By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
The Ellis County Commission approved the 2026 budget with a mill levy increase of 1.96 mills during its Tuesday meeting.
A public hearing provided taxpayers the chance to give input on the general fund and fire district, both of which exceed the revenue-neutral rate. The budget process began in March.
The general fund mill levy increase will bring the total general fund expenditures to $34.7 million. The mill levy increase will require a homeowner with a house appraised at $100,000 to pay $22 more per year, and a homeowner with a house appraised at $200,000 to pay $45 more per year.
SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Commission discusses final budget draft with mill levy increase
Several residents urged the commission to remain revenue-neutral, warning that tax burdens would be imposed on homeowners and businesses. Resident Mark Hess said the commission was breaking campaign promises to keep spending in check.
"It is imperative for the commission to look back at the budget and to make some of those tougher calls that you guys are elected to do," Hess said. "True leadership means honoring your commitments, holding every budget line to performance standards and having the discipline to say no when necessary."
Resident John Pyle described himself as an “overtaxed citizen,” saying that his property taxes increased from $3,600 to $5,800 over the last five years. He shared valuation numbers and suggested commissioners look at alternative revenue sources.
Darin Myers, county administrator, said the mill levy increase was necessary to prepare for possible federal grant reductions. Commissioner Nathan Leiker emphasized the commission devoted significant time to identifying areas where spending could be reduced.
"We as commissioners spent one day alone, almost 13 hours, going through each department, item by item, justifying costs and adjustments," Leiker said.
Myers said about $770,000 was trimmed during a budget meeting, but some items were later reinstated. Commissioner Neal Younger said while county spending is high, it supports 18 services.
"Whether it be an ambulance, road and bridge, noxious weeds, mental health, that's where a lot of money goes to," Younger said.
Adam Pray, a developer, complimented the commission's efforts but recommended exploring sales taxes to help shift some of the costs to visitors.
Personnel policy change for retiree insurance
The county approved a personnel policy change regarding retiree health insurance, as mandated by a Kansas statute.
The law requires local governments that offer health insurance also to make the coverage available to retirees and their dependents, provided they apply within 30 days of retirement, have at least 10 years of employment with a local government and retired after Dec. 31, 1988.
Coverage ends when the retiree reaches 65 years old, premiums are not paid, or the retiree gains coverage under another employer's plan.
New electronic health record for Ellis County Health Department
The county health department received approval to purchase a new electronic health record system, replacing an outdated one. The five-year purchase price of about $77,100 will be prepaid using Workforce Development Grant funds and will have no impact on the general fund.
Other business
A homeowner received approval from the commission to use a county easement in Commerce Estates to build a private road that would provide access to his property. The homeowner will be responsible for funding, building and maintaining the road.