By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The city ordinance regarding the sale and use of fireworks in Hays will not change, for now.
The fireworks policy allows the sale and use of common fireworks from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 2 through July 4, unless suspended due to adverse weather conditions or safety concerns. The regulations have been in place since 2012.
City commissioners could not reach a consensus on any changes to the policy during their work session on Thursday.
Commissioner Reese Barrick expressed concern about the loud noises and their detrimental effects on some people and pets. He suggested limiting fireworks use to Independence Day only.
"Maybe we can restrict this a little bit, still have our fun, have that celebratory event without extending it so long," Barrick said.
He agreed with the other commissioners that the trash residue was also an issue.
Hays resident Ken Kennedy told the commission he doesn't shoot any fireworks but wakes up to a yard filled with debris from neighbors' shooting them each year.
A public poll in May showed no desire to make any major changes to the current policy.
Industrial Revenue Bonds issuance
Other agenda items included discussion of ordinances to authorize the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for Agiliti and Vernie's Trux-N-Equip.
Agiliti, a medical equipment manufacturer on South Commerce Parkway, plans to buy, renovate, and expand its campus buildings. A total of 140 new jobs would be added in phases to the current 91 positions.
The utilization of industrial revenue bonds, which have no taxpayer commitment, allows a property tax abatement for up to 10 years for the $6.55-million project.
The new location of Vernie's Trux-N-Equip is on six acres northwest of the intersection of 48th Street and General Hays Road, the site of the former Hays Livestock sales barn.
The developer is asking for the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for the $2.2 million project. No property tax abatement is requested. A community improvement district is also sought.
Both items were moved on to the Dec. 11 meeting for a vote.
Construction engineering services contract
Tom Howie, project manager, presented a bid from Driggs Design Group for the Interstate 70, Exit 161, infrastructure project. Driggs had the low bid of $38,632. The project will be funded from general obligation bonds.
The initial new infrastructure would serve about 11 buildable lots, ranging in size from 2 to 8 acres, for commercial and residential development on the city-owned 90-acre property.
The bid will be voted on next week.
Pool reimbursement request
Following a review of its pool season operation, the Hays Recreation Commission requested a 50% reimbursement for its operating loss, as outlined in the pool services agreement with the city. The city would pay $25,501 to the recreation commission from the 2025 General Fund Pool Budget.
The request will be voted on next week.