City commission approves TIF for new I-70 travel plaza

Additional 2 percent sales tax approved for travel plaza

Triplett, Inc. caps clarified during travel plaza incentive debate

Commissioner proposes tax transparency signage for local businesses

City finance department earns clean 2025 audit

Federal single audit triggered by airport improvement grants

High school students appointed to Youth Leadership Advisory Board

Commission fills vacancies on library and planning boards

City commission approves TIF for new I-70 travel plaza

HAYS, Kan. — The city commission unanimously approved a tax increment financing (TIF) project plan and development agreement for a new travel plaza near Interstate 70 Exit 157. The about $11.1 million 24/7 Travel Store project, located at 230th Avenue and 55th Street, will feature a convenience store, fuel stations, electric vehicle charging, a fast-food restaurant, a dog park and RV campsites. Under the TIF ordinance, the pay-as-you-go TIF will capture incremental property tax revenues for up to 20 years, contributing an estimated $4.5 million toward eligible infrastructure costs while projecting a $28 million net economic benefit to the city.

Additional 2 percent sales tax approved for travel plaza

HAYS, Kan. — In a related unanimous vote, the city commission passed the community improvement district (CID) ordinance, establishing a CID for the new travel plaza. The CID will levy an additional 2 percent special sales tax on retail purchases at the location for up to 22 years, which is estimated to generate $2 million to reimburse developer Triplett, Inc. for eligible construction costs. Commissioners noted the additional tax will only apply to in-store retail purchases and will completely exclude fuel sales.

Triplett, Inc. caps clarified during travel plaza incentive debate

HAYS, Kan. — Prompted by questions regarding the travel plaza's financial projections, Assistant City Manager Jarrod Kuckelman clarified the reimbursement limits for the newly approved tax increment financing (TIF) and community improvement district (CID) incentives. If the business vastly outperforms its projected $7 million in annual retail sales, the incentive reimbursement will halt once it hits the predetermined dollar estimate or the designated time limits, preventing a limitless payout. Additionally, Triplett, Inc. must maintain a 30 percent equity stake in the project to comply with CID terms, acting as a cap to protect the city's financial interests.

Commissioner proposes tax transparency signage for local businesses

HAYS, Kan. — Following the approval of the 2 percent community improvement district (CID) sales tax for the new travel plaza, a commissioner requested the city explore requiring businesses to display signage notifying customers of special taxing districts. The commissioner argued that consumers should be made aware of the extra 2 percent tax before reaching the register, citing similar transparency measures implemented in other municipalities. City staff agreed to review state revenue department regulations to determine if the city has the authority to mandate such disclosures.

City finance department earns clean 2025 audit

HAYS, Kan. — The city received a clean bill of health during the presentation of its 2025 financial audit by a certified public accountant with Adams Brown. The auditor reported an unmodified opinion with no significant deficiencies or statutory violations, noting the city ended the year with $52.28 million in unencumbered cash. Finance director Kim Rupp credited his staff for their diligent work balancing the books throughout the year.

Federal single audit triggered by airport improvement grants

HAYS, Kan. — The 2025 financial report included a specialized federal single audit after the city's federal expenditures surpassed a newly raised $1 million threshold. The city spent $1.29 million in federal funds in 2025, primarily driven by the Hays Regional Airport improvement program. Auditors reported no material weaknesses, significant deficiencies or compliance findings regarding the administration of the federal airport grants, securing another unmodified audit opinion for the city.

High school students appointed to Youth Leadership Advisory Board

HAYS, Kan. — Seven local high school students were unanimously appointed to the Youth Leadership Advisory Board as part of Thursday's consent agenda. The incoming board members, ranging from freshmen to seniors, were recommended by the graduating members of the current youth board after what was described as a highly competitive application process. The new term for the Youth Leadership Advisory Board will officially begin May 1.

Commission fills vacancies on library and planning boards

HAYS, Kan. — The city commission unanimously approved a slate of mayoral appointments to various municipal boards, including the addition of a former educator to the Hays Public Library Board. Alongside a reappointment to the Hays Public Library Board, the commission also approved final terms for current members of the Hays Area Planning Commission and Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals and filled dedicated hospitality spots on the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee.

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