Barton County Commission Summary
Week of June 24, 2026
New motor vehicle transaction fee approved
Voters advised to review lengthy ballot amendment
Voter registration deadline approaching
Barton County Fair kicks off
New motor vehicle transaction fee approved
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. - A $10 state transaction fee for motor vehicle services was unanimously approved for a three-year period beginning in 2027. The new charge, overseen by Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan and authorized by a recently approved state law, replaces an existing $2.50 facility fee set to expire next summer. The revenue will remain entirely within the county, aiming to make the motor vehicle department self-sufficient and alleviate its reliance on local property taxes.
Voters advised to review lengthy ballot amendment
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. - Local election officials are urging Great Bend and Barton County voters to review their August primary ballots ahead of time due to a lengthy constitutional amendment question. Ballots were uploaded to VoterView this week, allowing residents to read the complex amendment language before heading to the polls. The Barton County Clerk's office, managed by Bev Schmeidler, reminded the public that election staff are legally prohibited from explaining or interpreting the amendment for voters.
Voter registration deadline approaching
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. - The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming Aug. 4 primary election is July 14, with early in-person voting scheduled to begin shortly afterward on July 15. Election officials announced the dates at Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting. Residents can verify their registration status and view their specific sample ballots online through the state's VoterView portal by entering their name and date of birth.
Barton County Fair kicks off
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. - The Barton County Fair begins Wednesday, June 24, at the Great Bend Expo Complex and runs through Sunday, June 28, marking another year of activities and exhibits. Residents are encouraged to attend and support local youth showcasing their animal and project displays. This year's fair also features the return of the carnival, food vendors, and a full schedule of concerts and family events, capping off months of preparation by local 4-H participants and the Barton County Fair Board.
Click here for local obituaries
Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:
