Hutchinson local news summary
Week of January 7 2025
New mayor and council member sworn in
City manager named 'manager of the year'
City manager to prepare service cut scenarios for sales tax vote
Council approves $6 million in bonds for PrairieLand Partners expansion
City pursues new STAR bond project and housing developments
Council reverses course, approves animal zoning request despite protest petition
City staff successfully challenges state floodplain maps
Woody Seat Freeway reopening imminent
Police chief confirms rare methamphetamine manufacturing case
New mayor and council member sworn in
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council reorganized Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, swearing in newly elected at-large councilmember Darrin Truan and selecting new leadership. The council elected Scott Meggers as mayor and Greg Fast as vice mayor, and it recognized outgoing councilmember Jon Richardson.
City manager named 'manager of the year'
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - City Manager Enrico Villegas announced he has been selected as the "City Manager of the Year for 2026" by Government Business Review. Villegas, who was previously recognized as a top 10 city manager, shared the honor with the council and staff.
City manager to prepare service cut scenarios for sales tax vote
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - City Manager Enrico Villegas announced that staff will present "service level reduction" scenarios at the next council meeting to prepare for the potential failure of the upcoming sales tax renewal vote. Villegas emphasized that the goal is not to create panic but to provide transparency regarding specific cuts the city would face if the measure does not pass in March. The presentation will likely occur during a public work session to allow for detailed discussion.
Council approves $6 million in bonds for PrairieLand Partners expansion
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - The Hutchinson City Council unanimously approved a resolution to issue up to $6 million in industrial revenue bonds for PrairieLand Partners. The agricultural equipment dealer plans to expand its commercial facility at 1800 S. Lorraine St. by approximately 32,000 square feet following a recent annexation into city limits. As part of the agreement, the council granted a 10-year property tax abatement, though the city assumes no financial liability for the debt or construction costs.
City pursues new STAR bond project and housing developments
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - City Manager Enrico Villegas revealed that the city is in the early stages of exploring a new STAR bond project, a financing tool used for major tourism and entertainment developments. Additionally, Villegas reported that two Low-Income Housing Tax Credit projects that were previously rejected have been revived by developers. He cited the renewed interest as evidence of a strong investment culture in Hutchinson.
Council reverses course, approves animal zoning request despite protest petition
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - Following a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to approve a zoning change for a residential property on Cloverdale Drive, allowing the owners to keep farm animals including goats, sheep and a donkey. The request faced a valid protest petition from neighbors, requiring a supermajority vote for approval. While council members initially moved to send the item back to the planning commission due to the protests, they proceeded with the vote after the applicant and other neighbors testified that the opposition largely stemmed from a single resident and that the area retains a rural character.
City staff successfully challenges state floodplain maps
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - Public Works Director Cecil Weible reported that city staff and consultants have successfully negotiated with state water officials to revise proposed floodplain maps. By challenging initial data and identifying existing drainage infrastructure, the city achieved a 25 percent to 35 percent reduction in the proposed floodplain area compared to the state's initial estimates. The director noted that further reductions are possible before maps are finalized, potentially saving residents significant costs in flood insurance premiums.
Woody Seat Freeway reopening imminent
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - City officials announced that the Woody Seat Freeway is scheduled to reopen by the end of January, following extensive construction. A public meeting regarding the project is set for Jan. 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Avenue A Elementary School. The meeting will showcase landscaping plans and final details before traffic resumes on the thoroughfare.
Police chief confirms rare methamphetamine manufacturing case
HUTCHINSON, Kan. - Police Chief Brice Burlie confirmed to the council that a recent arrest involved the active manufacturing of methamphetamine inside a Hutchinson residence. The chief noted such cases have become rare in the city. Because the case involved chemical manufacturing rather than simple distribution, the property will likely require remediation and listing on the state Drug Enforcement Administration registry.
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