County explores potential for local data centers

Commissioners demand closer look at housing tax incentives

Sheriff's office to phase out Ford Explorers with $288K vehicle purchase

Jail faces maintenance hurdles, influx of female inmates

New district coroner appointed for 9th Judicial District

County explores potential for local data centers

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — The county is researching the potential impacts of housing data centers in the area following recent informational seminars. Planning and Zoning Director Karen Rothe reported on the massive power and water requirements of such facilities, noting that the industry is shifting away from water-heavy open-loop cooling systems. Interest was expressed during the county commission meeting in the potential economic benefits, but the need for further research on how high energy consumption and property tax exemptions might ultimately affect local taxpayers and infrastructure was emphasized.

Commissioners demand closer look at housing tax incentives

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — County staff were directed to compile a comprehensive financial report on the county's existing Tax Increment Financing and Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts. The request comes as local municipalities explore new RHID applications, which allow developers to capture the increased property tax revenue from new housing projects for up to 25 years to pay off infrastructure costs. Concerns were raised during the meeting about how an influx of new housing without immediate tax revenue might shift the financial burden of county services — such as roads and courts — onto existing residents.

Sheriff's office to phase out Ford Explorers with $288K vehicle purchase

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — The Harvey County Sheriff's Office will purchase five new Dodge Durango patrol vehicles for $288,773.50, continuing a transition away from Ford Explorers. Undersheriff Shawn Chapman noted the V-6 Durangos are significantly cheaper than the Explorers and will result in long-term savings, even with the high cost of emergency upfitting. The standard purchasing policy was waived to expedite the order through an emergency-vehicle vendor on a pre-negotiated state contract.

Jail faces maintenance hurdles, influx of female inmates

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — The Harvey County Detention Center was forced to consolidate two housing pods to accommodate a recent influx of female inmates, Undersheriff Shawn Chapman reported Tuesday. Adding to the facility's logistical challenges, seven jail cells are currently out of service due to maintenance issues. Chapman noted that staff is working diligently to repair the cells and maximize available bed space while actively managing overtime costs within the department.

New district coroner appointed for 9th Judicial District

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — The appointment of Dr. Robert Dillard as the new district coroner for the 9th Judicial District was unanimously approved, effective immediately. The appointee replaces the prior coroner, who recently resigned. The new coroner, a tactical physician for the Harvey County Emergency Response Team with 25 years of emergency room experience, was nominated by the Harvey County Medical Society and will serve the remainder of the unexpired four-year term ending in January 2027.

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

Contact Us