Ellis County Commission Summary
Week of March 3, 2026
New crisis stabilization facility aims to open in 2026
County approves state bridge grant agreement for Saline River crossing
County to review zoning regulations for future developments
Property appraisal notices expected later than usual
Kansas property tax refund options for seniors highlighted
Health department to close briefly for statewide training conference
New crisis stabilization facility aims to open in 2026
ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. - High Plains Mental Health Center is preparing to open the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center in Ellis County, a move intended to reduce pressure on hospital and inpatient systems. Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, told the Ellis County Commission at its March 3 meeting that the project is expected to come online in 2026 following construction and licensing steps. High Plains Mental Health Center said it plans public events tied to the opening.
County approves state bridge grant agreement for Saline River crossing
ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. - The Ellis County Commission unanimously approved an agreement tied to the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program for replacement work on a county bridge over the Saline River. Public works officials told commissioners the agreement also requires the county to remove two structures from its bridge inventory, and that bridges on Saline River Road and in the 2100 block of 100th Avenue will be replaced with culverts to meet Kansas Department of Transportation requirements.
County to review zoning regulations for future developments
ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. - Ellis County officials will review and potentially update the county's subdivision regulations to address inconsistencies and prepare for future industrial development. A temporary pause on new preliminary plats was suggested during the meeting, but county counselor Bill Jeter said staff can clarify existing rules in-house without halting current applications. Jeter also recommended seeking outside expertise to draft zoning regulations for emerging industries such as solar farms, data centers and cryptocurrency mining.
Property appraisal notices expected later than usual
ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. - Ellis County residents are expected to receive real property certified valuation notices later than usual this year, officials announced during the meeting. Ellis County Appraiser Eugene Rupp attributed the slower timeline to staffing pressures and workload.
Kansas property tax refund options for seniors highlighted
ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. - In closing remarks, eligible seniors and other qualifying residents were encouraged to review Kansas property tax refund programs administered by the Kansas Department of Revenue. Residents — particularly those on fixed incomes — were urged to consult a tax professional or accountant to determine eligibility and potential savings.
Health department to close briefly for statewide training conference
ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. - The Ellis County Health Department will close from March 30 through April 1 so staff can attend the 2026 Governor's Public Health Conference, department officials noted. Officials said the training will cover a range of public health topics and that travel and registration will be paid with grant funding. The commission approved the closure unanimously.
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