normal deliberative process helps avoid some of those consequences.

"The real work happens in the committee environment," Berger said. "A legislator relies a lot on what happens in those committees. We take that committee recommendation and we challenge that committee with questions from the floor and then come to some kind of resolution."

That's not really how the special session worked. Legislative leadership and the Governor made a deal in advance and pushed it through the process without amendments. Such action makes it difficult for legislators that are not in leadership to get anything they want looked at.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579184461670.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The speed of the special session of the Legislature this spring and the effects of COVID-19 on the regular session suggest that the Legislature could accomplish its work in less time, but Ed Berger doesn't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater."I think we could do it in fewer days," State Senator Ed Berger said. "This was a relatively short legislative session. We adjourned early because of the COVID-19 epidemic. That was on March 19th and didn't come back then until May. I think we could get things done a little quicker."Berger is still a fan of the legislative process, though, even though most of that was worked around in the special session in the interest of speed."You have to have a process that allows complete vetting of legislation," Berger said. "I think that's really an important component of the process. We have to have input from all sides. We have to hear all arguments. Lots of times, even with this thorough vetting process that we have, there are unintended consequences of legislation."The hope is that the normal deliberative process helps avoid some of those consequences."The real work happens in the committee environment," Berger said. "A legislator relies a lot on what happens in those committees. We take that committee recommendation and we challenge that committee with questions from the floor and then come to some kind of resolution."That's not really how the special session worked. Legislative leadership and the Governor made a deal in advance and pushed it through the process without amendments. Such action makes it difficult for legislators that are not in leadership to get anything they want looked at.

In spite of special session speed, Berger says process is important


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over 200 Reno County drivers were pulled over as part of the Click-It or Ticket campaign in May.

The Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Tuesday that 223 seat belt violations were written to adults, one child restraint violation for a child between 4 and 13 years old, eight driver's license violations, one insurance violation and a DUI arrest.

The campaign from KDOT via the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration paid for 65 hours of enforcement between May 18th and 31st.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over 200 Reno County drivers were pulled over as part of the Click-It or Ticket campaign in May.The Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Tuesday that 223 seat belt violations were written to adults, one child restraint violation for a child between 4 and 13 years old, eight driver's license violations, one insurance violation and a DUI arrest.The campaign from KDOT via the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration paid for 65 hours of enforcement between May 18th and 31st.

Over 200 citations written during seatbelt campaign in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuations for the county increased over last year by a small margin.

The 2020 county total assessed value came in at $615,855,000. The city of Hutchinson assessed valuation for 2020 is $313,571,000. The increase in funding for Hutchinson will be around $313,000 while the increase for the county translates to about $800,000 at the current mill levy for both entities.

How that helps the city and county in the next budget cycle remains uncertain. County Administrator Randy Partington says they are still looking at between $1 million and $2 million in cuts for 2021.

Partington says they will hear budget presentations for the county department heads on June 25 and June 26.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592063945477.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuations for the county increased over last year by a small margin.The 2020 county total assessed value came in at $615,855,000. The city of Hutchinson assessed valuation for 2020 is $313,571,000. The increase in funding for Hutchinson will be around $313,000 while the increase for the county translates to about $800,000 at the current mill levy for both entities.How that helps the city and county in the next budget cycle remains uncertain. County Administrator Randy Partington says they are still looking at between $1 million and $2 million in cuts for 2021.Partington says they will hear budget presentations for the county department heads on June 25 and June 26.&nbsp;