Ellis County Commission Summary
Week of June 3, 2026
Tallgrass Solar Development receives unanimous approval
Future solar project grant revenue outlined
First draft of 2027 county budget unveiled
Motor vehicle tax restructuring proposed to save property tax dollars
County pursues grants for Rome Road bridge replacement
Commission approves Law Enforcement Center renovation contract
High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center opens
Fireworks permitted in unincorporated areas for Independence Day
Tallgrass Solar Development receives unanimous approval
HAYS, Kan. — The Ellis County Commission approved a conditional use permit for the Tallgrass Solar Development at its June 2 meeting. The 175-megawatt project, developed by ibV Energy Partners, drew strong public support for its estimated economic impact, including a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement expected to generate $1.1 million annually for the county. Developers assured neighboring landowners that the project would not expand beyond its initial capacity or include battery storage, and that strict financial bonds will be established to ensure the property is properly restored upon decommissioning.
Future solar project grant revenue outlined
HAYS, Kan. — While the newly approved Tallgrass Solar Development won't generate its full $1.1 million annual payments until power production begins around 2029 or 2030, the county expects to see early financial benefits. County Administrator Darin Myers reported that the county will receive a $200,000 grant upon the completion of a road use agreement in September 2026, and an additional $200,000 community project grant in September 2027. These initial grants will be paid to the county regardless of the project's construction status.
First draft of 2027 county budget unveiled
HAYS, Kan. — County Administrator Darin Myers presented the first draft of the 2027 budget, which anticipates approximately $500,000 in additional revenue and $700,000 in new expenses. Ellis County currently boasts the 14th-lowest mill levy and the fourth-lowest effective property tax rate among Kansas' 105 counties. The draft budget utilizes a $4.58 million unencumbered cash balance and accounts for an estimated 7% increase in employee health insurance costs, alongside continued funding for road maintenance and capital reserves.
Motor vehicle tax restructuring proposed to save property tax dollars
HAYS, Kan. — A forthcoming change to motor vehicle registration fees could help offset the 2027 county budget and provide property tax relief. Thanks to new state legislation taking effect July 1, a resolution is planned to adjust certain vehicle registration fees to better cover the state system's local administrative costs. The shift would allow the county to move three employees from the general fund to the motor vehicle fund, saving taxpayers an estimated $100,000.
County pursues grants for Rome Road bridge replacement
HAYS, Kan. — Ellis County continues to seek funding solutions for the replacement of the Rome Road bridge over Big Creek. The county has applied for a state grant and is simultaneously negotiating with Union Pacific Railroad for a potential new crossing to 8th Street in Hays, though the railroad has requested road closures the county considers unfeasible in exchange. County Administrator Darin Myers indicated the county will persistently reapply for the grant if not awarded this cycle, comparing the effort to the multi-year process that successfully funded the Saline River Bridge.
Commission approves Law Enforcement Center renovation contract
HAYS, Kan. — A design-build contract with PWC and Tessere for the renovation of the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center's basement and main floor was approved. The Hays Police Department is scheduled to vacate the building by the end of the year, allowing the county to repurpose the space. Architectural plans for the first phase of the renovation are expected to be submitted to the State Fire Marshal's Office for approval by mid-to-late July.
High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center opens
HAYS, Kan. — The soft opening of the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center was announced during Tuesday's meeting. While the facility is still working toward full staffing, it has successfully processed its first patients through the new system. The organization is now focusing on community outreach to educate local hospitals and law enforcement agencies on how to properly utilize the new regional mental health resource.
Fireworks permitted in unincorporated areas for Independence Day
HAYS, Kan. — A resolution allowing the discharge of fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Ellis County for the upcoming Independence Day holiday was approved. Residents may legally discharge fireworks from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 2-4. Officials noted that fire incidents related to fireworks have been historically low in the county over the past two years, and local fire departments will monitor staffing levels to ensure prompt emergency responses if necessary.
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