SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in Sherman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2006 Lexus driven by&nbsp;Couturier, Jacklyn Diane Corturier, 39,&nbsp;Haltom City, Texas, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Edson exit. 

The vehicle traveled into the median and continued eastbound for one half mile. The vehicle returned to the roadway and the driver overcorrected. This caused the vehicle to spin into the south ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Couturier to the hospital in Goodland. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in Sherman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2006 Lexus driven by&nbsp;Couturier, Jacklyn Diane Corturier, 39,&nbsp;Haltom City, Texas, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Edson exit. The vehicle traveled into the median and continued eastbound for one half mile. The vehicle returned to the roadway and the driver overcorrected. This caused the vehicle to spin into the south ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Couturier to the hospital in Goodland. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Woman hospitalized after vehicle spins into I-70 ditch

By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Housing Opportunities Inc. publicly announced last October a new
housing development that was going to create a four-phase project directly east
of The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus and south of
Walmart.

HOI announced receiving nearly $6 million from the Kansas
 Housing Resources Corporation for the project, referred to as Cambridge
 Park. 
Phase one of the development includes a 28-unit, low-income project that would
give Sunflower Diversified Services first rights to rent the apartments for
their clients. Sunflower helps children and adults with developmental disabilities. 
HOI purchased 24 acres of land from a group of local doctors that currently
sits out of city limits. Receiving funds and tax credits from the Kansas
Housing Resources Corporation, HOI recognized the tax rebate program is more
beneficial to stay within the county and not be annexed into Great Bend city
limits.&nbsp;

HOI Executive Director Callie Miller said HOI is
 not opposed to being annexed into the city limits but would prefer to 
stay in the township.

At a Great Bend City Council work session 
Monday night, there was question from the city council on developing 
housing from HOI, which receives discounted tax rates, meaning the city 
or county would not receive the full amount of property taxes.

Currently,
 the property is zoned for agriculture and brings in approximately 
$2,500 from property taxes each year. Once developed, the first phase of
 the project would generate more than $14,000 in property taxes if the 
lot is annexed into the city. A large pond used for drainage, roughly 
eight acres, would also collect taxes.

Miller discussed possibly tapping into the city’s utilities. One pushback
Miller received was a housing study for Great Bend showed more low-income
housing was not needed, but moderate-income housing was. "The 
moderate-income roles are a lot different," said Miller. "We can apply 
for and administer the low-income awards all on our own. Moderate income
 is required to go through a city or a county and you're capped at 
$600,000. It's not enough for an entire project. We may get two 
buildings out of that. We'd have to secure some other financing to make 
it work."

Miller noted potentially turning the second and third phases of development on the property into moderate-income housing. 
Another issue, is the lift station nearby the property pumping sewage
that the Cambridge Park development would need to connect to.
With a good portion of the west side of Great Bend connected to this lift station,
city officials were not certain the station could withstand the new
development. Great Bend agreed to spend $8,000 for a controller to be placed on
the pump to perform a study on its usage. 
Sunflower Interim Executive Director Shelby Zuniga said by Sunflower clients
moving into the low-income complex, the move would free up 15 rental houses in
town, including two large group homes on Eisenhower Avenue. 
"In the group home setting, the homes we own right now are two-story," 
said Zuniga. "A lot of the individuals are wheelchair bound. Having new 
facilities on one level is a huge benefit. The other homes in the 
community, some of the clients are living in very substandard 
conditions."

If Sunflower clients do not fill all the occupancies, other low-income qualifying community members could rent the units. The parties left the work session Monday night waiting to find out results from
the sanitary sewer study for the lift station.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Listen below to the full discussion from the Great Bend City Council work session on HOI Cambridge Park on July 18.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658350787153.jpeg" alt="Twenty-four acres, east of The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, is planned to turn into low-income housing developed by Housing Opportunities Inc." />
 <figcaption>Twenty-four acres, east of The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, is planned to turn into low-income housing developed by Housing Opportunities Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — Housing Opportunities Inc. publicly announced last October a new
housing development that was going to create a four-phase project directly east
of The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus and south of
Walmart.HOI announced receiving nearly $6 million from the Kansas
 Housing Resources Corporation for the project, referred to as Cambridge
 Park. 
Phase one of the development includes a 28-unit, low-income project that would
give Sunflower Diversified Services first rights to rent the apartments for
their clients. Sunflower helps children and adults with developmental disabilities. 
HOI purchased 24 acres of land from a group of local doctors that currently
sits out of city limits. Receiving funds and tax credits from the Kansas
Housing Resources Corporation, HOI recognized the tax rebate program is more
beneficial to stay within the county and not be annexed into Great Bend city
limits.&nbsp;HOI Executive Director Callie Miller said HOI is
 not opposed to being annexed into the city limits but would prefer to 
stay in the township.At a Great Bend City Council work session 
Monday night, there was question from the city council on developing 
housing from HOI, which receives discounted tax rates, meaning the city 
or county would not receive the full amount of property taxes.Currently,
 the property is zoned for agriculture and brings in approximately 
$2,500 from property taxes each year. Once developed, the first phase of
 the project would generate more than $14,000 in property taxes if the 
lot is annexed into the city. A large pond used for drainage, roughly 
eight acres, would also collect taxes.Miller discussed possibly tapping into the city’s utilities. One pushback
Miller received was a housing study for Great Bend showed more low-income
housing was not needed, but moderate-income housing was. "The 
moderate-income roles are a lot different," said Miller. "We can apply 
for and administer the low-income awards all on our own. Moderate income
 is required to go through a city or a county and you're capped at 
$600,000. It's not enough for an entire project. We may get two 
buildings out of that. We'd have to secure some other financing to make 
it work."Miller noted potentially turning the second and third phases of development on the property into moderate-income housing. 
Another issue, is the lift station nearby the property pumping sewage
that the Cambridge Park development would need to connect to.
With a good portion of the west side of Great Bend connected to this lift station,
city officials were not certain the station could withstand the new
development. Great Bend agreed to spend $8,000 for a controller to be placed on
the pump to perform a study on its usage. 
Sunflower Interim Executive Director Shelby Zuniga said by Sunflower clients
moving into the low-income complex, the move would free up 15 rental houses in
town, including two large group homes on Eisenhower Avenue. 
"In the group home setting, the homes we own right now are two-story," 
said Zuniga. "A lot of the individuals are wheelchair bound. Having new 
facilities on one level is a huge benefit. The other homes in the 
community, some of the clients are living in very substandard 
conditions."If Sunflower clients do not fill all the occupancies, other low-income qualifying community members could rent the units. The parties left the work session Monday night waiting to find out results from
the sanitary sewer study for the lift station.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Listen below to the full discussion from the Great Bend City Council work session on HOI Cambridge Park on July 18.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/vqllh0n4/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

🎧Questions arise for low-income housing project in Great Bend

SALINA — As the volunteer sponsor of the 2022 Senior LPGA Championship at the 
Salina Country Club later this week, the Kansas Department of Commerce 
has assembled "The Governor's Team" to play in the Pro-Am Tournament 
Thursday.

The 2022 Senior LPGA Championship is scheduled for 
Thursday through Sunday at the Salina Country Club. Annika Sörenstam is 
scheduled to headline the 78-player field for the 2022 Senior LPGA 
Championship.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3718fe68-fdd8-41a1-b51a-4589b6df3a08">Annika Sörenstam to headline 2022 LPGA Championship in Salina</a>

Likewise, Governor Laura Kelly's team for the Pro-Am event Thursday 
has some of the state's best collegiate golfers: Aliyah North (Fort Hays
 State University), Gianna Augustine (Kansas State University), Hannah 
Hawks (University of Kansas), and Megan Lucas (Wichita State 
University). A senior pro will be named after the pairing party on 
Wednesday evening.

Adam Roorbach, Kansas Department of Commerce's 
Kansas Sports Tourism, said, “The State of Kansas is proud to sponsor 
this event. Bringing the Senior LPGA Championship event will have a 
significant impact on the Kansas economy. The Salina Country Club will 
provide a wonderful experience to participants and spectators from 
throughout the world. Ultimately, Kansas is a wonderful place to visit, 
work, live and play, and the Senior LPGA Championship will showcase just
 that!"

The Pro-Am is scheduled to begin with a shotgun start at 
noon on Thursday with 17 teams competing. Each team will consist of four
 amateur players and one senior pro. Several local businesses have 
sponsored teams and viewing of the event is open to the public.

If you’d like to learn more about the 2022 Senior LPGA Championship, go to <a href="http://www.SalinaCountryClub.com">www.SalinaCountryClub.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658347723244.jpeg" alt="The Salina Country Club will be a hub of international activity the next few days during the&nbsp;2022 Senior LPGA Championship. Photo courtesy Salina Country Club Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Country Club will be a hub of international activity the next few days during the&nbsp;2022 Senior LPGA Championship. Photo courtesy Salina Country Club Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostSALINA — As the volunteer sponsor of the 2022 Senior LPGA Championship at the 
Salina Country Club later this week, the Kansas Department of Commerce 
has assembled "The Governor's Team" to play in the Pro-Am Tournament 
Thursday.The 2022 Senior LPGA Championship is scheduled for 
Thursday through Sunday at the Salina Country Club. Annika Sörenstam is 
scheduled to headline the 78-player field for the 2022 Senior LPGA 
Championship.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3718fe68-fdd8-41a1-b51a-4589b6df3a08">Annika Sörenstam to headline 2022 LPGA Championship in Salina</a>Likewise, Governor Laura Kelly's team for the Pro-Am event Thursday 
has some of the state's best collegiate golfers: Aliyah North (Fort Hays
 State University), Gianna Augustine (Kansas State University), Hannah 
Hawks (University of Kansas), and Megan Lucas (Wichita State 
University). A senior pro will be named after the pairing party on 
Wednesday evening.Adam Roorbach, Kansas Department of Commerce's 
Kansas Sports Tourism, said, “The State of Kansas is proud to sponsor 
this event. Bringing the Senior LPGA Championship event will have a 
significant impact on the Kansas economy. The Salina Country Club will 
provide a wonderful experience to participants and spectators from 
throughout the world. Ultimately, Kansas is a wonderful place to visit, 
work, live and play, and the Senior LPGA Championship will showcase just
 that!"The Pro-Am is scheduled to begin with a shotgun start at 
noon on Thursday with 17 teams competing. Each team will consist of four
 amateur players and one senior pro. Several local businesses have 
sponsored teams and viewing of the event is open to the public.If you’d like to learn more about the 2022 Senior LPGA Championship, go to <a href="http://www.SalinaCountryClub.com">www.SalinaCountryClub.com</a>.

FHSU golfer will join governor's team at LPGA Pro-Am event

It was a scorcher Tuesday in Hays, but not a record-setter.

The K-State Ag Research Center recorded a high temperature Tuesday of 109 degrees — just shy of the 110 degrees measured on July 19, 1939, which was also recorded in 2011.

After a "cooler" day with the mercury only expected to hit 98 on Wednesday, expect triple-digit heat to return through Saturday, the National Weather Service reported.

A high of 103 is projected Thursday, with a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms Thursday night. Friday's high is predicted at 103, with a 104-degree day expected Saturday.&nbsp;There is a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms Saturday, as well.

Another "cool" day could be on the way Sunday, when the high is expected to hit 98.&nbsp;

There is a better chance for moisture Sunday night, with a 40 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms.

It was a scorcher Tuesday in Hays, but not a record-setter.The K-State Ag Research Center recorded a high temperature Tuesday of 109 degrees — just shy of the 110 degrees measured on July 19, 1939, which was also recorded in 2011.After a "cooler" day with the mercury only expected to hit 98 on Wednesday, expect triple-digit heat to return through Saturday, the National Weather Service reported.A high of 103 is projected Thursday, with a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms Thursday night. Friday's high is predicted at 103, with a 104-degree day expected Saturday.&nbsp;There is a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms Saturday, as well.Another "cool" day could be on the way Sunday, when the high is expected to hit 98.&nbsp;There is a better chance for moisture Sunday night, with a 40 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms.

Tuesday a degree off 83-year-old high temp record in Hays

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 28 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from July&nbsp; 9 to 15.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Several northwest Kansas counties (see map below) were included among those with high incidence of coronavirus. Ellis County was moved from the high-incidence to substantial-incident classification.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 7,397 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE has also discontinued county-by-county death totals.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658339153635.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 28 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from July&nbsp; 9 to 15.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Several northwest Kansas counties (see map below) were included among those with high incidence of coronavirus. Ellis County was moved from the high-incidence to substantial-incident classification.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 7,397 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE has also discontinued county-by-county death totals.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658339129053.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 28 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. in past week

Chris McGowne, Joe Leroux, Nathan Leiker and Randy Marintzer
are all on the Republican ballot for the Third District seat on the Ellis County Commission. The primary will be Tuesday, Aug. 2.&nbsp;The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.

After the passage of two quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county short term financial situation has improved but the taxes are
scheduled to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the county improve its
financial footing in the long term, and do you believe the sales tax should be
extended?

At this point, the two .25 sales tax is proving to assist
greatly with the necessary infrastructure repair and maintenance finances. At
this point, I could see that as a viable alternative to raising property taxes
or other forms of taxation.&nbsp; Spreading
that out over any purchases in the county is a more attractive alternative than
other options. It’s worthy of considering for continuation.

Past commissions have earmarked a portion of the sales tax
for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a commissioner would you
continue to support that effort? Why or why not?

&nbsp;Yes, I absolutely support the infrastructure upkeep and
improvements.&nbsp; The current county sales
tax is assisting that.&nbsp;&nbsp; Getting and
keeping maintenance and necessary improvements is of utmost important.

What do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters
over the next few years and what would you do to ease that concern?

I gather the top concerns of the voters to be property
taxes and oversight or accountability on how the taxes are spent as the biggest
concern for many.

Should the Ellis County Commission be more or less proactive
in economic development in the county and, if so, what is the best way to attract
business to the area?

I do think the
county should be proactive in economic development by assuring new business and
current ones that they and their customers will have good access to their
businesses.&nbsp; One of the pit falls is the
lack of good sources for water.&nbsp; We need
to be very active in developing that.&nbsp; 

The commission has worked with the cities within Ellis
County on various projects. Do you see any other opportunities for continued
cooperation? Are there areas where the entities need to expand cooperation?

The fact that the County does share equipment and
services among all the smaller towns, Victoria, Ellis, Schoenchen, as needed,
is very cost effective and economically sound. Bundling the purchases and
inputs is sensible!

In your view, what is the primary difference between how you
would serve as a county commissioner and the other candidates?

My view is pretty simple.&nbsp;
Myself and one other candidate are the only ones running that own homes,
property, and businesses in Ellis County, essentially , genuinely having ‘skin
in the game’.&nbsp; We pay a lot of taxes from
several avenues in Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp; As
such, we aren’t moving or advancing in jobs or elections anywhere else.&nbsp; We are here for the long haul.&nbsp; Not only is our past here, so is our future!

In what ways does your personal and professional experience
qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?

I have lived in and done business in Ellis County for
over 50 years and have enjoyed the benefits this county has afforded us. I
believe it’s my time to step up and give back in this way.&nbsp; 

As a farmer for over 40 years, I know and have experience
for budgeting for upcoming years based on , basically , only 2 paychecks a year
and&nbsp; having to plan at least 2 years in
advance for inputs and expenses.&nbsp; Seems
similar in task as this position.

What decision made by the county commission in the last few
years did you disagree with and what would have been your decision?

I am not aware of
any specific decision by the current commissioners that I had an opinion about.

A group of area real estate agents have called for the commission to
expand from three members to five. Do you believe the commission would benefit
from expansion?

First of all, why
is there being a consideration like this from a specific property entity or
business?&nbsp; That throws a red flag for
me!&nbsp; 

I don’t believe the commission would benefit at all from
expanding from 3 to 5 commissioners.&nbsp; In
visiting with several different previous commissioners and authorities in the
operation of the county, there have been only 2 times in the last 40 years ,
that there was an issue with not reaching a majority on an issue.&nbsp; That’s a phenomenal accomplishment!&nbsp; The system isn’t broken, it doesn’t need
‘fixed’!!

Also, the enormous expense it would take to not only
redistrict Ellis County, but the added expense of more commissioners to do what
can be done very well, as it is now.

Opponents of the effort claim that it will make the
commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What would you do to ensure transparency?

Current laws are in place to keep private, illegal,
meetings from taking place between commissioners on County business, since 2
out of 3 would set up a majority.&nbsp;&nbsp; With
3, there can be no private meetings, legally.&nbsp;
That’s more easily watched with 3 commissioners.&nbsp; The opportunity to have a non majority, 2 at
a time having private meetings, then interconnecting (manipulation) (daisy
chaining) with each other or special interest groups would be much more likely
to occur without detection! 

When commission is only allowed, legally, to meet as the
group of 3, in public setting, whatever is discussed is wide open with each
other and with Ellis County citizens free to attend all public meetings on
this, obviously, transparency would be MUCH more likely! 

Editor's note:&nbsp;Hays Post compiled a list of relevant questions for all candidates, who received and responded to that same list.

Hays PostChris McGowne, Joe Leroux, Nathan Leiker and Randy Marintzer
are all on the Republican ballot for the Third District seat on the Ellis County Commission. The primary will be Tuesday, Aug. 2.&nbsp;The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.After the passage of two quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county short term financial situation has improved but the taxes are
scheduled to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the county improve its
financial footing in the long term, and do you believe the sales tax should be
extended?At this point, the two .25 sales tax is proving to assist
greatly with the necessary infrastructure repair and maintenance finances. At
this point, I could see that as a viable alternative to raising property taxes
or other forms of taxation.&nbsp; Spreading
that out over any purchases in the county is a more attractive alternative than
other options. It’s worthy of considering for continuation.Past commissions have earmarked a portion of the sales tax
for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a commissioner would you
continue to support that effort? Why or why not?&nbsp;Yes, I absolutely support the infrastructure upkeep and
improvements.&nbsp; The current county sales
tax is assisting that.&nbsp;&nbsp; Getting and
keeping maintenance and necessary improvements is of utmost important.What do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters
over the next few years and what would you do to ease that concern?I gather the top concerns of the voters to be property
taxes and oversight or accountability on how the taxes are spent as the biggest
concern for many.Should the Ellis County Commission be more or less proactive
in economic development in the county and, if so, what is the best way to attract
business to the area?I do think the
county should be proactive in economic development by assuring new business and
current ones that they and their customers will have good access to their
businesses.&nbsp; One of the pit falls is the
lack of good sources for water.&nbsp; We need
to be very active in developing that.&nbsp; The commission has worked with the cities within Ellis
County on various projects. Do you see any other opportunities for continued
cooperation? Are there areas where the entities need to expand cooperation?The fact that the County does share equipment and
services among all the smaller towns, Victoria, Ellis, Schoenchen, as needed,
is very cost effective and economically sound. Bundling the purchases and
inputs is sensible!In your view, what is the primary difference between how you
would serve as a county commissioner and the other candidates?My view is pretty simple.&nbsp;
Myself and one other candidate are the only ones running that own homes,
property, and businesses in Ellis County, essentially , genuinely having ‘skin
in the game’.&nbsp; We pay a lot of taxes from
several avenues in Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp; As
such, we aren’t moving or advancing in jobs or elections anywhere else.&nbsp; We are here for the long haul.&nbsp; Not only is our past here, so is our future!In what ways does your personal and professional experience
qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?I have lived in and done business in Ellis County for
over 50 years and have enjoyed the benefits this county has afforded us. I
believe it’s my time to step up and give back in this way.&nbsp; As a farmer for over 40 years, I know and have experience
for budgeting for upcoming years based on , basically , only 2 paychecks a year
and&nbsp; having to plan at least 2 years in
advance for inputs and expenses.&nbsp; Seems
similar in task as this position.What decision made by the county commission in the last few
years did you disagree with and what would have been your decision?I am not aware of
any specific decision by the current commissioners that I had an opinion about.A group of area real estate agents have called for the commission to
expand from three members to five. Do you believe the commission would benefit
from expansion?First of all, why
is there being a consideration like this from a specific property entity or
business?&nbsp; That throws a red flag for
me!&nbsp; I don’t believe the commission would benefit at all from
expanding from 3 to 5 commissioners.&nbsp; In
visiting with several different previous commissioners and authorities in the
operation of the county, there have been only 2 times in the last 40 years ,
that there was an issue with not reaching a majority on an issue.&nbsp; That’s a phenomenal accomplishment!&nbsp; The system isn’t broken, it doesn’t need
‘fixed’!!Also, the enormous expense it would take to not only
redistrict Ellis County, but the added expense of more commissioners to do what
can be done very well, as it is now.Opponents of the effort claim that it will make the
commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What would you do to ensure transparency?Current laws are in place to keep private, illegal,
meetings from taking place between commissioners on County business, since 2
out of 3 would set up a majority.&nbsp;&nbsp; With
3, there can be no private meetings, legally.&nbsp;
That’s more easily watched with 3 commissioners.&nbsp; The opportunity to have a non majority, 2 at
a time having private meetings, then interconnecting (manipulation) (daisy
chaining) with each other or special interest groups would be much more likely
to occur without detection! When commission is only allowed, legally, to meet as the
group of 3, in public setting, whatever is discussed is wide open with each
other and with Ellis County citizens free to attend all public meetings on
this, obviously, transparency would be MUCH more likely! Editor's note:&nbsp;Hays Post compiled a list of relevant questions for all candidates, who received and responded to that same list.

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Commission: Randy Marintzer

After the passage of two
quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county short term financial situation has
improved but the taxes are scheduled to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the
county improve its financial footing in the long term, and do you believe the
sales tax should be extended?

It is too early to decide if they
should be extended beyond their sunset in 2030. This is for several reasons
such as the overall effective tax rate for Ellis County residents, economic
health of the local economy, and the fact that we have a large number of fixed
income residents. For example, oil prices are impossible to project ten years
out, we are unsure of what the agricultural industry will be facing, what other
taxes may be implemented at the state of local level, or what the fiscal health
of the County is. However, I think it would be extremely prudent for the County
to assume those taxes will expire upon their own terms. 

Prior to adoption of the tax in
2020, Ellis County was one of the few Kansas counties that did not have a
countywide sales tax. The County budget is traditionally funded through
property taxes and fees which make up the bulk of the revenue. The sales tax
was adopted in response to economic difficulties facing the county. When it was
proposed, the county estimated that two-thirds of the revenue collected from
the new taxes would come from outside residents. &nbsp;

The crucial aspect for me is that
voters approved those taxes with the expectation of expiration in ten years. That
was the way the taxes were framed, and I believe all too often “nothing is so
permanent as a temporary government program”. I believe the county should be
looking at this ten-year tax as an opportunity to use those funds to shore up
future budgets and services, not as permanent revenue source that will be in
place in perpetuity. Further, the circumstances for many household budgets have
changed since the passage of those sales taxes. We have the highest inflation
in the US since 1981, we have skyrocketing energy costs, a sharp rise in gas
prices, and going to the grocery store often looks like a house payment. I
believe elected officials should be looking to find ways to ease family
financial pressures, not compound those issues. 

Past commissions have earmarked a
portion of the sales tax for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a
commissioner would you continue to support that effort? Why or why not?

I absolutely would like to earmark
a portion of the sales tax for infrastructure. Ellis County maintains over
1,400 miles of county roads and 200 bridges. This infrastructure is approaching
100 years in age and infrastructure maintenance and upkeep was a fundamental
reason the sales taxes were initially approved. Elected officials have a
responsibility to the public at large to live up to their obligations. There is
a current backlog of projects, and county roads are fundamental to important
local industries like agriculture, oil, and gas. Time and time again I have
heard from citizens when I knock on their door that county roads are one of
their top priorities. This is especially true for the voters living in the
rural areas.

What do you see as the top concern
of Ellis County voters over the next few years and what would you do to ease
that concern?

I believe the top concern for Ellis
County voters over the next few years will be the economy. By way of example,
consumer energy costs have risen over twenty seven percent over the last year.
Food costs have risen over eleven percent and are projected to continue to
rise. Supply chain issues have caused shortages for things like baby formula,
and when people can find those products, they are paying significantly more. Heck,
bacon is now between nine and twelve dollars a pound, a double-digit year over
year increase. 

Family budgets are being crushed.
According to every measurable economic marker, costs for the average family
have seen the highest year over year increase in a generation. Another example
is assessed values. Over the last few years, they have consistently increased,
in some instances five or six figures. Combine that with the addition of the
sales tax, the projected increase from the school bond, and the additional
taxes we pay at the state and local level, and we have created a perfect
economic storm for voters right as we head into a devasting recession. All
signs point to an economic slowdown of great proportions, and the county has a
responsibility consider those facts when making its year over year and five-year
budget plans. It is quite simple. Who should bear the brunt of the looming
recession, taxpayers or the government? 

Of course, the second major issue
is housing. There is quite clearly a housing shortage within Ellis County, and
it is causing prices to inflate. The law of supply and demand says we should
find ways get private parties together to build more affordable houses for
Ellis County residents. I do not believe we should subsidize this development; it
should be private parties working on finding solutions that allow for the
market to drive the demand and availability. 

Should the Ellis County Commission
be more or less proactive in economic development in the county and, if so, what
is the best way to attract business to the area?

Yes, I strongly believe the County
should be more proactive in economic development. However, I believe this also
a two-part issue. First, we should work on helping to protect and grow already
established businesses. We have a lot of great opportunities in the oil and gas
industry, agriculture, and health care industries along with service, retail
and more. However, these employers are finding it hard to attract and retain
employees. Even when they are can, supply chain issues, inflation, and other
economic pressures are still making it difficult to expand. Add in the fact
that businesses pay higher property tax rates and bear a large share of other
tax burdens, we need to find ways to help them decrease costs while helping
ensure our unemployment rate remains low. 

With respect to attracting new
businesses, we should focus on few simple things starting with quality of life.
Ellis County is an amazing county with great people and a strong sense of
community. We are by far the best place to live in western Kansas, and we
should focus on building our bedroom community with those businesses that want
to contribute to our way of life. Also, we should be promoting our regulatory
environment and cost of living. Despite our community being rocked by the above
issues, we are still a much better place to put a business than a large metro
area or blue state. And finally, we should be letting people know that there
are certain programs already in place that can work to attract outside
interest. For example, Ellis County falls into a certain category where if
people move into the community, in certain circumstances they are exempt from
income taxes for up to five years. The County should be inventorying the
already in-place programs we can use to bring economic growth to the area
without having to spend additional funds or put in place special subsidies. 

The commission has worked with the
cities within Ellis County on various projects. Do you see any other
opportunities for continued cooperation? Are there areas where the entities
need to expand cooperation?

I believe both statements to be
true. First, I should note that I am a strong supporter of home rule and local
control. Our system of government is designed to let municipalities govern
themselves, with the County being responsible for the unincorporated areas and
merely providing support to the municipalities. With respect to areas of
partnership, I believe issues such as public safety, economic development,
emergency services, and roads and bridges are areas of common ground. 

With respect to expanding
cooperation I would want to ask the municipalities what they need. For example,
I recently read where the City of Victoria is having meetings to find ways to
develop certain projects like a grocery store. I would like to help them
achieve those goals, but only to the extent they would want they help. I would
not want any community to feel like the County is meddling in their affairs,
so&nbsp; I would want to be sure any action
taken was with the consent of those living in that community and their elected leaders
and is done in the manner they dictate. 

In your view, what is the primary
difference between how you would serve as a county commissioner and the other
candidates?

I can only speak for &nbsp;myself but my first focus as a County
Commissioner is on transparency. For example, I have knocked on a lot of doors,
and the information I hand out contains my email (<a href="mailto:chris@mcgowneforkansas.com">chris@mcgowneforkansas.com</a>) and phone number (785-259-9233)
so they can get a hold of me anytime. I cannot guarantee that I will solve
every problem, and I certainly will not guarantee that all the voters will
agree with every decision that I make. However, I want people to know that I
will always hear anyone out, I will listen to new ideas, and I will always have
a good reason for what I do and will be happy to explain myself anytime. &nbsp;

I have heard a lot about people
wanting a new perspective. For example, which includes not having a
preconceived notion on certain issues or having any family or business ties
that would limit my ability to vote on things or be open to new approaches. I
plan to govern Ellis County like I live my life, with a bias toward freedom,
responsibility, and less is more when it comes to government. 

In what ways does your personal and
professional experience qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?

I am a land use lawyer who has
worked in local government and the oil and gas industry combined for over a
decade. I studied land use, local government, energy, and health care in
school, and have worked with planning and zoning, business development, and
local budgets for most of my career. I have no ties, special interests, or
other obligations that prevent me from making informed decisions that benefit
all the citizens. I have experience working with people from all walks of life,
and I was born and raised in this County and my family has been here since the
1960s. I love Ellis County, and I truly believe in its potential. 

I am the most qualified because of
my background, history, and experience. I have testified at hundreds of state
and local meetings, I am an expert in land use regulations and local
government, and I am comfortable talking to anyone. I believe I can bring
people from all different perspectives together, and I am a person that is
focused on finding solutions to problems as opposed to “what ifs”. Finally, I
am pragmatic. I understand the proper role of government, what it should and
more importantly should not do. I understand that everyone does not get their
way all the time, and my job is to do what is best for everyone, not myself. 

What decision made by the county
commission in the last few years did you disagree with and what would have been
your decision?

I think the first example of a
decision I disagreed with would be the Commission not sending the question of
Ellis County expanding the Commission to the voters. This is an important
distinction, as the next question deals with expansion itself. 

I believe if citizens want
something sent to the ballot, which should be their option. My job as a commissioner
is to abide by the wishes of the voters. It is not to decide what should or
should not be voted on. As Commissioner I pledge to vote to send the issue of
five commissioners to the voters (see below) and send any other issue to the ballot
box that a reasonable number of citizen’s support. That means things will fail,
and some things will pass. But it will be up to Ellis County to make those
decisions, not me.&nbsp; 

A group of area real estate agents have
called for the commission to expand from three members to five. Do you believe
the commission would benefit from expansion?

I support the expansion from three
to five Commissioners. I have heard from a number of voters they believe a
five-member Commission would benefit the county. Further, according to my
research, at least fifteen counties (15) have a five-member Commission, with
those being comparable to Ellis County such as Barton, Finney, and Coffey. 

There is a caveat. I would design
the expansion as being three districts with two at-large seats, and I would
take the current budgeted amount of approximately $57,000 and divide it amongst
the five as to limit the fiscal impact of the expansion. This would reduce the
pay of the Commission and would achieve the best outcome for the voters because
it would give us a five-member board without having a big budget increase for
salaries. 

Opponents of the effort claim that
it will make the commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What
would you do to ensure transparency?

First, I will say again I am
running on transparency and as a County Commissioner I will be willing to meet
with anyone. I am happy to discuss any issues to the extent possible, and I
will always be clear, honest and up front about what I believe and why. 

With respect to the Commission,
that argument is rooted in the Kansas Open Meetings Act, and assumes that if
two Commissioners were to meet, they are discussing something that must be put
on the record. Let me put it another way, under the current structure, two
Commissioners could not have a friendly breakfast together to get to know one
another without the meeting being noticed. Such a scenario sounds extreme, and
I think most reasonable people would agree with that. I point this out because certain
procedures and protections are in place to ensure transparency is, and would
continue, to exist. For example, there is always public notice, public comment,
and a formal process any permit, approval, or budget would go through. People
are always able to talk to their elected officials and I encourage them to do
so. There is the planning and zoning board, and there are several other boards,
commissioners, and government employees that will make sure transparency
exists. There is also the Kansas Open Records Act, and more.

Further, I would be happy to
revisit the board’s ethical policies and operating procedures to put in place
any rules, procedures or protections that are reasonable in nature and would
help remove any concerns. From my perspective, five member boards have operated
well in many locations. Finally, I think by expanding to a five-member board it
helps transparency because it allows a more in-depth dive by commissioners over
their respective departments, which would better equip them to ensure
responsible stewardship of county resources and will better prepare us to
answer any questions from constituents.

Editor's note: Hays Post compiled a list of relevant questions for all candidates, who received and responded to that same list.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays PostChris McGowne, Joe Leroux, Nathan Leiker and Randy Marintzer
are all on the Republican ballot for the Third District seat on the Ellis County Commission. The primary will be Tuesday, Aug. 2.&nbsp;The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.After the passage of two
quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county short term financial situation has
improved but the taxes are scheduled to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the
county improve its financial footing in the long term, and do you believe the
sales tax should be extended?It is too early to decide if they
should be extended beyond their sunset in 2030. This is for several reasons
such as the overall effective tax rate for Ellis County residents, economic
health of the local economy, and the fact that we have a large number of fixed
income residents. For example, oil prices are impossible to project ten years
out, we are unsure of what the agricultural industry will be facing, what other
taxes may be implemented at the state of local level, or what the fiscal health
of the County is. However, I think it would be extremely prudent for the County
to assume those taxes will expire upon their own terms. Prior to adoption of the tax in
2020, Ellis County was one of the few Kansas counties that did not have a
countywide sales tax. The County budget is traditionally funded through
property taxes and fees which make up the bulk of the revenue. The sales tax
was adopted in response to economic difficulties facing the county. When it was
proposed, the county estimated that two-thirds of the revenue collected from
the new taxes would come from outside residents. &nbsp;The crucial aspect for me is that
voters approved those taxes with the expectation of expiration in ten years. That
was the way the taxes were framed, and I believe all too often “nothing is so
permanent as a temporary government program”. I believe the county should be
looking at this ten-year tax as an opportunity to use those funds to shore up
future budgets and services, not as permanent revenue source that will be in
place in perpetuity. Further, the circumstances for many household budgets have
changed since the passage of those sales taxes. We have the highest inflation
in the US since 1981, we have skyrocketing energy costs, a sharp rise in gas
prices, and going to the grocery store often looks like a house payment. I
believe elected officials should be looking to find ways to ease family
financial pressures, not compound those issues. Past commissions have earmarked a
portion of the sales tax for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a
commissioner would you continue to support that effort? Why or why not?I absolutely would like to earmark
a portion of the sales tax for infrastructure. Ellis County maintains over
1,400 miles of county roads and 200 bridges. This infrastructure is approaching
100 years in age and infrastructure maintenance and upkeep was a fundamental
reason the sales taxes were initially approved. Elected officials have a
responsibility to the public at large to live up to their obligations. There is
a current backlog of projects, and county roads are fundamental to important
local industries like agriculture, oil, and gas. Time and time again I have
heard from citizens when I knock on their door that county roads are one of
their top priorities. This is especially true for the voters living in the
rural areas.What do you see as the top concern
of Ellis County voters over the next few years and what would you do to ease
that concern?I believe the top concern for Ellis
County voters over the next few years will be the economy. By way of example,
consumer energy costs have risen over twenty seven percent over the last year.
Food costs have risen over eleven percent and are projected to continue to
rise. Supply chain issues have caused shortages for things like baby formula,
and when people can find those products, they are paying significantly more. Heck,
bacon is now between nine and twelve dollars a pound, a double-digit year over
year increase. Family budgets are being crushed.
According to every measurable economic marker, costs for the average family
have seen the highest year over year increase in a generation. Another example
is assessed values. Over the last few years, they have consistently increased,
in some instances five or six figures. Combine that with the addition of the
sales tax, the projected increase from the school bond, and the additional
taxes we pay at the state and local level, and we have created a perfect
economic storm for voters right as we head into a devasting recession. All
signs point to an economic slowdown of great proportions, and the county has a
responsibility consider those facts when making its year over year and five-year
budget plans. It is quite simple. Who should bear the brunt of the looming
recession, taxpayers or the government? Of course, the second major issue
is housing. There is quite clearly a housing shortage within Ellis County, and
it is causing prices to inflate. The law of supply and demand says we should
find ways get private parties together to build more affordable houses for
Ellis County residents. I do not believe we should subsidize this development; it
should be private parties working on finding solutions that allow for the
market to drive the demand and availability. Should the Ellis County Commission
be more or less proactive in economic development in the county and, if so, what
is the best way to attract business to the area?Yes, I strongly believe the County
should be more proactive in economic development. However, I believe this also
a two-part issue. First, we should work on helping to protect and grow already
established businesses. We have a lot of great opportunities in the oil and gas
industry, agriculture, and health care industries along with service, retail
and more. However, these employers are finding it hard to attract and retain
employees. Even when they are can, supply chain issues, inflation, and other
economic pressures are still making it difficult to expand. Add in the fact
that businesses pay higher property tax rates and bear a large share of other
tax burdens, we need to find ways to help them decrease costs while helping
ensure our unemployment rate remains low. With respect to attracting new
businesses, we should focus on few simple things starting with quality of life.
Ellis County is an amazing county with great people and a strong sense of
community. We are by far the best place to live in western Kansas, and we
should focus on building our bedroom community with those businesses that want
to contribute to our way of life. Also, we should be promoting our regulatory
environment and cost of living. Despite our community being rocked by the above
issues, we are still a much better place to put a business than a large metro
area or blue state. And finally, we should be letting people know that there
are certain programs already in place that can work to attract outside
interest. For example, Ellis County falls into a certain category where if
people move into the community, in certain circumstances they are exempt from
income taxes for up to five years. The County should be inventorying the
already in-place programs we can use to bring economic growth to the area
without having to spend additional funds or put in place special subsidies. The commission has worked with the
cities within Ellis County on various projects. Do you see any other
opportunities for continued cooperation? Are there areas where the entities
need to expand cooperation?I believe both statements to be
true. First, I should note that I am a strong supporter of home rule and local
control. Our system of government is designed to let municipalities govern
themselves, with the County being responsible for the unincorporated areas and
merely providing support to the municipalities. With respect to areas of
partnership, I believe issues such as public safety, economic development,
emergency services, and roads and bridges are areas of common ground. With respect to expanding
cooperation I would want to ask the municipalities what they need. For example,
I recently read where the City of Victoria is having meetings to find ways to
develop certain projects like a grocery store. I would like to help them
achieve those goals, but only to the extent they would want they help. I would
not want any community to feel like the County is meddling in their affairs,
so&nbsp; I would want to be sure any action
taken was with the consent of those living in that community and their elected leaders
and is done in the manner they dictate. In your view, what is the primary
difference between how you would serve as a county commissioner and the other
candidates?I can only speak for &nbsp;myself but my first focus as a County
Commissioner is on transparency. For example, I have knocked on a lot of doors,
and the information I hand out contains my email (<a href="mailto:chris@mcgowneforkansas.com">chris@mcgowneforkansas.com</a>) and phone number (785-259-9233)
so they can get a hold of me anytime. I cannot guarantee that I will solve
every problem, and I certainly will not guarantee that all the voters will
agree with every decision that I make. However, I want people to know that I
will always hear anyone out, I will listen to new ideas, and I will always have
a good reason for what I do and will be happy to explain myself anytime. &nbsp;I have heard a lot about people
wanting a new perspective. For example, which includes not having a
preconceived notion on certain issues or having any family or business ties
that would limit my ability to vote on things or be open to new approaches. I
plan to govern Ellis County like I live my life, with a bias toward freedom,
responsibility, and less is more when it comes to government. In what ways does your personal and
professional experience qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?I am a land use lawyer who has
worked in local government and the oil and gas industry combined for over a
decade. I studied land use, local government, energy, and health care in
school, and have worked with planning and zoning, business development, and
local budgets for most of my career. I have no ties, special interests, or
other obligations that prevent me from making informed decisions that benefit
all the citizens. I have experience working with people from all walks of life,
and I was born and raised in this County and my family has been here since the
1960s. I love Ellis County, and I truly believe in its potential. I am the most qualified because of
my background, history, and experience. I have testified at hundreds of state
and local meetings, I am an expert in land use regulations and local
government, and I am comfortable talking to anyone. I believe I can bring
people from all different perspectives together, and I am a person that is
focused on finding solutions to problems as opposed to “what ifs”. Finally, I
am pragmatic. I understand the proper role of government, what it should and
more importantly should not do. I understand that everyone does not get their
way all the time, and my job is to do what is best for everyone, not myself. What decision made by the county
commission in the last few years did you disagree with and what would have been
your decision?I think the first example of a
decision I disagreed with would be the Commission not sending the question of
Ellis County expanding the Commission to the voters. This is an important
distinction, as the next question deals with expansion itself. I believe if citizens want
something sent to the ballot, which should be their option. My job as a commissioner
is to abide by the wishes of the voters. It is not to decide what should or
should not be voted on. As Commissioner I pledge to vote to send the issue of
five commissioners to the voters (see below) and send any other issue to the ballot
box that a reasonable number of citizen’s support. That means things will fail,
and some things will pass. But it will be up to Ellis County to make those
decisions, not me.&nbsp; A group of area real estate agents have
called for the commission to expand from three members to five. Do you believe
the commission would benefit from expansion?I support the expansion from three
to five Commissioners. I have heard from a number of voters they believe a
five-member Commission would benefit the county. Further, according to my
research, at least fifteen counties (15) have a five-member Commission, with
those being comparable to Ellis County such as Barton, Finney, and Coffey. There is a caveat. I would design
the expansion as being three districts with two at-large seats, and I would
take the current budgeted amount of approximately $57,000 and divide it amongst
the five as to limit the fiscal impact of the expansion. This would reduce the
pay of the Commission and would achieve the best outcome for the voters because
it would give us a five-member board without having a big budget increase for
salaries. Opponents of the effort claim that
it will make the commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What
would you do to ensure transparency?First, I will say again I am
running on transparency and as a County Commissioner I will be willing to meet
with anyone. I am happy to discuss any issues to the extent possible, and I
will always be clear, honest and up front about what I believe and why. With respect to the Commission,
that argument is rooted in the Kansas Open Meetings Act, and assumes that if
two Commissioners were to meet, they are discussing something that must be put
on the record. Let me put it another way, under the current structure, two
Commissioners could not have a friendly breakfast together to get to know one
another without the meeting being noticed. Such a scenario sounds extreme, and
I think most reasonable people would agree with that. I point this out because certain
procedures and protections are in place to ensure transparency is, and would
continue, to exist. For example, there is always public notice, public comment,
and a formal process any permit, approval, or budget would go through. People
are always able to talk to their elected officials and I encourage them to do
so. There is the planning and zoning board, and there are several other boards,
commissioners, and government employees that will make sure transparency
exists. There is also the Kansas Open Records Act, and more.Further, I would be happy to
revisit the board’s ethical policies and operating procedures to put in place
any rules, procedures or protections that are reasonable in nature and would
help remove any concerns. From my perspective, five member boards have operated
well in many locations. Finally, I think by expanding to a five-member board it
helps transparency because it allows a more in-depth dive by commissioners over
their respective departments, which would better equip them to ensure
responsible stewardship of county resources and will better prepare us to
answer any questions from constituents.Editor's note: Hays Post compiled a list of relevant questions for all candidates, who received and responded to that same list.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Commission: Chris McGowne

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Members of the Hays school board requested a change to the Hays elementary and middle school dress codes after a parent complained about a ban on clothing promoting satanism.

A mother of three students in Hays public schools, Mary Turner, spoke during the public comment period of the school board meeting Monday night.

She said she is a longtime member of the Satanic Temple. 

"I raise my children according to the seven tenants of satanism, and while children of other faiths can wear clothing that declares their family's religion," she said, "my family's faith is specifically called out and banned in the school handbook dress code.

"Your own non-discrimination policies state that you do not discriminate against students based on religion. Your own mission says every student in every classroom every day," Turner said.

The Satanic Temple has been a federally recognized church for many years, Turner said.

"Banning Satanic students from wearing clothing that declares their faith while allowing students of all other faiths to wear similar clothing is an act of discrimination," she said.

"I am here to ask that the school board remove satanism from their dress code policy and they no longer blacklist my family's faith and the faith of other families here in Hays as distracting, unsafe or offensive," Turner said.

Later in the meeting, the school board took up second reading of the student handbooks in question. 

There is no explicit ban on satanic clothing in the Hays High School handbook. It is specifically banned in the elementary and middle school handbooks.

The HHS dress code states: Attire worn in observance of a student’s religion are
 not subject to this policy. Questions should be directed to 
administration.

"I read that and I was very impressed with that dress code, and I thought that would be a very good dress code overall," board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said of the dress code in the HHS handbook.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the litmus test for the policy is not about moral judgment, but whether the clothing would be considered disruptive. 

"It is interesting on the previous page, we have a non-discrimination statement," Zampieri-Lillpopp said. "We have it up on our wall that we value diversity and we value inclusion and then we specifically say the name of one religion in the no list.

"I would challenge someone to put their own religion in that space and see how it feels," she said.

She added any statement could be disruptive if someone twisted it.

"The disruption is not the clothing," Zampieri-Lillpopp said. "The disruption is the person behaving in a disruptive manner."

Board member Curt Vajnar, who also was a longtime teacher for Hays USD 489, said he disagreed.

"As a school teacher in your classroom, it's a distraction," he said. "Some things you can put on a shirt that is a distraction. You're dealing with that and not teaching."

Vajnar gave the example of the "Big Johnson" shirts from several years ago.

Wilson said similar policies date back to the civil unrest during the Vietnam War.

Board member Tammy Wellbrock said she liked the idea of adding the word disruptive to the elementary and middle school policies.

Wilson agreed to take the dress code policies back to the administration and rework them.

The handbooks will come back before the board during their retreat meeting on Friday, Aug. 5. Wilson said the handbooks will need to be finalized then so they can be made available to students before the start of the school year.

The student handbooks will now include the new name of the Learning Center, which is now Hays Virtual Schools. Students no longer have to attend classes in-person at the school's computer lab. It serves students in grades nine and through adults.

Students from anywhere in the state can enroll in the program, but the program focuses highly on attendance whether online or in person.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMembers of the Hays school board requested a change to the Hays elementary and middle school dress codes after a parent complained about a ban on clothing promoting satanism. A mother of three students in Hays public schools, Mary Turner, spoke during the public comment period of the school board meeting Monday night.She said she is a longtime member of the Satanic Temple. "I raise my children according to the seven tenants of satanism, and while children of other faiths can wear clothing that declares their family's religion," she said, "my family's faith is specifically called out and banned in the school handbook dress code. "Your own non-discrimination policies state that you do not discriminate against students based on religion. Your own mission says every student in every classroom every day," Turner said.The Satanic Temple has been a federally recognized church for many years, Turner said."Banning Satanic students from wearing clothing that declares their faith while allowing students of all other faiths to wear similar clothing is an act of discrimination," she said."I am here to ask that the school board remove satanism from their dress code policy and they no longer blacklist my family's faith and the faith of other families here in Hays as distracting, unsafe or offensive," Turner said.Later in the meeting, the school board took up second reading of the student handbooks in question. There is no explicit ban on satanic clothing in the Hays High School handbook. It is specifically banned in the elementary and middle school handbooks.The HHS dress code states: Attire worn in observance of a student’s religion are
 not subject to this policy. Questions should be directed to 
administration. "I read that and I was very impressed with that dress code, and I thought that would be a very good dress code overall," board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said of the dress code in the HHS handbook.Superintendent Ron Wilson said the litmus test for the policy is not about moral judgment, but whether the clothing would be considered disruptive. "It is interesting on the previous page, we have a non-discrimination statement," Zampieri-Lillpopp said. "We have it up on our wall that we value diversity and we value inclusion and then we specifically say the name of one religion in the no list."I would challenge someone to put their own religion in that space and see how it feels," she said. She added any statement could be disruptive if someone twisted it."The disruption is not the clothing," Zampieri-Lillpopp said. "The disruption is the person behaving in a disruptive manner."Board member Curt Vajnar, who also was a longtime teacher for Hays USD 489, said he disagreed."As a school teacher in your classroom, it's a distraction," he said. "Some things you can put on a shirt that is a distraction. You're dealing with that and not teaching."Vajnar gave the example of the "Big Johnson" shirts from several years ago.Wilson said similar policies date back to the civil unrest during the Vietnam War. Board member Tammy Wellbrock said she liked the idea of adding the word disruptive to the elementary and middle school policies.Wilson agreed to take the dress code policies back to the administration and rework them. The handbooks will come back before the board during their retreat meeting on Friday, Aug. 5. Wilson said the handbooks will need to be finalized then so they can be made available to students before the start of the school year. The student handbooks will now include the new name of the Learning Center, which is now Hays Virtual Schools. Students no longer have to attend classes in-person at the school's computer lab. It serves students in grades nine and through adults. Students from anywhere in the state can enroll in the program, but the program focuses highly on attendance whether online or in person.

Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban

PHILLIPSBURG — Phillipsburg Rodeo fans are in for a treat at the rodeo at Kansas Biggest Rodeo Aug. 4 to 6.&nbsp;

Bobby Kerr and his Mustang Act will entertain during each night of the rodeo, held at the rodeo grounds one mile north of Phillipsburg.&nbsp;

Kerr, of Hico, Texas, brings his unique team of American Mustangs and cow dogs to Phillipsburg, to inspire the audience with his display of courage and trust.

Kerr participated in two seasons of the Mustang Makeover (2011-12), finishing in the top five with every horse he trained.

The Extreme Mustang Make-over is a 100-day contest where horse trainers from across the country train a wild mustang that has never been touched by humans. In those 100 days, the trainer is to gentle, halter break and saddle train, plus build trust and develop a relationship with the horse.

Then he turned those horses into a rodeo act.&nbsp;

A horse trainer in the cutting and performance horse worlds, Kerr also trained mustangs in the Mustang Million in 2013, which was a mini-series on&nbsp;NatGeo Wild. He finished second on one mustang in the million dollar contest and third on another horse.

He will bring his mustangs to Phillipsburg, driving his car (the “Good N Broke limo”) into the arena, with his dogs on the hood. He sends a dog to the gate to bring a mustang to him. On the mustangs, he shows horsemanship and what the animal is able to do: make lead changes, spin, and jump over the car while the running boards are on fire and Kerr shoots guns.&nbsp;

At his whistle command, a dog jumps up onto the horse with Kerr, and he and a second dog do a cutting event: working with his mustang to demonstrate the horse’s athleticism and ability to handle cattle. The dog works as the “cow” with the mustang separating the dog from the other dog. Then a third horse comes into the arena, working at “liberty” – with voice commands only –from Kerr. As Kerr leaves the arena, he signals one of his mustangs to jump into his vehicle with him, and they drive out.&nbsp;

It’s an act he loves to perform. People love the mustangs and the dogs, and he loves to show the public the adaptability and intelligence of the mustangs. He loves what the horses have taught him. “They’ve changed my whole outlook on training horses,” he said. “I seem to get along with them, buddy up to them and get a lot out of them.”&nbsp;

Kerr has written cowboy poetry that he sometimes recites during the act; the poetry helps educate the crowd about the American Mustang and its trainability.&nbsp;

He has won the PRCA’s Specialty Act of the Year award three times and has entertained at rodeos and equine events across the nation, including the 2018 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. He and his horse Poncho have even been on&nbsp;Good Morning America.&nbsp;

Bobby Kerr will entertain during each night of Kansas Biggest Rodeo Aug. 4 to 6. Rodeo performances start at 8 pm nightly. Tickets are on sale online at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and start at $17 for adults and $13 for children.&nbsp;

For more information, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call 785.543.2448.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658153339489.jpeg" alt="Bobby Kerr will perform during each performance of the Phillipsburg Rodeo August 4-6. The Texas man competed in the Mustang Makeover twice. Now those horses entertain rodeo fans across the nation. Photo by Hubbell Photography." />
 <figcaption>Bobby Kerr will perform during each performance of the Phillipsburg Rodeo August 4-6. The Texas man competed in the Mustang Makeover twice. Now those horses entertain rodeo fans across the nation. Photo by Hubbell Photography.</figcaption>
 </figure>News releasePHILLIPSBURG — Phillipsburg Rodeo fans are in for a treat at the rodeo at Kansas Biggest Rodeo Aug. 4 to 6.&nbsp;Bobby Kerr and his Mustang Act will entertain during each night of the rodeo, held at the rodeo grounds one mile north of Phillipsburg.&nbsp;Kerr, of Hico, Texas, brings his unique team of American Mustangs and cow dogs to Phillipsburg, to inspire the audience with his display of courage and trust.Kerr participated in two seasons of the Mustang Makeover (2011-12), finishing in the top five with every horse he trained.The Extreme Mustang Make-over is a 100-day contest where horse trainers from across the country train a wild mustang that has never been touched by humans. In those 100 days, the trainer is to gentle, halter break and saddle train, plus build trust and develop a relationship with the horse.Then he turned those horses into a rodeo act.&nbsp;A horse trainer in the cutting and performance horse worlds, Kerr also trained mustangs in the Mustang Million in 2013, which was a mini-series on&nbsp;NatGeo Wild. He finished second on one mustang in the million dollar contest and third on another horse.“And that got it going,” Kerr said.He will bring his mustangs to Phillipsburg, driving his car (the “Good N Broke limo”) into the arena, with his dogs on the hood. He sends a dog to the gate to bring a mustang to him. On the mustangs, he shows horsemanship and what the animal is able to do: make lead changes, spin, and jump over the car while the running boards are on fire and Kerr shoots guns.&nbsp;At his whistle command, a dog jumps up onto the horse with Kerr, and he and a second dog do a cutting event: working with his mustang to demonstrate the horse’s athleticism and ability to handle cattle. The dog works as the “cow” with the mustang separating the dog from the other dog. Then a third horse comes into the arena, working at “liberty” – with voice commands only –from Kerr. As Kerr leaves the arena, he signals one of his mustangs to jump into his vehicle with him, and they drive out.&nbsp;It’s an act he loves to perform. People love the mustangs and the dogs, and he loves to show the public the adaptability and intelligence of the mustangs. He loves what the horses have taught him. “They’ve changed my whole outlook on training horses,” he said. “I seem to get along with them, buddy up to them and get a lot out of them.”&nbsp;Kerr has written cowboy poetry that he sometimes recites during the act; the poetry helps educate the crowd about the American Mustang and its trainability.&nbsp;He has won the PRCA’s Specialty Act of the Year award three times and has entertained at rodeos and equine events across the nation, including the 2018 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. He and his horse Poncho have even been on&nbsp;Good Morning America.&nbsp;Bobby Kerr will entertain during each night of Kansas Biggest Rodeo Aug. 4 to 6. Rodeo performances start at 8 pm nightly. Tickets are on sale online at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and start at $17 for adults and $13 for children.&nbsp;For more information, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call 785.543.2448.

Texan to entertain at Phillipsburg Rodeo with American mustangs

Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Thu Jun 23 2022 15:45:48 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Hunter Marshall"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/qk4FKKbZ-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/qk4FKKbZ-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/qk4FKKbZ-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Hunter Marshall" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Hunter Marshall

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

It’s ironic how I checked my weather app multiple times daily as we harvested wheat in June. We wanted to get the crop out of the fields before the summer storms rolled in, which always offers the potential of damaging hail or winds and could put harvest on hold while things would need to dry up.&nbsp; &nbsp; Now that harvest is over, I check my weather app multiple times daily to see if there is a small chance of rain or lower temperatures in the July forecast. &nbsp; No matter the number of times I tap on the weather app on my phone, no matter what 10-day forecast I look at, and no matter who the meteorologist is on the television, the triple digits have not budged, and I’ve accepted that we’re in for an excessively hot, dry spell. &nbsp; The crops currently growing on our farm are on a combination of dryland and irrigated acres. The sorghum, corn and soybeans growing on our dryland acres will soon show how much they can truly tolerate drought. The crops on our irrigated acres will also show their heat tolerance.&nbsp; &nbsp; While I am concerned for the crops that will not see a break in hot, dry temperatures as they attempt to grow, I’m incredibly concerned about the animals and the people. &nbsp; While there will be many people who will seek refuge in air-conditioned environments, farmers and ranchers will continue to be out in the elements ensuring their livestock have plenty of water and the irrigation systems are maintained and continue to run.&nbsp;They will also be out in these elements when things go down and need fixed.&nbsp; &nbsp; Early in my marriage I remember spending a couple very long, hot days helping my husband and father-in-law repair an irrigation well in triple-digit heat. While we made sure to stay hydrated, the heat was oppressive. It had a toll on my body, and it took me a number of days to “get back to normal.” &nbsp; Aside from the continued work farmers and ranchers will be doing on their operations during this heat, youth fairs are right around the corner. As a kid, I always looked forward to taking my cattle to the summer fair.&nbsp; &nbsp; It was fun to live in the barns for a few days with my friends during fair time. We’d sit and play cards on our showboxes while our cattle rested with misters and industrial fans pointed on them. There was always an endless supply of ice-cold drinks in cans and pouches stored in large coolers nearby. The random pop-up water fights in the wash racks in the evenings after the animals had been fed, watered and tied out for the night was also guaranteed. &nbsp; While I hope the kids enjoy their fair experiences this year, I know they will be working extra hard to keep their livestock hydrated and cooled while they also spend their days in this heat. &nbsp; During this heat spell, it is my hope that your loved ones, co-workers and employees are staying hydrated. Keep extra water on hand – including in your vehicles. Pace yourself and know when it's time to take a break and then take it. Monitor those who spend extra time outdoors and offer grace to those who come home at night exhausted from the heat while caring for the crops and livestock.&nbsp; &nbsp; This season shall pass; but while we’re living in it, keep track of others and yourself.&nbsp;

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherIt’s ironic how I checked my weather app multiple times daily as we harvested wheat in June. We wanted to get the crop out of the fields before the summer storms rolled in, which always offers the potential of damaging hail or winds and could put harvest on hold while things would need to dry up.&nbsp; &nbsp; Now that harvest is over, I check my weather app multiple times daily to see if there is a small chance of rain or lower temperatures in the July forecast. &nbsp; No matter the number of times I tap on the weather app on my phone, no matter what 10-day forecast I look at, and no matter who the meteorologist is on the television, the triple digits have not budged, and I’ve accepted that we’re in for an excessively hot, dry spell. &nbsp; The crops currently growing on our farm are on a combination of dryland and irrigated acres. The sorghum, corn and soybeans growing on our dryland acres will soon show how much they can truly tolerate drought. The crops on our irrigated acres will also show their heat tolerance.&nbsp; &nbsp; While I am concerned for the crops that will not see a break in hot, dry temperatures as they attempt to grow, I’m incredibly concerned about the animals and the people. &nbsp; While there will be many people who will seek refuge in air-conditioned environments, farmers and ranchers will continue to be out in the elements ensuring their livestock have plenty of water and the irrigation systems are maintained and continue to run.&nbsp;They will also be out in these elements when things go down and need fixed.&nbsp; &nbsp; Early in my marriage I remember spending a couple very long, hot days helping my husband and father-in-law repair an irrigation well in triple-digit heat. While we made sure to stay hydrated, the heat was oppressive. It had a toll on my body, and it took me a number of days to “get back to normal.” &nbsp; Aside from the continued work farmers and ranchers will be doing on their operations during this heat, youth fairs are right around the corner. As a kid, I always looked forward to taking my cattle to the summer fair.&nbsp; &nbsp; It was fun to live in the barns for a few days with my friends during fair time. We’d sit and play cards on our showboxes while our cattle rested with misters and industrial fans pointed on them. There was always an endless supply of ice-cold drinks in cans and pouches stored in large coolers nearby. The random pop-up water fights in the wash racks in the evenings after the animals had been fed, watered and tied out for the night was also guaranteed. &nbsp; While I hope the kids enjoy their fair experiences this year, I know they will be working extra hard to keep their livestock hydrated and cooled while they also spend their days in this heat. &nbsp; During this heat spell, it is my hope that your loved ones, co-workers and employees are staying hydrated. Keep extra water on hand – including in your vehicles. Pace yourself and know when it's time to take a break and then take it. Monitor those who spend extra time outdoors and offer grace to those who come home at night exhausted from the heat while caring for the crops and livestock.&nbsp; &nbsp; This season shall pass; but while we’re living in it, keep track of others and yourself.&nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Surviving summer

<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/2022/7/1658244888668.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

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MidwestEnergy">Midwest Energy Facebook page</a>&nbsp;today:&nbsp;

From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MidwestEnergy">Midwest Energy Facebook page</a>&nbsp;today:&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMidwestEnergy%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02NUJcVYzZUJMKj6SUW9DqY1d9HHnQBxCF3vwu3CNTq9JR1i3zwUsnuyrSbHd7XcPhl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="806" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658253681822.jpeg" alt="Working at night on a planned project in downtown Hays due to extreme temperatures. (Photos by Midwest Energy)" />
 <figcaption>Working at night on a planned project in downtown Hays due to extreme temperatures. (Photos by Midwest Energy)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658253742601.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Midwest Energy)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Midwest Energy)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Extreme heat has Midwest Energy crews working at night on planned Hays project 

After the passage of two quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county 
short-term financial situation has improved but the taxes are scheduled 
to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the county improve its financial 
footing in the long term, and do you believe the sales tax should be 
extended?

I believe that the county should leave the sales tax 
alone. At this point everyone is accustomed to it, so before it sunsets,
 I believe the commission should make it permanent. In so doing, we 
should be mindful of where those funds come from, and use them to better
 the lives of all individuals in the county. We could do this by 
leveraging those funds with private industry or federal funds for large 
capital improvements.  

Past commissions have earmarked a 
portion of the sales tax for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a
 commissioner would you continue to support that effort? Why or why not?

 I think earmarking funds for infrastructure upkeep and is a 
wise idea, we can use those intended funds along with federal funds to 
make much needed updates within the county. We are too far behind to use
 those funds in any other manner. 

What do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters over the next few years and what would you do to ease that concern?

I
 think people are worried about where their hard-earned money is going. 
If the roads stay the same and we don’t see any updates on the bridges, I
 think people will start to ask questions about what the money is being 
used for. To help with this, I think by showing citizens pictures and of
 things being done, and by simply being more visible to the people by 
attending events and answering questions will help alleviate this 
problem. 

Should the Ellis County Commission be more or 
less proactive in economic development in the county and, if so, what is 
the best way to attract business to the area?

The county should 
be proactive in recruiting new business for economic development. The 
best way to help attract business is to keep the business environment 
steady and stable. Do this by keeping taxes at a steady and feasible 
rate, and showing businesses that we have the capital and the desire to 
keep up our infrastructure. If we as residents and commissioners of the 
county are investing in the future of Ellis County, I think business 
will follow. 

The commission has worked with the cities 
within Ellis County on various projects. Do you see any other 
opportunities for continued cooperation? Are there areas where the 
entities need to expand cooperation?

The county has been doing a 
good job in sharing equipment with municipalities within the county when
 it is not feasible for each city to own all of the expensive task 
focused equipment, an example would be asphalt paving equipment. Other 
areas for expansion of cooperation would be telecommunication expansions
 in the future. Wiring and internet is here and is going to be part of 
the ability to recruit and maintain businesses within the county, and at
 this point the county will need to be at the table for all of those 
talks, bringing new and better services to those communities. 

In your view, what is the primary difference between how you would serve as a county commissioner and the other candidates?

The
 primary difference between me and other candidates is that I have built
 my life around Ellis County.  My wife and I have never left to pursue 
lives outside of the county, and we raising our kids using the resources
 of the school system within county. I done the dirty, grimy, hard jobs 
that many of the people paying taxes in the county do. I am as close to 
citizen governance as you may get. 

In what ways does your personal and professional experience qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?

In
 personal experience, I have been building a business with my family, 
and know the struggles that come with the ups and downs of markets and 
what it takes to keep your dreams alive. On a professional level, I have
 been on the county zoning board for the past several years helping to 
ensure the focus of the county stays true to our history while being as 
forward focused as possible. I have also spent the previous 10 years 
working with K-State Research and Extension serving as both board
 member and board chair, and creating an extension district with Barton 
County during that time, and was also part of K-State State Extension 
advisory team, helping with policy decisions for all extension. 

What decision made by the county commission in the last few years did you disagree with and what would have been your decision?

Recent
 decision made by the commission that I disagreed with was a zoning 
application in 2021, an individual had followed all the proper 
guidelines to develop an events venue north of Hays, there was no 
legitimate reason for the denial after it was approved by the zoning 
board, and on a personal level, I feel the government should have very 
little authority to advise people of what can be done on their personal 
property apart from illegal actions. 

A group of area 
real estate agents have called for the commission to expand from three members to 
five. Do you believe the commission would benefit from expansion?

I
 don’t feel that more government is ever a good thing. In every 
workplace, it takes workers and managers, once an imbalance happens, 
productivity drops. More managers at the top of the county are not the 
answer. 

Opponents of the effort claim that it will make 
the commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What would 
you do to ensure transparency?

I agree that it could easily 
become less transparent, and be abused. To ensure transparency, I 
believe that all business discussed should be easily accessed by anyone 
that would question a decision. 

Hays PostChris McGowne, Joe Leroux, Nathan Leiker and Randy Marintzer
are all on the Republican ballot for the Third District seat on the Ellis County Commission. The primary will be Tuesday, Aug. 2.&nbsp;The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.After the passage of two quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county 
short-term financial situation has improved but the taxes are scheduled 
to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the county improve its financial 
footing in the long term, and do you believe the sales tax should be 
extended? I believe that the county should leave the sales tax 
alone. At this point everyone is accustomed to it, so before it sunsets,
 I believe the commission should make it permanent. In so doing, we 
should be mindful of where those funds come from, and use them to better
 the lives of all individuals in the county. We could do this by 
leveraging those funds with private industry or federal funds for large 
capital improvements. Past commissions have earmarked a 
portion of the sales tax for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a
 commissioner would you continue to support that effort? Why or why not?
 I think earmarking funds for infrastructure upkeep and is a 
wise idea, we can use those intended funds along with federal funds to 
make much needed updates within the county. We are too far behind to use
 those funds in any other manner. What do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters over the next few years and what would you do to ease that concern? I
 think people are worried about where their hard-earned money is going. 
If the roads stay the same and we don’t see any updates on the bridges, I
 think people will start to ask questions about what the money is being 
used for. To help with this, I think by showing citizens pictures and of
 things being done, and by simply being more visible to the people by 
attending events and answering questions will help alleviate this 
problem. Should the Ellis County Commission be more or 
less proactive in economic development in the county and, if so, what is 
the best way to attract business to the area? The county should 
be proactive in recruiting new business for economic development. The 
best way to help attract business is to keep the business environment 
steady and stable. Do this by keeping taxes at a steady and feasible 
rate, and showing businesses that we have the capital and the desire to 
keep up our infrastructure. If we as residents and commissioners of the 
county are investing in the future of Ellis County, I think business 
will follow. The commission has worked with the cities 
within Ellis County on various projects. Do you see any other 
opportunities for continued cooperation? Are there areas where the 
entities need to expand cooperation? The county has been doing a 
good job in sharing equipment with municipalities within the county when
 it is not feasible for each city to own all of the expensive task 
focused equipment, an example would be asphalt paving equipment. Other 
areas for expansion of cooperation would be telecommunication expansions
 in the future. Wiring and internet is here and is going to be part of 
the ability to recruit and maintain businesses within the county, and at
 this point the county will need to be at the table for all of those 
talks, bringing new and better services to those communities. In your view, what is the primary difference between how you would serve as a county commissioner and the other candidates? The
 primary difference between me and other candidates is that I have built
 my life around Ellis County. My wife and I have never left to pursue 
lives outside of the county, and we raising our kids using the resources
 of the school system within county. I done the dirty, grimy, hard jobs 
that many of the people paying taxes in the county do. I am as close to 
citizen governance as you may get. In what ways does your personal and professional experience qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner? In
 personal experience, I have been building a business with my family, 
and know the struggles that come with the ups and downs of markets and 
what it takes to keep your dreams alive. On a professional level, I have
 been on the county zoning board for the past several years helping to 
ensure the focus of the county stays true to our history while being as 
forward focused as possible. I have also spent the previous 10 years 
working with K-State Research and Extension serving as both board
 member and board chair, and creating an extension district with Barton 
County during that time, and was also part of K-State State Extension 
advisory team, helping with policy decisions for all extension. What decision made by the county commission in the last few years did you disagree with and what would have been your decision? Recent
 decision made by the commission that I disagreed with was a zoning 
application in 2021, an individual had followed all the proper 
guidelines to develop an events venue north of Hays, there was no 
legitimate reason for the denial after it was approved by the zoning 
board, and on a personal level, I feel the government should have very 
little authority to advise people of what can be done on their personal 
property apart from illegal actions. A group of area 
real estate agents have called for the commission to expand from three members to 
five. Do you believe the commission would benefit from expansion? I
 don’t feel that more government is ever a good thing. In every 
workplace, it takes workers and managers, once an imbalance happens, 
productivity drops. More managers at the top of the county are not the 
answer. Opponents of the effort claim that it will make 
the commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What would 
you do to ensure transparency? I agree that it could easily 
become less transparent, and be abused. To ensure transparency, I 
believe that all business discussed should be easily accessed by anyone 
that would question a decision. Editor's note:&nbsp;Hays Post compiled a list of relevant questions for all candidates, who received and responded to that same list.

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Commission: Nathan Leiker

After the passage of two quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county short-term financial situation has improved but the taxes are
scheduled to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the county improve its
financial footing in the long term, and do you believe the sales tax should be
extended?

The portion of the sales tax that went to the county
alleviated some financial pressure on the county in leaner times. Without it,
we may have had to reduce some of the services the county provides our
community or even consider a reduction in county staff. Those things did not
have to happen, and we have the sales tax revenue to thank. In eight years,
when it sunsets, I would be supportive of an extension unless our financial
position dramatically improved between now and then. Many things the county is
doing now will help us improve our financial footing in the long run. Those
things include staying on track with our county budget and utilizing ARPA
funding in a strategic manner.

Past commissions have earmarked a portion of the sales
tax for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a commissioner, would you
continue to support that effort? Why or why not?

Infrastructure upkeep and improvement is an investment in
our community and reduces expenses associated with our infrastructure in the
long run. If you do not take the time to invest in preventative maintenance,
you will incur a larger expense down the road when you must replace something
in its entirety well before it would have aged out of service. I would continue
to support those efforts as it will save the county money over time and provide
a better level of infrastructure to our county in the meanwhile. 

What do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters
over the next few years and what would you do to ease that concern?

Property valuations and the mill levy are concerns that have
been shared with me. What I would say is that the county appraiser’s office has
done a great job of following the direction the state requires that they follow
when calculating the value of property. As the real estate market adjusts, so
should valuations. There is a cyclic ebb and flow to those figures and the
appraiser does well in capturing the correct value of property. To ease
concern, I would urge anyone who is worried to take the time to meet with the
appraiser’s office and learn more about the process so you can see how that
number was calculated. As far as the mill levy goes, the county has done well
with staying within budget despite the increased costs that inflation and
supply and demand have caused. We are at 37.395 mills, and we anticipate the
ability to stay close to there this next budget year. The sales tax provides
the county a benefit that is the equivalent of 7.61 mills. Rest assured that being
a good steward of your money is front of mind to all of us and something that a
couple of us have identified as campaign commitments. So, hold us to that.

Should the Ellis County Commission be more or less proactive
in economic development in the county and, if so, what is the best way to
attract business to the area?

We could always do more. We need to continue to work with
area organizations that promote economic development such as Grow Hays, the
Hays Chamber, and Imagine Ellis County. From being involved with each
organization prior to being a commissioner, I can say that they are aggressive
and efficient about their mission to make Ellis County an even better place to
live, work, and raise a family. The two issues of income appropriate housing
and childcare availability are an impediment to our economic development
efforts. To attract new businesses and to grow current businesses, those issues
need to be addressed. We have great area employers, great schools, and a
wonderful place to live. But if you don’t have housing options you can afford
or a trustworthy place to help care for your child, you won’t want to live and
work here. A strong partnership with the community organizations already in the
thick of the fight is important for us to continue and strengthen so we can
work together to fix these issues.

The commission has worked with the cities within Ellis
County on various projects. Do you see any other opportunities for continued
cooperation? Are there areas where the entities need to expand cooperation?

Most everyday gives us another opportunity to work with a
city within the county. Our public works department and sheriff’s department
are two great examples of the county working to help cities within the county.
Continued support of all the cities is important as we need to work together to
succeed together. I think more of an emphasis on the less populated cities is
something we could work on more as they tend to not have the resources that
Hays has. The success of Hays and the county are connected to one another, and
I respect that the health of Hays has a huge impact on the health of the county.
And when we can focus on a smaller city within the county, we should as they
more need the assistance, and they are an important part of our county too.

In your view, what is the primary difference between how
you would serve as a county commissioner and the other candidates?

The other candidates are all good people. I appreciate their
interest in public service and that they put themselves out there as a
candidate for the seat I currently have. It is not the easiest thing to do, and
it can take time away from your work and family. So, I thank them for being
candidates. A difference between them and I is that I am already your county
commissioner. You know how I will serve because you have been able to see it in
action for the better part of this year. As the only candidate who does not
have a Hays address, I also have a different perspective than they might when
it comes to serving on a county governing body as I look at how an issue will
impact all of the county and not just one city within it. The other three do
not have the combination of my service, leadership, and experience and that is
the primary difference between me as your current commissioner and them as
candidates.

In what ways does your personal and professional
experience qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?

For most of my adult life, I have served our community,
state, and nation. I am a former cop, a former firefighter, a former US Navy
sailor, and retired from the US Army. I am hardwired to serve and honored to do
so. In addition to that long record of service and leadership, I have
progressive experience with various Ellis County organizations that make me
well suited to continue my service as a county commissioner. I have served on
the board of directors for the Hays Chamber, Grow Hays, and on the Imagine
Ellis County Committee. I am also a graduate of the state chamber of commerce’s
Leadership Kansas program. During my time as an Ellis County Commissioner, I
have been appointed to the governing board of the Kansas Association of
Counties as a district commissioner and I am an active member of the Kansas
County Commissioners Association. I am well qualified to serve on the county
commission and currently do so. I have the service, leadership, and experience
needed to stay on as your county commissioner.

What decision made by the county commission in the last
few years did you disagree with and what would have been your decision?

Hays PostChris McGowne, Joe Leroux, Nathan Leiker and Randy Marintzer
are all on the Republican ballot for the Third District seat on the Ellis County Commission. The primary will be Tuesday, Aug. 2.&nbsp;The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.After the passage of two quarter-cent sales taxes in 2020, the county short-term financial situation has improved but the taxes are
scheduled to sunset in 2030. How do you propose the county improve its
financial footing in the long term, and do you believe the sales tax should be
extended?The portion of the sales tax that went to the county
alleviated some financial pressure on the county in leaner times. Without it,
we may have had to reduce some of the services the county provides our
community or even consider a reduction in county staff. Those things did not
have to happen, and we have the sales tax revenue to thank. In eight years,
when it sunsets, I would be supportive of an extension unless our financial
position dramatically improved between now and then. Many things the county is
doing now will help us improve our financial footing in the long run. Those
things include staying on track with our county budget and utilizing ARPA
funding in a strategic manner.Past commissions have earmarked a portion of the sales
tax for infrastructure upkeep and improvements. As a commissioner, would you
continue to support that effort? Why or why not?Infrastructure upkeep and improvement is an investment in
our community and reduces expenses associated with our infrastructure in the
long run. If you do not take the time to invest in preventative maintenance,
you will incur a larger expense down the road when you must replace something
in its entirety well before it would have aged out of service. I would continue
to support those efforts as it will save the county money over time and provide
a better level of infrastructure to our county in the meanwhile. What do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters
over the next few years and what would you do to ease that concern?Property valuations and the mill levy are concerns that have
been shared with me. What I would say is that the county appraiser’s office has
done a great job of following the direction the state requires that they follow
when calculating the value of property. As the real estate market adjusts, so
should valuations. There is a cyclic ebb and flow to those figures and the
appraiser does well in capturing the correct value of property. To ease
concern, I would urge anyone who is worried to take the time to meet with the
appraiser’s office and learn more about the process so you can see how that
number was calculated. As far as the mill levy goes, the county has done well
with staying within budget despite the increased costs that inflation and
supply and demand have caused. We are at 37.395 mills, and we anticipate the
ability to stay close to there this next budget year. The sales tax provides
the county a benefit that is the equivalent of 7.61 mills. Rest assured that being
a good steward of your money is front of mind to all of us and something that a
couple of us have identified as campaign commitments. So, hold us to that.Should the Ellis County Commission be more or less proactive
in economic development in the county and, if so, what is the best way to
attract business to the area?We could always do more. We need to continue to work with
area organizations that promote economic development such as Grow Hays, the
Hays Chamber, and Imagine Ellis County. From being involved with each
organization prior to being a commissioner, I can say that they are aggressive
and efficient about their mission to make Ellis County an even better place to
live, work, and raise a family. The two issues of income appropriate housing
and childcare availability are an impediment to our economic development
efforts. To attract new businesses and to grow current businesses, those issues
need to be addressed. We have great area employers, great schools, and a
wonderful place to live. But if you don’t have housing options you can afford
or a trustworthy place to help care for your child, you won’t want to live and
work here. A strong partnership with the community organizations already in the
thick of the fight is important for us to continue and strengthen so we can
work together to fix these issues.The commission has worked with the cities within Ellis
County on various projects. Do you see any other opportunities for continued
cooperation? Are there areas where the entities need to expand cooperation?Most everyday gives us another opportunity to work with a
city within the county. Our public works department and sheriff’s department
are two great examples of the county working to help cities within the county.
Continued support of all the cities is important as we need to work together to
succeed together. I think more of an emphasis on the less populated cities is
something we could work on more as they tend to not have the resources that
Hays has. The success of Hays and the county are connected to one another, and
I respect that the health of Hays has a huge impact on the health of the county.
And when we can focus on a smaller city within the county, we should as they
more need the assistance, and they are an important part of our county too.In your view, what is the primary difference between how
you would serve as a county commissioner and the other candidates?The other candidates are all good people. I appreciate their
interest in public service and that they put themselves out there as a
candidate for the seat I currently have. It is not the easiest thing to do, and
it can take time away from your work and family. So, I thank them for being
candidates. A difference between them and I is that I am already your county
commissioner. You know how I will serve because you have been able to see it in
action for the better part of this year. As the only candidate who does not
have a Hays address, I also have a different perspective than they might when
it comes to serving on a county governing body as I look at how an issue will
impact all of the county and not just one city within it. The other three do
not have the combination of my service, leadership, and experience and that is
the primary difference between me as your current commissioner and them as
candidates.In what ways does your personal and professional
experience qualify you to serve as an Ellis County Commissioner?For most of my adult life, I have served our community,
state, and nation. I am a former cop, a former firefighter, a former US Navy
sailor, and retired from the US Army. I am hardwired to serve and honored to do
so. In addition to that long record of service and leadership, I have
progressive experience with various Ellis County organizations that make me
well suited to continue my service as a county commissioner. I have served on
the board of directors for the Hays Chamber, Grow Hays, and on the Imagine
Ellis County Committee. I am also a graduate of the state chamber of commerce’s
Leadership Kansas program. During my time as an Ellis County Commissioner, I
have been appointed to the governing board of the Kansas Association of
Counties as a district commissioner and I am an active member of the Kansas
County Commissioners Association. I am well qualified to serve on the county
commission and currently do so. I have the service, leadership, and experience
needed to stay on as your county commissioner.What decision made by the county commission in the last
few years did you disagree with and what would have been your decision?From the perspective of having been on the Grow Hays board
of directors prior to being on the county commission, I disagreed with what I
felt was the county not being as proactive in their efforts in the category of
economic development as they could be. Since being on the commission, I have
had the chance to see that my perception was not as accurate as I had thought
and that the county is deeply committed to economic development and
improvements to our community. Two years ago, I did feel like they could have
awarded more funds to organizations like Grow Hays, but a year ago the county
did start increasing their financial investment in economic development and to groups
like Grow Hays.A group of area real estate agents have called for the commission
to expand from three members to five. Do you believe the commission would
benefit from expansion?I do not have a preference on a three-, five-, or
seven-member commission. If the majority of residents desire a larger
commission, we should honor that desire and find a way to make it work. No
matter the size, you still need at least three meetings to visit with all of us
commissioners outside of a commission meeting. The reality is that the normal pre-vote
process won't significantly change with more commissioners, but it would lower
the likelihood of an issue not being voted on one way or the other if someone
had to abstain from a vote. That could be a benefit though it is rare that
someone has abstained from a vote. If the voters feel the additional expense of
a larger commission is worth mitigating the risk of that from happening, then
we should take their direction on how to spend their money. I do think if we
increase the commission size, to make it more affordable, we should – if
allowed – do away with the health care plan option for commissioners and take
the salary of the three and divide it by five so it does not cost as much for
our county to have a larger commission. We would still have the costs
associated with redistricting but the costs we can control, we should.Opponents of the effort claim that it will make the
commission less transparent, do you agree or disagree? What would you do to ensure transparency?I agree that if the intent is to have enough private meetings
with different sets of two commissioners before a vote to have a better sense
of the outcome of a vote, then, yes, that would make the commission less
transparent. Even if that did not happen, the perception from the public that
it could happen may be enough to undermine the public’s confidence in a fair
and transparent voting process from the county commissioners. No matter how a
vote turns out, it should be done in front of the public in an open forum. All
the commissioners can be called, emailed, and met with by anyone prior to a
vote. This can happen with three, five, or seven of us. I have been very
accessible to anyone who has wanted to visit with me about any issue and that
would never change while I was a commissioner. The other two are also good
about meeting with anyone prior to a vote. What currently can’t happen is two
commissioners meeting outside of a public forum, on record, to discuss an
upcoming vote. If we went to five, then two could meet as it would not be a
majority of the commissioners. Though legal, it would not seem right to me, and
I would avoid those type of meetings to do my part to ensure the transparency
of at least how I would vote. Editor's note:&nbsp;Hays Post compiled a list of relevant questions for all candidates, who received and responded to that same list.

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