By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
Hays city commissioners approved the 2026 street maintenance plan during a short meeting on Thursday.
The total amount of recommended bids and other in-house projects was $953,479, paid from the special highway fund in cash.
The total was almost $136,000 under budget. The remaining funds will be used for additional curb and brick repairs and pavement markings.
The largest project will be replacing several concrete panels on Fort Street between 22nd and 27th streets.
The other significant rehabilitation project scheduled this year is the reconstruction of the 500 block of Oak Street.
During commissioner comments at the end of the meeting, David Vilaysing asked city staff to research potential changes to the city's pet licensing requirements to reduce costs and time spent.
The city brings in about $14,000 a year in pet license fees.
"But most pet owners already go out and buy their own pet tags, which have owner contact information," Vilaysing said. "Many pets are now microchipped with pet and owner identification."
Vilaysing suggested revising the city ordinance to require that pet owners have their animals microchipped or provide identifying owner information.
"It would not only save the city money and staff time in the city clerk's office, but also for police officers and dispatch."
Staff will investigate options and bring the issue forward during a future work session.