<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Karissa Frasier about her new position as Community Health Worker with the K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Ellis County.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Meet the new Community Health Worker for the Cottonwood Extension District" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=c24cx-18d3283-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Karissa Frasier about her new position as Community Health Worker with the K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Ellis County.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Meet new Community Health Worker for Cottonwood Extension District

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about St. John's Place in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays - St. John's Place" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=cjdnk-18d770f-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about St. John's Place in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p>Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses St. John's Place in Victoria

<b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i>

The Hays City Commission on Thursday approved a $5.9 million contract with PWC to renovate the former Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, into a new police/municipal court facility.

PWC, Hays, was awarded the design-build contract for a guaranteed maximum price. The project will provide the police station with more than twice the operational space it has. The city currently rents space from the county. 

The new facility will give the city room for growth. The space should be adequate for about 20 years. If the city needs to expand further, it could build in the lot's courtyard, which would extend the building's life by another 30 years.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs lauded the project, saying it is saving taxpayers about $4.5 million compared to building a new facility from the ground up.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said, "When we started the project, we wanted to do it right. We wanted to have space for future growth and keep on budget."

"We are very happy with where we are at," he said of the project.

Astra Bank is constructing a new facility at 27th and Main, which is expected to be open by Sept. 1.

The commission approved new cemetery fees, with most doubling in price.

Jeff Boyle, director of Parks, said the fees had not been updated in about 20 years. Most of the fees were below the cost of the services.

The proposed prices will place the city near the middle of the pack in terms of other Kansas communities of the same size.

However, Boyle said the fees are still only at about a break-even point. He said the cemetery is still operating at a deficit.

The new fee structure will bring the average burial and headstone placement cost to $1,040.

Jacobs said the city needs to continue reviewing fees for all departments so the community is not faced with such significant increases.

The other commissioners agreed, saying they appreciated the review, but hoped fee increases could be more gradual in the future.

The city commission approved a low bid for a new LED marquee sign for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine.

The old sign was built to last eight years and lasted 16, said Melissa Dixon, CVB executive director. The deteriorated sign, installed in 2007, has been dark for two years. Dixon said the message software is no longer supported.

Commercial Sign, Hays, was the low bidder at $44,773.

About 18,000 vehicles per day pass through the intersection of 27th and Vine streets.

Dixon said the sign was the first impression Hays gave most visitors.

Jacobs said it is a great way to tell the Hays story.

The city will pay a 30% increase in the premium for its 2025-2026 property/liability insurance policy renewal.&nbsp;

Kim Rupp, finance director, said the city has experienced major claims from wind and hail over the last few years, which have driven up the cost of insurance.

The city's property was recently revalued, which also contributed to the increase.

Rupp said the staff intends to actively pursue the remarketing process for the renewal in 2026-2027, including an examination of hybrid coverage and self-funding.

The commission was slated to discuss backyard chickens during its next work session, but has pushed that agenda item into July to allow all of the commission members to be present.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749834574599.png" alt="Hays Police Station. Courtesy image" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Police Station. Courtesy image</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: City commission recap" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=pghim-18d7793-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The Hays City Commission on Thursday approved a $5.9 million contract with PWC to renovate the former Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, into a new police/municipal court facility.</p><p>PWC, Hays, was awarded the design-build contract for a guaranteed maximum price. The project will provide the police station with more than twice the operational space it has. The city currently rents space from the county. </p><p>The new facility will give the city room for growth. The space should be adequate for about 20 years. If the city needs to expand further, it could build in the lot's courtyard, which would extend the building's life by another 30 years.</p><p>Mayor Sandy Jacobs lauded the project, saying it is saving taxpayers about $4.5 million compared to building a new facility from the ground up.</p><p>Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said, "When we started the project, we wanted to do it right. We wanted to have space for future growth and keep on budget."</p><p>"We are very happy with where we are at," he said of the project.</p><p>Astra Bank is constructing a new facility at 27th and Main, which is expected to be open by Sept. 1.</p><h2>Cemetery fees</h2><p>The commission approved new cemetery fees, with most doubling in price.</p><p>Jeff Boyle, director of Parks, said the fees had not been updated in about 20 years. Most of the fees were below the cost of the services.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749652979894.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749653001784.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The proposed prices will place the city near the middle of the pack in terms of other Kansas communities of the same size.</p><p>However, Boyle said the fees are still only at about a break-even point. He said the cemetery is still operating at a deficit.</p><p>The new fee structure will bring the average burial and headstone placement cost to $1,040.</p><p>Jacobs said the city needs to continue reviewing fees for all departments so the community is not faced with such significant increases.</p><p>The other commissioners agreed, saying they appreciated the review, but hoped fee increases could be more gradual in the future.</p><h2>Welcome sign</h2><p>The city commission approved a low bid for a new LED marquee sign for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine.</p><p>The old sign was built to last eight years and lasted 16, said Melissa Dixon, CVB executive director. The deteriorated sign, installed in 2007, has been dark for two years. Dixon said the message software is no longer supported.</p><p>Commercial Sign, Hays, was the low bidder at $44,773.</p><p>About 18,000 vehicles per day pass through the intersection of 27th and Vine streets.</p><p>Dixon said the sign was the first impression Hays gave most visitors.</p><p>Jacobs said it is a great way to tell the Hays story.</p><h2>Insurance</h2><p>The city will pay a 30% increase in the premium for its 2025-2026 property/liability insurance policy renewal.&nbsp;</p><p>Kim Rupp, finance director, said the city has experienced major claims from wind and hail over the last few years, which have driven up the cost of insurance.</p><p>The city's property was recently revalued, which also contributed to the increase.</p><p>Rupp said the staff intends to actively pursue the remarketing process for the renewal in 2026-2027, including an examination of hybrid coverage and self-funding.</p><h2>Chickens</h2><p>The commission was slated to discuss backyard chickens during its next work session, but has pushed that agenda item into July to allow all of the commission members to be present.</p>

🎙 City commission approves $5.9 million contract for Hays police/court facility

<i>The "No Bummer Summer Challenge" is underway and youth in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties can enjoy it thanks to the Heartland Community Foundation.</i>

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Sara Meitner, executive director.</i>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d9ba60a-5dde-40be-8cf1-70bdffa7e06e">SEE MORE HERE: Heartland Launched 'No Bummer Summer' challenges for teen and kids across Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties</a>

Flyers with full challenge lists are available on the Heartland Community Foundation’s Facebook page, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or stop by a local HCF office.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: 'No Bummer Summer Challenge'" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=6aukr-18d1994-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>The "No Bummer Summer Challenge" is underway and youth in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties can enjoy it thanks to the Heartland Community Foundation.</i></p><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Sara Meitner, executive director.</i></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d9ba60a-5dde-40be-8cf1-70bdffa7e06e">SEE MORE HERE: Heartland Launched 'No Bummer Summer' challenges for teen and kids across Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties</a></p><p>Flyers with full challenge lists are available on the Heartland Community Foundation’s Facebook page, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or stop by a local HCF office.</p>

🎙Post Podcast: 'No Bummer Summer Challenge'

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Steve Smithers of the Abilene Railroad.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wThfInJo1G4?si=G3Nd_OswCAXvGIqf" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Steve Smithers of the Abilene Railroad.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Travel on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad

<i>It's summer time at Fort Hays State University, and the campus is filled with young campers.</i>

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the Science and Mathematics Education Institute with Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the FHSU College of Education, and Chief Communications Officer Scott Cason discusses the 78th year of the High Plains Band Camp.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Summer camps at Fort Hays State University" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=cnwvd-18cb550-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>It's summer time at Fort Hays State University, and the campus is filled with young campers.</i></p><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the Science and Mathematics Education Institute with Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the FHSU College of Education, and Chief Communications Officer Scott Cason discusses the 78th year of the High Plains Band Camp.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Summer camps at Fort Hays State University

<b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Behind the secured doors of the Ellis County Jail, day-to-day life runs on routine, respect and a commitment to safety, according to an Ellis County detention lieutenant.

Ellis County Detention Lt. Dustin Barnes said the 72-bed jail in the center of Hays operates differently than many people might assume.

"It's not like you see on TV. Especially nowadays. It's not throwing them in the cell and throwing away the keys," Barnes said.

The jail houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing and serving short-term sentences. Staff also manage inmate transports to the Kansas Department of Corrections when required and are responsible for access to health care within the facility.

Officers rotate through day, evening and night shifts, handling responsibilities ranging from court scheduling to housekeeping. Barnes said the jail has 18 detention officers, with someone always keeping watch.

"At any given time, we have at least three on staff," Barnes said. "Always a minimum of three as one person has to sit at the control center and maintain coverage of cameras, doors and intercoms."

Safety measures include a multi-door security system and officers equipped with tasers. Barnes said detention officers do not carry the same gear as patrol officers as a precaution.

"Guns are not allowed in the detention center just for the off chance that someone gets hold of one of them," he said. "We also don't use pepper spray on the jail floor. ... We would pretty much be taking out an entire pod if we used it."

At a recent <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0afd692a-c0a3-4262-b7a9-87337cdeaada">Ellis County Commission meeting</a>, Sheriff Scott Braun received approval to purchase 16 stab-proof vests for detention officers. Barnes said the department had applied for a grant to get them.

Barnes said the booking process involves bringing arrestees through a secure garage, moving them into a pre-booking room, and collecting and storing their personal belongings.

Within the two-floor jail, inmates are separated based on behavior, with dormitory-style areas reserved for lower-level offenders who may even show courtesy to officers despite the circumstances.

"They're human beings. They've made a mistake, are paying their debt to society and are going through their court proceedings. It's sort of a give-and-take respect sort of thing," Barnes said.

The county jail works with outside organizations such as High Plains Mental Health to provide care for inmates with mental health needs.

Barnes has worked in the county jail for six years. He said detention officer training includes a one-week jail academy in Hutchinson and 20 hours of continuing online education. Officers can request additional training if they choose.

You can view the Ellis County Jail booking logs posted weekly <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">here</a>.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733777655657.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Ellis County Jail Lieutenant shares daily operations and procedures" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bruad-18c9b8c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div><p><b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Behind the secured doors of the Ellis County Jail, day-to-day life runs on routine, respect and a commitment to safety, according to an Ellis County detention lieutenant.</p><p>Ellis County Detention Lt. Dustin Barnes said the 72-bed jail in the center of Hays operates differently than many people might assume.</p><p>"It's not like you see on TV. Especially nowadays. It's not throwing them in the cell and throwing away the keys," Barnes said.</p><p>The jail houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing and serving short-term sentences. Staff also manage inmate transports to the Kansas Department of Corrections when required and are responsible for access to health care within the facility.</p><p>Officers rotate through day, evening and night shifts, handling responsibilities ranging from court scheduling to housekeeping. Barnes said the jail has 18 detention officers, with someone always keeping watch.</p><p>"At any given time, we have at least three on staff," Barnes said. "Always a minimum of three as one person has to sit at the control center and maintain coverage of cameras, doors and intercoms."</p><p>Safety measures include a multi-door security system and officers equipped with tasers. Barnes said detention officers do not carry the same gear as patrol officers as a precaution.</p><p>"Guns are not allowed in the detention center just for the off chance that someone gets hold of one of them," he said. "We also don't use pepper spray on the jail floor. ... We would pretty much be taking out an entire pod if we used it."</p><p>At a recent <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0afd692a-c0a3-4262-b7a9-87337cdeaada">Ellis County Commission meeting</a>, Sheriff Scott Braun received approval to purchase 16 stab-proof vests for detention officers. Barnes said the department had applied for a grant to get them.</p><p>Barnes said the booking process involves bringing arrestees through a secure garage, moving them into a pre-booking room, and collecting and storing their personal belongings.</p><p>Within the two-floor jail, inmates are separated based on behavior, with dormitory-style areas reserved for lower-level offenders who may even show courtesy to officers despite the circumstances.</p><p>"They're human beings. They've made a mistake, are paying their debt to society and are going through their court proceedings. It's sort of a give-and-take respect sort of thing," Barnes said.</p><p>The county jail works with outside organizations such as High Plains Mental Health to provide care for inmates with mental health needs.</p><p>Barnes has worked in the county jail for six years. He said detention officer training includes a one-week jail academy in Hutchinson and 20 hours of continuing online education. Officers can request additional training if they choose.</p><p>You can view the Ellis County Jail booking logs posted weekly <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">here</a>.</p>

🎙 Lieutenant shares daily operations of Ellis County Jail

Open a browser on your mobile device and visit the website at <a href="https://hayspost.com">https://hayspost.com</a>.&nbsp; Add it to the Home screen on your mobile device for the best possible experience.&nbsp; Here’s a screenshot that shows you how:

<p>Open a browser on your mobile device and visit the website at <a href="https://hayspost.com">https://hayspost.com</a>.&nbsp; Add it to the Home screen on your mobile device for the best possible experience.&nbsp; Here’s a screenshot that shows you how:</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722009103461.png" alt="Hays Post.png" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Post.png</figcaption>
                    </figure>

How to get full Hays Post experience on your mobile

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney discusses the new Chamber in Hays Workforce Development Committee with Leigh Purdy with the Chamber and Ben Shears with Fort Hays State University on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: The Chamber" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=gmy64-18c6c33-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney discusses the new Chamber in Hays Workforce Development Committee with Leigh Purdy with the Chamber and Ben Shears with Fort Hays State University on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Chamber in Hays discusses new Workforce Development Committee

<i>On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;</i><i>Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney talks with&nbsp;</i><i><a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executive Brian Weimer and Tiffany Zimmerman about insuring boats and RVS.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: IPI - Boat, RV, Camper Coverage" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=qgzxv-18c8583-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;</i><i>Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney talks with&nbsp;</i><i><a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executive Brian Weimer and Tiffany Zimmerman about insuring boats and RVS.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Insurance Planning on insuring your boat, RV

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney asks Doug Williams of Grow Hays questions from our listeners on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

Please submit your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Answering Listener Questions with Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=97g37-18c2c84-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney asks Doug Williams of Grow Hays questions from our listeners on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p>Please submit your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays answers questions about Microfactory

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about snacking and metabolism with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.</i>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: How your metabolism works" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=ahtwi-18b721d-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about snacking and metabolism with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: How your metabolism works

Do you want to know more about housing in Ellis County?

Why won't my favorite business come to Hays?

How can I qualify for help with opening a new business?

Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, will answer your questions on economic development and business recruitment during his live weekly show with reporter Cristina Janney on Friday morning.&nbsp;

Send your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com Subject line: Doug ?s

Grow Hays is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing Hays' economic health and vitality and the surrounding communities. Grow Hays focuses on one simple mission:&nbsp;the economic growth and well- being of the community.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Do you want to know more about housing in Ellis County?</p><p>Why won't my favorite business come to Hays?</p><p>How can I qualify for help with opening a new business?</p><p>Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, will answer your questions on economic development and business recruitment during his live weekly show with reporter Cristina Janney on Friday morning.&nbsp;</p><p>Send your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com Subject line: Doug ?s</p><p>Grow Hays is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing Hays' economic health and vitality and the surrounding communities. Grow Hays focuses on one simple mission:&nbsp;the economic growth and well- being of the community.</p>

Send us your ?s for the Grow Hays KAYS morning show/Post Podcast

<i>On this episode of the Podt Podcast, Hays Post reporter Tony Guerrero discusses the county law enforcement center and other county issues with Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers and Ellis County Commissioner Nathan Leiker.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Ellis County Commission Report" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=me7jh-18b58a9-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Podt Podcast, Hays Post reporter Tony Guerrero discusses the county law enforcement center and other county issues with Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers and Ellis County Commissioner Nathan Leiker.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis County Commission to remodel law enforcement center

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about tax incentives on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

Williams will be answering questions from readers and listeners during the next Grow Hays interview at 8:45 a.m. Friday on the Morning Blend on KAYS, 1400 AM, 94.3 FM.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays - Tax Incentives" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=yz5zw-18b8a60-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about tax incentives on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p>Williams will be answering questions from readers and listeners during the next Grow Hays interview at 8:45 a.m. Friday on the Morning Blend on KAYS, 1400 AM, 94.3 FM.</p><p>Please submit your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams discusses tax incentives

<i>It's time for </i><a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/summer-classes">Sizzlin' Summer 2025 </a><i>at the Hays Arts Council. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director, about the variety of classes for children.</i>

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
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                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: It's a Sizzlin' Summer at the Hays Arts Council" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=jssc3-18b57ca-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>It's time for </i><a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/summer-classes">Sizzlin' Summer 2025 </a><i>at the Hays Arts Council. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director, about the variety of classes for children.</i></p><figure>
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🎙Post Podcast: It's a Sizzlin' Summer at the Hays Arts Council

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Dr. Will Parker about prostate cancer.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tAd08G_LhAQ?si=ITpgQzlSamNnX43N" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Dr. Will Parker about prostate cancer.</i></p>

🎤 Foward Ever: Dr. Will Parker on prostate cancer

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, about professional development courses on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: The Chamber in Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=nawrp-18b26fe-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of the Chamber in Hays, about professional development courses on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Chamber in Hays to offer professional development courses

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Micki Armstrong and Monique Koerner, board members of "A Different Mindset" about the upcoming Wacky Sport Scramble, a fundraiser for the dementia awareness organization.&nbsp;</i>

<i>Koerner, the Cottonwood District family and community wellness extension agent, also talks about the QPR Institute for suicide prevention training on May 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
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                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Wacky Sport Scramble fundraiser for 'A Different Mindset'" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=2imbz-18ab61f-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Micki Armstrong and Monique Koerner, board members of "A Different Mindset" about the upcoming Wacky Sport Scramble, a fundraiser for the dementia awareness organization.&nbsp;</i></p><p><i>Koerner, the Cottonwood District family and community wellness extension agent, also talks about the QPR Institute for suicide prevention training on May 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p><figure>
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🎙 Wacky Sport Scramble fundraiser for 'A Different Mindset' 

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Kyle Carlin, director of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Special Education" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bhz33-18ad015-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Kyle Carlin, director of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Kyle Carlin on special education

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about Vine Street development on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays - Vine Street Development" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=fyfyd-18ae83c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about Vine Street development on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays update on Vine St. development

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Curtis Hammeke, retiring Fort Hays State University athletic director.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eKor2_uvais?si=FxrGub12G5xzsKLK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Curtis Hammeke, retiring Fort Hays State University athletic director.</i></p>

🎤 Foward Ever: Curtis Hammeke, FHSU athletics director

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director about spring application deadlines for grant funding, the Youth Action Council, and Table Talk for non-profit organizations.&nbsp;</i>

<i>They also discuss four new funds that have been opened in the past month.</i>

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
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                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Heartland Community Foundation spring deadlines, new funds" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=btedu-18a9a35-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director about spring application deadlines for grant funding, the Youth Action Council, and Table Talk for non-profit organizations.&nbsp;</i></p><p><i>They also discuss four new funds that have been opened in the past month.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Heartland Community Foundation spring deadlines, new funds

Renovation work will start this summer to convert the current high school into a middle school.

The Hays USD 489 school board heard an update on the Hays Middle School project at its meeting on Monday.

Ishita Banerjii, DLR Group's lead architect on the project, presented plans to the board.

Groups of three classrooms will be renovated into two classrooms with flexible space in between. The current high school classrooms are about 700 square feet. The new layout will include 900-square-foot classrooms.

Bond funds will also be used to install new flooring in the corridors, paint lockers, add new ceilings and lighting and reconfigure visual boards.

All of the exterior doors will also be replaced.

The HVAC system in the current high school was upgraded several years ago. The units were all installed to match the planned sizes of the new classrooms.

Banerjii said minor ductwork will need to be done to reconfigure the HVAC vents to match the new classroom alignment.

The total cost of the renovations is estimated at $6.47 million.&nbsp;

The total bond cost is now at $162.8 million, which is slightly less than at the last report.

Further renovations, amounting to about $445,000, will be completed with capital outlay funds and overseen by the building and grounds department.

Board member Derek Yarmer asked about the building's plumbing. Rusty Lindsay, director of building and grounds, said there were no apparent problems with the plumbing at this time.&nbsp;

The school had received a low score on plumbing before the bond was passed, likely because the HVAC system at that time was causing substantial condensation problems, Lindsay said.

The new HVAC system has eliminated that problem.

Yarmer asked what justified the $500,000 fee for DLR.&nbsp;Banerjii said the current project accounted for $150,000. The rest involved drawings for the previous scope of the project, which was a larger $10 million project.

The budgets for Felten Elementary School and the new middle school were reduced when the high school's budget increased,&nbsp;Banerjii said.

The buildings and grounds work will likely occur in three phases. The first phase will occur this summer before Nabholz Construction starts its bond work in August.

Phase one will include painting 12 classrooms, replacing ceiling tiles and floors. The cost of this phase will be $225,000.

Phase two of the buildings and grounds work will include work in the current locker room area. One of the locker rooms will be renovated into bathrooms.

A paint area will be added where the metal shop used to be.

The wood shop for the middle school students will be created where the former high school welding shop was, and a new dust collection system will be added.

Hays Middle School Principal Tom Albers said the new woodshop for the middle school will be about double the space students have at the current middle school.

Some classrooms will also be reconfigured in that area. The total cost of phase two will be $220,000.

The high school will still use the current woodshop and greenhouse. To prevent high school and middle school students from intermingling, a locked door will be between the high school portion of the building and the middle school portion.

The door can be accessed by staff using a key card. The door will still be available as a fire exit in an emergency.

The existing bathrooms in the career and technical education wing will be on the high school side of the building.

A third phase of work in the career tech portion of the building, set for next summer, will include an overhaul of the bathrooms in the locker rooms, Lindsay said. This will also be paid for with capital outlay funds.

The board rejected a renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One for print management, copy machines, support and maintenance for $63,049 per year under the Kansas Board of Regents contract.&nbsp;

The board rejected the contract renewal on a vote of 3-3, with board members Curt Vajnar, Allen Park and Yarmer voting against the contract.

All three said they wanted local bidders to have the option to bid on the contract.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the contract has already been bid through the Kansas Board of Regents contract system. Further bidding would result in a higher price or the district being forced to change its copy management system, which would be disruptive.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747147104018.png" alt="Drawing of the new middle school hallway. Courtesy image" />
                        <figcaption>Drawing of the new middle school hallway. Courtesy image</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Middle School design includes bigger classrooms" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=v29hn-18a9b52-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Renovation work will start this summer to convert the current high school into a middle school.</p><p>The Hays USD 489 school board heard an update on the Hays Middle School project at its meeting on Monday.</p><p>Ishita Banerjii, DLR Group's lead architect on the project, presented plans to the board.</p><p>Groups of three classrooms will be renovated into two classrooms with flexible space in between. The current high school classrooms are about 700 square feet. The new layout will include 900-square-foot classrooms.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747147176712.png" alt="Floor plan for the new middle school shows the renovation of classrooms in yellow, new flooring in green and new entry doors as red dots. Courtesy image" />
                        <figcaption>Floor plan for the new middle school shows the renovation of classrooms in yellow, new flooring in green and new entry doors as red dots. Courtesy image</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Bond funds will also be used to install new flooring in the corridors, paint lockers, add new ceilings and lighting and reconfigure visual boards.</p><p>All of the exterior doors will also be replaced.</p><p>The HVAC system in the current high school was upgraded several years ago. The units were all installed to match the planned sizes of the new classrooms.</p><p>Banerjii said minor ductwork will need to be done to reconfigure the HVAC vents to match the new classroom alignment.</p><p>The total cost of the renovations is estimated at $6.47 million.&nbsp;</p><p>The total bond cost is now at $162.8 million, which is slightly less than at the last report.</p><p>Further renovations, amounting to about $445,000, will be completed with capital outlay funds and overseen by the building and grounds department.</p><p>Board member Derek Yarmer asked about the building's plumbing. Rusty Lindsay, director of building and grounds, said there were no apparent problems with the plumbing at this time.&nbsp;</p><p>The school had received a low score on plumbing before the bond was passed, likely because the HVAC system at that time was causing substantial condensation problems, Lindsay said.</p><p>The new HVAC system has eliminated that problem.</p><p>Yarmer asked what justified the $500,000 fee for DLR.&nbsp;Banerjii said the current project accounted for $150,000. The rest involved drawings for the previous scope of the project, which was a larger $10 million project.</p><p>The budgets for Felten Elementary School and the new middle school were reduced when the high school's budget increased,&nbsp;Banerjii said.</p><p>The buildings and grounds work will likely occur in three phases. The first phase will occur this summer before Nabholz Construction starts its bond work in August.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747148463422.png" alt="The yellow highlighted areas will be in the first phase of the building and grounds work on Hays Middle School. The pink areas are part of the upcoming bond work." />
                        <figcaption>The yellow highlighted areas will be in the first phase of the building and grounds work on Hays Middle School. The pink areas are part of the upcoming bond work.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Phase one will include painting 12 classrooms, replacing ceiling tiles and floors. The cost of this phase will be $225,000.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747148659572.png" alt="Phase 2 of building and grounds renovations. The green areas are being renovated for use by the middle school. The blue area contains the current high school wood shop and will not be renovated." />
                        <figcaption>Phase 2 of building and grounds renovations. The green areas are being renovated for use by the middle school. The blue area contains the current high school wood shop and will not be renovated.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Phase two of the buildings and grounds work will include work in the current locker room area. One of the locker rooms will be renovated into bathrooms.</p><p>A paint area will be added where the metal shop used to be.</p><p>The wood shop for the middle school students will be created where the former high school welding shop was, and a new dust collection system will be added.</p><p>Hays Middle School Principal Tom Albers said the new woodshop for the middle school will be about double the space students have at the current middle school.</p><p>Some classrooms will also be reconfigured in that area. The total cost of phase two will be $220,000.</p><p>The high school will still use the current woodshop and greenhouse. To prevent high school and middle school students from intermingling, a locked door will be between the high school portion of the building and the middle school portion.</p><p>The door can be accessed by staff using a key card. The door will still be available as a fire exit in an emergency.</p><p>The existing bathrooms in the career and technical education wing will be on the high school side of the building.</p><p>A third phase of work in the career tech portion of the building, set for next summer, will include an overhaul of the bathrooms in the locker rooms, Lindsay said. This will also be paid for with capital outlay funds.</p><h2>Copier contract</h2><p>The board rejected a renewal of a five-year lease agreement with Sumner One for print management, copy machines, support and maintenance for $63,049 per year under the Kansas Board of Regents contract.&nbsp;</p><p>The board rejected the contract renewal on a vote of 3-3, with board members Curt Vajnar, Allen Park and Yarmer voting against the contract.</p><p>All three said they wanted local bidders to have the option to bid on the contract.</p><p>Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the contract has already been bid through the Kansas Board of Regents contract system. Further bidding would result in a higher price or the district being forced to change its copy management system, which would be disruptive.</p>

🎙 Hays Middle School design includes bigger classrooms

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Hays High Principal Shawn Henderson about graduation and the move to the new school on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Report" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=m7rpg-18a2dee-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
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 </div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Hays High Principal Shawn Henderson about graduation and the move to the new school on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>