McPherson County Commission Summary
Week of June 23, 2026
Sheriff's office reports low jail population, introduces new officers
Officials advocate for groundwater preservation in neighboring counties
Commissioners approve cleaning contract for new county building
Register of deeds office to close for relocation
County department relocations progressing smoothly
Public Works fuel island repairs expand beyond initial scope
Commissioners question departmental lunch expenses and 911 software costs
Sheriff's office reports low jail population, introduces new officers
MCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson County Jail reported a relatively low population of 43 inmates at this week's meeting, including 39 men and four women. Officials noted 40 inmates are currently being held for district court, three for municipal court and one juvenile is being housed at the facility. The department also introduced two newly hired correctional officers as the county's newest correctional staff.
Officials advocate for groundwater preservation in neighboring counties
MCPHERSON, Kan. — County representatives reported favorable responses from neighboring counties regarding ongoing advocacy to address the lowering of water wells in the region. Following presentations to Harvey and Sedgwick counties and the Little Arkansas Watershed organization, Harvey County officials are reportedly working to amend their comprehensive plan to address the water issues. Further presentations are scheduled with the Groundwater Management District 2 board and Reno County commissioners.
Commissioners approve cleaning contract for new county building
MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson County commissioners approved a $4,954 monthly cleaning contract with Wichita-based City Wide Facility Solutions for the newly renovated county building. City Wide's bid was lower than proposals from two McPherson-based companies, exceeding the county's 4 percent local preference threshold. The one-year contract, which includes a 30-day cancellation clause for inadequate service, will begin July 1.
Register of deeds office to close for relocation
MCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson County Register of Deeds office will close to the public the week of July 6 to facilitate its move into the new county building. Register of Deeds Laurie Wiziarde noted that relocating the office will require moving 450 heavy record books as well as the complete dismantling and reassembly of the department's vault shelving units. Commissioners unanimously approved the temporary closure to ensure a smooth transition and secure transfer of permanent files.
County department relocations progressing smoothly
MCPHERSON, Kan. — The phased relocation of county departments to the new McPherson County building is proceeding on schedule, Maintenance Director Josh Pimentel reported. The Planning and Zoning, Motor Vehicle Tag and Treasurer's offices have successfully completed their moves, while the Appraiser's office is closed this week for its transition. Following the Register of Deeds' move in early July, the county administration offices will be the final department to relocate the subsequent week.
Public Works fuel island repairs expand beyond initial scope
MCPHERSON, Kan. — What began as a single conduit replacement at the Public Works fuel island has expanded into a larger maintenance project after crews discovered multiple conduits had rusted through, exposing electrical wires. Crews are replacing the 35-year-old system's deteriorating metal components with polyvinyl chloride piping and new steel sumps. Public Works Director David Bohnenblust noted the in-house repairs will delay the need for a $1 million total system replacement, though county vehicles will need to purchase fuel off-site until the project's anticipated completion around July 1.
Commissioners question departmental lunch expenses and 911 software costs
MCPHERSON, Kan. — During the approval of weekly financial claims, commissioners discussed county departments purchasing lunch for staff meetings and a $50,968 bill for Emergency Management software licenses. Officials discussed the need for seven software licenses when the county only operates five dispatch consoles, noting that 911 tax revenues will likely fall short of covering emergency communication expenses this year. Commissioners plan to meet with Emergency Management Director Emily Yates to discuss the license count before the bill is due.
Click here for local obituaries
Click here for local jail logs
Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:
