<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/2025/6/1750340907098.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 CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of a new wheelchair-accessible school bus on Monday.

The low bid was from Kansas Truck for $149,000.

The purchase is part of the school district's five-year transportation plan.

The board did not approve a proposal to purchase&nbsp;$80,938 worth of new video equipment for the district boardroom. The equipment would have been moved to Wilson School when the district vacates Rockwell Administration Center at the completion of the bond projects.

School board members said they would like to revisit the purchase when the administration moves into Wilson in a couple of years.

The district approved a five-year copier lease agreement contract with SumnerOne.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4c2d3e85-7231-4f36-a2e0-a75c7231637b">The board rejected a renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One in May, requesting that the administration issue a request for proposals and bid out the contract.</a>

The board approved a bid from BSN Sports for three scorer's tables for the new Hays High School main and auxiliary gyms for $63,947.

The board voted to move its annual election of board president and vice president to January, better aligning it with the election of board members, which now takes place in November.

The board will have elections for board officers in July as planned, but those officers will serve shortened terms.

Curt Vajnar is the current president, and Jayme Goetz is the current vice president.

At the Monday meeting, Meagan Zampieri Lillpop, Vajnar and Ken Brooks said they would be interested in serving in either position. Goetz said she would serve another term as vice president if elected.

The board also approved year-end transfers and agreed to allow the district to dispose of obsolete property from Lincoln and Hays High schools through a community garage sale. The sale date has not yet been set.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750284265445.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of a new wheelchair-accessible school bus on Monday.The low bid was from Kansas Truck for $149,000.The purchase is part of the school district's five-year transportation plan.<h2>Boardroom video equipment</h2>The board did not approve a proposal to purchase&nbsp;$80,938 worth of new video equipment for the district boardroom. The equipment would have been moved to Wilson School when the district vacates Rockwell Administration Center at the completion of the bond projects.School board members said they would like to revisit the purchase when the administration moves into Wilson in a couple of years.<h2>Copier agreement</h2>The district approved a five-year copier lease agreement contract with SumnerOne.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4c2d3e85-7231-4f36-a2e0-a75c7231637b">The board rejected a renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One in May, requesting that the administration issue a request for proposals and bid out the contract.</a><h2>Scoring tables</h2>The board approved a bid from BSN Sports for three scorer's tables for the new Hays High School main and auxiliary gyms for $63,947.<h2>Board elections</h2>The board voted to move its annual election of board president and vice president to January, better aligning it with the election of board members, which now takes place in November.The board will have elections for board officers in July as planned, but those officers will serve shortened terms.Curt Vajnar is the current president, and Jayme Goetz is the current vice president.At the Monday meeting, Meagan Zampieri Lillpop, Vajnar and Ken Brooks said they would be interested in serving in either position. Goetz said she would serve another term as vice president if elected.The board also approved year-end transfers and agreed to allow the district to dispose of obsolete property from Lincoln and Hays High schools through a community garage sale. The sale date has not yet been set.

Hays USD 489 purchases new school bus

The Kansas Drought Monitor, released today, shows drought is easing across the state, including in Ellis County.

About half of Ellis County shows no drought, while the other half exhibits abnormally dry conditions.

Pockets of moderate and severe drought remain along the Nebraska border.

As of this morning, Hays has received 1.47 inches of rain in June and 10.35 inches of precipitation year to date, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays averages 3.38 inches of rain in June and 11.31 inches of precipitation year to date by the end of June.

Friday's forecast is for a high of 101 in Hays. Hot temperatures and wind will remain in the forecast through Sunday, with a chance of thunderstorms returning on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750357836624.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Kansas Drought Monitor, released today, shows drought is easing across the state, including in Ellis County.About half of Ellis County shows no drought, while the other half exhibits abnormally dry conditions.Pockets of moderate and severe drought remain along the Nebraska border.As of this morning, Hays has received 1.47 inches of rain in June and 10.35 inches of precipitation year to date, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Hays averages 3.38 inches of rain in June and 11.31 inches of precipitation year to date by the end of June.Friday's forecast is for a high of 101 in Hays. Hot temperatures and wind will remain in the forecast through Sunday, with a chance of thunderstorms returning on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Drought eases in northwest Kansas

Mosquito fogging began Wednesday in Russell.&nbsp;City crews are fogging to reduce mosquito populations.&nbsp;Fogging will continue as needed and weather permits.

Check your property for standing water and dump it weekly.

Mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in just 7–10 days.

Please call the City of Russell at 785-483-6311 for any questions you may have.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560010809375.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellMosquito fogging began Wednesday in Russell.&nbsp;City crews are fogging to reduce mosquito populations.&nbsp;Fogging will continue as needed and weather permits.Check your property for standing water and dump it weekly.Mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in just 7–10 days.Please call the City of Russell at 785-483-6311 for any questions you may have.

Mosquito fogging underway in Russell 

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The warm weather will perfectly complement the featured exhibit for Friday's annual <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/916bb38b-09bf-4c28-bf9f-4da5a0b67707/downloads/b594ecf6-0b8d-4ba8-bf27-2389a5841f20/summer%20walk%2025%20inside%20ltr.pdf?ver=1750042936043">Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk</a>, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in downtown Hays.

"Vanishing Depths" is a collection of paintings and ceramics by Hays artist Diana Unrein, highlighting the nuances of ocean life, on view through Aug. 13 at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th.

Unrein is a native of Cyprus, the island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. She's lived in the United States for 40 years.&nbsp;

"The water figures so prominently in her life," said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director. "It's always been a recurring element historically."

"You can imagine how difficult that would be to paint water. They're serene. They're beautiful," Meder said.

Unrein's figurative ceramics are also large, still telling the stories that arise from the water.&nbsp;

Unrein has won numerous awards and recognitions for her work, ranging from the local to the global level.&nbsp; This will be the largest single exhibition Unrein has ever presented anywhere.

Meder is excited about the wide variety of arts represented in the walk, which includes several hands-on interactions for children.

Drum making and playing by John Makings, along with a chalk arts station courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, will be set up in the Downtown Pavilion and Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main.

STEM Harvest, 507 Main, will offer AI creative art stations and a glimpse of the building's mural in process by The Brickmob of Wichita.

The musical arts will be featured by the First United Methodist Church's Spirit Ringers at Kat's Hallmark, 1003 Main. The group will perform three concerts at 7 p.m., 7:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Live music will be performed by Martha Miller from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Paisley Pear Wine Bar &amp; Bistro, 1100 Main.&nbsp;

Attendees can get a sneak peek behind the scenes of the musical<a href="https://www.hctks.com/"> "Mama Mia" by the Hays Community Theatre</a>, 121 E. Eighth, which will be performed July 24-26. The group will also host a public karaoke open mic and competition at 8 p.m.&nbsp;

Mother Nature will show off her creations with a little help from K-State Agricultural Research and Cottonwood Extension Master Gardeners open houses.

Tours of the WaterSmart Garden, 601 Main, and the Backyard Family Garden and Perennial/Pollinator Garden, K-State Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave., will be conducted from 6 to 8 p.m.

Other exhibitions include etchings, jewelry, engraved mirrors, wood sculpture, a book signing of "Soon You Will Be Mine" by Hays author Jeanne Riedel, collaborative art banners by DSNWK arts and Fort Hays State University's community-engaged art program, and the MFA work of FHSU student Kelly Chapin-Hagen at the campus Moss Thorns Gallery of Art from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Ellis County Historical Society, Seventh and Main, will feature a traveling exhibit from the Smoky Hill Museum, Salina, titled "A Place to Call Home" as well as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/889e1747-e8ab-4501-adf4-35e170981e29">blue denim buffalo sculpture by Hays artist Pete Felten</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750259191589.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe warm weather will perfectly complement the featured exhibit for Friday's annual <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/916bb38b-09bf-4c28-bf9f-4da5a0b67707/downloads/b594ecf6-0b8d-4ba8-bf27-2389a5841f20/summer%20walk%2025%20inside%20ltr.pdf?ver=1750042936043">Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk</a>, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in downtown Hays."Vanishing Depths" is a collection of paintings and ceramics by Hays artist Diana Unrein, highlighting the nuances of ocean life, on view through Aug. 13 at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th.Unrein is a native of Cyprus, the island nation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. She's lived in the United States for 40 years.&nbsp;"The water figures so prominently in her life," said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director. "It's always been a recurring element historically."The paintings are large."You can imagine how difficult that would be to paint water. They're serene. They're beautiful," Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261343584.png" alt="Painting by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Painting by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261150152.jpeg" alt="Ceramics by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ceramics by Diana Unrein, Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Unrein's figurative ceramics are also large, still telling the stories that arise from the water.&nbsp;Unrein has won numerous awards and recognitions for her work, ranging from the local to the global level.&nbsp; This will be the largest single exhibition Unrein has ever presented anywhere.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk is Friday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=6fx2p-18de89c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Meder is excited about the wide variety of arts represented in the walk, which includes several hands-on interactions for children.Drum making and playing by John Makings, along with a chalk arts station courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, will be set up in the Downtown Pavilion and Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main.STEM Harvest, 507 Main, will offer AI creative art stations and a glimpse of the building's mural in process by The Brickmob of Wichita.The musical arts will be featured by the First United Methodist Church's Spirit Ringers at Kat's Hallmark, 1003 Main. The group will perform three concerts at 7 p.m., 7:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.Live music will be performed by Martha Miller from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Paisley Pear Wine Bar &amp; Bistro, 1100 Main.&nbsp;Attendees can get a sneak peek behind the scenes of the musical<a href="https://www.hctks.com/"> "Mama Mia" by the Hays Community Theatre</a>, 121 E. Eighth, which will be performed July 24-26. The group will also host a public karaoke open mic and competition at 8 p.m.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750262075463.png" alt="Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners&nbsp; perennial/pollinator garden to support butterflies, native bees, honeybees and other pollinators. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners&nbsp; perennial/pollinator garden to support butterflies, native bees, honeybees and other pollinators. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>Mother Nature will show off her creations with a little help from K-State Agricultural Research and Cottonwood Extension Master Gardeners open houses.Tours of the WaterSmart Garden, 601 Main, and the Backyard Family Garden and Perennial/Pollinator Garden, K-State Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave., will be conducted from 6 to 8 p.m.Other exhibitions include etchings, jewelry, engraved mirrors, wood sculpture, a book signing of "Soon You Will Be Mine" by Hays author Jeanne Riedel, collaborative art banners by DSNWK arts and Fort Hays State University's community-engaged art program, and the MFA work of FHSU student Kelly Chapin-Hagen at the campus Moss Thorns Gallery of Art from 6 to 8 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261665443.jpeg" alt="Hays sculptor Pete Felten and Amanda Rupp, director of the Ellis County Historical Society, welcome Felten’s “Buffalo in Denim” sculpture to the historical society. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to the Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays sculptor Pete Felten and Amanda Rupp, director of the Ellis County Historical Society, welcome Felten’s “Buffalo in Denim” sculpture to the historical society. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to the Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Historical Society, Seventh and Main, will feature a traveling exhibit from the Smoky Hill Museum, Salina, titled "A Place to Call Home" as well as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/889e1747-e8ab-4501-adf4-35e170981e29">blue denim buffalo sculpture by Hays artist Pete Felten</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750264064256.png" alt="Hays Arts Council&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750264136850.png" alt="Hays Arts Council&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

 🎙 Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk set for Friday

Hays High School students will not only be starting school in August in a new school, but they will also have a new schedule and cell phone policy.

Both were discussed at the Hays USD 489 school board meeting on Monday.

The new schedule, which has been dubbed "Move it Mondays" will have students attending all of their classes on Mondays. Students will continue to attend classes based on the maroon and gold block scheduling on Tuesdays through Fridays.

The school had already used the Move It Monday schedule on the first day of each semester. This pilot program would result in the Move It schedule every Monday.

Principal Shawn Henderson said the schedule allows students to have more frequent contact with teachers. He said teachers also expressed concerns students were not well-engaged during Pride time.

Class time increases For the 2024-2025 School Year &nbsp;2-week instructional time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 85 minute/class 5 meetings = 425 minutes over 2-weeks &nbsp;For the 2025-2026 School Year &nbsp;2-week instruction time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 90 minute/class 4 meetings = 440 minutes over 2-weeks

One teacher who spoke in favor of the schedule at the meeting said one of her students missed three weeks of math classes due to wrestling.

She said teachers had issues with 40 minutes of unstructured time. The new schedule will reduce Pride to 20 minutes.

Board member Jayme Goetz met with Henderson, Board President Curt Vajnar and other administrators after she said several questions about the schedule were brought to her by parents and teachers.&nbsp;

"There are teachers and parents who have concerns with this new schedule," Goetz said. "I personally have nothing wrong with this schedule. I do not care if they implement it or not. What I do care about is that those concerns are heard and represented. 

"All I am asking is that the teachers have the opportunity to vote on the implementation of this new schedule this year."

Although the teachers were not given the opportunity to vote on the pilot, the schedule will be part of the negotiated agreement next year if the administration decides to make the change permanent, Henderson said.

Alex Underwood, a teacher, said the idea for the new schedule originated from a building leadership team meeting. The teachers expressed concern about the amount of extra time students have at school during Pride time and guided personal study time, he said.

Students are required to enroll in personal study time. It encompasses a full 86-minute class period, which the students have every other day.

The new schedule was pitched to the whole staff during a morning faculty meeting. Underwood said some concerns were expressed, but nothing significant was noted.

"Hearing not a lot of dissent from other teachers, we thought we could go forward," Underwood said.

He said the negative to the new schedule is classes that work better in a block schedule, such as a culinary class, gym or woods, would have to be more creative about using the shorter 45-minute class schedules on Mondays.

Clubs will still meet during Pride time, but for 20 minutes. Second breakfast will also continue.

During Pride time, students are presented with a social/emotional curriculum, clubs meet and students can pass to see other teachers.

"While that is effective for some teachers, certainly, and some students certainly, the amount of extra time they have in that and their [guided personal study time] for a lot of students is not particularly the most well-used time. So it ends up being kind of a hangout time for students," Underwood said.

Underwood said no teachers have planning time during Pride time, so there's no one to help monitor what's going on in the halls.

"It has evolved in the student culture that it is their time, and they can do whatever they want. They push back against us really hard on that," he said. ... "It's not working super great, and we need a change for sure."

Goetz asked why&nbsp;guided personal study time paras weren't monitoring the hallways during Pride time.

Assistant Principal Becky Hickert said that in order to fully staff guided personal study time, the paras have to take their breaks during Pride time.

Goetz said, "If I am getting phone calls that we are implementing too much in one year, then there's a problem somewhere."

Board member Derek Yarmer said he supported more class time and structure for students.

The board was not required to take action on the schedule proposal.

Teachers at the meeting on Monday said the new cell phone policy is also part of the effort to better focus and engage students.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e8a8e804-b37c-4110-b8cb-aff774a92e83">Beginning in the upcoming school year, students will be prohibited from using cell phones during the school day at the high school.</a>

The board had its first reading of the student handbooks, which contain the new policy, and board members had questions about enforcement.

• On a first offense, the cell phone will be confiscated, and the student can pick up the phone after school. • On a second offense, the parent has to pick up the phone at the school. • On the third offense, the student and parent have to meet with an administrator to draft a memorandum of understanding.

Goetz asked what the administrators would do if a parent refused to follow the policy.

"We would appreciate your support as a board," Henderson said.

He added, "This is going to be a challenge not just for my staff and students, but for their families because our students have been directly communicating with mom and dad during the day, which means mom and dad have a job and they're talking to their students during the day.

"We are all going to have to retrain together," he said. "It can't be just these people standing up here. I can't raise 1,000 kids by myself. We just have the honor of working with them when they come to us."

Henderson said the elimination of cell phone use during the school day will have to be an effort of the entire community.

Goetz and Henderson both encouraged parents to contact the office in the event of an emergency, rather than trying to call students on their cell phones.

Board member Ruth Ruder said, "In the schools that I have heard have banned them, they said it works, and the kids adjusted just fine. We probably handle it worse than they do."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750276873486.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays High School students will not only be starting school in August in a new school, but they will also have a new schedule and cell phone policy.Both were discussed at the Hays USD 489 school board meeting on Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750282606224.png" alt="Sample of the new "Move it Monday" schedule. The Pride Time is listed as "Advisory" on this schedule." />
 <figcaption>Sample of the new "Move it Monday" schedule. The Pride Time is listed as "Advisory" on this schedule.</figcaption>
 </figure>The new schedule, which has been dubbed "Move it Mondays" will have students attending all of their classes on Mondays. Students will continue to attend classes based on the maroon and gold block scheduling on Tuesdays through Fridays.The school had already used the Move It Monday schedule on the first day of each semester. This pilot program would result in the Move It schedule every Monday.Principal Shawn Henderson said the schedule allows students to have more frequent contact with teachers. He said teachers also expressed concerns students were not well-engaged during Pride time.Class time increases For the 2024-2025 School Year &nbsp;2-week instructional time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 85 minute/class 5 meetings = 425 minutes over 2-weeks &nbsp;For the 2025-2026 School Year &nbsp;2-week instruction time per class for 5-day weeks: &nbsp; 90 minute/class 4 meetings = 440 minutes over 2-weeksOne teacher who spoke in favor of the schedule at the meeting said one of her students missed three weeks of math classes due to wrestling.She said teachers had issues with 40 minutes of unstructured time. The new schedule will reduce Pride to 20 minutes.Board member Jayme Goetz met with Henderson, Board President Curt Vajnar and other administrators after she said several questions about the schedule were brought to her by parents and teachers.&nbsp;"There are teachers and parents who have concerns with this new schedule," Goetz said. "I personally have nothing wrong with this schedule. I do not care if they implement it or not. What I do care about is that those concerns are heard and represented. "All I am asking is that the teachers have the opportunity to vote on the implementation of this new schedule this year."Although the teachers were not given the opportunity to vote on the pilot, the schedule will be part of the negotiated agreement next year if the administration decides to make the change permanent, Henderson said.Alex Underwood, a teacher, said the idea for the new schedule originated from a building leadership team meeting. The teachers expressed concern about the amount of extra time students have at school during Pride time and guided personal study time, he said.Students are required to enroll in personal study time. It encompasses a full 86-minute class period, which the students have every other day.The new schedule was pitched to the whole staff during a morning faculty meeting. Underwood said some concerns were expressed, but nothing significant was noted."Hearing not a lot of dissent from other teachers, we thought we could go forward," Underwood said.He said the negative to the new schedule is classes that work better in a block schedule, such as a culinary class, gym or woods, would have to be more creative about using the shorter 45-minute class schedules on Mondays.Clubs will still meet during Pride time, but for 20 minutes. Second breakfast will also continue.During Pride time, students are presented with a social/emotional curriculum, clubs meet and students can pass to see other teachers."While that is effective for some teachers, certainly, and some students certainly, the amount of extra time they have in that and their [guided personal study time] for a lot of students is not particularly the most well-used time. So it ends up being kind of a hangout time for students," Underwood said.Underwood said no teachers have planning time during Pride time, so there's no one to help monitor what's going on in the halls."It has evolved in the student culture that it is their time, and they can do whatever they want. They push back against us really hard on that," he said. ... "It's not working super great, and we need a change for sure."Goetz asked why&nbsp;guided personal study time paras weren't monitoring the hallways during Pride time.Assistant Principal Becky Hickert said that in order to fully staff guided personal study time, the paras have to take their breaks during Pride time.Goetz said, "If I am getting phone calls that we are implementing too much in one year, then there's a problem somewhere."Board member Derek Yarmer said he supported more class time and structure for students.The board was not required to take action on the schedule proposal.<h2>Cell phones</h2>Teachers at the meeting on Monday said the new cell phone policy is also part of the effort to better focus and engage students.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e8a8e804-b37c-4110-b8cb-aff774a92e83">Beginning in the upcoming school year, students will be prohibited from using cell phones during the school day at the high school.</a>The board had its first reading of the student handbooks, which contain the new policy, and board members had questions about enforcement.• On a first offense, the cell phone will be confiscated, and the student can pick up the phone after school. • On a second offense, the parent has to pick up the phone at the school. • On the third offense, the student and parent have to meet with an administrator to draft a memorandum of understanding.Goetz asked what the administrators would do if a parent refused to follow the policy."We would appreciate your support as a board," Henderson said.He added, "This is going to be a challenge not just for my staff and students, but for their families because our students have been directly communicating with mom and dad during the day, which means mom and dad have a job and they're talking to their students during the day."We are all going to have to retrain together," he said. "It can't be just these people standing up here. I can't raise 1,000 kids by myself. We just have the honor of working with them when they come to us."Henderson said the elimination of cell phone use during the school day will have to be an effort of the entire community.Goetz and Henderson both encouraged parents to contact the office in the event of an emergency, rather than trying to call students on their cell phones.Board member Ruth Ruder said, "In the schools that I have heard have banned them, they said it works, and the kids adjusted just fine. We probably handle it worse than they do."

Hays High presents Move it Monday schedule; board discusses cell phones

This next trip offers the chance to see central Kansas from a different perspective. While most is flat land perfect for farming, this remnant of an ancient sea rises above the prairie, offering a rare perspective to natives, Santa Fe Trail travelers, settlers, and modern visitors.

On a recent exploration of said Santa Fe Trail, I visited Pawnee Rock and wondered why I put that journey off for so long. 

This wet, early June—not too hot nor too cold--was perfect for travel through this country. Ash Creek, the Pawnee and Arkansas Rivers, as well as waving grain fields surround the rise, contributing treelined breaks that interrupt a flat horizon line that combines with the stark beauty of this vertical limestone mound rising in the midst of surrounding plains.

As our group traveled down Highway 156 toward this approximate mid-point of the Santa Fe Trail, I mulled its long history and importance to indigenous people and more recent trekkers on this ancient route. According to one resource, Santa Fe trail travelers could view not only area game and water resources, but also Forts Zarah and Larned in the distance. Standing atop the monument, I could see that would have been possible.

Native tribes climbed the heights to survey the landscape and observe game and other tribes traveling through the region. Anyone atop this highpoint had a vantage point that extended for miles, making it difficult for anyone to sneak up. What a bonus when planning a bison or other wild game hunt or an attack on invaders.

According to sources, this site offered an obvious meeting point. It also added danger to Santa Fe merchant trains that camped nearby. Several area tribes attacked those campsites. One treasure hunting source shared that trail travelers frequently cached valuables when they arrived in the area, suggesting that those who didn’t survive such attacks left buried treasure behind. It makes an interesting, unsubstantiated story.

Who knows the truth about treasure, but this was a place where some travelers ended their journeys. One of them, Nehemiah Carson—a private who fought in the Mexican War with the Missouri Infantry—died at the site and was buried in 1846. A stark white military marker identifies his last resting place for site visitors. His last resting place adds poignancy to a visit.

By the time railroads replaced the Santa Fe Trail, construction crews collected rock from the heights to create bed for tracks they laid. Incoming settlers continued harvesting hard to come by stone to build foundations for homes, barns, and businesses, considerably lowering the peak of Pawnee Rock over time. 

To allow visitors to see the region from its original height, park managers constructed a metal tower complete with spiral staircase to permit visitors to access the platform for a 360-degree view of the surrounding region that equaled the original view seen by natives and early pioneers. The winding climb that offers a view for miles around is worth the effort. Those who reach this point see surrounding waterways, farm fields, regional grain elevators, and highways that have replaced dirt trails. The only things missing were bison herds and natives riding ponies.

Put this one on your agenda. It will transport you back in time while letting you see the present from a new perspective.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750177532466.jpeg" alt="Pawnee Rock view looking toward Ft. Zarah. Photo by Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Pawnee Rock view looking toward Ft. Zarah. Photo by Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN This next trip offers the chance to see central Kansas from a different perspective. While most is flat land perfect for farming, this remnant of an ancient sea rises above the prairie, offering a rare perspective to natives, Santa Fe Trail travelers, settlers, and modern visitors.On a recent exploration of said Santa Fe Trail, I visited Pawnee Rock and wondered why I put that journey off for so long. This wet, early June—not too hot nor too cold--was perfect for travel through this country. Ash Creek, the Pawnee and Arkansas Rivers, as well as waving grain fields surround the rise, contributing treelined breaks that interrupt a flat horizon line that combines with the stark beauty of this vertical limestone mound rising in the midst of surrounding plains.As our group traveled down Highway 156 toward this approximate mid-point of the Santa Fe Trail, I mulled its long history and importance to indigenous people and more recent trekkers on this ancient route. According to one resource, Santa Fe trail travelers could view not only area game and water resources, but also Forts Zarah and Larned in the distance. Standing atop the monument, I could see that would have been possible.Native tribes climbed the heights to survey the landscape and observe game and other tribes traveling through the region. Anyone atop this highpoint had a vantage point that extended for miles, making it difficult for anyone to sneak up. What a bonus when planning a bison or other wild game hunt or an attack on invaders.According to sources, this site offered an obvious meeting point. It also added danger to Santa Fe merchant trains that camped nearby. Several area tribes attacked those campsites. One treasure hunting source shared that trail travelers frequently cached valuables when they arrived in the area, suggesting that those who didn’t survive such attacks left buried treasure behind. It makes an interesting, unsubstantiated story.Who knows the truth about treasure, but this was a place where some travelers ended their journeys. One of them, Nehemiah Carson—a private who fought in the Mexican War with the Missouri Infantry—died at the site and was buried in 1846. A stark white military marker identifies his last resting place for site visitors. His last resting place adds poignancy to a visit.By the time railroads replaced the Santa Fe Trail, construction crews collected rock from the heights to create bed for tracks they laid. Incoming settlers continued harvesting hard to come by stone to build foundations for homes, barns, and businesses, considerably lowering the peak of Pawnee Rock over time. To allow visitors to see the region from its original height, park managers constructed a metal tower complete with spiral staircase to permit visitors to access the platform for a 360-degree view of the surrounding region that equaled the original view seen by natives and early pioneers. The winding climb that offers a view for miles around is worth the effort. Those who reach this point see surrounding waterways, farm fields, regional grain elevators, and highways that have replaced dirt trails. The only things missing were bison herds and natives riding ponies.Put this one on your agenda. It will transport you back in time while letting you see the present from a new perspective.

MADORIN: Day Trippin' 3: Looking over prairie, rivers, creek, rails

A Hays developer plans to renovate the second floor of the building at 1012 Main St. into Airbnb-rentable units.

Tim Speno, One Twenty&nbsp;Seven Investments, is requesting the city of Hays to apply for $300,000 in grant money through the Kansas Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Commercial Rehabilitation program to assist with the redevelopment project. 

Although the program funds projects owned and operated by private developers, cities and counties are still required to be the official applicants for the CDBG funds.

A matching fund of 25 percent from the developer is required as part of the project. No city funds would be disbursed.

The building, initially constructed in 1917 as the Hays Building and Loan Association, has housed various businesses over the years and is currently home to Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio.&nbsp;

The renovation will involve exterior masonry, interior plumbing, HVAC, and roof improvements to create three rentable units. The quilt studio will continue to operate on the ground floor.

City commissioners will consider Speno's request at their work session Thursday afternoon.

Also on the agenda is a rezoning request at 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to a residential multi-family district.

The owner, AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to&nbsp;build a housing development with units designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.

The Hays Area Planning Commission has already unanimously approved the rezoning request for the&nbsp;.607 acres of undeveloped land directly east of the little Dillons.

Commissioners will also review recommended changes to the city's Unified Development Code for small structures, such as gazebos or garden sheds, to permit a shorter setback. A second consideration is eliminating the maximum of two accessory structures on a lot.

Staff is also recommending removing the restriction in agriculture&nbsp; districts where non-agricultural accessory structures are limited to a maximum size of 50% of the footprint of the main dwelling.

The Hays Area Planning Commission has unanimously approved the three requested changes.

The commission will also be advised of a general nuisance abatement request for 206 E. 14th.

The complete June 19 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06192025-1554">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263139389.png" alt="1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA Hays developer plans to renovate the second floor of the building at 1012 Main St. into Airbnb-rentable units.Tim Speno, One Twenty&nbsp;Seven Investments, is requesting the city of Hays to apply for $300,000 in grant money through the Kansas Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Commercial Rehabilitation program to assist with the redevelopment project. Although the program funds projects owned and operated by private developers, cities and counties are still required to be the official applicants for the CDBG funds.A matching fund of 25 percent from the developer is required as part of the project. No city funds would be disbursed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263247761.png" alt="1012 Main St., downtown Hays. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>1012 Main St., downtown Hays. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The building, initially constructed in 1917 as the Hays Building and Loan Association, has housed various businesses over the years and is currently home to Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio.&nbsp;The renovation will involve exterior masonry, interior plumbing, HVAC, and roof improvements to create three rentable units. The quilt studio will continue to operate on the ground floor.City commissioners will consider Speno's request at their work session Thursday afternoon.Also on the agenda is a rezoning request at 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to a residential multi-family district.The owner, AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to&nbsp;build a housing development with units designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.The Hays Area Planning Commission has already unanimously approved the rezoning request for the&nbsp;.607 acres of undeveloped land directly east of the little Dillons.Commissioners will also review recommended changes to the city's Unified Development Code for small structures, such as gazebos or garden sheds, to permit a shorter setback. A second consideration is eliminating the maximum of two accessory structures on a lot.Staff is also recommending removing the restriction in agriculture&nbsp; districts where non-agricultural accessory structures are limited to a maximum size of 50% of the footprint of the main dwelling.The Hays Area Planning Commission has unanimously approved the three requested changes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750265211704.png" alt="206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo" />
 <figcaption>206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission will also be advised of a general nuisance abatement request for 206 E. 14th.The complete June 19 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06192025-1554">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays developer plans rental units in portion of downtown building

Nabholz Construction is working on phase two of the O'Loughlin Elementary School renovation and addition.&nbsp;

Footings and foundations are being prepared for Phase 2, which is indicated in blue on the floor plan above. That includes three classrooms, a bathroom and a shared study area that will also serve as a storm shelter for the school, Brett Collins, Nabholz's project executive, said.

Underground utility work is also being completed in that area.

Grading is being done on phase one, which can be seen in orange on the left side of the floor plan above. Work on underground utilities will also begin in that area soon, Collins said.

That addition to the school will include the cafeteria, a new kitchen and art classroom.

Both phases one and two are scheduled to be completed by May.

Renovations on the existing portion of the school have also begun.

Improvements to the existing portions of the school will include paint, flooring and ceilings. That work has been divided into two phases. The portion in purple on the right side of the floor plan above will be done this summer.&nbsp;

Next summer, renovations will be completed on Phase 6, which is on the left side of the floor plan, marked in green.

The renovation work is being split, so construction will not interrupt classes during the school year.

Work is also ongoing on the new drive, which will create additional stacking space for pickup and drop-off on the southwest side of the school. District officials hope the new drive will help alleviate some of the congestion on Hall Street before and after school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750258789355.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostNabholz Construction is working on phase two of the O'Loughlin Elementary School renovation and addition.&nbsp;Footings and foundations are being prepared for Phase 2, which is indicated in blue on the floor plan above. That includes three classrooms, a bathroom and a shared study area that will also serve as a storm shelter for the school, Brett Collins, Nabholz's project executive, said.Underground utility work is also being completed in that area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261632134.png" alt="Construction of a classroom addition that will also serve as a storm shelter is underway on the north side of O'Loughlin Elementary School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Construction of a classroom addition that will also serve as a storm shelter is underway on the north side of O'Loughlin Elementary School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Grading is being done on phase one, which can be seen in orange on the left side of the floor plan above. Work on underground utilities will also begin in that area soon, Collins said.That addition to the school will include the cafeteria, a new kitchen and art classroom.Both phases one and two are scheduled to be completed by May.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261806998.png" alt="Interior renovations are also underway at O'Loughlin Elementary School. Half of the existing building will be painted, as well as have new ceilings and floor coverings installed this summer. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Interior renovations are also underway at O'Loughlin Elementary School. Half of the existing building will be painted, as well as have new ceilings and floor coverings installed this summer. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Renovations on the existing portion of the school have also begun.Improvements to the existing portions of the school will include paint, flooring and ceilings. That work has been divided into two phases. The portion in purple on the right side of the floor plan above will be done this summer.&nbsp;Next summer, renovations will be completed on Phase 6, which is on the left side of the floor plan, marked in green.The renovation work is being split, so construction will not interrupt classes during the school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750261218345.png" alt="The new drive for pick up and drop off for O'Loughlin Elementary School, southwest of the school, is under construction. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The new drive for pick up and drop off for O'Loughlin Elementary School, southwest of the school, is under construction. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Work is also ongoing on the new drive, which will create additional stacking space for pickup and drop-off on the southwest side of the school. District officials hope the new drive will help alleviate some of the congestion on Hall Street before and after school.

Construction underway on O'Loughlin Elementary School addition, renovation

The construction of the new Hays High School is on budget and on schedule to open in August at the start of the school year.

Nabholz Construction provided an update on the construction project and presented information about a proposed change order for the high school.

Turf has been laid on the athletic fields. Flooring is almost complete in the two gyms, and work on the bleachers is ongoing.

Workers are completing the punch list on areas A and B of the high school. This includes the science labs.

The west wing, which includes parts A and B, the center atrium (area C) and the east wing (areas D and E), is set to be substantially complete by July 7.

The rest of the project is scheduled to be substantially complete by Aug. 13.

Dylan Weddle, Nabholz project manager, presented the board with $111,062 in change orders for the Hays High project at the school board meeting Monday night.

The change orders are still well within the $1 million contingency fund established for the project. With the latest change orders that have been approved, more than $300,000 remains in the high school project's contingency fund, with the project nearing completion.

The change order included modifications to the track and field layout. Superintendent Ron Wilson said after a meeting with coaches, it was decided there wasn't enough room between the pole vault and high jump areas, so the designers moved the pole vault area.

There were similar concerns about the two discus rings being too close together. The change order also included some changes to the sidewalks in the softball and baseball areas.

The board did not approve the $38,000 change order for murals inside the high school.

Weddle said one of these murals in the auxiliary gym is complete. He said Nabholz moved forward with the painting to keep the project on schedule.

He said the murals were not included in the original budget because the designers and the district were undecided about their placement until the project was under construction.

Because the school board did not approve that change order, Nabholz will be responsible for the work that has already been done.

Board member Derek Yarmer said he saw the murals as an unneeded expense.

Yarmer said he thought the district should dedicate the $38,000 to other buildings in the district.

Board President Curt Vainar and Vice President Jayme Goetz said the district could revisit the murals once all of the other bond projects are complete.

Board member Ruth Ruder said, "We are going to have this big, beautiful high school and we're not going to see these murals for a year or two or five years."

Board member Ken Brooks noted the murals will cost more if they are delayed.

He added, "We're cheating them out of money."

He said that is not the way to treat a company that provides good work for the district.

Goetz said, "That's the risk that's involved."

Ruder noted Roosevelt had murals and logos in its new addition. She emphasized that branding is important.

Yarmer argued spending the $38,000 on the murals was going to prevent bathrooms from being repaired in other buildings.

Brooks said no, it was not. The funds for the murals were well within the contingency fund for the high school.

Yarmer said, "We can't the way we are spending money."

The motion to approve the change orders without the murals passed on a vote of 4-3, with Brooks, Ruder and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp voting against.

Brooks asked again after the vote what the district was going to do to compensate Nabholz for the mural that had already been completed.

Weddle said Nabholz would not charge the district for the completed mural.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750190815339.png" alt="The turf has been laid for the new Hays High School football field. The school is scheduled to open in August, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The turf has been laid for the new Hays High School football field. The school is scheduled to open in August, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Hays High on schedule, budget, but without murals" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=8s8a3-18dd50f-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
</div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe construction of the new Hays High School is on budget and on schedule to open in August at the start of the school year.Nabholz Construction provided an update on the construction project and presented information about a proposed change order for the high school.Turf has been laid on the athletic fields. Flooring is almost complete in the two gyms, and work on the bleachers is ongoing.Workers are completing the punch list on areas A and B of the high school. This includes the science labs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191181442.png" alt="Newly turfed Hays High soccer field.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Newly turfed Hays High soccer field.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191243670.png" alt="Hays High football field. The home bleachers and atheltic wing can be seen on the right. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays High football field. The home bleachers and atheltic wing can be seen on the right. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The west wing, which includes parts A and B, the center atrium (area C) and the east wing (areas D and E), is set to be substantially complete by July 7.The rest of the project is scheduled to be substantially complete by Aug. 13.<h2>High school change order</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191348983.png" alt="Complete bond projects budget. The school board did not approved $38,000 for murals at Hays High School in the latest change order for the project. More than $300,000 remains in the Hays High School contingency fund." />
 <figcaption>Complete bond projects budget. The school board did not approved $38,000 for murals at Hays High School in the latest change order for the project. More than $300,000 remains in the Hays High School contingency fund.</figcaption>
 </figure>Dylan Weddle, Nabholz project manager, presented the board with $111,062 in change orders for the Hays High project at the school board meeting Monday night.The change orders are still well within the $1 million contingency fund established for the project. With the latest change orders that have been approved, more than $300,000 remains in the high school project's contingency fund, with the project nearing completion.The change order included modifications to the track and field layout. Superintendent Ron Wilson said after a meeting with coaches, it was decided there wasn't enough room between the pole vault and high jump areas, so the designers moved the pole vault area.There were similar concerns about the two discus rings being too close together. The change order also included some changes to the sidewalks in the softball and baseball areas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191639731.png" alt="Main gym. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Main gym. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191658330.png" alt="The school board voted&nbsp; Monday to not pay for a change order for murals for the new Hays High School. This mural in the auxillary gym was already completed, and Nabholz Construction will have to eat the cost of the painting. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The school board voted&nbsp; Monday to not pay for a change order for murals for the new Hays High School. This mural in the auxillary gym was already completed, and Nabholz Construction will have to eat the cost of the painting. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The board did not approve the $38,000 change order for murals inside the high school.Weddle said one of these murals in the auxiliary gym is complete. He said Nabholz moved forward with the painting to keep the project on schedule.He said the murals were not included in the original budget because the designers and the district were undecided about their placement until the project was under construction.Because the school board did not approve that change order, Nabholz will be responsible for the work that has already been done.Board member Derek Yarmer said he saw the murals as an unneeded expense.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191851678.png" alt="The entrances for the new high school have been completed. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>The entrances for the new high school have been completed. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>Yarmer said he thought the district should dedicate the $38,000 to other buildings in the district.Board President Curt Vainar and Vice President Jayme Goetz said the district could revisit the murals once all of the other bond projects are complete.Board member Ruth Ruder said, "We are going to have this big, beautiful high school and we're not going to see these murals for a year or two or five years."Board member Ken Brooks noted the murals will cost more if they are delayed.He added, "We're cheating them out of money."He said that is not the way to treat a company that provides good work for the district.Goetz said, "That's the risk that's involved."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191921975.png" alt="Academic areas in the new high school are nearing completion. On the left is a special education classroom. On the right is a science classroom. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Academic areas in the new high school are nearing completion. On the left is a special education classroom. On the right is a science classroom. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruder noted Roosevelt had murals and logos in its new addition. She emphasized that branding is important.Yarmer argued spending the $38,000 on the murals was going to prevent bathrooms from being repaired in other buildings.Brooks said no, it was not. The funds for the murals were well within the contingency fund for the high school."We can have both," Brooks said.Yarmer said, "We can't the way we are spending money."The motion to approve the change orders without the murals passed on a vote of 4-3, with Brooks, Ruder and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp voting against.Brooks asked again after the vote what the district was going to do to compensate Nabholz for the mural that had already been completed.Yarmer said, "It's free."Weddle said Nabholz would not charge the district for the completed mural.

Hays High proceeds on schedule, budget but without murals

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission reviewed ongoing challenges with road maintenance and right-of-way limitations during its Tuesday meeting.

Many roads, especially lesser-traveled or non-Federal Aid System routes, were constructed with narrow statutory rights-of-way that are&nbsp;inadequate for modern equipment or proper drainage.

Brendan Mackay, Ellis County public works director, identified county roads affected by these issues.

"Each one needs to be considered individually, as well as all the roadways that are narrow with no shoulders, no ditches or minimal ditches," Mackay said.

Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested dividing the county into multiple regions to better review and prioritize road maintenance.

"I think we need to establish a project manager and maybe a group that can go through it... a team of people to look through the list and make suggestions to us," Leiker said.

The commission agreed to keep working toward establishing a formal process.

Mackay discussed with the commission whether to close or construct the unpaved portion of Don Street in Munjor and an adjacent alley.

Adjacent property owners have requested the road be closed to stop unauthorized traffic on private land. At the same time, another resident has asked for the road to be paved and the alley improved.

David Vilaysing of Hays, who operates an Airbnb at the property, spoke to the commission and said he wants his guests to park behind the home, which would require access to the alley.

Ellis County has neither maintained nor upgraded its alleys, nor has it constructed platted roads that were left unpaved when they were initially accepted. Building the road would be costly due to the need for utility relocation and drainage considerations.

The commission discussed potential liability issues if any action were taken. The Hays resident’s alternative suggestion was to leave the alley as is, which the commission agreed to, unless problems continue.

Highway 40 and Main Street intersection in Victoria

The commission resumed discussions on Victoria's request for financial assistance in reconstructing the East Main Street approach to Old Highway 40. Commissioner Michael Berges said he is now open to offering assistance after <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f411c2a9-c20a-4cf3-963d-d834ddb0f613">previously voting against the proposal</a>.

"I got a better visual of it," Berges said. "I'd be comfortable with $25,000."

The commission will make a motion at its meeting on July 1.

The commission reviewed its proposed 2026 departmental budget, which includes a $1,600 reduction from the previous year.&nbsp;Darin Myers, county administrator, said while overall expenses remain mostly unchanged, some adjustments were made.

Key budget items include commissioner salaries, legal services and about $19,000 in dues and memberships.

Myers said Ellis County is no longer eligible for the Rural Opportunity Zone, but must continue to pay for past applicants until 2027.

The commission reviewed and provided feedback on desired changes to the first draft of the 2026 departmental budget.&nbsp;

Lyle Pantle, Ellis County assistant fire chief, requested the commission to adopt the March 2025 update to the county’s Local Emergency Operations Plan. The update includes minor changes and new features, such as a mapper tool for disaster response coordination.

The commission also approved assistance for the city of Ellis, utilizing Ellis County equipment and labor, for a chip seal project that would take less than a day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission reviewed ongoing challenges with road maintenance and right-of-way limitations during its Tuesday meeting.Many roads, especially lesser-traveled or non-Federal Aid System routes, were constructed with narrow statutory rights-of-way that are&nbsp;inadequate for modern equipment or proper drainage.Brendan Mackay, Ellis County public works director, identified county roads affected by these issues."Each one needs to be considered individually, as well as all the roadways that are narrow with no shoulders, no ditches or minimal ditches," Mackay said.Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested dividing the county into multiple regions to better review and prioritize road maintenance."I think we need to establish a project manager and maybe a group that can go through it... a team of people to look through the list and make suggestions to us," Leiker said.The commission agreed to keep working toward establishing a formal process.<h2>Munjor road improvements</h2>Mackay discussed with the commission whether to close or construct the unpaved portion of Don Street in Munjor and an adjacent alley.Adjacent property owners have requested the road be closed to stop unauthorized traffic on private land. At the same time, another resident has asked for the road to be paved and the alley improved.David Vilaysing of Hays, who operates an Airbnb at the property, spoke to the commission and said he wants his guests to park behind the home, which would require access to the alley.Ellis County has neither maintained nor upgraded its alleys, nor has it constructed platted roads that were left unpaved when they were initially accepted. Building the road would be costly due to the need for utility relocation and drainage considerations.The commission discussed potential liability issues if any action were taken. The Hays resident’s alternative suggestion was to leave the alley as is, which the commission agreed to, unless problems continue.<h2>Highway 40 and Main Street intersection in Victoria</h2>The commission resumed discussions on Victoria's request for financial assistance in reconstructing the East Main Street approach to Old Highway 40. Commissioner Michael Berges said he is now open to offering assistance after <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f411c2a9-c20a-4cf3-963d-d834ddb0f613">previously voting against the proposal</a>."I got a better visual of it," Berges said. "I'd be comfortable with $25,000."The commission will make a motion at its meeting on July 1.<h2>2026 county commission budget</h2>The commission reviewed its proposed 2026 departmental budget, which includes a $1,600 reduction from the previous year.&nbsp;Darin Myers, county administrator, said while overall expenses remain mostly unchanged, some adjustments were made.Key budget items include commissioner salaries, legal services and about $19,000 in dues and memberships.Myers said Ellis County is no longer eligible for the Rural Opportunity Zone, but must continue to pay for past applicants until 2027.<h2>Other business</h2>The commission reviewed and provided feedback on desired changes to the first draft of the 2026 departmental budget.&nbsp;Lyle Pantle, Ellis County assistant fire chief, requested the commission to adopt the March 2025 update to the county’s Local Emergency Operations Plan. The update includes minor changes and new features, such as a mapper tool for disaster response coordination.The commission also approved assistance for the city of Ellis, utilizing Ellis County equipment and labor, for a chip seal project that would take less than a day.

Ellis County Commission discusses right-of-way issues

&nbsp;Hays Sister Cities board members were delighted to learn that Sister Cities International had once again chosen a student nominated from Hays to attend the Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. Each year students apply from all over the country and only 50 are accepted for this honor.

Hays Sister Cities was pleased to award Hays High School junior Delia Dixon a $2,500 scholarship to attend the Youth Leadership Summit hosted by Sister Cities International June 15 – 21.

YLS engages future leaders and exposes them to global challenges in hopes to inspire a new generation of citizen diplomats and volunteers to promote peace, mutual respect, and prosperity. Attendees hear from nationally known speakers, participate in professional development activities, and visit notable sites in the city. The summit closes with an international relations simulation.

Dixon was nominated to Hays Sister Cities by Jerry Braun, gifted education teacher at Hays High.

As part of her agreement to provide volunteer hours to Hays Sister Cities, Dixon will give presentations on her YLS experience to local civic groups and peer groups this fall.

“Caleb King, our last year’s recipient, shared that YLS was a life-changing experience broadening his horizon to new opportunities and giving him the confidence to pursue those,” said Hays Sister Cities board chair Olga Detrixhe.

“We feel honored to be able to provide this to outstanding youth in our community. Investing in them is the best way to secure Sister Cities’ mission for the future. It shows that small communities matter on an international stage and can make an impact. We can’t wait to hear about Delia’s experience,” said Detrixhe.

Sister Cities International was started by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to encourage citizen diplomacy and move toward world peace. For information on Sister Cities International, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.sistercities.org/">www.sistercities.org</a>. For more information about Hays Sister Cities, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.facebook.com/HaysSisterCities">www.facebook.com/HaysSisterCities</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayssistercities@gmail.com">hayssistercities@gmail.com</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750176098789.jpeg" alt="Hays Sister Cities board members Cindy Elliott, Stacey Lang, Mehran Shahidi and Olga Detrixhe with Youth Leadership Summit attendee Delia Dixon (center). Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays Sister Cities board members Cindy Elliott, Stacey Lang, Mehran Shahidi and Olga Detrixhe with Youth Leadership Summit attendee Delia Dixon (center). Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Sister Cities&nbsp;Hays Sister Cities board members were delighted to learn that Sister Cities International had once again chosen a student nominated from Hays to attend the Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. Each year students apply from all over the country and only 50 are accepted for this honor.Hays Sister Cities was pleased to award Hays High School junior Delia Dixon a $2,500 scholarship to attend the Youth Leadership Summit hosted by Sister Cities International June 15 – 21.YLS engages future leaders and exposes them to global challenges in hopes to inspire a new generation of citizen diplomats and volunteers to promote peace, mutual respect, and prosperity. Attendees hear from nationally known speakers, participate in professional development activities, and visit notable sites in the city. The summit closes with an international relations simulation.Dixon was nominated to Hays Sister Cities by Jerry Braun, gifted education teacher at Hays High.As part of her agreement to provide volunteer hours to Hays Sister Cities, Dixon will give presentations on her YLS experience to local civic groups and peer groups this fall.“Caleb King, our last year’s recipient, shared that YLS was a life-changing experience broadening his horizon to new opportunities and giving him the confidence to pursue those,” said Hays Sister Cities board chair Olga Detrixhe.“We feel honored to be able to provide this to outstanding youth in our community. Investing in them is the best way to secure Sister Cities’ mission for the future. It shows that small communities matter on an international stage and can make an impact. We can’t wait to hear about Delia’s experience,” said Detrixhe.Sister Cities International was started by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to encourage citizen diplomacy and move toward world peace. For information on Sister Cities International, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.sistercities.org/">www.sistercities.org</a>. For more information about Hays Sister Cities, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.facebook.com/HaysSisterCities">www.facebook.com/HaysSisterCities</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayssistercities@gmail.com">hayssistercities@gmail.com</a>.