County to draft 'infrasound' noise rules for future data centers

County objects to proposed city lot split rules in extraterritorial jurisdiction

Four-way stops, rumble strips approved for Old Highway 81 intersections

Global AI chip shortage prompts $40,000 server contract extension

MIDC Targets Out-of-State Talent With $6,000 Relocation Grants

McPherson Airport prepares for $1 million fuel system replacement

County to draft 'infrasound' noise rules for future data centers

MCPHERSON, Kan. - Proactive steps are being taken in McPherson County to regulate low-frequency noise, or "infrasound," ahead of potential developments like data centers, battery energy storage facilities and wind turbines. Planning and Zoning Administrator Jon Kinsey presented a draft resolution that would require future industrial applicants to measure ambient noise levels before construction and again while under load. The low-frequency hums, which measure under 20 hertz, are often undetectable to the human ear but can cause sleep disruptions and other nuisances for nearby residents. The state does not regulate noise pollution, leaving it up to local governments. County Counselor Brian Bina is slated to review the resolution before formal consideration.

County objects to proposed city lot split rules in extraterritorial jurisdiction

MCPHERSON, Kan. - County Counselor Brian Bina has been tasked with drafting a letter objecting to a proposed city of McPherson subdivision rule change that could negatively impact rural sanitation. The city is considering a policy to allow administrative approval for up to two lot splits before requiring a formal planning board review. However, county officials noted the proposed language does not exclude the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction — the area immediately outside city limits where the city holds subdivision authority. Planning and Zoning Administrator Jon Kinsey warned that allowing administrative lot splits in rural areas without access to public water and sewer would make it nearly impossible for those properties to meet county sanitation codes.

Four-way stops, rumble strips approved for Old Highway 81 intersections

MCPHERSON, Kan. - Safety upgrades are coming to Old Highway 81 outside of Moundridge following the county commission's approval of a Traffic Engineering Assistance Program study. The study recommends installing permanent rumble strips and converting the intersections at Arrowhead Road and 22nd Avenue into four-way stops to curb a high rate of crashes. Public Works Director David Bohnenblust noted that many accidents occur when drivers on Arrowhead pull out in front of highway traffic, and slowing vehicles down will mitigate the danger. County public works crews will handle the majority of the immediate installations using county funds.

Global AI chip shortage prompts $40,000 server contract extension

MCPHERSON, Kan. - The county will spend $40,720.51 to extend hardware support and licensing for its main computer servers, a move designed to delay purchasing new equipment amid a global microchip shortage. IT Coordinator Jeff Butler explained that the technology industry's shift toward manufacturing chips for artificial intelligence has caused supply shortages and driven up the cost of standard server components. The extension through Eagle Technology covers 32 virtual servers across the McPherson County Courthouse and the Law Enforcement Center, pushing the required replacement dates out to 2029 and 2030 and allowing the county time to budget for the estimated $300,000 future cost.

MIDC Targets Out-of-State Talent With $6,000 Relocation Grants

MCPHERSON, Kan. - The McPherson Industrial Development Company (MIDC) is leveraging a $72,000 "Home in the Heartland" grant to attract out-of-state workers to McPherson County. The McPherson County Community Foundation served as fiscal sponsor, with the Chamber, Mainstreet, and CVB helping build out the relocation package. MIDC's Kasi Morales noted that out-of-state professionals earning over $55,000 annually may be eligible for a $3,000 upfront incentive to relocate, followed by an additional $3,000 after one year of residency. One recipient was mentioned as a participant in relocation incentive programs. Two other applicants are said to be in the pipeline for MIDC's grants. Morales emphasized that with local unemployment remaining exceptionally low, talent attraction and robust community amenities are vital for securing large-scale manufacturing investments.

Correction: An earlier version of this item misattributed the relocation grant program to the McPherson County Community Foundation and named Michelle Huddle as spokesperson. MIDC leads the program, with MCCF serving as fiscal sponsor and Kasi Morales as spokesperson. Details about a program participant have also been revised.

McPherson Airport prepares for $1 million fuel system replacement

MCPHERSON, Kan. - The McPherson Airport is gearing up for a major infrastructure upgrade, with plans to replace its antiquated aircraft fuel system with a modern, above-ground setup. Airport Manager Cynthia Peterson updated the commission on the estimated $1 million project, which will be heavily subsidized by Federal Aviation Administration and Kansas Department of Transportation grants, leaving the local share at approximately $49,000. The new system will feature metal cubicles to shield the equipment from the elements, resolving long-standing maintenance issues caused by sun exposure on the current digital screens.

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