Elections work best when campaigns highlight policy contrasts for voters. As the Republican primary for Senate in Kansas closes, this election has been a missed opportunity to discuss policy and force candidates on record about their policy views.&nbsp;

On the issues that have received the most campaign attention, meaningful policy differences between the major Republican candidates—Bob Hamilton, Kris Kobach, and Roger Marshall—just aren’t there. Abortion, LGBT rights, guns, or masks, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In focusing on areas of consensus, the campaign has missed an opportunity to actually clarify the choice for voters. What are candidate differences on other matters where past statements or actions suggest disagreement? Are there policy differences on issues that the campaign has not highlighted?&nbsp;

Many people thought Marshall was a moderate when he first went to Congress. He ousted ultra conservative Representative Tim Huelskamp in 2016. Many of the same folks who championed moderate Republicans in that year’s anti-Sam Brownback wave also reveled in Marshall’s win.&nbsp;

But, Marshall has shown that he is more conservative than many thought. The most moderate thing about him may be that he seems a reliable vote for Republican leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If most Republicans are supporting a compromise spending bill, for example, Marshall seems to follow leadership on those votes, rather than casting an ideological protest vote or opting for unrealistic conservative fiscal policy as many very conservative House Republicans sometimes do. This seems to be what earns Marshall his less than perfect ratings from groups like Club for Growth or American Conservative Union.&nbsp;

That is a substantive point that this campaign has glossed over. The DC Republican “establishment” prefers Marshall over Kobach, judging from statements and PAC spending. Would Kobach act differently than Marshall? Would he play nice with Republican leaders on fiscal votes and more, or would he be a conservative headache for them like Huelskamp often was?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Immigration is another area of potential difference that has been underplayed. This issue is central to Kobach’s brand. He is about as conservative on immigration as possible, and has been an immigration advisor to President Trump.&nbsp;

In Congress, Marshall has supported Trump on immigration, but past statements suggest Marshall is more moderate here. Regarding undocumented immigrants, he told the&nbsp;Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;in 2015: "There has to be a pathway to at least have a job. I'm not ready to jump on the amnesty bandwagon just yet, but we need to find a way to get these people into the system." Marshall added: “"We make it so hard for good people to become citizens.”&nbsp;

This is a difference worth more attention than it has gotten, especially on a major issue that will outlast the Trump presidency.&nbsp;

Beyond that, think about all of the issues where this campaign hasn’t clearly explored candidate positions, especially for Kobach and Hamilton who lack legislative records. Russia. NATO. Free trade. Health care policy. Covid policy. Numerous civil liberties issues. Energy. Platitudes aren’t policy.&nbsp;

Is it unfortunate that this primary hasn’t treated Kansas voters to a deeper conversation about issues. Instead, we get sexy filler and symbolism. Did Marshall get special treatment from prosecutors in his 2008 conviction? Is Kobach electable or tied to white nationalists? Is Hamilton secretly pro-transgender? If you’re a Kansas Republican looking for more, don’t feel bad if you’re still hungry come primary day.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593101597372.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Elections work best when campaigns highlight policy contrasts for voters. As the Republican primary for Senate in Kansas closes, this election has been a missed opportunity to discuss policy and force candidates on record about their policy views.&nbsp;On the issues that have received the most campaign attention, meaningful policy differences between the major Republican candidates—Bob Hamilton, Kris Kobach, and Roger Marshall—just aren’t there. Abortion, LGBT rights, guns, or masks, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;In focusing on areas of consensus, the campaign has missed an opportunity to actually clarify the choice for voters. What are candidate differences on other matters where past statements or actions suggest disagreement? Are there policy differences on issues that the campaign has not highlighted?&nbsp;Many people thought Marshall was a moderate when he first went to Congress. He ousted ultra conservative Representative Tim Huelskamp in 2016. Many of the same folks who championed moderate Republicans in that year’s anti-Sam Brownback wave also reveled in Marshall’s win.&nbsp;But, Marshall has shown that he is more conservative than many thought. The most moderate thing about him may be that he seems a reliable vote for Republican leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;If most Republicans are supporting a compromise spending bill, for example, Marshall seems to follow leadership on those votes, rather than casting an ideological protest vote or opting for unrealistic conservative fiscal policy as many very conservative House Republicans sometimes do. This seems to be what earns Marshall his less than perfect ratings from groups like Club for Growth or American Conservative Union.&nbsp;That is a substantive point that this campaign has glossed over. The DC Republican “establishment” prefers Marshall over Kobach, judging from statements and PAC spending. Would Kobach act differently than Marshall? Would he play nice with Republican leaders on fiscal votes and more, or would he be a conservative headache for them like Huelskamp often was?&nbsp;&nbsp;Immigration is another area of potential difference that has been underplayed. This issue is central to Kobach’s brand. He is about as conservative on immigration as possible, and has been an immigration advisor to President Trump.&nbsp;In Congress, Marshall has supported Trump on immigration, but past statements suggest Marshall is more moderate here. Regarding undocumented immigrants, he told the&nbsp;Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;in 2015: "There has to be a pathway to at least have a job. I'm not ready to jump on the amnesty bandwagon just yet, but we need to find a way to get these people into the system." Marshall added: “"We make it so hard for good people to become citizens.”&nbsp;This is a difference worth more attention than it has gotten, especially on a major issue that will outlast the Trump presidency.&nbsp;Beyond that, think about all of the issues where this campaign hasn’t clearly explored candidate positions, especially for Kobach and Hamilton who lack legislative records. Russia. NATO. Free trade. Health care policy. Covid policy. Numerous civil liberties issues. Energy. Platitudes aren’t policy.&nbsp;Is it unfortunate that this primary hasn’t treated Kansas voters to a deeper conversation about issues. Instead, we get sexy filler and symbolism. Did Marshall get special treatment from prosecutors in his 2008 conviction? Is Kobach electable or tied to white nationalists? Is Hamilton secretly pro-transgender? If you’re a Kansas Republican looking for more, don’t feel bad if you’re still hungry come primary day.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: GOP primary for U.S. Senate a voter injustice 

PHILLIPSBURG – For Kelly Forell, rodeoing in Phillipsburg is a family affair.&nbsp;

The barrel racer, a resident of Victoria, Kansas, is the wife of Guy Forell, a former bull rider who rode bulls at Kansas Biggest Rodeo. Kelly’s late father-in-law, Bud Forell, rode bareback horses and steer wrestled there in the 1950s through the 1980s. And Guy’s sister, Deb Forell Christy, also a barrel racer, has run barrels in Philipsburg for a dozen years or more.

For Kelly, marrying into the Forell family was not her first introduction to rodeo. She competed in gymkhanas, beginning when she was two years old. A student at Colby Community College, she began barrel racing in collegiate rodeo. Two years later, she was a student at Kansas State University, with a degree in animal science.

While in Colby, she caught the eye of the CCC rodeo coach, Guy Forell. The two dated, and married in 1991.&nbsp;

They moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., where the couple worked for the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). She was instrumental in helping switch the PRCA’s entry system for contestants entering rodeos from paper to computer, and helped with marketing as well.&nbsp;

In 1992, the couple moved to Alva, Okla., where Kelly obtained her CPA license and worked as an accountant. She owned her own firm for ten years. They raised three children: Cody, and twins Tyler and Bailey. The kids junior rodeoed, with daughter Bailey winning the 2014 National Little Britches barrel racing title.

Two years ago, Kelly had a bout with breast cancer. She had merged her accounting practice with another firm, and took off two months to fight the cancer. When she returned to work, her job had been eliminated. So she found a position as chief financial officer at High Plains Farm Credit in Hays, and she and Guy moved back to her hometown.&nbsp;

Now that her kids are grown, she is back to barrel racing. Three years ago, she bought a mare named Emmy and has seen some success with her, qualifying for the 2018 American Rodeo semi-finals.

She will be aboard Emmy when she runs in Phillipsburg on July 30. In addition to Phillipsburg, Forell will compete in Dodge City over the weekend. Guy, retired from riding bulls and now as president of Farmers Credit Union in Hays, is “my driver and stable boy,” she joked.&nbsp;

Forell will have another role in Phillipsburg this weekend: burger server for the barbecue hosted by High Plains Farm Credit. The barbecue, held July 30, is free to all ticket holders. As a Farm Credit employee, she volunteers her time with the organization.&nbsp;

In addition to competing in rodeo, she’s held other roles, like National Miss College Rodeo queen in 1989-90 and Miss Rodeo Kansas a year later. She has secretaried and timed rodeos, and helped with the office staff for the World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA) in 2019.&nbsp;

And she’s working on horses for the next generation of Forells. Her daughter has requested that mom get three or four barrel horses ready for her, when she’s out of college. “I think that might be my next major project,” Kelly said.&nbsp;

She loves competing in Phillipsburg, as a part of the Forell family. “I’m proud to carry on the Forell family tradition. I’m honored to be able to compete there and continue to represent the family, even though I married into it.”

The 91st&nbsp;edition of Kansas Biggest Rodeo kicks off July 30 and runs through August 1, with performances nightly at 8 pm. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1aBDBXoA2RRqEbLcuu-ypgI6-E8MF_uaU-eAgCJAYZ7k-645360059&amp;key=YAMMID-55247397&amp;link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.KansasBiggestRodeo.com">www.KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg (685 Third Street.) For more information, visit the website or call 785.543.2448.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595859974801.jpeg" alt="Kelly Forell, Victoria, Kan., will barrel race at the Phillipsburg rodeo July 30. The cowgirl has been involved in rodeo in a variety of roles." />
 <figcaption>Kelly Forell, Victoria, Kan., will barrel race at the Phillipsburg rodeo July 30. The cowgirl has been involved in rodeo in a variety of roles.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPSBURG – For Kelly Forell, rodeoing in Phillipsburg is a family affair.&nbsp;The barrel racer, a resident of Victoria, Kansas, is the wife of Guy Forell, a former bull rider who rode bulls at Kansas Biggest Rodeo. Kelly’s late father-in-law, Bud Forell, rode bareback horses and steer wrestled there in the 1950s through the 1980s. And Guy’s sister, Deb Forell Christy, also a barrel racer, has run barrels in Philipsburg for a dozen years or more.For Kelly, marrying into the Forell family was not her first introduction to rodeo. She competed in gymkhanas, beginning when she was two years old. A student at Colby Community College, she began barrel racing in collegiate rodeo. Two years later, she was a student at Kansas State University, with a degree in animal science.While in Colby, she caught the eye of the CCC rodeo coach, Guy Forell. The two dated, and married in 1991.&nbsp;They moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., where the couple worked for the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). She was instrumental in helping switch the PRCA’s entry system for contestants entering rodeos from paper to computer, and helped with marketing as well.&nbsp;In 1992, the couple moved to Alva, Okla., where Kelly obtained her CPA license and worked as an accountant. She owned her own firm for ten years. They raised three children: Cody, and twins Tyler and Bailey. The kids junior rodeoed, with daughter Bailey winning the 2014 National Little Britches barrel racing title.Two years ago, Kelly had a bout with breast cancer. She had merged her accounting practice with another firm, and took off two months to fight the cancer. When she returned to work, her job had been eliminated. So she found a position as chief financial officer at High Plains Farm Credit in Hays, and she and Guy moved back to her hometown.&nbsp;Now that her kids are grown, she is back to barrel racing. Three years ago, she bought a mare named Emmy and has seen some success with her, qualifying for the 2018 American Rodeo semi-finals.She will be aboard Emmy when she runs in Phillipsburg on July 30. In addition to Phillipsburg, Forell will compete in Dodge City over the weekend. Guy, retired from riding bulls and now as president of Farmers Credit Union in Hays, is “my driver and stable boy,” she joked.&nbsp;Forell will have another role in Phillipsburg this weekend: burger server for the barbecue hosted by High Plains Farm Credit. The barbecue, held July 30, is free to all ticket holders. As a Farm Credit employee, she volunteers her time with the organization.&nbsp;In addition to competing in rodeo, she’s held other roles, like National Miss College Rodeo queen in 1989-90 and Miss Rodeo Kansas a year later. She has secretaried and timed rodeos, and helped with the office staff for the World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA) in 2019.&nbsp;And she’s working on horses for the next generation of Forells. Her daughter has requested that mom get three or four barrel horses ready for her, when she’s out of college. “I think that might be my next major project,” Kelly said.&nbsp;She loves competing in Phillipsburg, as a part of the Forell family. “I’m proud to carry on the Forell family tradition. I’m honored to be able to compete there and continue to represent the family, even though I married into it.”The 91st&nbsp;edition of Kansas Biggest Rodeo kicks off July 30 and runs through August 1, with performances nightly at 8 pm. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1aBDBXoA2RRqEbLcuu-ypgI6-E8MF_uaU-eAgCJAYZ7k-645360059&amp;key=YAMMID-55247397&amp;link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.KansasBiggestRodeo.com">www.KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and at Heritage Insurance Group in Phillipsburg (685 Third Street.) For more information, visit the website or call 785.543.2448.

For Forells, Phillipsburg rodeo is a family tradition

First Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination, and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County announced this week it was awarded a $3,000 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant.

The grant will increase our assistance funds, which helps low-income households in four categories: rental assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, and diaper assistance.

&nbsp;“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our assistance program, which will allow us to serve more individuals and families in crisis.” said Linda Mills, Executive Director. “Without the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call would not be in a position to meet the increased need, especially for those who are financially stressed due to the pandemic.

Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to our region through community grants.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581950446822.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Call for Help of Ellis County, which provides crisis assistance, service coordination, and education to the most vulnerable populations in Ellis County announced this week it was awarded a $3,000 Heartland Community Foundation Immediate Needs Grant.	The grant will increase our assistance funds, which helps low-income households in four categories: rental assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, and diaper assistance.&nbsp;“We are grateful for Heartland Community Foundation’s investment in our assistance program, which will allow us to serve more individuals and families in crisis.” said Linda Mills, Executive Director. “Without the support from the Heartland Community Foundation, First Call would not be in a position to meet the increased need, especially for those who are financially stressed due to the pandemic.Since 2017, Heartland Community Foundation has built stronger communities and helped donors make a difference through charitable giving in Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties. Each year, the foundation distributes thousands of dollars back to our region through community grants.&nbsp;

First Call receives grant from Heartland Community Foundation

Three-day weather outlook

As a life-long western Kansan with more than 30 years experience in the courtroom, Tom Drees is running as a District Judge candidate for the 23rd Judicial District in the upcoming August 4th Republican primary election. Drees currently serves as the Ellis County Attorney, a position he has held since 1997. He has also served as the Trego County attorney for one term (1997-2000), in conjunction with his Ellis County Attorney position. The 23rd Judicial District encompasses Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties.

A native of Hays, Drees graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, Fort Hays State University, and the University of Kansas School of Law. After graduation from KU, he returned to Ellis County and worked in private practice and as the Assistant Ellis County Attorney for seven years. Under his leadership as Ellis County Attorney, the office has sentenced more than 3,000 felons, with more than 1,000 sentenced directly to prison since 1997.&nbsp;

Drees and his wife, Patricia, have two grown children, Anne and John, who are both educators. Patricia is a Professor of Nursing at Fort Hays State University. Tom is very involved in the community, where he has volunteered locally on the Board of Directors for High Plains Mental Health Center (2006-Present) and Ellis County Historical Society (2004-Present). He has also served as a BSA Troop 101 Assistant Scoutmaster (2009-Present), Immaculate Heart of Mary Confirmation Catechist (2005-Present) and on Parish Counsel (3 terms – totaling 17 years).&nbsp;

“I want to ensure that all who appear before me have a judge with integrity, who is independent, impartial, and neutral at all times, and who is able to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias, with the ultimate goal of achieving justice,” Drees said.

Drees’ experience in the courtroom has been recognized by state leaders with several judicial appointments. “During my professional career, I have served as the governor’s appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sentencing Commission (2007-2012); appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Recodification Commission – the redrafting of the Kansas Criminal Code (2009-2010); and am currently serving the Kansas Attorney General as an appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sexual Violent Predator Commitment Review Committee (2011-Present), and as an appointed prosecutor on the Kansas Supreme Court Pretrial Justice Committee (2018-Present). Locally, I’ve served as the selected prosecutor to the Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Juvenile Justice Board since 1996. Under my leadership, Ellis County sentenced 3,371 felons –&nbsp;1,081 to prison, in fiscal years 1998-2019.”

His commitment to an efficient judicial system is a top priority. “I will work diligently and meticulously to assist litigants and court staff to set hearings in a timelier fashion. I will openly communicate with the parties and properly prepare for each hearing and issue that will come before me, to know the relevant issues, statutes and case law necessary to decide the matter. I will timely issue opinions to the litigants to ensure justice is not delayed, and I will dedicate my full time and attention to accomplishing the judicial tasks entrusted to me,” Drees said.

“Every litigant that appears before a court has a right to expect their judge to be neutral, independent, impartial, whose integrity cannot be questioned. Proper court procedure requires a fair, open and timely hearing before a qualified and independent judge who has the ability to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias. I believe my years of experience in the law – and in life – will allow me to be such a judge. If elected judge, I will faithfully and diligently perform my duties to efficiently handle the cases and controversies that come before me. I will explore innovative ways to help move litigants’ cases forward expeditiously, without jeopardizing their right to a fair trial and a timely decision,” Drees said.

“For nearly 31 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving the public as a lawyer and prosecuting attorney. Now, with the public’s consent, I will continue to serve the public as District Judge of the 23rd Judicial District. With my years of courtroom experience, including scores of jury trials, I am prepared to use my experience to make tough and fair-minded decisions as your District Judge.”

Advance voting for the August 4 election is now available at the County Clerk’s office in each of Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties. Advance voting ends at Noon, on Monday, August 3rd. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2020.

“I would encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote,” Drees said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595948937233.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As a life-long western Kansan with more than 30 years experience in the courtroom, Tom Drees is running as a District Judge candidate for the 23rd Judicial District in the upcoming August 4th Republican primary election. Drees currently serves as the Ellis County Attorney, a position he has held since 1997. He has also served as the Trego County attorney for one term (1997-2000), in conjunction with his Ellis County Attorney position. The 23rd Judicial District encompasses Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties.A native of Hays, Drees graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, Fort Hays State University, and the University of Kansas School of Law. After graduation from KU, he returned to Ellis County and worked in private practice and as the Assistant Ellis County Attorney for seven years. Under his leadership as Ellis County Attorney, the office has sentenced more than 3,000 felons, with more than 1,000 sentenced directly to prison since 1997.&nbsp;Drees and his wife, Patricia, have two grown children, Anne and John, who are both educators. Patricia is a Professor of Nursing at Fort Hays State University. Tom is very involved in the community, where he has volunteered locally on the Board of Directors for High Plains Mental Health Center (2006-Present) and Ellis County Historical Society (2004-Present). He has also served as a BSA Troop 101 Assistant Scoutmaster (2009-Present), Immaculate Heart of Mary Confirmation Catechist (2005-Present) and on Parish Counsel (3 terms – totaling 17 years).&nbsp;“I want to ensure that all who appear before me have a judge with integrity, who is independent, impartial, and neutral at all times, and who is able to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias, with the ultimate goal of achieving justice,” Drees said.Drees’ experience in the courtroom has been recognized by state leaders with several judicial appointments. “During my professional career, I have served as the governor’s appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sentencing Commission (2007-2012); appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Recodification Commission – the redrafting of the Kansas Criminal Code (2009-2010); and am currently serving the Kansas Attorney General as an appointed prosecutor to the Kansas Sexual Violent Predator Commitment Review Committee (2011-Present), and as an appointed prosecutor on the Kansas Supreme Court Pretrial Justice Committee (2018-Present). Locally, I’ve served as the selected prosecutor to the Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Juvenile Justice Board since 1996. Under my leadership, Ellis County sentenced 3,371 felons –&nbsp;1,081 to prison, in fiscal years 1998-2019.”His commitment to an efficient judicial system is a top priority. “I will work diligently and meticulously to assist litigants and court staff to set hearings in a timelier fashion. I will openly communicate with the parties and properly prepare for each hearing and issue that will come before me, to know the relevant issues, statutes and case law necessary to decide the matter. I will timely issue opinions to the litigants to ensure justice is not delayed, and I will dedicate my full time and attention to accomplishing the judicial tasks entrusted to me,” Drees said.“Every litigant that appears before a court has a right to expect their judge to be neutral, independent, impartial, whose integrity cannot be questioned. Proper court procedure requires a fair, open and timely hearing before a qualified and independent judge who has the ability to fairly assess the merits of the case without prejudice or bias. I believe my years of experience in the law – and in life – will allow me to be such a judge. If elected judge, I will faithfully and diligently perform my duties to efficiently handle the cases and controversies that come before me. I will explore innovative ways to help move litigants’ cases forward expeditiously, without jeopardizing their right to a fair trial and a timely decision,” Drees said.“For nearly 31 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving the public as a lawyer and prosecuting attorney. Now, with the public’s consent, I will continue to serve the public as District Judge of the 23rd Judicial District. With my years of courtroom experience, including scores of jury trials, I am prepared to use my experience to make tough and fair-minded decisions as your District Judge.”Advance voting for the August 4 election is now available at the County Clerk’s office in each of Rooks, Ellis, Trego, and Gove counties. Advance voting ends at Noon, on Monday, August 3rd. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2020.“I would encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote,” Drees said. 
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595948971454.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Second Rooks County lake added to algae watch list

RUSSELL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a burglary have tracked down a third suspect after a two day manhunt.

On Thursday morning deputies located and arrested Curtis Klein of Gorham in the area of 186th and Land Road north of Russell. Klein ran from law enforcement during an arrest of two other suspects on Wednesday.

Just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 Block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.

At the residence, deputies observed a black Chevy pickup leaving the scene. Deputies attempted to contact the occupants in the pickup who drove into a large pasture.

At that time, additional Russell County deputies, KHP troopers and K9 officers arrived to help look for the pickup. Authorities found it crashed in a ravine, according to Whitman. No individuals were near the vehicle.

Just after 8a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located 3 individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. The third suspect later identified as Curtis Klein ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country and was found Thursday.

Deputies booked Klein on the same requested charges as Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend Burglary, Theft and Interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.

RUSSELL COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary, have two suspects in custody and continue to search for a third suspect.

Just after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.

Just after 8 a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located three individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. A third suspect — later identified as Curtis Klein of Gorham — ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country.

Deputies booked Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend on requested charges of burglary, theft and interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596056928567.png" alt="Hogan-photo Russell County" />
 <figcaption>Hogan-photo Russell County</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a burglary have tracked down a third suspect after a two day manhunt.On Thursday morning deputies located and arrested Curtis Klein of Gorham in the area of 186th and Land Road north of Russell. Klein ran from law enforcement during an arrest of two other suspects on Wednesday.Just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 Block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.At the residence, deputies observed a black Chevy pickup leaving the scene. Deputies attempted to contact the occupants in the pickup who drove into a large pasture.At that time, additional Russell County deputies, KHP troopers and K9 officers arrived to help look for the pickup. Authorities found it crashed in a ravine, according to Whitman. No individuals were near the vehicle.Just after 8a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located 3 individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. The third suspect later identified as Curtis Klein ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country and was found Thursday.Deputies booked Klein on the same requested charges as Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend Burglary, Theft and Interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.RUSSELL COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary, have two suspects in custody and continue to search for a third suspect.Just after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 19100 block of Decker Road in Bunker Hill in reference to a burglary in progress, according to sheriff Fred Whitman.At the residence, deputies observed a black Chevy pickup leaving the scene. Deputies attempted to contact the occupants in the pickup who drove into a large pasture.At that time, additional Russell County deputies, KHP troopers and K9 officers arrived to help look for the pickup. Authorities found it crashed in a ravine, according to Whitman. No individuals were near the vehicle.Just after 8 a.m. Wednesday, Russell County Deputies and KHP trooper were searching the area when they located three individuals. They questioned two of the men about the burglary and took them into custody. A third suspect — later identified as Curtis Klein of Gorham — ran from the officers, crossed the Saline River and into open country.Deputies booked Richard Wayne Hogan, 43, and John Wayne King of Great Bend on requested charges of burglary, theft and interference with law enforcement, according to Whitman.

3rd burglary suspect captured after Russell Co. chase, crash

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board voted Thursday to start school on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/719df8a4-7f9e-412b-a89c-68356073fefb">Click HERE for the updated story with additional information on reopening.</a>

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted Thursday to start school on Wednesday, Aug. 26.The vote was unanimous.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/719df8a4-7f9e-412b-a89c-68356073fefb">Click HERE for the updated story with additional information on reopening.</a>

BREAKING: Hays USD 489 BOE votes to start school on Aug. 26

As
COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Ellis County and throughout Northwest
Kansas, what should be the role of the county commission in community health
decisions and how is that role best accomplished?

I would talk with the head of the EMS. He is the
medical matter expert and communicate with the medical center. The Ellis County
Commissioners can then make the decision.

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?

More proactive. I would work with the city and Ellis
County and have a good relationship with the city of Hays. I would work with
Hays to get more water to Hays and higher-paying jobs, which will make our
people spend more. If they make more, they will spend more.

Several
high-profile disagreements have occurred this year with other county level
elected officials and the county commission. Going forward, what is the best way
to ensure that all county departments work in a cohesive manner?

More meetings with the department heads to have a
good communication with the employees under them.

In
what ways would you improve communication between city governments and the
county commission?

The city commissioners should attend county
meetings. Same with the county commissioners — they should go to city meetings.

This
year, two sales tax measures passed by the voters helped to alleviate strain on
the county budget, but long term concerns remain, how best can the county
commission stabilize their budget for the foreseeable future?

I think for now Ellis County should just maintain
what we have until a somewhat normal need returns.

If
elected, in what ways would you be a better servant of the public
interest than the other candidates?

By talking with them and Ellis County taxpayers. I
would go to the surrounding cities, town meetings and fire meetings and get
involved.

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

Ellis County spending too much money. I would keep
people involved and appoint Ellis County meetings to speak their opinions.

How
do you plan to address road and infrastructure concerns in Ellis County?

The way I see it, a road tour encounters on high
volume roads for traffic. Repair the roads as a scheduled maintenance program.

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

My experience with construction works, small and
large. I am an electrician, plumber and work with people to listen and talk
with them to reach common sense.

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

I will be in the Ellis County administrative office
in all departments for more than a morning and more than 15 minutes. I will
spend one to two hours minimum, just so I can see if more or less help is
needed in certain offices, including field operations.

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

Some of the raises that were given needed to be
distributed throughout the county employees. 

Many
county staff members received raises this year bringing them closer to the
market average for their positions, but remain under the average. How would you
ensure that county employees are paid an equitable wage now and into the
future?

The employees of Ellis County should get a cost of
living raise and budget the raises. They make up a good percentage of the Ellis
County workforce.

The
Ellis County Attorney has repeatedly asked for additional staff to be hired in
that office. Do you agree with that position and how would you address that as
a commissioner?

I would like to visit that office and see what the
workload is on a weekly basis. If I see it needs another position, then we could
budget it for them. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596211367391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As
COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Ellis County and throughout Northwest
Kansas, what should be the role of the county commission in community health
decisions and how is that role best accomplished?I would talk with the head of the EMS. He is the
medical matter expert and communicate with the medical center. The Ellis County
Commissioners can then make the decision.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?More proactive. I would work with the city and Ellis
County and have a good relationship with the city of Hays. I would work with
Hays to get more water to Hays and higher-paying jobs, which will make our
people spend more. If they make more, they will spend more.Several
high-profile disagreements have occurred this year with other county level
elected officials and the county commission. Going forward, what is the best way
to ensure that all county departments work in a cohesive manner?More meetings with the department heads to have a
good communication with the employees under them.In
what ways would you improve communication between city governments and the
county commission?The city commissioners should attend county
meetings. Same with the county commissioners — they should go to city meetings.This
year, two sales tax measures passed by the voters helped to alleviate strain on
the county budget, but long term concerns remain, how best can the county
commission stabilize their budget for the foreseeable future?I think for now Ellis County should just maintain
what we have until a somewhat normal need returns.If
elected, in what ways would you be a better servant of the public
interest than the other candidates? By talking with them and Ellis County taxpayers. I
would go to the surrounding cities, town meetings and fire meetings and get
involved.What
do you see as the top concern of Ellis County voters over the next few years
and what would you do to alleviate that concern?Ellis County spending too much money. I would keep
people involved and appoint Ellis County meetings to speak their opinions.How
do you plan to address road and infrastructure concerns in Ellis County?The way I see it, a road tour encounters on high
volume roads for traffic. Repair the roads as a scheduled maintenance program.In
what ways does your personal and professional experience qualify you to serve
as an Ellis County Commissioner?My experience with construction works, small and
large. I am an electrician, plumber and work with people to listen and talk
with them to reach common sense.In
your view, what is the primary difference between how you would serve as a
county commissioner and the other candidates?I will be in the Ellis County administrative office
in all departments for more than a morning and more than 15 minutes. I will
spend one to two hours minimum, just so I can see if more or less help is
needed in certain offices, including field operations.What
decision made by the county commission in the last few years did you disagree
with and what would have been your decision?Some of the raises that were given needed to be
distributed throughout the county employees. Many
county staff members received raises this year bringing them closer to the
market average for their positions, but remain under the average. How would you
ensure that county employees are paid an equitable wage now and into the
future?The employees of Ellis County should get a cost of
living raise and budget the raises. They make up a good percentage of the Ellis
County workforce.The
Ellis County Attorney has repeatedly asked for additional staff to be hired in
that office. Do you agree with that position and how would you address that as
a commissioner?I would like to visit that office and see what the
workload is on a weekly basis. If I see it needs another position, then we could
budget it for them.

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Commission: Neal Younger

As
COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Ellis County and throughout northwest
Kansas, what should be the role of the county commission in community health
decisions and how is that role best accomplished?

The best way to answer this; we do have a plan. We
have a plan for pandemics. We have 26 contact tracers in Ellis County. As far
as I know, per capita that might be one of the highest in the state. We
actually just started paying for and allotted some of our grant money toward
paying for more contact tracing. So we should be a source of information for
people so that they know how to protect themselves and we should be a source of
testing for people as well. We have a health department; we allot money every
year because we are statutorily obligated to control and monitor the spread of
infectious diseases. 

So we have a plan, we have a highly qualified, highly
talented individual in Jason Kennedy to administer that plan and as well we
will be distributing the CARES act money through the SPARK program to all of
the organizations around Ellis County in terms of helping them finically with
the impact of the coronavirus on their organizations, their businesses. I
believe that should be the role of the county commission. That has always been
the role of Ellis County government because we are statutorily obligated to do
that. In terms of mitigating measures, at some point there might have to be
mitigating measures that are added from what the governor did with the shutdown,
although I believe that shouldn’t have happened to us out here because of our
complete lack of cases at that point. I believe now is the time that we need to
be closely monitoring and doing our best. 

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?

First of all, I just would like to say, I am an
economic developer. I was on the Ellis County Economic Development Coalition a few years back. I’m and entrepreneur. I invest in businesses and I’m a
retailer so I know how to attract these people. The best way to attract
business is to make sure our pull factor continues to stay strong. That happens
by adding selection and by bringing in more ways for people to shop. The old
adage is that a lot of people don’t like competition, but what they don’t
realize is that we become the destination to shop and the pie gets bigger. They
think they are going to lose a portion of the pie, but the pie gets bigger. I
do believe that we need to be more proactive in economic development and that’s
why we have been at the county level. When I started as a commissioner, we were
funding Grow Hays at zero dollars and zero cents a year. Now I believe we are
at $30,000. Grow Hays is our economic development arm and many counties in
western Kansas — Finney for example — I believe they throw hundreds of thousands
of dollars at their economic development arm each year and they really are
trying to become a retail destination for the western part of the state. We
need to be proactive in that. I think we will continue to see successes in
economic development, mainly because we are projected for growth in Ellis
County. We are one of the only counties in all of western Kansas that had a
projection for growth from the Wichita State study that was done. They are
expecting us to grow 10-15 percent over the next 20 years. Unfortunately as
small towns in western Kansas get smaller, we will likely see an influx of
people moving from those towns, into little mini-metros like Hays. So that’s
exciting news for us, we just have to continue to keep our eye on the ball on
that.

Several
high profile disagreements have occurred this year with other county level
elected officials and the county commission. Going forward, what is the best way
to ensure that all county departments work in a cohesive manner?

So I image this question is written mainly about the
disagreement that happened between the treasurer and the chair of our
commission. Unfortunately as much as I would like people to maintain
professionalism in meetings, this is the hard thing with county government.
These are two co-elected officials that are having disagreements about the utmost
important thing we do as a commission — budgeting. It’s one of those things
where I can’t choose for the voters who they elect. I think they should
definitely look at disagreements like this and expect professionalism, but when
those types of things happen, all that a commissioner can do in those cases is
hope to lessen the impact of the disagreement, but also to make sure that we
are keeping the lines of communication open. 

We have had no other disagreements
with any other elected officials that I can remember. At least not something
like there where someone was removed from our chambers. But in that discussion, we did make some decisions about the treasurer’s office and the appraiser’s
office. We found out that we were over staffing the treasurer’s office by about
two positions and under staffing the our appraisers office by about two positions.
So in the 2021 budget, we have taken an employee from the treasurer’s office and
moved it to the appraiser’s office. So the vibrant discussion did at least make
it so that we were discussing important things and making sure that the county is
running as efficiently as possible. As far as mitigating that in the future, I
think that is the public’s responsibility. I think the public when they go to
the polls they should expect people to be professional and I hope that they see
that professionalism in me. I am not perfect. I never will be perfect. We will
always have disagreements, that’s the nature of government, but as long as in
those disagreements we don’t allow things to escalate like that and we continue
to stick to facts and questions in a budgeting process, we will get the answers
that we should get and we will make the decisions that we think are best for
the county in the future.

I actually think this is a great question and right
up my wheelhouse. I am personal friends with multiple city commissioners in
Hays. Hays is approximately 22,000 of our 28,000 people in Ellis County and
being personal friends with them helps because I get to have discussions with
them and they are open with me because they know I won’t take that discussion and use them against them. We can have good open dialogue because of that. As
far as that goes, we have done multiple things along with the city commission.
Right now, we are working with Victoria because we have a big road project that
is going to be going on Cathedral Road. In just the recent past, we have done
some work on the bridge in big bridge in Ellis that will be expensive in the
end if we have to do any replacement to it. 

We always want those lines of
communication open and I think that the beauty from me is, I would say four of
the five I could call at any time and they would answer and we would be able to
have good dialogue about what is going on. I think that the city commission of
Hays should get a little more involved in the Northwest Business Corridor
project. I think with that project they are the biggest beneficiary of it and, being
the biggest beneficiary of it, I think you should financially get involved. I
have said that openly and have requested that they get financially involved and I
think they will. I think that it is just right now they are just as concerned,
like everybody is, with their budget and the effects of the coronavirus.
Luckily, they have been having good numbers from the sales tax issues, but they
didn’t know they are actually getting better numbers than they were projecting.
So hopefully that cash streams up for them and they can continue to do a little
more contributing toward what I think is a vital project to the growth and
economic prosperity of Ellis County. 

This
year, two sales tax measures passed by the voters helped to alleviate strain on
the county budget, but long-term concerns remain. How best can the county
commission stabilize their budget for the foreseeable future?

The best thing that can be said is with these two
sales taxes we were actually able to lower property taxes this year. We ran the
first balanced budget in 10-plus, I believe it's 12 years. When I took over
this job, we were on what you could call an asset burn. We had cash in the bank
in 2012 — I believe it was around $12 million in unencumbered cash — and we had dwindled
that dollar amount way down to a point where we were uncomfortable with our
unencumbered cash and we needed to make some drastic changes. That’s when we
decided as a commission, I actually made a motion earlier last year to do a
quarter-cent sales tax for health services. 

Right now in Ellis County, we run
one of the most robust EMS units you can have. We are at a four and a half
minute response time, we run three stations, 24/7 365 with paramedic-level
staffing. Every ambulance that goes out has a paramedic on it. That’s the
highest level of service that can be offered on an ambulance. Essentially a
paramedic stabilizes a person to the same condition that an ER would before they
take you to the ER saving you valuable minutes in cardiac cases, trauma cases
and things like that. So we run a very robust system. Because of that system
being so robust we had to start looking at the possibility of closing stations,
lessening our full-time status at other stations in order to spend less money, essentially.
When I made that motion, my suggestion was that we did not have a sunset on that
quarter-cent sales tax. The other two commissioners voted that down and eventually
I had to figure out a way to find a compromise with them. We compromised on two
quarter-cent sales tax, one that we have now allotted straight to road
infrastructure. We are in the process of a $5.4 million bond to take
care of a lot of road projects. And then with the healthcare tax we put a ten-year sunset on that. That health care tax is going to net us about $1.6 million
a year because the whole tax goes to Ellis County and it can be used for our
paramedic service and it can be used for our health department. It can also be
used for things like High Plains Mental Health and DSNWK. things that could be
considered health services in the county. 

I am concerned about the future. I
think that the citizens of Ellis County are probably about eight to ten years
into this sales tax are going to have to make a decision about their paramedic
services again. I don’t have any intention of just trying to throw a lot of
unencumbered cash into the bank so that we can drag this out another three or
four years beyond that sunset and then have future commissioners put into the
same mess that I was put into when I was put in this position. At some point, you have to decide as a populace are you willing to pay for something and, if
you are willing to pay for it, you don’t just decide on an amount of time — you
just decide you are willing to pay for it. That will be the choice of the
voters. In the meantime, I am going to try and keep property taxes down and get
our unencumbered cash to around 20 to 25 percent of our total budget. That
unencumbered cash is there for emergency situations, things like floods,
tornados, fires and pandemics. Things like that can cause financial strain on a
county and we should be able to ride that out with our cash before we wait on
state and federal funding to get that cash back. There have been counties in
serious situations in the past because they didn’t have those reserves and so I
think that is good governance to have at least around that amount of money in
reserves. 

The other things thing that could help us out tremendously in Ellis
County is if the oil price goes up, mainly because we are the largest oil-producing county in the state, about 2.5 million barrels of oil a year, which
is a staggering number. Because of that the ad valorem, value-added taxes that
coincide with our property taxes we can have huge swings in the amount of money
that we are bringing in off that. That’s what happened this year. We saw a big
dip in that because of the set oil price for that ad valorem tax. 

If re-elected, in what ways would you be a better servant of the public
interest than the other candidates?

That’s a tough question. I really do think that the
other two candidates are wonderful, wonderful people. But I will go on record
and say that I absolutely bring a different perspective to the commission than
the two older retired gentlemen. I’m investing in businesses, I am a 34-year-old man with two young children and a wife and I am a recent first time home
buyer. I am invested, I am involved. I am a member of the DHDC, I have served
on the Ellis County Economic Development Coalition, which is now Grow
Hays. I am heavily involved in the county and the community. I am a
commissioner now with two years of experience and I think a record that I am
willing to stand on; lower property taxes and a balanced budget. The first
balanced budget in a decade. 

If that is what people want, I think that’s who I
am and I think that’s the perspective that I bring. I feel like service to the
community is just co-mingled in that. I am involved in so many things, every
single day it seems like somebody walks into my business and asks me to donate
and my policy is, if they are willing to walk in and ask I try my best not to
turn them down. We try to do something for everybody. That heavy involvement, that
knowing the people within the community that I deal with is something the other
two candidates don’t bring. I am at all of these things, I am heavily involved
with the Chamber of Commerce and I think that that involvement is what makes me
a different candidate than the other two. &nbsp;

I would say road infrastructure is probably one of
the bigger concerns for Ellis County residents. The extraterritorial
jurisdiction around Hays has kind of become a mess, for lack of a better word.
People don’t know when they are on a county road, on a city of Hays road. We
have bridge infrastructure issues. We have bridge infrastructure that needs to be monitored.
We do a bridge inspection every two years. It is scheduled to be this year, to
make sure our bridges are safe, but bridge infrastructure I believe is the No. 1 concern of our voters. Good infrastructure adds economic development. If
people can get around in our county well, whether it be oil, farming retail
businesses, the new travel plaza where I think we will catch an exuberant
amount of traffic from our I-70 corridor, and now the Northwest Business
Corridor that some of that truck traffic to alleviate that Vine Street
congestion. I think that’s our No. 1 concern and that’s why we are
addressing it. I think that is the only reason that they passed this quarter-cent general sales tax. They want us to take care of these things and I want to
continue doing it. 

This is a good question because I think that is some
of the last forum questions I answered it asked about the quarter-cent sales
tax for general purposes and I don’t think that they understood that the
commissioners and I have already earmarked that money mainly for road and
bridge infrastructure needs for the next 5 years. It’s a $5.4 million bond that
will go to address all kinds of road and bridge infrastructure problems. It
will finish the Northwest Business Corridor. One way that I think a lot of my constituents
in the Second District know this, I don’t think they realize is actually a
county and city road is 48th Street over from Roth Avenue to Hall
street across the bridge. That is half a city road and half a county road, that
road will be fixed with this money. We have a big project in Victoria that I
talked about earlier, that’s Cathedral in Victoria. 

Victoria got a large grant
for their water infrastructure they are doing that right along Cathedral Road
and Cathedral road is a major thoroughfare through Victoria and most people
don’t realize that county government when a city is rated the way Victoria is,
is really responsible as a county for their major thoroughfares. That’s why we
are responsible for a bridge in the middle of Ellis, but not responsible for
any bridges within the city of Hays because of our classification as a city. We
will be working a bridge project way up north of Ellis and that is a relatively
large project. We will be taking care of a couple of other smaller bridge
projects, a lot of blacktop resurfacing. 

So we have tied up $5.4 million of
that tax money which is basically the entirety of that quarter-cent sales tax
for general purposes to road infrastructure and my intention was when we went
and talk to the voters at the town hall’s that is what we promised them and
that is what we are going to do. It’s not going to go toward raises to our
county employees as much as we love and care about our employees and what they
do. This is going to go directly to infrastructure, and I believe that that is
important for the future of Ellis County. 

As I said earlier, I am a retailer. I own a retail
business and I now am investing in somewhat of a service, an event center business. I believe that professional spirit as an entrepreneur and as a person
that bootstrapped themselves from a 300 sq. ft. office to a 6,000 sq. ft.
building on Main Street, everything I touch I try to make it better. I never
want to leave something worse than I found it and that’s the way I treat county
government, that’s the way I treat my businesses, that’s the way I treat my
home, that’s the way I treat any organization I ever become a part of. We are
going to fix them, we are going to make their finances better, we are going to
make everything that we touch needs to get better. 

That has been my
professional life. I started a business very small. I am now in a completely
different financial situation than I was then and it has been through work and
by putting my nose to the grindstone and problem-solving. The unique thing
about being a small business owner is every day I am going to spend the entire
day problem solving for my customers, for my staff and for myself. I have honed
my skill with problem-solving by simply having to do it for the last nine years
of running my own small business. 

I have lived in Hays for around 15 years, give or
take, and left for about a year or so. Hays is my home now, but the unique thing
for me being in Hays is that I choose Hays. I wasn’t born here. I lived in a
tiny little town in Ness County. I chose Hays because I wanted to live here.
This is a great city. This is a great county and I think that my perspective as
a businessman is incredibly important on that commission. I think that a
commission with two 30 year employees on it would not have the impactful interest
at heart. As far as the professional careers of my competitors, I imagine they
were both extremely hard working and very accomplished in what they did, it
just isn’t what I am doing which is working right in the middle of the free
market every single day. The rent is due and success is only going to rented
not earned. I am a workhorse and that’s what I want to give to this community.

You can see my voting record. I am typically the
only one that dissents on votes. You can see the things that I disagreed with
and why I disagreed with them. Most importantly, I would say the No. 1 thing that I think we have done wrong was that we should have asked for a quarter-cent sales tax for health care services, and we should have had it in perpetuity.
That way we could continue to drive down property taxes, but we would have our
robust EMS system to be paid for in perpetuity until some other commission
deemed it non-necessary anymore and took it off. That was probably our biggest
disagreement as a board. I still think I am right, but I’m sure the other two
still think they are right, so I have to just let any future commission coming
up here in about 10 years know that a large portion of your revenue source
will go away in one fell swoop and if they should be cognizant of that. 

I think
the preparation should be two-fold. It should be that you should prepare to cut
EMS services or cut other services to get back to the level of what are you
bringing in and work within your means, or you should prepare to ask the folks
of Ellis County to put that quarter-cent sales tax into perpetuity at that
point. It’s a decade away, I don’t plan to be a career politician on the county
commission. I think I have done a good job this round and I would love to see
what I can do with four years of problem-solving and growing, now that it is
not just problem solving the budget, it's talking about growing and investing in
the future. 

We pay relatively adjustably in Ellis County. There
are some division within the county that are underpaid, that is mainly at road
and bridge. All road and bridge compete directly with the oil market in Ellis
County and that is why there is a large drive for truck drivers, dirt work,
movers and mechanics. That kind of stuff is driven by an industry in Ellis
County that makes us less competitive in that group. Frankly, I think we need to
get better at allowing our road and bridge department to see talent when it
comes to their department and aggressively increase their pay in order to
maintain that talent. 

As a county on the whole we pay at least fairly. For example, if you become a full-time Ellis County employee you are only going to pay about
11 percent of your whole family health care. The average for employees across
the country according to the Kaiser Family Foundation is 17 percent for a single
employee and about 20 percent for a family. So we have an aggressive benefits
package. 

The other beauty is that we just renegotiated our health care and when
we did that it was a win for the taxpayers and a win for our employees. So even
though we had lessened our contribution as taxpayers, our employees are now
going to get better health care coverage, lower deductibles and they are not
going to see an impact on their pay. It was a win-win situation and it was a
wonderful job by our benefits committee to go out and do this negotiation. But
in most other departments when we have an employee that moves on from Ellis
County, we have a lot of applications and frankly, I think that we also need to
do a little better job, especially out at road and bridge of explaining how we
pay. We have somewhat of a convoluted way that we pay our employees, which I
think needs addressed. We have cost of living adjustments, we have a wage step
increase from a step study that was done a few years ago that we work with as
well as a longevity bonuses. So you add all those things together and it’s
kind of a convoluted way to pay employees. 

I believe that pay should be based
on merit. I don’t believe it should be based on longevity. If you are bad
employee, just because you around for a long time I don’t think you should be paid
more than a good employee. But a lot of times because you have been around for
a long time, you have institutional knowledge that new employees don’t have and
you are better at the job. So I think there should be better reasons for why we
give pay increases. I think we should stop make cost of living adjustments,
except for low-level staff where I believe a cost of living adjustment makes
sense. A lot of times when we do a cost of living adjustment increase, the biggest
beneficiaries are higher-paid employees because if you just do 2 percent, 2
percent of a higher-paid employee is a much bigger number than a lower-paid
employee. I believe that those lower-paid employees are the ones that we
struggle to keep around. Our department heads are not a struggle to keep
around. We pay them right within the average of what they should be paid
anywhere and I think we offer a very stable position. That’s the thing that I
think we should think about at road and bridge. We talk about the stability of
the job because the oil industry goes up and down and when it goes down we get
a lot of employees, when it’s up we lose them. If we can figure out a way to
tie those employees into the long term in Ellis County as our employees they
end up being in good financial shape by the time they need to retire and I
think that can be seen from some of our long term employees out there of which
there are a lot and they benefit came from when they had been around a long
time. 

When I first came on the commission, that was the first
time Tom (Drees) came to us with his concern. He wanted us to see if we could fund
another full-time position at the attorney’s office. At the time, we were in no financial
shape to do that and we turned him down. Since Tom is now in his last budget
cycle, he actually came with a budget that took a position away from him, which I
thought was interesting since Tom wasn’t running for the position anymore, but
also the two candidates that are running are both running on saving money in
that department. So, I have less concern about this as I did initially when I
had 20-30 people in the room telling me that we were leaving murderers on the
street and things like that. I since found out that that is not the case, that
most of these were in review of the office and they were deciding whether they
were going to prosecute or not. That wasn’t the case from what I was told. 

Both
of the gentlemen that are running for county attorney are running on lowering
the budget for the attorney and running more efficiently. There are all kinds
of ways that you can do that in an attorney’s office and I would expect that
the people that are going out to vote would look at those ways. I think that
these two guys are laying out a good plan for making that office more efficient
and catching up on that case log. As of now, Tom has submitted a budget that is an
employee down and it did save us around $40,000 comparative to what we would
have been doing in the last budget cycle. I thank Tom for all of his service,
but I don’t believe the new county attorneys are going to be requesting more
money. Maybe when they get in that office it will be a different situation and
we have to have our eyes open and be willing to listen to their concerns and
we're will always do that, but I don’t expect that to be an issue in the future.
I believe that desire of these two gentlemen, that desire to be our prosecutor, is
great for Ellis County and should really help the court system for the future. 

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Commission: Dustin Roths

As
COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Ellis County and throughout northwest
Kansas, what should be the role of the county commission in community health
decisions and how is that role best accomplished?

According
to K.S.A. 65-201, the “County Commission acts as the County Board of Health.” As such, the board should always act in the
best interest of the safety and well-being of the citizens it represents. All decisions regarding public health should
be made with consideration of what protects the public’s health and safety, not
because of political or individual ideological views. &nbsp;As a commissioner, one should always strive to
do the right thing for the right reason. 

Those
decisions should always be based on sound information from professionals in any
given area. With regards to the current
pandemic, information from medical professionals like the public health officer
(Ellis County Health Department Administrator), local/state/national physicians
and any guidance provided by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), HHS (Health and
Human Services) and KDHE (Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment) should
be utilized to make a sound decision. 

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?

Absolutely,
the Ellis County Commission should be working closely with private citizens and
all cities within Ellis County to attract and sustain businesses in our communities.&nbsp; In the past, Ellis County has provided financial support in this effort.&nbsp; That support was significantly decreased
several years ago as the county budget was tightened.&nbsp; Ellis County should reinvest in local economic
development without burdening the Ellis County taxpayer. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Such
an investment could take several different approaches as not one size fits all
economic sustainability and/or growth. I would be very interested in discussing
innovative ways to develop the local economy. 

I
do believe it is important that Ellis County representatives work collaboratively
with the current economic development efforts to enhance those endeavors in a positive
manner for Ellis County cities and citizens.&nbsp;
Such collaboration would prevent duplication of efforts and show
potential business partners that all the governing bodies are working
cooperatively for the common good of our community.&nbsp;

Currently,
there are some opportunities for sustainment of local businesses within the approximate
$5.7 million of Cares-Act money that is coming to Ellis County, Kansas.&nbsp; A portion of those funds could be utilized
for economic development and/or business sustainment.&nbsp; The County Administrator (J.D. Cox) has
established a committee to evaluate options and make recommendations to the
Ellis County Commission on how to invest those dollars wisely.&nbsp; Mr. Cox has put together a very impressive
committee of community leaders from the major employers and a variety of
businesses from across Ellis County. Because of the timeline attached to the
federal aid package, the recommendations of the committee will be presented for
approval to the current Ellis County Commission.

Several
high-profile disagreements have occurred this year with other county level
elected officials and the county commission, going forward what is the best way
to ensure that all county departments work in a cohesive manner?

Professionalism. All elected officials need to treat
their constituents, other elected officials, department heads and&nbsp;county
employees professionally and with respect. Unfortunately, with
recent actions of the current commission they have created a real creditability
issue within the community, other elected officials/department head level staff
and other current county employees. Such
a trust issue exemplifies that team building
needs to be improved. The current atmosphere of “they don’t care” is
counter-productive to providing quality and professional service to the
citizens of Ellis County.

To succeed as a commissioner, one must spend additional
time in all county offices talking with and listening to the department heads
or elected officials overseeing those offices. By having those cooperative conversations with the county staff, a commissioner
can gain valuable insight and knowledge of the day-to-day&nbsp;operations&nbsp;and struggles&nbsp;of various county departments.&nbsp; 

I&nbsp;have had previous&nbsp;experience&nbsp;with most of the
county officials, so I already have a working relationship with
them. I understand&nbsp;how county government works&nbsp;and
believe I can use my prior experience to&nbsp;assist departments to work
cooperatively for the good of the county and its citizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In
what ways would you improve communication between city governments and the
county commission?

First,
I would say that communication must be two ways to be effective.&nbsp; The county commission and city governmental
bodies of Ellis County must be willing to talk, listen and agree to work
together mutually for any communications to be productive. Historically, the cities within Ellis County
and the county commission have worked very independently from each other. It is essential that all government bodies
strive to work closely to integrate their efforts in the best interest of the
taxpayers. &nbsp;

I
think annual or semi-annual meetings with all governmental agencies would
greatly improve communication. Additionally, meeting one-on-one with commissioners/council members from
other government bodies would be important to supplement those communication
efforts.&nbsp; With the advent of the changing
social norms, cooperating and collaborating with other government bodies is
going to be imperative.

I
would not limit communication to just governmental agencies.&nbsp; By passing the
sales tax questions,&nbsp;the citizens of Ellis County&nbsp;stated&nbsp;very
loudly they want&nbsp;services. Because of
limited funds available, we must research&nbsp;ways in which&nbsp;we can
collaborate with other government agencies&nbsp;and residents of Ellis
County&nbsp;to provide services in a more efficient and effective
manner.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This
year, two sales tax measures passed by the voters helped to alleviate strain on
the county budget, but long-term concerns remain. How best can the county commission
stabilize their budget for the foreseeable future?

As I stated in the question above, by passing the sales tax
questions,&nbsp;the citizens of Ellis County&nbsp;stated&nbsp;very loudly they
want&nbsp;Ellis County to continue providing quality services.&nbsp; 

Passage of the&nbsp;quarter-cent sales tax to fund health
services and the quarter-cent sales tax to fund general operations&nbsp;was
critical&nbsp;to&nbsp;Ellis County&nbsp;to allow continuation
of&nbsp;services&nbsp;at the current level.&nbsp; Without&nbsp;voter approval
of those sales tax questions, Ellis County would have faced a $1.5 million to
$2.2 million deficit, resulting in a&nbsp;reduction&nbsp;of&nbsp;services
and/or&nbsp;a&nbsp;reduction of manpower or personnel layoffs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The current commission has started the process to bond
the&nbsp;monies generated by the&nbsp;sales tax to be used for general fund
purposes&nbsp;to repair and replace infrastructure.&nbsp; I believe that
decision will certainly help the infrastructure needs.&nbsp; However,&nbsp;there is
still much to be done.&nbsp;&nbsp;If the bonding process proceeds and is successful,
approximately $600,000 to $650,000/annually of the conservative estimated
$700,000/annually generated by that quarter cent sales tax for general fund
purposes will be&nbsp;committed&nbsp;to pay off those bonds&nbsp;over the next five&nbsp;years,
leaving&nbsp;very few dollars&nbsp;for the first five years to utilize in other
areas of county operations such as, reducing property
taxes, additional infrastructure projects or employee retention.

Meanwhile, the approximately $1.5 million generated by the quarter-cent sales tax to fund health services was utilized
as a funding mechanism to fund health services like EMS, Health Department,
Development Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) and High Plains Mental
Health.&nbsp; 

County governments have very limited ways to produce
revenue.&nbsp; The most common are user fees,
property taxes and/or sale taxes.&nbsp;
Without a change in the federal regulations overseeing reimbursement for
EMS or the Health Department or a dramatic increase in the number of clients served,
they have maximized their reimbursements. &nbsp;No one including myself wants to pay additional
taxes.&nbsp; It basically comes down to what
services the citizens of Ellis County demand.&nbsp;
If they demand services at the current level, the county commission must
budget appropriately to ensure that those services are available.&nbsp; Because of limited funds available, we must
research&nbsp;ways in which&nbsp;we can collaborate with other government
agencies&nbsp;and residents of Ellis County&nbsp;to provide services in a more
efficient and effective manner.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

If
elected, in what ways would you be a better servant of the public
interest than the other candidates?

Community service has been my
life’s work.&nbsp;&nbsp;I&nbsp;feel&nbsp;that becoming a Commissioner in
Ellis County is the&nbsp;natural&nbsp;next step in service to&nbsp;my
community.&nbsp;&nbsp;In my previous work experience, I gained insight and
knowledge of the day to day&nbsp;operations&nbsp;and struggles&nbsp;of various
county departments.&nbsp; I believe my&nbsp;experience allows me to have a
unique insight into&nbsp;budgeting and funding issues,&nbsp;operating expenses
and&nbsp;capital expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;I have dealt
with&nbsp;personnel&nbsp;issues, including&nbsp;recruiting,&nbsp;hiring and
retaining qualified employees,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the process of&nbsp;negotiating&nbsp;affordable&nbsp;health
insurance&nbsp;and other benefits&nbsp;for&nbsp;county
employees.&nbsp;&nbsp;I&nbsp;have had previous&nbsp;experience&nbsp;with most
county officials, so I already have a working relationship with most of them.&nbsp;&nbsp;
I understand&nbsp;how county government works&nbsp;and believe I can use my
prior experience to&nbsp;assist departments to work cooperatively for the good
of the county and its citizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

• Professionalism.&nbsp;
Elected officials need to treat their constituents, other elected officials,
department heads and&nbsp;county employees professionally and with
respect.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Fiscal
responsibility.&nbsp; All elected officials and&nbsp;county staff members are
entrusted with handling tax dollars responsibly.&nbsp; As a
commissioner&nbsp;the citizens of Ellis County demand fiscal
responsibility&nbsp;and oversight of those dollars.&nbsp; It will be even more important since the citizens
entrusted the Ellis County Commission with an additional $2.2 million in sale
tax revenues for the next ten years.

• Services
provided.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ellis County&nbsp;currently&nbsp;provides a variety of
services&nbsp;including&nbsp;public safety, public works, public
health&nbsp;and&nbsp;several&nbsp;statutorily required services.&nbsp;&nbsp;We&nbsp;are in the middle of unprecedented economical
times.&nbsp; We are also facing new social norms.&nbsp; Ellis County will have
to re-evaluate the way it provides services.&nbsp; In order to do that, Ellis
County will need Commissioners&nbsp;who&nbsp;recognize
the way we govern now, may not be the same way we govern in the&nbsp;future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Recruitment
&amp; Retention.&nbsp; The staff members of Ellis County are the&nbsp;county’s biggest&nbsp;assets.&nbsp; We&nbsp;must&nbsp;treat them
accordingly.&nbsp; The simple fact is,&nbsp;if&nbsp;we as a county&nbsp;are not
competitive in the salary market,&nbsp;we&nbsp;will lose quality staff members
to an agency that is competitive.&nbsp; It costs&nbsp;you and&nbsp;I&nbsp;as
taxpayers&nbsp;(ultimately Ellis County) more to hire and train new employees
than it does&nbsp;to treat&nbsp;the current employees&nbsp;fairly and professionally.&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Infrastructure.&nbsp; The local economy (oil production,
agriculture and other forms of commerce) of Ellis County depends heavily on our
infrastructure, so it is imperative that the infrastructure of our county is
maintained.&nbsp;

How
do you plan to address road and infrastructure concerns in Ellis County?

As mentioned in a previous question. &nbsp;The current Ellis County Commission has
started the process to bond the&nbsp;monies generated by the&nbsp;sales tax to
be used for general fund purposes&nbsp;to repair and replace
infrastructure.&nbsp; Projects included in that bonding project are; Northwest
Business Corridor, Saline River Bridge north of Ellis, rebuilding Cathedral
Road in Victoria in conjunction with the City of Victoria’s water project,
replacing the bridge decking on old Highway 40 at Vincent Road, bridge repair
west of Yocemento Elevator on Yocemento Avenue, Feedlot Road will be rebuilt
between 210th Avenue and 230th Avenue, resurfacing 48th
Street between Hall Street and Roth Avenue and rebuilding Commerce Parkway from
I-70 to Airbase Road.&nbsp; I believe that
decision will certainly help the infrastructure needs.&nbsp; However,&nbsp;there is
still much to be done.&nbsp;&nbsp;If the bonding process proceeds and is successful,
approximately $600,000 to $650,000/annually of the conservative estimated
$700,000/annually generated by that quarter cent sales tax for general fund
purposes will be&nbsp;committed&nbsp;to pay off the $5.4 million bonds&nbsp;over
the next five&nbsp;years, leaving&nbsp;very few dollars&nbsp;for the first five
years&nbsp;to utilize in other areas of county operations such as reducing property taxes, additional infrastructure projects or
employee retention.&nbsp; At that point, the
commission will need to make the decision if they are going to use the next
five years funds for additional infrastructure projects, reduction of property
taxes, other county department operations or employee retention.

Additional projects that need to be considered:

• Additional road or bridge
projects.&nbsp; Those should be prioritized
and scheduled as funds become available.&nbsp;
I would hope that grant funding could be utilized for some of those
projects 

• County Facilities.&nbsp; &nbsp;While several
county facilities are in very good shape, there are still some facility needs
within the county.&nbsp; For example, the county
Road &amp; Bridge facility (1198 280th Ave) has been neglected for
years and needs to be updated.

• Other county infrastructure needs like, ambulances, sheriff’s office patrol cars, fire
trucks, durable medical equipment, dump trucks and road graders need to
continue being presented and approved during the budgeting cycle as capital
improvement projects.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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

As I mentioned above,&nbsp;community
service has been my life’s work.&nbsp;&nbsp;I&nbsp;feel&nbsp;that
becoming a commissioner in Ellis County is the&nbsp;natural&nbsp;next step in
service to&nbsp;my community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

My formal education includes a
bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas in Health Care Administration
and a master’s degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City in Public
Administration.&nbsp; 

In my previous work experience, I gained insight and
knowledge of the day to day&nbsp;operations&nbsp;and struggles&nbsp;of various
county departments.&nbsp; I believe my&nbsp;experience allows me to have a
unique insight into&nbsp;budgeting and funding issues,&nbsp;operating expenses
and&nbsp;capital expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;I have dealt
with&nbsp;personnel&nbsp;issues, including&nbsp;recruiting,&nbsp;hiring and
retaining qualified employees&nbsp;and&nbsp;the process
of&nbsp;negotiating&nbsp;affordable&nbsp;health insurance&nbsp;and other
benefits&nbsp;for&nbsp;county employees.&nbsp;&nbsp;I&nbsp;have had
previous&nbsp;experience&nbsp;with most county officials, so I already have a
working relationship with most of them.&nbsp;&nbsp; I understand&nbsp;how
county government works&nbsp;and believe I can use my prior experience
to&nbsp;assist departments to work cooperatively for the good of the county and
its citizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

In
my view the primary difference between myself and the other two candidates is
that I have been involved in Ellis County government for the last thirty years.&nbsp; During that time, I have gained insight on
how I can help the departments of Ellis County provide services in an efficient
and effective manner.&nbsp; 

Additionally,
I have no other political aspirations. &nbsp;People
who hold local public offices are much more accessible making politics more
difficult at the local level.&nbsp; Regardless,
I believe I still have contributions to make to my community. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

There
have been several but the two that stand out are:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On
June 8, 2020, the Ellis County Commission signed a County Resolution to allocate
only $17,310 of the approximately $140,000 budgeted for calendar year 2020 to
provide county employees cost of living increases or salary adjustments for the
approximate 180.50 county staff members.&nbsp;
Thus, putting staff members farther behind current competitive local,
regional and state salary scales for the positions they hold at Ellis
County.&nbsp; Decisions like this make it very
difficult to recruit or retain the biggest asset the county has, its team
members.&nbsp; Not to mention what those types
of decisions do to employee morale. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
For the last
several years,&nbsp;the Ellis County&nbsp;Commission has budgeted politically
and not for what was in the best interest of you, me,&nbsp;or Ellis
County.&nbsp; We have been relying on cash reserves and the
oil&nbsp;depletion&nbsp;fund&nbsp;to fill budget shortfalls, which resulted
in&nbsp;spending down&nbsp;most our&nbsp;cash reserves that had been
accumulated.&nbsp;&nbsp; Without those funds, how would Ellis County pay for a
long drawn out jury trial or a natural disaster?&nbsp; 

Many
county staff members received raises this year bringing them closer to the
market average for their positions, but remain under the average. How would you
ensure that county employees are paid an equitable wage now and into the
future?

As I mentioned in a question above, the team members of
Ellis County are the&nbsp;county’s biggest&nbsp;assets.&nbsp;
We&nbsp;must&nbsp;treat them accordingly.&nbsp; The simple fact
is,&nbsp;if&nbsp;we as a county&nbsp;are not competitive in the salary
market,&nbsp;we&nbsp;will lose quality staff members to an agency that is
competitive.&nbsp; It costs&nbsp;you and&nbsp;I&nbsp;as
taxpayers&nbsp;(ultimately Ellis County) more to hire and train new employees
than it does&nbsp;to treat&nbsp;the current employees&nbsp;fairly and
professionally.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the past, the commission has contracted outside companies to
conduct salary surveys.&nbsp; The last salary
comparison was the Evergreen Study (2015) which cost Ellis County
$40,000.00.&nbsp; It took the county several
years to fully implement the study.&nbsp; In
fact, the Evergreen study was finally completed with the County Resolution
signed on June 8, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp; Because it took
so long to complete, Ellis County has fallen even farther behind the most
current competitive local, regional and state wage scales for many of its
positions.

With a collaborative effort between the Ellis County Commission,
County Administrator and the Elected Officials/Department Heads the commission
could identify what the most current competitive pay scales are for positions
within Ellis County.&nbsp; With such
information, Ellis County can develop a
plan&nbsp;regarding&nbsp;how we as a county&nbsp;are&nbsp;going to handle
personnel compensation for the foreseeable future.&nbsp; An accepted pay plan
can provide guidance on how to keep pace with the local and statewide
marketplace.&nbsp; 

The
Ellis County Attorney has repeated asked for additional staff to be hired in
that office, do you agree with that position and how would you address that as
a commissioner?

The
current County Attorney has provided the Ellis County Commission with
sufficient data comparing our County Attorney’s office to like sized county
offices in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;
According to the population served and the crime rate of those counties,
the Ellis County Attorney’s office was understaffed for a number of years.&nbsp; 

Since
the current County Attorney’s office will be changing leadership with the
election in November, we find ourselves in a unique position.&nbsp; It will be interesting to see what the new
County Attorney’s evaluation of office staffing is after six months in office.&nbsp; I’m sure that will be a discussion during the
budget presentation for the 2021 budget.&nbsp;
Should the new County Attorney share the same concerns, I would be more
than willing to evaluate our options to make the department run in a more
effective manner. 

CANDIDATE PROFILE Ellis County Commission: Kerry McCue

OSBORNE COUNTY — The Osborne County Health Department reported Wednesday that a participant at the Osborne County Fair on July 25 has tested positive for COVID-19.

"If you attended the fair Saturday evening, please notify your health care provider if you develop symptoms of COVID, the department said in a social media release. "The participant was not a Osborne County resident, and we do not have any active Covid cases in the county at this time."

OSBORNE COUNTY — The Osborne County Health Department reported Wednesday that a participant at the Osborne County Fair on July 25 has tested positive for COVID-19."If you attended the fair Saturday evening, please notify your health care provider if you develop symptoms of COVID, the department said in a social media release. "The participant was not a Osborne County resident, and we do not have any active Covid cases in the county at this time."<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fosbhd%2Fposts%2F1479594852225302&width=500" width="500" height="233" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Osborne Co. fair participant tests positive for coronavirus

The rain continues to fall in this wet month for Hays.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe rain continues to fall in this wet month for Hays.Hays received another .52 inches of rain overnight for a total rainfall for July of 6.97 inches. The average rainfall for July in Hays is 3.33 inches.Hays has received 16.62 inches of moisture year to date compared to an average of 14.68 inches by the end of July.During the storm, winds reached 38 mph at 10 meters from the ground, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.The forecast for Hays for today is showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3 p.m. — cloudy, with a high near 78. The chance of precipitation is 70 percent with new rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch of rain possible.&nbsp;More thunderstorms are forecast for tonight mainly before 1 a.m. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New rainfall amounts are forecast between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.The rain is forecast to stop over the weekend with mild temperatures in the upper 70s and low 80s through Sunday. Chances of rain return Sunday night and Monday, according to the National Weather Service.