The 5 and 6A state track and field meet starts at 8 a.m. Thursday.

Listen to 101.9 The Bull for updates and check back with HaysPost for updated results throughout the day.

Girls 100 Meter Hurdles Class 5A prelims Brooklyn Lewallen – 13th in prelims at 16.62

Boys 100 Meter Dash
Class 5A prelims Jaren Kanak – 2nd best time in prelims (10.66). Qualifies for finals Malik Bah – 13th (11.38)

Boys 100 Meter Dash
Class 5A Finals Jaren Kanak – 2nd 10.58

Girls 200 Meter Dash&nbsp;Prelims&nbsp;Class 5A Lilian McGrath - &nbsp;15th 26.95

Girls Triple Jump Class 5A Re&nbsp; Green - &nbsp;5th 36’ 0.75”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Boys Discus Throw Class 5A Trey Adams – 2nd
178’7” Grayson Walburn – 10th 131’5”

Boys 110 Meter Hurdles Prelims Class 5A TY Adams – 11th 16.78 Boys 200 Meter Dash Class 5A prelims Jaren Kanak – 2nd 22.24 - Qualifies for finals&nbsp;

Girls 4x800 Meter Relay Class 5A Hays – 14th 10:22.85 1) Jaeger Amelia 2) Avery Winter 3Claire Shippy 4) Brenlynn Albers&nbsp;

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay Class 5A Hays – DQ’d for zone violation 1) Brooklyn Lewallen 2) Landri Dotts 3) Lilian McGrath 4) Reanna Green&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Boys Triple Jump Class 5A |Kyreese Groen – 13th
40’7.50”

Boys 4x100 Meter Relay Class 5A Hays – 3rd 43.67 1) Logan Casper 2) Bryce Salmans 3) Malik Bah 4) Jaren Kanak&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Boys Triple Jump Class 5A Kyreese Groen – 13th
40’7.50”

Boys Pole Vault Class 5A Tucker Veach – 7th 12’6”

Boys High Jump Class 5A Jordan&nbsp; Dale – 1st 6’4”

Girls Long Jump Class 5A Reanna Green – 3rd
16’10.50”

Boys Shot Put Class 5A Gaven Haselhorst – 3rd
49’11.25” Trey Adams – 4th
49’11”

Boys Javelin Throw Class 5A Bryce Salmans – 9th
150’4”

Girls 800 Meter Run Class 5A Amelia Jaeger – 13th 2:29.47&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Boys 300 Meter Hurdles Class 5A Gavin Meyers – 16th 44.98&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Girls 300 Meter Hurdles Class 5A Brooklyn Lewallen – 13th 49.65&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Boys Javelin Throw Class 5A Bryce Salmans Hays

Boys 200 Meter Dash Class 5A Finals* Jaren Kanak – 2nd 22.06&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Boys Long Jump Class 5A Jaren Kanak – 5th 20’11” Kyler Beckman – 8th 20’5” Kyreese Groen – 12th 19’7”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 5 and 6A state track and field meet starts at 8 a.m. Thursday.Listen to 101.9 The Bull for updates and check back with HaysPost for updated results throughout the day.CompletedGirls 100 Meter Hurdles Class 5A prelims Brooklyn Lewallen – 13th in prelims at 16.62Boys 100 Meter Dash
Class 5A prelims Jaren Kanak – 2nd best time in prelims (10.66). Qualifies for finals Malik Bah – 13th (11.38) Boys 100 Meter Dash
Class 5A Finals Jaren Kanak – 2nd 10.58Girls 200 Meter Dash&nbsp;Prelims&nbsp;Class 5A Lilian McGrath - &nbsp;15th 26.95



Girls Triple Jump Class 5A Re&nbsp; Green - &nbsp;5th 36’ 0.75”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Boys Discus Throw Class 5A Trey Adams – 2nd
178’7” Grayson Walburn – 10th 131’5”Boys 110 Meter Hurdles Prelims Class 5A TY Adams – 11th 16.78 Boys 200 Meter Dash Class 5A prelims Jaren Kanak – 2nd 22.24 - Qualifies for finals&nbsp;Girls 4x800 Meter Relay Class 5A Hays – 14th 10:22.85 1) Jaeger Amelia 2) Avery Winter 3Claire Shippy 4) Brenlynn Albers&nbsp; Girls 4x100 Meter Relay Class 5A Hays – DQ’d for zone violation 1) Brooklyn Lewallen 2) Landri Dotts 3) Lilian McGrath 4) Reanna Green&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Boys Triple Jump Class 5A |Kyreese Groen – 13th
40’7.50”Boys 4x100 Meter Relay Class 5A Hays – 3rd 43.67 1) Logan Casper 2) Bryce Salmans 3) Malik Bah 4) Jaren Kanak&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Boys Triple Jump Class 5A Kyreese Groen – 13th
40’7.50”Boys Pole Vault Class 5A Tucker Veach – 7th 12’6”Boys High Jump Class 5A Jordan&nbsp; Dale – 1st 6’4”Girls Long Jump Class 5A Reanna Green – 3rd
16’10.50”Boys Shot Put Class 5A Gaven Haselhorst – 3rd
49’11.25” Trey Adams – 4th
49’11” Boys Javelin Throw Class 5A Bryce Salmans – 9th
150’4”Girls 800 Meter Run Class 5A Amelia Jaeger – 13th 2:29.47&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Boys 300 Meter Hurdles Class 5A Gavin Meyers – 16th 44.98&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Girls 300 Meter Hurdles Class 5A Brooklyn Lewallen – 13th 49.65&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Boys Javelin Throw Class 5A Bryce Salmans Hays Boys 200 Meter Dash Class 5A Finals* Jaren Kanak – 2nd 22.06&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Boys Long Jump Class 5A Jaren Kanak – 5th 20’11” Kyler Beckman – 8th 20’5” Kyreese Groen – 12th 19’7”&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏃5A state track and field results

People may register and watch the presentations, learn new cooking tips, recipes and techniques, or create the meals at home.&nbsp;

Most of the chef's available times are between 2 and 4 p.m. when many people are working. Hays High School media students will film the chefs preparing the meals. Then, First Call for Help will share the link to view it later that day for the people who registered. This will allow them access to watch the presentation or fix the meals when they are ready.

People may register by calling Laura Shoaf at First Call For Help: 785-623-2800 or 785-259-3811.

Payments may also be mailed or brought into First Call For Help, 607 E. 13th St., 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You can also find more information on the <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help wesbsite</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty">Facebook page.</a>

June 30 is the last day First Call for Help can double the dollars from the Schmidt Foundation for First Step Housing.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="First Call for Help offers cooking classes as fundraiser" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fyund-104ad55-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621624316336.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>People may register and watch the presentations, learn new cooking tips, recipes and techniques, or create the meals at home.&nbsp;Most of the chef's available times are between 2 and 4 p.m. when many people are working. Hays High School media students will film the chefs preparing the meals. Then, First Call for Help will share the link to view it later that day for the people who registered. This will allow them access to watch the presentation or fix the meals when they are ready.People may register by calling Laura Shoaf at First Call For Help: 785-623-2800 or 785-259-3811.Payments may also be mailed or brought into First Call For Help, 607 E. 13th St., 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You can also find more information on the <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help wesbsite</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty">Facebook page.</a>June 30 is the last day First Call for Help can double the dollars from the Schmidt Foundation for First Step Housing.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: First Call for Help offers cooking classes as fundraiser

Updated 3:45 p.m. Wednesday: Hays is experiencing street flooding. A flash flood warning has been issued for Ellis County until 6:15 p.m.&nbsp;

Flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas,           highways, streets and underpasses as well as other           drainage and low lying areas. Some locations that will experience flash flooding include Hays, Ellis, Victoria, Yocemento, Munjor and Toulon.

Law enforcement is asking drivers not to cross flooded roadways. Substantial flooding has been reported south of Hays, according to law enforcement.&nbsp;

Barrier are being placed now on flooded roadways.

Hays had received about 2 inches of rain at the Eagle Media Center as of 4:14 p.m. with rain still falling.

UPDATED 3:26 p.m. Wednesday: A trained spotter has confirmed a tornado near the town of Munjor as the storm moves continues moving east. Another tornado was believed to have formed near the Rush and Ellis County line. A flash flood warning also remains in effect until 6:15 p.m. in Ellis County.

Another round of storms is expected to roll into Ellis County early Wednesday evening, bringing the chance of more rain, hail and possible tornadoes.

UPDATED 3:07 p.m. Wednesday: The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for northeastern Rush and southeastern Ellis counties until 3:45 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect until 3 p.m.

Wednesday afternoon's storm brought torrential rain and large hail with it.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for severe weather updates.

Photos by Kristy Pfeifer from the Eagle Media Center near 27th and Hall streets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622059803326.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Rhian Herl" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Rhian Herl</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622059835263.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Rhian Herl / Taken from 24th Street near Dillons on Hall Street." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Rhian Herl / Taken from 24th Street near Dillons on Hall Street.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622062394269.jpeg" alt="Flooding 13th and Allen Hays&nbsp;Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Flooding 13th and Allen Hays&nbsp;Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622062709667.jpeg" alt="Flooding Hays 13th and Oak. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Flooding Hays 13th and Oak. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Flooding</h2>Updated 3:45 p.m. Wednesday: Hays is experiencing street flooding. A flash flood warning has been issued for Ellis County until 6:15 p.m.&nbsp;Flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other drainage and low lying areas. Some locations that will experience flash flooding include Hays, Ellis, Victoria, Yocemento, Munjor and Toulon.Law enforcement is asking drivers not to cross flooded roadways. Substantial flooding has been reported south of Hays, according to law enforcement.&nbsp;Barrier are being placed now on flooded roadways.Hays had received about 2 inches of rain at the Eagle Media Center as of 4:14 p.m. with rain still falling.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622062918006.jpeg" alt="12th and Pine, Hays. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>12th and Pine, Hays. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622063197569.jpeg" alt="Hays flooding 11th and Allen. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays flooding 11th and Allen. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622063478505.jpeg" alt="14th and Oak, Hays. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>14th and Oak, Hays. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622064005995.jpeg" alt="Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, Hays.&nbsp;Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, Hays.&nbsp;Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED 3:26 p.m. Wednesday: A trained spotter has confirmed a tornado near the town of Munjor as the storm moves continues moving east. Another tornado was believed to have formed near the Rush and Ellis County line. A flash flood warning also remains in effect until 6:15 p.m. in Ellis County.Another round of storms is expected to roll into Ellis County early Wednesday evening, bringing the chance of more rain, hail and possible tornadoes.UPDATED 3:07 p.m. Wednesday: The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for northeastern Rush and southeastern Ellis counties until 3:45 p.m.A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect until 3 p.m.Wednesday afternoon's storm brought torrential rain and large hail with it.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for severe weather updates.Photos by Kristy Pfeifer from the Eagle Media Center near 27th and Hall streets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622058608141.jpeg" alt="" />
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UPDATE: Storm brings hail, heavy rain, tornado warnings, flash flooding

The first <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">Downtown Hays Market</a> is set to return Saturday morning, with many regular vendors ready to return and a mix of new vendors.

Beginning this week the market is scheduled from  7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through October 23 at the Downtown Pavilion in Union Pacific Park, 110 E 10th St.

"We are very excited. We have a ton of new vendors that have already signed up," said Downton Hays Development Corporation executive director Sara Bloom.

Those vendors will bring a wide variety of items to the market, from fresh produce, stained glass, custom handmade candles, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh honey and more.

"We have vendors coming from Nebraska. We have vendors coming from Missouri," Bloom said. "Of course, we have the same vendors that you know and love that will be coming back, like&nbsp;Svaty's Produce. Several new produce vendors have signed up. Several new craft vendors have signed up. ... There is going to be so much there this summer."

And while the season is likely to be bigger than ever, Bloom said the first market of the season brings with it a unique energy.

"The first market is one of my favorites. Everyone is just so excited for the season to get started that they come out in hoards," Bloom said.&nbsp;

She also said the end of a year of COVID-19 precautions will likely drive more people to the market as life returns to normal.

Attendees of the market this year will also be able to take advantage of all of the updates to the park and pavilion, including the newest addition a train sculpture from local artist Pete Felten.&nbsp;

"It's crazy. The pavilion has been there for two years now," Bloom said. "We keep improving the space. ... We added the parking lot and the Pete Felten train sculpture and security cameras last year, and we are continuing to look for ways we can build up that area because that really has become the primary gathering place for outdoor events on the Bricks," Bloom said. "It's been absolutely wonderful, and I&nbsp; hope the community is enjoying it."

For more information about the market visit the DHDC website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market">downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">visit their facebook page</a>.

<div><iframe title="Downtown Hays farmers market returns this weekend" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=cn86z-1049b57-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe first <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">Downtown Hays Market</a> is set to return Saturday morning, with many regular vendors ready to return and a mix of new vendors.Beginning this week the market is scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through October 23 at the Downtown Pavilion in Union Pacific Park, 110 E 10th St."We are very excited. We have a ton of new vendors that have already signed up," said Downton Hays Development Corporation executive director Sara Bloom.Those vendors will bring a wide variety of items to the market, from fresh produce, stained glass, custom handmade candles, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh honey and more."We have vendors coming from Nebraska. We have vendors coming from Missouri," Bloom said. "Of course, we have the same vendors that you know and love that will be coming back, like&nbsp;Svaty's Produce. Several new produce vendors have signed up. Several new craft vendors have signed up. ... There is going to be so much there this summer."And while the season is likely to be bigger than ever, Bloom said the first market of the season brings with it a unique energy."The first market is one of my favorites. Everyone is just so excited for the season to get started that they come out in hoards," Bloom said.&nbsp;She also said the end of a year of COVID-19 precautions will likely drive more people to the market as life returns to normal.Attendees of the market this year will also be able to take advantage of all of the updates to the park and pavilion, including the newest addition a train sculpture from local artist Pete Felten.&nbsp;"It's crazy. The pavilion has been there for two years now," Bloom said. "We keep improving the space. ... We added the parking lot and the Pete Felten train sculpture and security cameras last year, and we are continuing to look for ways we can build up that area because that really has become the primary gathering place for outdoor events on the Bricks," Bloom said. "It's been absolutely wonderful, and I&nbsp; hope the community is enjoying it."For more information about the market visit the DHDC website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market">downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">visit their facebook page</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FDowntownHaysMarket%2Fvideos%2F485632369434982%2F&show_text=false&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Downtown Hays Market returns this weekend

Post Rock Pet Boarding LLC of Hays, has been recognized as the 2021 Emerging Business of the
Year for the Kansas Small Business Development Center at Fort Hays State University.


In the summer of 2017, Heather Holliman-Pope and Kylie Sander noticed the Hays community had an
increasing demand for small animal boarding and found an opportunity to create a place that provided a
clean and comfortable environment.


“We designed and built our facility to specifically meet and exceed the needs of our boarders,” said
Holliman-Pope and Sander.


Holliman-Pope and Sander reached out to Rick Feltenberger, Regional Director for the Kansas SBDC at
Fort Hays State University, seeking assistance with business planning, real-world experiences and
financial advice.


“We feel like Rick [and the SBDC] offered us real life expectations, advice and encouragement to
succeed,” Sander said. “We continue to learn a tremendous amount about business and finance and feel
like Rick helped us develop a foundation that we can build on. As our business and world changes, we
have the resources and knowledge to change with it.”


Post Rock offers overnight housing for a variety of animals ranging from dogs to the occasional rabbit.
Other services include bathing, nail trims, and ear cleanings.


Post Rock Pet Boarding LLC is located at 3335 E. 13th Hays, Kansas. To learn more about Post Rock and
their services, visit their website at www.postrockpetboarding.com


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622036003542.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas SBDCPost Rock Pet Boarding LLC of Hays, has been recognized as the 2021 Emerging Business of the
Year for the Kansas Small Business Development Center at Fort Hays State University.
In the summer of 2017, Heather Holliman-Pope and Kylie Sander noticed the Hays community had an
increasing demand for small animal boarding and found an opportunity to create a place that provided a
clean and comfortable environment.
“We designed and built our facility to specifically meet and exceed the needs of our boarders,” said
Holliman-Pope and Sander.
Holliman-Pope and Sander reached out to Rick Feltenberger, Regional Director for the Kansas SBDC at
Fort Hays State University, seeking assistance with business planning, real-world experiences and
financial advice.
“We feel like Rick [and the SBDC] offered us real life expectations, advice and encouragement to
succeed,” Sander said. “We continue to learn a tremendous amount about business and finance and feel
like Rick helped us develop a foundation that we can build on. As our business and world changes, we
have the resources and knowledge to change with it.”
Post Rock offers overnight housing for a variety of animals ranging from dogs to the occasional rabbit.
Other services include bathing, nail trims, and ear cleanings.
Post Rock Pet Boarding LLC is located at 3335 E. 13th Hays, Kansas. To learn more about Post Rock and
their services, visit their website at www.postrockpetboarding.com

Post Rock Pet Boarding recognized as a 2021 Emerging Business of the Year

Online sale date is June 1 for Kansas Biggest Rodeo

PHILLIPSBURG — Online tickets go on sale Tuesday, June 1 at 8 a.m. for the 92nd&nbsp;annual Kansas Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg. The website to purchase tickets is&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>.

This is the second year for tickets to be offered online, and it’s gone well, said committee chairman JD Shelton.

“We had a good response to the online sales last year,” he said. “It’s convenient for people and makes it easy for out-of-town people to buy tickets.”

The rodeo takes place August 5-7 at the rodeo grounds north of Phillipsburg.

Specialty act for this year is Tricked Out Trick Riders, featuring the Navarre girls. Dusta Kimzey O’Connell is the main trick rider for the Tricked Out company; the Navarre girls are Shyla and Layna, the daughters of Corey and Melissa (Riddle) Navarre.

Barrelman for this year’s rodeo is Justin Rumford. This will be Rumford’s third time as a rodeo clown in Phillipsburg; he is a seven-time PRCA Clown of the Year Award winner.

Randy Corley will call the play-by-play action as rodeo announcer, and Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. will provide the bucking horses and bulls.

Tickets will go on sale in person on July 1 at Heritage Insurance (785 Third Street, Phillipsburg). They can be purchased in person and over the phone with a credit card (785.543.2448).&nbsp;

A convenience fee of $1.25 and a credit card charge is applied to all tickets purchased by credit and debit card, whether they are purchased online and in person or over the phone at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg.&nbsp;

This year’s rodeo will be held August 5-7 in Phillipsburg and begins at 8 pm each night. Ticket prices for reserved seating are $19 for adults and $15 for children. General admission tickets for Thursday, August 5 are $16 for adults and $12 for children. General admission tickets for Fri., August 6 and Sat., August 7 are $17 for adults and $13 for children. Children ages 3-12 can receive the discount children price.&nbsp;

Thursday, August 5 is Family Night at the rodeo, with all kids ages 10 and under receiving a free ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621865600180.jpeg" alt="A bull rider attempts an eight second ride at the 2020 Phillipsburg (Kan.) rodeo. Tickets go on sale online June 1 at <a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">www.kansasbiggestrodeo.com</a>. Photo courtesy Terri Abrahamson. " />
 <figcaption>A bull rider attempts an eight second ride at the 2020 Phillipsburg (Kan.) rodeo. Tickets go on sale online June 1 at <a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">www.kansasbiggestrodeo.com</a>. Photo courtesy Terri Abrahamson. </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Online sale date is June 1 for Kansas Biggest Rodeo</h2>PHILLIPSBURG — Online tickets go on sale Tuesday, June 1 at 8 a.m. for the 92nd&nbsp;annual Kansas Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg. The website to purchase tickets is&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>.This is the second year for tickets to be offered online, and it’s gone well, said committee chairman JD Shelton.“We had a good response to the online sales last year,” he said. “It’s convenient for people and makes it easy for out-of-town people to buy tickets.”The rodeo takes place August 5-7 at the rodeo grounds north of Phillipsburg.Specialty act for this year is Tricked Out Trick Riders, featuring the Navarre girls. Dusta Kimzey O’Connell is the main trick rider for the Tricked Out company; the Navarre girls are Shyla and Layna, the daughters of Corey and Melissa (Riddle) Navarre.Barrelman for this year’s rodeo is Justin Rumford. This will be Rumford’s third time as a rodeo clown in Phillipsburg; he is a seven-time PRCA Clown of the Year Award winner.Randy Corley will call the play-by-play action as rodeo announcer, and Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. will provide the bucking horses and bulls.Tickets will go on sale in person on July 1 at Heritage Insurance (785 Third Street, Phillipsburg). They can be purchased in person and over the phone with a credit card (785.543.2448).&nbsp;A convenience fee of $1.25 and a credit card charge is applied to all tickets purchased by credit and debit card, whether they are purchased online and in person or over the phone at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg.&nbsp;This year’s rodeo will be held August 5-7 in Phillipsburg and begins at 8 pm each night. Ticket prices for reserved seating are $19 for adults and $15 for children. General admission tickets for Thursday, August 5 are $16 for adults and $12 for children. General admission tickets for Fri., August 6 and Sat., August 7 are $17 for adults and $13 for children. Children ages 3-12 can receive the discount children price.&nbsp;Thursday, August 5 is Family Night at the rodeo, with all kids ages 10 and under receiving a free ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.

Tickets set to go on sale for Phillipsburg rodeo

Three-day weather outlook

They’re tiny and slow moving, and this spring’s cool, humid weather across the central Plains has been to their liking, so anyone spending time outdoors needs to be on the lookout for ticks.&nbsp;

The wingless parasites, which feed exclusively on human and animal blood, can carry dangerous microbial pathogens and are difficult to control for several reasons.&nbsp;

They make babies – a lot of them. After mating, the adult female American dog tick feeds on her human or animal host until engorged, then drops off and deposits eggs in the environment. She dies after she deposits her eggs, but those egg masses typically number in the thousands from just one female. Males feed sparingly and do not engorge. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

There are multiple tick species, and they can live up to two years, plus they can feed on numerous wildlife or human hosts.&nbsp;

Ticks are most commonly found just a few inches or feet off the ground on vegetation and typically ambush their human or animal “hosts,” as they look for a meal by crawling onto grass, weeds, or low bushes and waiting for a host to brush against the vegetation. They then move onto the host to look for a site to attach and feed. Ticks do not jump or drop from trees, Whitworth said.&nbsp;

If not engorged, American dog ticks are typically only about one-eighth of an inch long. If engorged, they increase in size up to three-quarters of an inch.&nbsp;

To protect against ticks, avoid going into tall grass, weeds and brushy areas, Whitworth said. For those who do go into such areas, light-colored clothing can help you see ticks before they reach the skin. Repellents based on DEET (N,N diethyl-meta-toluamide) and permethrin work well in keeping ticks and mosquitoes away. Permethrin-based repellents must not be applied directly to skin.&nbsp;

After coming home from potentially tick-infested areas, inspect your skin, and remove ticks immediately. Ticks removed within several hours after attachment are unlikely to transmit pathogens.&nbsp;

If a tick has already attached itself, remove it manually by grasping as close to the skin as possible with forceps or tweezers, and pull straight away from the skin, using slow, steady pressure. The tick should not be twisted or jerked out, as that increases the chance for its head to be left in the skin. Do not use a lighted match or cover the tick in petroleum jelly or nail polish.&nbsp;

Ticks removed from people should be saved in a vial with alcohol and labeled with the date. If flu-like symptoms, such as headache, skin rash and fever occur 10 to 14 days after the tick’s removal, see a physician immediately, and take the tick with you. If in Kansas, send it to the local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;

Chemical pesticides targeting ticks and mites are called acaricides. They should be used only in areas with chronic tick problems.&nbsp;

More information about ticks in Kansas is available through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/vhc/docs/ticks-in-kansas.pdf">Kansas State University publication available online</a>.&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>They’re tiny and slow moving, and this spring’s cool, humid weather across the central Plains has been to their liking, so anyone spending time outdoors needs to be on the lookout for ticks.&nbsp;The wingless parasites, which feed exclusively on human and animal blood, can carry dangerous microbial pathogens and are difficult to control for several reasons.&nbsp;They make babies – a lot of them. After mating, the adult female American dog tick feeds on her human or animal host until engorged, then drops off and deposits eggs in the environment. She dies after she deposits her eggs, but those egg masses typically number in the thousands from just one female. Males feed sparingly and do not engorge. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There are multiple tick species, and they can live up to two years, plus they can feed on numerous wildlife or human hosts.&nbsp;Ticks are most commonly found just a few inches or feet off the ground on vegetation and typically ambush their human or animal “hosts,” as they look for a meal by crawling onto grass, weeds, or low bushes and waiting for a host to brush against the vegetation. They then move onto the host to look for a site to attach and feed. Ticks do not jump or drop from trees, Whitworth said.&nbsp;If not engorged, American dog ticks are typically only about one-eighth of an inch long. If engorged, they increase in size up to three-quarters of an inch.&nbsp;To protect against ticks, avoid going into tall grass, weeds and brushy areas, Whitworth said. For those who do go into such areas, light-colored clothing can help you see ticks before they reach the skin. Repellents based on DEET (N,N diethyl-meta-toluamide) and permethrin work well in keeping ticks and mosquitoes away. Permethrin-based repellents must not be applied directly to skin.&nbsp;After coming home from potentially tick-infested areas, inspect your skin, and remove ticks immediately. Ticks removed within several hours after attachment are unlikely to transmit pathogens.&nbsp;If a tick has already attached itself, remove it manually by grasping as close to the skin as possible with forceps or tweezers, and pull straight away from the skin, using slow, steady pressure. The tick should not be twisted or jerked out, as that increases the chance for its head to be left in the skin. Do not use a lighted match or cover the tick in petroleum jelly or nail polish.&nbsp;Ticks removed from people should be saved in a vial with alcohol and labeled with the date. If flu-like symptoms, such as headache, skin rash and fever occur 10 to 14 days after the tick’s removal, see a physician immediately, and take the tick with you. If in Kansas, send it to the local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;Chemical pesticides targeting ticks and mites are called acaricides. They should be used only in areas with chronic tick problems.&nbsp;More information about ticks in Kansas is available through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/vhc/docs/ticks-in-kansas.pdf">Kansas State University publication available online</a>.&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Be on the lookout for ticks

Supporting the healthy development of the young child’s brain is both a tremendous opportunity and an awesome responsibility. Children birth to age 3 and their parents are invited to Brainy Babies at the Hays Public Library on Tuesdays June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 at 6 pm each evening.&nbsp;

The interactive series encourages and stimulates learning while enhancing the relationship between adult and child. A very short program will include what adults can do to support brain development and how play builds connections in the brain. The remainder of the time is for interaction between children and parents.&nbsp;

	There are many things that can be done to support a child’s healthy brain development, beginning before birth and continuing until the child is an adult. Parents, grandparents and other adults play a very important role in helping ensure healthy brain development.

The developing brain needs two basics: safety and positive experiences. Parents who want to support their babies’ brain development should remember these two rules. Number one is to create a safe environment. It is the responsibility of the parent to make sure the baby is safe and not under stress. Consistency is key. If there is a predictable schedule, the baby will know there is someone there for them and they will feel safe.&nbsp;

The second basic need is positive, enriching experiences. The brain learns best when it is challenged with new information and then relates the new information to what the child already knows. Exposing your baby to new things helps the brain strengthen old connections and make new ones.

Simple things such as talking to your baby and interacting face-to-face builds the brain connections needed for both language skills and a healthy emotional bond. Read to your baby beginning at birth. Hearing adults read helps the brain develop language connections. It also gives parents and babies a chance to spend time together.&nbsp;

Please plan to join Amy Lucio, Hays Public Library Early Literacy Coordinator and me in the children’s section of the Hays Public Library on Tuesday, June 1 at 6 pm for our first session of Brainy Babies.&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Supporting the healthy development of the young child’s brain is both a tremendous opportunity and an awesome responsibility. Children birth to age 3 and their parents are invited to Brainy Babies at the Hays Public Library on Tuesdays June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 at 6 pm each evening.&nbsp;The interactive series encourages and stimulates learning while enhancing the relationship between adult and child. A very short program will include what adults can do to support brain development and how play builds connections in the brain. The remainder of the time is for interaction between children and parents.&nbsp;	There are many things that can be done to support a child’s healthy brain development, beginning before birth and continuing until the child is an adult. Parents, grandparents and other adults play a very important role in helping ensure healthy brain development.The developing brain needs two basics: safety and positive experiences. Parents who want to support their babies’ brain development should remember these two rules. Number one is to create a safe environment. It is the responsibility of the parent to make sure the baby is safe and not under stress. Consistency is key. If there is a predictable schedule, the baby will know there is someone there for them and they will feel safe.&nbsp;The second basic need is positive, enriching experiences. The brain learns best when it is challenged with new information and then relates the new information to what the child already knows. Exposing your baby to new things helps the brain strengthen old connections and make new ones.Simple things such as talking to your baby and interacting face-to-face builds the brain connections needed for both language skills and a healthy emotional bond. Read to your baby beginning at birth. Hearing adults read helps the brain develop language connections. It also gives parents and babies a chance to spend time together.&nbsp;Please plan to join Amy Lucio, Hays Public Library Early Literacy Coordinator and me in the children’s section of the Hays Public Library on Tuesday, June 1 at 6 pm for our first session of Brainy Babies.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Brainy babies

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for a wide swath of northwest Kansas into the early morning hours Thursday.

Widespread hail — up to softball-sized — is likely, as well as wind gusts up to 75 mph.&nbsp;

Several strong tornadoes are also predicted with the storm, the NWS said.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622065333989.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622066344603.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for a wide swath of northwest Kansas into the early morning hours Thursday.Widespread hail — up to softball-sized — is likely, as well as wind gusts up to 75 mph.&nbsp;Several strong tornadoes are also predicted with the storm, the NWS said.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622066268785.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Tornado watch issued for NW Kan. into Thursday morning

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

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

As of Wednesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, one active and two recovering.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,751 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622052611866.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Wednesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, one active and two recovering.Since reporting began, there have been 3,751 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: One new virus case in Ellis Co. since Monday

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The deadline for candidates to file for this year’s city and
school board election is quickly approaching.

There are a number of positions up for election later this
year but only a handful of candidates have filed the paperwork and paid the $20
fee with the county election office.

The candidate filing deadline is noon on June 1. The primary
election is set for Aug. 3 with the general election Nov. 2.

There are three seats up for election on the Hays City
Commission. Two of the positions are four-year terms and one two-year term.

As of Wednesday morning, only three candidates had filed for
Hays City Commission — incumbent Shaun Musil, along with Samuel Allen
and Reese Barrick.

Three positions are up for election on the Ellis City
Council. Three people have filed so far. Those candidates are incumbents John Walz,
Tricia Pritchett and Devin Henderson.

There are five positions up for election on the Schoenchen
City Council. The two candidates that have filed for far are incumbents Kyle
Zimmerman and Federick Follmer.

Three positions are up for election on the Victoria City
County. Incumbent Harland Rupp is the only candidate that has filed at this
time.

The Hays USD 489 school board has three are large positions
up for election this far. Two people have filed so far. Those candidates are Casey
Herrman and Thomas Wasinger.

Ellis USD 388 also has three at large positions up for
election but as a Wednesday morning no candidates have filed for the positions.

Ellis incumbent Mayor David McDaniel is the only candidate
for file for the position.

Victoria Mayor John Schulte has filed for re-election and is
the only candidate to file so far.

Ellis City Treasurer Faith Scheck is the only candidate who has filed for the position.

In Schoechen, Kevin Bieker is the only candidate who has
filed for Mayor.

There are two board positions up for election on the Cottonwood
Extension District. Kathleen Huser and Donna Maskus have filed for those two
spots.

There are also three director positions available on each
the Big Creek, Munjor, Prairie Acres and Suburban Estates Improvement
Districts.

Casey Herrman and Duane Kuhn have filed for the Big Creek
Improvement District.

You can find a full list of positions and candidates below:

Ellis City Mayor - 1 position David R McDaniel

Ellis City Treasurer - 1 position Faith A Scheck

Ellis City Councilmember - 3 at large positions John A Walz Tricia L Pritchett Devin D Henderson

Hays City Commission Samuel E Allen Shaun Musil Reese E Barrick

Schoenchen Mayor - 1 position Kevin Bieker

Schoenchen City Councilmember - 5 Positions&nbsp; Kyle Zimmerman Federick H Follmer

Victoria City Mayor - 1 position John Schulte

Victoria Councilmember - 3 positions Harland E Rupp

USD 489 - 3 at-large positions Casey F Herrman Thomas M Wasinger

Big Creek Improvement District - 3 Director positions Casey F Herrman Duane F Kuhn

Munjor Improvement District - 3 Director positions

Prairie Acres Improvement District - 3 Director positions

Suburban Estates Improvement District - 3 Director positions

Cottonwood Extension District #17 - 2 board positions Kathleen Huser Donna J Maskus

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe deadline for candidates to file for this year’s city and
school board election is quickly approaching.There are a number of positions up for election later this
year but only a handful of candidates have filed the paperwork and paid the $20
fee with the county election office.The candidate filing deadline is noon on June 1. The primary
election is set for Aug. 3 with the general election Nov. 2.There are three seats up for election on the Hays City
Commission. Two of the positions are four-year terms and one two-year term.As of Wednesday morning, only three candidates had filed for
Hays City Commission — incumbent Shaun Musil, along with Samuel Allen
and Reese Barrick.Three positions are up for election on the Ellis City
Council. Three people have filed so far. Those candidates are incumbents John Walz,
Tricia Pritchett and Devin Henderson.There are five positions up for election on the Schoenchen
City Council. The two candidates that have filed for far are incumbents Kyle
Zimmerman and Federick Follmer.Three positions are up for election on the Victoria City
County. Incumbent Harland Rupp is the only candidate that has filed at this
time.The Hays USD 489 school board has three are large positions
up for election this far. Two people have filed so far. Those candidates are Casey
Herrman and Thomas Wasinger.Ellis USD 388 also has three at large positions up for
election but as a Wednesday morning no candidates have filed for the positions.Ellis incumbent Mayor David McDaniel is the only candidate
for file for the position.Victoria Mayor John Schulte has filed for re-election and is
the only candidate to file so far.Ellis City Treasurer Faith Scheck is the only candidate who has filed for the position.In Schoechen, Kevin Bieker is the only candidate who has
filed for Mayor.There are two board positions up for election on the Cottonwood
Extension District. Kathleen Huser and Donna Maskus have filed for those two
spots.There are also three director positions available on each
the Big Creek, Munjor, Prairie Acres and Suburban Estates Improvement
Districts.Casey Herrman and Duane Kuhn have filed for the Big Creek
Improvement District.You can find a full list of positions and candidates below:Ellis City Mayor - 1 position David R McDanielEllis City Treasurer - 1 position Faith A ScheckEllis City Councilmember - 3 at large positions John A Walz Tricia L Pritchett Devin D HendersonHays City Commission Samuel E Allen Shaun Musil Reese E BarrickSchoenchen Mayor - 1 position Kevin BiekerSchoenchen City Councilmember - 5 Positions&nbsp; Kyle Zimmerman Federick H FollmerVictoria City Mayor - 1 position John SchulteVictoria Councilmember - 3 positions Harland E RuppUSD 388 - 3 at large positionsUSD 489 - 3 at-large positions Casey F Herrman Thomas M WasingerBig Creek Improvement District - 3 Director positions Casey F Herrman Duane F KuhnMunjor Improvement District - 3 Director positionsPrairie Acres Improvement District - 3 Director positionsSuburban Estates Improvement District - 3 Director positionsCottonwood Extension District #17 - 2 board positions Kathleen Huser Donna J Maskus

Candidate filing deadline June 1

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

"It's a very hot topic in the state of Kansas," according to Collin Bielser, Hays asst. city manager, who recently presented a report to city commissioners about the growing use of&nbsp;Rural Housing Incentive Districts (RHIDs) in the state.&nbsp;

Earlier this year the Kansas legislature approved a bill expanding a rural development program to address housing needs and revitalize downtowns.

The change to RHIDs now allows renovations&nbsp;on the second floor or higher of buildings located in central business areas&nbsp;in any city or county in Kansas with a population smaller than 60,000.

The buildings must be at least 25 years old and the renovations must be for residential housing. Cost of such RHID projects would be covered by the incremental increase in property tax value.

City commissioners have begun discussing possible changes to the Hays RHID policy to reflect the change in the state's policy. Bielser said Dodge City, Garden City and Pittsburg are all using RHIDs to build more affordable housing.&nbsp;

The state also requires housing created with an RHID to be identified as a need in a housing study. 

Hays' latest housing study from the Fort Hays State University Docking Institute was conducted in 2017. An updated needs analysis should be completed by Docking at the end of September, according to City Manager Toby Dougherty.&nbsp;

Grow Hays released its own <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8d6a6933-5aab-4ba4-bd4d-610232d83162">housing report in April</a>. The findings were shared with city commissioners.&nbsp;

The RHID policy for the city of Hays was created in 2013 and intended for higher density,&nbsp;income qualified and low-income&nbsp;housing.

City commissioners &nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2a5a257d7daa72b30eba32">modified the policy in 2020</a>&nbsp;to allow not-for-profit developers&nbsp;to utilize RHIDs for single-family homes.

To date, the sole RHID in Hays is located near the intersection of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66af44cc-f075-4270-88d1-65f0c09e5070">Wheatland and 22nd</a>, spearheaded by Heart of America, a non-profit&nbsp; investment consortium in Ellis County. Doug Williams, exec. director of Grow Hays, the economic development organization for Hays and Ellis County, is overseeing the project.

The RHID is in effect for 25 years.&nbsp;

Under Hays' current policy, the developer has a 100% stake in the land and infrastructure and&nbsp;assumes 100% of the financial risk. There is no financial risk to the city.&nbsp;

There is an incentive for the developer to sell the lots and build homes quickly because they are only reimbursed for&nbsp;development costs if there are homes to tax.&nbsp;

The city of Hays and Ellis County forgo 100% of their&nbsp;property tax increments&nbsp; during the term of the RHID.&nbsp;The Hays school district, USD 489, forgoes all but&nbsp;the state-issued 20 mills.

"I guess that's where 'tax delay' is better than 'no tax now'," said Mason Ruder, commissioner.

"You have a 40-acre piece that's sitting there that gets the county $600 a year in taxes. Then you develop it. Now you have 168 units that brings in $33,000 a year in property tax. It's delayed, yeah, but at what point do you not offer these incentives to grow?"&nbsp; &nbsp;

Commissioner Shaun Musil, owner of&nbsp;Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in downtown Hays, said "you can't grow your business if you don't have employees to work. Everybody is struggling. ... We need more people in this town. If this is what would make that work, I think we need to have it."

"We're looking at the chicken and the egg," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor. "Mr. Williams and I have this conversation all the time. If we don't have the housing, we don't have anything. But we need people to go in the housing."

Commissioner Ron Mellick said he met awhile back with Ron Wilson, USD 489 superintendent, who told Mellick he wants student numbers to keep growing.&nbsp;

"[Wilson] wasn't speaking for the school board, but said he was more concerned about delaying their tax revenue as to getting more students," Mellick related.

"It's all the taxpayers that are subsidizing this," Mellick said. "It's one thing to give up city revenue, but what about the school district and the county? Would it affect the fair board, extension services? We have a lot of things to look at," he added.&nbsp;

Ellis County Commissioner Neal Younger was in the audience but made no comment.&nbsp;

Williams told commissioners he believes the housing problem in Hays is a bigger immediate threat to the community than is the water situation.

"We're okay right now with the water. We've had enough rain. I get the long-term implications. But these [RHIDs] are real, and they're right now.

"Housing and workforce tie very closely together and certainly we have a huge workforce problem right now.&nbsp;

"I think it's a bet whether [housing] would develop with or without an RHID. I think the cost of development has gotten to the point where you're not going to see a lot of private developers do it," Williams said.&nbsp;

Several local realtors and developers attended the May 6 city commission work session in which the RHID discussion began.

Robert Readle, Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, supports expanding the city's RHID policy.

"I look at it as though the Kansas legislature has created a mechanism that gives opportunities to everyone in Kansas and our local government has chosen to limit those opportunities," Readle said.

The city commission had a second in-depth discussion of the RHID policy last week and will do so again in June.&nbsp;

RELATED: Gov. Laura Kelly announces the state's first <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/879ea851-587f-4de9-a3b4-4b87c0469939">housing needs assessment</a> in 27 years&nbsp;

Kansas <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a4aa7cf7-073a-4df4-99f9-437be5539e7d">lieutenant governor recognizes need for housing</a> during Hays visit

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621979683487.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners are in discussions about possible expansion of the RHID policy. It was created in 2013 and intended for higher density, income qualified and low-income housing. In 2020, the policy was modified to allow not-for-profit developers&nbsp;to utilize RHIDs for single-family homes. The state now allows Rural Housing Incentive Districts to be established in business districts.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners are in discussions about possible expansion of the RHID policy. It was created in 2013 and intended for higher density, income qualified and low-income housing. In 2020, the policy was modified to allow not-for-profit developers&nbsp;to utilize RHIDs for single-family homes. The state now allows Rural Housing Incentive Districts to be established in business districts.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"It's a very hot topic in the state of Kansas," according to Collin Bielser, Hays asst. city manager, who recently presented a report to city commissioners about the growing use of&nbsp;Rural Housing Incentive Districts (RHIDs) in the state.&nbsp;Earlier this year the Kansas legislature approved a bill expanding a rural development program to address housing needs and revitalize downtowns.The change to RHIDs now allows renovations&nbsp;on the second floor or higher of buildings located in central business areas&nbsp;in any city or county in Kansas with a population smaller than 60,000.The buildings must be at least 25 years old and the renovations must be for residential housing. Cost of such RHID projects would be covered by the incremental increase in property tax value.City commissioners have begun discussing possible changes to the Hays RHID policy to reflect the change in the state's policy. Bielser said Dodge City, Garden City and Pittsburg are all using RHIDs to build more affordable housing.&nbsp;The state also requires housing created with an RHID to be identified as a need in a housing study. Hays' latest housing study from the Fort Hays State University Docking Institute was conducted in 2017. An updated needs analysis should be completed by Docking at the end of September, according to City Manager Toby Dougherty.&nbsp;Grow Hays released its own <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8d6a6933-5aab-4ba4-bd4d-610232d83162">housing report in April</a>. The findings were shared with city commissioners.&nbsp;The RHID policy for the city of Hays was created in 2013 and intended for higher density,&nbsp;income qualified and low-income&nbsp;housing.City commissioners &nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e2a5a257d7daa72b30eba32">modified the policy in 2020</a>&nbsp;to allow not-for-profit developers&nbsp;to utilize RHIDs for single-family homes.To date, the sole RHID in Hays is located near the intersection of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66af44cc-f075-4270-88d1-65f0c09e5070">Wheatland and 22nd</a>, spearheaded by Heart of America, a non-profit&nbsp; investment consortium in Ellis County. Doug Williams, exec. director of Grow Hays, the economic development organization for Hays and Ellis County, is overseeing the project.The RHID is in effect for 25 years.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621974126660.jpeg" alt="The proposed development by Grow Hays for 75 affordable houses to be built directly east of NCK Technical College is currently the only RHID in Hays." />
 <figcaption>The proposed development by Grow Hays for 75 affordable houses to be built directly east of NCK Technical College is currently the only RHID in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>Under Hays' current policy, the developer has a 100% stake in the land and infrastructure and&nbsp;assumes 100% of the financial risk. There is no financial risk to the city.&nbsp;There is an incentive for the developer to sell the lots and build homes quickly because they are only reimbursed for&nbsp;development costs if there are homes to tax.&nbsp;The city of Hays and Ellis County forgo 100% of their&nbsp;property tax increments&nbsp; during the term of the RHID.&nbsp;The Hays school district, USD 489, forgoes all but&nbsp;the state-issued 20 mills."I guess that's where 'tax delay' is better than 'no tax now'," said Mason Ruder, commissioner."You have a 40-acre piece that's sitting there that gets the county $600 a year in taxes. Then you develop it. Now you have 168 units that brings in $33,000 a year in property tax. It's delayed, yeah, but at what point do you not offer these incentives to grow?"&nbsp; &nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil, owner of&nbsp;Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market in downtown Hays, said "you can't grow your business if you don't have employees to work. Everybody is struggling. ... We need more people in this town. If this is what would make that work, I think we need to have it.""We're looking at the chicken and the egg," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor. "Mr. Williams and I have this conversation all the time. If we don't have the housing, we don't have anything. But we need people to go in the housing."<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Apy1PbNakN4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioner Ron Mellick said he met awhile back with Ron Wilson, USD 489 superintendent, who told Mellick he wants student numbers to keep growing.&nbsp; "[Wilson] wasn't speaking for the school board, but said he was more concerned about delaying their tax revenue as to getting more students," Mellick related."It's all the taxpayers that are subsidizing this," Mellick said. "It's one thing to give up city revenue, but what about the school district and the county? Would it affect the fair board, extension services? We have a lot of things to look at," he added.&nbsp;Ellis County Commissioner Neal Younger was in the audience but made no comment.&nbsp;Williams told commissioners he believes the housing problem in Hays is a bigger immediate threat to the community than is the water situation."We're okay right now with the water. We've had enough rain. I get the long-term implications. But these [RHIDs] are real, and they're right now."Housing and workforce tie very closely together and certainly we have a huge workforce problem right now.&nbsp;"I think it's a bet whether [housing] would develop with or without an RHID. I think the cost of development has gotten to the point where you're not going to see a lot of private developers do it," Williams said.&nbsp;Several local realtors and developers attended the May 6 city commission work session in which the RHID discussion began.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621979339201.jpeg" alt="Robert Readle, Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, wants Hays to expand its use of RHIDs." />
 <figcaption>Robert Readle, Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, wants Hays to expand its use of RHIDs.</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Readle, Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, supports expanding the city's RHID policy."I look at it as though the Kansas legislature has created a mechanism that gives opportunities to everyone in Kansas and our local government has chosen to limit those opportunities," Readle said.The city commission had a second in-depth discussion of the RHID policy last week and will do so again in June.&nbsp;RELATED: Gov. Laura Kelly announces the state's first <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/879ea851-587f-4de9-a3b4-4b87c0469939">housing needs assessment</a> in 27 years&nbsp;Kansas <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a4aa7cf7-073a-4df4-99f9-437be5539e7d">lieutenant governor recognizes need for housing</a> during Hays visit&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥 City commission considers expanding RHID policy to address housing situation

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Cottonwood Extension District Agent Lauren Fick shares tick and mosquito bite prevention tips.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Stay safe this summer with these mosquito and tick prevention tips" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7tce5-10496bf-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Cottonwood Extension District Agent Lauren Fick shares tick and mosquito bite prevention tips.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Stay safe this summer with these mosquito and tick prevention tips

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for Country View Mobile Home Park public water supply system located in Ellis County. This advisory does not affect customers of the City of Hays public water supply system. This advisory is not related to COVID-19.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on May 26 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a failure in the disinfection equipment, which may lead to bacterial contamination.

Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for Country View Mobile Home Park public water supply system located in Ellis County. This advisory does not affect customers of the City of Hays public water supply system. This advisory is not related to COVID-19.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on May 26 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a failure in the disinfection equipment, which may lead to bacterial contamination.Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage</a>.Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov" target="_blank">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

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