Hays Development News
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Development News from the latest meeting
Community Events Calendar Full, New CVB Director Introduced
Several community events and initiatives were highlighted. The CVB partnered with various organizations for events like the picnic in the park, a World Cup watch party, and support for the Hayes Larks baseball team. The CVB also welcomed new CVB Director Nikki Brown, who is taking over from Melissa Dixon. The Wild West Festival is approaching, seeking volunteers and offering concert tickets. The Ellis County Fair, a Buck Cherry concert, and a Love Grass concert series are also upcoming. The Hayes Community Theater will present Annie, and a Bazaar on the Bricks sidewalk sale is scheduled. The Big Boy locomotive is expected to pass through town, and a USSA softball tournament is taking place with 74 teams.
Public Hearing Set for Lincoln School RHID Project
The City Commission considered a resolution to set a public hearing for the establishment of a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) for the former Lincoln School property. Local developer Mike Graham purchased the property and plans to convert the school into 26-28 apartments and construct seven fourplexes. The RHID will be used to offset development costs, with revenue captured from incremental property taxes for up to 25 years. The development plan includes the RHID boundaries, project details, and a financial analysis showing an estimated $1 million in tax increment revenue over 25 years, against eligible costs of $4.3 million, meaning the developer will cover nearly 80% of the costs. The project also involves an application for an Industrial Revenue Bond (IRB) sales tax exemption on construction materials. The public hearing is expected in early August, followed by a 30-day veto period for the county and school district.
Pedestrian Safety Enhanced, Roadwork Progresses Across City
A new Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon (RRFB) pedestrian crossing system has been installed on Hall Street adjacent to O'Laughlin to enhance pedestrian safety. Additionally, the Service Division widened 13th Street just west of Commerce to add a dedicated three-lane turn lane. Repairs were also made to concrete at 27th and Plaza, and 33rd Street and Broadway. The multi-use path is nearing completion, with sections from Hall to Vine almost done, though rain has caused some mud and dirt accumulation on the surface. The west section is expected to open soon. The reconstruction of Oak Street between 5th and 6th is progressing and expected to be completed by mid-July. The Exit 161 project is on schedule, with water and sewer sleeves bored under I-70, and sewer line installation along Commerce Parkway continuing. At the airport, a sidewalk extension connects to the terminal, and paved parking spaces have been installed for hangar tenants. The Crosswood Runway reconstruction project is underway and on schedule for completion by October 8th, weather permitting.
City Commission Enters Executive Session for Financial Discussions
The City Commission entered into an executive session to discuss data relating to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships. No action was taken during the executive session, and the meeting adjourned shortly after returning to open session. Prior to the executive session, the Commission considered and approved several items, including bond issuance authorization, property liability coverage renewal, and setting a public hearing for a housing incentive district.
Public Safety Personnel Undergo Training and Community Engagement
Deputy Chief Shane Preston attended an expert witness courtroom testimony class. Two new firefighters, Dylan Scheibler and Zane Stipe, completed requirements to become certified EMT personnel. Corporal Ethan Henderson and Officer Lindser attended a picnic in the park, interacting with the public and allowing children to explore police vehicles. Officers Devin Henderson and Martha Saldana completed basic training at the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and are back for on-duty training. Deputy Chief Tim Greenwood and Detective J.B. Burkholder presented at a joint meeting for law enforcement professionals from various Kansas associations.
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The Hays News archive
Hays City Commission Meeting June 25, 2026
City Commission Work Session Agenda Packet (PDF) - 6/18/2026
Regular Meeting - Jun 15 2026
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