Dodge City local news summary

Commission approves $4.4 million increase for water utility projects

Equipment failure at wastewater plant prompts budget adjustment

Strong sales tax returns fuel $1.4 million boost for street repairs

Transient guest tax revenues fund downtown lights and art

City allocates funds for Boot Hill facade and mural renovations

Local agencies awarded over $172,000 in alcohol and drug prevention grants

Commission approves raise, auto allowance hike for city manager

Commission approves $4.4 million increase for water utility projects

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The city commission voted unanimously to amend the 2025 water utility fund by more than $4.4 million following a public hearing Tuesday. Finance Director Nicole May reported that the increase covers the purchase of new meters to accommodate housing growth and connect to the Neptune system, totaling nearly $1 million. The amendment also allocates $941,000 for waterline replacements on 113 Road and funds recent water right purchases.

Equipment failure at wastewater plant prompts budget adjustment

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The commission authorized a $771,534 increase to the wastewater utility fund to address equipment failures at the South Wastewater Treatment Plant. The failure of anaerobic digester number four necessitated emergency spending, including $118,000 for pump rentals, $182,000 for investigation by Braun Intertec and $69,000 for a roof replacement. Officials noted that while some costs might be recoverable later, the budget authority was required immediately to cover the expenses.

Strong sales tax returns fuel $1.4 million boost for street repairs

DODGE CITY, Kan. — Citing higher-than-expected revenue collections, the commission approved a $1.4 million increase to the street sales tax fund. Finance Director Nicole May told commissioners that sales tax returns have risen consistently over the last two years, allowing the city to increase the quantity and scope of scheduled street projects.

Transient guest tax revenues fund downtown lights and art

DODGE CITY, Kan. — An increase in transient guest tax collections led the commission to approve a $200,000 budget amendment for tourism-related improvements. The additional revenue covered unbudgeted expenses, including $70,000 for downtown Christmas lights. Finance Director Nicole May noted that the 2 percent tax on guest stays generated sufficient cash to cover these community enhancements without dipping into other funds.

City allocates funds for Boot Hill facade and mural renovations

DODGE CITY, Kan. — As part of the transient guest tax budget amendment, the commission approved funding for downtown revitalization efforts. The allocation includes $50,000 for phase one of the Boot Hill Museum facade project and just over $40,000 for renovations to the Stan Herd Stagecoach mural. These cultural assets are part of the city's broader push to maintain key tourist attractions.

Local agencies awarded over $172,000 in alcohol and drug prevention grants

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The commission approved the distribution of $172,700 in grants to four local organizations focused on substance abuse prevention and treatment. New Chance, Inc. received the largest portion at $93,200, followed by Friends of Recovery Association at $45,000 and Compass Behavioral Health at $30,000. The funds are derived from the city's portion of the state alcohol and drug tax, which statutes require be used for prevention, intervention and treatment programs.

Commission approves raise, auto allowance hike for city manager

DODGE CITY, Kan. — Commissioners voted 5-0 to approve a contract agreement for City Manager Nick Hernandez that includes a 5 percent salary increase. In addition to the salary adjustment, the amended contract increases the manager's monthly automobile allowance by $150. The changes become effective immediately.

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