Barton County Commission Summary
Week of March 25, 2026
Commission maintains current voting district boundaries
Commissioners weigh in on state property tax legislation
State grant to fund critical mapping of local schools
Barton County Solid Waste Department opens 2026 recycling grants
County supports purchase of first sheriff's historic revolver
Commission maintains current voting district boundaries
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — The Barton County Commission unanimously voted Tuesday to maintain the current boundaries for its five commission districts. Adopting Resolution 2026-07, the commission agreed that without new census data to guide modifications, the districts should remain as they are. Officials noted the current maps are as compact and equal in population as possible, and maintaining them provides stability for voters during an election year.
Commissioners weigh in on state property tax legislation
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — The commission voiced support for proposed state legislation that would average property tax assessments over a multiyear period and cap increases at 10% to protect taxpayers from sudden market spikes. However, the commission strongly opposed Senate Bill 329. If passed, the bill would force counties to pay for single-property appraisal reports when residents appeal their property values to the State Board of Tax Appeals, the state's tax tribunal, which officials warned would be a heavy burden on local taxpayers.
State grant to fund critical mapping of local schools
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — All 18 kindergarten through 12th grade schools in Barton County will undergo comprehensive indoor and outdoor geographic information system mapping to aid first responders during active shooter situations and other emergencies. The county's 911 dispatch staff secured a State 911 Board Critical Facility Mapping Grant to cover the mapping, which is being conducted by an outside vendor at no cost to local taxpayers. The data will be delivered for local emergency response use under state grant requirements, providing standardized navigation tools for local police and fire departments.
Barton County Solid Waste Department opens 2026 recycling grants
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — Local organizations can now apply for a share of $15,000 in solid waste recycling grants for 2026. The commission authorized the Barton County Solid Waste Department to begin accepting applications from county agencies, cities, school districts and recycling centers. To qualify for the funding, applicants must propose projects that increase local recycling efforts and demonstrate positive economic and environmental impacts for the county.
County supports purchase of first sheriff's historic revolver
BARTON COUNTY, Kan. — The commission approved a letter of support for current Sheriff Brian Bellendir's private purchase of an antique Colt revolver once owned by George N. Moses, Barton County's first sheriff. While no county funds will be used for the purchase, officials plan to partner with the Barton County Historical Society to display the firearm in the courthouse rotunda. The display will also feature the courthouse's heavy original doors and historic equipment to showcase the county's heritage to the public.
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