Newton local news summary
Week of October 29 2025
Defense tech firm to open testing facility at Newton airport
Fee increase proposed for bulky item brush pickups
City to seek bids for solar panel installation at golf course
City, KDOT approve agreement for Sand Creek bike path extension
Early voting turnout trending above previous comparable cycle
Defense tech firm to open testing facility at Newton airport
NEWTON, Kan. — The Newton City Commission and Harvey County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a lease agreement Tuesday with a defense and artificial intelligence firm, Shield AI, that plans to establish a testing facility for its next-generation aircraft at the Newton City/County Airport. The move is expected to bring 30 to 60 high-paying jobs to the area for positions including engineers, software developers and other staff. A company representative said the Newton facility will be used for component testing, software integration and engine testing for a new aircraft. The agreement includes a lease for 10,000 square feet of hangar space, 6,000 square feet of office space and three acres of land.
Greg Loving
Fee increase proposed for bulky item brush pickups
NEWTON, Kan. — Residents who mix tree limbs and brush with other bulky trash items may soon see a higher fee. During a first reading of amendments to the city’s sanitation code, Public Works Director Ed Bonham proposed an additional $10 charge for bulky item pickups that include yard waste. The current fee is $10 for up to five items. Under the proposal, a mixed pickup of general items and brush would cost $20. Bonham explained the increase is necessary because limbs must be taken to a separate location, requiring a second truck and trip by city staff. The commission took no action and will consider the ordinance for approval at a future meeting.
City to seek bids for solar panel installation at golf course
NEWTON, Kan. — The city will move forward with soliciting proposals for a solar panel installation at Sand Creek Station Golf Course after receiving approval from the city commission. Staff identified the golf course as the “path of least resistance” for a pilot solar project, as a ground-based array would not require engineering studies of city building rooftops. The request for proposals will allow the city to gather updated, concrete financial data to determine if the project is a viable way to save money on energy costs. Staff will evaluate the bids and present a formal plan to the commission for a final decision.
City, KDOT approve agreement for Sand Creek bike path extension
NEWTON, Kan. — A project to extend the Sand Creek Bike Path is moving into the design phase after the City Commission approved an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation under the federal Carbon Reduction Program. The city previously approved issuing a request for qualifications to select a design consultant; the selection will be brought back to the commission. The extension would create a continuous off-road trail from Sand Creek Station Golf Course on the south to Bethel College on the north and add access to R. Michael Rhoades Wetland Park on SW 14th St.
Early voting turnout trending above previous comparable cycle
HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. - Early voting for the upcoming election is tracking ahead of the previous comparable cycle, County Clerk Rick Piepho reported to the commission. As of the close of business Monday, 236 residents had cast their ballots since early voting began last week — approximately 60 more than at the same point two years ago. He said it remains to be seen if this indicates a higher overall turnout or a shift in voting habits toward early and advance options.
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