Wellington local news summary

Council addresses ‘scary’ blighted properties on North B Street

Dredging Donut Bay presents costly, complex challenge

Progress reported on Purple Heart city signs

City recognizes seven employees for long-term service

County accepts $100,000 grant for workforce training

Senior services office move under consideration

Council addresses ‘scary’ blighted properties on North B Street

WELLINGTON, Kan. – The Wellington City Council on Tuesday addressed severe blight at two adjacent properties in the 1300 block of North B Street after the issue was raised by multiple council members. Councilwoman Cindy Antonich described the properties, located between 18th and 19th streets, as “scary” and unsafe due to excessive debris and broken windows. Councilman Mike Westmoreland echoed her concerns, stating he had also received calls from residents. “The city has done a disservice to you all,” Westmoreland said, addressing neighbors of the properties. “It’s been the way it is far too long and we have failed you.” He assured the public that the issue is working its way through the city’s legal process.

Dredging Donut Bay presents costly, complex challenge

WELLINGTON, Kan. – A preliminary review of dredging Donut Bay in Woods Park revealed the project would be more complex and costly than anticipated, according to a staff report presented Tuesday. City officials, working with Professional Engineering Consultants, learned the project would require extensive permitting, material testing and the construction of a coffer dam. The initial cost estimate starts at $150,000 and is expected to increase. Due to the complexities, staff suggested the project could potentially be combined with the future Woods Park Dam renovation to share equipment and reduce mobilization costs.

Progress reported on Purple Heart city signs

WELLINGTON, Kan. – Wellington is making progress on its designation as a Purple Heart City, with one of four planned signs now installed. In a report to the council, city staff confirmed that a Purple Heart City sign has been placed on the city’s south approach for traffic entering town. The city is working to secure locations and Kansas Department of Transportation permits for the three remaining signs.

City recognizes seven employees for long-term service

WELLINGTON, Kan. – The City of Wellington honored seven public employees Tuesday for their dedicated long-term service, with a combined 170 years of experience. Mayor Joe Soria recognized the employees and presented checks to those in attendance. The honorees were Travis Horsch of Electric Production (35 years), Mike Clift of Water Production (30 years), a Street Department employee (30 years), Sandy Brownlee of Utility Billing/Collection (25 years), an Electric Production employee (20 years), a Street Department employee (10 years) and a Fire Department employee (10 years).

County accepts $100,000 grant for workforce training

WELLINGTON, Kan. – Sumner County students will receive new support for their education after the County Commission on Oct. 27, 2025, unanimously accepted a $100,000 workforce training grant. Crystal Hinnen of Ranson Financial Group told commissioners the funding will help students attending Cowley College at Sumner County campuses purchase necessary supplies and is available to both traditional and home-schooled students. The commission authorized Chairman Jim Newell to sign the agreement.

Senior services office move under consideration

WELLINGTON, Kan. – The Sumner County Senior Services Office may soon have a new space within its current building to improve access and efficiency. Health Department Director Kelly Lacey told commissioners at their Oct. 28, 2025, meeting that relocating the office to another area in the building would benefit both Senior Services and the Health Department. The plan would involve interior modifications and the addition of a separate exterior door. The commission will tour the building before making a final decision.

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