By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Developer ibV of Florida answered questions for more than two hours during the Ellis County Commission meeting on Tuesday about its proposed $275 million Tallgrass Development solar project in southwest Ellis County.

IbV is requesting a conditional-use permit to erect solar panels that would generate&nbsp;175MW of power for the Southwest Power Pool energy market,&nbsp;connecting via ITC Great Plains’ 345-kilovolt Spearville-Post Rock&nbsp;transmission line.

The county commission did not take a vote on the conditional-use permit.

Darin Myers, Ellis County administrator, said the county will be in talks with ibV during the next two months. He said a vote on the permit is unlikely until March.

Due to the number of protest petitions received, approval of the conditional-use permit will require a unanimous vote of the commission.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/43b108f6-bc5c-46de-969e-92813c1887e5">SEE RELATED STORY: Planning commission sends solar project to Ellis County Commission</a>

The commission submitted 18 written questions to the ibV in advance of the meeting. Commissioners and members of the public asked additional questions.

Some of the concerns included water, decommissioning the site, environmental effects and potential effects on neighbors.

As was discussed at the&nbsp;Joint Ellis County Planning Commission meeting, Steven Link, ibV senior project developer, said the project did not have any need for potable water. 

The site will need 150 to 250 gallons per day for a small number of on-site operations staff. Link said ibV intends to use pond or reclaimed water.

The ibV representatives were asked to whom they intend to sell the power generated by the solar panels. Link said most utilities enter into long-term power purchase agreements. He said power in this region is in demand, but ibV can't enter into an agreement to sell the power until it knows its permit will be approved.

IbV has already completed its final interconnection study. It will be required to pay for upgrades to connect to the existing power system.

The commissioners asked ibV why it has asked for an extension of its conditional-use permit for up to two years. Robin Saiz, vice president, said some of the high-voltage infrastructure needed to connect to the grid is taking up to 36 months to deliver.&nbsp;

Although ibV is required to pay for the connection to the grid, the local power system installs the infrastructure, and projects might also be delayed at this step in the process, Saiz said.

Jessica Augustine, Audubon of Kansas executive director, said although Audubon generally supports renewable energy, she urged the commission to consider the environmental effects on grassland and wildlife.

In a letter submitted to the commission and in oral testimony, she suggested the commission require environmental monitoring prior to permitting, during construction and during operations.

Augustine said Audubon urged the construction of solar projects on already disturbed or developed land, not on native grassland.

Audubon bases its annual Lek Treks tours of native lesser prairie chicken habitats in Hays. IbV representatives said a walk-through of the site found no activity by lesser prairie chickens. However, they said they intend to conduct additional surveys this spring.

Augustine also urged the developer, if the project is approved, to maintain fencing that allows small-animal movement beneath the fences and large-animal movement through and around the development.

She also urged ibV to plant only native grasses.

IbV has met with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service about the solar project.

It has conducted&nbsp;Critical Issues Analysis, a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment, Threatened and Endangered Species Report, Wetland Delineation and a Cultural and Historic Resource Analysis.

The commission asked ibV if the Kaw Oil Pipeline intersected the site.&nbsp;

A representative from the Kaw Pipeline told the commission he had only just been made aware of the solar project. He said he had significant concerns about the project being located over the pipeline.

He said regulations give the pipeline the right of way.

The ibV representatives said they are working on geological surveys of the property. They did not think the project was over the pipeline, but would determine that soon.

IbV will be required to establish a decommissioning bond. The site is supposed to remain active for up to 35 years.

The ibV representatives said if the solar farm were ever sold, the bond and conditional-use permit requirements would remain in effect. In the event of bankruptcy, the bond would also cover the site's decommissioning.

The commissioners asked about the insurance in the event of hail, high winds or tornadoes.

Saiz said the project will be insured for full replacement of the facility.

However, the infrastructure will be rated for a category two windstorm and up to 90mm hail. The solar panels track to follow the sun throughout the day. The site will be equipped with a 24/7 monitored weather station.&nbsp;

In the event of a storm, the solar panels can be tilted to minimize wind or hail damage.

The panels will be made of glass, silicone and lead-free solder. Link said the panels are mainly made of glass. They contain no hazardous liquids or hazmat materials, Link said.

In the event of panel damage, a small number of panels may be disposed of in the local landfill if approved by the local environmental director. If a large number of panels needed to be disposed of, they would likely be shipped to another location for recycling.

The representatives said the company's insurance would cover the cleanup.

Although earlier generation solar panels reflected light, the current generation does not. The panels also don't emit significant heat, Link said.

The panels are not noisy, but the inverters emit a hum equivalent to a household refrigerator, Saiz said.

IbV plans to tap directly into the power grid and will not have any on-site battery storage.

IbV plans to start construction on the project during the first half of 2027, with completion in 18 months.

Commission chairman Michael Berges asked what would happen if the project were abandoned. Saiz said that it is unlikely, given the company's investment and the value of the transmission interconnection.

County attorney Bill Jeter said if ibV started construction and then made no progress for a year, the site could be considered abandoned.&nbsp;

Berges requested that quarterly updates on the construction project be a stipulation of the permit.

The ibV representatives said they will have an emergency and fire plan in place before construction begins.

Myers, who is also the Ellis County fire chief, said if the project is approved, Ellis County Fire would conduct training at the facility, similar to that done with the Buckeye Wind Farm.

He said the fire department would handle a fire at the solar facility the same way it would handle any grass fire. They would let the fire burn to the firefighters and then extinguish it.

IbV said they would provide first responders with access to the lock boxes at their gates, and Myers said they could cut through fence if necessary.

IbV and the county are negotiating a payment in lieu of taxes or PILOT for the first 10 years of the solar facility's operation. That amount is yet to be determined.

After 10 years, the state statute stipulates the facility would return to the tax rolls, with taxes going to all taxing entities, including the rural fire district, county and school district.

The facility would be just inside the Hays USD 489 boundaries.

A condition of the permit will also include a road and bridge escrow account to be used for any repairs or upgrades to county roads resulting from the project.

Tallgrass Development will host two open house events at Gella’s venue room. They will be from noon to 2 p.m. and from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22.

This will be in a station-type setting where community members can engage directly with the Tallgrass Development Team on specific areas of interest, such as engineering, environmental, community benefits and solar technology.

Solar developer answers Ellis County Commission questions

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Recent obituaries, how to submit an obituary

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The five Hays city commissioners will be sworn into office on Thursday by Jami Breit, city clerk.

 It's the first meeting of 2026 for the governing body, which will then be reorganized.

A new mayor and vice-mayor will be nominated and elected. A tribute to the outgoing mayor, Sandy Jacobs, will follow.

Commission members Alaina Cunningham, Sandy Jacobs, Shaun Musil, Mason Ruder will serve four-year terms. The incoming David Vilaysing, who defeated Reese Barrick in the fall general election, will serve a two-year term.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The only business on the agenda is a vote to approve the city commission rules of procedure. They contain a&nbsp;complete set of regulations, standards, and procedures that govern the commission proceedings.

The complete Jan. 8 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01082026-1589">here</a>. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays City Commission members to be sworn in Thursday

WICHITA – The Kansas Leadership Center, a first-of-its-kind nonprofit educational organization based in Wichita, welcomes a new slate of officers for its 2026 board of directors.&nbsp;

“This transition in officers reflects KLC’s commitment to strong governance and leadership continuity. This cohort of Kansans are well positioned to support our efforts, and we are excited about the energy this group will bring to our mission of inspiring and equipping people to do difficult things for the common good,” said Kaye Monk-Morgan, president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center.&nbsp;

Pete&nbsp;Nájera&nbsp;is the president&nbsp;and CEO of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://unitedwayplains.org/">United Way of the Plains</a>&nbsp;where he works to advance the common good for all citizens in south central Kansas. He is also a combat veteran, having honed his leadership skills in a 20-year Army career that included tours in Korea, Germany and Iraq.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/peter-najera/">Read more</a>.

Dr. Jill Arensdorf learned about leadership at a young age while growing up in rural western Kansas where she participated in 4-H and the National FFA Organization. Today, Dr. Arensdorf serves as provost and vice president for academic affairs at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/leadership/faculty-and-staff/jill-arensdorf/">Fort Hays State University</a>.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/jill-arensdorf/">Read more</a>.&nbsp;

Thomas (Tom) Carignan is an experienced financial services leader with over 20 years’ experience currently serving the members of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.communityamerica.com/">CommunityAmerica Credit Union</a>. A native of Hutchinson, Carignan has been engaged in the community from a very early age.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/thomas-carignan/">Read more</a>.

The Honorable Gwynne E. Birzer’s legal career has spanned over 33 years in such roles as an assistant district attorney, assistant public defender, assistant attorney general, founding and leading her own law firm, and rising to partner in the law firm Hite, Fanning, and Honeyman LLP. She was appointed as the sixth United States magistrate judge sitting in Wichita in 2015.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/gwynne-birzer/">Read more</a>.&nbsp;

One board member, Frank York, is retiring from the board after 13 years of service.

“We offer our sincere gratitude to Frank York, who has given KLC’s board of directors 13 years of dedicated service. His leadership and commitment have been invaluable to KLC’s mission, and we wish him all the best in retirement,” said Monk-Morgan.&nbsp;

Learn more at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/">KansasLeadershipCenter.org</a>.

FHSU provost named to Kansas Leadership Center 2026 board of directors

LAWRENCE — A crew from the Kansas Geological Survey, based at the University of Kansas, along with staff from three field offices of the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources, was in western Kansas to measure groundwater levels the first week of January 2026.

Levels are measured annually as part of a joint project to monitor the health of the state’s valuable groundwater resources. Most of the wells measured by KGS and DWR tap into the High Plains aquifer, a massive network of underground water-bearing rocks and the main source of water in western Kansas. The rest draw from deeper aquifers or shallower alluvial aquifers along creeks and rivers.

The KGS crew performed work near Colby, Goodland, Elkhart and Liberal.

Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager, said timely precipitation during the 2025 growing season should contribute to water-level increases in some parts of south-central Kansas.

“We started 2025 a little on the dry side across much of western and south-central Kansas, but that all changed going into the summer months and continuing into the fall,” Wilson said. “Many producers I’ve talked to were very pleased with not only the amount but timeliness of the rains this past growing season. Given south-central Kansas’ propensity to recharge in response to higher precipitation events, we should see water levels rise across most of the region.”

For the Ogallala portions of the High Plains aquifer in the western third of the state, though, Wilson expects to see mixed results.

“Several counties in west-central Kansas along with portions of northwest Kansas will likely have fairly stable water levels this year with smaller pockets of water-level declines,” he said. “This will also be true for areas in southwest Kansas; however, I anticipate areas that traditionally have seen past rates of decline will likely do so again this year.”

The High Plains aquifer underlies portions of eight states. In Kansas, it encompasses three individual aquifers — the Ogallala aquifer in the western third of the state, the Equus Beds around Wichita and Hutchinson, and the Great Bend Prairie aquifer around Pratt and Great Bend.

Groundwater levels in much of the state’s portion of the Ogallala aquifer have been on the decline since water use started to rise in the mid-20th century. Dry years lead to increased water usage, primarily for irrigation, which in turn typically causes greater declines in water levels.

KGS and DWR measure depth to water in roughly 1,400 wells in 48 counties, primarily in January to avoid as much as possible skewed data associated with short-term declines caused by widespread pumping during the growing season. 

This year, KGS will measure 569 wells, and crews from the DWR’s field offices in Garden City, Stafford and Stockton will measure 824.

Wells are accessed with landowners’ permission, and many have been monitored for years, although new wells are added as older wells become inaccessible or to fill in spatial gaps in the monitoring network. The majority are within the boundaries of the state’s five groundwater management districts (GMDs), which are organized and governed by area landowners and water users to address local water-resource issues.

Historical annual measurements for each well are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kgs.ku.edu/Magellan/WaterLevels/index.html">KGS website</a>. Results of measurements made in January will be added in late February.

Groundwater levels near Colby, Goodland measured by Kansas Geological Survey

Kansas Department of Transportation

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Dec. 17, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Ellsworth ‑ 156‑27 KA‑7819‑01 ‑ K‑156, from the Barton/Ellsworth county line east to the north city limits of Ellsworth, milling and overlay, 20.2 miles, Venture Corp., Great Bend, Kansas, $5,577,048.74.

Jewell ‑ 14‑45 KA‑7909‑01 ‑ K‑14, from the U.S. 36/K‑14 east junction north to the Nebraska/Kansas state line, crack repair, 15.2 miles, Pavement Pros LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $102,629.47.

Statewide ‑ 70‑106 KA‑7868‑01 – I-70, multiple ramps in Ellsworth county and multiple ramps in Lincoln county, milling and overlay, 27.6 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $857,075.44.

Statewide ‑ 14‑106 KA‑7905‑01 ‑ K‑14, beginning at the Lincoln/Mitchell county line north to the south city limits of Beloit in Mitchell County, from the U.S. 24/K‑14 junction north to the Mitchell/Jewell county line, and from the Mitchell/Jewell county line north to the U.S. 36/K‑14 junction in Jewell County, crack repair, 39.7 miles, Pavement Pros LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $304,941.41.

Thomas ‑ 25‑97 KA‑6021‑01 – K-25, from County Road I north to 4-lane transition south of I‑70, grading, bridge and surfacing, 7.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $13,356,460.88.

Barton ‑ 156‑5 KA‑7603‑01 ‑ K‑156, bridge #007 over Walnut Creek Drainage located 1.17 miles northeast of the U.S. 56 junction, bridge repair, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $505,096.40

KDOT announces approved December bids for area counties

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Central Plains Oilers in their final game before the Christmas break Friday night.

TMP-Marian v Sylvan-Lucas Tuesday, Jan. 6, 6 p.m Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3315064">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Sylvan-Lucas Mustangs in the first game back following the holiday break.

Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6:00 p.m. The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 5:40 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

🏀🎥 TMP opens 2026 at home against Sylvan-Lucas

Hays High vs Manhattan Tuesday, Jan. 6 - 6:00 Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network &nbsp; WATCH HERE - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3314631">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a> &nbsp;

Hays High opens 2026 with homes games against Manhattan.

All four teams are ranked in their respective classification.

The Hays girls beat Manhattan 61-53 in the Hays City Shootout Championship earlier in the season.

🏀 📺 Hays High opens 2026 by hosting Manhattan

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission voted&nbsp;during its Tuesday meeting to return the preliminary plat for Big Creek Third Addition to the Joint Ellis County Planning Commission for further review.

The project proposed by Adam Pray would be north of Reservation Road and include 14 residential lots and one stormwater retention lot.

Commissioners cited unresolved concerns involving stormwater drainage, lot sizes and zoning compliance, many of which were also raised by county residents during public comments.

"There are some inaccuracies that need to go back to the zoning commission and be corrected or addressed one way or another," Commissioner Michael Berges said.

Justin Craig, county environmental services director, opened the discussion by outlining concerns about the preliminary plat. He said he is working to secure an agreement with the Big Creek Sewer District before submitting a final application, as there will be no water septic systems.

James Graham, a Big Creek Estates resident, echoed those concerns, questioning the availability of water in the area.

"Water has been a long contentious point regarding any further development within Big Creek Estates," Graham said. "We all rely on domestic water wells for our drinking water and there is no provision of a plan for Ellis County or the city of Hays to provide residents with water if something were to cause an issue with our supply."

Commissioner Neal Younger suggested Big Creek Estates residents explore forming a rural water district or seeking water from the city of Hays. Graham said the city has shown no interest in doing so, based on informal inquiries.

Graham added existing Big Creek Estate residents are already facing high sewer fees, and additional costs for rural water would not be feasible at this time.

Graham said he supports a stormwater retention lot but the proposed design does not comply with county drainage regulations.

"Storm runoff from just about every lot in this plan would have to travel more than 400 feet and cross at least four adjacent lots to reach the retention area," he said.

The proposed lots vary in size from about 12,200 to 25,500 square feet.

Graham also raised concerns about whether the proposed roadway would remain private or be transferred to the county. He noted the planned cul-de-sac radius falls 15 feet short of county standards.

Randy Purdue of Kaw Valley Engineering said the cul-de-sac radius can be adjusted to meet the 75-foot requirement, and the roadway would remain private, with maintenance handled by Pray.

Purdue also addressed concerns about double-fronted lots and said the plat will be revised to limit direct access to existing city roads, including Reservation Road and Logan Drive.

The commission unanimously voted to send the preliminary plat back to the planning and zoning commission, along with a list of issues to be addressed at its Jan. 28 meeting.

Commissioners emphasized they were not denying or approving the preliminary plat.

The Ellis County District Court received approval to transfer $9,600 from opioid settlement funds to purchase a one-year license for a phone application that would be used to monitor up to 30 individuals released on supervised bond.

The commission also approved a resolution formally establishing weight limits on certain county-maintained bridges.

Ellis County Commission sends housing development plat back to planning commission

CASA of the High Plains has set a Neon Moon Sweetheart Country Prom for Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Hays.

The event will raise funds for the local Court Appointed Special Advocates program, which provides volunteers who give a voice to children in need of care in court.

The event's cocktail hour will start at 6 p.m., with a silent auction at 7 p.m. and a country-themed dance with a DJ at 8 p.m.

A cash bar will be offered. This is a 21-and-older event.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at <a href="https://casaofthehighplains.org/">casaofthehighplains.org</a>.

Tickets are $50 each or $90 per couple. Sponsorship packages are available, all of which include drinks and some offer discounted rooms at the Hilton.

These packages can be found on the <a href="https://casaofthehighplains.org/">CASA website</a>.

CASA is still accepting sponsorships for the event and donations for the silent auction. You can contact CASA at 785-628-8641&nbsp;or email&nbsp;info@casaofthehighplains.org&nbsp;for more information.

Traditionally, CASA had sponsored an annual Valentine's dinner fundraiser. However, the organization has not had that event for several years.

Jan Johnson, CASA director, said this event is a resurrection of the group's winter fundraiser.

Johnson said she imagines an '80s or '90s country theme, but she has friends coming in all sorts of attire, from boots and jeans to prom dresses.

CASA is a nonprofit organization and receives no federal funds. It receives two small state grants and a small annual grant from the county. The remainder of the organization's operating costs are funded through local donations.

CASA of the High Plains covers the four counties of the 23rd Judicial District: Gove, Trego, Rooks and Ellis counties, with the majority of cases originating from Ellis County.

Court Appointed Special Advocates serve as a voice for children in court. They are trained volunteers who meet with all of the parties involved when a child is in state custody.&nbsp;

After conducting an independent investigation, which includes building a relationship and speaking with the child, the advocate writes a report and submits a recommendation to the court regarding the child's custody.

"When you put it down in black and white and make a nice bullet point timeline, what has happened to this child since the case came into care, generally about the time they hit kindergarten ... especially if you can get a direct letter from the child about what their experience has been, it can really clear things up," Johnson said. "The CASA is the one who gets that done."

Johnson said some of the children who finally receive CASAs are teenagers and still in the system.

"Being a child, a teenager, is tough enough. It's a pretty rough time of life. Everything is happening to you. You aren't in charge of anything," Johnson said. "It truly does set the tone for the rest of your life. This is where and how changes get made."

In 2024, the latest year for which complete statistics are available, the 23rd Judicial District had 99 new child-in-need-of-care cases.

"Here all the time, 'Kids today, kids today.' But kids today are the direct result of adults today," she said. "There are so many people who are in positions to make a change for a kid, and they just don't.

"Something is holding them back from being the one to step up for a kid."

CASA's work was slowed during the pandemic.

However, CASA went from two cases two years ago to 26 cases during the last two years and 15 of those cases were resolved.

"Over and over on the cases we have closed, it was the CASA who made the difference in the case," Johnson said.

Johnson said the local CASA chapter has had a high rate of resolution for children, which she credited to the excellent volunteers working on those cases.

County attorneys, case workers and others will come and go, but the CASA is a consistent person in the child's life throughout the court case. The CASA maintains regular contact with the child even when the child is not in court, Johnson said.

The local CASA chapter is in need of more volunteers to work as advocate and in support roles, Johnson said.

The local CASA chapter has four advocates with three more in training.

You don't need any legal training to become a CASA. You have to submit to a background check and complete 35 to 40 hours of training.

When a volunteer first takes a case, they might volunteer 15 to 20 hours in a month. Later in the cases, volunteers may be needed for only three hours per month, Johnson said.

Volunteers can take breaks between cases.

Volunteers are also needed for the local CASA board and to serve on committees, which could include working on a single event.

The CASA board is planning another event in the spring based on Child Abuse Prevention Month.

You can donate to CASA&nbsp;at any time by visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://casaofthehighplains.org/" target="_blank">CASA website</a>&nbsp;or by&nbsp;mailing checks to 107 W. 13th, Hays, KS 67601.

"Your dollar given goes directly to serving these kids," Johnson said. "This organization is on a shoestring. There's not a lot of overhead here."

CASA sets Sweetheart Country Prom fundraiser to support advocacy for children

Make your nomination below to help us recognize an Ellis County Child Care Provider.

Nominate a Child Care Champion

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

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The City of Hays Water Resources Department has contracted with CC Steel, LLC to perform sewer line cleaning and inspections at the locations shown on the attached map in the Southern part of the City. Cleaning will begin on or around Monday, January 5, 2026. The entire project should be completed within 1 month, weather permitting. Door hanger notices will be placed on homes and businesses affected prior to cleaning.  An example of the door knocker is included.  Work will begin at the North end of the project area and proceed South until completed.

During this process, residents may experience a rumbling sound, in addition to the possibility of water entering your sink, bathtub and/or toilet. Sewer lines can develop air pressure or a partial vacuum from the cleaning process.

If you will not be home or on vacation during this time of sewer line cleaning, please protect your home by keeping your toilet lids down. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact CC Steel LLC's onsite Supervisor at 701-318-0088, or the Water Resources Dept. at 785-628-7380.

Sanitary sewer line cleaning, inspection starts today

A new year is here, and many of us are thinking about how to do something meaningful. Resolve to make a difference in 2026 by becoming an American Red Cross volunteer.

“Volunteers are the true heart of the Red Cross, making up 90% of our workforce and powering our humanitarian mission every day. Whether responding to disasters, teaching lifesaving skills, supporting military families, or helping patients in need of blood, their impact is profound,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas.

In 2026, join a team of changemakers working together to make an impact.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJw8y01uwyAQxfHTwA4LMF9esMjG14gGmImt2nUCNG5vXyWquv299y9RWjSQOUblndd-cqPnS7RSIxnykIp1E2F2oEwmGXRWJZDia3STdSFR0tJAvipNbixBmhCUl6NmRra14Mf6EDusG9Ym_JSSLZ4Sie_z0d3wGvgWl97vjY0Xpmem5_M8h4ol16O14ag3pufnsX19dsTK9JwwHzsKEP84LH3f-I5lBVFxQ2go1hLfcP0DNl60tMFYXuMCP-1-tM6MRLht-D4O-dh56xVxf8VSO6IJrbCgUBgFVkzBO1GI8uiMSeAVf0b9GwAA__-uP2U5">Sign up here</a>&nbsp;and be part of the solution.

<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJxMjzFywyAURE8DHRpAfJAKCje6hgfEx2KCjAzYSm6fsSdFup23-4oNlgMqt1K0wmgjzaxHQzcbQMCkQHkYEfwqJogawHCvVlRGcZqsnkFPPnrJlVuvQkY9homraRKGj5Io3lLAr_Rgu0sZa2Nm9h6CiT6y7_PR9fAuaLZb70cj44XIhcjlPM-hYlhraW0o9Ubk8ir5ee-I9X9m5ThK7c976gkbkUvFwD4WC5jTC2sbtr5nIhe6Y0iOVczoGrIU7Adc_wAZL5K_39JqN_fTjtI6URzdLeNnOKxlp61XxP0tc6ljnBEYOIFMCQdsnoxmIcZ11Ep5ZwR9WfkbAAD__1Hhbx8">BLOOD TRANSPORTATION SPECIALISTS</a>&nbsp;Blood Transportation Specialists bring lifesaving blood and blood products to local hospitals within their region. They choose when they want to help with either scheduled shifts or our on-demand opportunities. As an on-demand volunteer, you can choose shifts that fit your schedule. You’ll receive real-time alerts when hospitals have a critical request for urgently needed blood and be on your way to the distribution site within 30 minutes to two hours. Your time driving could be the difference in helping save a patient’s life.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwszLtuwjAUBuCnsTcj3y-DByTE1LFSu6Hj-LixSBSIDSlvXwV1_f5LjtyghoFiFM466YJVjo4xK5-CzrJAKEUYB4lzaZRXThZhgqE12mCsTyVJrmG4CFmsyp5r74XjShLNW814rXc2Q51wbcyFlEx2JRX2u927PewBneLY-60RdSTyTOR527bDa3n0R8LDsMy7QB9Gos5Pok7fbPxsHzh8na50xlyBrTghNGQ1xzdc_oGoo-TGa0PXOMKr3ZbWieYIPxO-i_s7bX1FnPcxl7aUgIYZEMi0AMOCd5blUgZltU7gBH1G-RcAAP__uj5eFQ">Find more information here.</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJxMyz3y2yAUBPDTQIeGb1BB8W90Dc9DPCwmkpEBW8ntM_akSLfz290UuEENK8UgnHXSzVY5uoWUNQivuEpiTU6hFdYKLwx34MBmQ0uws7E-5ii5hvUmZLYqea69F44rSTTvJeGv8mQHlB1bZ26O0SSXY2a_r-ew06ege9jGODtRP0QuRC7XdU0N09pq71NtdyKXd91fj4HY_s-snmdt4_Uoo2Ancol7rYml-qiNwRGhd0i1Tds4dnpgKsAa7ggdWUnhC7d_QNSP5MZrQ1vY4E8_ax9Ec4T7jt_htNaD9tEQj8-ZS5vzjIYZEMi0AMNm7yxLOa_Kah3BCfoO8m8AAAD__z7acDU">BLOOD DONOR AMBASSADOR</a>&nbsp;If you enjoy connecting with people, consider becoming a Blood Donor Ambassador, a role that makes a real difference in your community. Ambassadors help ensure every blood donor has a positive experience, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. You’ll greet donors, assist with registration, answer questions, share helpful information and offer refreshments after their donation. Whether you volunteer regularly or occasionally is up to you.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwszMtu4jAUBuCnsXdGvhzfFl6gGSGNNH2ArtBxfEyiJgJiQ8rbV0Hdfv-lJGkJcOCUlHde--iM52MyplKIKlspDWEOKshSZcTgh6A8AJ-Si9aFXLOWgMNZ6epMCRJCUF4azUC2qdDXdBcLTjOtTfiYsy2-5iq-t3t3hz3gcxp7vzVmjkyfmD5t23Z4XR_9kekwXJddsA8jM6cnM38vf-CDoPwX_z75QmVCsdJM2EhMJb3h_AvMHLW0ASxf04ivdru2zkASXmZ6F_d33vpKtOxjqV2tkaywqEiAQiti8E6UWgfjADJ6xZ9J_wQAAP__bRddhg">Learn more here.</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsyz1ywyAQxfHTQIcG0PKhgsKNruFZxGIxkSwbiJXcPmNP2t97_xSkIcCFU1DOOu0mOzq-BqsmGwmcm0YfjQQLxmgpPUVQPiPwEuxkrI85agm4XJXOdkxegvfKyVEzkK0k-ipPsWPZqDbhphhNcjlm8XM-ux3eA9_C2vujsfHC9Mz0fJ7nUCkt9WhtOOqN6fl1bN_3TlSZnlNp2DpVgUsvx110wn1Y-77xnVJBUWkjbCRKCh-4_gMbL1oaD4bXsOJvexytM5CEt40-x2E5dt56JdrfsdQ254mMMKhIgEIjJu-sSDkvowWI6BR_Bf0XAAD___NzZJY">DISASTER ACTION TEAM</a>&nbsp;Every year, the Red Cross responds to over 65,000 emergencies. The vast majority of these are local, personal crises like home fires. These events may not make headlines, but they shatter lives. For more than 60 years, our Disaster Action Team volunteers have been ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year — to deliver immediate relief, emotional support, and long-term recovery resources. When disaster strikes, we make sure families never face it alone.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy8tu1DAUxvGncXaO7GPHl0UWgVGQWBQQQtBuKl-OG9OkmbFNM-3To1bd_r7vH0c2oHShw5FrpUFbJXS3jMEHaxJY4MYIEMJKLiJ4J1ALkxLr8qjsoIxPHph04Z5DUiIaJo3hmgkgktUc8TFf6ObyiqVSbb0fok4-0etxaap_G7p1XFo7VyImAjOB-TiOvmAMZa-138sDgfl5X_89NcRCYI65utqwUBda3p9oQ7f1S9tWIuZa6tpyJOI0pe3Tt_1c9cT_TNZcv-Bv-evn43pzu7Cb-fr3srzcydPn8PW13n33P7bby1JOYF-7DWN2tOCKriLNcXyH-w8gYgI2GDl0ZVzcSz3vtRHJ0D2s-H7sw751tRXE7S1moFKyONDBcaSSu4FaoxWNKQWhpPRO8-55hP8BAAD__4pWfIc">Learn more&nbsp;</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJxMy72u4yAUBOCnMR0WHP4LijR5jQjMIUZrBwdIvPv2q0S3uN3om5nkmUIZFoKeG23AOC0MWb0w4Jh0Cni0bslGS4CYwCThEHSwpHjtlLYxR2AyLDcOWYtkmbSWGyZgkqyXhH_Kk-6hbNg6NS5GlUyOmf49n0PPn4Jsfh3j6JO4THCd4Hqe59wwLa32Ptd2n-D6rtvrMRDb70zrcdQ2Xo8yCvZ5HftGdkwl0IYbho60JP-F2w9M4gJMWalI82v414_axyQZhvuG3-G81J300RD3z5mBztmhoipwpJIHRZ01mqacF6GljMFw8vbwPwAA___OUGaj">DUTY OFFICER</a>&nbsp;As a Duty Officer, you’ll be the vital link between disaster responders and those in need — dispatching volunteers to scenes like home fires and floods, all from the comfort of your own home. This is a remote, on-call role that keeps our disaster response program running smoothly. You’ll coordinate with field teams, emergency partners and staff to ensure fast, effective help reaches those affected by disaster.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy8tu1DAUxvGncXaO7GPHl0UWgVGQWBQQQtBuKl-OG9OkmbFNM-3To1bd_r7vH0c2oHShw5FrpUFbJXS3jMEHaxJY4MYIEMJKLiJ4J1ALkxLr8qjsoIxPHph04Z5DUiIaJo3hmgkgktUc8TFf6ObyiqVSbb0fok4-0etxaap_G7p1XFo7VyImAjOB-TiOvmAMZa-138sDgfl5X_89NcRCYI65utqwUBda3p9oQ7f1S9tWIuZa6tpyJOI0pe3Tt_1c9cT_TNZcv-Bv-evn43pzu7Cb-fr3srzcydPn8PW13n33P7bby1JOYF-7DWN2tOCKriLNcXyH-w8gYgI2GDl0ZVzcSz3vtRHJ0D2s-H7sw751tRXE7S1moFKyONDBcaSSu4FaoxWNKQWhpPRO8-55hP8BAAD__4pWfIc">Learn more here</a>.

JOIN US&nbsp;Your time and talents can drive our lifesaving mission forward. Don’t see an opportunity here that speaks to you? One not available in your area? There are lots of other ways to get involved! Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJw8y01uwyAQxfHTwA4LMF9esMjG14gGmImt2nUCNG5vXyWquv299y9RWjSQOUblndd-cqPnS7RSIxnykIp1E2F2oEwmGXRWJZDia3STdSFR0tJAvipNbixBmhCUl6NmRra14Mf6EDusG9Ym_JSSLZ4Sie_z0d3wGvgWl97vjY0Xpmem5_M8h4ol16O14ag3pufnsX19dsTK9JwwHzsKEP84LH3f-I5lBVFxQ2go1hLfcP0DNl60tMFYXuMCP-1-tM6MRLht-D4O-dh56xVxf8VSO6IJrbCgUBgFVkzBO1GI8uiMSeAVf0b9GwAA__-uP2U5">redcross.org/volunteertoday</a>&nbsp;and get started on what will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.&nbsp;

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy01uwyAQxfHTmB0WnzOwYJFNrhENMCRWbTkBq25vXyXq9vfevybl2VERnDQCGoxgUTxSU9EGT1A0BgTAEnJ22mOhzNFiFkuC6CHklo1yVG7aNLA1KBeCRmXN5NRYKn8tL7nRsnIfEmPOvmLLTf6crwPm9yDW9DiO52Qvk7lO5nqe59y5lr6PMe_9LjauC8nOK9NgudT0gds_TPZilA_Oi54e9Due-zgmp5juK3-Oc9k3MY7OvL1jZaC1yF560iydJi9jQJC1tWLBuUyoxXcyfwEAAP__xdZWDA">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy0tOwzAUheHV2DNHfj8GHlRIXQAbqK7t68aQkNYOBFg9asX0O-cvkRvUkClG4ayTLljl6ByVQ1tUkilLUbVXBoIWNRdeFGTDPW3RBmN9qklyDfkiZLWqeK69F44rSTQfreB7u7MV2oJ9MBdSMsXVVNn3cd_t9BjoEud9vxF1IvJM5Pk4jumlf_6-bm9wWrG3DB8wbf1KVywNWMcFYSBrJT7h8g9EnSQ3Xhva4ww_47aNnWiOcF3weZzyttKxd8T1EXNpaw1omAGBTAswLHhnWak1K6t1AifoV5R_AQAA__9Ri1mb">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

Resolve to make a difference in 2026; Help people in need as a Red Cross volunteer

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