By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
As the temperature began warming up last month for the summer season, the city of Hays turned its focus to outdoor projects for many departments.
An unwanted consequence of the hotter weather is water leaks.
Water leaks last month resulted in the replacement of street concrete and bricks in several areas of town.
"Obviously, when it's very warm the ground shifts which often creates breaks in the water lines. It's not uncommon at all, unfortunately," said Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, during the June progress report to city commissioners.
Bielser ran through some of the June projects and work highlights by city departments.
In addition to hosting an open house about the new fire station to be built at 1732 W. 41st, the Hays Fire Department members underwent training for trench collapse rescue, along with Ellis County rural firefighters, and live fire fighting during June.
East Frontier Park has a new parking lot, including drainage for stormwater runoff.
A new batting cage outside the Larks Park spectator area has been constructed. The Hays Baseball Association provided $20,000 in funding for the project.
Prior to the Hays Larks season opening, artificial turf was replaced at the pitcher's mound and the catcher's receiving area.
Two Hays police officers, Cpl. Brandon Bell and Sgt. Jason Bonczynski, were recognized for their lifesaving actions.
The stormwater division of the Department of Water Resources has a new mascot, "Stormwater Dog Chetolah." The furry blue dog is named after Chetolah Creek which runs through Hays and who will appear alongside "WaterSmart Wally" in promoting water conservation at various public events and in schools.