Hays City Commission Summary
Week of November 6, 2026
Commission reviews solid waste rate increases
City strategizes trash truck replacements to save funds
Annual fall citywide cleanup disposal costs up to $12,000
Commission advances Pteranodon Addition plat for former tree farm
E-scooter safety and ER injuries spark ordinance warning
Fort Hays State University forms group to reimagine Sternberg Museum
Local VFW canteen now open to the general public
Commission reviews solid waste rate increases
HAYS, Kan. — The Hays City Commission is considering an increase to the city's monthly solid waste rate, which currently sits at $19.91. Solid Waste Superintendent Joe Billinger presented projections showing the sanitation reserve fund will be depleted by 2029 without a rate hike, threatening the city's ability to purchase $400,000 replacement trash trucks. Commissioners debated between a gradual stair-step approach or a single larger increase, ultimately directing staff to prepare two options for a vote next week: an immediate jump to a $25 flat rate, or a three-step increase to $22, $24 and $26 over the coming years.
City strategizes trash truck replacements to save funds
HAYS, Kan. — To keep utility rates as low as possible, the city's solid waste department is stretching the lifespan of its automated refuse trucks up to nine years, well past the six-year industry standard. While maintaining the high-hour vehicles costs the city approximately $100,000 annually, officials noted this strategy successfully delays massive capital expenditures. The department plans to replace two of its 2019 trucks in 2028, delaying the third replacement to 2029 to stagger costs.
Annual fall citywide cleanup disposal costs up to $12,000
HAYS, Kan. — During a broader discussion on the solid waste budget, city staff reported that the recent fall citywide cleanup cost approximately $10,000 to $12,000 in direct disposal fees. Officials noted this figure only covers the tipping fees at the Ellis County transfer station and does not factor in fuel, equipment wear or the time of the city staff members who operated the cleanup during their regular, paid shifts.
Commission advances Pteranodon Addition plat for former tree farm
HAYS, Kan. — The commission reviewed the final plat for the Pteranodon Addition, a nearly 22-acre lot located south of Interstate 70 and east of Commerce Parkway. Director of Public Works Jesse Rohr noted the site, formerly the parks department's tree farm, was rezoned for light industrial use in December 2025. Although the Federal Highway Administration requires an $837,000 payment to lift a public-use restriction on the land, city officials clarified that a future developer, not the city, would bear that cost. The commission moved the plat forward for final approval at its next meeting.
E-scooter safety and ER injuries spark ordinance warning
HAYS, Kan. — City commissioners issued a stern warning to parents regarding the unsafe use of motorized e-scooters by children, noting a significant rise in scooter-related emergency room visits. Officials urged parents to ensure children wear helmets and use lights, especially following the end of daylight saving time, to prevent accidents in low-light conditions. While commissioners expressed a desire to avoid drafting a regulatory city ordinance, they warned that further injuries might force legislative action.
Fort Hays State University forms group to reimagine Sternberg Museum
HAYS, Kan. — Fort Hays State University has formed a community working group to reimagine the future of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. The initiative aims to keep the facility open to the public while exploring new operational strategies.
Local VFW canteen now open to the general public
HAYS, Kan. — The local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9076 has opened its canteen to the general public, expanding access beyond its traditional membership base. It was announced during Thursday's meeting that residents are encouraged to visit the facility and support local veterans.
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