By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
"Stuff is getting done, with the collaboration we have with the county and the school district," Grow Hays Executive Director told the Hays City Commission Thursday.
Shaun Musil, Hays city commissioner, was pleased with the momentum of the city's economic development in 2025 following a review during Thursday's work session.
"It takes a progressive commission—at the city level, the county level, the school board, and all their departments—it takes a lot of people to make this happen," Williams said.
He opened his review by listing 20 building projects started or completed in Hays last year.
Eight multi-unit housing projects are underway, and 17 building permits have been approved for single-family homes.
"But we're still short," Williams said, "and there's no real relief in sight for 2026. We have a shortage of lots."
He said the apartments in town have a low vacancy rate, and it all results in "a strong need for more housing."
SEE RELATED STORY: Grow Hays: City making progress but demand still outpacing supply
Expansion and retention of existing businesses last year was also discussed.
Retail recruitment will continue in 2026 with a focus on the solicitation of tenants for the new $15 million shopping center project next to Home Depot.
"We have some tenants identified ... They want to be here," Williams said.
David Vilaysing, commissioner, said, "I appreciate all the work you've done. You've definitely done some good things for business and the economy here."
Williams also touched on property taxes, which the state legislature will be addressing this session.
"We keep hearing that they're 'too high', and I understand property taxes are too high for some residents," he said, "but compared to what?"
Williams went on to break down where property taxes go in Ellis County and compared Hays to similar towns in Kansas.
"If you think you're going to move to Dodge City, Garden City or Lawrence because you're going to have a lower property tax, you're sadly mistaken. ... Hays is well below other peer communities," Williams said.
"We're fortunate here because we have a strong commercial tax base, and that keeps our mill levy low. You pay for the city's general fund through sales tax. Everything kind of works better here because of some of that."
Financial Management Policy revisions
Kim Rupp, director of finance, presented his recommended revisions to the Comprehensive Financial Management Policy. The last update was in December 2021.
Rupp suggested setting a $3 million cap on the budget stabilization reserve fund.
"History has proven the city’s budgeted unreserved fund balance, commission capital reserve and budget stabilization reserve have been sufficient to fund unforeseen emergency needs," Rupp said.
Commisioners will vote on the proposed revisions at the Jan. 22 meeting.