By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for Friday for Hays and Ellis County.

Other affected areas include:&nbsp;Trego, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman,&nbsp;Pawnee, Stafford, Stanton, Grant, Haskell, Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber counties.

Light snow will develop near the Colorado border after midnight, according to the National Weather Service.

This light snow will continue west of U.S. Highway 83 through daybreak and then begin to spread east across the remainder of southwest Kansas on Friday. 

The overnight snowfall is expected to end by 6 a.m. Friday and is currently expected to be light and average less than one inch.

Snowfall is expected to continue to accumulate on Friday, with totals between 0.5 to 1.5 inches likely, but there is a 60-80% chance that over 2 inches will be possible before the snow ends west of a Liberal to Sublette line.

Saturday and Sunday are forecast to be sunny with highs in the mid-40s.

The highs in Hays Monday through Wednesday are forecast in the 50s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767889706278.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for Friday for Hays and Ellis County.Other affected areas include:&nbsp;Trego, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman,&nbsp;Pawnee, Stafford, Stanton, Grant, Haskell, Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber counties.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2411751015946515%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Light snow will develop near the Colorado border after midnight, according to the National Weather Service.This light snow will continue west of U.S. Highway 83 through daybreak and then begin to spread east across the remainder of southwest Kansas on Friday. The overnight snowfall is expected to end by 6 a.m. Friday and is currently expected to be light and average less than one inch.Snowfall is expected to continue to accumulate on Friday, with totals between 0.5 to 1.5 inches likely, but there is a 60-80% chance that over 2 inches will be possible before the snow ends west of a Liberal to Sublette line.Saturday and Sunday are forecast to be sunny with highs in the mid-40s.The highs in Hays Monday through Wednesday are forecast in the 50s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767901967971.jpeg" alt="City of Hays snow routes" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays snow routes</figcaption>
 </figure>

Snow expected Friday; hazardous weather outlook issued

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The first moisture of 2026 for Hays brought rain overnight into Thursday morning.&nbsp;

As of 8 a.m., 0.38 inches of rain had been measured at the K-State&nbsp; Agricultural Research Center south of town.&nbsp;

At the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, 0.51 inches was measured as of 8:30 a.m. with light rain continuing.

The cumulative moisture average for January in Hays is 0.50.

The National Weather Service <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/55051a5e-58fd-43e9-8073-ff35efae26c0">weather forecast</a> calls for a 100% change of rain, then tapering off tonight.

A 40% chance of snow showers is in the forecast for Friday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715004827241.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe first moisture of 2026 for Hays brought rain overnight into Thursday morning.&nbsp;As of 8 a.m., 0.38 inches of rain had been measured at the K-State&nbsp; Agricultural Research Center south of town.&nbsp;At the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, 0.51 inches was measured as of 8:30 a.m. with light rain continuing.The cumulative moisture average for January in Hays is 0.50.The National Weather Service <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/55051a5e-58fd-43e9-8073-ff35efae26c0">weather forecast</a> calls for a 100% change of rain, then tapering off tonight.A 40% chance of snow showers is in the forecast for Friday.&nbsp;

First moisture of new year falls in Hays overnight into Thursday 

The renovated Hays Middle School opened to students on Wednesday.

Students and their parents toured the school on Tuesday night.

Principal Tom Albers told the students and parents on Tuesday that the renovation project of the former high school, 2300 E. 13th, is about 58% complete.

More work will be done this summer and likely next summer.

"There is a lot of walking in this school compared to what you are used to," Albers told the students. "You will be lost. But guess what, everyone, for the first time, will be lost. We are all lost together. You'll figure it out.

"Don't stress out. It'll all work out. I think you're going to like it."

Student drop-off will be on the west side of the building.

See a traffic flow map below. <a href="https://go.screenpal.com/watch/cOVh2enr2IH?fbclid=IwY2xjawPLcRBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExY1c4WkxmRXNtU3FhcHZlc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkOgXXj_PDGO-mEaTLSUpNPwFXgvLT1gD3j7owPGxh8wVYDJ4fdtci6KRr0F_aem_Pg2CwxSnNZnnW8ZWuGDiqg">Click here for a video explaining the map.</a>

Parents who spoke to the Hays Post on Tuesday night said they were excited about the opportunities the renovated school will provide students.

Students expressed mixed emotions. Some were excited about the new building, and others said they were nervous about navigating the larger school.

Tressidy Silva was visiting the school with her son, Matix, a seventh grader.

"I really like the school. I went here back in the day," she said. "[Matix] is excited for it. He is extremely jacked."

Matix said his first impression of the school was that it was big but nice.

Charlotte Mergen, seventh grader, said she was a little scared to start classes at the new school.

Her mother, Christy Mergen, said, "I'm excited for it. I think it's going to offer a lot of opportunities for the kids, a lot bigger and a lot more space for them to spread out and do some fun stuff."

William White, an eighth grader, was with his parents visiting the school on Tuesday night.

"I think it's a lot bigger than the old one," William said.

He said he did not feel intimidated by the larger school but thought it offered larger, better classrooms.

His mother, Tonya White, said, "I think it's great. They're getting moved in. It brings back memories for me. It is nice that they are somewhere bigger. It will be easier for them to move around."

Science teacher Scott Lindenmeyer said, "I think it's a great addition for our school because of the added space we have for our kids, extra gyms, larger hallways, larger classrooms."

"I think it is going to help our students be spaced apart, so it's not so cramped. I'm excited for just the space. It's going to be awesome."

The&nbsp;$6.1 million project&nbsp;included moving some classroom walls to create larger classrooms and adding collaboration rooms.&nbsp;New flooring was installed, lockers were painted and repaired, and other cosmetic improvements were done.

Additional boys' and girls' bathrooms were also added in the athletics wing.

The school has two gyms and a larger cafeteria compared to the former middle school.

Hays High students will still use the former high school wood shop. They will walk a short distance from the new high school to the former building for woods classes. The former ag classroom will be used as a lecture classroom space for the high school woods program.

The high school class is separated from the new middle school by a locked door accessible with a key card.

The former high school metals shop will become the middle school's new wood shop.&nbsp;

The two largest of the bond projects have been completed:&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4ecf935d-41cb-472c-9754-49c567a9dddc">an addition at Roosevelt Elementary School</a>&nbsp;and construction of the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b20dc400-848a-4e10-bda4-36f5dad6d626">Hays High School</a>.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4906798e-f3ac-4473-a4cb-4899a08613e3">Work is underway on an addition and renovation at O'Loughlin Elementary School.</a>

Now that the middle school is vacant, it will be renovated into a four-section elementary school, Felten Elementary School, scheduled to open in fall 2026.

At that time, Wilson Elementary School will close as an elementary school, and the district plans to move administrative offices into the Wilson building.

The district plans to vacate the Rockwell Administration Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767805915141.jpeg" alt="One of the larger renovated classrooms in the new Hays Middle School,&nbsp;2300 E. 13th St. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the larger renovated classrooms in the new Hays Middle School,&nbsp;2300 E. 13th St. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe renovated Hays Middle School opened to students on Wednesday.Students and their parents toured the school on Tuesday night.Principal Tom Albers told the students and parents on Tuesday that the renovation project of the former high school, 2300 E. 13th, is about 58% complete.More work will be done this summer and likely next summer."There is a lot of walking in this school compared to what you are used to," Albers told the students. "You will be lost. But guess what, everyone, for the first time, will be lost. We are all lost together. You'll figure it out."Don't stress out. It'll all work out. I think you're going to like it."Student drop-off will be on the west side of the building.See a traffic flow map below. <a href="https://go.screenpal.com/watch/cOVh2enr2IH?fbclid=IwY2xjawPLcRBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExY1c4WkxmRXNtU3FhcHZlc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkOgXXj_PDGO-mEaTLSUpNPwFXgvLT1gD3j7owPGxh8wVYDJ4fdtci6KRr0F_aem_Pg2CwxSnNZnnW8ZWuGDiqg">Click here for a video explaining the map.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767805541668.png" alt="Hays Middle School traffic flow map" />
 <figcaption>Hays Middle School traffic flow map</figcaption>
 </figure>Parents who spoke to the Hays Post on Tuesday night said they were excited about the opportunities the renovated school will provide students.Students expressed mixed emotions. Some were excited about the new building, and others said they were nervous about navigating the larger school.Tressidy Silva was visiting the school with her son, Matix, a seventh grader."I really like the school. I went here back in the day," she said. "[Matix] is excited for it. He is extremely jacked."Matix said his first impression of the school was that it was big but nice."I'll get it figured out," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806208138.jpeg" alt="A renovated classroom at Hays Middle School. The classrooms were made larger by combining three classrooms into two, with a collaboration room.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A renovated classroom at Hays Middle School. The classrooms were made larger by combining three classrooms into two, with a collaboration room.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806230021.jpeg" alt="The lockers in the new middle school were painted, and new flooring was installed. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The lockers in the new middle school were painted, and new flooring was installed. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806255770.jpeg" alt="New bathrooms were added in the athletic wing at the new middle school.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>New bathrooms were added in the athletic wing at the new middle school.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Charlotte Mergen, seventh grader, said she was a little scared to start classes at the new school.Her mother, Christy Mergen, said, "I'm excited for it. I think it's going to offer a lot of opportunities for the kids, a lot bigger and a lot more space for them to spread out and do some fun stuff."William White, an eighth grader, was with his parents visiting the school on Tuesday night."I think it's a lot bigger than the old one," William said.He said he did not feel intimidated by the larger school but thought it offered larger, better classrooms.His mother, Tonya White, said, "I think it's great. They're getting moved in. It brings back memories for me. It is nice that they are somewhere bigger. It will be easier for them to move around."Science teacher Scott Lindenmeyer said, "I think it's a great addition for our school because of the added space we have for our kids, extra gyms, larger hallways, larger classrooms.""I think it is going to help our students be spaced apart, so it's not so cramped. I'm excited for just the space. It's going to be awesome."The&nbsp;$6.1 million project&nbsp;included moving some classroom walls to create larger classrooms and adding collaboration rooms.&nbsp;New flooring was installed, lockers were painted and repaired, and other cosmetic improvements were done.Additional boys' and girls' bathrooms were also added in the athletics wing.The school has two gyms and a larger cafeteria compared to the former middle school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806364569.jpeg" alt="Although the science rooms did not receive major renovations, they are larger than the science classrooms in the former middle school.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Although the science rooms did not receive major renovations, they are larger than the science classrooms in the former middle school.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806390119.jpeg" alt="Hays Middle School has adopted the same logo, mascot and colors as Hays High School. The new building has been rebranded with the new logo and name.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Middle School has adopted the same logo, mascot and colors as Hays High School. The new building has been rebranded with the new logo and name.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High students will still use the former high school wood shop. They will walk a short distance from the new high school to the former building for woods classes. The former ag classroom will be used as a lecture classroom space for the high school woods program.The high school class is separated from the new middle school by a locked door accessible with a key card.The former high school metals shop will become the middle school's new wood shop.&nbsp;The two largest of the bond projects have been completed:&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4ecf935d-41cb-472c-9754-49c567a9dddc">an addition at Roosevelt Elementary School</a>&nbsp;and construction of the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b20dc400-848a-4e10-bda4-36f5dad6d626">Hays High School</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806415219.jpeg" alt="Students and parents gather in the main gym at HMS before touring the new location on Tuesday night.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Students and parents gather in the main gym at HMS before touring the new location on Tuesday night.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767806432852.jpeg" alt="Hays Middle School students will now have two gyms and a larger cafeteria.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Middle School students will now have two gyms and a larger cafeteria.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4906798e-f3ac-4473-a4cb-4899a08613e3">Work is underway on an addition and renovation at O'Loughlin Elementary School.</a>Now that the middle school is vacant, it will be renovated into a four-section elementary school, Felten Elementary School, scheduled to open in fall 2026.At that time, Wilson Elementary School will close as an elementary school, and the district plans to move administrative offices into the Wilson building.The district plans to vacate the Rockwell Administration Center.

Renovated Hays Middle School opens for classes

Logan, KS — The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is delighted to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Hope Blakely of Arvada, Colorado, for two Magic of Painting classes on January 24 &amp; 25. On Saturday, January 24th, participants will paint Old Castle, and on Sunday, January 25th, Mystic Waterfall. Both classes will take place in the Hansen Museum Community Room, located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with a one-hour lunch break.

These classes offer a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to painting. Students will be guided step-by-step through the process of completing a finished painting each day. No prior experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Participants need only bring a roll of paper towels. Open to individuals aged 13 and older, these sessions provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere that fosters creativity and camaraderie.

Registration is available online at www.hansenmuseum.org under the “Classes &amp; Camps” section. Discounts are offered to Patron and Sustaining Members of the Hansen Museum. These classes are part of the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program and are made possible through generous support from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, call 785-689-4846.

The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 4:00, Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 5:00, and Sundays and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The facility is handicap-accessible, and thanks to the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767807542064.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hansen MuseumLogan, KS — The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is delighted to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Hope Blakely of Arvada, Colorado, for two Magic of Painting classes on January 24 &amp; 25. On Saturday, January 24th, participants will paint Old Castle, and on Sunday, January 25th, Mystic Waterfall. Both classes will take place in the Hansen Museum Community Room, located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with a one-hour lunch break.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767807442434.png" alt=""Old Castle." Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>"Old Castle." Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767807452262.png" alt=""Mystic Waterfall." Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>"Mystic Waterfall." Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>These classes offer a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to painting. Students will be guided step-by-step through the process of completing a finished painting each day. No prior experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Participants need only bring a roll of paper towels. Open to individuals aged 13 and older, these sessions provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere that fosters creativity and camaraderie.Registration is available online at www.hansenmuseum.org under the “Classes &amp; Camps” section. Discounts are offered to Patron and Sustaining Members of the Hansen Museum. These classes are part of the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program and are made possible through generous support from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, call 785-689-4846.The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 4:00, Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 5:00, and Sundays and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The facility is handicap-accessible, and thanks to the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free.

Upcoming beginner-friendly painting class at Hansen Museum

BUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that the 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest is now officially open for entries. The annual contest encourages creativity and imagination by inviting children in 1st through 5th grade to submit their very own original stories.

This year introduces a new contest requirement: every story must include a zoo theme. Whether it’s a daring adventure, a silly animal tale, or a heartwarming zoo friendship, young writers are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild.

“At Smoky Hills PBS, we love celebrating the creativity and imagination of young writers across our region," said Betsy Schwien, general manager of Smoky Hills PBS. "The PBS KIDS Writers Contest is a wonderful opportunity for students in 1st through 5th grade to explore storytelling, share their unique voices, and maybe even see their work featured on television. We can’t wait to read all the amazing zoo-themed stories this year!"

Students may submit stories individually, and teachers are also welcome to submit multiple entries on behalf of their classrooms. Printable entry forms are available at <a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/pbs-kids-writers-contest/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>, and completed forms and stories can be emailed to writerscontest@shptv.org.

All entries must be received by February 23, 2026.

Winners will receive prizes and be recognized in May 2026, during the annual Smoky Hills PBS Awards Show, where selected stories will be featured on TV.

The PBS KIDS Writers Contest continues to be a fun and educational opportunity for children to strengthen their writing skills, express themselves creatively, and share their ideas with the community.

Thank you to <a href="https://www.messer-us.com/">Messer: Gases for Life</a> and the Beach Family Foundation for making this year’s 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767716153837.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBSBUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that the 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest is now officially open for entries. The annual contest encourages creativity and imagination by inviting children in 1st through 5th grade to submit their very own original stories.This year introduces a new contest requirement: every story must include a zoo theme. Whether it’s a daring adventure, a silly animal tale, or a heartwarming zoo friendship, young writers are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild.“At Smoky Hills PBS, we love celebrating the creativity and imagination of young writers across our region," said Betsy Schwien, general manager of Smoky Hills PBS. "The PBS KIDS Writers Contest is a wonderful opportunity for students in 1st through 5th grade to explore storytelling, share their unique voices, and maybe even see their work featured on television. We can’t wait to read all the amazing zoo-themed stories this year!"Students may submit stories individually, and teachers are also welcome to submit multiple entries on behalf of their classrooms. Printable entry forms are available at <a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/pbs-kids-writers-contest/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>, and completed forms and stories can be emailed to writerscontest@shptv.org.All entries must be received by February 23, 2026.Winners will receive prizes and be recognized in May 2026, during the annual Smoky Hills PBS Awards Show, where selected stories will be featured on TV.The PBS KIDS Writers Contest continues to be a fun and educational opportunity for children to strengthen their writing skills, express themselves creatively, and share their ideas with the community.Thank you to <a href="https://www.messer-us.com/">Messer: Gases for Life</a> and the Beach Family Foundation for making this year’s 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest possible.

Smoky Hills PBS announces 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest

Those who play connect the dots find the experience relaxing or agitating, depending on results. Some recognize relationships between one concept and another but possess too little information to verify them. Complicating matters, lack of time or money limits investigation. I understand this tension, especially after reading articles about Clovis caches found in North America.

Few share my fascination with Clovis culture let alone have burning interests in stone tools ancient inhabitants hid and didn’t retrieve. While knapped from common materials, these relics equal buried treasure for those who love archeology and connecting to prehistoric stories.

The term Clovis Culture came into existence when a sharp-eyed cowboy noted artifacts formed using a particular bi-faced fluting near Clovis New Mexico. Following his discovery, scientists identified stonework utilizing this pattern as Clovis points. Scholars attribute this style to bison antiquus and mammoth hunters living at the end of the Pleistocene era about 13,000 years ago. Connecting to my world, a journal mentioned caches found in Colorado’s Front Range and Wyoming containing Clovis bifaces made of Niobrara or Smoky Hill Jasper.

Anyone walking country roads or plowed fields in Northwest and North Central Kansas sees this frequently ochre-colored, silicified stone even if they don’t know its name. Researchers identified prehistoric quarries containing outcroppings of this desirable knapping material in Trego, Gove, and Graham Counties in Kansas and Fremont County Nebraska. So did those caches in Colorado and Wyoming contain tools made of stone quarried near my home?

According to research, Western Kansas sites produced desirable knapping material early hunters used for thousands of years. Oklahoma archeologists found artifacts made from it among mammoth and bison bones found during road, dam, and bridge work throughout their state.

This detail makes me wonder how many Pleistocene hunters wandered our region searching for game and resources to make tools. After all, the plains supported modern bison and native cultures who depended on them for survival. Why wouldn’t earlier people roast a mammoth haunch harvested with a spear head made of Smoky Hill jasper?

These nomads wandered from one watershed to another unconcerned about licenses, taxes, or land ownership. A decade ago, Dan Busse in Northeastern Colorado worked his field and noted fingernail-size bits of Smoky Hill jasper that weren’t native to his area. Investigating further, he dug up a hunter’s pack of fluted Clovis-style bifaces. Among them were several manufactured from Niobrara or Smoky Hill jasper, commonly found in western Kansas and Nebraska.

Add to this data details about KU professor Rolfe Mandel’s 2014 dig near Tuttle Creek. His team specifically searched for evidence of Clovis and pre-Clovis inhabitants in what is now Kansas. Lab analysts work to verify the findings.

Though few documented Clovis Cache finds exist in the U.S., research offers hope that any day now a Kansan could make a discovery like a landscaper in Boulder, Colorado, did. While working in his yard, he uncovered a stash of 80 artifacts used to butcher prehistoric camels and horses.

Though I doubt I’ll find such treasure, connecting archeological dots leads me to expect I’ll read about a Kansan who does in 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767124145608.jpeg" alt="Smoky Hill Jasper from Graham Co. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hill Jasper from Graham Co. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINThose who play connect the dots find the experience relaxing or agitating, depending on results. Some recognize relationships between one concept and another but possess too little information to verify them. Complicating matters, lack of time or money limits investigation. I understand this tension, especially after reading articles about Clovis caches found in North America.Few share my fascination with Clovis culture let alone have burning interests in stone tools ancient inhabitants hid and didn’t retrieve. While knapped from common materials, these relics equal buried treasure for those who love archeology and connecting to prehistoric stories.The term Clovis Culture came into existence when a sharp-eyed cowboy noted artifacts formed using a particular bi-faced fluting near Clovis New Mexico. Following his discovery, scientists identified stonework utilizing this pattern as Clovis points. Scholars attribute this style to bison antiquus and mammoth hunters living at the end of the Pleistocene era about 13,000 years ago. Connecting to my world, a journal mentioned caches found in Colorado’s Front Range and Wyoming containing Clovis bifaces made of Niobrara or Smoky Hill Jasper.Anyone walking country roads or plowed fields in Northwest and North Central Kansas sees this frequently ochre-colored, silicified stone even if they don’t know its name. Researchers identified prehistoric quarries containing outcroppings of this desirable knapping material in Trego, Gove, and Graham Counties in Kansas and Fremont County Nebraska. So did those caches in Colorado and Wyoming contain tools made of stone quarried near my home?According to research, Western Kansas sites produced desirable knapping material early hunters used for thousands of years. Oklahoma archeologists found artifacts made from it among mammoth and bison bones found during road, dam, and bridge work throughout their state.This detail makes me wonder how many Pleistocene hunters wandered our region searching for game and resources to make tools. After all, the plains supported modern bison and native cultures who depended on them for survival. Why wouldn’t earlier people roast a mammoth haunch harvested with a spear head made of Smoky Hill jasper?These nomads wandered from one watershed to another unconcerned about licenses, taxes, or land ownership. A decade ago, Dan Busse in Northeastern Colorado worked his field and noted fingernail-size bits of Smoky Hill jasper that weren’t native to his area. Investigating further, he dug up a hunter’s pack of fluted Clovis-style bifaces. Among them were several manufactured from Niobrara or Smoky Hill jasper, commonly found in western Kansas and Nebraska.Add to this data details about KU professor Rolfe Mandel’s 2014 dig near Tuttle Creek. His team specifically searched for evidence of Clovis and pre-Clovis inhabitants in what is now Kansas. Lab analysts work to verify the findings.Though few documented Clovis Cache finds exist in the U.S., research offers hope that any day now a Kansan could make a discovery like a landscaper in Boulder, Colorado, did. While working in his yard, he uncovered a stash of 80 artifacts used to butcher prehistoric camels and horses.Though I doubt I’ll find such treasure, connecting archeological dots leads me to expect I’ll read about a Kansan who does in 2026.

MADORIN: Dot connecting

<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/2026/1/1767796599017.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

Hays City Automotive has moved into a new, expanded location at 1121 East 27th Street, directly across from Jimmy John’s. The shop had previously operated from 808 Milner, Hays. Owner Daniel Dysinger, an automotive technician with two decades of experience, said the larger facility will allow the business to serve more customers and accommodate increasing demand.

The move marks a milestone for the family-owned business, which Daniel operates with support from his wife, Kelly, a nurse, and their two children, Wrenley and Westin. “We wanted a space that let us work more efficiently and continue growing,” Daniel said. “This new building gives us the room to do that.”

Daniel began his career in automotive repair 20 years ago and has built a reputation locally for a straightforward, customer-focused approach. He said many of the shop’s practices grew out of his own experience as a parent and long-time Hays resident who understands how difficult it can be for families to budget time and money for car maintenance.

“Our goal is to make service as clear and convenient as possible,” he said, noting that customers can book appointments online and receive text updates during inspections and repairs.

The expanded facility allows the shop to continue offering core maintenance and repair services, including oil and filter changes, suspension work, brake inspections, AC system diagnostics, and fuel system services. The shop also uses manufacturer-level equipment for computer diagnostics and provides digital vehicle inspection reports, which outline the condition of major systems before any repair decisions are made.

Oil and filter changes remain one of the most common services the shop performs. According to Daniel, many vehicle owners underestimate the importance of routine oil service. As oil breaks down over time, he explained, it becomes less effective at lubricating engine components, which can lead to costly repairs.

During an oil change, the shop also conducts a visual courtesy inspection to evaluate the overall health and safety of the vehicle.

Brake inspections at the shop include checks of pad thickness, calipers, rotors, hydraulic fluid levels, brake hoses, and related hardware. Suspension evaluations address common issues such as vibration, uneven tire wear, and alignment concerns.

For AC issues — including reduced cooling, unusual odors, or leaks — the shop uses modern diagnostic equipment to identify the source of the problem before recommending repairs. In cases involving fuel systems, technicians evaluate conditions that may lead to reduced fuel efficiency or performance, and most repairs are covered under a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

With the move complete, Daniel said he enjoys the new location and its central accessibility to the community. It will help the business continue to grow while maintaining the personal, family-run environment customers are familiar with.

Hays City Automotive shares updates and monthly specials on Facebook and Instagram. The shop is now fully operational at 1121 East 27th Street and open for scheduling.

Hays City Automotive has moved into a new, expanded location at 1121 East 27th Street, directly across from Jimmy John’s. The shop had previously operated from 808 Milner, Hays. Owner Daniel Dysinger, an automotive technician with two decades of experience, said the larger facility will allow the business to serve more customers and accommodate increasing demand.The move marks a milestone for the family-owned business, which Daniel operates with support from his wife, Kelly, a nurse, and their two children, Wrenley and Westin. “We wanted a space that let us work more efficiently and continue growing,” Daniel said. “This new building gives us the room to do that.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767387661513.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Background and approachDaniel began his career in automotive repair 20 years ago and has built a reputation locally for a straightforward, customer-focused approach. He said many of the shop’s practices grew out of his own experience as a parent and long-time Hays resident who understands how difficult it can be for families to budget time and money for car maintenance.“Our goal is to make service as clear and convenient as possible,” he said, noting that customers can book appointments online and receive text updates during inspections and repairs.Services at the New LocationThe expanded facility allows the shop to continue offering core maintenance and repair services, including oil and filter changes, suspension work, brake inspections, AC system diagnostics, and fuel system services. The shop also uses manufacturer-level equipment for computer diagnostics and provides digital vehicle inspection reports, which outline the condition of major systems before any repair decisions are made.Oil and filter changes remain one of the most common services the shop performs. According to Daniel, many vehicle owners underestimate the importance of routine oil service. As oil breaks down over time, he explained, it becomes less effective at lubricating engine components, which can lead to costly repairs.During an oil change, the shop also conducts a visual courtesy inspection to evaluate the overall health and safety of the vehicle.Brake inspections at the shop include checks of pad thickness, calipers, rotors, hydraulic fluid levels, brake hoses, and related hardware. Suspension evaluations address common issues such as vibration, uneven tire wear, and alignment concerns.For AC issues — including reduced cooling, unusual odors, or leaks — the shop uses modern diagnostic equipment to identify the source of the problem before recommending repairs. In cases involving fuel systems, technicians evaluate conditions that may lead to reduced fuel efficiency or performance, and most repairs are covered under a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.Looking AheadWith the move complete, Daniel said he enjoys the new location and its central accessibility to the community. It will help the business continue to grow while maintaining the personal, family-run environment customers are familiar with.Hays City Automotive shares updates and monthly specials on Facebook and Instagram. The shop is now fully operational at 1121 East 27th Street and open for scheduling.

Former WaKeeney police chief pleads not guilty to alleged suspect mistreatment charge

The unemployment rate for Ellis County fell again in Novemeber down to 2.5% compared to 3% in September.

Ellis County also had an unemployment rate of 2.5% in November 2024.

Most of northwest Kansas counties are reporting less than 4%, with the exception of Lane County, which is at 4.1% unemployment for November.

No data was collected for October because of the federal government shutdown.

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in November. This is unchanged from 3.8% in September and unchanged from 3.8% in November 2024. 

The labor force participation rate for Kansas increased to 67.4% in November.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,800 from October. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 3,800 over the month, while government remained unchanged.

The largest job gains in the private sector were in&nbsp;trade, transportation and utilities&nbsp;(+1,500 jobs). The largest decrease was in leisure and hospitality&nbsp;(-300 jobs).

Since November 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 3,500. This change is due to an increase of 5,400 private sector jobs and a decrease of 1,900 government jobs.

The December 2025 Kansas Labor Report will be released on Friday, Jan. 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767814699028.png" alt="Screenshot 2026-01-07 at 1.36.58 PM.png" />
 <figcaption>Screenshot 2026-01-07 at 1.36.58 PM.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of LaborThe unemployment rate for Ellis County fell again in Novemeber down to 2.5% compared to 3% in September.Ellis County also had an unemployment rate of 2.5% in November 2024.Most of northwest Kansas counties are reporting less than 4%, with the exception of Lane County, which is at 4.1% unemployment for November.No data was collected for October because of the federal government shutdown.Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in November. This is unchanged from 3.8% in September and unchanged from 3.8% in November 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas increased to 67.4% in November.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,800 from October. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 3,800 over the month, while government remained unchanged.The largest job gains in the private sector were in&nbsp;trade, transportation and utilities&nbsp;(+1,500 jobs). The largest decrease was in leisure and hospitality&nbsp;(-300 jobs).Since November 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 3,500. This change is due to an increase of 5,400 private sector jobs and a decrease of 1,900 government jobs.The December 2025 Kansas Labor Report will be released on Friday, Jan. 23.

Ellis County unemployment numbers fall again

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe five Hays city commissioners will be sworn into office on Thursday by Jami Breit, city clerk. It's the first meeting of 2026 for the governing body, which will then be reorganized.A new mayor and vice-mayor will be nominated and elected. A tribute to the outgoing mayor, Sandy Jacobs, will follow.Commission members Alaina Cunningham, Sandy Jacobs, Shaun Musil, Mason Ruder will serve four-year terms. The incoming David Vilaysing, who defeated Reese Barrick in the fall general election, will serve a two-year term.&nbsp;&nbsp;The only business on the agenda is a vote to approve the city commission rules of procedure. They contain a&nbsp;complete set of regulations, standards, and procedures that govern the commission proceedings.The complete Jan. 8 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01082026-1589">here</a>. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays City Commission members to be sworn in Thursday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She also urged ibV to plant only native grasses.

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

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

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

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

He said regulations give the pipeline the right of way.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767736827295.png" alt="Members of the Ellis County Commission ask questions of ibV, which has applied for a conditional-use permit for a solar power facility in southwest Ellis County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Members of the Ellis County Commission ask questions of ibV, which has applied for a conditional-use permit for a solar power facility in southwest Ellis County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDeveloper ibV of Florida answered questions for more than two hours during the Ellis County Commission meeting on Tuesday about its proposed $275 million Tallgrass Development solar project in southwest Ellis County.IbV is requesting a conditional-use permit to erect solar panels that would generate&nbsp;175MW of power for the Southwest Power Pool energy market,&nbsp;connecting via ITC Great Plains’ 345-kilovolt Spearville-Post Rock&nbsp;transmission line.The county commission did not take a vote on the conditional-use permit.Darin Myers, Ellis County administrator, said the county will be in talks with ibV during the next two months. He said a vote on the permit is unlikely until March.Due to the number of protest petitions received, approval of the conditional-use permit will require a unanimous vote of the commission.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/43b108f6-bc5c-46de-969e-92813c1887e5">SEE RELATED STORY: Planning commission sends solar project to Ellis County Commission</a>The commission submitted 18 written questions to the ibV in advance of the meeting. Commissioners and members of the public asked additional questions.Some of the concerns included water, decommissioning the site, environmental effects and potential effects on neighbors.WaterAs was discussed at the&nbsp;Joint Ellis County Planning Commission meeting, Steven Link, ibV senior project developer, said the project did not have any need for potable water. The site will need 150 to 250 gallons per day for a small number of on-site operations staff. Link said ibV intends to use pond or reclaimed water.The ibV representatives were asked to whom they intend to sell the power generated by the solar panels. Link said most utilities enter into long-term power purchase agreements. He said power in this region is in demand, but ibV can't enter into an agreement to sell the power until it knows its permit will be approved.IbV has already completed its final interconnection study. It will be required to pay for upgrades to connect to the existing power system.The commissioners asked ibV why it has asked for an extension of its conditional-use permit for up to two years. Robin Saiz, vice president, said some of the high-voltage infrastructure needed to connect to the grid is taking up to 36 months to deliver.&nbsp;Although ibV is required to pay for the connection to the grid, the local power system installs the infrastructure, and projects might also be delayed at this step in the process, Saiz said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767736888956.png" alt="Steven Link, ibV senior project developer, discusses the company's proposed $275 million solar facility with the Ellis County Commission on Tuesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Steven Link, ibV senior project developer, discusses the company's proposed $275 million solar facility with the Ellis County Commission on Tuesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>EnvironmentJackie Augustine, PhD., Audubon of Kansas executive director, said although Audubon generally supports renewable energy, she urged the commission to consider the environmental effects on grassland and wildlife.In a letter submitted to the commission and in oral testimony, she suggested the commission require environmental monitoring prior to permitting, during construction and during operations.Augustine said Audubon urged the construction of solar projects on already disturbed or developed land, not on native grassland.Audubon bases its annual Lek Treks tours of native lesser prairie chicken habitats in Hays. IbV representatives said a walk-through of the site found no activity by lesser prairie chickens. However, they said they intend to conduct additional surveys this spring.Augustine also urged the developer, if the project is approved, to maintain fencing that allows small-animal movement beneath the fences and large-animal movement through and around the development.She also urged ibV to plant only native grasses.IbV has met with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service about the solar project.It has conducted&nbsp;Critical Issues Analysis, a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment, Threatened and Endangered Species Report, Wetland Delineation and a Cultural and Historic Resource Analysis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767736934758.png" alt="Audience members listen to ibV representatives as they answer questions about their proposed solar facility in southwest Ellis County.&nbsp;IbV is requesting a conditional-use permit to erect solar panels that would generate 175MW of power for the Southwest Power Pool energy market. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Audience members listen to ibV representatives as they answer questions about their proposed solar facility in southwest Ellis County.&nbsp;IbV is requesting a conditional-use permit to erect solar panels that would generate 175MW of power for the Southwest Power Pool energy market. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Kaw PipelineThe commission asked ibV if the Kaw Oil Pipeline intersected the site.&nbsp;A representative from the Kaw Pipeline told the commission he had only just been made aware of the solar project. He said he had significant concerns about the project being located over the pipeline.He said regulations give the pipeline the right of way.The ibV representatives said they are working on geological surveys of the property. They did not think the project was over the pipeline, but would determine that soon.DecommissioningIbV will be required to establish a decommissioning bond. The site is supposed to remain active for up to 35 years.The ibV representatives said if the solar farm were ever sold, the bond and conditional-use permit requirements would remain in effect. In the event of bankruptcy, the bond would also cover the site's decommissioning.The commissioners asked about the insurance in the event of hail, high winds or tornadoes.Saiz said the project will be insured for full replacement of the facility.However, the infrastructure will be rated for a category two windstorm and up to 90mm hail. The solar panels track to follow the sun throughout the day. The site will be equipped with a 24/7 monitored weather station.&nbsp;In the event of a storm, the solar panels can be tilted to minimize wind or hail damage.The panels will be made of glass, silicone and lead-free solder. Link said the panels are mainly made of glass. They contain no hazardous liquids or hazmat materials, Link said.In the event of panel damage, a small number of panels may be disposed of in the local landfill if approved by the local environmental director. If a large number of panels needed to be disposed of, they would likely be shipped to another location for recycling.The representatives said the company's insurance would cover the cleanup.Effects on neighborsAlthough earlier generation solar panels reflected light, the current generation does not. The panels also don't emit significant heat, Link said.The panels are not noisy, but the inverters emit a hum equivalent to a household refrigerator, Saiz said.IbV plans to tap directly into the power grid and will not have any on-site battery storage.TimlineIbV plans to start construction on the project during the first half of 2027, with completion in 18 months.Commission chairman Michael Berges asked what would happen if the project were abandoned. Saiz said that it is unlikely, given the company's investment and the value of the transmission interconnection.County attorney Bill Jeter said if ibV started construction and then made no progress for a year, the site could be considered abandoned.&nbsp;Berges requested that quarterly updates on the construction project be a stipulation of the permit.Emergency plan/fireThe ibV representatives said they will have an emergency and fire plan in place before construction begins.Myers, who is also the Ellis County fire chief, said if the project is approved, Ellis County Fire would conduct training at the facility, similar to that done with the Buckeye Wind Farm.He said the fire department would handle a fire at the solar facility the same way it would handle any grass fire. They would let the fire burn to the firefighters and then extinguish it.IbV said they would provide first responders with access to the lock boxes at their gates, and Myers said they could cut through fence if necessary.Payment in lieu of taxesIbV and the county are negotiating a payment in lieu of taxes or PILOT for the first 10 years of the solar facility's operation. That amount is yet to be determined.After 10 years, the state statute stipulates the facility would return to the tax rolls, with taxes going to all taxing entities, including the rural fire district, county and school district.The facility would be just inside the Hays USD 489 boundaries.A condition of the permit will also include a road and bridge escrow account to be used for any repairs or upgrades to county roads resulting from the project.Open houseTallgrass Development will host two open house events at Gella’s venue room. They will be from noon to 2 p.m. and from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22.This will be in a station-type setting where community members can engage directly with the Tallgrass Development Team on specific areas of interest, such as engineering, environmental, community benefits and solar technology.

Solar developer answers Ellis County Commission questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767714892718.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>Kansas Leadership CenterWICHITA – The Kansas Leadership Center, a first-of-its-kind nonprofit educational organization based in Wichita, welcomes a new slate of officers for its 2026 board of directors.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767714606251.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>“This transition in officers reflects KLC’s commitment to strong governance and leadership continuity. This cohort of Kansans are well positioned to support our efforts, and we are excited about the energy this group will bring to our mission of inspiring and equipping people to do difficult things for the common good,” said Kaye Monk-Morgan, president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center.&nbsp;Pete&nbsp;Nájera&nbsp;is the president&nbsp;and CEO of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://unitedwayplains.org/">United Way of the Plains</a>&nbsp;where he works to advance the common good for all citizens in south central Kansas. He is also a combat veteran, having honed his leadership skills in a 20-year Army career that included tours in Korea, Germany and Iraq.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/peter-najera/">Read more</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767715072109.png" alt="Jill Arensdorf. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jill Arensdorf. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Jill Arensdorf learned about leadership at a young age while growing up in rural western Kansas where she participated in 4-H and the National FFA Organization. Today, Dr. Arensdorf serves as provost and vice president for academic affairs at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/leadership/faculty-and-staff/jill-arensdorf/">Fort Hays State University</a>.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/jill-arensdorf/">Read more</a>.&nbsp;Thomas (Tom) Carignan is an experienced financial services leader with over 20 years’ experience currently serving the members of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.communityamerica.com/">CommunityAmerica Credit Union</a>. A native of Hutchinson, Carignan has been engaged in the community from a very early age.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/thomas-carignan/">Read more</a>.The Honorable Gwynne E. Birzer’s legal career has spanned over 33 years in such roles as an assistant district attorney, assistant public defender, assistant attorney general, founding and leading her own law firm, and rising to partner in the law firm Hite, Fanning, and Honeyman LLP. She was appointed as the sixth United States magistrate judge sitting in Wichita in 2015.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/team/gwynne-birzer/">Read more</a>.&nbsp;One board member, Frank York, is retiring from the board after 13 years of service.“We offer our sincere gratitude to Frank York, who has given KLC’s board of directors 13 years of dedicated service. His leadership and commitment have been invaluable to KLC’s mission, and we wish him all the best in retirement,” said Monk-Morgan.&nbsp;Learn more at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/">KansasLeadershipCenter.org</a>.

FHSU provost named to Kansas Leadership Center 2026 board of directors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767718663974.jpeg" alt="A crew member measures water levels in a well in western Kansas.&nbsp; Photo by Kansas Geological Survey" />
 <figcaption>A crew member measures water levels in a well in western Kansas.&nbsp; Photo by Kansas Geological Survey</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Geological SurveyLAWRENCE — A crew from the Kansas Geological Survey, based at the University of Kansas, along with staff from three field offices of the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources, was in western Kansas to measure groundwater levels the first week of January 2026.Levels are measured annually as part of a joint project to monitor the health of the state’s valuable groundwater resources. Most of the wells measured by KGS and DWR tap into the High Plains aquifer, a massive network of underground water-bearing rocks and the main source of water in western Kansas. The rest draw from deeper aquifers or shallower alluvial aquifers along creeks and rivers.The KGS crew performed work near Colby, Goodland, Elkhart and Liberal.Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager, said timely precipitation during the 2025 growing season should contribute to water-level increases in some parts of south-central Kansas.“We started 2025 a little on the dry side across much of western and south-central Kansas, but that all changed going into the summer months and continuing into the fall,” Wilson said. “Many producers I’ve talked to were very pleased with not only the amount but timeliness of the rains this past growing season. Given south-central Kansas’ propensity to recharge in response to higher precipitation events, we should see water levels rise across most of the region.”For the Ogallala portions of the High Plains aquifer in the western third of the state, though, Wilson expects to see mixed results.“Several counties in west-central Kansas along with portions of northwest Kansas will likely have fairly stable water levels this year with smaller pockets of water-level declines,” he said. “This will also be true for areas in southwest Kansas; however, I anticipate areas that traditionally have seen past rates of decline will likely do so again this year.”The High Plains aquifer underlies portions of eight states. In Kansas, it encompasses three individual aquifers — the Ogallala aquifer in the western third of the state, the Equus Beds around Wichita and Hutchinson, and the Great Bend Prairie aquifer around Pratt and Great Bend.Groundwater levels in much of the state’s portion of the Ogallala aquifer have been on the decline since water use started to rise in the mid-20th century. Dry years lead to increased water usage, primarily for irrigation, which in turn typically causes greater declines in water levels.KGS and DWR measure depth to water in roughly 1,400 wells in 48 counties, primarily in January to avoid as much as possible skewed data associated with short-term declines caused by widespread pumping during the growing season. This year, KGS will measure 569 wells, and crews from the DWR’s field offices in Garden City, Stafford and Stockton will measure 824.Wells are accessed with landowners’ permission, and many have been monitored for years, although new wells are added as older wells become inaccessible or to fill in spatial gaps in the monitoring network. The majority are within the boundaries of the state’s five groundwater management districts (GMDs), which are organized and governed by area landowners and water users to address local water-resource issues.Historical annual measurements for each well are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kgs.ku.edu/Magellan/WaterLevels/index.html">KGS website</a>. Results of measurements made in January will be added in late February.

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