A shy priest greets the wedding guests to the Chapel. He’s very nervous and doesn’t say much. As the couple approach the altar the priest steps up and gives the best speech anyone has ever heard. He’s full of confidence, incredibly expressive and has everyone in fits of laughter! After the vows, the priest is extremely shy and barely says a word to anyone. The groom approaches the him and asks, “Why are you so shy? You seemed like a different person when you were giving that speech!” “I know…” Says the priest, “but that was just my altar ego”.

Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

A shy priest greets the wedding guests to the Chapel. He’s very nervous and doesn’t say much. As the couple approach the altar the priest steps up and gives the best speech anyone has ever heard. He’s full of confidence, incredibly expressive and has everyone in fits of laughter! After the vows, the priest is extremely shy and barely says a word to anyone. The groom approaches the him and asks, “Why are you so shy? You seemed like a different person when you were giving that speech!” “I know…” Says the priest, “but that was just my altar ego”.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 09/03/24

What’s in a name? We want you to tell us! The Ellis County Historical Society (ECHS) is excited to announce a naming contest for our new center at St. John’s Place in Victoria. We’ve been calling it our sister-site and our heritage center, but we’re looking for a name that truly captures the imagination—and we need your help!

This center will be a vibrant tribute to our rich history, highlighting our Volga German Heritage, all immigrants to Ellis County, area churches and villages, Walker Army Airfield, Angus cattle ranching in the U.S., the oil industry in Ellis County, and Western Kansas agriculture. As we continue the redevelopment of this site, we want a name that grabs the attention of both locals and tourists, conveying the importance of our history and culture.

Think you’ve got the perfect name? We’d love to hear it! Join us in making history by contributing a name that will represent the heart and soul of our community.

Submit your ideas and let’s create something memorable together!

<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ECHSvictoriaSITEname">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ECHSvictoriaSITEname</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660869675268.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Ellis Co. Historical Society asks public to help name new heritage center" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9h9t4-16bfc22-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>SubmittedWhat’s in a name? We want you to tell us! The Ellis County Historical Society (ECHS) is excited to announce a naming contest for our new center at St. John’s Place in Victoria. We’ve been calling it our sister-site and our heritage center, but we’re looking for a name that truly captures the imagination—and we need your help!This center will be a vibrant tribute to our rich history, highlighting our Volga German Heritage, all immigrants to Ellis County, area churches and villages, Walker Army Airfield, Angus cattle ranching in the U.S., the oil industry in Ellis County, and Western Kansas agriculture. As we continue the redevelopment of this site, we want a name that grabs the attention of both locals and tourists, conveying the importance of our history and culture.Think you’ve got the perfect name? We’d love to hear it! Join us in making history by contributing a name that will represent the heart and soul of our community.Submit your ideas and let’s create something memorable together!<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ECHSvictoriaSITEname">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ECHSvictoriaSITEname</a>

🎙 Ellis Co. Historical Society asks public to help name new heritage center

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

<figure>
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 </figure><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

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about the mission of Grow Hays in Ellis County.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses organization's mission" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i6ecz-16bfc5d-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about the mission of Grow Hays in Ellis County.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses organization's mission

&nbsp;The WPAA (Western Plains Arts Association) will be starting our ’24-’25 season off at the Oakley High School Auditorium on Sunday, September 15 at 3:00 p.m.

The first program,&nbsp; “Blackwater Draw”, a new cutting edge group of young musicians/singers from Texas will open our season with a bang!

Admission is by season ticket or at the door. Special discount for groups of ten or more students:&nbsp; $5 per student.

This season’s programs are made possible through the generosity of area businesses, individual donors and a season grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Submitted&nbsp;The WPAA (Western Plains Arts Association) will be starting our ’24-’25 season off at the Oakley High School Auditorium on Sunday, September 15 at 3:00 p.m.The first program,&nbsp; “Blackwater Draw”, a new cutting edge group of young musicians/singers from Texas will open our season with a bang!Admission is by season ticket or at the door. Special discount for groups of ten or more students:&nbsp; $5 per student.This season’s programs are made possible through the generosity of area businesses, individual donors and a season grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Western Plains Arts Association kicks off season Sept. 15

Go Truck Go set for Sept. 5

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

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

Smoky Hills PBS is pleased to announce the airing of a special documentary produced by Fort Hays State University, focusing on the important and often overlooked world of custom harvesting. The documentary, set to air on September 3rd at 7:30 PM, will offer viewers an in-depth look at the lives and work of those who help bring in the harvest across the Midwest and beyond.

The new Tiger Media Network documentary, “Life On The Harvest Run,” explores the lives of two custom harvesting families from Kansas and what their summers on the harvest run are like. Tiger Media Network’s summer interns — Ryan Schuckman, Raegan Neufeld and John Billinger — interviewed the Befort family from Hays and the Froese family from Inman.

The Fort Hays State University students interviewed active and retired custom harvesters to get a mix of present and past perspectives. Interviewees ranged from 20 to 91 years old.

To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS LLS Channel, DirecTV, Dish Network, LocalNow app, YouTube TV, HULU+LIVE TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. For more information, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org or call 1-800-337-4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724778673040.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSmoky Hills PBS is pleased to announce the airing of a special documentary produced by Fort Hays State University, focusing on the important and often overlooked world of custom harvesting. The documentary, set to air on September 3rd at 7:30 PM, will offer viewers an in-depth look at the lives and work of those who help bring in the harvest across the Midwest and beyond.The new Tiger Media Network documentary, “Life On The Harvest Run,” explores the lives of two custom harvesting families from Kansas and what their summers on the harvest run are like. Tiger Media Network’s summer interns — Ryan Schuckman, Raegan Neufeld and John Billinger — interviewed the Befort family from Hays and the Froese family from Inman.The Fort Hays State University students interviewed active and retired custom harvesters to get a mix of present and past perspectives. Interviewees ranged from 20 to 91 years old.Air Times:Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 7:30 PMWednesday, Sept. 4 at 2:30 PMThursday, Sept. 26 at 2 PMWays to Watch:To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS LLS Channel, DirecTV, Dish Network, LocalNow app, YouTube TV, HULU+LIVE TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. For more information, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org or call 1-800-337-4788.

Smoky Hills PBS to air FHSU documentary on custom harvesting

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725052356496.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Judge Tommy Webb.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/toeed9oN0ik?si=Pq2NXG8GGlbXhy_3" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Judge Tommy Webb.

🎤Forward Ever: Judge Tommy Webb

A horse walks into a bar. The bartender says, “Hey!” The horse replies, “Sure.”

A horse walks into a bar. The bartender says, “Hey!” The horse replies, “Sure.”Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/30/24

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

What happened to the wooden car with wooden wheels and a wooden engine? It wooden go!

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

What happened to the wooden car with wooden wheels and a wooden engine? It wooden go!Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/29/24

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

Why did the french fry finish last in the potato race? He couldn’t ketchup.

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

Why did the french fry finish last in the potato race? He couldn’t ketchup.
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/28/24

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

A hiker stumbles upon a golden lamp in the forest. He rubs it and out pops a real-life genie.“In return for freeing me, ” says the genie, “I will grant you three wishes.”“I want a million more wishes,” the hiker says immediately.“Rule number one: No asking for more wishes.”The hiker considers his options before replying, “In that case, I want a million more genies.”&nbsp;Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/27/24

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Employment Connections program is a service at Hays-based Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas dedicated to creating meaningful job opportunities for individuals ages 18 and older across the 18 counties of northwest Kansas.

The popular program has been in place for more than 50 years, said LaVonne Giess, DSNWK employment services manager.

"We help individuals with all types of disabilities with the opportunity to work," she said.&nbsp; "If they want to work, and that is their goal, then we are going to make that happen."

Work services is a group of individuals with a working supervisor who goes to the job site, where they complete a set amount of work.

"We have a lawn crew. We have a snow removal crew. We clean the [Hays Regional] airport Monday through Friday. We've been doing that for over 20 years," Giess said.&nbsp;

"We clean the respirators at Enersys and put them back in their lockers. We've been there for more than 20 years."

DSNWK crews also perform janitorial work and help move households.&nbsp;

Giess is proud that her crews never call in sick.

"A lot of the workforce struggles with that. We don't have that problem with work services. We always have people that are subs that can go in and cover for someone else, or staff steps in and covers."

Employment Connections also offers community employment for individuals.

From job assessment and development to training and long-term support, Employment Connections' mission is to help individuals gain the necessary skills and secure competitive employment.

"We look at what kind of job they want to do, what are their skill sets, and what they need help with," Giess said.

Employment Connections staff members work closely with local businesses to match clients with roles that fit their skills and goals and meet the hiring needs of northwest Kansas communities.

"We go with our clients to help them fill out applications and go through the job interview,"&nbsp;Giess said.

Once a client is hired, staff provide job coaching and training on-site.&nbsp;

"We'll do a task analysis," Giess said. "Maybe one of our clients needs a picture board if they struggle with reading, things like that, whatever adaptations might be needed."

DSNWK individuals have worked for many Hays businesses, including Xibit Customs, Bright Minds Academy, Walmart, Good Samaritan Society, Cross Manufacturing, Master Cleaners and McDonalds, for a long time.

The jobs, mostly part-time, include dishwashing, food preparation, child care, car detailing, shelf stocking, assembly, cashier and laundry.

"Just a wide, wide range of opportunity. We're all over this community, " she said.

DSNWK participants in Employee Connections have bills to pay just like we all do, Giess said.

"Many of them live in their own apartments," Giess said. "They've got to pay that rent. They like to go out to eat. They like to go to activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They're a very, very important part of our community."

Businesses interested in hiring people in northwest Kansas through Employment Connections can get more information on the DSNWK website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2oWW_ovrkXFLDU2j59t7DrDf8mzH98FTchDGkwF1PGiDxgc-4IddzwnB8_aem_zWB2hP8UQX-_ivzJIYEWqQ" target="_blank">https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724341420571.jpeg" alt="A DSNWK work services client cleans the Hays Regional Airport. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A DSNWK work services client cleans the Hays Regional Airport. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Chamber, DSNWK discuss workforce development" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=h64s3-16b2d09-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Employment Connections program is a service at Hays-based Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas dedicated to creating meaningful job opportunities for individuals ages 18 and older across the 18 counties of northwest Kansas.The popular program has been in place for more than 50 years, said LaVonne Giess, DSNWK employment services manager."We help individuals with all types of disabilities with the opportunity to work," she said.&nbsp; "If they want to work, and that is their goal, then we are going to make that happen."There are two types of services offered.Work services is a group of individuals with a working supervisor who goes to the job site, where they complete a set amount of work."We have a lawn crew. We have a snow removal crew. We clean the [Hays Regional] airport Monday through Friday. We've been doing that for over 20 years," Giess said.&nbsp;"We clean the respirators at Enersys and put them back in their lockers. We've been there for more than 20 years."DSNWK crews also perform janitorial work and help move households.&nbsp;Giess is proud that her crews never call in sick."A lot of the workforce struggles with that. We don't have that problem with work services. We always have people that are subs that can go in and cover for someone else, or staff steps in and covers."Employment Connections also offers community employment for individuals.From job assessment and development to training and long-term support, Employment Connections' mission is to help individuals gain the necessary skills and secure competitive employment."We look at what kind of job they want to do, what are their skill sets, and what they need help with," Giess said.Employment Connections staff members work closely with local businesses to match clients with roles that fit their skills and goals and meet the hiring needs of northwest Kansas communities."We go with our clients to help them fill out applications and go through the job interview,"&nbsp;Giess said.Once a client is hired, staff provide job coaching and training on-site.&nbsp;"We'll do a task analysis," Giess said. "Maybe one of our clients needs a picture board if they struggle with reading, things like that, whatever adaptations might be needed."DSNWK individuals have worked for many Hays businesses, including Xibit Customs, Bright Minds Academy, Walmart, Good Samaritan Society, Cross Manufacturing, Master Cleaners and McDonalds, for a long time.The jobs, mostly part-time, include dishwashing, food preparation, child care, car detailing, shelf stocking, assembly, cashier and laundry."Just a wide, wide range of opportunity. We're all over this community, " she said.DSNWK participants in Employee Connections have bills to pay just like we all do, Giess said."Many of them live in their own apartments," Giess said. "They've got to pay that rent. They like to go out to eat. They like to go to activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;"They're a very, very important part of our community."Businesses interested in hiring people in northwest Kansas through Employment Connections can get more information on the DSNWK website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2oWW_ovrkXFLDU2j59t7DrDf8mzH98FTchDGkwF1PGiDxgc-4IddzwnB8_aem_zWB2hP8UQX-_ivzJIYEWqQ" target="_blank">https://www.mydsnwk.org/what-we-do/employment-connections</a>.

🎙DSNWK Employment Connections offers all individuals opportunity to work

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

What did the teacher say to the bad spud? You’ll never sprout to anything.

What did the teacher say to the bad spud? You’ll never sprout to anything.
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/26/24

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

The annual Dog Swim was hosted over the weekend at the Hays Aquatic Park. 

Take a look at this annual tradition that wraps up the summer swimming season in Hays below.

Hays Post The annual Dog Swim was hosted over the weekend at the Hays Aquatic Park. Take a look at this annual tradition that wraps up the summer swimming season in Hays below.<figure>
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Stop, Sit, Swim: A look at Hays Aquatic Park's annual dog swim

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

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Various funding mechanisms for proposed new housing developments and business expansions were all approved at Thursday's Hay City Commission meeting.

The city’s first-ever Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) was established in the Tallgrass Addition in 2020 and is nearly fully occupied. 

Local economic development interest group, Heart of America (HOA), was the developer.

Realizing the continued need for new housing, HOA asked Hays to cash-out its position by assigning future RHID revenues to the city in exchange for a $2.5 million economic grant. The trade will allow HOA to continue developing additional housing of Tallgrass Phase 4 just north of the current project.&nbsp;

Bonds will be issued to finance the economic development grant as well as the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/292e6398-09de-4575-8f00-59772bbb0c0c">advanced water metering infrastructure.&nbsp;</a>

The city signed intents to issue industrial revenue bonds for rehabilitation of a vacant building at 11th and Main by local developer Adam Pray and expansion of Gella's Diner and Liquid Bread Brewing Company, LLC on East 11th.

Pray is developing a former bank building into Chestnut Suites, high-end hotel housing for short and long-term visitors to downtown Hays. Gella's will be adding an event space and an area for Fort Hays Tech-North Central culinary classes.

Also approved was a resolution to set a Sept. 26 public hearing for establishing an RHID for the Depot Addition housing at 10th and Walnut in downtown Hays. The private developer is Hays resident Michael Graham.

Fees will be going up for most admissions to the golf course, resulting in an estimated $24,000 in additional annual revenue.&nbsp; The card shed fee will remain the same.

"This should close our revenue gap about half way," said Jeff Boyle, director of parks.

Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course 9-Hole — $17 18-Hole Weekday — $23 18-Hole Weekend/Holiday — $26 Annual Single Membership — $575 Annual Couple Membership — $720 Annual Family Membership — $740 Trail Fee&nbsp;— $220

Hays Aquatic Park Daily Fee&nbsp;— $5 Season Pass — $53

Commissioners also agreed to an increase in daily admission to the Hays Aquatic Park and for a season pass. The daily entrance fee to the neighborhood Wilson Pool will remain the same.

Additional estimated revenue is $15,000 a year, also narrowing the operating gap.&nbsp;

Both the aquatic park and golf course are considered quality-of-life amenities and not necessarily money-makers for the city. The commission will assess the fees again in 2027.

The low bid from T&amp;T Builders, Hays,&nbsp; of $16,500 for Hays Aquatic Park concrete repairs was also approved.&nbsp;

Monthly updates about city department projects and upcoming events were also presented.&nbsp;

Toby Dougherty, city manager, was absent from the meeting.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure> By BECKY KISER Hays Post<div><iframe title="New Hays housing, business developments okayed for economic development incentives" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=k242m-16af48f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Various funding mechanisms for proposed new housing developments and business expansions were all approved at Thursday's Hay City Commission meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724445286908.png" alt="Proposed Phase 4 of Tallgrass Housing Development 2nd Addition. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Phase 4 of Tallgrass Housing Development 2nd Addition. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The city’s first-ever Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) was established in the Tallgrass Addition in 2020 and is nearly fully occupied. Local economic development interest group, Heart of America (HOA), was the developer.Realizing the continued need for new housing, HOA asked Hays to cash-out its position by assigning future RHID revenues to the city in exchange for a $2.5 million economic grant. The trade will allow HOA to continue developing additional housing of Tallgrass Phase 4 just north of the current project.&nbsp;Bonds will be issued to finance the economic development grant as well as the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/292e6398-09de-4575-8f00-59772bbb0c0c">advanced water metering infrastructure.&nbsp;</a>The city signed intents to issue industrial revenue bonds for rehabilitation of a vacant building at 11th and Main by local developer Adam Pray and expansion of Gella's Diner and Liquid Bread Brewing Company, LLC on East 11th.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724445387367.jpeg" alt="Chestnut Suites LLC is planned for 1108 N. Main. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Chestnut Suites LLC is planned for 1108 N. Main. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723839401844.png" alt="Proposed expansion of Gella's Diner at 121 E. 11th, immediately east of the restaurant and brewery. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Proposed expansion of Gella's Diner at 121 E. 11th, immediately east of the restaurant and brewery. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Pray is developing a former bank building into Chestnut Suites, high-end hotel housing for short and long-term visitors to downtown Hays. Gella's will be adding an event space and an area for Fort Hays Tech-North Central culinary classes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723838456647.png" alt="Artist's concept of Depot Addition, 10th and Walnut." />
 <figcaption>Artist's concept of Depot Addition, 10th and Walnut.</figcaption>
 </figure>Also approved was a resolution to set a Sept. 26 public hearing for establishing an RHID for the Depot Addition housing at 10th and Walnut in downtown Hays. The private developer is Hays resident Michael Graham.Fees will be going up for most admissions to the golf course, resulting in an estimated $24,000 in additional annual revenue.&nbsp; The card shed fee will remain the same."This should close our revenue gap about half way," said Jeff Boyle, director of parks.Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course 9-Hole — $17 18-Hole Weekday — $23 18-Hole Weekend/Holiday — $26 Annual Single Membership — $575 Annual Couple Membership — $720 Annual Family Membership — $740 Trail Fee&nbsp;— $220Hays Aquatic Park Daily Fee&nbsp;— $5 Season Pass — $53Commissioners also agreed to an increase in daily admission to the Hays Aquatic Park and for a season pass. The daily entrance fee to the neighborhood Wilson Pool will remain the same.Additional estimated revenue is $15,000 a year, also narrowing the operating gap.&nbsp;Both the aquatic park and golf course are considered quality-of-life amenities and not necessarily money-makers for the city. The commission will assess the fees again in 2027.The low bid from T&amp;T Builders, Hays,&nbsp; of $16,500 for Hays Aquatic Park concrete repairs was also approved.&nbsp;Monthly updates about city department projects and upcoming events were also presented.&nbsp;Toby Dougherty, city manager, was absent from the meeting.

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