Barton County Commission Summary
Week of July 8, 2026
Bat Cats praised for community volunteerism
Bat Cats eye NBC World Series run
Longtime Independent Township board members resign; replacements appointed
Commissioners to tour Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
County clerk to discuss elections on local radio
Ellinwood After Harvest Festival seeks parade entries
Bat Cats praised for community volunteerism
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — During Tuesday's proclamation ceremony, the commission praised the Great Bend Bat Cats for their extensive volunteer work and community involvement. It was noted that three players recently helped coach a local Little League team. Team manager Roger Ward also highlighted the team's willingness to engage with young fans through postgame autographs and on-field events.
Bat Cats eye NBC World Series run
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — Great Bend Bat Cats manager Roger Ward told the commission Tuesday that his team is currently in first place in the Jayhawk Collegiate League and fighting for a berth in the National Baseball Congress World Series. Ward noted that the team came up one win short of qualifying in the previous two summers, and he hopes this year's roster can secure a spot in the 92nd annual tournament in Wichita.
Longtime Independent Township board members resign; replacements appointed
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — The commission accepted the resignations of two longtime Independent Township board members on Tuesday. The township treasurer and a township trustee both stepped down, citing personal reasons. It was estimated the pair had served the township for roughly 25 years, and gratitude was expressed for their extended service. Following the resignations, the commission unanimously appointed a new treasurer and a new trustee, with both appointments effective immediately. The exact names of the outgoing and incoming officeholders were not immediately available from county commission records.
Commissioners to tour Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — County commissioners are scheduled to tour the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge this week to evaluate vegetation management and ongoing water issues. Officials from neighboring Stafford and Pawnee counties are also expected to join the tour, which follows a recent regional water meeting addressing usage concerns in the area.
County clerk to discuss elections on local radio
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler is scheduled to appear on KVGB-AM's "The County Edition" program this Thursday, July 9, at 11:05 a.m. It was noted Tuesday that Schmeidler will discuss upcoming election information, urging citizens to tune in for details on the local electoral process as campaign season approaches.
Ellinwood After Harvest Festival seeks parade entries
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — With the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival fast approaching, organizers are urging residents and businesses to submit their parade entries. It was announced Tuesday that the festival kicks off Thursday, with the parade slated for 10 a.m. Saturday, July 18. Entries can be submitted through the Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce.
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