McPherson local news summary

Commission approves 2025 budget amendment reflecting revenue increase

New tire store approved for Interchange Business District

City waives fees for Community Christmas Dinner

Commission approves over $357,000 for county building furniture

Decision on alcohol service at 4-H building delayed

IT department authorized to purchase new vehicle

Planning and Zoning replaces hailed-out Jeep

County officials oppose KDOT plan to close Limestone Road

Safety improvements planned for Canton High School entrance

Commission approves 2025 budget amendment reflecting revenue increase

McPHERSON, Kan. - The McPherson City Commission approved an amendment to the 2025 budget following a public hearing, reflecting a increase in sales tax revenue. The original certified budget of was revised due to a larger-than-expected carryover and higher-than-expected transfers. City officials confirmed the additional funds will be distributed to the Street and Highway Fund and Capital Improvement Project funds for the law enforcement center, museum and public lands.

New tire store approved for Interchange Business District

McPHERSON, Kan. - The commission adopted Ordinance 3453, approving a site plan for a new auto parts and service retail store south of the Candlewood Inn and Suites. Planning and zoning officials noted that while the original development agreement for the area hoped for a restaurant, a retail tire chain from the Northwest with over 500 locations has secured the site. The approval includes conditions for strict landscaping and exterior appearance standards to match the district’s aesthetics.

City waives fees for Community Christmas Dinner

McPHERSON, Kan. - The commission approved the use of the McPherson Community Building and waived all rental fees for the 29th annual Community Christmas Dinner. During public input, the organization’s president reported that while sit-down participation has dropped to approximately 340 people, the organization continues to serve nearly 900 total meals through carry-out and delivery services. The event will take place on Dec. 25, 2025.

Commission approves over $357,000 for county building furniture

MCPHERSON, Kan. - Commissioners unanimously approved a quote for new furniture for the McPherson County Building totaling $357,190. The purchase, which utilizes a state contract discount of up to 72 percent on certain items, includes desks, chairs and tables for the renovated facility, as well as installation services. The board also approved a revised change order for the building's exterior and courtyard work, adjusting the total to $399,460 to account for signage changes and a credit for debris removal assistance provided by Public Works.

Decision on alcohol service at 4-H building delayed

MCPHERSON, Kan. - The commission deferred a vote on a request from the All Schools Day committee to allow a mobile bar vendor to serve cocktails at a "Battle of the Bands" fundraiser scheduled for Feb. 21 at the 4-H Building. Event organizers explained that the event is necessary to fund the annual All Schools Day community concert, which faces rising stage costs. Commissioners expressed hesitation regarding alcohol service at that specific county venue and requested time to consult with the 4-H Board before making a final decision next week.

IT department authorized to purchase new vehicle

MCPHERSON, Kan. - The commission approved a request from Information Technology Director Jeff Butler to purchase a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport from Midway Motors for $38,484. The new SUV replaces a 2019 Dodge Durango—formerly a sheriff’s K-9 unit—that sustained significant hail damage and was deemed a loss by insurance. Butler noted the smaller vehicle will offer better fuel efficiency for travel between county facilities and Newton.

Planning and Zoning replaces hailed-out Jeep

MCPHERSON, Kan. - Commissioners voted to replace the Planning and Zoning Department's 2009 Jeep Compass, which was totaled in a summer hailstorm, with a 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 work truck. The board approved the purchase from Midway Motors for $45,100, along with an additional $1,330 for a deck-and-bed drawer system to secure equipment. The total cost for the replacement is not to exceed $46,430.

County officials oppose KDOT plan to close Limestone Road

MCPHERSON, Kan. - During the Public Works update, Director David Bohnenblust reported that the Kansas Department of Transportation’s (KDOT) current design for the U.S. 56 expansion includes the closure of Limestone Road. Bohnenblust noted that the closure is unpopular with local stakeholders and could force heavy truck traffic onto 17th Avenue. The commission agreed to draft a formal statement expressing their opposition to the closure to present to KDOT officials.

Safety improvements planned for Canton High School entrance

MCPHERSON, Kan. - Public Works Director David Bohnenblust announced a collaborative effort to improve safety at the entrance of Canton High School. The county will patch and pave the area within the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) right-of-way to assist school buses and local traffic. Bohnenblust stated that KDOT approved the work and that the school district was appreciative of the safety upgrade.

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