By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
The Ellis County Public Works director discussed plans for road repairs and improvements on 48th Street, Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway at Tuesday's Ellis County Commission meeting.
Public Works Director Brendan Mackay presented repairs that involve milling the existing asphalt and applying hot mix asphalt layers to extend the road's lifespan. The Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway improvements focus on upgrading the surface to asphalt and drainage upgrades.
The commissioners provided direction, agreeing to move forward with Bettis Asphalt & Construction and confirming the city's contribution of $377,000 for the projects. Construction is expected to begin in August.
Traffic lights at Canterbury Drive and Old Highway 40 intersection
Commissioner Neal Younger requested a review of the turn signals at the Highway 40 and Canterbury Drive intersection. The recently installed westbound traffic pole includes extra wiring to potentially add left-turn signals in the future.
"I'm going to be in favor of this. I foresee an increase in traffic when the school district changes their school location," Commissioner Nathan Leiker said.
The commissioners reviewed funding and the project timeline with Public Works Director Brendan Mackay, acknowledging the project's necessity due to recent accidents and the need for preventative measures.
Other business
The commission approved two fire brush truck upgrades, which will involve transferring their utility bodies onto new Ford F-550 chassis.
County commissioners authorized the sale of items from multiple departments through Purplewave, an online auction platform.
The commissioners approved the annual noxious weed report and 2025 management plan.
Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health, discussed the state of mental health services in the region and plans to open a crisis intervention center in Hays.
Amanda Rupp of the Ellis County Historical Society provided an update on the organization's current projects and funding challenges.