How can you tell the ocean is friendly? Because it waves.

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

How can you tell the ocean is friendly? Because it waves.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 04/05/24

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Local and international barbershop singers are teaming up in harmony for the "We Believe in Music" show and fundraiser.

The Hays High Plains Barbershop Chapter will share the stage with the Tumbleweed Chorus, Prairie Timber, Uncalled Four and Big Creek Chorus on Saturday.

Headlining the 56th-annual show is "After Hours," a quartet that Vance Chartier, Hays High Plains Vice President for Public Relations, said is a distinguished group.

"After Hours are the elite of the elite among international barbershop quartets," he said.

<a href="https://www.afterhoursqt.com/">After Hours</a> won the 2018 Barbershop Harmony Society International Quartet Championship with the highest score in the organization's history at 94.7%.

Chartier said melodies performed will span from the mid to late 20th century.

"When you consider the old barbershop style songs, you have songs that range from the '40s up to the '90s," he said.

Featured songs include "I Believe in Music" by Mac Davis, "Let It Be" by the Beatles, "The Longest Time" by Billy Joel and "When She Loved Me" by Sarah McLachlan.

The show is scheduled for 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center at Fort Hays State University.

The Hays High Plains is kicking off the event that will fund various schools and organizations, including Hays-based Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.

"Our concert is our big money raiser," Chartier said. "Money we raise goes to supporting music programs in the surrounding area."

Students involved in the nonprofit are qualified for financial support regardless of their concentration.&nbsp;

"Anyone in the [Hays High Plains] chorus going to college or a technical school is eligible for a scholarship. We help them pursue their careers, and it doesn't have to be music," he said.

Tickets for the show are available for $15 in advance from any chorus member or at the following locations:

Tickers can also be bought at the Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center and <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/we-believe-in-music-tickets-770316787247">online</a>.

"It's going to be a great show, and we hope to see everybody there," Chartier said.

You can donate to the Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus by contacting Vance Chartier at 785-623-6746

You can also follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers/">Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ahquartet/">After Hours</a> on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712163544354.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostLocal and international barbershop singers are teaming up in harmony for the "We Believe in Music" show and fundraiser.The Hays High Plains Barbershop Chapter will share the stage with the Tumbleweed Chorus, Prairie Timber, Uncalled Four and Big Creek Chorus on Saturday.Headlining the 56th-annual show is "After Hours," a quartet that Vance Chartier, Hays High Plains Vice President for Public Relations, said is a distinguished group."After Hours are the elite of the elite among international barbershop quartets," he said.<a href="https://www.afterhoursqt.com/">After Hours</a> won the 2018 Barbershop Harmony Society International Quartet Championship with the highest score in the organization's history at 94.7%.Chartier said melodies performed will span from the mid to late 20th century."When you consider the old barbershop style songs, you have songs that range from the '40s up to the '90s," he said.Featured songs include "I Believe in Music" by Mac Davis, "Let It Be" by the Beatles, "The Longest Time" by Billy Joel and "When She Loved Me" by Sarah McLachlan.The show is scheduled for 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center at Fort Hays State University.The Hays High Plains is kicking off the event that will fund various schools and organizations, including Hays-based Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas."Our concert is our big money raiser," Chartier said. "Money we raise goes to supporting music programs in the surrounding area."Students involved in the nonprofit are qualified for financial support regardless of their concentration.&nbsp;"Anyone in the [Hays High Plains] chorus going to college or a technical school is eligible for a scholarship. We help them pursue their careers, and it doesn't have to be music," he said.Tickets for the show are available for $15 in advance from any chorus member or at the following locations:<ul>
 <li>Walgreens, 2600 Vine, Hays</li><li>Cerv's, 2701 Vine and 2722 Hall, Hays </li><li>&nbsp;Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine, Hays </li><li>Couture for Men, 1109 Main, Hays </li><li>Klema Hometown Market, 51 S. Fossil, Russell </li><li>Encore Antiques &amp; Collectibles, 590 S. Fossil, Russell </li><li>Farmers Bank &amp; Trust, 108 S. Main, Bazine </li>
 </ul>Tickers can also be bought at the Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center and <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/we-believe-in-music-tickets-770316787247">online</a>."It's going to be a great show, and we hope to see everybody there," Chartier said.You can donate to the Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus by contacting Vance Chartier at 785-623-6746You can also follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers/">Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ahquartet/">After Hours</a> on Facebook.

Hays barbershoppers prepare for 56th-annual show: 'We Believe in Music'

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712258763712.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </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

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Spring is here and the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau events calendar is crowded.

Melissa Dixon, executive director, takes a look at some of April's activities.

An up-to-the-minute events calendar is available on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSpring is here and the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau events calendar is crowded.Melissa Dixon, executive director, takes a look at some of April's activities.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DyLBbXQPFqY" title="CVB: April events in Hays" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712173208918.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An up-to-the-minute events calendar is available on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

🎥CVB: April events in Hays  

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Gene Beilman  of Hays.

Listen in at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. of 3 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX, 103.3 KJLS, 101.9 The Bull, 99.5 KZ Country, or 94.3 KAYS Monday through Friday during the month of April for your chance to win.&nbsp;

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Gene Beilman of Hays.He heard the code word on 103.3 KJLS.Listen in at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. of 3 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX, 103.3 KJLS, 101.9 The Bull, 99.5 KZ Country, or 94.3 KAYS Monday through Friday during the month of April for your chance to win.&nbsp;<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="ed5b4cd4-1179-4dd4-bb4c-60b7f958ee7b" data-routing="hash" data-script="cjdzex"></div>
<script defer src="https://embed-1036326.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-script="cjdzex">/**/</script></div>

Thursday's Cash Grab winner is....

What do you call a snail on a ship? A snailor!&nbsp;

What do you call a snail on a ship? A snailor!&nbsp;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 04/04/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712181356442.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Diana Ficken of Hays. 

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Diana Ficken of Hays. She heard the code word on KHAZ 99.5 FM.Listen in at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. of 3 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX, 103.3 KJLS, 101.9 The Bull, 99.5 KZ Country, or 94.3 KAYS Monday through Friday during the month of April for your chance to win.&nbsp;<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="47f5bd77-148f-42a1-bad7-a52bee2726ff" data-routing="hash" data-script="qyr0m4"></div>
<script defer src="https://embed-1036322.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-script="qyr0m4">/**/</script></div>

Wednesday's Cash Grab winner is....

The Hays
Regional Airport is pleased that the early morning United Express flight to
Denver will be returning, effective April 2, 2024. The new daily departure time will be
approximately 6:30 a.m., allowing for passengers to easily connect to flights at
the Denver International Airport (DEN). The evening flight arrival time in Hays
will be 11:06 p.m.

“The Hays Regional Airport is crucial
to our community’s economy by providing convenient travel options for leisure
and business travelers,” said Airport Director Jamie Salter. “We understand that
schedule and cost determine which airport customers choose, and we believe this
new schedule will make our local airport the most convenient by far for
travelers in our area.”

This summer, the daily flight to
Chicago (ORD) will also be replaced with a second flight to Denver. That flight
will depart at approximately 10:50 a.m. Please note that flight schedules are
subject to change.

All United Express flights in Hays
are operated by SkyWest Airlines.

In recent years, the Hays Regional
Airport has seen multiple upgrades and renovations that include an expanded
parking lot, lobby renovations with new seating, water bottle filling stations,
advertising opportunities throughout the building, and a renovated conference
room. Parking is always free.

For more information on Hays Regional
Airport and its services, visit FlyHays.com. To book a flight from Hays, go to
united.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712080095171.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays
Regional Airport is pleased that the early morning United Express flight to
Denver will be returning, effective April 2, 2024. The new daily departure time will be
approximately 6:30 a.m., allowing for passengers to easily connect to flights at
the Denver International Airport (DEN). The evening flight arrival time in Hays
will be 11:06 p.m.“The Hays Regional Airport is crucial
to our community’s economy by providing convenient travel options for leisure
and business travelers,” said Airport Director Jamie Salter. “We understand that
schedule and cost determine which airport customers choose, and we believe this
new schedule will make our local airport the most convenient by far for
travelers in our area.”This summer, the daily flight to
Chicago (ORD) will also be replaced with a second flight to Denver. That flight
will depart at approximately 10:50 a.m. Please note that flight schedules are
subject to change.All United Express flights in Hays
are operated by SkyWest Airlines.In recent years, the Hays Regional
Airport has seen multiple upgrades and renovations that include an expanded
parking lot, lobby renovations with new seating, water bottle filling stations,
advertising opportunities throughout the building, and a renovated conference
room. Parking is always free.For more information on Hays Regional
Airport and its services, visit FlyHays.com. To book a flight from Hays, go to
united.com.

Early flights return to Hays Regional Airport

Did you hear about the racing snail who got rid of his shell? He thought it would make him faster, but it just made him sluggish.

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

Did you hear about the racing snail who got rid of his shell? He thought it would make him faster, but it just made him sluggish.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 04/03/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712079890489.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

What kind of plant grows on your hand? A palm tree.

What kind of plant grows on your hand? A palm tree.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 04/02/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1711995273396.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Two good ole boys, Bubba and Johnny Ray, were sittin’ on the front porch when a large truck hauling rolls and rolls of sod went by. “I’m gonna do that when I win the lottery,” said Bubba. “Do what?” asked Johnny Ray. “Send my grass out to be mowed,” answered Bubba.

Two good ole boys, Bubba and Johnny Ray, were sittin’ on the front porch when a large truck hauling rolls and rolls of sod went by. “I’m gonna do that when I win the lottery,” said Bubba. “Do what?” asked Johnny Ray. “Send my grass out to be mowed,” answered Bubba.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 04/01/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711906240741.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711825772464.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </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 new Barton Community College President Marcus Garstecki.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eWEFnvTX8pw?si=nBsAhPwpTGtLnc8V" 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 new Barton Community College President Marcus Garstecki.

🎤Forward Ever: New Barton Community College President Marcus Garstecki

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711738559442.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

The Flying Bison Disc Golf Course, Hays Frontier Park, turned 40 years old last September.

At 4 p.m. April 2, the Chamber in Hays will host a ribbon cutting ceremony in the Frontier Park west shelter house with refreshments and a disc golf clinic.

The Flying Bison Disc Golf Club, Defiance Brewing Company and the city of Hays are also celebrating with a very unique beer festival. 

At 2 p.m. April 13, twelve Kansas brewery teams will tee off for the “Brewers Cup” in Frontier Park. Check-in for the event is from noon-1:30 p.m. Three exhibition cards will also be featured.

Tickets are being sold for the public to attend the beer festival and watch the competition. There will be four beer sampling stations located on the course.

Around 30 different craft beers will be available to sample. General Admission tickets are $45 and can be purchased at the website <a href="https://www.discgolfscene.com/">www.discgolfscene.com</a>.

The course, located in Frontier Park, is the oldest 18-hole course in the state of Kansas. It is also host to the longest running Professional Disc Golf Association sanctioned event in the state. All proceeds will be split to benefit the Kansas Disc&nbsp;Golf Association's annual Food Drive Event Discs and the Kansas Craft Brewers Guild. The KDGA raised $31,733 and 2,722 non-perishable items for food banks across the state last season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711475443595.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Flying Bison Disc Golf Course, Hays Frontier Park, turned 40 years old last September.At 4 p.m. April 2, the Chamber in Hays will host a ribbon cutting ceremony in the Frontier Park west shelter house with refreshments and a disc golf clinic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711489061352.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Flying Bison Disc Golf Club, Defiance Brewing Company and the city of Hays are also celebrating with a very unique beer festival. At 2 p.m. April 13, twelve Kansas brewery teams will tee off for the “Brewers Cup” in Frontier Park. Check-in for the event is from noon-1:30 p.m. Three exhibition cards will also be featured.Tickets are being sold for the public to attend the beer festival and watch the competition. There will be four beer sampling stations located on the course.Around 30 different craft beers will be available to sample. General Admission tickets are $45 and can be purchased at the website <a href="https://www.discgolfscene.com/">www.discgolfscene.com</a>.The course, located in Frontier Park, is the oldest 18-hole course in the state of Kansas. It is also host to the longest running Professional Disc Golf Association sanctioned event in the state. All proceeds will be split to benefit the Kansas Disc&nbsp;Golf Association's annual Food Drive Event Discs and the Kansas Craft Brewers Guild. The KDGA raised $31,733 and 2,722 non-perishable items for food banks across the state last season.

Hays' Flying Bison Disc Golf Course celebrates 40-year milestone

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711649228350.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711558946569.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

It was a short five-minute work session for Hays city commissioners last Thursday afternoon.

The sole agenda item was the first step in creating a reinvestment housing incentive district for The Grove development to be built north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive.

Plans include 12 six-plex structures, eight duplexes, 50 single-family homes, and infrastructure to support and serve the development.

The commission agreed to move on a resolution to their <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03212024-1472">March 28&nbsp; meeting</a> for making certain housing needs findings and determinations.

"What that does is show the state there is a shortage of quality housing in Hays and that scenario is expected to continue," said Finance Director Kim Rupp.

"What is out of the norm is asking the city to finance the project with revenue bonds," he said.

Grow Hays is asking that the city finance and construct the infrastructure related to the project, by utilizing incentive district  revenues.

If the district is created, the fund would collect incremental property tax revenues for a maximum period of 25 years. Grow Hays estimates the incentive district would generate approximately $8.425 million in revenues.&nbsp;

"This state tool, what it does is, you've got a wheat field right now that's generating $200 a year in property tax," Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director said on Friday.

"When it's built out and has 50 houses on it, it's generating $150,000 a year in property tax. The RHID allows the developer to catch a significant portion of that increment ... until they have recovered their eligible costs for the development."&nbsp;

A 20-minute executive session was called at the end of the meeting for discussion of acquisition of real property. No action was taken afterwards.

Commissioner Mason Ruder was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711125026070.png" alt="Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="RHID proposed for The Grove project" 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=akpdx-15c32ce-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 PostIt was a short five-minute work session for Hays city commissioners last Thursday afternoon.The sole agenda item was the first step in creating a reinvestment housing incentive district for The Grove development to be built north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive.Plans include 12 six-plex structures, eight duplexes, 50 single-family homes, and infrastructure to support and serve the development.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711466449227.png" alt="Patio home examples that would be built in The Grove. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Patio home examples that would be built in The Grove. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission agreed to move on a resolution to their <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03212024-1472">March 28&nbsp; meeting</a> for making certain housing needs findings and determinations."What that does is show the state there is a shortage of quality housing in Hays and that scenario is expected to continue," said Finance Director Kim Rupp."What is out of the norm is asking the city to finance the project with revenue bonds," he said.Grow Hays is asking that the city finance and construct the infrastructure related to the project, by utilizing incentive district revenues.If the district is created, the fund would collect incremental property tax revenues for a maximum period of 25 years. Grow Hays estimates the incentive district would generate approximately $8.425 million in revenues.&nbsp;"This state tool, what it does is, you've got a wheat field right now that's generating $200 a year in property tax," Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director said on Friday. "When it's built out and has 50 houses on it, it's generating $150,000 a year in property tax. The RHID allows the developer to catch a significant portion of that increment ... until they have recovered their eligible costs for the development."&nbsp;A 20-minute executive session was called at the end of the meeting for discussion of acquisition of real property. No action was taken afterwards.Commissioner Mason Ruder was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

🎙 Hays city commission hears reinvestment proposal for Grove housing district    

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Rural Ellis County voters will get their opportunity later
this year to vote on whether their tax dollars will go only to support
libraries in Ellis County or if that money will continue to be distributed
across north-central Kansas. 

Last week the Ellis County Commission approved in a 3-0
vote, putting the question “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?” before rural voters on the August 6, 2024 ballot.

Commissioner Michael Berges stressed that the tax would
continue to be collected but instead of the taxes going to the Central Kansas
Library System (CKLS) and then distributed back to the 17 counties that are a
part of that system, the money would stay in Ellis County.

“The taxing would be essentially the same,” Berges said. &nbsp;If the Ellis County Library were to be
approved, “The $300,000 is just collected within our own county board (and) they
(would) determine how they want to provide library services through the current
libraries that we have within the county.”

Berges, who joined the KAYS Morning show last week, talked
about the proposal and what a complicated issue it is.

“We really won't know all the answers that people want
because depending on the resolution vote, it could take up to two years to finalize
a county library,” Berges said. 

Berges said a lot of the feedback that he has received is
asking questions that the county cannot answer until the measure goes before
voters, so the first step in the process is to approve the resolution and see
what the voters want.

“If the voters want to continue on the current use of the Central
Kansas Library System, then that's their choice and we continue down that path,”
Berges said. “But if the voters were to move to an Ellis County Library, then
there's a two year process still, that also still includes the state, and
whether they would allow us to opt out anyway.”

Berges, who previously served on the Hays City Commission
said this is an issue that he has been aware of for many years.

Only residents who live in Victoria and rural Ellis County currently will be affected by the proposal and allowed to vote on the resolution.

Both the cities of Hays and Ellis already collect taxes to
fund their respective public libraries. 

Residents of Victoria and rural Ellis County are currently paying a 1.5 mill collected for the Central Kansas Public Library.

Residents in all areas of the CKLS are also taxed at the 1.5
mill or about $150 on $100,000 worth of property rate but as Berges pointed out
those funds are then split among the 17-county area. 

“That worked fine and well in the '60s and '70s,” Berges said.
“When all these counties out here were populated relatively closely. The
valuations were similar.”

Both Ellis and Saline Counties in the CKLS continue to grow
while the other counties are not and both counties are seeing the amount of
funding they receive shrink.

“Ellis County residents are continuously paying more into
the Central Kansas Library System because our valuations are going up; we have
more people and the amount that we receive back, right now it's less than a
third,” Berges said. “So, if you pay $150 in, the Central Kansas Library system
sends about $50 back to Ellis County libraries.”

The Hays Public Library and the Ellis Public Library are
both members of the CKLS and receive funding from the system but Brandon Hines,
the director of the Hays Public Library said they are seeing less funding each
year.

Hines told the commission he sees the CKLS as an important
part of rural communities and that they are in no way attempting to be the only
library in Ellis County.

“Library services to our rural communities is very important,”
Hines said. “Ellis already has a library, we think this change could actually
increase their funding, increase their resources in the future.”

Because Victoria does not have a public library, Hines estimated
the Hays Public Library has 450 cardholders from Victoria and they believe they
could extend services to Victoria, if the Ellis County Library is approved. 

Berges also stressed that they see this as a benefit for the
Ellis Public Library and access to the Ellis Public Library is not going anywhere.
Hines also stressed that to the county commission.

“Absolutely, there needs to be a public library in Ellis,”
Hines who is an Ellis resident, said. “There's no intention of the Hays Public Library
being the only library in the county.”

The City of Ellis and the Ellis Public Library are currently
considering whether to remain separate from the proposed Ellis County Library
or opt in.

If they choose to remain separate, the funding remains the
same. They will still receive funds from the CKLS and the library will be funded
through local property taxes, just like the Hays Public Library.

If they elect to opt in to the Ellis County Library, the
voters in Ellis would also get to vote on the resolution and they would have
representation on the Ellis County Library Board.

Hines said that if the resolution is approved by voters the
process is already laid out by state statue.

“There would be a five member board, and it would be from
the taxing district,” Hines said. “So, if that taxing district was outside the
city limits of Hays, and outside the city limits of Ellis, it would be five
members from that taxing district. If Ellis decided to opt in or Hays decided
to opt in, it would also include that taxing district, but that board would be
appointed by the county commission.”

The board would set the mill levy and have control over the
library budget and contracts.

Both Hines and Berges reiterated that it is a very complicated
process and that they cannot answer all of the questions until voters weigh in
on the initial question, which is “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?”

Berges said, “The dividing line is if you feel the current
system works, and the libraries you feel are funded fine the way that is, vote
no and it remains,” Berges said. “If you feel like the opportunity is, ‘I
believe those tax dollars staying more local, and allowing local five board
members to make decisions for my tax dollars, (then vote yes),” Berges said. 

“I believe you would have a little bit more influence as citizens,
influence on your county and city commissioners on different topics,” Berges
said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704732367210.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostRural Ellis County voters will get their opportunity later
this year to vote on whether their tax dollars will go only to support
libraries in Ellis County or if that money will continue to be distributed
across north-central Kansas. Last week the Ellis County Commission approved in a 3-0
vote, putting the question “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?” before rural voters on the August 6, 2024 ballot.Commissioner Michael Berges stressed that the tax would
continue to be collected but instead of the taxes going to the Central Kansas
Library System (CKLS) and then distributed back to the 17 counties that are a
part of that system, the money would stay in Ellis County.<div><iframe title="Ellis County Commission sends library question to voters" 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=i79vr-15c33a5-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>“The taxing would be essentially the same,” Berges said. &nbsp;If the Ellis County Library were to be
approved, “The $300,000 is just collected within our own county board (and) they
(would) determine how they want to provide library services through the current
libraries that we have within the county.”Berges, who joined the KAYS Morning show last week, talked
about the proposal and what a complicated issue it is.“We really won't know all the answers that people want
because depending on the resolution vote, it could take up to two years to finalize
a county library,” Berges said. Berges said a lot of the feedback that he has received is
asking questions that the county cannot answer until the measure goes before
voters, so the first step in the process is to approve the resolution and see
what the voters want.“If the voters want to continue on the current use of the Central
Kansas Library System, then that's their choice and we continue down that path,”
Berges said. “But if the voters were to move to an Ellis County Library, then
there's a two year process still, that also still includes the state, and
whether they would allow us to opt out anyway.”Berges, who previously served on the Hays City Commission
said this is an issue that he has been aware of for many years.Only residents who live in Victoria and rural Ellis County currently will be affected by the proposal and allowed to vote on the resolution.Both the cities of Hays and Ellis already collect taxes to
fund their respective public libraries. Residents of Victoria and rural Ellis County are currently paying a 1.5 mill collected for the Central Kansas Public Library.Residents in all areas of the CKLS are also taxed at the 1.5
mill or about $150 on $100,000 worth of property rate but as Berges pointed out
those funds are then split among the 17-county area. “That worked fine and well in the '60s and '70s,” Berges said.
“When all these counties out here were populated relatively closely. The
valuations were similar.”Both Ellis and Saline Counties in the CKLS continue to grow
while the other counties are not and both counties are seeing the amount of
funding they receive shrink.“Ellis County residents are continuously paying more into
the Central Kansas Library System because our valuations are going up; we have
more people and the amount that we receive back, right now it's less than a
third,” Berges said. “So, if you pay $150 in, the Central Kansas Library system
sends about $50 back to Ellis County libraries.”The Hays Public Library and the Ellis Public Library are
both members of the CKLS and receive funding from the system but Brandon Hines,
the director of the Hays Public Library said they are seeing less funding each
year.Hines told the commission he sees the CKLS as an important
part of rural communities and that they are in no way attempting to be the only
library in Ellis County.“Library services to our rural communities is very important,”
Hines said. “Ellis already has a library, we think this change could actually
increase their funding, increase their resources in the future.”Because Victoria does not have a public library, Hines estimated
the Hays Public Library has 450 cardholders from Victoria and they believe they
could extend services to Victoria, if the Ellis County Library is approved. Berges also stressed that they see this as a benefit for the
Ellis Public Library and access to the Ellis Public Library is not going anywhere.
Hines also stressed that to the county commission.“Absolutely, there needs to be a public library in Ellis,”
Hines who is an Ellis resident, said. “There's no intention of the Hays Public Library
being the only library in the county.”The City of Ellis and the Ellis Public Library are currently
considering whether to remain separate from the proposed Ellis County Library
or opt in.If they choose to remain separate, the funding remains the
same. They will still receive funds from the CKLS and the library will be funded
through local property taxes, just like the Hays Public Library.If they elect to opt in to the Ellis County Library, the
voters in Ellis would also get to vote on the resolution and they would have
representation on the Ellis County Library Board.Hines said that if the resolution is approved by voters the
process is already laid out by state statue.“There would be a five member board, and it would be from
the taxing district,” Hines said. “So, if that taxing district was outside the
city limits of Hays, and outside the city limits of Ellis, it would be five
members from that taxing district. If Ellis decided to opt in or Hays decided
to opt in, it would also include that taxing district, but that board would be
appointed by the county commission.”The board would set the mill levy and have control over the
library budget and contracts.Both Hines and Berges reiterated that it is a very complicated
process and that they cannot answer all of the questions until voters weigh in
on the initial question, which is “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?”Berges said, “The dividing line is if you feel the current
system works, and the libraries you feel are funded fine the way that is, vote
no and it remains,” Berges said. “If you feel like the opportunity is, ‘I
believe those tax dollars staying more local, and allowing local five board
members to make decisions for my tax dollars, (then vote yes),” Berges said. “I believe you would have a little bit more influence as citizens,
influence on your county and city commissioners on different topics,” Berges
said.

🎙 Ellis County Commission sends library question to voters

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711479596523.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature&nbsp;Dr. Troy Moore with the Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic.&nbsp; This episode will air&nbsp;Tuesday, March 26th at 7 PM&nbsp;and will focus on PHYSICAL THERAPY.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;

The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

SubmittedBUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature&nbsp;Dr. Troy Moore with the Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic.&nbsp; This episode will air&nbsp;Tuesday, March 26th at 7 PM&nbsp;and will focus on PHYSICAL THERAPY.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

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