Hutchinson local news summary
Week of October 22 2025
Council approves water, wastewater rate hikes to fund major upgrades
City taps local developer for 30-home subdivision on Hayes site
New playground equipment approved for Fairgrounds Park
Animal shelter to receive new ‘free-range cat room’ funded by trust
Hutchinson fire chief Steven Beer announces 2026 retirement
‘Elevate Reno County’ strategic plan unveiled
‘Make My Move’ program shows early traction
Contract approved for industrial park engineering work
Advocacy group to lobby KDOT for U.S. 50 expansion
Community Corrections reports on recidivism, seeks state funding increase
Council approves water, wastewater rate hikes to fund major upgrades
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council unanimously approved a multi-year increase in water and wastewater rates Tuesday to fund an estimated $120 million in critical infrastructure projects over the next decade. Residents will see monthly water bills rise by $3 to $4 annually for the next four years, while sewer rates will increase by $4.50 to $6 per month for three years before leveling off. The new rate structure, effective Jan. 1, 2026, also introduces a tiered system to encourage conservation and establishes a $100,000 utility assistance program for low-income households. City officials said the increases are necessary to address aging pipes, some dating to the 1890s, and to fund significant upgrades at the city’s water and wastewater treatment plants.
City taps local developer for 30-home subdivision on Hayes site
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In a major step to address the local housing shortage, the City Council awarded a contract to a local developer to develop a 30-unit, single-family home subdivision on city-owned land near 11th and Hayes streets. The project will feature a mix of ranch-style and two-story homes with prices ranging from $229,000 to $300,000, targeting the “missing middle” housing market identified in the city’s recent housing assessment. Housing Coordinator Carissa Paxton said the development will allow current homeowners to move into larger homes, freeing up starter homes for new buyers. The project will be built over three years and will utilize a Rural Housing Incentive District to finance infrastructure without special assessments on the properties.
New playground equipment approved for Fairgrounds Park
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fairgrounds Park will receive a new, modern playground after the City Council approved the purchase of equipment from Cunningham Recreation for $141,183. The project includes a primary play structure with shade, swings and pour-in-place safety surfacing to improve accessibility. Justin Combs, director of parks and facilities, told the council the final price was reduced by over $20,000 after his department agreed to self-perform site preparation work, such as excavation and rock installation. The purchase is partially offset by a $25,000 grant.
Animal shelter to receive new ‘free-range cat room’ funded by trust
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is moving forward with plans for a new free-range cat room addition after the council approved a $24,350 design contract with WDM Architects. The project, which will provide a cage-free, open environment to reduce stress and improve adoption rates for cats, will be funded entirely by the private Gladys F. Gossage Charitable Foundation Trust. Animal Services Director Michaela Schommer said the new space will enhance animal welfare and allow potential adopters to better see the cats’ true personalities. The design includes two indoor rooms and two secure outdoor “catios.”
Hutchinson fire chief Steven Beer announces 2026 retirement
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer will retire on March 27, 2026, after nine years leading the department and 41 years in the fire service. City Manager Enrico Villegas read a letter from Beer during Tuesday’s meeting, in which the chief expressed gratitude to the community and his department. “The support from this community, city manager, city council, city staff and fire department members is unparalleled,” Beer wrote. Villegas praised Beer’s leadership, noting the respect he has earned for the department and his instrumental role in mentoring other public safety leaders as an assistant city manager.
‘Elevate Reno County’ strategic plan unveiled
RENO COUNTY, Kan. - A new five-year economic development strategic plan—presented by the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce with consultant Aha! Advisors and led by strategist Amy Holloway—was outlined for the Reno County Commission on Tuesday. The plan targets growth in advanced manufacturing, technology, professional services, mining, value-added agriculture and aviation, with initiatives spanning high-wage job creation, talent pipeline development, housing, childcare capacity and a county image campaign. The strategy presentation referenced local infrastructure momentum, including Evergy’s planned natural-gas generation facility in Reno County coming online in 2030.
‘Make My Move’ program shows early traction
RENO COUNTY, Kan. - The Chamber of Commerce reported early traction with its MakeMyMove talent-attraction program for remote workers and new residents, following the county’s late-2024 approval to fund Reno County’s participation. The local MakeMyMove package is live, offering relocation incentives (e.g., homebuyer bonus and connectivity perks) to qualified movers. Officials said they expect additional movers in the coming months as the pipeline matures.
Contract approved for industrial park engineering work
RENO COUNTY, Kan. - Commissioners approved a contract with JEO Consulting Group, which has a Wichita office, for preliminary engineering and surveying tied to road work serving the Kimbell Industrial Park area and the planned Evergy facility. Staff said the selection helps keep an aggressive schedule. Project funding is aided by a state BASE 2.0 grant awarded to the Chamber of Commerce’s Growth, Inc., along with prior local American Rescue Plan Act commitments.
Advocacy group to lobby KDOT for U.S. 50 expansion
RENO COUNTY, Kan. - Commissioner Richard Winger reported that the K-96 Corridor Development Association plans to ask the Kansas Department of Transportation to explore expanding U.S. 50 to four lanes between Yoder and Burton at upcoming KDOT consult meetings in Wichita and Pratt. Similar four-lane expansions elsewhere on U.S. 50 and ongoing K-96 work in the region underscore the corridor’s regional importance, proponents say.
Community Corrections reports on recidivism, seeks state funding increase
RENO COUNTY, Kan. - Reno County Community Corrections Director Randy Regehr presented the annual report, noting caseloads driven largely by drug-related offenses and reporting that 64 percent of clients successfully completed supervision in fiscal year 2025 without being sent to prison. The department will advocate for increased state grants for adult supervision and behavioral health to keep pace with costs.
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