By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
Hays city commissioners will take a closer look at outside agency funding requests made for city funding next year.
Thursday's work session will include the second overview of the proposed 2027 budget by Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.
Most of the social service agencies have kept their requested amounts for 2027 the same as last year.
Two of the groups have substantially increased their asks, while one lowered its request.
DSNWK ACCESS Public Transportation, which received funding from the CARE Council through 2026, has asked for $190,531 from the city, up $108,031 from the $82,500 they received in 2026.
ACCESS Public Transportation discontinued its Sunday ride service beginning July 1 due to budget constraints.
Also asking for more money is the Ellis County Historical Society, from the $21,116 it has been awarded each year since 2023, up to $31,700, an increase of $10,584.
The CARE Council is asking for less in 2027, $92,000 instead of the $97,500 it received in 2026. That's a decrease of $5,500.
The total amount requested in city funding in 2027 is $684,231, an increase of $113,115 from 2026.
161 First Addition
An application has been submitted for the final plat of 161 First Addition at the northeast corner of the exit 161 Interstate 70 interchange. The property is owned by the city of Hays.
The proposed final plat includes two blocks with a total of 13 lots ranging in size from 1.2 to 9.7 acres. The Hays Area Planning Commission and city staff recommended final plat approval.
Chick-fil-A industrial revenue bonds
Construction of a new Chick-fil-A quick service restaurant at 3404 Vine is substantially complete.
The developer requested industrial revenue bonds (IRBs) for the project, allowing a sales tax exemption for all purchases related to the construction. On March 26, 2026, the commission adopted a resolution of intent for the IRBs.
Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, will present an ordinance to authorize the issuance of the IRBs.
No property tax abatement is requested.
The complete July 16 agenda is available here.
The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.