McPherson – Week of November 27 2024

FLASH….Main and Euclid to reopen…Ann Elliott appointed City Attorney…
1. City of McPherson Schedules Public Hearing to Amend 2024 Budget
2. McPherson Nears Final Allocation of COVID Relief Funds
3. County Approves $175,000 Payment for Marquette Ambulance Service
4. McPherson Unveils Strategic Plan Draft
5. Commissioners Explore Storage and Heating Upgrades for 4H Building
6. McPherson Athletes Named to All-State Soccer Teams

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Emergency logs

Mcpherson County Obituaries: November 20 - 27

Column: Permitting Morass

Restaurant Review: Martinelli’s Little Italy – Salina, KS

FLASH….intersection of Main and Euclid to reopen late today…Ann Elliott appointed City Attorney, succeeding Jeffrey Houston effective Jan. 1 for a term that will end April 30, 2026…

1. City of McPherson Schedules Public Hearing to Amend 2024 Budget

The City of McPherson will hold a public hearing on December 17, 2024, at 9:00 AM in the Municipal Building to discuss amendments to the 2024 budget, driven by increased revenue and expanded project needs. The Capital Improvements Fund is set to rise from $5.3 million to $12.9 million. The municipal golf course exceeded expectations with over $1 million in revenue, enabling early mower purchases. Meanwhile, higher-than-expected hotel stays boosted the Community Improvement District (CID) Fund from a planned $200k to $260k. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input on these adjustments.

Article Source: City of McPherson

2. McPherson Nears Final Allocation of COVID Relief Funds

The City of McPherson is wrapping up its use of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a federal initiative passed in 2021 to support recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. ARPA provided local governments with resources to address public health needs, infrastructure, and economic recovery. In McPherson, the funds have supported five key projects, including a notable allocation to Kids Campus. Remaining funds are being transferred to reimburse completed projects and allocated for future spending to maximize impact. With the funds set to close out by year’s end, city officials are finalizing all accounting to ensure compliance with federal rules and transparency.

Article Source: Ad Astra Radio

3. County Approves $175,000 Payment for Marquette Ambulance Service

McPherson County Commissioners approved a $175,000 payment to Marquette Ambulance Service, allocated under Rural Fire District #2, during their recent meeting. The funds are part of an $875,000 package supported by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which covers the purchase of five ambulances across the county—two funded by ARPA and three through county funds. Marquette's order for one ambulance, placed in April 2023, remains on backorder. Despite the delay, the commission approved the payment to ensure the ARPA funds are fully utilized before the fiscal year ends. This decision supports essential emergency services while maintaining financial compliance.

Article Source: McPherson County

4. McPherson Unveils Strategic Plan Draft

The City of McPherson unveiled a draft strategic plan Friday, focusing on internal processes, infrastructure for future growth, and quality of life improvements. Developed over two years with the assistance of Farmers Alliance CEO Brian Lopata, who provided his expertise at no charge, the plan explores capabilities, processes, finances, and community development. Key initiatives include enhancing operational readiness, professional development, communication, and financial transparency. A major goal is to expand housing capacity to support a population of 25,000.  

Link to plan

Article Source: Ad Astra Radio

5. Commissioners Explore Storage and Heating Upgrades for 4H Building

McPherson County Commissioners discussed storage solutions for various departments, including using the 4H building. Temporary storage options like shipping containers are being considered. The commissioners also addressed the 4H building's heating issues, with two of its four furnaces no longer functional. Replacement units will only provide heating, not air conditioning, and commissioners requested cost estimates for the upgrades. To help cover rising maintenance costs, the board may consider adjusting rental rates for the building, which is often used by nonprofits.

Article Source: Ad Astra Radio

6. McPherson Athletes Named to All-State Soccer Teams

McPherson High School junior Manny Morales has been named to the Class 4-1A Kansas Boys Soccer All-State First Team, earning recognition as one of the top midfielders in the state for the 2024 season. Additionally, McPherson senior Borin Heang secured a spot on the Second Team as a forward, while junior defender Grayson Broadus and junior goalkeeper Gabriel Standfast received honorable mentions.

Article Source: Wichita Eagle

Sources

2. https://www.facebook.com/CityOfMcPhersonLocalGovernment/videos/1033607545186113

3. https://www.facebook.com/CityOfMcPhersonLocalGovernment/videos/1033607545186113

4. https://www.mcphersoncountyks.us/949/BOCC-Recent-Agendas-Minutes-and-Video

5. https://www.adastraradio.com/mac-news/city-of-mcpherson-unveils-strategic-plan-draft-themes-include-processes-and-safety-quality-of-life-economic-growth

6. https://www.mcphersoncountyks.us/949/BOCC-Recent-Agendas-Minutes-and-Video

7. https://www.kansas.com/sports/varsity-kansas/varsity-soccer/article296183724.html