TOPEKA, Kan. — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas Rural Development Director Christy Davis announced Friday that USDA will help farmers and small businesses expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Today, Rural Development is investing $1,789,170 in grants that will support 15 clean energy projects across Kansas.

“The USDA is partnering with people in rural Kansas to expand access to clean energy,” Davis said. “We are working hard, supporting our small businesses and farmers as they create jobs for their communities.”

A $178,348 grant will help purchase and install a 99 kilowatt solar array for B&amp;B Hydraulics Inc. of Hutchinson. The project is estimated to generate 156,168 kilowatt hours and replace 100 percent of the facility's annual energy usage.

A $177,486 grant will help purchase and install a 150 kilowatt solar array for Sales Data Inc., a computer software company in Hutchinson. The project is estimated to replace 216,823 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power 20 homes.

A $30,857 grant will help purchase and install a 25.53 kilowatt solar array for King Solar Inc. of Yoder. The project is estimated to generate 37,587 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power three homes.

A $31,344 grant will help purchase and install a 20 kilowatt solar array for Brentan Yost, a swine producer located near Newton. The project will produce 31,026 kilowatt hours and replace 85 percent of the facility's annual energy usage.

A $57,927 grant will help purchase and install a 42.1 kilowatt solar array for Edward Koehn, a poultry producer near Halstead. The project is estimated to produce 64,113 kilowatt hours annually, enough energy to power six homes.

A $37,477 grant will help purchase and install irrigation equipment for Schmidt Land LLC, a corn grower in Inman. The project is estimated to save 110,791 kilowatts per year, enough energy to power ten homes.

A $26,652 grant will help purchase and install irrigation equipment for Ruby Goering Trust, a corn farm in Inman. The project is estimated to save 123,249 kilowatt per year, enough energy to power 11 homes.

<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601160917468.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Department of AgricultureTOPEKA, Kan. — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas Rural Development Director Christy Davis announced Friday that USDA will help farmers and small businesses expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Today, Rural Development is investing $1,789,170 in grants that will support 15 clean energy projects across Kansas.“The USDA is partnering with people in rural Kansas to expand access to clean energy,” Davis said. “We are working hard, supporting our small businesses and farmers as they create jobs for their communities.”Hutch Post area projects include: A $178,348 grant will help purchase and install a 99 kilowatt solar array for B&amp;B Hydraulics Inc. of Hutchinson. The project is estimated to generate 156,168 kilowatt hours and replace 100 percent of the facility's annual energy usage.A $177,486 grant will help purchase and install a 150 kilowatt solar array for Sales Data Inc., a computer software company in Hutchinson. The project is estimated to replace 216,823 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power 20 homes.A $30,857 grant will help purchase and install a 25.53 kilowatt solar array for King Solar Inc. of Yoder. The project is estimated to generate 37,587 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power three homes.A $31,344 grant will help purchase and install a 20 kilowatt solar array for Brentan Yost, a swine producer located near Newton. The project will produce 31,026 kilowatt hours and replace 85 percent of the facility's annual energy usage.A $57,927 grant will help purchase and install a 42.1 kilowatt solar array for Edward Koehn, a poultry producer near Halstead. The project is estimated to produce 64,113 kilowatt hours annually, enough energy to power six homes.A $37,477 grant will help purchase and install irrigation equipment for Schmidt Land LLC, a corn grower in Inman. The project is estimated to save 110,791 kilowatts per year, enough energy to power ten homes.A $26,652 grant will help purchase and install irrigation equipment for Ruby Goering Trust, a corn farm in Inman. The project is estimated to save 123,249 kilowatt per year, enough energy to power 11 homes.<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Rural Development issues REAP grants

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Fire’s own Captain Troy Mueller has been asked to assist with the Rocky Mountain Incident Command Team Three as wildfires continue to kick off and spread throughout the western United States. 

Captain Mueller is being mobilized to the Gwen fire in Idaho. The team will also be asked to manage the River fire. Both fires are burning on the Nez Perce Reservation in north central Idaho. Numerous evacuation orders have been given to impacted communities. 

Yesterday alone, 110 new fires have started out west. Stay safe!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722004680003.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Fire Captain Troy Mueller" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Fire Captain Troy Mueller</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Fire DepartmentHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Fire’s own Captain Troy Mueller has been asked to assist with the Rocky Mountain Incident Command Team Three as wildfires continue to kick off and spread throughout the western United States. Captain Mueller is being mobilized to the Gwen fire in Idaho. The team will also be asked to manage the River fire. Both fires are burning on the Nez Perce Reservation in north central Idaho. Numerous evacuation orders have been given to impacted communities. Yesterday alone, 110 new fires have started out west. Stay safe!<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hutchinson Fire Captain deployed to wildfire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School proudly announces that all candidates of its prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program have successfully received their diplomas. 

This remarkable achievement underscores the dedication, hard work, and academic excellence of the students, faculty, and staff involved in the program. 

Mira McCue is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) graduate. She successfully tested in six IB courses, wrote an extended essay, and completed the elements for CAS. 

The graduates of the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) are Caden Hendrix, Aiden Kimball, David Rogers, Lisa Selgrade, Victoria Severud, Ariana Shankle, and Ella Yoder. 

These graduates successfully completed at least two IB courses while focusing on their selected career pathways, completing a reflective project, and planning a service-learning activity. 

All these students' accomplishments highlight their commitment to academic rigor and global-mindedness exemplifying the core values of the International Baccalaureate. Each student's success is a testament to their perseverance and the support of our dedicated faculty. 

The IB program at Hutchinson High School continues to provide students with a comprehensive education that fosters critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and respect. 

The 100% diploma achievement rate highlights the program's effectiveness in preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. 

Congratulations to all our IB graduates on this outstanding accomplishment. Hutchinson High School celebrates their success and looks forward to their continued achievements in the future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721947136835.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy- The Allagaroo" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy- The Allagaroo</figcaption>
 </figure>STACY GOSS Hutchinson USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School proudly announces that all candidates of its prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program have successfully received their diplomas. This remarkable achievement underscores the dedication, hard work, and academic excellence of the students, faculty, and staff involved in the program. Mira McCue is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) graduate. She successfully tested in six IB courses, wrote an extended essay, and completed the elements for CAS. The graduates of the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) are Caden Hendrix, Aiden Kimball, David Rogers, Lisa Selgrade, Victoria Severud, Ariana Shankle, and Ella Yoder. These graduates successfully completed at least two IB courses while focusing on their selected career pathways, completing a reflective project, and planning a service-learning activity. All these students' accomplishments highlight their commitment to academic rigor and global-mindedness exemplifying the core values of the International Baccalaureate. Each student's success is a testament to their perseverance and the support of our dedicated faculty. The IB program at Hutchinson High School continues to provide students with a comprehensive education that fosters critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and respect. The 100% diploma achievement rate highlights the program's effectiveness in preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. Congratulations to all our IB graduates on this outstanding accomplishment. Hutchinson High School celebrates their success and looks forward to their continued achievements in the future.<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

IB program with 100% graduation rate

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rotary Club of Hutchinson will hold its next meeting Monday, July 29 at noon at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the campus of Hutchinson Community College. The public is invited to attend.

Tyler Vance,&nbsp;Director of Community Support Services at Horizons Mental Health Center will speak to the Rotary Club of Hutchinson at their meeting on Monday.

Tyler attended Barclay College where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree.&nbsp; Tyler started his career at Horizons in the Same Day Access department as a case manager and is now the Director of the Community Support Services (CSS) department.&nbsp; CSS provides outpatient rehabilitation services to the adult population.&nbsp; CSS has a diverse staff group that provides everything from Case Management services, to Peer Support services, to Employment support, to Housing Support.

<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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721990958033.jpeg" alt="Tyler Vance Horizons" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Vance Horizons</figcaption>
 </figure>Rotary Club of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rotary Club of Hutchinson will hold its next meeting Monday, July 29 at noon at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the campus of Hutchinson Community College. The public is invited to attend.Tyler Vance,&nbsp;Director of Community Support Services at Horizons Mental Health Center will speak to the Rotary Club of Hutchinson at their meeting on Monday.Tyler attended Barclay College where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree.&nbsp; Tyler started his career at Horizons in the Same Day Access department as a case manager and is now the Director of the Community Support Services (CSS) department.&nbsp; CSS provides outpatient rehabilitation services to the adult population.&nbsp; CSS has a diverse staff group that provides everything from Case Management services, to Peer Support services, to Employment support, to Housing Support.<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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Vance to speak to Rotary Monday

BUHLER, Kan. — The City of Buhler wrote earlier this week that they are implementing water conservation steps. They are asking residents to curtail outdoor water usage, and as much as possible, avoid that usage before 10 a.m. and after 9 p.m.

Indoor water usage can be reduced through adjustments like shorter showers and full loads of laundry.

The hope is that will allow the city to avoid further water usage restrictions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690027423650.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of BuhlerBUHLER, Kan. — The City of Buhler wrote earlier this week that they are implementing water conservation steps. They are asking residents to curtail outdoor water usage, and as much as possible, avoid that usage before 10 a.m. and after 9 p.m.Indoor water usage can be reduced through adjustments like shorter showers and full loads of laundry.The hope is that will allow the city to avoid further water usage restrictions.<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

City of Buhler implementing water conservation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Join the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas and community members in Hutchinson for a night of bingo and community conversation about how critical Medicaid Expansion is for the Hutchinson area.

The event is from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Horizons Mental Health Center Community Room at 1600 North Lorraine.

The BINGO game is free for all ages and one participant will win a Stanley water tumbler.

Register for your card <a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/hutchinson-bingo/">online</a>.

<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; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709312952333.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance for a Healthy KansasHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Join the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas and community members in Hutchinson for a night of bingo and community conversation about how critical Medicaid Expansion is for the Hutchinson area.The event is from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Horizons Mental Health Center Community Room at 1600 North Lorraine.The BINGO game is free for all ages and one participant will win a Stanley water tumbler.Register for your card <a href="https://expandkancare.com/event/hutchinson-bingo/">online</a>.<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; &nbsp;

Bingo and Medicaid Expansion event Aug. 21

iNMAN, Kan. — The Inman Community Foundation (ICF) is excited to announce that they will be taking applications for a competitive grants round from their Community Fund. The fund, started to support community organizations through granting, will have $3,000 in available funding. Applications will be accepted starting Aug. 5 and end on Sept. 13.

This grant process will be unique compared to other county grants opportunities, as we will be accepting applications from community groups, regardless of non-profit status.

“Funding from the Inman Community Foundation can help organizations and nonprofits make Inman a better place to live and call home.” Katie Sawyer, Board Chair for ICF said, “The Foundation’s goal is to support programs and initiatives that enhance the community, support residents and continue valuable services.”

Grant funding is made possible thanks to donations towards the Inman Community Fund endowment during their recent Match Weeks. In 2023 the Inman community raised over $140,000 towards the endowments of Inman non-profits.

While applications cannot be submitted until Aug. 5, a preview of the application can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/33bmbax6">https://tinyurl.com/33bmbax6</a>

Those groups that plan to apply that have not done so before, must first contact Betsy Davis, Director of Community Development for MCCF at (620) 245-9070 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Betsy@McPhersonFoundation.org">Betsy@McPhersonFoundation.org</a>.

ICF makes grants to nonprofit organizations and community groups in the Inman area with a focus in Arts; Basic Human Needs and Disaster Relief: Children and Youth; Community Development and Leadership; Conservation, Preservation, and Beautification; Education; the Elderly; and Health Care and Mental Health.

Three Categories ICF uses to define projects:

Program – this is the most common application type and should be used for requests regarding programming you intend to offer your clients; Equipment – this process should be used for requests regarding a piece of equipment or technology or other items that don’t change the physical building; and Capital – this process is generally for requests regarding updates to or for a new physical structure.)

<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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721947820458.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Inman Community Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Inman Community Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Inman Community FoundationiNMAN, Kan. — The Inman Community Foundation (ICF) is excited to announce that they will be taking applications for a competitive grants round from their Community Fund. The fund, started to support community organizations through granting, will have $3,000 in available funding. Applications will be accepted starting Aug. 5 and end on Sept. 13.This grant process will be unique compared to other county grants opportunities, as we will be accepting applications from community groups, regardless of non-profit status.“Funding from the Inman Community Foundation can help organizations and nonprofits make Inman a better place to live and call home.” Katie Sawyer, Board Chair for ICF said, “The Foundation’s goal is to support programs and initiatives that enhance the community, support residents and continue valuable services.”Grant funding is made possible thanks to donations towards the Inman Community Fund endowment during their recent Match Weeks. In 2023 the Inman community raised over $140,000 towards the endowments of Inman non-profits.While applications cannot be submitted until Aug. 5, a preview of the application can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/33bmbax6">https://tinyurl.com/33bmbax6</a>Those groups that plan to apply that have not done so before, must first contact Betsy Davis, Director of Community Development for MCCF at (620) 245-9070 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Betsy@McPhersonFoundation.org">Betsy@McPhersonFoundation.org</a>.ICF makes grants to nonprofit organizations and community groups in the Inman area with a focus in Arts; Basic Human Needs and Disaster Relief: Children and Youth; Community Development and Leadership; Conservation, Preservation, and Beautification; Education; the Elderly; and Health Care and Mental Health.Three Categories ICF uses to define projects:Program – this is the most common application type and should be used for requests regarding programming you intend to offer your clients; Equipment – this process should be used for requests regarding a piece of equipment or technology or other items that don’t change the physical building; and Capital – this process is generally for requests regarding updates to or for a new physical structure.)<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;&nbsp;

Inman Community Foundation grants round opens Aug. 5

HAVEN, Kan. — The City of Haven is seeking a&nbsp;dynamic real estate professional with a passion for turning groundbreaking projects into thriving communities.

The City of Haven is looking for partners as it develops Wildcat Landing.

Application to be considered can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://media.rainpos.com/3952/RFP_for_Realtor_Service.pdf">here</a>. All proposals are due by August 9, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635864518910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HavenHAVEN, Kan. — The City of Haven is seeking a&nbsp;dynamic real estate professional with a passion for turning groundbreaking projects into thriving communities.The City of Haven is looking for partners as it develops Wildcat Landing.About the Development:<ul>
 <li>Location: Prime real estate in&nbsp;Haven, Kansas</li><li>Project Type:&nbsp;Residential&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>What We’re Seeking:<ul>
 <li>Experienced realtors and brokerages to partner with us</li><li>A track record of success in similar developments</li><li>Creativity, market insight, and a commitment to excellence</li>
 </ul>Application to be considered can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://media.rainpos.com/3952/RFP_for_Realtor_Service.pdf">here</a>. All proposals are due by August 9, 2024.<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;&nbsp;

City of Haven issues RFP for realtor

Billowing clouds bringing summer showers are a welcome sight for sore eyes following a multi-year drought, but Kansas producers should also keep their eyes on their fields to monitor and control volunteer wheat. Doing so is essential to protecting next summer’s harvest as those sneaky plants harbor the wheat curl mites that carry yield-limiting diseases like Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV).&nbsp;

“Now’s the time to be vigilant about volunteer control,” said Kelsey Andersen Onofre, assistant professor of plant pathology at K-State's College of Agriculture. “The best opportunity we have to manage WSMV is by managing our volunteer wheat prior to planting. The situation this past season could lead to heightened risk in 2024-25.”

Onofre explained that a combination of meteorological conditions throughout the growing season led to increased WSMV pressure on the 2024 wheat crop.&nbsp;

“We had volunteer wheat last year because of crop failure due to drought and untimely hail prior to harvest. We even had cases where folks were grazing volunteer wheat because of the drought conditions,” she said. “Then we had good conditions for mite development and reproduction in the fall. All that led to a perfect storm for WSMV last year.”

“This year was a bad year for WSMV, not just in western Kansas, but across the state. We had very severe WSMV across the whole northern tier of counties in Kansas, even in the northeast corner - that’s atypical. In addition, we had higher than usual levels of Triticum mosaic (TriM) come through the K-State Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic.”

While K-State is still crunching the final yield loss estimates from WSMV for the 2024 harvest, the disease causes an average of $75 million in losses to Kansas wheat farmers every year - with the potential for more than 80 percent yield loss in heavily infected fields.&nbsp;

The virus is spread by the wheat curl mite, which feeds on wheat and other grasses. Wheat curl mites and the virus must have green host tissue to survive on throughout the summer after harvest. They most commonly reside on volunteer wheat that blew out the back of the combine or shattered grain from hailstorms that happened before harvest. The mites move from mature wheat to newly emerged wheat in the summer. Onofre noted there can also be sneaky scenarios where volunteer wheat emerges in double-cropped fields or cover crops.&nbsp;

Fields with WSMV infections last year should be particularly mindful of volunteer management through the summer. While WSMV is not treatable once fields are infected, the disease is preventable - and controlling volunteer wheat is a top priority to do so.&nbsp;

“Managing your volunteer is the absolute best management strategy,” Onofre said, adding that it is recommended that producers terminate volunteer wheat at least two weeks prior to planting wheat to allow enough time to kill all the wheat curl mites present in a field. Ideally, all fields within one to two miles are volunteer-free, but that can be hard to accomplish.&nbsp;

Producers also have the option to select varieties developed with built-in genetic resistance to WSMV - and the list of varieties available with this resistance grows with each year’s releases. However, Onofre cautioned that the genes that provide resistance are not perfect - they’re pressure sensitive, turn off at high temperatures and don’t work against other mite-carried diseases like Triticum mosaic (TriM).&nbsp;

“An uptick in disease emphasizes that you can’t rely on that genetic resistance alone,” she said. “While we do have options and varietal selection is really important, that very first priority has to be controlling that volunteer wheat.”&nbsp;

Onofre also reminded producers that the K-State Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic can test for WSMV and other wheat viruses to determine the presence of the virus – even as early as this fall. If a producer suspects they have a WSMV or TriM infection, they can work with their local extension office to submit samples to the lab.&nbsp;

Read the latest guidance from K-State Agronomy on WSMV and the importance of controlling volunteer wheat this year at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001pH45tnH_N2NJtW0c0vmM64pcg2IO73PhkJB5Ife3GXpj_6CFSrjYHBRUMm8Yzb8Y1bw2SsFDVeDPhksKlZIa_o8YsAKFmYFo5P2quYchyp5w8CMi-0OQRQ702dCWMgMRRjFC9LmFzq-4phgKgmYpO9Xnd5Bb1E_-&amp;c=f-hzcAuOVbY98ov2234nBvBowyITv9XDie-TYsL8I0BdFg45kWOV9A==&amp;ch=p-4lIxB-u91VJwpVqdlLnccFk0_Vzjl4C_gFsU9Jp0pTERdsYar7Yg==">https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatBillowing clouds bringing summer showers are a welcome sight for sore eyes following a multi-year drought, but Kansas producers should also keep their eyes on their fields to monitor and control volunteer wheat. Doing so is essential to protecting next summer’s harvest as those sneaky plants harbor the wheat curl mites that carry yield-limiting diseases like Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV).&nbsp;“Now’s the time to be vigilant about volunteer control,” said Kelsey Andersen Onofre, assistant professor of plant pathology at K-State's College of Agriculture. “The best opportunity we have to manage WSMV is by managing our volunteer wheat prior to planting. The situation this past season could lead to heightened risk in 2024-25.”Onofre explained that a combination of meteorological conditions throughout the growing season led to increased WSMV pressure on the 2024 wheat crop.&nbsp;“We had volunteer wheat last year because of crop failure due to drought and untimely hail prior to harvest. We even had cases where folks were grazing volunteer wheat because of the drought conditions,” she said. “Then we had good conditions for mite development and reproduction in the fall. All that led to a perfect storm for WSMV last year.”“This year was a bad year for WSMV, not just in western Kansas, but across the state. We had very severe WSMV across the whole northern tier of counties in Kansas, even in the northeast corner - that’s atypical. In addition, we had higher than usual levels of Triticum mosaic (TriM) come through the K-State Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic.”While K-State is still crunching the final yield loss estimates from WSMV for the 2024 harvest, the disease causes an average of $75 million in losses to Kansas wheat farmers every year - with the potential for more than 80 percent yield loss in heavily infected fields.&nbsp;The virus is spread by the wheat curl mite, which feeds on wheat and other grasses. Wheat curl mites and the virus must have green host tissue to survive on throughout the summer after harvest. They most commonly reside on volunteer wheat that blew out the back of the combine or shattered grain from hailstorms that happened before harvest. The mites move from mature wheat to newly emerged wheat in the summer. Onofre noted there can also be sneaky scenarios where volunteer wheat emerges in double-cropped fields or cover crops.&nbsp;Fields with WSMV infections last year should be particularly mindful of volunteer management through the summer. While WSMV is not treatable once fields are infected, the disease is preventable - and controlling volunteer wheat is a top priority to do so.&nbsp;“Managing your volunteer is the absolute best management strategy,” Onofre said, adding that it is recommended that producers terminate volunteer wheat at least two weeks prior to planting wheat to allow enough time to kill all the wheat curl mites present in a field. Ideally, all fields within one to two miles are volunteer-free, but that can be hard to accomplish.&nbsp;Producers also have the option to select varieties developed with built-in genetic resistance to WSMV - and the list of varieties available with this resistance grows with each year’s releases. However, Onofre cautioned that the genes that provide resistance are not perfect - they’re pressure sensitive, turn off at high temperatures and don’t work against other mite-carried diseases like Triticum mosaic (TriM).&nbsp;“An uptick in disease emphasizes that you can’t rely on that genetic resistance alone,” she said. “While we do have options and varietal selection is really important, that very first priority has to be controlling that volunteer wheat.”&nbsp;Onofre also reminded producers that the K-State Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic can test for WSMV and other wheat viruses to determine the presence of the virus – even as early as this fall. If a producer suspects they have a WSMV or TriM infection, they can work with their local extension office to submit samples to the lab.&nbsp;Read the latest guidance from K-State Agronomy on WSMV and the importance of controlling volunteer wheat this year at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001pH45tnH_N2NJtW0c0vmM64pcg2IO73PhkJB5Ife3GXpj_6CFSrjYHBRUMm8Yzb8Y1bw2SsFDVeDPhksKlZIa_o8YsAKFmYFo5P2quYchyp5w8CMi-0OQRQ702dCWMgMRRjFC9LmFzq-4phgKgmYpO9Xnd5Bb1E_-&amp;c=f-hzcAuOVbY98ov2234nBvBowyITv9XDie-TYsL8I0BdFg45kWOV9A==&amp;ch=p-4lIxB-u91VJwpVqdlLnccFk0_Vzjl4C_gFsU9Jp0pTERdsYar7Yg==">https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/</a>.<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Wheat Scoop: Stop the Streak

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

7/26/2024 12:22 AM-Kristie	Ann Vinsonhaler-Direct Contempt; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body&nbsp;

7/25/2024 6:03 PM-Alicia	Larine Leroy-Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway; Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner&nbsp;

7/25/2024 4:10 PM-Andrew	William Avena-Probation Violation&nbsp;

7/25/2024 2:32 PM-Alexander	James Stephenson-Probation Violation&nbsp;

7/25/2024 1:41 PM-Brett	Paul Short-Interference with Law Enforcement; Falsely report a Misd crime intending to obstruct; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct&nbsp;

7/25/2024 12:44 PM-Miles	William Henning-Probation Violation

7/25/2024 10:21 AM-Christopher	Lee Martinez-Failure to Appear

7/25/2024 9:20 AM-Sienna	Rosemary Mendoza-Failure to Appear

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;7/26/2024 12:22 AM-Kristie	Ann Vinsonhaler-Direct Contempt; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body&nbsp;7/25/2024 6:03 PM-Alicia	Larine Leroy-Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway; Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner&nbsp;7/25/2024 4:10 PM-Andrew	William Avena-Probation Violation&nbsp;7/25/2024 2:32 PM-Alexander	James Stephenson-Probation Violation&nbsp;7/25/2024 1:41 PM-Brett	Paul Short-Interference with Law Enforcement; Falsely report a Misd crime intending to obstruct; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct&nbsp;7/25/2024 12:44 PM-Miles	William Henning-Probation Violation7/25/2024 10:21 AM-Christopher	Lee Martinez-Failure to Appear7/25/2024 9:20 AM-Sienna	Rosemary Mendoza-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs quest to repeating as NBC World Series champions is off to a good start, as the Monarchs defeated TPA Texas, 5-2, on Thursday evening.

The Monarchs are now 28-7 overall and have now won seven straight games at the NBC World Series, dating back to last season. Hutchinson will play Tulsa Sandlot in the second game of pool play on Saturday night at midnight, as part of Baseball 'Round the Clock.

Hutchinson opened the scoring with an RBI single from Jarrett Flaggert in the first inning. Blake Bradford then reached on an error, scoring Will Edmunson to make it 2-0. Camden Johnson kept the scoring going with a 2-run single to left field to put the Monarchs in front, 4-0.

The Monarchs made it 5-0 with an RBI single from newcomer, Reese Ratchford, in the third inning.

TPA Texas scored a run in the fifth and one more in the sixth inning.

Ian Regal earned the win on the mound for the Monarchs, going 5 1/3 innings. Carson Cornelius tossed 2 2/3 innings of relief, while Reese Usselman closed the game out in the ninth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721959047107.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs quest to repeating as NBC World Series champions is off to a good start, as the Monarchs defeated TPA Texas, 5-2, on Thursday evening.The Monarchs are now 28-7 overall and have now won seven straight games at the NBC World Series, dating back to last season. Hutchinson will play Tulsa Sandlot in the second game of pool play on Saturday night at midnight, as part of Baseball 'Round the Clock.Hutchinson opened the scoring with an RBI single from Jarrett Flaggert in the first inning. Blake Bradford then reached on an error, scoring Will Edmunson to make it 2-0. Camden Johnson kept the scoring going with a 2-run single to left field to put the Monarchs in front, 4-0.The Monarchs made it 5-0 with an RBI single from newcomer, Reese Ratchford, in the third inning.TPA Texas scored a run in the fifth and one more in the sixth inning.Ian Regal earned the win on the mound for the Monarchs, going 5 1/3 innings. Carson Cornelius tossed 2 2/3 innings of relief, while Reese Usselman closed the game out in the ninth.

⚾ Monarchs open NBC World Series play with win

PRATT COUNTY—A Great Bend woman was injured in an accident just after 1 p.m. Thursday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Freightliner semi driven by James Griffith, 72, Iuka, was southbound on U.S. 281 just south of McClellan Street in Iuka.

The semi rear-ended a 2016 Chevy Equinox driven by Guy&nbsp;Knipe, 71, Great Bend, who was attempting&nbsp;to turn onto Summer Street

EMS transported a passenger in the SUV identified as Dorothy&nbsp;Piland, 91, Great Bend to the hospital in Pratt. Knipe had a minor injury. He and Griffith were not transported for treatment. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658863845669.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY—A Great Bend woman was injured in an accident just after 1 p.m. Thursday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Freightliner semi driven by James Griffith, 72, Iuka, was southbound on U.S. 281 just south of McClellan Street in Iuka.The semi rear-ended a 2016 Chevy Equinox driven by Guy&nbsp;Knipe, 71, Great Bend, who was attempting&nbsp;to turn onto Summer StreetEMS transported a passenger in the SUV identified as Dorothy&nbsp;Piland, 91, Great Bend to the hospital in Pratt. Knipe had a minor injury. He and Griffith were not transported for treatment. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kan. woman hospitalized after semi rear-ends an SUV

LYONS, Kan. — This morning Lyons, Little River, and Sterling fire departments responded to 117 E. Washington for a house fire. 

 Upon arrival, smoke was found pushing out thru the roof vents.  Entry was made and no one was found during the primary and later secondary searches of the residence. 

 The fire started in the basement and ran up the walls into the attic.  The cause was determined  to be electrical in nature in the basement.  No injuries were reported and estimated losses are $60,000 to the structure and $30,000 to the contents. 

 Both the upstairs and downstairs were occupied by renters.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">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/2024/6/1719311029575.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lyons Fire DepartmentLYONS, Kan. — This morning Lyons, Little River, and Sterling fire departments responded to 117 E. Washington for a house fire. Upon arrival, smoke was found pushing out thru the roof vents. Entry was made and no one was found during the primary and later secondary searches of the residence. The fire started in the basement and ran up the walls into the attic. The cause was determined to be electrical in nature in the basement. No injuries were reported and estimated losses are $60,000 to the structure and $30,000 to the contents. Both the upstairs and downstairs were occupied by renters.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Electrical fire Thursday in Lyons

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs begin play at the 90th NBC World Series this evening against TPA Texas at 6 p.m. The game will be played at Eck Stadium on the campus of Wichita State University.

The Monarchs are the defending NBC World Series champions after defeating the Santa Barbara Foresters last August.

Hutchinson enters NBC World Series pool play with a 27-7 record this summer, including a 14-2 mark in the second half of the Jayhawk Collegiate League. The Monarchs won the second half title after the Haysville Aviators won the first half.

The Monarchs will continue pool play at midnight on Saturday night/Sunday morning against Tulsa Sandlot, and then will conclude pool play on Monday evening at 6 p.m. against the Seattle Cheney Studs.

To find more information regarding the NBC World Series, click <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721407331249.png" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs begin play at the 90th NBC World Series this evening against TPA Texas at 6 p.m. The game will be played at Eck Stadium on the campus of Wichita State University.The Monarchs are the defending NBC World Series champions after defeating the Santa Barbara Foresters last August.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z_0xFRTwwp8?si=WpC1VZyI6pP8g5tU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Hutchinson enters NBC World Series pool play with a 27-7 record this summer, including a 14-2 mark in the second half of the Jayhawk Collegiate League. The Monarchs won the second half title after the Haysville Aviators won the first half.The Monarchs will continue pool play at midnight on Saturday night/Sunday morning against Tulsa Sandlot, and then will conclude pool play on Monday evening at 6 p.m. against the Seattle Cheney Studs.To find more information regarding the NBC World Series, click <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">here</a>.&nbsp;

🎥⚾ WATCH: Monarchs open NBC World Series with TPA Texas

NICKERSON, Kan. — Take the family out to Nickerson for some fun at the Nickerson Klear Nearly Days, July 26-28, 2024!

Dinner, Movie, Teen Dance, Medallion Hunt, Bingo

Breakfast, Food Vendors, Mud Volleyball, Medallion Hunt, Dance, Games, Inflatables, Booths, Dance

3rd Annual 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk for Mental Health Awareness in Remembrance of Jim Goble - 8:00 am, Registration at 7:45 am.  A $15 donation is greatly appreciated.

Show and Shine Car Show - Registration by the Library at 11:00 a.m., Show starts at 11:30 a.m. and goes until 2:00 p.m. on Main Street.  $10 donation

Nickerson Wrestling 2nd Annual Poker Run - Registration starts at 9:00 a.m.  First bike out at 10:30 a.m. - Last bike out at 12:30 p.m. 

 Raffle prizes to follow at end of Poker Run starting at 6:00 p.m.  Event starts and finishes at Weber Park.

Find out more at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nickersonCC">Nickerson Chamber Facebook Page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721922972202.jpeg" alt="Klear Nearly 2024" />
 <figcaption>Klear Nearly 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>Nickerson Chamber of CommerceNICKERSON, Kan. — Take the family out to Nickerson for some fun at the Nickerson Klear Nearly Days, July 26-28, 2024!Some of the events include:Friday, July 26Dinner, Movie, Teen Dance, Medallion Hunt, BingoSaturday, July 27Breakfast, Food Vendors, Mud Volleyball, Medallion Hunt, Dance, Games, Inflatables, Booths, Dance3rd Annual 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk for Mental Health Awareness in Remembrance of Jim Goble - 8:00 am, Registration at 7:45 am. A $15 donation is greatly appreciated.Show and Shine Car Show - Registration by the Library at 11:00 a.m., Show starts at 11:30 a.m. and goes until 2:00 p.m. on Main Street. $10 donationSunday, July 28Nickerson Wrestling 2nd Annual Poker Run - Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. First bike out at 10:30 a.m. - Last bike out at 12:30 p.m. Raffle prizes to follow at end of Poker Run starting at 6:00 p.m. Event starts and finishes at Weber Park.ChurchFind out more at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nickersonCC">Nickerson Chamber Facebook Page</a>.<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Klear Nearly Days in Nickerson this weekend

Nick Gosnell: All right so let's just talk a little bit about you. What's the experience that you've had thus far in your life and why did you decide to run for office? 

Ken Nisly: Well thanks for asking. Some of my experience has been I've been on the city council at the town of Langdon which is out in western Reno County and then when we moved back over into the Haven USD 312 I've been on that for my second term now on the board there serving there and then being involved with community both school and fire department EMS there's things that I think that have been forgotten out in the western part of our county and I was encouraged to run by others to go represent some of those needs that we have out in the western part.

Gosnell: All right so what is your top priority? There's obviously sometimes a lot of things that happen that the folks here in the city of Hutchinson may say hey wait a second there's you know 40,000 of us and just a couple of thousands and folks in the western part of the county but at the same time county government in particular has to make sure that everybody's taken care of so what's your top priority? 

Nisly: One of the top priorities would be roads. We have a bunch of paved roads out there we got a lot of back roads if you want to call them that that have deteriorated that have not had any kind of attention in many many years. I don't know how many years but it's been a long time since they've been given attention. I do want to go and commend the county they usually come out once or twice a year and mow the ditches for us that is very much appreciated but we just like to see some of our roads maintained a little better. 

Gosnell: All right so budgeting is one of the chief functions of the county commission these days and so what's one thing that maybe you think the county should spend less money on than what they do right now? 

Nisly: That's a sort of a tough question at times because there's things that are important but then you got to also go and look at what else is important. You're asking what should they spend less on? I have not gone and personally looked at the budget individually but maybe some of the things that you could probably spend less on is some of the money that they give to other organizations. They're good organizations don't get me wrong but like United Way and things like that where I think that they should probably maybe scale back on a little bit and focus more on what is actually county responsibility. 

Gosnell: Okay so what are some of those county responsibilities that you say aim your resources maybe differently or spend more money or whatever it might be? 

Nisly: Okay the county has a responsibility of roads, fire, EMS and well out there it's the sheriff's office so those are the basic services that need to be provided for everyone in the county equally not just only certain areas. Well there's nobody out there so we don't worry about it. Yes there are people out there and at times it's very frustrating when we don't get the response time like you would if you were living closer to Hutchinson. 

Gosnell: That's part of why the as an example Reno County EMS has an EMS station out in Arlington is in an effort to kind of reduce that. I know that actually if you were watching the county commission meeting yesterday there was a brief addressing of that issue saying hey even with some of that work we still need to try to figure out a way to whatever degree we can while still being fiscally responsible even out some of these response times. Would you agree with that generally? 

Gosnell: Okay now what do you see the role of the county administrator as being for Reno County? Well it's sort of like the school where you have the superintendent that's running the day-to-day operation and the board gives direction and I think that's what the county commission needs to be doing is giving the administrator the direction that he needs to be going in. 

Gosnell: I'll bet I probably know your answer to this but we're going to find out anyway. There were meetings this week in Arlington and Pretty Prairie about just letting people know what zoning might look like if it were to happen in the western part of the county. Talk to us a little bit about what you think about that idea and what what maybe the there is to to know about zoning. Is it something that you believe the people in the western part of the county wants or don't want or how does that work? 

Nisly: That could be a double-edged sword about zoning but when I heard what the people were wanting they were saying they would like to have less government but yet they would like to have some kind of oversight on the mega farms and I think it was brought up in Arlington like the wind and the solar and like the some of the big livestock farms they would like to have some regulation on that but as far as personal farm and if somebody wanted to start a business out of their shed they would like to have less government involvement in that.

Gosnell: Okay so what what the county did with wind was they went ahead and did technically it's a zoning overlay so really speaking technically the entire county is zoned in this area only but they basically said we're just not going to have wind anyplace. Is that what it looks like folks want for solar or or what are you hearing in that regard? 

Nisly: Yes that's what I'm hearing right now is they would prefer not having the big mega farms come in and take up the farmland and things like that. 

Gosnell: Okay for you if you get a chance to be a part of the county commission what is something that you say you know I haven't heard this idea at the county commission level at least that I know of this is something I want to bring to the table.

Gosnell: Something new that you haven't heard before that you that you'd want to do as a county commissioner. 

Nisly: Well that's sort of interesting question because there's be a lot of things that I think I could probably bring but would it be feasible? Probably not but yes it would be real nice to have every road out in the county paved but that's not even realistic but to try to bring something in that I would think would be a benefit to my district would be like RCAT that have a little bit more frequent coming out instead of calling in.&nbsp; Something like that I could see that be more beneficial for the especially for the elderly who can't get out and drive like they used to provide more services for them for those people they're out in that area to help them out. 

Gosnell: Sure and it's unfortunate but it seems like these days and I feel like I should probably knock on wood when I'm saying this Ken but when we have vehicle accidents in the county or in the city most of the time unless somebody's breaking a traffic law it has to do with an older driver having a medical issue and so having that access to RCAT and things like that may help a little bit with that I would think.

Nisly: Well I would think so too but you know like you're saying knock on wood we can never tell until we you know pursue some of that then hopefully we can reduce some of that. 

Gosnell: All right and as far as the sheriff's office is concerned my father-in-law was a sheriff's officer for 20 years on the Reno County Sheriff's Office and back in his day there were only I don't know I think it was like four or five officers for the entire county so if something happened out in the western part of the county it would take a while to get out there and then basically there wasn't a whole lot of folks around for a while in the rest of the county. How would you propose making sure that the sheriff's office can can staff adequately for having an emergency happen in the part of the county that's really solely their responsibility while at the same time not spending too much money for those relatively quiet periods in the county as well? 

Nisly: I would like to see it more like what we have it zoned now for you know like for us as commissioners having somebody assigned out there and then just roam the roads. Now I know that in the middle of the night I'll be right blunt about it out in western Reno County it is desolate there's nothing happening out there. I don't mind seeing them maybe slip in more toward the the core of the county because when they're out there they're out there by themselves and it's just there's nothing else out there except them and the deer and I wouldn't mind if they would slip in you know a little closer that way they could respond to other areas should they need but I think we should have people assigned to that area that they should be out there patrolling actively.

<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/2024/7/1721917722208.jpeg" alt="Ken Nisly" />
 <figcaption>Ken Nisly</figcaption>
 </figure>Nick Gosnell: Good morning Ken. Ken Nisly: Good morning.Nick Gosnell: All right so let's just talk a little bit about you. What's the experience that you've had thus far in your life and why did you decide to run for office? Ken Nisly: Well thanks for asking. Some of my experience has been I've been on the city council at the town of Langdon which is out in western Reno County and then when we moved back over into the Haven USD 312 I've been on that for my second term now on the board there serving there and then being involved with community both school and fire department EMS there's things that I think that have been forgotten out in the western part of our county and I was encouraged to run by others to go represent some of those needs that we have out in the western part.Gosnell: All right so what is your top priority? There's obviously sometimes a lot of things that happen that the folks here in the city of Hutchinson may say hey wait a second there's you know 40,000 of us and just a couple of thousands and folks in the western part of the county but at the same time county government in particular has to make sure that everybody's taken care of so what's your top priority? Nisly: One of the top priorities would be roads. We have a bunch of paved roads out there we got a lot of back roads if you want to call them that that have deteriorated that have not had any kind of attention in many many years. I don't know how many years but it's been a long time since they've been given attention. I do want to go and commend the county they usually come out once or twice a year and mow the ditches for us that is very much appreciated but we just like to see some of our roads maintained a little better. Gosnell: All right so budgeting is one of the chief functions of the county commission these days and so what's one thing that maybe you think the county should spend less money on than what they do right now? Nisly: That's a sort of a tough question at times because there's things that are important but then you got to also go and look at what else is important. You're asking what should they spend less on? I have not gone and personally looked at the budget individually but maybe some of the things that you could probably spend less on is some of the money that they give to other organizations. They're good organizations don't get me wrong but like United Way and things like that where I think that they should probably maybe scale back on a little bit and focus more on what is actually county responsibility. Gosnell: Okay so what are some of those county responsibilities that you say aim your resources maybe differently or spend more money or whatever it might be? Nisly: Okay the county has a responsibility of roads, fire, EMS and well out there it's the sheriff's office so those are the basic services that need to be provided for everyone in the county equally not just only certain areas. Well there's nobody out there so we don't worry about it. Yes there are people out there and at times it's very frustrating when we don't get the response time like you would if you were living closer to Hutchinson. Gosnell: That's part of why the as an example Reno County EMS has an EMS station out in Arlington is in an effort to kind of reduce that. I know that actually if you were watching the county commission meeting yesterday there was a brief addressing of that issue saying hey even with some of that work we still need to try to figure out a way to whatever degree we can while still being fiscally responsible even out some of these response times. Would you agree with that generally? Nisly: Yes. Gosnell: Okay now what do you see the role of the county administrator as being for Reno County? Well it's sort of like the school where you have the superintendent that's running the day-to-day operation and the board gives direction and I think that's what the county commission needs to be doing is giving the administrator the direction that he needs to be going in. Gosnell: I'll bet I probably know your answer to this but we're going to find out anyway. There were meetings this week in Arlington and Pretty Prairie about just letting people know what zoning might look like if it were to happen in the western part of the county. Talk to us a little bit about what you think about that idea and what what maybe the there is to to know about zoning. Is it something that you believe the people in the western part of the county wants or don't want or how does that work? Nisly: That could be a double-edged sword about zoning but when I heard what the people were wanting they were saying they would like to have less government but yet they would like to have some kind of oversight on the mega farms and I think it was brought up in Arlington like the wind and the solar and like the some of the big livestock farms they would like to have some regulation on that but as far as personal farm and if somebody wanted to start a business out of their shed they would like to have less government involvement in that.Gosnell: Okay so what what the county did with wind was they went ahead and did technically it's a zoning overlay so really speaking technically the entire county is zoned in this area only but they basically said we're just not going to have wind anyplace. Is that what it looks like folks want for solar or or what are you hearing in that regard? Nisly: Yes that's what I'm hearing right now is they would prefer not having the big mega farms come in and take up the farmland and things like that. Gosnell: Okay for you if you get a chance to be a part of the county commission what is something that you say you know I haven't heard this idea at the county commission level at least that I know of this is something I want to bring to the table.Nisly: You're asking what I would do? Gosnell: Something new that you haven't heard before that you that you'd want to do as a county commissioner. Nisly: Well that's sort of interesting question because there's be a lot of things that I think I could probably bring but would it be feasible? Probably not but yes it would be real nice to have every road out in the county paved but that's not even realistic but to try to bring something in that I would think would be a benefit to my district would be like RCAT that have a little bit more frequent coming out instead of calling in.&nbsp; Something like that I could see that be more beneficial for the especially for the elderly who can't get out and drive like they used to provide more services for them for those people they're out in that area to help them out. Gosnell: Sure and it's unfortunate but it seems like these days and I feel like I should probably knock on wood when I'm saying this Ken but when we have vehicle accidents in the county or in the city most of the time unless somebody's breaking a traffic law it has to do with an older driver having a medical issue and so having that access to RCAT and things like that may help a little bit with that I would think.Nisly: Well I would think so too but you know like you're saying knock on wood we can never tell until we you know pursue some of that then hopefully we can reduce some of that. Gosnell: All right and as far as the sheriff's office is concerned my father-in-law was a sheriff's officer for 20 years on the Reno County Sheriff's Office and back in his day there were only I don't know I think it was like four or five officers for the entire county so if something happened out in the western part of the county it would take a while to get out there and then basically there wasn't a whole lot of folks around for a while in the rest of the county. How would you propose making sure that the sheriff's office can can staff adequately for having an emergency happen in the part of the county that's really solely their responsibility while at the same time not spending too much money for those relatively quiet periods in the county as well? Nisly: I would like to see it more like what we have it zoned now for you know like for us as commissioners having somebody assigned out there and then just roam the roads. Now I know that in the middle of the night I'll be right blunt about it out in western Reno County it is desolate there's nothing happening out there. I don't mind seeing them maybe slip in more toward the the core of the county because when they're out there they're out there by themselves and it's just there's nothing else out there except them and the deer and I wouldn't mind if they would slip in you know a little closer that way they could respond to other areas should they need but I think we should have people assigned to that area that they should be out there patrolling actively.<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;

Transcript: Ken Nisly

Nick Gosnell:&nbsp;Ron, good morning.&nbsp;

Ron Hirst: Morning, Nick, another nice morning to start for a typical July day
in Kansas.

Nick Gosnell: It is and at least
it's not quite as oppressively hot as what we're going to see about a
week from now. So Ron talk a little bit about your experience and
just what what you feel like has happened in the county commission
since you chose to serve.

Ron Hirst: Well, I think we've
done a lot of looking at budgets and looking at how we can provide
least cost needed services. I believe that we have had just for
instance, an opportunity to visit with people and find out what they
really want and what their needs are and a chance to get together and
have good conversation about where Reno County needs to head with
regard to economic development as well as you know, our purpose here
is to provide the welfare and safety of citizens.

Gosnell: All right, so what's
your top priority, should you be re-elected to another term?

Hirst: Well, I think to
continue going out in the county and visiting the city councils, I
think we need to look at how we can grow economically and feasibly
grow. Reno County, Hutchinson, Reno County. We need to look at the
opportunities and challenges that are out there and create some new
ways to get things done because some of the things we've done 20
years ago just aren't, they won't happen today as you, we can notice.

Gosnell: And so talk about
those challenges, I guess first because I asked these questions of
both of the opponents and they didn't really because they are not on
the commission. It was a bit harder for them to answer, but I'll ask
it of you as well. What's one thing? Maybe the county should spend a
little less money on than they have in previous years?

Hirst: I think that's an
overall picture rather than just picking and choosing what we are. I
believe we need to look at thoroughly look and review the budgets
that the administrator provides us and that the department heads have
worked with them to provide. Maybe we could look at extending and we
have a really good automotive department that repairs and, fixes new
equipment to be ready for service such as the Sheriff's Department. So I think we need
to look at, at, we could possibly extend and we are starting to do
that now extend the life of our, of our pool of, of vehicles maybe
one more year, but they will have to look at trade in value and where
they go.

Gosnell: All right. And what
about different priorities that the county maybe should spend a
little bit more on whether it's short term or long term.

Hirst: I have two areas
primarily that I think we need to focus on and one of them if, if I
had my choice and it didn't raise taxes, I would add 1 to 2 more
deputies for the night shift in Reno County because of some activity
that's going on in western Reno County and the other one I would
probably like to improve the budget a little bit or increase the
budget a little bit for a noxious weed control.

Gosnell: Ok. yeah, they had a
they have a specific noxious weed person in a lot of counties. Does
Reno County have that?

Hirst: I don't remember we
have a dedicated person that's qualified or two people that are
qualified to spray but you run into problems with wind, with rain and
also with the crops that are growing next to the ditches.

Gosnell: All right and what do
you see the role is of the county administrator?

Hirst: When it relates to
the county commission, we are kind of a direction and provide input. He manages and
administrates the day to day activities of the 18 different
departments that we have and that we can give ideas and, and, and
visit with the administrator on things that we see come up and go to
him first.

Gosnell: You know, it's
interesting, Ron because during the, during your last term, the
county councilor went from somebody that just worked for Reno County
to now Patrick Hoffman actually does the job for two different
counties. Have you seen any issues with that?

Hirst: No, I have not. I'm
pretty impressed with the county councilor. We have now he brings
some new thoughts here. Mr o'sullivan, our council was great. He knew
the county real well. Patrick Hoffman has fit in really well.

Gosnell: All right. You
actually brought some documentation with you, Ron. So I'm gonna go to
that now that I've pretty well gotten through my list of questions
and you were talking about property taxes. I don't, I I'm pretty
certain that it wasn't you that said it, but which of your colleagues
on the county commission? I can't remember the name. I can't remember
the name and, and they'll be yelling at their radio going, it was me, you
should give me credit. Well, I apologize. I can't recall which one of
them it was Ron, but one of them said the county gets a lot more of
the blame when it comes to property taxes. because the, because
they're the ones that send out the notices, even though the county's
portion of property tax, isn't by any means all of it.

Hirst: No, the county
portion of property tax. Let's just take, the city of Hutchinson, for
instance, we have a lot of Hutchinson viewers and, the percentage
that the county receives from ad valorem taxes, property taxes is about
just under 22%. about 46% give or take a percent or so is Hutch Juco
and USD 308 and about 24% it goes to the city itself and the rest
are other items. Hutch's library and
Hutch Rec and so forth. And if you look at the city of South Hutch,
it's just a little higher because their total mill levy is less than
it is in Hutchinson. And if you go out into different townships and
so forth, our percentage the county gets will be higher because of
the total mill levy and valuations.

Gosnell: And a reminder
of what valuation actually means, it means property value. So the
less property value that you have out in a given area, the the more
mills it takes to get the same amount of money.

Hirst: That is true because
there's really not much government can do, and I've said this
before a few times, but to provide the needed services, you either as
inflation eats into all of us, including our home budgets, you either
have to decrease the services or decrease what you're doing at home.
You have to increase your revenue or you have to increase your tax
base. And that's the, that's the method that is the most sound to me
is to increase our tax base.

Gosnell: Right. And that's
economic development, which I know that's been important to you as
we've gone across as well. And so that's where the county and the
chamber and the city of Hutchinson and the city of South Hutch,
they're all trying to come together on this industrial Park proposal
south of South Hutchinson. And I know that you guys are continuing to
have conversations about which ways which pieces work to try to make
this all happen to increase that tax base.

Hirst: That is true. And,
you know, we also have a lot of other things just besides that future
development down the industrial development, a housing task force
going on right now and some, some new ideas with regard to increase
the housing so that so that we'll be ready when something comes
because there's a lot of houses out there that are available. They may
be a little bit obsolescent with regarding to our younger generation.
But we we are in the process of doing a housing assessment for the
whole county.

Gosnell: Well, and while
you're in the middle of that interfaith housing came and reported to
you guys about how the ARPA funds they had have been used to do some
rehabilitation across the county.

Hirst: That's true. And
let's look at ARPA funds for a minute. Those didn't come out of any
local tax dollars as far as our budget is concerned and tax levy is
concerned, they were sent down from the federal government and I know
we all pay in federal income tax. So we did pay a part of that, but
those were not dependent upon our local. And we, and we had a quite a
community foundation as well as others were involved in, and getting
input from all over the county. And two, I hope that
those out in the rural cities will, will be involved in and take time
to be involved in, in the direction we're going. 

Gosnell: The meetings that
took place this week in Arlington and Pretty Prairie with regard to,
the potential of zoning and what they heard on solar and all of that, did you get to go to
those?

Gosnell:Ok, so how did they
go in your opinion?

Hirst: My opinion is they
went well. That's one of the things that I think we need to probably do more of and that's get out in the county and have some meetings,
although we've done that before and maybe had a half a dozen people show up. This case is we had 100 who 50 to 75 show up at the last
two. And we heard, I, I can only speak for myself, but I think all
three of the commissioners that were in attendance heard very, very
straightforward that zoning is, is not one of the things that we
should consider for the
unzoned area. I did come away with probably the majority saying that
a little over majority saying that they preferred some regulations
with regards to solar. We have that overlay with wind and they like
that idea so that they at least have a say in in what's going on next
to them.

Gosnell: All right, and they're
gonna have the planning commission's public hearing on the specific
text that's gotta go in for all the changes that you guys already
talked to them about is gonna be going on on Monday the 29th. So if
people want to go to that, that is at 5:30 p.m. and that's down at the public works office at 600 Scott Boulevard in South Hutchinson. That's where
planning always holds their meetings and they'll also have it on
youtube. They always do that as well. So if you're not able to go out
and you want to watch it, you can do that too. So that's an
opportunity on Monday.

Hirst: Yeah, let's clarify
that a little bit. That's just just for the zoned area that only
applies to the zoned area, but some of those things could very easily
spill over into the unzoned area as we go forward.

Gosnell: All right, Ron Hirst
is the current county commissioner from his section of the county and
he's running for re-election. He'll be on your ballot. August 6th on
the Republican side.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721919690571.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nick Gosnell:&nbsp;Ron, good morning.&nbsp;Ron Hirst: Morning, Nick, another nice morning to start for a typical July day
in Kansas.Nick Gosnell: It is and at least
it's not quite as oppressively hot as what we're going to see about a
week from now. So Ron talk a little bit about your experience and
just what what you feel like has happened in the county commission
since you chose to serve.Ron Hirst: Well, I think we've
done a lot of looking at budgets and looking at how we can provide
least cost needed services. I believe that we have had just for
instance, an opportunity to visit with people and find out what they
really want and what their needs are and a chance to get together and
have good conversation about where Reno County needs to head with
regard to economic development as well as you know, our purpose here
is to provide the welfare and safety of citizens.Gosnell: All right, so what's
your top priority, should you be re-elected to another term?Hirst: Well, I think to
continue going out in the county and visiting the city councils, I
think we need to look at how we can grow economically and feasibly
grow. Reno County, Hutchinson, Reno County. We need to look at the
opportunities and challenges that are out there and create some new
ways to get things done because some of the things we've done 20
years ago just aren't, they won't happen today as you, we can notice.Gosnell: And so talk about
those challenges, I guess first because I asked these questions of
both of the opponents and they didn't really because they are not on
the commission. It was a bit harder for them to answer, but I'll ask
it of you as well. What's one thing? Maybe the county should spend a
little less money on than they have in previous years?Hirst: I think that's an
overall picture rather than just picking and choosing what we are. I
believe we need to look at thoroughly look and review the budgets
that the administrator provides us and that the department heads have
worked with them to provide. Maybe we could look at extending and we
have a really good automotive department that repairs and, fixes new
equipment to be ready for service such as the Sheriff's Department. So I think we need
to look at, at, we could possibly extend and we are starting to do
that now extend the life of our, of our pool of, of vehicles maybe
one more year, but they will have to look at trade in value and where
they go.Gosnell: All right. And what
about different priorities that the county maybe should spend a
little bit more on whether it's short term or long term.Hirst: I have two areas
primarily that I think we need to focus on and one of them if, if I
had my choice and it didn't raise taxes, I would add 1 to 2 more
deputies for the night shift in Reno County because of some activity
that's going on in western Reno County and the other one I would
probably like to improve the budget a little bit or increase the
budget a little bit for a noxious weed control.Gosnell: Ok. yeah, they had a
they have a specific noxious weed person in a lot of counties. Does
Reno County have that?Hirst: I don't remember we
have a dedicated person that's qualified or two people that are
qualified to spray but you run into problems with wind, with rain and
also with the crops that are growing next to the ditches.Gosnell: All right and what do
you see the role is of the county administrator?Hirst: When it relates to
the county commission, we are kind of a direction and provide input. He manages and
administrates the day to day activities of the 18 different
departments that we have and that we can give ideas and, and, and
visit with the administrator on things that we see come up and go to
him first.Gosnell: You know, it's
interesting, Ron because during the, during your last term, the
county councilor went from somebody that just worked for Reno County
to now Patrick Hoffman actually does the job for two different
counties. Have you seen any issues with that?Hirst: No, I have not. I'm
pretty impressed with the county councilor. We have now he brings
some new thoughts here. Mr o'sullivan, our council was great. He knew
the county real well. Patrick Hoffman has fit in really well.Gosnell: All right. You
actually brought some documentation with you, Ron. So I'm gonna go to
that now that I've pretty well gotten through my list of questions
and you were talking about property taxes. I don't, I I'm pretty
certain that it wasn't you that said it, but which of your colleagues
on the county commission? I can't remember the name. I can't remember
the name and, and they'll be yelling at their radio going, it was me, you
should give me credit. Well, I apologize. I can't recall which one of
them it was Ron, but one of them said the county gets a lot more of
the blame when it comes to property taxes. because the, because
they're the ones that send out the notices, even though the county's
portion of property tax, isn't by any means all of it.Hirst: No, the county
portion of property tax. Let's just take, the city of Hutchinson, for
instance, we have a lot of Hutchinson viewers and, the percentage
that the county receives from ad valorem taxes, property taxes is about
just under 22%. about 46% give or take a percent or so is Hutch Juco
and USD 308 and about 24% it goes to the city itself and the rest
are other items. Hutch's library and
Hutch Rec and so forth. And if you look at the city of South Hutch,
it's just a little higher because their total mill levy is less than
it is in Hutchinson. And if you go out into different townships and
so forth, our percentage the county gets will be higher because of
the total mill levy and valuations.Gosnell: And a reminder
of what valuation actually means, it means property value. So the
less property value that you have out in a given area, the the more
mills it takes to get the same amount of money.Hirst: That is true because
there's really not much government can do, and I've said this
before a few times, but to provide the needed services, you either as
inflation eats into all of us, including our home budgets, you either
have to decrease the services or decrease what you're doing at home.
You have to increase your revenue or you have to increase your tax
base. And that's the, that's the method that is the most sound to me
is to increase our tax base.Gosnell: Right. And that's
economic development, which I know that's been important to you as
we've gone across as well. And so that's where the county and the
chamber and the city of Hutchinson and the city of South Hutch,
they're all trying to come together on this industrial Park proposal
south of South Hutchinson. And I know that you guys are continuing to
have conversations about which ways which pieces work to try to make
this all happen to increase that tax base.Hirst: That is true. And,
you know, we also have a lot of other things just besides that future
development down the industrial development, a housing task force
going on right now and some, some new ideas with regard to increase
the housing so that so that we'll be ready when something comes
because there's a lot of houses out there that are available. They may
be a little bit obsolescent with regarding to our younger generation.
But we we are in the process of doing a housing assessment for the
whole county.Gosnell: Well, and while
you're in the middle of that interfaith housing came and reported to
you guys about how the ARPA funds they had have been used to do some
rehabilitation across the county.Hirst: That's true. And
let's look at ARPA funds for a minute. Those didn't come out of any
local tax dollars as far as our budget is concerned and tax levy is
concerned, they were sent down from the federal government and I know
we all pay in federal income tax. So we did pay a part of that, but
those were not dependent upon our local. And we, and we had a quite a
community foundation as well as others were involved in, and getting
input from all over the county. And two, I hope that
those out in the rural cities will, will be involved in and take time
to be involved in, in the direction we're going. Gosnell: The meetings that
took place this week in Arlington and Pretty Prairie with regard to,
the potential of zoning and what they heard on solar and all of that, did you get to go to
those?Hirst: I attended all
three.Gosnell:Ok, so how did they
go in your opinion?Hirst: My opinion is they
went well. That's one of the things that I think we need to probably do more of and that's get out in the county and have some meetings,
although we've done that before and maybe had a half a dozen people show up. This case is we had 100 who 50 to 75 show up at the last
two. And we heard, I, I can only speak for myself, but I think all
three of the commissioners that were in attendance heard very, very
straightforward that zoning is, is not one of the things that we
should consider for the
unzoned area. I did come away with probably the majority saying that
a little over majority saying that they preferred some regulations
with regards to solar. We have that overlay with wind and they like
that idea so that they at least have a say in in what's going on next
to them.Gosnell: All right, and they're
gonna have the planning commission's public hearing on the specific
text that's gotta go in for all the changes that you guys already
talked to them about is gonna be going on on Monday the 29th. So if
people want to go to that, that is at 5:30 p.m. and that's down at the public works office at 600 Scott Boulevard in South Hutchinson. That's where
planning always holds their meetings and they'll also have it on
youtube. They always do that as well. So if you're not able to go out
and you want to watch it, you can do that too. So that's an
opportunity on Monday.Hirst: Yeah, let's clarify
that a little bit. That's just just for the zoned area that only
applies to the zoned area, but some of those things could very easily
spill over into the unzoned area as we go forward.Gosnell: All right, Ron Hirst
is the current county commissioner from his section of the county and
he's running for re-election. He'll be on your ballot. August 6th on
the Republican side.<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;

Transcript: Ron Hirst

Nick Gosnell: In studio with us this morning is Melony Ball. She is running as a Republican for the Reno County Commission for the seat currently held by Commissioner Ron Hirst. He is running for re-election. Also, Ken Nisly is running in that race. They will both join us on Thursday, but Melanie was able to come in and join us on Wednesday. Our other segment this morning, of course, is phone forum, so we wanted to talk to Melanie first about the County Commission race.&nbsp;Good morning, Melanie. How are you? 

Melony Ball: Good morning. I'm doing well. Thank you for having me. 

Nick Gosnell: Oh, you bet. So, first of all, what is the experience that you have that makes you want to serve in this way? 

Ball: I think I know how to talk to people. I think just getting to know people and understanding what they want and being a good listener are all the things, first and foremost, that will help serve the people, because if you can't talk to them and know what they want, you don't know how to move forward from there. 

Gosnell: All right. So, what is your top priority should you be elected to the County Commission? 

Ball: My top priorities are doing my very best to decrease our property taxes so that we can encourage more people to come in. I would like to encourage small businesses being able to start up and being able to thrive here. 

Gosnell: So, when you think about the way the county spends money now, what do you think that maybe the county should spend less money on that they currently do? 

Ball: Well, I am familiar with the fact that they were allotted money to help with child care and beautification, and I'm not really, I don't really believe that that is the county's responsibility to pay child care. I believe that duty is on the parent and the parent alone to figure that out. I understand in other ways that other larger businesses were given money, and I feel like if it's a good thriving business, they shouldn't need help from the county, and I do believe that counties should be more focused on infrastructure and things like that. 

Gosnell: Okay, so when you talk about infrastructure, what's specific that you say, you know, we could probably get more bang for our buck doing this? 

Ball: Well, I think roads to start off with. I don't, I've been driving around quite a bit lately, and I think our roads need attention, especially out in the county. I live off one particular road, and I can tell you that the potholes at the end of it before getting on the highway will totally eat your car. 

Gosnell: Okay, is that a dirt road, or is that a paved road? 

Ball: That's actually a paved road. Okay.

Gosnell: But there are both. Yeah, and that's where it, sometimes it's difficult because the dirt roads, the individual townships sometimes maintain. The paved roads, our county public works a lot of time, unless it's a state highway, and so that's where these township elections, that they're also on your ballot, by the way, in August, are important, too, in addition to county commissions, so try to find out more about candidates in that race as well, if you can. So what do you see the role of, Reno County has a professional administrator, what do you see that person's role as being? What should they be doing with their time? 

Ball: I have not looked into the roles of every single person and what they do, so I can't specifically speak to that.

Gosnell: Okay, and so I guess my question then is, the county commission, let's call it back prior to a county administrator, and forgive me, there's going to be people yelling at their radios because I haven't been in town long enough to have been here before that was. It was somewhere on the order of 15 or 20 years ago that they switched from the county commissioners doing the day-to-day and having a budget person that helped with that side of it, to having a county administrator who does the day-to-day, and the county commission really makes more budgetary decisions, and I don't remember the exact year, and like I said, there are gonna be people shouting at their radio going, Nick, it was in whatever year it was, but making that change leaves in the county commissioners lap really chiefly the budget process. We talked about it a little bit more, but when you sit down and you look at a budget, whether it's for your home or for the county or for whatever it might be, how do you make decisions about what is important now, and what needs to be saved for, and what maybe you say, you know what, we just don't really need to do that? What's your thought process like, maybe to get inside it a little bit? 

Ball: I'm pretty passionate about budgets, actually. My thought process on that is I think you look at everything and you pick out your wants versus the needs, and I think you stick with focusing on the needs first, and you prioritize those, and if you can't meet all the needs or you can meet all the needs and you just want to do some wants, then I think those need to be prioritized as well, and to find out when you're talking about the county in a group of people, you need to find out which ones are going to best serve and to have the most impact at the time. 

Gosnell: All right, and when you're thinking about those wants, do you want to save over years for those when I'm talking about from a government perspective? Do you want to save over a period for that stuff, or do you want to bond to pay for long-term projects? Because today's dollars, especially in these days of inflation, are cheaper than tomorrow's. Any thoughts on that, generally? 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721917187790.jpeg" alt="Melony Ball" />
 <figcaption>Melony Ball</figcaption>
 </figure>Nick Gosnell: In studio with us this morning is Melony Ball. She is running as a Republican for the Reno County Commission for the seat currently held by Commissioner Ron Hirst. He is running for re-election. Also, Ken Nisly is running in that race. They will both join us on Thursday, but Melanie was able to come in and join us on Wednesday. Our other segment this morning, of course, is phone forum, so we wanted to talk to Melanie first about the County Commission race.&nbsp;Good morning, Melanie. How are you? Melony Ball: Good morning. I'm doing well. Thank you for having me. Nick Gosnell: Oh, you bet. So, first of all, what is the experience that you have that makes you want to serve in this way? Ball: I think I know how to talk to people. I think just getting to know people and understanding what they want and being a good listener are all the things, first and foremost, that will help serve the people, because if you can't talk to them and know what they want, you don't know how to move forward from there. Gosnell: All right. So, what is your top priority should you be elected to the County Commission? Ball: My top priorities are doing my very best to decrease our property taxes so that we can encourage more people to come in. I would like to encourage small businesses being able to start up and being able to thrive here. Gosnell: So, when you think about the way the county spends money now, what do you think that maybe the county should spend less money on that they currently do? Ball: Well, I am familiar with the fact that they were allotted money to help with child care and beautification, and I'm not really, I don't really believe that that is the county's responsibility to pay child care. I believe that duty is on the parent and the parent alone to figure that out. I understand in other ways that other larger businesses were given money, and I feel like if it's a good thriving business, they shouldn't need help from the county, and I do believe that counties should be more focused on infrastructure and things like that. Gosnell: Okay, so when you talk about infrastructure, what's specific that you say, you know, we could probably get more bang for our buck doing this? Ball: Well, I think roads to start off with. I don't, I've been driving around quite a bit lately, and I think our roads need attention, especially out in the county. I live off one particular road, and I can tell you that the potholes at the end of it before getting on the highway will totally eat your car. Gosnell: Okay, is that a dirt road, or is that a paved road? Ball: That's actually a paved road. Okay.Gosnell: But there are both. Yeah, and that's where it, sometimes it's difficult because the dirt roads, the individual townships sometimes maintain. The paved roads, our county public works a lot of time, unless it's a state highway, and so that's where these township elections, that they're also on your ballot, by the way, in August, are important, too, in addition to county commissions, so try to find out more about candidates in that race as well, if you can. So what do you see the role of, Reno County has a professional administrator, what do you see that person's role as being? What should they be doing with their time? Ball: I have not looked into the roles of every single person and what they do, so I can't specifically speak to that.Gosnell: Okay, and so I guess my question then is, the county commission, let's call it back prior to a county administrator, and forgive me, there's going to be people yelling at their radios because I haven't been in town long enough to have been here before that was. It was somewhere on the order of 15 or 20 years ago that they switched from the county commissioners doing the day-to-day and having a budget person that helped with that side of it, to having a county administrator who does the day-to-day, and the county commission really makes more budgetary decisions, and I don't remember the exact year, and like I said, there are gonna be people shouting at their radio going, Nick, it was in whatever year it was, but making that change leaves in the county commissioners lap really chiefly the budget process. We talked about it a little bit more, but when you sit down and you look at a budget, whether it's for your home or for the county or for whatever it might be, how do you make decisions about what is important now, and what needs to be saved for, and what maybe you say, you know what, we just don't really need to do that? What's your thought process like, maybe to get inside it a little bit? Ball: I'm pretty passionate about budgets, actually. My thought process on that is I think you look at everything and you pick out your wants versus the needs, and I think you stick with focusing on the needs first, and you prioritize those, and if you can't meet all the needs or you can meet all the needs and you just want to do some wants, then I think those need to be prioritized as well, and to find out when you're talking about the county in a group of people, you need to find out which ones are going to best serve and to have the most impact at the time. Gosnell: All right, and when you're thinking about those wants, do you want to save over years for those when I'm talking about from a government perspective? Do you want to save over a period for that stuff, or do you want to bond to pay for long-term projects? Because today's dollars, especially in these days of inflation, are cheaper than tomorrow's. Any thoughts on that, generally? Ball: Well, overall, I believe that the borrower is the slave to the lender. So, yes, I do believe in saving for things, especially if they're wants and not needs. I believe, again, it comes back to prioritizing and finding out what the best move is for the overall people and economy.Gosnell: Commissioner Hirst and Ken Nisly are both running as well for the seat, and they will be on on Thursday. So, we will await their comments and then have all three interviews that'll get posted at <a href="http://hutchpost.com">hutchpost.com</a> at the same time so that everybody can find those and listen to them and or read transcripts of them prior to advanced voting. Advanced voting is going on at the Reno County Annex during regular business hours, and it'll be going on until August 5th at noon. If you're not able to get there by then, you'll vote at your regular polling place on Tuesday, August 6th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Melanie is running in the Republican primary. There is not a Democratic primary for this seat. So, Melanie, there have been meetings earlier this week in Arlington and Pretty Prairie regarding zoning in the unzoned parts of the county. Now, I'm going to try to frame this back up based on what I heard from County Administrator Randy Partington the last time I had him in here to talk. Basically, outside of the towns, the western half, roughly, of Reno County is not zoned. Have you been hearing from people about that as you have talked as part of the campaign? Ball: Absolutely. Yeah, I've actually been going to as many doors as I possibly can. First and foremost, I wanted to... I think it was a great opportunity for me to be able to get out there and have something to talk about with my future constituents. So, it was a great lead-in for me to be able to invite them to a zoning meeting that was not well-publicized. Most people hadn't even heard about it. I am not for zoning, and that seems to be the consensus of what I feel the people out in the western half of the county want as well. Well, most of the people... Gosnell: We have an employee here that lives in an unzoned portion of the county. He says, well, that's the reason my wife and I moved out to that part of the county is because we want to be able to do what we want to do with our land. And for those that are not near larger communities, there's a lot of that that's the case. Not to mention, as Administrator Partington said to me, agricultural land is already unzoned by statute. So, if it's farmland, it's not going to be zoned anyway. Ball: But it's not just farmers out there. I mean, that is a large portion of it. But there are so many... you think about all the Amish, all the Mennonite out there. So many of them have cabinet shops, they have welding shops, they have all these different businesses, salons in their garages and things like that. That is their livelihood. That is how they make their living. And they can't do it in town because the taxes are extremely high, and they can't afford a places to do that. So, I think this is a huge benefit as a way for them to make a living.Gosnell: All right. So, the other piece of those meetings was brief questions on solar generally. The Planning Commission is going to have their big writing of the regulations meeting on Monday the 29th. So, what are your general thoughts on solar across the county and where it maybe would be good and maybe not? Ball: Well, I certainly don't wish for large scale utility to come in. And I don't think anybody wants that. I do believe that smaller scale solar could happen all over this city. If there's... we've got so many empty rooftops, they can be putting them anywhere and everywhere. I do believe another commissioner had mentioned once before that you could put awnings over the parking lot of Walmart and just fill it with solar there. I think there's so many other ways to approach solar than large, taking up large portions of land.<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;