Commission approves stricter water conservation plan despite dissent

Decision on water rate increases delayed to February

Long-term water and sewer improvement plans approved

Police department authorized to purchase new vehicles

Officers recognized for heroism in crisis intervention

Concerns raised over public access to study sessions

County secures $750,000 federal grant for communications project

Treasurer reports on tax collection and proposed statement changes

Nonprofit requests funding to combat rising food and housing insecurity

Bids approved for Solomon Road bridge repairs

Public works prepares for impending winter storm

Commission renews courthouse security contract with rate increase

Bed shortage at juvenile detention center increases transport costs

Commission approves stricter water conservation plan despite dissent

ABILENE, Kan. — In a 4-1 vote, the city commission approved Ordinance 26-3471, adopting a new water conservation plan that shifts from voluntary to mandatory restrictions during water warnings and emergencies. The ordinance maintains existing triggers for conservation stages but empowers the commission to enforce mandatory measures, including fines and potential jail time for violators. One commissioner voted against the measure, arguing that the penalty provisions—which include up to 30 days in jail—were unreasonable for water violations and expressing concern that city staff may not be able to comply with the strict letter of the law regarding plant watering.

Decision on water rate increases delayed to February

ABILENE, Kan. — Commissioners reviewed proposed Ordinance 26-3472, which would establish a new tiered water rate structure and set a standard residential fixed monthly charge of $26.60. The proposal includes a three-tier volumetric rate system designed to encourage conservation, with higher costs for usage exceeding 4,000 and 10,000 gallons. The commission agreed to postpone the final vote until the Feb. 9 meeting to allow time for public education and final adjustments to the ordinance, which also proposes a year-round ban on outdoor watering between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Long-term water and sewer improvement plans approved

ABILENE, Kan. — The commission unanimously approved the 2026-2034 Capital Improvement and Equipment Reserve Plans for the water and sewer departments. Finance Director Kelsey Briand presented the plans as "living documents" intended to guide long-term infrastructure maintenance and financial planning. The approval does not immediately authorize spending but sets the strategic priorities for utility upgrades over the next decade.

Police department authorized to purchase new vehicles

ABILENE, Kan. — The commission approved the purchase and outfitting of two 2026 Dodge Durangos for the Abilene Police Department in a 4-1 vote. The vehicles will be purchased from a regional auto dealer for $61,630, with upfitting services provided by a specialized vehicle outfitting firm for approximately $19,800. One commissioner cast the sole dissenting vote against the motion, which utilized funds from the 2026 equipment reserve plan.

Officers recognized for heroism in crisis intervention

ABILENE, Kan. — During the public forum, Police Chief Jason Wilkins and the commission recognized one sergeant and one officer for their exceptional conduct during a Jan. 16 incident. The officers responded to a welfare check involving an armed subject contemplating self-harm; through de-escalation strategies and the establishment of a safety perimeter, the officers successfully convinced the individual to exit the residence unarmed and receive mental health treatment without injury to anyone involved.

Concerns raised over public access to study sessions

ABILENE, Kan. — One commissioner raised concerns regarding Kansas Open Meetings Act compliance for study sessions held at city hall, specifically citing locked doors that may bar public entry. The commissioner questioned whether the current setup met the intent of the law. Interim City Manager Jon Quinday assured the commission that staff monitors the entrance and provides a phone number for access, but agreed that ensuring full public accessibility is critical for compliance.

County secures $750,000 federal grant for communications project

County Administrator Janelle Dockendorf announced that Dickinson County has been awarded $750,000 through a federal appropriations bill to fund an ongoing Sheriff's Office technology upgrade. The commission expressed gratitude to U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran and his staff for their assistance in securing the funds, which will help offset costs for necessary upgrades that previously lacked sufficient funding.

Treasurer reports on tax collection and proposed statement changes

The county treasurer reported that the county has collected 61 percent of its taxes for the year and generated $27,000 in interest from general accounts and $250,000 from certificates of deposit. The treasurer also informed the commission of ongoing negotiations with a new vendor to redesign next year's tax statements to improve readability for taxpayers, noting the switch may cost an estimated $1,000 more than current printing costs.

Nonprofit requests funding to combat rising food and housing insecurity

Representatives from Neighbor to Neighbor Abilene presented a request for financial assistance during a work study session, citing a deficit budget and increased demand for services. Co-Director Amanda Robinson told the commission that the organization, which provides emergency rent assistance, a 24/7 food pantry and a mobile hygiene unit, is seeking approximately $20,000 to sustain operations, though the commission made no formal decision on the funding during the meeting.

Bids approved for Solomon Road bridge repairs

The commission voted unanimously to purchase materials for bridge repairs located at 1343 Solomon Road following a recommendation from the county's public works staff. The board accepted a bid of $37,550 from a regional construction supplier for decking and sheeting, and a separate bid of $40,785 from Husker Steel for structural steel.

Public works prepares for impending winter storm

County Administrator Janelle Dockendorf reported that the Public Works Department has shifted focus from cutting trees to pre-treating roads with brine in anticipation of a severe winter storm. With forecasts predicting 4 to 8 inches of snow and high winds, officials urged residents to avoid travel as crews prepare for potential blizzard conditions.

Commission renews courthouse security contract with rate increase

The commission approved a two-year agreement with SD Security LLC to continue providing security services for the Dickinson County Courthouse. The new contract includes a wage increase from $28.50 to $30 per hour, with the county budgeting $120,000 annually for the service, which covers daily operations, after-hours meetings and election security.

Bed shortage at juvenile detention center increases transport costs

During a work study session, the commission discussed logistical and financial challenges facing the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility, specifically a lack of bed availability that forces the county to transport juveniles to facilities as far away as Girard, Kan. It was noted that these long-distance transports incur significant overtime and fuel costs for the county while law enforcement officers wait for bed space to open.

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