Ellis Co. Commission to discuss law enforcement center project, solar farm

By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will consider approving bids and purchase orders for renovation of the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center during its 8:30 a.m. meeting Tuesday.

The project is intended to prepare the building for the expansion of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office after the Hays Police Department vacates part of the facility later this year.

Renovations are expected to begin this summer and be completed by mid-2027. Planned changes include converting the former police reception area into a training room, creating bonding rooms for inmates and adding a secure meeting room for High Plains Mental Health Center staff and children involved in incidents.

The basement will also undergo minor renovations to move the Ellis County 911 dispatch center into a larger room, which is currently used as a training room.

Tallgrass Solar Development permit discussion

Commissioners also will discuss the proposed Tallgrass Solar Development and related project documents, including a conditional-use permit and contribution agreement. No action will be taken.

The commission requested the documents be placed on the agenda for public discussion and input. Members of the public wishing to speak will be able to sign up before the meeting begins.

The proposed solar project from ibV Energy Partners would be west of Mount Pleasant and Yocemento Road.

Other business

• Commission seeking potential land options in Ellis for a future combined EMS and fire station project

• Ellis County Landfill will propose a trial "Tire Amnesty Day" on June 13 to help reduce illegally dumped tires along county roads and ditches

• Ellis County Health Department will give an update on a Kansas Regional Chronic Disease Intelligence & Action Pilot Program Grant submission

• Consideration to waive waste fees for the Wild West Festival

You can view the full agenda here.