County weighs internalizing trash hauling operations to counter rate hikes

New federal weight limit signs prompt concern for local bridges

Public Works prepares for major bridge replacements

Mill levy projected among lowest in state as sales tax revenues grow

Clerk addresses tax notice confusion, reports 32% primary turnout

Mobile paramedicine program draws attention from U.S. senator

County weighs internalizing trash hauling operations to counter rate hikes

DICKINSON COUNTY, Kan. — Dickinson County is considering a $700,000 to $1 million initial investment to take over solid waste hauling operations as its current vendor contract nears its March expiration. With Republic Services, which county officials say has been unresponsive to new proposals, and industry hauling rates expected to jump from $72 to over $110 per ton, officials estimate internalizing the process could pay for itself in four to five years. The county plans to explore purchasing trailers, a loader, and an excavator, noting that handling the 10,000 tons of local trash annually in-house would prevent roughly $1 million in fees from leaving the local economy each year.

New federal weight limit signs prompt concern for local bridges

DICKINSON COUNTY, Kan. — New federal transportation guidelines will require the county to post updated weight limit signs on local bridges by 2029, raising concerns about the area's agricultural infrastructure. County officials noted the $200 signs will necessitate additional GPS-based bridge inspections, adding to departmental expenses. Officials expressed concern during a recent meeting that aging local bridges cannot support modern, heavier farming equipment — such as 60,000-pound combines carrying large grain tanks — underscoring the need for proactive public education and alternate routing to prevent expensive infrastructure damage.

Public Works prepares for major bridge replacements

DICKINSON COUNTY, Kan. — The Dickinson County Public Works Department announced that the 1100 Avenue bridge deck has been poured and the roadway is expected to reopen by mid-September. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for a $2 million replacement of the truss bridge at 1060 and 1900 avenues. Appraisals and land purchases for the 240-working-day project are currently in progress, with heavy construction and dirt work expected to begin in the spring to avoid frozen ground conditions.

Mill levy projected among lowest in state as sales tax revenues grow

DICKINSON COUNTY, Kan. — The Dickinson County mill levy is projected to be 48.4 for the upcoming fiscal year, placing the county among the lowest 30 in Kansas for property tax rates. Assistant County Administrator Marcus Rothchild reported that sales tax revenues are currently up 3%, or about $30,000, compared to the first seven months of last year. Rothchild noted that the county's property tax per capita is approximately $758, reflecting strong local economic management compared to similarly sized counties across the state.

Clerk addresses tax notice confusion, reports 32% primary turnout

DICKINSON COUNTY, Kan. — Dickinson County Clerk Jennifer Gaytan addressed public confusion over state-mandated revenue neutral rate notices, reminding taxpayers that an increase in appraised property value can raise tax bills even if a local mill levy drops. Gaytan also reported a 32.41% voter turnout for the August primary election, with 4,499 total votes cast and 921 early voters. The turnout represents a notable increase compared to comparable past primaries, which saw a 26% turnout.

Mobile paramedicine program draws attention from U.S. senator

DICKINSON COUNTY, Kan. — Dickinson County's mobile health and community paramedicine program recently drew a visit from U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, who praised the initiative's impact on rural health. Funded by a $400,000 Patterson Family Foundation grant, the program — led by Director of EMS and Public Health John Hultgren — helps recently discharged hospital patients manage complex medications, prevent falls, and coordinate home safety modifications. The program currently has eight active participants and has served 32 applicants, bridging a crucial gap in local health care and keeping vulnerable residents safe in their homes.

Click here for local obituaries

Click here for local jail logs

Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:

Contact Us