Hear this month's Cheyenne Bottoms show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner that aired Aug. 16, 2023.

The Cheyenne Bottoms Show airs the third Wednesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Cheyenne Bottoms show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner that aired Aug. 16, 2023.<div><iframe title="Cheyenne Bottoms show - Manager Jason Wagner" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3h4du-1480f70-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Cheyenne Bottoms Show airs the third Wednesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Cheyenne Bottoms - Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The 2nd Annual Cast with a Cop will take place Friday,
Aug. 18, at Veterans Lake in Great Bend. Children between the
ages of 8-14 years old can fish with their local law enforcement.


Police Chief Steve Haulmark said the Great Bend Police Department teamed up
with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for a successful event. "KDWP donated the equipment," said Haulmark. "We just put out the word. Between police officers who knew people and families, it turned out to be a really big success. We had a great turnout and had a lot of fun." 
Fishing poles, bait and tackle will be provided but participants are welcome to
bring their own. The event, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., will be held on the south
side of Veterans Lake. "They don't need to bring any supplies," said Haulmark. "There's actually going to be a little tacklebox that we send home with them at the end of the day. We also feed them lunch. It's a good day of hanging out and interacting with the kids." 
With only 30 spots available, registration is required for Friday’s free event
by filling out a form at the police station on Williams Street.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692117005904.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe 2nd Annual Cast with a Cop will take place Friday,
Aug. 18, at Veterans Lake in Great Bend. Children between the
ages of 8-14 years old can fish with their local law enforcement.
Police Chief Steve Haulmark said the Great Bend Police Department teamed up
with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for a successful event. "KDWP donated the equipment," said Haulmark. "We just put out the word. Between police officers who knew people and families, it turned out to be a really big success. We had a great turnout and had a lot of fun." 
Fishing poles, bait and tackle will be provided but participants are welcome to
bring their own. The event, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., will be held on the south
side of Veterans Lake. "They don't need to bring any supplies," said Haulmark. "There's actually going to be a little tacklebox that we send home with them at the end of the day. We also feed them lunch. It's a good day of hanging out and interacting with the kids." 
With only 30 spots available, registration is required for Friday’s free event
by filling out a form at the police station on Williams Street.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Children’s chance to fish with Great Bend police officers

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

At the end of May, Claflin Fire Chief Doug Hubbard asked the Barton County Commission for a transfer of money into Fire District No. 1's special equipment fund. Bids for self-contained air packs came in a little higher than expected, and the department remains about $29,000 short of the purchase. Rather than asking for more money and exceeding revenue neutral in the 2024 budget, Hubbard said the department will continue to wait on grants to purchase the air packs.

"We're not just relying on tax dollars," he told the commission. "We're working pretty hard to get some of the funding that's out there and available."

The district has already made use of grants over tax dollars to purchase bunker gear and an extractor washing machine. Hubbard said the department is working on a local grant and a FEMA grant to help cover the cost of the air packs before making a purchase.

Like the Larned and Hoisington fire departments, District No. 1 did receive a grant from Anheuser-Busch. The good news is the beer maker delivered 96 cases of canned water to the department. The bad news is they look just like adult beverage cans, though the contents are clearly printed on each can.

"If you see us out on a fire scene and you see us drinking out of a can that says Anheueser-Busch, it's water," Hubbard joked.

Fire District No. 1 is located in Claflin and serves the northeast section of the county. The department currently has $101,000 in its special equipment fund, and the air packs carry an expected price tag of $130,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687881773815.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAt the end of May, Claflin Fire Chief Doug Hubbard asked the Barton County Commission for a transfer of money into Fire District No. 1's special equipment fund. Bids for self-contained air packs came in a little higher than expected, and the department remains about $29,000 short of the purchase. Rather than asking for more money and exceeding revenue neutral in the 2024 budget, Hubbard said the department will continue to wait on grants to purchase the air packs."We're not just relying on tax dollars," he told the commission. "We're working pretty hard to get some of the funding that's out there and available."The district has already made use of grants over tax dollars to purchase bunker gear and an extractor washing machine. Hubbard said the department is working on a local grant and a FEMA grant to help cover the cost of the air packs before making a purchase.Like the Larned and Hoisington fire departments, District No. 1 did receive a grant from Anheuser-Busch. The good news is the beer maker delivered 96 cases of canned water to the department. The bad news is they look just like adult beverage cans, though the contents are clearly printed on each can."If you see us out on a fire scene and you see us drinking out of a can that says Anheueser-Busch, it's water," Hubbard joked.Fire District No. 1 is located in Claflin and serves the northeast section of the county. The department currently has $101,000 in its special equipment fund, and the air packs carry an expected price tag of $130,000.

Barton Fire District No. 1 pauses purchase of air packs

On Tuesday, Aug. 15, at about 5:30 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives executed a search warrant at Finer Mobile Home Park located at 5501 9th Street, lot 96 in the City of Great Bend. The search warrant was part of an ongoing investigation related to illegal drugs and outstanding arrest warrants.

Deputies gained entry to the residence without resistance and located Chet Whetham, age 35 of Great Bend. Whetham had outstanding warrants from Harvey County for distribution of fentanyl. 

During the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Officers discovered methamphetamine, fentanyl tablets, marijuana and suspected fentanyl powder. Whetham was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked on the Harvey County warrant as well as requested charges of distribution of fentanyl and various other drug-related charges for Barton County. Whetham is being held in lieu of a $50,000 bond for Harvey County and an additional bond for Barton County.

The Sheriff’s Office had requested assistance from the Kansas Bureau of investigation for this operation. The KBI has recently added several K9s and handlers who are specifically trained in the detection of fentanyl.

Further arrests from the search warrant are anticipated in the near future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692199240545.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, Aug. 15, at about 5:30 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives executed a search warrant at Finer Mobile Home Park located at 5501 9th Street, lot 96 in the City of Great Bend. The search warrant was part of an ongoing investigation related to illegal drugs and outstanding arrest warrants.Deputies gained entry to the residence without resistance and located Chet Whetham, age 35 of Great Bend. Whetham had outstanding warrants from Harvey County for distribution of fentanyl. During the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Officers discovered methamphetamine, fentanyl tablets, marijuana and suspected fentanyl powder. Whetham was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked on the Harvey County warrant as well as requested charges of distribution of fentanyl and various other drug-related charges for Barton County. Whetham is being held in lieu of a $50,000 bond for Harvey County and an additional bond for Barton County.The Sheriff’s Office had requested assistance from the Kansas Bureau of investigation for this operation. The KBI has recently added several K9s and handlers who are specifically trained in the detection of fentanyl.Further arrests from the search warrant are anticipated in the near future.

Great Bend man arrested on fentanyl-related charges

The unofficial end-of-the-summer bash is over in Great Bend, and now
city staff is moving forward with planning more fall activities for citizens to
enjoy. Party in the Park took place this past Saturday at Veterans Memorial
Park and included games, food and entertainment for all ages. 

Great Bend
Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said roughly 5,000 people attended the festival
throughout the day. "We can not wait to see how this grows," said Hayes. "We added a few fun events that were really successful. I think the First Kansas Bank money pit was fun to add and a change of pace. We also had new winners for the mud volleyball tournament."

The Oozefest Mud Volleyball Tournament, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation Commission, had nearly 30 teams compete this year. “Diggas in Paris” was the name of the team that won the mud volleyball
tournament. The team consisted of students from Great Bend High School. 
Hayes thanked the Great Bend Rec, city crews, partners and
volunteers that assisted with the 11th Annual Party in the Park.
Next up for Hayes and her staff…Wine in the Wild. The event in September helps
raise funds for the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692122570858.jpeg" alt="Approximately 5,000 people attended Great Bend's Party in the Park throughout the day on Aug. 12, 2023." />
 <figcaption>Approximately 5,000 people attended Great Bend's Party in the Park throughout the day on Aug. 12, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe unofficial end-of-the-summer bash is over in Great Bend, and now
city staff is moving forward with planning more fall activities for citizens to
enjoy. Party in the Park took place this past Saturday at Veterans Memorial
Park and included games, food and entertainment for all ages. Great Bend
Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said roughly 5,000 people attended the festival
throughout the day. "We can not wait to see how this grows," said Hayes. "We added a few fun events that were really successful. I think the First Kansas Bank money pit was fun to add and a change of pace. We also had new winners for the mud volleyball tournament."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692122545298.jpeg" alt="party in the park" />
 <figcaption>party in the park</figcaption>
 </figure>The Oozefest Mud Volleyball Tournament, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation Commission, had nearly 30 teams compete this year. “Diggas in Paris” was the name of the team that won the mud volleyball
tournament. The team consisted of students from Great Bend High School. 
Hayes thanked the Great Bend Rec, city crews, partners and
volunteers that assisted with the 11th Annual Party in the Park.
Next up for Hayes and her staff…Wine in the Wild. The event in September helps
raise funds for the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Roughly 5,000 attend Great Bend’s Party in the Park

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/15) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 2:09 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at 741 NE 140 Road in Claflin. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 5:41 a.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp; NE 70 Avenue in
Ellinwood. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 10:07 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 40 Road &amp; NE 110
Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 5:51 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 514 Cleveland Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:47 p.m. a theft was reported at 319 SW 50 Avenue. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 8:42 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 110 Avenue &amp; NE 40 Road
in Claflin. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/15) 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 2:04 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 514 Cleveland Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 10:06 a.m. tree cutting equipment in the roadway was reported at 806 Morton
Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 11:33 a.m. animal control requested assistance with a vicious dog at 1411 10th
Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 12:30 p.m. a gold van speeding was reported at 2337 Washington. 
 
Heart Problems 
 
At 12:40 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2607 20th Street. 
 
Injury Accident 
 
At 1:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th &amp; Polk. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 2:07 p.m. an accident was reported at 3413 10th Street. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:34 p.m. an officer arrested Breven Phelps for DUI at 24th &amp;
Polk. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:05 p.m. a report of Danielle and Scott Delgaillo on the property after
being evicted was made at 1209 Holland. Subjects left without incident. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:08 p.m. theft of a phone was reported at 1919 Harrison Street. 
 
Trash Complaint / Dumping 
 
At 6:34 p.m. two subjects dumpster diving was reported at 1500 Kansas Avenue. 
 
Theft 
 
At 9:02 p.m. a theft was reported at 2201 Main Street. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 9:08 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2604 28th Street. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 9:17 p.m. Alicia Homquist reported EMS assistance at 2604 28th
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/15) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 2:09 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at 741 NE 140 Road in Claflin. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 5:41 a.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway &amp; NE 70 Avenue in
Ellinwood. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 10:07 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 40 Road &amp; NE 110
Avenue. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 5:51 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 514 Cleveland Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:47 p.m. a theft was reported at 319 SW 50 Avenue. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 8:42 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 110 Avenue &amp; NE 40 Road
in Claflin. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/15) 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 2:04 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 514 Cleveland Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 10:06 a.m. tree cutting equipment in the roadway was reported at 806 Morton
Street. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 11:33 a.m. animal control requested assistance with a vicious dog at 1411 10th
Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 12:30 p.m. a gold van speeding was reported at 2337 Washington. 
 
Heart Problems 
 
At 12:40 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2607 20th Street. 
 
Injury Accident 
 
At 1:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th &amp; Polk. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 2:07 p.m. an accident was reported at 3413 10th Street. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:34 p.m. an officer arrested Breven Phelps for DUI at 24th &amp;
Polk. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:05 p.m. a report of Danielle and Scott Delgaillo on the property after
being evicted was made at 1209 Holland. Subjects left without incident. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:08 p.m. theft of a phone was reported at 1919 Harrison Street. 
 
Trash Complaint / Dumping 
 
At 6:34 p.m. two subjects dumpster diving was reported at 1500 Kansas Avenue. 
 
Theft 
 
At 9:02 p.m. a theft was reported at 2201 Main Street. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 9:08 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2604 28th Street. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 9:17 p.m. Alicia Homquist reported EMS assistance at 2604 28th
Street.

Cop Shop (8/15)

8/15 BOOKED: John Wilkinson on Barton County District Court case for Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Turning Movements Required Signals, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Derek Daniels on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Breven Phelps on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Chet Wetham on Harvey County District Court warrant for Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $50,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Distribution of Fentanyl, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Dustin Bosack on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Clayton Hines on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after posting total $13,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Derek Daniels on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Breven Phelps on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/15 BOOKED: John Wilkinson on Barton County District Court case for Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Turning Movements Required Signals, bond set at $100,000 C/S.BOOKED: Derek Daniels on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Breven Phelps on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Chet Wetham on Harvey County District Court warrant for Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $50,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Distribution of Fentanyl, bond set at $100,000 C/S.RELEASED: Dustin Bosack on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Clayton Hines on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after posting total $13,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Derek Daniels on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Breven Phelps on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/15)

Gidget Hagan spent more than 35 years in Fairbanks, Alaska where she was a master dog groomer with her own shop. Wanting to move closer to family, Hagan
relocated to Great Bend. Serving as a home realtor, Hagan is now opening Dazzle
Dog Spa &amp; Boutique on 10th Street to offer full-service dog
grooming. "It will also have a "pawdicure" where we can oil and buff," said Hagan. "We can soften up their feet and paint their nails. We may add hair coloring at some point, but not yet. We'll also have basic grooms." 
Trying to get away from volume grooming, Hagan takes a more patient approach
with Fear Free certification. The method does not push or force the dogs
through the grooming process and makes sure the animals are comfortable. 
"It's a very patient approach," said Hagan. "There is no forcing the dog at all. We keep working with them or we work with their veterinarian to put them on a chill protocol, but we're not traumatizing the animals anymore." 
Dazzle Dog Spa is located at 2806 10th Street, on the northwest
corner of 10th and Washington. Hagan plans for an opening date on
Aug. 21.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692119212956.jpeg" alt="Dazzle Dog Spa &amp; Boutique in Great Bend will open Aug. 21, 2023." />
 <figcaption>Dazzle Dog Spa &amp; Boutique in Great Bend will open Aug. 21, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGidget Hagan spent more than 35 years in Fairbanks, Alaska where she was a master dog groomer with her own shop. Wanting to move closer to family, Hagan
relocated to Great Bend. Serving as a home realtor, Hagan is now opening Dazzle
Dog Spa &amp; Boutique on 10th Street to offer full-service dog
grooming. "It will also have a "pawdicure" where we can oil and buff," said Hagan. "We can soften up their feet and paint their nails. We may add hair coloring at some point, but not yet. We'll also have basic grooms." 
Trying to get away from volume grooming, Hagan takes a more patient approach
with Fear Free certification. The method does not push or force the dogs
through the grooming process and makes sure the animals are comfortable. 
"It's a very patient approach," said Hagan. "There is no forcing the dog at all. We keep working with them or we work with their veterinarian to put them on a chill protocol, but we're not traumatizing the animals anymore." 
Dazzle Dog Spa is located at 2806 10th Street, on the northwest
corner of 10th and Washington. Hagan plans for an opening date on
Aug. 21.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

New Great Bend shop takes patient approach to dog grooming

Today Sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy, with a south wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 66. South wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 91. North wind 6 to 11 mph becoming northeast 12 to 17 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 63. East-northeast wind 9 to 11 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 95. South-southeast wind 11 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Breezy.

Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 104.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74.

Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.

Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.

Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy, with a south wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 66. South wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 91. North wind 6 to 11 mph becoming northeast 12 to 17 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 63. East-northeast wind 9 to 11 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 95. South-southeast wind 11 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Breezy.Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 104.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74.Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 99.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

Crude prices remain at three-month highs. The near-month Nymex contract has lost some ground since settling Wednesday over $84 per barrel for the first time since November. That contract settled Friday at $83.19 per barrel, 37 cents higher on the day and a weekly gain of 37 cents. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $73.50 per barrel after gaining half a dollar on Friday. Kansas prices are a half dollar higher than a week ago, and two dollars higher than at the first of the month. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes has dropped every week since July 7. The oil count hasn't risen since June 9. Friday's tally shows 654 active drilling rigs in the U.S., which is down five gas rigs from last week. The oil tally was unchanged, the first time it hasn't dropped since July. Texas, Louisiana and Pennsylvania were each down two rigs. Oklahoma was up one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service (8/10) reported 26 active drilling rigs in western Kansas and 16 east of Wichita. The total is up three rigs, and seven percent ahead of a month ago, but 30% behind the same week a year ago.&nbsp; Kansas operators this year have spudded 742 wells, down 244 wells from a year ago. Total footage drilled is down 27 percent. Operators in the Sunflower State completed 32 wells last week, 1,063 so far this year. Well completions outnumber last year by 13%.&nbsp; IOGSI reports ten new completions in western Kansas including one in Ellis County. Regulators in Kansas approved 19 new drilling permits, 781 so far this year, which is down nearly 20% from last year. First the spiral, then the spike. The Energy Information Administration reports a big rebound in U.S. crude stockpiles after last week's historic drop. Inventories rose to just over 445 million barrels as of August 4th, up nearly six million barrels in seven days. A week ago the government reported inventories dropping 17 million barrels, an all-time record. The Energy Information Administration reporting shows domestic stockpiles remain at lows not seen since January. U.S. crude production reached 12.5 million barrels of crude per day, up by 384,000 barrels from a week ago, and 340,000 barrels ahead of a year ago. The Energy Information Administration said U.S. output is at its highest level since April of 2020. The all-time high was set in March of 2020 at over 13 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration said crude-oil imports averaged 6.7 million barrels per day in the week through August 4, up 14,000 barrels per day from the week before.&nbsp; Four-week average imports are up nearly three percent from the same four weeks a year ago. The Energy Information Administration said regular gasoline inventories dropped by nearly three million barrels last week and are seven percent below the five-year seasonal average.

Diesel stocks are down 1.7 million barrels and are 17% lower than the five year average for this time of year. At the pump we're seeing double-digit spikes. 

Regular gasoline prices in Kansas are rising faster than the national average, and are now more expensive than they were a year ago.&nbsp; 

The statewide average on Thursday was $3.65/gal., up 41 cents from a month ago. The national average is higher, at $3.82/gal., but rising more slowly, nearly thirty cents in the last month. And the national average is still 18 cents lower than a year ago. The Kansas average is four cents higher than a year ago. Filling up your 15-gallon tank in our neighborhood will cost you a little over $54, up from $49 a month ago. Despite an industry decline in overall railroad shipments, oil-by-rail held steady last month, and posted big gains last week. Operators moved 10,211 tanker carloads of petroleum and petroleum products across the country during the week through July 29. That's up more than a thousand carloads from a week earlier, up two percent from the weekly count a year ago and the highest weekly tally since March 30. The Association of American Railroads reported total rail shipments in July were down 3.3% compared to a year ago. Kansas regulators report 99 new intent-to-drill notices across the state last week, 817 so far this year, compared to 925 through July of last year. There are two new intents filed in July in Barton County and two in Stafford County. So far this year, the Kansas Corporation Commission reports 29 new notices in Barton County, compared to 13 by the end of July last year. Ellis County has 24 new intents on file this year, compared to 16 by this time last year. Russell County posts four intents this year, compared to nine last year at this time. Stafford County has 21 new intent-to-drill notices on file this year, compared to 12 a year ago. The annual convention and expo of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association is coming up this weekend, August 20-22 at Wichita's Century II Convention Center. Among the events will be a panel discussion featuring U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and three out of four Kansas U.S. Representatives. Find out more at their Web site at <a href="https://kioga.org/">KIOGA.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle CommunicationsCrude prices remain at three-month highs. The near-month Nymex contract has lost some ground since settling Wednesday over $84 per barrel for the first time since November. That contract settled Friday at $83.19 per barrel, 37 cents higher on the day and a weekly gain of 37 cents. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $73.50 per barrel after gaining half a dollar on Friday. Kansas prices are a half dollar higher than a week ago, and two dollars higher than at the first of the month. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes has dropped every week since July 7. The oil count hasn't risen since June 9. Friday's tally shows 654 active drilling rigs in the U.S., which is down five gas rigs from last week. The oil tally was unchanged, the first time it hasn't dropped since July. Texas, Louisiana and Pennsylvania were each down two rigs. Oklahoma was up one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service (8/10) reported 26 active drilling rigs in western Kansas and 16 east of Wichita. The total is up three rigs, and seven percent ahead of a month ago, but 30% behind the same week a year ago.&nbsp; Kansas operators this year have spudded 742 wells, down 244 wells from a year ago. Total footage drilled is down 27 percent. Operators in the Sunflower State completed 32 wells last week, 1,063 so far this year. Well completions outnumber last year by 13%.&nbsp; IOGSI reports ten new completions in western Kansas including one in Ellis County. Regulators in Kansas approved 19 new drilling permits, 781 so far this year, which is down nearly 20% from last year. First the spiral, then the spike. The Energy Information Administration reports a big rebound in U.S. crude stockpiles after last week's historic drop. Inventories rose to just over 445 million barrels as of August 4th, up nearly six million barrels in seven days. A week ago the government reported inventories dropping 17 million barrels, an all-time record. The Energy Information Administration reporting shows domestic stockpiles remain at lows not seen since January. U.S. crude production reached 12.5 million barrels of crude per day, up by 384,000 barrels from a week ago, and 340,000 barrels ahead of a year ago. The Energy Information Administration said U.S. output is at its highest level since April of 2020. The all-time high was set in March of 2020 at over 13 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration said crude-oil imports averaged 6.7 million barrels per day in the week through August 4, up 14,000 barrels per day from the week before.&nbsp; Four-week average imports are up nearly three percent from the same four weeks a year ago. The Energy Information Administration said regular gasoline inventories dropped by nearly three million barrels last week and are seven percent below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel stocks are down 1.7 million barrels and are 17% lower than the five year average for this time of year. At the pump we're seeing double-digit spikes. Regular gasoline prices in Kansas are rising faster than the national average, and are now more expensive than they were a year ago.&nbsp; The statewide average on Thursday was $3.65/gal., up 41 cents from a month ago. The national average is higher, at $3.82/gal., but rising more slowly, nearly thirty cents in the last month. And the national average is still 18 cents lower than a year ago. The Kansas average is four cents higher than a year ago. Filling up your 15-gallon tank in our neighborhood will cost you a little over $54, up from $49 a month ago. Despite an industry decline in overall railroad shipments, oil-by-rail held steady last month, and posted big gains last week. Operators moved 10,211 tanker carloads of petroleum and petroleum products across the country during the week through July 29. That's up more than a thousand carloads from a week earlier, up two percent from the weekly count a year ago and the highest weekly tally since March 30. The Association of American Railroads reported total rail shipments in July were down 3.3% compared to a year ago. Kansas regulators report 99 new intent-to-drill notices across the state last week, 817 so far this year, compared to 925 through July of last year. There are two new intents filed in July in Barton County and two in Stafford County. So far this year, the Kansas Corporation Commission reports 29 new notices in Barton County, compared to 13 by the end of July last year. Ellis County has 24 new intents on file this year, compared to 16 by this time last year. Russell County posts four intents this year, compared to nine last year at this time. Stafford County has 21 new intent-to-drill notices on file this year, compared to 12 a year ago. The annual convention and expo of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association is coming up this weekend, August 20-22 at Wichita's Century II Convention Center. Among the events will be a panel discussion featuring U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and three out of four Kansas U.S. Representatives. Find out more at their Web site at <a href="https://kioga.org/">KIOGA.org</a>.

News from the Oil Patch: National rig counts continue to drop 

From Sunflower Diversified Services...

Sunflower Diversified Services Recycling helped welcome students back to Barton Community College this past weekend by supplying two box trucks for recycling moving boxes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692123131227.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Sunflower Diversified Services...Sunflower Diversified Services Recycling helped welcome students back to Barton Community College this past weekend by supplying two box trucks for recycling moving boxes.

Sunflower Recycling assists with Barton CC's move-in day

As you drive around the area, you might notice that many trees look like we are already in fall though summer is still here. Leaves of area Elm Trees have turned brown, and some may be falling off, giving them a sickly appearance. In many cases, the reason for this is, Elm Leaf Beetles feasting on their leaves. Elm Leaf Beetles are a yearly concern when the second generation hatches about Mid-July. This year is no exception.

Elm Leaf Beetles are a yearly nuisance pest that feed on Elm leaves. The small Green and yellow striped adults can be troublesome in homes during the fall and spring as they overwinter in houses. Adult Beetles become active when the new leaves on Elms emerge in the spring. They feed on the new foliage and the females lay their eggs in early May. Larva emerge and start feeding on the underside of leaves for two to three weeks, and then drop to the ground to pupate on the soil surface, or stay in the tree to pupate in the cracks of the bark. Most of the time this first generation goes unnoticed because of small numbers, and the tree producing new foliage to replace what leaves had been lost.

The second generation is where most of the damage is observed. The massive populations of beetles feeding on the leaves are what give the tree a burnt or brown appearance. This is when most people become alarmed and may notice the beetles all over their trees, or the yellow or yellow brown pupae in the cracks of the tree. Most of the time, although surprising to find, and disconcerting to see your tree looking brown early in the season, the trees is still alive and will leaf out just fine the following season.

Treatment for the beetles is usually not recommended. Most large healthy trees can withstand late season defoliation, and if anyone in the area also has beetles, then they are likely to come back to your tree. If you do want to treat, time and chemical sprays to coincide with egg hatch in either mid-May for the first generation, or early to mid-July for the second generation. Often a single application made to control the first generation is all that is required. There are several effective sprays on the market labeled for use in the control of Elm Beetles. Please make sure that you follow all directions on the container.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>As you drive around the area, you might notice that many trees look like we are already in fall though summer is still here. Leaves of area Elm Trees have turned brown, and some may be falling off, giving them a sickly appearance. In many cases, the reason for this is, Elm Leaf Beetles feasting on their leaves. Elm Leaf Beetles are a yearly concern when the second generation hatches about Mid-July. This year is no exception.Elm Leaf Beetles are a yearly nuisance pest that feed on Elm leaves. The small Green and yellow striped adults can be troublesome in homes during the fall and spring as they overwinter in houses. Adult Beetles become active when the new leaves on Elms emerge in the spring. They feed on the new foliage and the females lay their eggs in early May. Larva emerge and start feeding on the underside of leaves for two to three weeks, and then drop to the ground to pupate on the soil surface, or stay in the tree to pupate in the cracks of the bark. Most of the time this first generation goes unnoticed because of small numbers, and the tree producing new foliage to replace what leaves had been lost.The second generation is where most of the damage is observed. The massive populations of beetles feeding on the leaves are what give the tree a burnt or brown appearance. This is when most people become alarmed and may notice the beetles all over their trees, or the yellow or yellow brown pupae in the cracks of the tree. Most of the time, although surprising to find, and disconcerting to see your tree looking brown early in the season, the trees is still alive and will leaf out just fine the following season.Treatment for the beetles is usually not recommended. Most large healthy trees can withstand late season defoliation, and if anyone in the area also has beetles, then they are likely to come back to your tree. If you do want to treat, time and chemical sprays to coincide with egg hatch in either mid-May for the first generation, or early to mid-July for the second generation. Often a single application made to control the first generation is all that is required. There are several effective sprays on the market labeled for use in the control of Elm Beetles. Please make sure that you follow all directions on the container.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Elm Leaf Beetles concern for area trees

From United Way of Central Kansas...

Dolly Parton, renowned singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, visited the state of Kansas to mark the achievements of her Imagination Library program. The closed event, hosted by the Imagination Library of Kansas, took place on Monday, Aug. 14. This occasion celebrates the statewide success of providing free books to children from birth to age five, fostering early childhood literacy and development. Thanks to increased funding from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, as well as the Kansas Legislature, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is now able to extend its reach to every child in Kansas. This initiative ensures that young minds across the state have access to high-quality, age-appropriate books each month, supporting their social-emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. Pratt, a pioneering community in Kansas, holds the distinction of launching the first Imagination Library site outside of Tennessee in 2005. Over the years, Kansas has embraced this program with enthusiasm, enrolling more than 52,200 children and gifting an impressive 3.8 million books since its inception.

Governor Laura Kelly expressed her delight, stating, “We have reached an incredible milestone by providing the gift of reading to children and families across Kansas. The first five years of a child’s life are crucial for their development and literacy. By expanding access to the Imagination Library, we are nurturing a lifelong love for reading and supporting the well-rounded growth of our children. I encourage all eligible Kansas families to enroll their children in the Imagination Library of Kansas.” United Way of Central Kansas Directors, both past and present, gathered to celebrate this event. Their presence underscores the collaborative efforts that have contributed to the program’s success and reflects the commitment of United Way to promoting early childhood education and literacy. Dolly Parton’s inspiration for the Imagination Library program stems from her father’s struggles with literacy. In 1995, she founded the program, which has since grown to deliver over 2 million high-quality books to children’s homes each month. Each enrolled child receives a new book every month until their fifth birthday, at no cost to families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692125016900.jpeg" alt="United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director Charell Owings (left) pictured with former UWCK directors Gaila Demel and Julie Bugner-Smith. United Way of Central Kansas serves Barton and Pawnee counties." />
 <figcaption>United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director Charell Owings (left) pictured with former UWCK directors Gaila Demel and Julie Bugner-Smith. United Way of Central Kansas serves Barton and Pawnee counties.</figcaption>
 </figure>From United Way of Central Kansas...Dolly Parton, renowned singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, visited the state of Kansas to mark the achievements of her Imagination Library program. The closed event, hosted by the Imagination Library of Kansas, took place on Monday, Aug. 14. This occasion celebrates the statewide success of providing free books to children from birth to age five, fostering early childhood literacy and development. Thanks to increased funding from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, as well as the Kansas Legislature, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is now able to extend its reach to every child in Kansas. This initiative ensures that young minds across the state have access to high-quality, age-appropriate books each month, supporting their social-emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. Pratt, a pioneering community in Kansas, holds the distinction of launching the first Imagination Library site outside of Tennessee in 2005. Over the years, Kansas has embraced this program with enthusiasm, enrolling more than 52,200 children and gifting an impressive 3.8 million books since its inception.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692124995180.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly expressed her delight, stating, “We have reached an incredible milestone by providing the gift of reading to children and families across Kansas. The first five years of a child’s life are crucial for their development and literacy. By expanding access to the Imagination Library, we are nurturing a lifelong love for reading and supporting the well-rounded growth of our children. I encourage all eligible Kansas families to enroll their children in the Imagination Library of Kansas.” United Way of Central Kansas Directors, both past and present, gathered to celebrate this event. Their presence underscores the collaborative efforts that have contributed to the program’s success and reflects the commitment of United Way to promoting early childhood education and literacy. Dolly Parton’s inspiration for the Imagination Library program stems from her father’s struggles with literacy. In 1995, she founded the program, which has since grown to deliver over 2 million high-quality books to children’s homes each month. Each enrolled child receives a new book every month until their fifth birthday, at no cost to families.

Local United Way reps enjoy Dolly Parton visit in Kansas

The impact of the COVID year is still playing out in schools across the nation with no defined finish line in sight. Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education reviewed state assessment scores from 2022. Great Bend students saw a small drop in their scores from recent years. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said that is not uncommon.

"Across the state, we've had a dip in state assessment scores as a result of the COVID year," he said. "We're starting to see evidence of a resurgence but it's very small, and this is true across the state. We'd like to see more and I'm not sure how long it's going to take."

The state assessments were online tests given to students in grades 3-8 and high school sophomores. By score, students are placed in one of four levels, with one being the lowest and four the highest. Great Bend saw a jump of more than three percent in level one math scores. The state average increased one percent. Great Bend also saw a 1.26-percent increase in level four scores, nearly equal to the statewide figure.

Popp explained that a 21 on the ACT test is considered an entry score for college. For high school sophomores taking state assessments, a high level-two score is the equivalent of a 21 on the ACT. 

"There are a lot of students who score at a level two on the state assessment who go on and are very successful in college and beyond," Popp said. "Not to say we don't want to see kids improving, obviously we do. We'd like to see all kids at a level three or four, but you can see that it's hard to get kids to a level three or four."

USD 428 saw a nearly two-percent increase in level one scores for English Language Arts. That number has gone from 34.95 percent in 2021 to 41.2 percent last year. Across Kansas, the number dipped slightly from a year ago to 32.89 percent but is still higher than the 30.3-percent figure from 2021. Statewide, 8.18 percent of Kansas students tested at level four, compared to 4.69 in USD 428.

In science, nearly 52 percent of USD 428 students scored at level one, up from 46.08 percent in 2021. The state average was up slightly to 40.31 percent. Nearly 12 percent of Kansas students tested at level four in science, roughly doubling USD 428 scores in the same category.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692105788774.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe impact of the COVID year is still playing out in schools across the nation with no defined finish line in sight. Monday night, the USD 428 Board of Education reviewed state assessment scores from 2022. Great Bend students saw a small drop in their scores from recent years. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said that is not uncommon."Across the state, we've had a dip in state assessment scores as a result of the COVID year," he said. "We're starting to see evidence of a resurgence but it's very small, and this is true across the state. We'd like to see more and I'm not sure how long it's going to take."The state assessments were online tests given to students in grades 3-8 and high school sophomores. By score, students are placed in one of four levels, with one being the lowest and four the highest. Great Bend saw a jump of more than three percent in level one math scores. The state average increased one percent. Great Bend also saw a 1.26-percent increase in level four scores, nearly equal to the statewide figure.Popp explained that a 21 on the ACT test is considered an entry score for college. For high school sophomores taking state assessments, a high level-two score is the equivalent of a 21 on the ACT. "There are a lot of students who score at a level two on the state assessment who go on and are very successful in college and beyond," Popp said. "Not to say we don't want to see kids improving, obviously we do. We'd like to see all kids at a level three or four, but you can see that it's hard to get kids to a level three or four."USD 428 saw a nearly two-percent increase in level one scores for English Language Arts. That number has gone from 34.95 percent in 2021 to 41.2 percent last year. Across Kansas, the number dipped slightly from a year ago to 32.89 percent but is still higher than the 30.3-percent figure from 2021. Statewide, 8.18 percent of Kansas students tested at level four, compared to 4.69 in USD 428.In science, nearly 52 percent of USD 428 students scored at level one, up from 46.08 percent in 2021. The state average was up slightly to 40.31 percent. Nearly 12 percent of Kansas students tested at level four in science, roughly doubling USD 428 scores in the same category.

Great Bend schools see drop in state assessment scores

The storm that moved through Great Bend on July 16 caused some obvious damage to homes and trees. Less obvious was the toll on local wildlife. Several bird species make their nests in the summer, and Brit Spaugh Zoo Director Ashley Burdick said many of those babies made their way into the facility's Raptor Rehabilitation Program. In all, the zoo took in more than a dozen birds.

"With that many, we got a little bit overwhelmed because we were already full from other birds that needed a little bit longer-term care," Burdick said. "We have a couple of eagles, still. It was a little overwhelming because they also require a lot more feeding when they're little like that."

Most of the birds impacted were Mississippi kites and mourning doves though an injured Cooper's hawk was also found in a resident's yard.

"Some of them, unfortunately, were really small, like the mourning doves, and they didn't make it," said Burdick. "I think we have all but one Mississippi kite that we are working on raising up, then they should be releasable in the next couple weeks."

Earlier this year, the Great Bend Zoological Society and zoo staff revamped the raptor center, which typically helps rehabilitate between 30 and 100 raptors each year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691758484316.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe storm that moved through Great Bend on July 16 caused some obvious damage to homes and trees. Less obvious was the toll on local wildlife. Several bird species make their nests in the summer, and Brit Spaugh Zoo Director Ashley Burdick said many of those babies made their way into the facility's Raptor Rehabilitation Program. In all, the zoo took in more than a dozen birds."With that many, we got a little bit overwhelmed because we were already full from other birds that needed a little bit longer-term care," Burdick said. "We have a couple of eagles, still. It was a little overwhelming because they also require a lot more feeding when they're little like that."Most of the birds impacted were Mississippi kites and mourning doves though an injured Cooper's hawk was also found in a resident's yard."Some of them, unfortunately, were really small, like the mourning doves, and they didn't make it," said Burdick. "I think we have all but one Mississippi kite that we are working on raising up, then they should be releasable in the next couple weeks."Earlier this year, the Great Bend Zoological Society and zoo staff revamped the raptor center, which typically helps rehabilitate between 30 and 100 raptors each year.

Birds a less obvious victim of wind damage in Great Bend

Missing teenager could be in Great Bend area

Property valuations skyrocketed across Kansas in 2023, leaving citizens in fear of paying giant tax bills for 2024. Budget season is in session, and Tuesday morning the Barton County Commission and Fire District No. 1 each finalized budgets that will remain revenue neutral or better. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson reiterated any tax increases to the public will not come from the county. 

"If your property taxes go up, try and figure out why," he said. "I can tell you for sure that Great Bend is remaining revenue neutral and Barton County is doing better than remaining revenue neutral. So if your taxes go up, why do they go up?"

To remain revenue neutral, taxing entities must collect the same amount of actual dollars or fewer than the previous year. Barton County will assess a mil levy of 37.146 on assessed county valuation of $323,024,644 to generate $11,988,892 in ad valorem tax dollars. That is $9,226 less than collected last year, and the 2024 mil levy is 9.144 mils below the 2021 county rate. However, Hutchinson said not to focus on the mil levy.

"The mil levy fluctuates by valuation and we can't control that," he said. "All we can control is how much we budget and how much we spend. What we're doing, what this commission has done and the previous commission has done is collected less in tax dollars every year since 2021. That's what we need to focus on."

County Administrator Matt Patzner presented the 2024 budget to the commission in a separate meeting. He explained the goal of the county is to maintain quality public services, invest in employees who deliver those services, expand the tax base in Barton County, and enrich the quality of life for citizens.

"Every budget year is unique and presents its own challenges," Patzner said. "This year was no different as the commission had to find a way to accomplish all these goals with continuing rising costs for commodities, services, and quality personnel, as well as overseeing the largest courthouse improvement project the county has taken on in recent memory, along with all the challenges that come along with that."

Hutchinson emphasized the importance of growing the tax base in Barton County to minimize the impact of individual taxes.

"There are only two ways to lower taxes: cut from budget and services provided to the community, or to grow and have more people paying in," he said. "That way the slice of the pie becomes smaller for each individual person. Those are the only two ways. When you combine both of those together a little bit, now you're starting to talk about something that really might have an impact on people's day-to-day lives."

The Barton County Clerk's Office recently mailed out a list of taxing entities that have expressed intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate in 2024. Appraiser Wendy Prosser reminded the public those notices include meeting dates where citizens can express their concerns and ask questions before those budgets are approved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692113296775.jpeg" alt="Barton County Administrator Matt Patzner presents the 2024 budget to commissioners Tuesday morning. Despite increased property valuations, Barton County will collect $9,226 fewer dollars from residents in 2024." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Administrator Matt Patzner presents the 2024 budget to commissioners Tuesday morning. Despite increased property valuations, Barton County will collect $9,226 fewer dollars from residents in 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostProperty valuations skyrocketed across Kansas in 2023, leaving citizens in fear of paying giant tax bills for 2024. Budget season is in session, and Tuesday morning the Barton County Commission and Fire District No. 1 each finalized budgets that will remain revenue neutral or better. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson reiterated any tax increases to the public will not come from the county. "If your property taxes go up, try and figure out why," he said. "I can tell you for sure that Great Bend is remaining revenue neutral and Barton County is doing better than remaining revenue neutral. So if your taxes go up, why do they go up?"To remain revenue neutral, taxing entities must collect the same amount of actual dollars or fewer than the previous year. Barton County will assess a mil levy of 37.146 on assessed county valuation of $323,024,644 to generate $11,988,892 in ad valorem tax dollars. That is $9,226 less than collected last year, and the 2024 mil levy is 9.144 mils below the 2021 county rate. However, Hutchinson said not to focus on the mil levy."The mil levy fluctuates by valuation and we can't control that," he said. "All we can control is how much we budget and how much we spend. What we're doing, what this commission has done and the previous commission has done is collected less in tax dollars every year since 2021. That's what we need to focus on."County Administrator Matt Patzner presented the 2024 budget to the commission in a separate meeting. He explained the goal of the county is to maintain quality public services, invest in employees who deliver those services, expand the tax base in Barton County, and enrich the quality of life for citizens."Every budget year is unique and presents its own challenges," Patzner said. "This year was no different as the commission had to find a way to accomplish all these goals with continuing rising costs for commodities, services, and quality personnel, as well as overseeing the largest courthouse improvement project the county has taken on in recent memory, along with all the challenges that come along with that."Hutchinson emphasized the importance of growing the tax base in Barton County to minimize the impact of individual taxes."There are only two ways to lower taxes: cut from budget and services provided to the community, or to grow and have more people paying in," he said. "That way the slice of the pie becomes smaller for each individual person. Those are the only two ways. When you combine both of those together a little bit, now you're starting to talk about something that really might have an impact on people's day-to-day lives."The Barton County Clerk's Office recently mailed out a list of taxing entities that have expressed intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate in 2024. Appraiser Wendy Prosser reminded the public those notices include meeting dates where citizens can express their concerns and ask questions before those budgets are approved.

Barton County lowering taxes in 2024 budget

As first responders, Chance and Brittney Bailey have been answering the call in Ellinwood for years. Now, they're answering a different type of call. The Baileys, along with Jarett and Audrey Mermis, announced the future opening of a new diner in Ellinwood. 

"There's definitely a need," Brittney said. "We don't have a restaurant that's open in the evening or on the weekends. We wanted to be able to fulfill that need. We also want to be able to give back. That's how the mission was born."

Chance is the Ellinwood chief of police, and Brittney is the Ellinwood EMS director. Jarett is a captain for the Chase Fire Department, and Audrey works part-time with Ellinwood EMS and as a first responder in Chase. They came up with a suitable name - 10-39 Cafe - that represents emergency response with lights and siren.

"We were bouncing around ideas for names," Brittney said, "and we just said, 'What if we named it 10-39 Cafe?' just because we're all in emergency services and we decided we love that, especially when we'd already decided to want to give back to local first-responder agencies."

Diners at the restaurant will have the opportunity to round up their bills. Proceeds will be donated to local first responders, and the group also wants to establish a scholarship fund to be used for area students wishing to pursue a career as firefighters or EMS personnel.

The cafe will serve diner-style food such as burgers, chicken strips, and steak fingers. The owners are also planning to have a daily special, and they hope to have a steak night and serve breakfast in the future. The goal is to have the restaurant operational within six to nine months.

Capacity for the cafe, which will also feature delivery and carryout, is still unknown as the group begins to renovate the old Magento repair shop at 104 W. 1st Street in Ellinwood, but the plan is to have bar and table seating inside with additional patio seating. Hours of operation are also undetermined though plans are to serve lunch and dinner six days a week.

All four owners intend to keep their current first-responder jobs and a manager has been hired to run the cafe. Earlier this week, 10-39 Cafe was named as one of 10 semifinalists in Great Bend Economic Development's IGNITE Rural Business contest. The winner will receive a $50,000 prize to further develop their business.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692024405573.jpeg" alt="Four area first responders have purchased the building at 104 W. 1st Street in Ellinwood with plans to turn it into a cafe." />
 <figcaption>Four area first responders have purchased the building at 104 W. 1st Street in Ellinwood with plans to turn it into a cafe.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAs first responders, Chance and Brittney Bailey have been answering the call in Ellinwood for years. Now, they're answering a different type of call. The Baileys, along with Jarett and Audrey Mermis, announced the future opening of a new diner in Ellinwood. "There's definitely a need," Brittney said. "We don't have a restaurant that's open in the evening or on the weekends. We wanted to be able to fulfill that need. We also want to be able to give back. That's how the mission was born."Chance is the Ellinwood chief of police, and Brittney is the Ellinwood EMS director. Jarett is a captain for the Chase Fire Department, and Audrey works part-time with Ellinwood EMS and as a first responder in Chase. They came up with a suitable name - 10-39 Cafe - that represents emergency response with lights and siren."We were bouncing around ideas for names," Brittney said, "and we just said, 'What if we named it 10-39 Cafe?' just because we're all in emergency services and we decided we love that, especially when we'd already decided to want to give back to local first-responder agencies."Diners at the restaurant will have the opportunity to round up their bills. Proceeds will be donated to local first responders, and the group also wants to establish a scholarship fund to be used for area students wishing to pursue a career as firefighters or EMS personnel.The cafe will serve diner-style food such as burgers, chicken strips, and steak fingers. The owners are also planning to have a daily special, and they hope to have a steak night and serve breakfast in the future. The goal is to have the restaurant operational within six to nine months.Capacity for the cafe, which will also feature delivery and carryout, is still unknown as the group begins to renovate the old Magento repair shop at 104 W. 1st Street in Ellinwood, but the plan is to have bar and table seating inside with additional patio seating. Hours of operation are also undetermined though plans are to serve lunch and dinner six days a week.All four owners intend to keep their current first-responder jobs and a manager has been hired to run the cafe. Earlier this week, 10-39 Cafe was named as one of 10 semifinalists in Great Bend Economic Development's IGNITE Rural Business contest. The winner will receive a $50,000 prize to further develop their business.

First responders opening new cafe in Ellinwood

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/14) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:31 a.m. an accident was reported at 989 E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 9:21 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 460 Wilson Street in Galatia. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 10:38 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 400 block of SE 20 Road. 
 
Noise Complaint 
 
At 4:09 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 102 Chisholm Trl. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 11:59 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at MM 218 on E. US 56 Highway. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/14) 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:57 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 3106 17th Street. Ryan
Kuykendall was served an NTA. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 11:25 a.m. a camper parked on the sidewalk was reported in the 1300 block of
Bradley Road. 
 
Theft 
 
At 11:32 a.m. theft of a handicap placard was reported at 1300 Madison. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:47 p.m. an officer arrested Victor Ortiz-Barrios for no DL, no insurance,
and failure to stop at a stop sign at 10th Street &amp; Frey Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 4:28 p.m. an accident was reported at 2801 Main Street. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:59 p.m. a report of Joel Wise on the property and wanting his trespassed
was made at 2302 10th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:15 p.m. Brenda Jackson reported a driving complaint at 5210 10th
Street. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 10:38 p.m. K-9 deployment was reported at Railroad Avenue &amp; Washington. 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 2:04 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 514 Cleveland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/14) 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:31 a.m. an accident was reported at 989 E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 9:21 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 460 Wilson Street in Galatia. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 10:38 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 400 block of SE 20 Road. 
 
Noise Complaint 
 
At 4:09 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 102 Chisholm Trl. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 11:59 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at MM 218 on E. US 56 Highway. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/14) 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 8:57 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 3106 17th Street. Ryan
Kuykendall was served an NTA. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 11:25 a.m. a camper parked on the sidewalk was reported in the 1300 block of
Bradley Road. 
 
Theft 
 
At 11:32 a.m. theft of a handicap placard was reported at 1300 Madison. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 2:47 p.m. an officer arrested Victor Ortiz-Barrios for no DL, no insurance,
and failure to stop at a stop sign at 10th Street &amp; Frey Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 4:28 p.m. an accident was reported at 2801 Main Street. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:59 p.m. a report of Joel Wise on the property and wanting his trespassed
was made at 2302 10th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:15 p.m. Brenda Jackson reported a driving complaint at 5210 10th
Street. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 10:38 p.m. K-9 deployment was reported at Railroad Avenue &amp; Washington. 
 
Structure Fire 
 
At 2:04 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 514 Cleveland.

Cop Shop (8/14)

8/14 BOOKED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Daniel Bartonek on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Victor Ortiz-Barrios on Great Bend Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, No Insurance, and Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Michael Clark on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution of Methamphetamine x2, No Drug Tax Stamp x4, Distribution of Marijuana, and Distribution of a Controlled Substance, bond set at $300,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Aaron Fuller on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Zachary Coster on Barton County District Court case for Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Richard Fletcher on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, to treatment.

RELEASED: Charles LaSalle on Harris County District Court warrant, by order of the court. Texas will not extradite.

RELEASED: Victor Ortiz-Barrios on Great Bend Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, No Insurance, and Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign, after posting a $500 cash bond.

RELEASED: Adam Dailey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Aaron Fuller on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond.

RELEASED:&nbsp;Zachary Coster on Barton County District Court case for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/14 BOOKED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Daniel Bartonek on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Victor Ortiz-Barrios on Great Bend Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, No Insurance, and Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Michael Clark on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution of Methamphetamine x2, No Drug Tax Stamp x4, Distribution of Marijuana, and Distribution of a Controlled Substance, bond set at $300,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aaron Fuller on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Zachary Coster on Barton County District Court case for Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Richard Fletcher on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, to treatment.RELEASED: Charles LaSalle on Harris County District Court warrant, by order of the court. Texas will not extradite.RELEASED: Victor Ortiz-Barrios on Great Bend Municipal Court case for No Driver's License, No Insurance, and Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign, after posting a $500 cash bond.RELEASED: Adam Dailey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Aaron Fuller on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond.RELEASED:&nbsp;Zachary Coster on Barton County District Court case for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/14)

Cheyenne Bottoms is a few steps closer to its wetland reputation. Several inches of rain fell throughout central Kansas on Aug. 9, including 3.25 inches at the Bottoms itself. Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner said the Bottoms was still seeing some benefit of that precipitation Monday morning.

"We're still getting pretty good water from the Walnut," he said. "The water we're getting in now is from Rush and Ness counties. I think it's about crested now so it's going to start tapering off from now on. There's still water coming in from the (Arkansas River) that we're brining in as well."

Wagner called last Wednesday's rains the most beneficial to the Bottoms by far this season. Five-plus inches of water fell southwest of Hoisington, and more than three inches were reported two miles east of Ellinwood. Reports around Great Bend hovered around 2.8 inches. That could be it for a while as no rain is expected for at least 10 days, and temperatures will climb back past the century mark this weekend.

"When it gets hot like that, we'll lose half-inch to an inch of water a day," Wagner said. "What we really needed was that rain we were supposed to get Saturday night that was supposed to be pretty heavy rains. We really needed that to happen or an inch of two of rain this week to keep the water coming in. Everything right now is really primed."

According to the Kansas Drought Monitor, virtually all of Barton County remained in an "extreme" drought condition prior to the Aug. 9 rains. The southwest corner of Russell County was still listed in the worst category of "exceptional" drought.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692020338175.jpeg" alt="Pool 1a at Cheyenne Bottoms already had some water but benefitted from last Wednesday's rain." />
 <figcaption>Pool 1a at Cheyenne Bottoms already had some water but benefitted from last Wednesday's rain.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCheyenne Bottoms is a few steps closer to its wetland reputation. Several inches of rain fell throughout central Kansas on Aug. 9, including 3.25 inches at the Bottoms itself. Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner said the Bottoms was still seeing some benefit of that precipitation Monday morning."We're still getting pretty good water from the Walnut," he said. "The water we're getting in now is from Rush and Ness counties. I think it's about crested now so it's going to start tapering off from now on. There's still water coming in from the (Arkansas River) that we're brining in as well."Wagner called last Wednesday's rains the most beneficial to the Bottoms by far this season. Five-plus inches of water fell southwest of Hoisington, and more than three inches were reported two miles east of Ellinwood. Reports around Great Bend hovered around 2.8 inches. That could be it for a while as no rain is expected for at least 10 days, and temperatures will climb back past the century mark this weekend."When it gets hot like that, we'll lose half-inch to an inch of water a day," Wagner said. "What we really needed was that rain we were supposed to get Saturday night that was supposed to be pretty heavy rains. We really needed that to happen or an inch of two of rain this week to keep the water coming in. Everything right now is really primed."According to the Kansas Drought Monitor, virtually all of Barton County remained in an "extreme" drought condition prior to the Aug. 9 rains. The southwest corner of Russell County was still listed in the worst category of "exceptional" drought.

Cheyenne Bottoms benefitting from best rain of the year

Today Sunny, with a high near 85. North wind 3 to 8 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 62. East-southeast wind 6 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66. South wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-northwest wind 7 to 15 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 64.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 95.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73.

Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 103.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73.

Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 100.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 85. North wind 3 to 8 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 62. East-southeast wind 6 to 10 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 92. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66. South wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-northwest wind 7 to 15 mph becoming east-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 64.Friday Sunny, with a high near 95.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73.Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 103.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74.Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 102.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73.Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 100.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The "Deal of the Century" is how McCownGordon Construction Project Manager Todd Dumler described USD 428 Great Bend's acquisition of the former Cuna Mutual complex near 24th and the 281 Bypass.  Monday night, the board of education finalized a guaranteed maximum price of $4.79 million for renovations to the inside of the future education center and Little Panthers Preschool. Dumler was pleased with the number of bids received on the project.

"We did have 56 bidders total on this one, I think," he said. "On Support Services we had about 80. So we still averaged three bidders per scope of work. We're pleased with the turnout."

With Monday's approval, renovations are scheduled to begin in early October and wrap up in June of 2024. The budget allows for $225,000 toward the purchase of playground equipment and $100,000 for a seal coat of the parking lot. The 8,000-square-foot secured playground area on the east side of the facility is large enough to accommodate all preschoolers in the building but will likely never have to. The playground area will feature a soft surface surrounded by turf for easy maintenance, and will also include several shade features.

"We started with just asking the playground companies for their ideas; what could work in this space?" said Schaefer Architecture Vice President Matt Hamm. "When we saw what they could do and the budget they put with it, that's how we set the allowance. What we'll do going forward is we'll get with the district and we'll nail down what exact play features do we want. Now we'll know what we can afford."

Other features of the building include 15 classrooms, each with shared restrooms. Each classroom will feature both a carpeted and tile area. A large common space will be available for general use. The preschool will be able to accommodate a total of 450 students. Given the industrial nature of the building design, classrooms will be color coded and include kid-friendly artwork, likely including current USD 428 elementary mascots.

In May, the board of education heard an estimated cost of $4.4 million for the project. Of the $4.78 million of the finalized budget, the district may use approximately $2.2 million in federal ESSER dollars on the preschool side. Less than $700,000 of district money will be used for the education center portion of the building.

USD 428 purchased the property for $1.3 million in September 2022, despite the property being valuated at more than $4 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692064654637.jpeg" alt="Schaefer Architecture's Sarah Wiesner and Matt Hamm showed USD 428 board members some if the interior design ideas for the new Little Panthers Preschool." />
 <figcaption>Schaefer Architecture's Sarah Wiesner and Matt Hamm showed USD 428 board members some if the interior design ideas for the new Little Panthers Preschool.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe "Deal of the Century" is how McCownGordon Construction Project Manager Todd Dumler described USD 428 Great Bend's acquisition of the former Cuna Mutual complex near 24th and the 281 Bypass. Monday night, the board of education finalized a guaranteed maximum price of $4.79 million for renovations to the inside of the future education center and Little Panthers Preschool. Dumler was pleased with the number of bids received on the project."We did have 56 bidders total on this one, I think," he said. "On Support Services we had about 80. So we still averaged three bidders per scope of work. We're pleased with the turnout."With Monday's approval, renovations are scheduled to begin in early October and wrap up in June of 2024. The budget allows for $225,000 toward the purchase of playground equipment and $100,000 for a seal coat of the parking lot. The 8,000-square-foot secured playground area on the east side of the facility is large enough to accommodate all preschoolers in the building but will likely never have to. The playground area will feature a soft surface surrounded by turf for easy maintenance, and will also include several shade features.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692064768416.png" alt="Hallway designs would include vibrant colors and kid-friendly imagery, likely incorporating existing elementary mascots into the art." />
 <figcaption>Hallway designs would include vibrant colors and kid-friendly imagery, likely incorporating existing elementary mascots into the art.</figcaption>
 </figure>"We started with just asking the playground companies for their ideas; what could work in this space?" said Schaefer Architecture Vice President Matt Hamm. "When we saw what they could do and the budget they put with it, that's how we set the allowance. What we'll do going forward is we'll get with the district and we'll nail down what exact play features do we want. Now we'll know what we can afford."Other features of the building include 15 classrooms, each with shared restrooms. Each classroom will feature both a carpeted and tile area. A large common space will be available for general use. The preschool will be able to accommodate a total of 450 students. Given the industrial nature of the building design, classrooms will be color coded and include kid-friendly artwork, likely including current USD 428 elementary mascots.In May, the board of education heard an estimated cost of $4.4 million for the project. Of the $4.78 million of the finalized budget, the district may use approximately $2.2 million in federal ESSER dollars on the preschool side. Less than $700,000 of district money will be used for the education center portion of the building.USD 428 purchased the property for $1.3 million in September 2022, despite the property being valuated at more than $4 million.

Great Bend BOE finalizes cost of new preschool, ed center at $4.78 million

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3pRDv5O. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Budget Hearing and Agenda Meeting August 15, 2023 9:00 a.m. until Close of Commission Meeting 1500 Kansas Avenue, Great Bend&nbsp;

BUDGET HEARING: 2024 Operating Budget: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. Elected officials, Department Heads and supported agencies were asked to submit budget requests for the 2024 Operating Year. The Commission reviewed the requests and, with the assistance of the Administrator, drafted a balanced operating budget. The proposed 2024 Operating Budget is now presented to receive public comment.

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the August 8, 2023, Regular Meeting are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of August 1, 2023, and ending August 15, 2023.

III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ADOPTION OF THE 2024 BARTON COUNTY OPERATING BUDGET: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. At the Budget Hearing for the proposed 2024 Operating Budget for Barton County, conducted prior to this Regular Agenda Meeting, public comments were received. The Commission is now asked to consider adoption of the budget.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. ADOPTION OF THE 2024 AUTHORIZED POSITIONS LISTING: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. To assure that offices are operating with appropriate personnel, the 2024 Authorized Positions listing is presented for adoption. The listing includes all County positions, including Central Kansas Community Corrections and 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services, as both fall under the umbrella of County operations.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT AND EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT PLANS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. Through the budgeting process, Barton County transfers cash, as savings, to both the Capital Improvement and the Equipment Replacement Plans. These plans, revised annually, allow the County to plan for projected long-term expenditures.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. ROAD AND BRIDGE: Overrun – KanEquip – Equipment Repair: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Darren Williams, County Works Director, will provide details. On May 10, 2023, the Commission authorized the repair of a 2016 Case/IHC Maximum 150 mowing tractor. KanEquip had estimated labor and materials for the clutch repair at $28,195.04. With a not to exceed cap of $30,000.00, final billing totaled $31,905.28. Mr. Williams will ask that the Commission approve the $1,905.28 overrun.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.

V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will meet as the Governing Board of Fire District No. 1. -Following the close of the meetings, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified&nbsp;positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:00 a.m. – Budget Hearing and Agenda Meeting – Fire District No. 1.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. or following the close of the Fire District Meeting – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Administrator.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Program Update and Budget Discussion – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – Update to the County Bridge Weight Limit Resolution – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:15 a.m. – Audit Review – Jamie Benyshek, AdamsBrown.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1:30 p.m. – Mental Health and Incarceration Costs – Julie Kramp, Executive Director, The Center.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3:00 p.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director, is scheduled for August 17, 2023.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting County business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 22, 2023.

GOVERNING BODY OF FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1 Budget Hearing and Agenda Meeting Aug. 15 - 10 a.m. or immediately following the Close of the Agenda Meeting

BUDGET HEARING: 2024 Operating Budget: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, Barton County Administrator, will provide details. Fire District officials were asked to submit a preliminary budget request for the 2024 Operating Year. It is now presented to receive public comment.

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Consider Approval of Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Minutes of the May 31, 2023, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Cell phones and other electronic devices, other than those used by the media and law enforcement, should be shut off.

II. OLD BUSINESS – Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

III. NEW BUSINESS – All new business to be considered by the Governing Body will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ADOPTION OF THE 2024 FIRE DISTRICT OPERATING BUDGET: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. The Budget Hearing for the proposed 2024 Operating Budget was conducted prior to this Regular Meeting. The Governing Body is now asked to consider adoption of the proposed budget.

IV. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Next Regular Meeting will be announced at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630010086631.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3pRDv5O. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Budget Hearing and Agenda Meeting August 15, 2023 9:00 a.m. until Close of Commission Meeting 1500 Kansas Avenue, Great Bend&nbsp;BUDGET HEARINGBUDGET HEARING: 2024 Operating Budget: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. Elected officials, Department Heads and supported agencies were asked to submit budget requests for the 2024 Operating Year. The Commission reviewed the requests and, with the assistance of the Administrator, drafted a balanced operating budget. The proposed 2024 Operating Budget is now presented to receive public comment.CLOSE BUDGET HEARINGAGENDA MEETINGI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Minutes of the August 8, 2023, Regular Meeting are not available. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of August 1, 2023, and ending August 15, 2023.III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ADOPTION OF THE 2024 BARTON COUNTY OPERATING BUDGET: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. At the Budget Hearing for the proposed 2024 Operating Budget for Barton County, conducted prior to this Regular Agenda Meeting, public comments were received. The Commission is now asked to consider adoption of the budget.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. ADOPTION OF THE 2024 AUTHORIZED POSITIONS LISTING: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. To assure that offices are operating with appropriate personnel, the 2024 Authorized Positions listing is presented for adoption. The listing includes all County positions, including Central Kansas Community Corrections and 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services, as both fall under the umbrella of County operations.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT AND EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT PLANS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. Through the budgeting process, Barton County transfers cash, as savings, to both the Capital Improvement and the Equipment Replacement Plans. These plans, revised annually, allow the County to plan for projected long-term expenditures.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. ROAD AND BRIDGE: Overrun – KanEquip – Equipment Repair: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Darren Williams, County Works Director, will provide details. On May 10, 2023, the Commission authorized the repair of a 2016 Case/IHC Maximum 150 mowing tractor. KanEquip had estimated labor and materials for the clutch repair at $28,195.04. With a not to exceed cap of $30,000.00, final billing totaled $31,905.28. Mr. Williams will ask that the Commission approve the $1,905.28 overrun.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will meet as the Governing Board of Fire District No. 1. -Following the close of the meetings, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified&nbsp;positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:00 a.m. – Budget Hearing and Agenda Meeting – Fire District No. 1.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. or following the close of the Fire District Meeting – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Administrator.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Program Update and Budget Discussion – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:00 a.m. – Update to the County Bridge Weight Limit Resolution – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11:15 a.m. – Audit Review – Jamie Benyshek, AdamsBrown.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1:30 p.m. – Mental Health and Incarceration Costs – Julie Kramp, Executive Director, The Center.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3:00 p.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director, is scheduled for August 17, 2023.VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting County business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 22, 2023.VII. ADJOURN.---GOVERNING BODY OF FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1 Budget Hearing and Agenda Meeting Aug. 15 - 10 a.m. or immediately following the Close of the Agenda MeetingBUDGET HEARINGBUDGET HEARING: 2024 Operating Budget: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Matt Patzner, Barton County Administrator, will provide details. Fire District officials were asked to submit a preliminary budget request for the 2024 Operating Year. It is now presented to receive public comment.CLOSE BUDGET HEARINGAGENDA MEETINGI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Consider Approval of Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Minutes of the May 31, 2023, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Cell phones and other electronic devices, other than those used by the media and law enforcement, should be shut off.II. OLD BUSINESS – Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS – All new business to be considered by the Governing Body will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ADOPTION OF THE 2024 FIRE DISTRICT OPERATING BUDGET: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. The Budget Hearing for the proposed 2024 Operating Budget was conducted prior to this Regular Meeting. The Governing Body is now asked to consider adoption of the proposed budget.IV. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Next Regular Meeting will be announced at a later date.V. ADJOURN.