By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Hays Municipal Court introduces its newest court clerk, a rising professional in law and order.
Megan Kisner, a Junction City native, moved to attend Fort Hays State University before finding herself managing police records and greeting everyone who arrived at the Hays Police Department.
"I really wanted to learn a lot more about law enforcement and the legal system. This was a really good fit for me to learn about something I was interested in," Kisner said.
Kisner spent over a year as a police records clerk before transitioning to the municipal court on Feb. 16, bringing experience from her previous role.
Kisner said the police department and municipal court offices are cross-trained. Both are located under the Hays Police Department building.
Eager to take on new challenges, Kisner embraces new responsibilities, including court attendance, legal paperwork, and regular communication with attorneys and defendants.
"It'll be a learning curve for myself," she said.
Kisner grew fond of Hays and the region, which influenced her to stay. Three months ago, she married a local farmer, further solidifying her ties to the community.
Kisner earned an associate's degree in general business, which she credits with providing valuable skills that can be applied across various professions.
"Business classes are essential for anybody in any career. You learn about effective communication, management and marketing," she said.
Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler highlighted several staffing changes, including a new city prosecutor, which has delayed some cases and added to the municipal court’s backlog.
"That's a bit of a challenge, but I'm excited for Megan. She's a really good fit for the position," Scheibler said.
Kisner appreciates remaining in the same office with her colleagues and does not see herself going anywhere as she focuses on the court's growth.
"I'm very happy just staying in this position that I have been promoted to. I think there's a lot of growth that can be done within the municipal court, and there's a lot of exciting opportunities," she said.