Commission sets public hearing for Salt Lick golf resort STAR bond

County approves $63,000 for South Hutchinson housing incentives

Commissioners address battery storage concerns, clarify permit status

Delayed equipment and maintenance expected to increase EMS budget

New EMS stations aim to improve county response times

Commission adopts strategic priorities for 2026-2027

County budget study sessions scheduled to begin in May

Hutchinson to host Kansas County Commissioners Association conference

County to participate in 'Love Where You Live' community meeting

Commission sets public hearing for Salt Lick golf resort STAR bond

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission unanimously approved a resolution to schedule a May 13 public hearing regarding the establishment of a Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) bond district for the proposed Salt Lick Golf and Hunting Resort east of Hutchinson, planned for the former Cottonwood Hills Golf Club site. The roughly 620-acre project aims to feature 45 holes of golf, a clubhouse and up to 200 lodging units. Developers hope to open the first phase by 2027, utilizing the state's STAR bond program — which captures sales tax revenue generated within the district — to help finance the project.

County approves $63,000 for South Hutchinson housing incentives

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission unanimously approved a plan to provide $63,000 in housing incentives to the city of South Hutchinson to spur residential development. The funds, drawn from the county's economic development reserves, will assist LUXE Kansas LLC, a construction firm owned by Nate Hiatt that is relocating to the area from Sterling. Officials said the incentives will offset high building costs and help price the new homes at fair market value, aligning with the county's broader 2024 strategy to increase local housing stock.

Commissioners address battery storage concerns, clarify permit status

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Following significant public comment from residents demanding a moratorium on battery energy storage systems and data centers near Buhler, county officials clarified that the county has not yet received an official conditional use permit application for such a project. Residents cited fire risks, toxic emissions and aquifer depletion as reasons for a ban. The concerns were acknowledged during the meeting, with staff noting that the county is holding joint discussions with the cities of Hutchinson and South Hutchinson to ensure natural resources and safety protocols are established before any potential industrial projects proceed.

Delayed equipment and maintenance expected to increase EMS budget

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It was reported during a recent meeting that the county's emergency medical services (EMS) budget is expected to increase slightly this year due to ongoing supply chain issues. During a recent EMS transparency meeting with Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, which partners with the county on EMS services, officials noted that new ambulances ordered two years ago remain undelivered. The delay has forced the department to maintain aging equipment, leading to higher repair costs that will ultimately impact taxpayers.

New EMS stations aim to improve county response times

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Relocations and upgrades to county emergency medical services (EMS) facilities are expected to improve emergency response times, according to a recent transparency report given to the commission. Crews have actively begun moving into the newly completed EMS Station 2 in Hutchinson, which relocates an ambulance closer to the population it serves. To showcase the upgrades, the county will host public open houses for Station 2 on April 17 and Reno County EMS Station 3 in Arlington on April 24.

Commission adopts strategic priorities for 2026-2027

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The commission unanimously adopted its key strategic priorities for 2026 and 2027, formalizing goals discussed during a February retreat. The adopted priorities include maintaining the county workforce through competitive pay, limiting property tax growth by tying increases to inflation and evaluating departmental efficiency. Additionally, the strategic plan pledges to encourage local economic development and improve transparency so residents better understand county operations.

County budget study sessions scheduled to begin in May

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — County Administrator Randy Partington announced that study sessions for the upcoming county budget will begin in late May. The sessions will immediately follow regular commission meetings and will involve presentations from various county departments and partner agencies outlining their funding requests. The staggered approach is designed to give ample time to review operational costs and align spending with the newly adopted strategic priorities.

Hutchinson to host Kansas County Commissioners Association conference

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County will host the Kansas County Commissioners Association (KCCA) Annual Conference starting April 22. It was noted during the meeting that securing the statewide event provides a valuable opportunity to bring business to the county and network with other local government officials. At least three Reno County commissioners are registered to attend the educational sessions.

County to participate in 'Love Where You Live' community meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An upcoming Hutchinson Community Foundation "Love Where You Live" community meeting scheduled for April 14 was highlighted, aimed at assisting smaller municipalities within Reno County. The initiative focuses on community engagement and infrastructure revitalization efforts in rural areas. Officials encouraged participation, viewing it as an opportunity to gather helpful information for the county's smaller towns.

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