By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway, was in Hays Saturday campaigning for governor in 2026.

Corson stopped by the Eagle Media Center for an interview with Hays Post before <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/886b8285-39fd-4828-ac95-b3d6d19331b9">joining other candidates on stage at Democracy Fest</a>&nbsp;on Saturday.

"The first issue I'm going to tackle as governor is the affordability crisis in Kansas," Corson said.

Corson said Kansas has become too expensive for many residents, a concern that first motivated him to run for the state Senate. He said the state has drifted from being a place where people could once afford a middle-class lifestyle and retire comfortably.

Corson said he worked across party lines on the Senate Tax Committee to eliminate taxes on Social Security, lower property taxes and expand the senior property tax freeze program.

"We need to have a child tax credit for our working Kansas families to keep more money in their pockets so they can pay for things like child care," Corson said.

Corson said there is a need to double the 20-mill property tax exemption to $150,000 in assessed value, eliminate taxes on tips, and raise the minimum wage to $15 and index it to the cost of living.

"Hard work is a Kansas value, but I don't think anybody who works full time should be living in poverty," he said.

Corson said K-12 education is a core Kansas value and emphasized the next governor will need to reauthorize or create a new school funding formula before the current one expires at the end of 2026.

"I'm going to veto any bill that I don't think fully funds our schools and does it in an adequate and equitable way, including making sure rural schools are taken care of," he said.

Corson said the state faces a teacher shortage that is expected to worsen, attributing it to low pay and a lack of incentives for younger generations to enter the profession as many current educators near retirement.

Corson also said he supports fully funding special education. Hays school district officials have lobbied for more state funding.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">Hays USD 489 saw a cost increase of almost $822,000 for special education for the 2025-26 school year.</a>

"I think that the approach that Gov. Laura Kelly has laid out is the right one to get us to that 92% which is what state law requires. We haven't met that since 2011," he said.

Corson said Kansas is decades behind on long-term water preservation but recognizes Gov. Kelly’s efforts to secure additional resources for water projects. He noted bipartisan progress on water issues in the Legislature and voiced support for establishing a dedicated task force.

"What I want to do as governor is figure out a dedicated funding stream for water so we can make progress on implementing those recommendations of the task force," Corson said.

Corson said he was not aware of the R9 Ranch project.

Corson said Kansas has 100 rural hospitals, with 67 at high risk of closing. He said he was disappointed over recent federal legislation that included cuts to Medicaid and rural health care.

"I want to do everything I can to keep our hospitals open," he said. "I want to have a task force that looks at rural health care to come up with specific recommendations of what we can do along those lines to make sure that we are trying to protect our hospitals."

Corson said he met with community health center leaders in southwest Kansas to discuss their challenges, noting that many stem, to some extent, from the state’s failure to expand Medicaid.

Corson said there is a shortage of mental health beds and pledged to increase funding to expand capacity. He said the state has fallen behind in addressing the issue and is now trying to catch up.

"We have moved the ball forward in that direction over the past several years, but we haven't gone far enough and fast enough. There's still a lot of work that needs to be done," Corson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760993311446.jpeg" alt="Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostSen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway, was in Hays Saturday campaigning for governor in 2026.Corson stopped by the Eagle Media Center for an interview with Hays Post before <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/886b8285-39fd-4828-ac95-b3d6d19331b9">joining other candidates on stage at Democracy Fest</a>&nbsp;on Saturday."The first issue I'm going to tackle as governor is the affordability crisis in Kansas," Corson said.Corson said Kansas has become too expensive for many residents, a concern that first motivated him to run for the state Senate. He said the state has drifted from being a place where people could once afford a middle-class lifestyle and retire comfortably.Corson said he worked across party lines on the Senate Tax Committee to eliminate taxes on Social Security, lower property taxes and expand the senior property tax freeze program."We need to have a child tax credit for our working Kansas families to keep more money in their pockets so they can pay for things like child care," Corson said.Corson said there is a need to double the 20-mill property tax exemption to $150,000 in assessed value, eliminate taxes on tips, and raise the minimum wage to $15 and index it to the cost of living."Hard work is a Kansas value, but I don't think anybody who works full time should be living in poverty," he said.EducationCorson said K-12 education is a core Kansas value and emphasized the next governor will need to reauthorize or create a new school funding formula before the current one expires at the end of 2026."I'm going to veto any bill that I don't think fully funds our schools and does it in an adequate and equitable way, including making sure rural schools are taken care of," he said.Corson said the state faces a teacher shortage that is expected to worsen, attributing it to low pay and a lack of incentives for younger generations to enter the profession as many current educators near retirement.Corson also said he supports fully funding special education. Hays school district officials have lobbied for more state funding.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">Hays USD 489 saw a cost increase of almost $822,000 for special education for the 2025-26 school year.</a>"I think that the approach that Gov. Laura Kelly has laid out is the right one to get us to that 92% which is what state law requires. We haven't met that since 2011," he said.WaterCorson said Kansas is decades behind on long-term water preservation but recognizes Gov. Kelly’s efforts to secure additional resources for water projects. He noted bipartisan progress on water issues in the Legislature and voiced support for establishing a dedicated task force."What I want to do as governor is figure out a dedicated funding stream for water so we can make progress on implementing those recommendations of the task force," Corson said.Corson said he was not aware of the R9 Ranch project.Health care and mental healthCorson said Kansas has 100 rural hospitals, with 67 at high risk of closing. He said he was disappointed over recent federal legislation that included cuts to Medicaid and rural health care."I want to do everything I can to keep our hospitals open," he said. "I want to have a task force that looks at rural health care to come up with specific recommendations of what we can do along those lines to make sure that we are trying to protect our hospitals."Corson said he met with community health center leaders in southwest Kansas to discuss their challenges, noting that many stem, to some extent, from the state’s failure to expand Medicaid.Corson said there is a shortage of mental health beds and pledged to increase funding to expand capacity. He said the state has fallen behind in addressing the issue and is now trying to catch up."We have moved the ball forward in that direction over the past several years, but we haven't gone far enough and fast enough. There's still a lot of work that needs to be done," Corson said.

Gubernatorial candidate Corson seeks to double 20-mill property tax exemption 

The six candidates for Hays City Commission were interviewed by the Hays Post. Their responses are being presented in a question-and-answer format. The other candidates running include Samuel Allen, Reese Barrick, Sandy Jacobs, David Koshiol, Shaun Musil and David Vilaysing.

Allen did not respond to Hays Post's request for an interview.&nbsp;

Allen was&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e91cd79-cb0f-4efc-a6f1-2dc8ddbbe8d9">arrested on a charge of alleged blackmail</a>&nbsp;in July.

Also listed on the ballot but not pursuing office are Kelly Ancar and Justin Choitz.

Three seats are available on the board. The two candidates with the highest number of votes will each receive a four-year term. The third-highest candidate will serve a two-year term. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Age: 41 Occupation: Remote&nbsp;worker for InvoiceCloud based in Boston as a project program manager for higher education and technology companies

Why are you running for Hays City Commission?

I grew up in Hays, graduated from K-State and moved to Boston where I met my husband. About a year ago, we decided to move back to Hays to be closer to family and enjoy the slower pace of living.

I wanted to re-engage myself with the community, and I think giving back is important. I fully understand I haven't been here in a long time, and I'm very focused on listening to the folks who live here and understanding their perspective, bringing those viewpoints into the role of a city commissioner.

As a new candidate, do you have any relevant/political experience?&nbsp;

I served as vice president of the Framingham Centre Nursery School board in Massachusetts, which further developed my abilities in community-focused decision-making and advocacy.

At Hays High, I was involved in FFA and was drum major for the band.&nbsp;

In my job, I spend a lot of time working with large groups and managing large budgets and projects.&nbsp;

What is the most pressing issue(s) the city of Hays faces?

One of them is our infrastructure and planning, especially around things like water. Making sure we have enough water is essential and key to everything we do.

I also think we have a lot of work to do around housing. Do we have enough and in the right mix for people?

Are we taking care of our health care landscape? Do we have accessible health care, including good mental health services? Fortunately, in Hays, we do have organizations that make sure things like that are supported, can grow and be accessed.

It's been suggested by a local developer that the city provide free land for construction of new homes costing $150,00 or less. What are your thoughts about housing in Hays?&nbsp;

There are a lot of things that go into housing for low-income or unhoused folks. Providing free land could certainly be a piece of that.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ae1db76a-b42e-4a7e-8a6d-64505465e8a1">A recent quarterly luncheon by Grow Hays explained how RHIDs work and their economic impact on the city.&nbsp;</a>

I think it's a two-way street between the community sharing ideas like that and the city commission hearing them, understanding what's possible and sharing their ideas back with the community.&nbsp;

I want to create an environment where people feel like they can be a part of the solution.&nbsp;

The city narrowly avoided a 2-mill levy increase in the 2026 budget. How would you keep the mill levy at 25 mills? Should it instead be increased?&nbsp;

It's always a challenge. How much do we fund our community? How much do we pay as citizens in our taxes to fund the things that we use every day? No one likes to pay a huge amount of money in taxes, but I also think the things that we fund are incredibly important.

Whether it's the airport or something else we should be funding, I'm sure there are times when the mill levy will have to be raised a little bit. That's just the reality of how things go. I think it's something voters should have a say in, and we can decide as a community what is important, what is essential.

Budgets should be managed responsibly and carefully, appropriately and effectively as possible. I think our city employees do a good job of managing their budgets.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7d615ae1-9b48-4ebd-9200-7c593c85db69">The governing body of Hays chose to remain revenue neutral for the budget year 2026.</a>

Are there areas in the city budget or departments that can be streamlined? What would you change in the city's current operations?

In general, I think our city employees have their best interests at heart for the city of Hays, want to serve their community and to do the right thing for the neighbors they live next to.

To save money, sometimes you spend a little money. Do employees need additional training for new roles? We have an explosion of AI technology. Are there ways we can optimize relationships with platforms and vendors? Are there additional tools or resources the employees need to make them more efficient or make our community better?

Should each city park become more "individualized," offering different/fewer amenities at each location to save maintenance costs?

It's certainly worth looking at. There's a lot of research that shows everyone needs outdoor time—fresh air, sunshine and exercise.

It's nice to have bathrooms in our parks. Each park is unique, but each has what we need, and I think that's important.

There are organizations in town that have stepped up to sponsor or take care of them.

Part of it is our community involvement. I've been places where we've done a lot more community clean-up days, helping paint parks, helping repair broken playground equipment, things like that. There are regulations around that, and you have to be careful, but it's one of the things we can look at.

I don't love the idea of some parks perhaps getting special treatment because I think every park in every neighborhood is special. I want to make sure we have a fair and equitable distribution of the joys that our parks bring.

Should the city get involved in the operation of the public transportation program ACCESS, which is struggling with its funding? Should the city offer greater financial support?

I spent a lot of time using public transportation in Boston, one of the first U.S. cities to have public transportation. I'm a big believer and big user of public transportation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It's important that we make our city multi-functional. If you don't have a car, it can be difficult to get to where you need to go. 

Walkable cities and neighborhoods are important as well. Looking at ways to expand walkability, making sure our bike paths and lanes are accessible, and their use is encouraged, is part of public transportation.

I would hate to see the ACCESS vans go away. That service is key, even if it's a more set schedule that runs, which is not quite as flexible as anytime, anywhere.&nbsp;

Building up the opportunities for having more rideshares, or having neighbors build a community where they can give rides to each other, is also really key.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dc146924-9a33-439f-bb6a-180129cff07a">ACCESS General Public Transportation in Hays is still facing a 2026 funding gap after the city of Hays and Ellis County made contributions.&nbsp;</a>

I'm really interested in learning what's happening in Hays. I'm not just asking for people's votes. I really want their partnership.

I want to help in understanding what's working, what's not working, where can we keep investing, where should we be dialing back, where should we be shifting. That really comes from the people living in the community.

This is where people choose to live and stay. If you're invested in it and have a stake in the game, that makes a huge difference.&nbsp;

Community is not something you get passively. You have to be involved if you want something to get better or something to stay good.

The six candidates for Hays City Commission were interviewed by the Hays Post. Their responses are being presented in a question-and-answer format. The other candidates running include Samuel Allen, Reese Barrick, Sandy Jacobs, David Koshiol, Shaun Musil and David Vilaysing.Allen did not respond to Hays Post's request for an interview.&nbsp;

Allen was&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e91cd79-cb0f-4efc-a6f1-2dc8ddbbe8d9">arrested on a charge of alleged blackmail</a>&nbsp;in July.Also listed on the ballot but not pursuing office are Kelly Ancar and Justin Choitz.Three seats are available on the board. The two candidates with the highest number of votes will each receive a four-year term. The third-highest candidate will serve a two-year term. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760626449657.png" alt="Candace (CJ) Hathaway. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Candace (CJ) Hathaway. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Age: 41 Occupation: Remote&nbsp;worker for InvoiceCloud based in Boston as a project program manager for higher education and technology companiesWhy are you running for Hays City Commission?I grew up in Hays, graduated from K-State and moved to Boston where I met my husband. About a year ago, we decided to move back to Hays to be closer to family and enjoy the slower pace of living.I wanted to re-engage myself with the community, and I think giving back is important. I fully understand I haven't been here in a long time, and I'm very focused on listening to the folks who live here and understanding their perspective, bringing those viewpoints into the role of a city commissioner.As a new candidate, do you have any relevant/political experience?&nbsp;I served as vice president of the Framingham Centre Nursery School board in Massachusetts, which further developed my abilities in community-focused decision-making and advocacy.At Hays High, I was involved in FFA and was drum major for the band.&nbsp;In my job, I spend a lot of time working with large groups and managing large budgets and projects.&nbsp;What is the most pressing issue(s) the city of Hays faces?One of them is our infrastructure and planning, especially around things like water. Making sure we have enough water is essential and key to everything we do.I also think we have a lot of work to do around housing. Do we have enough and in the right mix for people?Are we taking care of our health care landscape? Do we have accessible health care, including good mental health services? Fortunately, in Hays, we do have organizations that make sure things like that are supported, can grow and be accessed.It's been suggested by a local developer that the city provide free land for construction of new homes costing $150,00 or less. What are your thoughts about housing in Hays?&nbsp;There are a lot of things that go into housing for low-income or unhoused folks. Providing free land could certainly be a piece of that.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ae1db76a-b42e-4a7e-8a6d-64505465e8a1">A recent quarterly luncheon by Grow Hays explained how RHIDs work and their economic impact on the city.&nbsp;</a>I think it's a two-way street between the community sharing ideas like that and the city commission hearing them, understanding what's possible and sharing their ideas back with the community.&nbsp;I want to create an environment where people feel like they can be a part of the solution.&nbsp;The city narrowly avoided a 2-mill levy increase in the 2026 budget. How would you keep the mill levy at 25 mills? Should it instead be increased?&nbsp;It's always a challenge. How much do we fund our community? How much do we pay as citizens in our taxes to fund the things that we use every day? No one likes to pay a huge amount of money in taxes, but I also think the things that we fund are incredibly important.Whether it's the airport or something else we should be funding, I'm sure there are times when the mill levy will have to be raised a little bit. That's just the reality of how things go. I think it's something voters should have a say in, and we can decide as a community what is important, what is essential.Budgets should be managed responsibly and carefully, appropriately and effectively as possible. I think our city employees do a good job of managing their budgets.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7d615ae1-9b48-4ebd-9200-7c593c85db69">The governing body of Hays chose to remain revenue neutral for the budget year 2026.</a>Are there areas in the city budget or departments that can be streamlined? What would you change in the city's current operations?In general, I think our city employees have their best interests at heart for the city of Hays, want to serve their community and to do the right thing for the neighbors they live next to.To save money, sometimes you spend a little money. Do employees need additional training for new roles? We have an explosion of AI technology. Are there ways we can optimize relationships with platforms and vendors? Are there additional tools or resources the employees need to make them more efficient or make our community better?Should each city park become more "individualized," offering different/fewer amenities at each location to save maintenance costs?It's certainly worth looking at. There's a lot of research that shows everyone needs outdoor time—fresh air, sunshine and exercise.It's nice to have bathrooms in our parks. Each park is unique, but each has what we need, and I think that's important.There are organizations in town that have stepped up to sponsor or take care of them.Part of it is our community involvement. I've been places where we've done a lot more community clean-up days, helping paint parks, helping repair broken playground equipment, things like that. There are regulations around that, and you have to be careful, but it's one of the things we can look at.I don't love the idea of some parks perhaps getting special treatment because I think every park in every neighborhood is special. I want to make sure we have a fair and equitable distribution of the joys that our parks bring.Should the city get involved in the operation of the public transportation program ACCESS, which is struggling with its funding? Should the city offer greater financial support?I spent a lot of time using public transportation in Boston, one of the first U.S. cities to have public transportation. I'm a big believer and big user of public transportation.&nbsp;&nbsp;It's important that we make our city multi-functional. If you don't have a car, it can be difficult to get to where you need to go. Walkable cities and neighborhoods are important as well. Looking at ways to expand walkability, making sure our bike paths and lanes are accessible, and their use is encouraged, is part of public transportation.I would hate to see the ACCESS vans go away. That service is key, even if it's a more set schedule that runs, which is not quite as flexible as anytime, anywhere.&nbsp;Building up the opportunities for having more rideshares, or having neighbors build a community where they can give rides to each other, is also really key.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dc146924-9a33-439f-bb6a-180129cff07a">ACCESS General Public Transportation in Hays is still facing a 2026 funding gap after the city of Hays and Ellis County made contributions.&nbsp;</a>Anything else you'd like to add?I'm really interested in learning what's happening in Hays. I'm not just asking for people's votes. I really want their partnership.I want to help in understanding what's working, what's not working, where can we keep investing, where should we be dialing back, where should we be shifting. That really comes from the people living in the community.This is where people choose to live and stay. If you're invested in it and have a stake in the game, that makes a huge difference.&nbsp;Community is not something you get passively. You have to be involved if you want something to get better or something to stay good.As told to Becky Kiser/Hays Post

Hays City Commission Candidate Q&A: Candace (CJ) Hathaway

The United Way of Ellis County announces the opening of the 2026 CARE Council application process.

Any&nbsp;501(c)(3) that provides services in Ellis County is eligible to apply. The services must meet one of the three&nbsp;criteria of education, health, and financial stability.

The CARE Council is made up of 12 community volunteers who review the applications to determine funding for&nbsp;the United Way of Ellis County, City of Hays social service funds and alcohol tax funds, and Ellis County&nbsp;alcohol tax funds.

The online application for funding can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://liveunited.us/apply2026">https://liveunited.us/apply2026</a>

Deadline for submission is Friday, December 5.

For questions, please contact Bill Ring, interim executive director, at 785-628-8281 or&nbsp;info@liveunited.us.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760554512755.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>United WayThe United Way of Ellis County announces the opening of the 2026 CARE Council application process.Any&nbsp;501(c)(3) that provides services in Ellis County is eligible to apply. The services must meet one of the three&nbsp;criteria of education, health, and financial stability.The CARE Council is made up of 12 community volunteers who review the applications to determine funding for&nbsp;the United Way of Ellis County, City of Hays social service funds and alcohol tax funds, and Ellis County&nbsp;alcohol tax funds.The online application for funding can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://liveunited.us/apply2026">https://liveunited.us/apply2026</a>Deadline for submission is Friday, December 5.For questions, please contact Bill Ring, interim executive director, at 785-628-8281 or&nbsp;info@liveunited.us.

Ellis County United Way 2026 funding applications now open

Tickets on Sale for Cancer Cash fundraiser Nov. 7

The Fort Hays State University assistant professor says FHSU's review into her is still ongoing as she is discussing options with a legal team in case her First Amendment rights have been violated.

Nuchelle Chance of the psychology department has raised more than $1,600 through her <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/fighting-black-against-academic-censorship-retaliation?attribution_id=sl:01768fb0-d256-45cd-a8e4-5803dbcdd611&amp;lang=en_US&amp;ts=1760971046&amp;utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&amp;utm_content=amp17_te&amp;utm_medium=customer&amp;utm_source=facebook">GoFundMe</a>. She said her main concern is the double standard she believes exists at the university.

"How can some of my other FHSU colleagues say some of the most truly egregious and bigoted things on social media or even on campus and face little to no repercussion," she said.

"I can't help but think [correlationally] that if I was white, no one would have targeted me. The irony of being the only Black American woman on the faculty doing applied social justice work in rural Kansas isn't lost on me."

Hays Post reached out to&nbsp;Scott Cason, FHSU’s chief communications officer, and said he is not aware of other faculty making these comments.

Chance is seeking to raise $50,000, according to the fundraiser’s description, to cover legal fees and help with living expenses while she is without a paycheck.

Cason said FHSU is handling the situation as a confidential personnel matter but is aware of Chance’s social media posts about her employment status and her stated intentions as she moves through the process.

On Sept. 10, the day Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a debate at Utah Valley University, Chance posted the following:

Since then, Chance said she has been doxxed and received threats severe enough that she felt compelled to move her children out of Hays for their safety.

"I'm overwhelmed and disgusted. My health has been suffering, but as a millennial, I find that the moments of humor are keeping me grounded," Chance said.

Chance said she has also received an outpouring of support from colleagues, friends, students and community members.

In a recent social media post, Chance said she has been receiving support from the <a href="https://www.aaup.org/">American Association of University Professors</a>, an organization that helps uphold academic freedom standards in higher education.

On Sept. 29, Cason said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2025/09/fort-hays-state-university-statement-regarding-recent-social-media-post-about-race-and-violence#gsc.tab=0">press release</a>&nbsp;that the university is aware of content on the X account Libs of TikTok, a right-wing social media account on X with 4.4 million followers, linking a faculty member to social media posts about Charlie Kirk.&nbsp;

"Individuals who post commentaries to their personal social media accounts do not speak for the University, nor does their commentary reflect the views or values of this university," Cason said in a past statement from the university.

Cason said FHSU is reviewing the situation as a confidential personnel matter and asks for patience as they address it.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/67bf5501-02df-472c-a43a-a4ff11ff5305">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU assistant professor under review for posts about Charlie Kirk</a>

"I make no apologies as nothing I stated was inaccurate, libelous, slanderous, immoral, etc.," Chance said in response to Hays Post. "I speak truth. Is it controversial and even sometimes inflammatory? It can be, but if it offends then my message is to do better."

Chance initially defended her Facebook posts about the assassination of Kirk in a TikTok video.

"In my post, I just stated that there's karma," Chance said in the TikTok video. "There's irony associated with that, and that's by no means to celebrate someone's death."

Chance also made the following post that resulted in Libs of TikTok to further draw attention to her and bring them to FHSU’s awareness:

The university also shared its press release on its X page, where Libs of TikTok responded with criticism.

"Sorry, but I don't have 'patience' for professors who call white Americans 'dangerous animals' and mock the murder of a young father. This statement says absolutely nothing," the X post said.

On Oct. 14, a <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/14/private-chat-among-young-gop-club-members-00592146?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR4rh1vKo0TPjSl8iLS0zXiVJTMfHMaGjXdVYALFYQT5TAgjYkVhpcOm3vtb4w_aem_Xu_8IK_zmXb9J8eshdaMGA">Politico article</a> revealed&nbsp;Kansas Young Republicans chairman Alex Dwyer and vice chair William Hendrix took part in a Telegram group chat, which included references to white supremacy and suppression of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Chance made a social media post saying, "This scandal exposes real racism, real violence and real threats coming from individuals with political power and proximity to our institutions."

"If we can swiftly condemn encrypted hate speech from political operatives, we must also protect educators who face retaliation for public scholarship rooted in data, ethics and lived experience."

The FHSU College Republicans issued a statement condemning Kansas Young Republicans for sending texts with violent, racist and antisemtic rhetroic.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/55386b06-0277-48fb-bcb9-7428394a419c">FHSU College Republicans react to Kansas Young Republicans racist chats</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760979457005.png" alt="Nuchelle Chance" />
 <figcaption>Nuchelle Chance</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Fort Hays State University assistant professor says FHSU's review into her is still ongoing as she is discussing options with a legal team in case her First Amendment rights have been violated.Nuchelle Chance of the psychology department has raised more than $1,600 through her <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/fighting-black-against-academic-censorship-retaliation?attribution_id=sl:01768fb0-d256-45cd-a8e4-5803dbcdd611&amp;lang=en_US&amp;ts=1760971046&amp;utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&amp;utm_content=amp17_te&amp;utm_medium=customer&amp;utm_source=facebook">GoFundMe</a>. She said her main concern is the double standard she believes exists at the university."How can some of my other FHSU colleagues say some of the most truly egregious and bigoted things on social media or even on campus and face little to no repercussion," she said."I can't help but think [correlationally] that if I was white, no one would have targeted me. The irony of being the only Black American woman on the faculty doing applied social justice work in rural Kansas isn't lost on me."Hays Post reached out to&nbsp;Scott Cason, FHSU’s chief communications officer, and said he is not aware of other faculty making these comments.Chance is seeking to raise $50,000, according to the fundraiser’s description, to cover legal fees and help with living expenses while she is without a paycheck.Cason said FHSU is handling the situation as a confidential personnel matter but is aware of Chance’s social media posts about her employment status and her stated intentions as she moves through the process.On Sept. 10, the day Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a debate at Utah Valley University, Chance posted the following:<figure>
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 </figure>Since then, Chance said she has been doxxed and received threats severe enough that she felt compelled to move her children out of Hays for their safety."I'm overwhelmed and disgusted. My health has been suffering, but as a millennial, I find that the moments of humor are keeping me grounded," Chance said.Chance said she has also received an outpouring of support from colleagues, friends, students and community members.In a recent social media post, Chance said she has been receiving support from the <a href="https://www.aaup.org/">American Association of University Professors</a>, an organization that helps uphold academic freedom standards in higher education.On Sept. 29, Cason said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2025/09/fort-hays-state-university-statement-regarding-recent-social-media-post-about-race-and-violence#gsc.tab=0">press release</a>&nbsp;that the university is aware of content on the X account Libs of TikTok, a right-wing social media account on X with 4.4 million followers, linking a faculty member to social media posts about Charlie Kirk.&nbsp;"Individuals who post commentaries to their personal social media accounts do not speak for the University, nor does their commentary reflect the views or values of this university," Cason said in a past statement from the university.Cason said FHSU is reviewing the situation as a confidential personnel matter and asks for patience as they address it.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/67bf5501-02df-472c-a43a-a4ff11ff5305">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU assistant professor under review for posts about Charlie Kirk</a>"I make no apologies as nothing I stated was inaccurate, libelous, slanderous, immoral, etc.," Chance said in response to Hays Post. "I speak truth. Is it controversial and even sometimes inflammatory? It can be, but if it offends then my message is to do better."Chance initially defended her Facebook posts about the assassination of Kirk in a TikTok video.<div><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@drchancespeaks/video/7555678574372490527" data-video-id="7555678574372490527" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;" > <section> <a target="_blank" title="@drchancespeaks" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@drchancespeaks?refer=embed">@drchancespeaks</a> When <a title="maga" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maga?refer=embed">#MAGA</a> attacks.... your <a title="academicfreedom" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/academicfreedom?refer=embed">#academicfreedom</a> and <a title="firstamendment" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/firstamendment?refer=embed">#firstamendment</a> rights are discarded. <a title="charliekirk" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/charliekirk?refer=embed">#CharlieKirk</a> sympathizers think they can break me..... but my resolve is different. Thanks @xx_shotgunmary_xx <a target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - dr.chance_speaks" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7555678616902798111?refer=embed">♬ original sound - dr.chance_speaks</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div>"In my post, I just stated that there's karma," Chance said in the TikTok video. "There's irony associated with that, and that's by no means to celebrate someone's death."Chance also made the following post that resulted in Libs of TikTok to further draw attention to her and bring them to FHSU’s awareness:<figure>
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 </figure>The university also shared its press release on its X page, where Libs of TikTok responded with criticism."Sorry, but I don't have 'patience' for professors who call white Americans 'dangerous animals' and mock the murder of a young father. This statement says absolutely nothing," the X post said.On Oct. 14, a <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/14/private-chat-among-young-gop-club-members-00592146?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR4rh1vKo0TPjSl8iLS0zXiVJTMfHMaGjXdVYALFYQT5TAgjYkVhpcOm3vtb4w_aem_Xu_8IK_zmXb9J8eshdaMGA">Politico article</a> revealed&nbsp;Kansas Young Republicans chairman Alex Dwyer and vice chair William Hendrix took part in a Telegram group chat, which included references to white supremacy and suppression of the Jeffrey Epstein files.Chance made a social media post saying, "This scandal exposes real racism, real violence and real threats coming from individuals with political power and proximity to our institutions.""If we can swiftly condemn encrypted hate speech from political operatives, we must also protect educators who face retaliation for public scholarship rooted in data, ethics and lived experience."The FHSU College Republicans issued a statement condemning Kansas Young Republicans for sending texts with violent, racist and antisemtic rhetroic.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/55386b06-0277-48fb-bcb9-7428394a419c">FHSU College Republicans react to Kansas Young Republicans racist chats</a>

FHSU assistant professor receives threats for Charlie Kirk posts; online fundraiser

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Ellis County Jail bookings: Oct. 12-18, 2025

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Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: Oct. 12-18, 2025

WALLACE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2a.m. Monday in Wallace County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Dodge pickup driven by&nbsp; Chance E.&nbsp; Collins, 20, Amarillo, Texas was northbound on Kansas 27 thirteen miles north of Sharon Springs. The driver felt the vehicle hit something in the road and traveled into the west ditch.&nbsp; The pickup struck a field access, went air borne and rolled end over end one time before coming to rest on its roof in the ditch.

EMS transported the driver to Goodland Regional Medical Center. He was no wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

WALLACE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2a.m. Monday in Wallace County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Dodge pickup driven by&nbsp; Chance E.&nbsp; Collins, 20, Amarillo, Texas was northbound on Kansas 27 thirteen miles north of Sharon Springs. The driver felt the vehicle hit something in the road and traveled into the west ditch.&nbsp; The pickup struck a field access, went air borne and rolled end over end one time before coming to rest on its roof in the ditch.EMS transported the driver to Goodland Regional Medical Center. He was no wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized in NW Kansas after violent pickup crash

Kansas Democrats campaigning across the state made their last stop in Hays Saturday for Democracy Fest.

The event included candidates for U.S. Senate, Kansas Governor and Secretary of State. Kansas Democratic Party Chairwoman Jeanna Repass said Democrats are in a “dog fight” to keep their momentum going.

"In our state's history, we've never followed two back-to-back [governor] Democrats with another Democrat," Repass said.&nbsp;

Candidates also visited Colby and Dodge City to speak with Kansans and attended the “No Kings” rally in Hays after Democracy Fest.

Sen. Cindy Holscher spoke about her rural background and what drove her to address school underfunding during former Gov. Sam Brownback’s administration.

Holscher said she has been one of the most successful Democrats at getting legislation passed.

"I've led initiatives to make lives more affordable for Kansans, including restoration of childhood tax credits, eliminating sales tax on food, eliminating taxes on Social Security, and I fought for single moms to make sure they get the child care payments they're owed," she said.

Sen. Ethan Corson tied his campaign to his western Kansas roots, vowing to make the state a place where future generations can thrive.

Corson said he will support rural health care, technical education and fair redistricting, noting he has previously challenged Ty Masterson over gerrymandered maps.

"We need to make Kansas more affordable. We need to bring in more jobs and businesses to keep young people in our state so they can have the careers that they want," he said. "We need to support our public schools, which are the backbone of our rural communities."

Christy Cauble Davis highlighted her work across rural Kansas, including projects in downtown Hays, and said Kansans deserve representatives who show up and listen to their constituents.

"Kansas is different than any other state in the nation. We have a unique culture and history that changes the way we need to address things," she said.

Sandy Spidel Neumann, who recently announced her campaign, drew on her 40-year career in financial services, saying it taught her both fiscal responsibility and how to stand her ground.

"You would not get investments into your programs and reach your goals to protect people's jobs unless you could fight," she said.

Audience members asked Davis and Neumann how they approach faith and religion, noting that Republicans are often “very good at painting Democrats as faithless, godless and scary people.”

Neumann said she was raised Catholic but attended public school as a child, adding faith doesn’t always require going to a specific place of worship.

"[Republicans] have done a really good job of managing language, like when they say they're pro-life, but they're really pro-birth because if they were pro-life, they would take care of the mother and the child," Neumann said. "They wouldn't cut Medicaid that closes rural hospitals."

Davis said she attended church three times a week growing up and believes having a moral compass is essential. She described herself as a Christian, but not a Christian nationalist.

"I saw that shift in my own church, in a rural community. I heard a sermon one day that I considered hate speech, and I got up and walked out," Davis said. "I believe to my very core that God is love, and the No. 1 thing we need to do is love our neighbors."

Chris Mann said he’s running to restore integrity, public service and strong leadership to the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.

Mann said the Democratic Attorneys General Association identified the Kansas race as the nation’s top pickup opportunity following his close loss in 2022.

"I've been a police officer and a prosecutor. I fought for Kansas on the streets and in the courtroom," he said. "Kris Kobach has never worn a badge to protect Kansans."

An attendee asked how this campaign differs from his last. Mann said he previously lacked the resources to reach every community but is now traveling to every corner of the state.

"We're going to have these face-to-face conversations, making sure everyone knows who I am, what I stand for. I think we've got a great chance," he said.

Former representative Jennifer Day said polling access, mail voting and voter education should be expanded to modernize elections and boost voter turnout.

An attendee voiced concern about the shrinking number of polling places and limited voting access in rural areas, asking how Day plans to address the issue.

Day said the main challenges are funding and the limited availability of election workers on Election Day. She encouraged voters to take advantage of early voting options.

"We need to empower our county clerks and make sure that they've got that funding to be able to do the right thing by the voters," she said.

Sam Lane, who is also running for secretary of state, attended the event but did not address the crowd. He spoke individually with attendees after the main speaking portion.

Colin McRoberts, a professor at the University of Kansas, said he’s running not as a politician, but as a businessman and negotiator.

McRoberts said President Donald Trump is engaging in executive overreach, citing what he described as illegal actions, including tariffs, federalized troop deployments, ICE arrests of U.S. citizens, arrests over speech and firing federal employees during a shutdown.

"The first district is red in a red state. This is not going to be an easy race, it's not going to be a cheap race, it's not going to be a short race, but it's possible to win in a way it hasn't been before," McRoberts said.

Lauren Reinhold, who has practiced law for 28 years and is a former federal union officer who worked in human resources advocating for employees, said she has not officially announced her candidacy yet but plans to file in the coming weeks.

Reinhold said she decided to run after witnessing firsthand how Trump, Congress and the Department of Government Efficiency have, in her view, undermined the federal government.

"They have gone in there and slashed programs that Kansans are dependent on and weakened our institutions like Social Security," she said. "We're not going to see the full impact for months, maybe even years, but the cracks are there."

Mark Schaukowitch, a former teacher, announced his campaign for House District 110, saying he is dissatisfied with the current legislative representation under Ken Rahjes.

"I'm running for this seat because, uniquely in this area, there is no one who wants to get the work done," he said. "We have an opportunity here that I never thought that we would have, and that's to build power."

Schaukowitch acknowledged that winning could be difficult in a Republican-leaning district. His priorities include creating a rural permanent fund using oil revenues to stabilize county services and advancing Medicaid expansion to support hospitals, nursing homes and rural workforce retention.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760914535730.jpeg" alt="Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass at Democracy Fest in Hays with candidates for governor, U.S. Senate, attorney general, secretary of state, the 1st Congressional District and Kansas House District 110. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass at Democracy Fest in Hays with candidates for governor, U.S. Senate, attorney general, secretary of state, the 1st Congressional District and Kansas House District 110. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostKansas Democrats campaigning across the state made their last stop in Hays Saturday for Democracy Fest.The event included candidates for U.S. Senate, Kansas Governor and Secretary of State. Kansas Democratic Party Chairwoman Jeanna Repass said Democrats are in a “dog fight” to keep their momentum going."In our state's history, we've never followed two back-to-back [governor] Democrats with another Democrat," Repass said.&nbsp;Candidates also visited Colby and Dodge City to speak with Kansans and attended the “No Kings” rally in Hays after Democracy Fest.<h2>Gubernatorial candidates</h2>Sen. Cindy Holscher spoke about her rural background and what drove her to address school underfunding during former Gov. Sam Brownback’s administration.Holscher said she has been one of the most successful Democrats at getting legislation passed."I've led initiatives to make lives more affordable for Kansans, including restoration of childhood tax credits, eliminating sales tax on food, eliminating taxes on Social Security, and I fought for single moms to make sure they get the child care payments they're owed," she said.Sen. Ethan Corson tied his campaign to his western Kansas roots, vowing to make the state a place where future generations can thrive.Corson said he will support rural health care, technical education and fair redistricting, noting he has previously challenged Ty Masterson over gerrymandered maps."We need to make Kansas more affordable. We need to bring in more jobs and businesses to keep young people in our state so they can have the careers that they want," he said. "We need to support our public schools, which are the backbone of our rural communities."<h2>U.S. Senate candidates&nbsp;</h2>Christy Cauble Davis highlighted her work across rural Kansas, including projects in downtown Hays, and said Kansans deserve representatives who show up and listen to their constituents."Kansas is different than any other state in the nation. We have a unique culture and history that changes the way we need to address things," she said.Sandy Spidel Neumann, who recently announced her campaign, drew on her 40-year career in financial services, saying it taught her both fiscal responsibility and how to stand her ground."You would not get investments into your programs and reach your goals to protect people's jobs unless you could fight," she said.Audience members asked Davis and Neumann how they approach faith and religion, noting that Republicans are often “very good at painting Democrats as faithless, godless and scary people.”Neumann said she was raised Catholic but attended public school as a child, adding faith doesn’t always require going to a specific place of worship."[Republicans] have done a really good job of managing language, like when they say they're pro-life, but they're really pro-birth because if they were pro-life, they would take care of the mother and the child," Neumann said. "They wouldn't cut Medicaid that closes rural hospitals."Davis said she attended church three times a week growing up and believes having a moral compass is essential. She described herself as a Christian, but not a Christian nationalist."I saw that shift in my own church, in a rural community. I heard a sermon one day that I considered hate speech, and I got up and walked out," Davis said. "I believe to my very core that God is love, and the No. 1 thing we need to do is love our neighbors."<h2>Attorney general candidates</h2>Chris Mann said he’s running to restore integrity, public service and strong leadership to the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.Mann said the Democratic Attorneys General Association identified the Kansas race as the nation’s top pickup opportunity following his close loss in 2022."I've been a police officer and a prosecutor. I fought for Kansas on the streets and in the courtroom," he said. "Kris Kobach has never worn a badge to protect Kansans."An attendee asked how this campaign differs from his last. Mann said he previously lacked the resources to reach every community but is now traveling to every corner of the state."We're going to have these face-to-face conversations, making sure everyone knows who I am, what I stand for. I think we've got a great chance," he said.<h2>Secretary of State candidates</h2>Former representative Jennifer Day said polling access, mail voting and voter education should be expanded to modernize elections and boost voter turnout.An attendee voiced concern about the shrinking number of polling places and limited voting access in rural areas, asking how Day plans to address the issue.Day said the main challenges are funding and the limited availability of election workers on Election Day. She encouraged voters to take advantage of early voting options."We need to empower our county clerks and make sure that they've got that funding to be able to do the right thing by the voters," she said.Sam Lane, who is also running for secretary of state, attended the event but did not address the crowd. He spoke individually with attendees after the main speaking portion.<h2>First congressional district candidates</h2>Colin McRoberts, a professor at the University of Kansas, said he’s running not as a politician, but as a businessman and negotiator.McRoberts said President Donald Trump is engaging in executive overreach, citing what he described as illegal actions, including tariffs, federalized troop deployments, ICE arrests of U.S. citizens, arrests over speech and firing federal employees during a shutdown."The first district is red in a red state. This is not going to be an easy race, it's not going to be a cheap race, it's not going to be a short race, but it's possible to win in a way it hasn't been before," McRoberts said.Lauren Reinhold, who has practiced law for 28 years and is a former federal union officer who worked in human resources advocating for employees, said she has not officially announced her candidacy yet but plans to file in the coming weeks.Reinhold said she decided to run after witnessing firsthand how Trump, Congress and the Department of Government Efficiency have, in her view, undermined the federal government."They have gone in there and slashed programs that Kansans are dependent on and weakened our institutions like Social Security," she said. "We're not going to see the full impact for months, maybe even years, but the cracks are there."<h2>Kansas House 110 candidate</h2>Mark Schaukowitch, a former teacher, announced his campaign for House District 110, saying he is dissatisfied with the current legislative representation under Ken Rahjes."I'm running for this seat because, uniquely in this area, there is no one who wants to get the work done," he said. "We have an opportunity here that I never thought that we would have, and that's to build power."Schaukowitch acknowledged that winning could be difficult in a Republican-leaning district. His priorities include creating a rural permanent fund using oil revenues to stabilize county services and advancing Medicaid expansion to support hospitals, nursing homes and rural workforce retention.

Kansas Democrats wrap up Democracy Fest in Hays 

The six candidates for Hays City Commission were interviewed by the Hays Post. Their responses are being presented in a question-and-answer format. The other candidates running include: Samuel Allen, Candace Hathaway, Sandy Jacobs, David Koshiol, Shaun Musil and David Vilaysing. 

Allen did not respond to Hays Post's request for an interview. Allen was <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e91cd79-cb0f-4efc-a6f1-2dc8ddbbe8d9">arrested on a charge of alleged blackmail</a> in July.&nbsp;

Also listed on the ballot but not pursuing office are Kelly Ancar and Justin Choitz.&nbsp;

Age: 61 Occupation: Executive director of Sternberg Museum of Natural History

I'm running again because there were some amazing projects that I want to see continue and get accomplished. 

The R9 Ranch long-term water project is a huge priority for me. Coming from a science background, I think I can provide a different perspective. We're so close, and I want to see that project through.&nbsp;

Housing has also become a really big issue for the community to grow. I see it progressing in the right direction, but there's still a lot of work to do.&nbsp;

I also want to be progressive on the quality of life issues and help support and champion them.&nbsp;

Keeping our sales tax revenue coming in is important. We survive on sales tax. Hays has a big pull factor. So lots of people coming in to shop in Hays is very important for the city and our economy. We have lots of great restaurants and motels, but we need to create other things that will bring tourism to the city (and ultimately) they'll see this is a great place to live.&nbsp; &nbsp;

As an incumbent, what do you think is the most impactful legislation enacted by the governing body since you were elected?

Getting started with getting new housing developments and being really creative with Grow Hays and the ways we use RHIDs (Revitalization Housing Incentive Districts). There's probably 180 houses at this point that will be ready to be built in the next two to four years.

It's been suggested by a local developer that the city provide free land for construction of new homes costing $150,00 or less. What are your thoughts about housing in Hays?

One of our next issues we need to look into is how we can create low-income housing, however you want to define it. The state has taken away some of the incentives for low-income housing, which makes it a little more difficult. 

I don't know that providing free land is necessarily the answer, but there are a lot of things we're going to take a deep dive into to figure out how we can create housing for a wide spectrum of income levels in the community.

The city narrowly avoided a 2-mill levy increase in the 2026 budget. How would you keep the mill levy at 25 mills? Should it instead be increased?

I think the commission needs to try to keep the mill levy as low or stable as possible.

A lot of what we have in the mill levy are employee benefits, the library, public safety equipment. A lot of times these things can be handled by a change in the valuation without raising the mill levy.&nbsp;

If it reaches the point where there are needs that require an increase, we need to look at the value to the community relative to the cost.

Each of the city's department heads works really hard to figure out what would be the most cost-effective way to run their department. The city looks ahead to determine what needs will we have three to 10 years in the future to make a plan.&nbsp; 

The fact that we pay for things in cash and plan ahead years in advance, I feel like, makes us pretty streamlined in how we project/spend our money.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Neighborhoods change over time, so I don't feel every park has to duplicate itself exactly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

You want some things in each park that different age groups can use, but they don't have to be duplicated. You can have parks that have some amount of specialization to create a different environment so that you have diversity, but still keep a couple of swings in every park. I think that could help keep down maintenance costs over the long run.

If it gets completely defunded in the future, I think it will be important for the city and Ellis County to step in and collaborate on how accessible transportation can be maintained, perhaps more efficiently in both transporting and funding.

We need to look at it just like parks or housing in finding the creative things we can do. If the funding is going away, this should be a high priority.

I've served two two-year terms. I was very pleased when I got on the city commission that other commissioners are very proactive and want to make Hays the best community in all of Kansas to live in.&nbsp;

The city employees are great to work with. 

I've been really excited with the way we've been able to move forward with the quality of life, safety, and infrastructure of the city, setting us up for growth.&nbsp;

I can see the problems we need to face in the future, and I'm excited to tackle them. Those issues can be a part of the solutions.

The six candidates for Hays City Commission were interviewed by the Hays Post. Their responses are being presented in a question-and-answer format. The other candidates running include: Samuel Allen, Candace Hathaway, Sandy Jacobs, David Koshiol, Shaun Musil and David Vilaysing. Allen did not respond to Hays Post's request for an interview. Allen was <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e91cd79-cb0f-4efc-a6f1-2dc8ddbbe8d9">arrested on a charge of alleged blackmail</a> in July.&nbsp;Also listed on the ballot but not pursuing office are Kelly Ancar and Justin Choitz.&nbsp;Three seats are available on the board. The two candidates with the highest number of votes will each receive a four-year term. The third-highest candidate will serve a two-year term. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760627617358.png" alt="Reese Barrick. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Reese Barrick. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Age: 61 Occupation: Executive director of Sternberg Museum of Natural HistoryWhy are you running for Hays City Commission?I'm running again because there were some amazing projects that I want to see continue and get accomplished. The R9 Ranch long-term water project is a huge priority for me. Coming from a science background, I think I can provide a different perspective. We're so close, and I want to see that project through.&nbsp;Housing has also become a really big issue for the community to grow. I see it progressing in the right direction, but there's still a lot of work to do.&nbsp;I also want to be progressive on the quality of life issues and help support and champion them.&nbsp;What is the most pressing issue(s) the city of Hays faces?Keeping our sales tax revenue coming in is important. We survive on sales tax. Hays has a big pull factor. So lots of people coming in to shop in Hays is very important for the city and our economy. We have lots of great restaurants and motels, but we need to create other things that will bring tourism to the city (and ultimately) they'll see this is a great place to live.&nbsp; &nbsp;As an incumbent, what do you think is the most impactful legislation enacted by the governing body since you were elected?Getting started with getting new housing developments and being really creative with Grow Hays and the ways we use RHIDs (Revitalization Housing Incentive Districts). There's probably 180 houses at this point that will be ready to be built in the next two to four years.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ae1db76a-b42e-4a7e-8a6d-64505465e8a1">A recent quarterly luncheon by Grow Hays explained how RHIDs work and their economic impact on the city.&nbsp;</a>It's been suggested by a local developer that the city provide free land for construction of new homes costing $150,00 or less. What are your thoughts about housing in Hays?One of our next issues we need to look into is how we can create low-income housing, however you want to define it. The state has taken away some of the incentives for low-income housing, which makes it a little more difficult. I don't know that providing free land is necessarily the answer, but there are a lot of things we're going to take a deep dive into to figure out how we can create housing for a wide spectrum of income levels in the community.The city narrowly avoided a 2-mill levy increase in the 2026 budget. How would you keep the mill levy at 25 mills? Should it instead be increased?I think the commission needs to try to keep the mill levy as low or stable as possible.A lot of what we have in the mill levy are employee benefits, the library, public safety equipment. A lot of times these things can be handled by a change in the valuation without raising the mill levy.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7d615ae1-9b48-4ebd-9200-7c593c85db69">The governing body of Hays chose to remain revenue neutral for the budget year 2026.</a>If it reaches the point where there are needs that require an increase, we need to look at the value to the community relative to the cost.Are there areas in the city budget or departments that can be streamlined? What would you change in the city's current operations?Each of the city's department heads works really hard to figure out what would be the most cost-effective way to run their department. The city looks ahead to determine what needs will we have three to 10 years in the future to make a plan.&nbsp; The fact that we pay for things in cash and plan ahead years in advance, I feel like, makes us pretty streamlined in how we project/spend our money.&nbsp;&nbsp;Should each city park become more "individualized," offering different/fewer amenities at each location to save maintenance costs?Neighborhoods change over time, so I don't feel every park has to duplicate itself exactly.&nbsp;&nbsp;You want some things in each park that different age groups can use, but they don't have to be duplicated. You can have parks that have some amount of specialization to create a different environment so that you have diversity, but still keep a couple of swings in every park. I think that could help keep down maintenance costs over the long run.Should the city get involved in the operation of the public transportation program ACCESS, which is struggling with its funding? Should the city offer greater financial support?If it gets completely defunded in the future, I think it will be important for the city and Ellis County to step in and collaborate on how accessible transportation can be maintained, perhaps more efficiently in both transporting and funding.We need to look at it just like parks or housing in finding the creative things we can do. If the funding is going away, this should be a high priority.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dc146924-9a33-439f-bb6a-180129cff07a">ACCESS General Public Transportation in Hays is still facing a 2026 funding gap after the city of Hays and Ellis County made contributions.&nbsp;</a>Anything else you'd like to add?I've served two two-year terms. I was very pleased when I got on the city commission that other commissioners are very proactive and want to make Hays the best community in all of Kansas to live in.&nbsp;The city employees are great to work with. I've been really excited with the way we've been able to move forward with the quality of life, safety, and infrastructure of the city, setting us up for growth.&nbsp;I can see the problems we need to face in the future, and I'm excited to tackle them. Those issues can be a part of the solutions.As told to Becky Kiser/Hays Post

Hays City Commission Candidate Q&A: Reese Barrick

Downtown Hays will once again transform into a festive Halloween wonderland for Trick or Treat on The Bricks, happening Friday, October 31, 2025, from 3–5 PM. Hosted by&nbsp;The Bricks in Downtown, this annual tradition brings families together to enjoy a safe and spirited afternoon in the heart of the community.

Dozens of downtown businesses will line Main Street and beyond, handing out candy and hosting fun activities for costumed trick-or-treaters. The event provides children with a safe, family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween while encouraging the community to explore and support local businesses.

“This is a beloved family event,” said Lee Ann June, executive director of The Bricks. “Downtown businesses look forward to greeting kids in costume, and parents appreciate the safe environment we create together.”

To keep the event safe and enjoyable for all, volunteer crossing guards will be stationed throughout downtown Hays, helping families cross busy intersections as they make their way along the route.

Families are encouraged to wear their best costumes and bring a treat bag to collect candy and goodies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760108507901.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Bricks in Downtown HaysDowntown Hays will once again transform into a festive Halloween wonderland for Trick or Treat on The Bricks, happening Friday, October 31, 2025, from 3–5 PM. Hosted by&nbsp;The Bricks in Downtown, this annual tradition brings families together to enjoy a safe and spirited afternoon in the heart of the community.Dozens of downtown businesses will line Main Street and beyond, handing out candy and hosting fun activities for costumed trick-or-treaters. The event provides children with a safe, family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween while encouraging the community to explore and support local businesses.“This is a beloved family event,” said Lee Ann June, executive director of The Bricks. “Downtown businesses look forward to greeting kids in costume, and parents appreciate the safe environment we create together.”To keep the event safe and enjoyable for all, volunteer crossing guards will be stationed throughout downtown Hays, helping families cross busy intersections as they make their way along the route.Families are encouraged to wear their best costumes and bring a treat bag to collect candy and goodies.

Trick or Treat on the Bricks in Downtown Hays on Halloween

Grow Hays, Inc. is accepting candidate applications for board of director positions that will open in 2026. There will be three open positions the board will be looking to fill. 

Prospective candidates must be willing to serve a four-year term. The Grow Hays Board meets a minimum of once a month, on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 3:30pm. Board members are occasionally asked to serve on additional committees, which meet as required.

Grow Hays Inc. is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of Ellis County. Long known for its efforts to promote a robust economy through business creation, retention, expansion, and recruitment, Grow Hays continues to develop and maintain strong relationships with local, state, and federal organizations in an effort to bring resources and support to businesses located in the community.

If you have any questions regarding the expectations if they are elected to the board, or the nature of the work required of Grow Hays Board members, please call Grow Hays at 785-628-3102. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579031366928.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysGrow Hays, Inc. is accepting candidate applications for board of director positions that will open in 2026. There will be three open positions the board will be looking to fill. Prospective candidates must be willing to serve a four-year term. The Grow Hays Board meets a minimum of once a month, on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 3:30pm. Board members are occasionally asked to serve on additional committees, which meet as required.Grow Hays Inc. is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of Ellis County. Long known for its efforts to promote a robust economy through business creation, retention, expansion, and recruitment, Grow Hays continues to develop and maintain strong relationships with local, state, and federal organizations in an effort to bring resources and support to businesses located in the community.If you have any questions regarding the expectations if they are elected to the board, or the nature of the work required of Grow Hays Board members, please call Grow Hays at 785-628-3102. Candidate applications are available at <a href="https://growhays.com/">www.GrowHays.com</a> or at BriefSpace, 219 West 10th. Deadline to apply is November 7th, 2025.

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