Latest news with #Abilene
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Science
- Yahoo
NASA mobile exhibit trailer brings moon rock to Abilene
ABILENE, Texas () – It's not common to associate Abilene with NASA, but that changed on July 18 at the Morgan Jones Planetarium. The NASA Mobile Exhibit Trailer made a stop in Key City, bringing a piece of space history with it. The traveling exhibit showcases a moon rock that visitors can touch. The rock is at least 3.75 billion years old and was retrieved from the Sea of Serenity on December 11, 1972, during the Apollo 17 mission. Visitors could touch the moon rocks, participate in space education, and explore other NASA space exhibits. Steven Smith, a Communication Strategist contracted by NASA, discussed the moon rock. 'I will go ahead and say, look, it doesn't look like you think it's going to look. It's very smooth and flat. And this is one of the few opportunities that people will ever get to touch a moon rock,' Smith said. Abilene Independent School District students who took part were doing more than just a day of learning. This trip to the planetarium offers high school juniors the opportunity to participate in the Texas High School Aerospace Scholars Program, where they can work directly with NASA throughout the school year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Abilene City Commission candidates explain what they could bring to the table
Note: It's no secret that the Abilene City Commission has had more than it's share of controversies and conflicts over the last few years. The situation escalated in the past 18-plus months with Incumbent Commissioner John Kollhoff repeatedly calling for the resignation of former City Manager Ron Marsh. In response, Marsh resigned in May 2025 and left the city at the end of June. Seeing a need for change, a number of Abilene residents threw their hats into the ring, vying for one of three open positons. They are: Alan M. Baier, Alyssa Boss, Connie Covington, John Kollhoff (incumbent), Bruce L. Johnson, Debbie Lytle, Ray Miller, Wendy Miller (incumbent), Rebecca Perkins and Cy Taylor. The 10 candidates seeking a position on the Abilene City Commission answered 10 questions from the Abilene Reflector-Chronicle asking their thoughts regarding key issues which have affected the City of Abilene in recent months and years. Following are their answers. Alan Baier Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? Abilene has held a special place in my heart since childhood. Growing up on its streets, I developed a deep respect for the values, history and character that make our community unique. I believe in preserving the strengths of our town while embracing the opportunity to grow and improve. It is my responsibility and privilege to help shape the future of Abilene through thoughtful leadership and meaningful choices. What experience do you bring to the role? I bring both passion and a clear vision for what our town can achieve with the right leadership and direction. My experience includes managing budgets and collaborating with a variety of leaders across different roles. I'm committed to ensuring that our leadership teams are equipped with the tools and support they need to successfully reach their goals and serve our community effectively. With the departure of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? I believe the right decision will take thoughtful consideration and time. It's essential to find someone with a vision for prosperity that aligns with our current budget and strategic priorities. The ideal candidate will possess the temperament to navigate the delicate balance between maintaining existing infrastructure and pursuing thoughtful growth. Transparency in intentions, along with the ability to collaborate effectively with staff and elected officials, will be the cornerstone to their success. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? All ongoing projects that contribute to the prosperity of our community are close to my heart and deserve a place at the table for thoughtful discussion. Supporting and maintaining our current infrastructure is in the town's best interest, as these foundational structures are the pillars upon which our community is built. It is our responsibility to ensure tax dollars are used wisely and efficiently, laying a path toward sustainable success that extends well beyond any single term of service. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I believe the most important aspect of this issue is transparency. When maintained at the appropriate levels, fluoride is both safe and beneficial to public health. However, its effectiveness and safety rely on consistent monitoring and open communication regarding reported levels, as there is a genuine risk of overexposure if not properly managed. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? Budgets should reflect the core values of the community, safety, infrastructure and economic opportunity. While also being aware of the burden that is placed on the taxpayers. It goes without saying that budgets need to be evaluated, seeking efficiencies and inefficiencies. Ensuring every dollar is directed toward initiatives that provide long-term value. Budgeting isn't always about numbers; it's about the trust and accountability our community has in its leaders. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? The concerns about these issues are understandable and deserve serious attention. Taxes are important to any size of community. They help build things, create opportunities, and maintain critical services. While the concern about taxes is valid, they must be balanced with the financial realities our residents face. Our leadership should continually evaluate whether our structures are fair, sustainable and aligned with the community's goals. My goal is to maintain quality services without placing unnecessary strain on homeowners and working families. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? Section B outlines the general responsibilities and expectations. It does not provide clear guidance on professionalism and respectful engagement during official proceedings. Clarifying expectations reinforces accountability and models the kind of cooperation we hope to see inside our community as a whole. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? This issue requires a thoughtful approach. First, I would want to evaluate historical water level data to better understand the patterns and cyclical nature of our local water resources. Gaining perspective is essential to making informed decisions. That said, I feel like educating the public on resource-saving practices is always important. There are several methods to replenish aquifers, but it is a highly specialized field. Not having a background in it leaves me to trust experts in the field while doing independent research. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? I'm interested in learning more about what issues our community faces than my own perspective. It's easy to get lost in your own ambitions and forget who you really work for. True leadership begins with a commitment to putting the needs of the people first. Alyssa Boss Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I love Abilene. I am not from here originally but I chose to move here over 15 years ago. I also choose to stay because it is a wonderful community. I want to ensure it stays a wonderful community and what better way to do that than to get involved in the local government. What experience do you bring to the role? I have worked for the county for over 15 years. The last six have been in IT, the first nine were as an emergency communications officer. I have also been a member of several non-profit groups over my lifetime, and know the value of working hard to do more with less. With the departure of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? I would like to see someone with experience in multiple departments. I think when you are working with a community of our size, people need to be skilled in many things in order to make the greatest impact. I want to see someone who understands how parks and recreation, public works, emergency services, and economic development work together to keep a city going. Someone with a wealth of experience. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? I am excited to see projects that help our city grow. I am, however, concerned about the way some of these projects came to be. I know that the ball fields are important, but I also know that for years the city saved money by skipping scheduled maintenance on them. This is why they are now in such a state of disrepair. The money that was saved ended up costing us more in the long run, and I do not want to see that continue. Yes, money is tight, but regular maintenance needs to be done to keep things in working order. I was also disappointed to see the tax question come up during a special election after it failed the general for one major reason. Special elections are very expensive to put on, and I'm of the spirit of being fiscally responsible. I believe that taking the time to better campaign for the sports complex until the next general election would have been a wiser use of citizens tax dollars. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I believe fluoride is a very controversial issue. There are pros and cons that have to be weighed like anything else. I also believe because it affects all of our citizens it should be an issue that is presented to the community on a general election ballot. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? Times are tough for everyone. The prices of everything keeps going up, and the city is not immune to that. There is always waste that can be cut. I would like to see an evaluation of current processes to see if we can streamline them to help cut back on that waste. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? Unfortunately one of the downfalls to the rising cost of housing in Abilene is an increase in property taxes. While it's great for sellers, it definitely hurts when that tax bill comes in. However, in order to maintain infrastructure, taxes must be collected. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? I believe that elected officials need to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner when acting in an official capacity. You are the elected embodiment of your community, therefore you need to act in a manner that reflects what an amazing community we have when you are representing the city. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? Water is our most vital resource. Without it nothing grows. Replenishing our aquifers is a very high priority. While a green lawn can look nice, there are things more important than aesthetics, ensuring our aquifers are available for our future is one of them. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? I have concerns about some of our aging infrastructure. The sewer and water drainage systems in some areas of town are deteriorating or inadequate to handle the usage they experience. A lot of our side roads are also in a deteriorating condition, which is also concerning. I know these are very expensive projects, but we need to be accounting for them. Our population is aging, and it will be impossible to attract young people to this great city if our infrastructure is failing with no plan. Connie Covington Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I have lived in Abilene for the past six years. During that time, I have seen three restaurants closed. I believe we're spiraling in the wrong direction and I would like to see more businesses bring in more revenue so we rely less on raising taxes. What experience do you bring to the role? We moved from southern California where we have seen what over taxation and excessive regulations do to businesses and homeowners. Having had a business, I have had experience with some of the problems of permits and licenses. I believe by helping with the necessary process of permits and licenses and cutting through a lot of unnecessary red tape the city will be more business friendly. As a city, we need to grow in businesses. Our industrial park will serve well for new businesses. With the departure of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? We need someone who knows how to work within and make a budget and find ways to manage the financial resources without raising taxes, prioritize the needs of the city, as well as work with all the different departments and manage the city staff. Someone who can implement and manage policies within the city services if a crisis should arise to protect the city's welfare. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? I am most excited about the industrial park project. With access to I-70, it will be a good incentive. Having lots ready that can accommodate warehouses and manufacturing companies would also be helpful. A VO TECH school would be very beneficial to enhance skills that would accommodate the manufacturing companies that come. It would also help those who live in and around Abilene who choose not to go to a four year college by providing opportunities to prepare for a job. The multi-purpose sports fields will bring in lots of people for tournaments, so we need to be prepared to accommodate their need for food and lodging. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I am against putting fluoride in water. A group of non-profit organizations is now fighting the EPA on adding fluoride to water, citing evidence of little benefit and massive risks. Ingesting fluoride has been linked to a variety of health concerns. Research shows that swallowing fluoride does not improve our teeth or prevent tooth decay. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste while applying it directly to the tooth's enamel may help prevent cavities, whereas swallowing it has no health benefits. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? I have looked at the budget for the past three years. Yes, I am concerned that the property tax rate has exceeded the state's revenue neutral rate of inflation. That is only one instance of looking at the budget that causes me concerns and questions. I believe that the precautionary resolution for 2025 that passed to exceed the revenue is an indication and intention to collect more property taxes than the RNR would allow. I believe that there are ways that we could lower the budget and alleviate the need of raising taxes. Yes, I am concerned about relying too heavily on property taxes. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? As I stated earlier, I believe we are charging way too much in property tax. I believe we need to spend more time discussing and coming up with ways of lowering the budget and still address the needs of the city. There is no magic wand, so we need to prioritize our spending and see how we can work to bring in new revenue. I believe we can be both tax friendly and business friendly to attract businesses and new homeowners to get the added revenue the city needs. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? I believe when the city commissioner is sworn in, he or she swears an oath to uphold the constitution of the United States and the constitution of the State of Kansas; to be committed to the foundational legal documents, governing both federal and state governments and diligently perform the responsibilities associated with the position of a city commissioner. I believe those responsibilities include working with one another, listening to each other's concerns and working together for the good of the city and those who live here and pay taxes. I don't believe you can legislate a person's private affairs outside of his capacity as an elected official. I believe that those in public office should have high morals and conduct business in a decent orderly manner. If more discussion is needed before making a decision, it should be tabled to the next working session so that everyone has a chance to look at everything before making a ruling or casting a vote. I believe that would alleviate complications that could arise. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? We need to conserve our water level as much as possible if it becomes dangerously low. Before we would need to use other resources more public awareness would be needed to conserve water. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? Not at this time. John Kollhoff Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? My desire to remain on the Abilene City Commission remains the same as it was when first elected to the position, and also why I chose to make Abilene my home and raise my family here. This is a special place. Our children are safe here. The schools we have are an outlier when compared to other rural Kansas communities. There are economic opportunities possible in Abilene that cities twice our size don't enjoy. We have merely scratched the surface on what we are able to accomplish in the city that raised president Eisenhower. I want our community to realize its vast untapped potential and I believe that I can help accomplish it by continuing to serve. What experience do you bring to the role? After serving as a commissioner for four years, I've honed my ability to make tough, fiscally responsible decisions, and when necessary, say 'no' to wasteful spending projects. This commitment ensures our city's resources are used wisely. Professionally, I'm a doctor of pharmacy, and worked as a pharmacist until recently when I turned my focus to real estate. As a landowner, real estate broker and developer, I've gained unique insights into the perspectives of our citizens, potential new businesses and entrepreneurs. The city and the commission must work to ensure that Abilene remains a great place to do business, and my diverse professional background uniquely qualifies me to understand and address the needs of many in our community. With the departure of of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? I don't think it is any great secret that I did not agree with the direction that Mr. Marsh was taking our community. I believe that he is a good man, but lacked the tools necessary to lead our town and leverage the unique opportunities Abilene presents. I am committed to ensuring the next city manager is an honest professional who can leverage our assets, both tangible and intangible, into continued success and prosperity for our businesses and citizens. The elected commissioners should act as the board of directors to hold the city manager accountable to efficiently accomplish the goals and visions set forth by our citizens, informing them and being responsive to their inquiries throughout the process. That accountability and competency should flow from the city manager down through the city staff at every level so that all are on the same page to accomplish our lofty, but attainable, goals. Our tax dollars should pay for an individual with a CEO mindset, ever mindful of the expenditures of our tax dollars while being evaluated on accomplishing the goals of the citizens. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? Abilene presently finds itself in the position of needing to accelerate its economic development activities. The current projects including the sports fields and industrial park offer hope in the form of action. The industrial park improvements, if properly executed within budget and fully utilized, will increase the tax base. The projects can potentially work in tandem to improve the happiness of our citizens while not stressing our wallets. We also must be mindful of our resources when managing these projects, specifically the finite land resources located near the sports fields and also the industrial park vacant land being used in the most efficient manner to maximize revenue. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? While my opinion might be interesting, the overwhelming scientific evidence shows that adding a very small amount of fluoride to the public water supply (approx 0.7 parts per millions) dramatically reduces cavities in children and adults, and is frequently cited as the most cost effective public health measure that we can control at the city level. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in varying amounts in water, soil, and some foods. Water fluoridation simply adjusts the level to an optimal amount for dental health, similar to fortifying other foods with vitamins and minerals. If someone wants to avoid fluoride, a reverse osmosis filter is fairly inexpensive and quite effective. If someone wants to avoid cavities, city water enhanced with a scientifically proven level of Fluoride will help protect your teeth from decay, and protect your wallet from the dentist. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? Most humans have nearly unlimited wants and painfully limited means. City governments are no different in this respect. It is normal to want nice things, and I believe the historic crafting of the City budget has reflected this. Unfortunately, the past budgets have created expenses that will continue to grow and compound into the future. I am committed to crafting a budget that is thoughtful and efficient, and I'm hopeful that some of my fellow commissioners will vote accordingly. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? Abilene homeowners pay a lot in property taxes. In fact, if your home in Abilene is worth the same as a home in Johnson County, you're paying about 20% more in taxes here than in the Kansas City metro. We need to fix this so Abilene homeowners aren't carrying such a heavy load. My plan has two parts: – Bring in more businesses. We need to make it attractive for companies and factories to move to Abilene. When businesses come here, they pay taxes too, which helps share the load and takes some pressure off homeowners, while creating demand for housing by creating jobs, which also spreads the costs of running a city over more households. – Spend wisely. We also need to be smart about how the city spends money. By cutting unnecessary costs, we can help lower the amount we need from property taxes. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? I'll stand by my record of holding the city manager accountable for his actions throughout my term on the commission. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? Access to water is essential for Abilene to continue to thrive. I think it is important for the state of Kansas to address water usage throughout the state to ensure adequate water supply for communities like ours. Locally, we can encourage responsible water use with common sense conservation measures. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? 1. Economic development 2. Development of the economy 3. Attracting new development to bolster the economy 4. Increasing the economy through growth and development 5. Additional quality of life improvements throughout the community Bruce Johnson Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? Abilene is a great example of a small Kansas town with a unique history. There are only a few towns that have had a United States president. Abilene also has the distinction of having an excursion train with a steam locomotive. Our history is rich, and our future is bright. We have the opportunity to bring businesses which can take Abilene to the next level as a city that is safe and prosperous, while maintaining that small town appeal. I will work to achieve this goal. What experience do you bring to the role? I grew up on a farm close to Lindsborg, Kansas, and attended McPherson College before going to Dental School in Kansas City where my wife and I met Dr. Doug and Cindy Sheern. I practiced dentistry in McPherson and Salina for 40 years. After retiring, we renewed our friendship and decided to move to Abilene where we met many new friends including Scott and Lynette Hill. Our friendship with them has given me a close-up view of the political process and to the ins and outs of government. With the departure of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? A new city manager may be hired before the new city commissioners take office. However, if elected, I would look for a city manager with a minimum of five years of experience in city government in cities with populations less than 50,000. It would be great if they grew up in a rural area, preferably in the Midwest. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? There's already been a lot of work done by the people of Abilene to bring both of these projects as well as the CCLIP (City Connecting Link Improvement Program) project (which is in process) to a point of funding. In some sense there's a principle of 'which came first the chicken or the egg' to be considered. I believe that we need to grow the tax base first which includes bringing new business to the industrial park. New business brings new revenue which provides opportunities for other priorities. I fully support the multi-purpose sports fields since the special tax has been approved. If there's a way to channel some of the bond money to building the infrastructure for the industrial park I would support that effort. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? As a retired dentist, I will state that the children I saw as patients from areas where there was no fluoride in the water supply had significantly higher levels of tooth decay. The difference was 'night and day' in my experience. This is a 'hot button issue' for many people. The American Dental Association maintains the position that one part per million of fluoride in the water reduces tooth decay by 25%. It's a personal choice so some may prefer to buy bottled water or filter their water if they have concerns about fluoride in the water supply. I ask myself this question: why would any industry support the very product that will reduce their profit unless they want the best for their patients? There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? How the budget is crafted is a process. I believe the process is not in question. The size of the budget is the concern. If there are efficiencies that can be put in place after careful consideration, we should take advantage of all of those, and I would work with the city manager and city commission to determine the best choices. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? Property values are determined by the assessors, and the values never seem to go down. We all appreciate a clean, safe town with good amenities, but I believe we have to live within our means nationally, statewide, locally and personally. As I've compared Abilene to other comparable cities in the area, we've maxed out our tax structure. That's why I will work to bring new business to the industrial park. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? I believe that we are servants of each other, and as such, need to conduct ourselves to the highest standard of conduct since each person has high value. I will respect and work with each person on the city commission because it's the right thing to do. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? We need historical data from the Kansas Water Board to evaluate the water level as well as the flow rate usage over time. The aquifer recharge rate should also be compared to the annual precipitation. I will commit to working with the city manager as well as the city and county commissions to determine the best course of action. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? Since the bowling alley is permanently closed, it would be a good idea to remove the sign for people who have anxiety about central Kansas being in 'tornado alley.' Deborah Lytle Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I was raised in Abilene and have lived here most of my life. My husband and I raised our three children here and three of my six grandchildren are growing up here. Abilene is a great community and a great place to raise a family. I love Abilene and want to give back to the community. I would love to see our community grow and be able to provide more opportunities for new families to call Abilene home. What experience do you bring to the role? I have worked in the public sector most of my life. I know the importance of listening to people's concerns and doing what I can to help. I have given back to my community by volunteering for ACS Relay for Life and the UBA5 foundation. I want to continue to give back to my community. While I do not have any experience on the city commission, I will never promise to know everything that there is to know. I promise I will do my research on the topics and make the best-informed decisions that I can. With the departure of of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? I think we need a city manager that can build short and long-term visions for the future of the city of Abilene. City manager Marsh led a lot of infrastructure improvements and housing projects during his four years in Abilene, we need a city manager who will continue to support the projects that are currently underway and bring new ideas for continued and future growth and success of Abilene The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? I am excited about both of these projects. The industrial park project is important to help Abilene build its tax base and provide jobs for citizens long-term. We need to grow our tax base to grow our community. The multi-purpose sports fields are very important. Our facilities are outdated and falling apart, which is an embarrassment to Abilene. We need a facility we can be proud of when visitors come from out of town to visit. Our Parks and Recreation Department does a great job maintaining what we have, but we desperately need new facilities. You can only put patches on it for so long. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I think fluoride is important to maintain the oral health of our citizens, especially our children. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? Like any taxpayer, I don't like seeing taxes raised, but I also understand that costs are increasing due to inflation across the board including government entities. The city commission has done a great job of remaining revenue neutral (levying the same or fewer dollars than the year before) these past few years. The city commission has also captured a lot of grant dollars from state and federal programs to help fund projects that flow through the city's budget while not necessarily being property tax dollars. The city of Abilene cannot continue to provide the same level of services and make necessary repairs/upgrades to its infrastructure without tax dollars. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? I believe city staff puts a lot of work into creating a budget that does not raise property taxes. Not only has the mill levy for the city not increased, but as previously stated, the city has remained revenue neutral the past few years. Property taxes have increased because property values have increased and other taxing entities have not lowered their mill levy enough to levy the same number of dollars as the year before. Remember, the city of Abilene is not the only taxing entity; Dickinson County, USD 435, the Abilene Cemetery District, the Chisholm Trail Extension District, and Memorial Hospital also contribute to the total mill levy which has a direct effect on your property tax bill. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? Yes, I would be in full support of that addition. Some of the antics at our city commission meetings over the last few years are very unprofessional and unbecoming. A commissioner should act and speak with respect and integrity to all fellow commissioners, city staff, citizens, and anyone they communicate with. Bullying and tantrums should have no place at our city commission meetings and sheds a very bad light on the city of Abilene publicly. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? Water is very essential. We need to do whatever is necessary to make sure the city has water available to provide now and in the future. If water watches are necessary to make people conserve water, then I would support them. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? I believe Abilene needs fun and interactive activities for children and teenagers. When I grew up, we had a skating rink, bowling alley, movie theater and an arcade. Today, kids do not have as many activities to occupy their time. We need these activities and places to not only keep our kids safe and out of trouble but also to attract families with children to Abilene. Ray Miller Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I care about this community and want to help it grow in the right way. I believe in being open, honest, and making sure local decisions work for everyday people. What experience do you bring to the role? I come from a background where hard work, teamwork, and showing up every day matter. I've worked hands-on in settings where budgets are tight, time is short, and getting the job done right the first time counts. I understand what it means to work for a living and take pride in being reliable, level-headed, and ready to roll up my sleeves to tackle issues that affect everyday folks in our community. With the departure of of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? We need someone who will build on the strong foundation Ron Marsh laid. Ron led with steady hands and clear communication, and it's important that our next city manager continues that momentum. We're looking for someone who understands how our city works, listens to the community, and keeps things moving in the right direction — responsibly and transparently. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? I'm excited about the 14th Street Industrial Park and the new sports fields. These projects bring jobs and places for families to enjoy. I think it's important to make sure every project is useful, affordable and has strong public support. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I think it's important to listen to both science and what the community wants. I'm open to reviewing the facts and hearing from residents before making a decision. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? The city has done a good job keeping things running, but we can always do better. I think the budget should be easier for people to understand, and we should make sure we're spending money where it matters most. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? I know people are feeling the pressure of rising costs. We need to look at where we can save, make smart choices, and keep taxes reasonable while still providing good services. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? Yes. Setting clear rules for how commissioners behave during meetings helps build trust and keeps things respectful. It's important that city leaders set a good example. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? It's a big priority. Water is something we all depend on, and we need to protect and plan for it now so we don't face bigger problems later. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? Yes. I'm focused on making sure Abilene stays a great place to live. That means working on things like more affordable housing, new jobs, better roads and easier ways to get around town. I also want to help the city do a better job of keeping people informed and involved in decisions. Wendy Miller Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I'm running for reelection because I believe in responsive, transparent leadership that reflects the values of our residents. Abilene deserves commissioners who listen, ask thoughtful questions and advocate for responsible growth. I want to continue building trust, improving accessibility and ensuring every resident feels heard and represented. What experience do you bring to the role? I bring years of experience in federal employment systems, specializing in workers' compensation, regulatory compliance and accessibility. My work requires precision, empathy and clear communication — skills I've applied to city governance by helping residents navigate complex issues and making public processes easier to understand. With the departure of of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? Ron Marsh served Abilene with dedication, helping guide the city through key initiatives and improvements. His leadership reflected a strong commitment to community values and progress. As we move forward, I believe the next city manager should build on that foundation — leading with transparency, collaboration and a clear focus on what matters most to our residents. We need someone who continues that momentum and strengthens public trust. Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any you hesitate to support or think need altering? I'm excited about the 14th Street Industrial Park and the multi-purpose sports fields. Both have the potential to boost our economy and serve families. That said, I will continue to scrutinize the fiscal impact of all projects, especially those that might place a burden on residents without delivering clear, long-term benefits. Responsible spending should reflect what our community values most. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I initially supported removing fluoride to promote health freedom and limit government intervention, but after further research and consultation with experts, I reconsidered. Dental caries is the most common chronic disease in children, and fluoridated water plays a vital role in prevention. I now fully support keeping fluoride in our water and encourage residents to vote in favor of its continuation for the health of future generations. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? I'm proud of the city's budget progress. From 2022 to 2024, we held the mill levy steady and then reduced it — delivering real savings to residents. For example, a typical $150,000 home saw property taxes drop by over $48 in 2024. I remain committed to responsible budgeting that invests in Abilene without overburdening taxpayers. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? I support reviewing our tax structure regularly to ensure fairness and economic resilience. As costs rise, we must balance the need for revenue with the realities our residents face. Our policies should evolve to support families and promote long-term stability. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? Yes. While the current code sets strong ethical standards, adding a section on commissioner conduct during meetings would reinforce professionalism and help build public trust. Respectful dialogue is essential to good governance. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? It's a top priority. According to the City of Abilene's hydrogeology report, the Sand Springs Aquifer and the Smoky Hill River Alluvium remain at unhealthy levels despite recent rainfall. The city is only able to operate three of its eleven wells consistently due to dangerously low water tables, threatening long-term water access and system stability. We've remained under a water watch since July 2024. That's why I support strong conservation efforts, infrastructure upgrades, and regional partnerships to restore and protect these aquifers. Water security is vital to our health, economy, and future. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? Yes. Developing multi-use sidewalks and bike paths that create safe routes to schools is one of my top priorities. These pathways promote safety, accessibility and community connection. I'm also focused on improving ADA (American Disabilities Act) compliance and making city communications easier to understand so everyone can participate fully in local government. Rebecca Perkins Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I am proud and fortunate to live in Abilene, and to be a fifth generation Dickinson County resident. I want to ensure that future generations can have the same profound experience that I had growing up in Abilene, and contribute to make my city strong and sustainable. What experience do you bring to the role? As a former school board member and public policy consultant, I will bring my experience as an elected official and my knowledge of policy to help create planned growth in Abilene. As a school board president, I helped craft a $13 million budget for my school district, so I understand how to live within financial limits. I have worked in state and municipal economic development roles and understand the importance of strategic planned development. With the departure of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? Strong strategic planning and communication skills are essential in a city manager. Our city manager should have a shared vision with city commissioners and work effectively with all to make that vision a reality. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? All projects, especially the ones requiring voter approval, should be part of a strategic plan that is understood by Abilene residents. We should be aware of all available grant funds and take advantage of those opportunities. We should also be working closely with Kansas Department of Transportation, since we are on a state highway and just off a major interstate. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? I support the continued fluoridation of Abilene's water supply. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? Abilene's budget depends on residential property taxes and sales taxes because we lack commercial ratables. Until we attract businesses, residents will continue to bear the financial burden of city government. A good portion of Abilene's budget goes to salaries and benefits for city employees, which goes up every year. The city commission needs to understand that we are all doing more with fewer resources, and the city should not be an exception to that rule. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? I'm very concerned about Abilene's reliance on local sales taxes. These taxes are regressive, meaning they hit those with lower incomes the hardest. If you're shopping in Abilene, you're shopping for groceries and basic necessities, and the local taxes keep going up. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? I would recommend adding a section to the city code on rules and order of business, specifying that in the lack of other directives, the meetings would follow Robert's Rules of Order. This gives the mayor, or whomever is running the meeting, the power to conduct an orderly meeting, which requires commissioners to act with civility and respect for the body. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? Every Kansan should be concerned about our state's water supply. We need to work closely with county and state government to ensure that we are using our resources wisely and protect them for the future. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? We must find a way to deal with trains that stop traffic on our main streets for over an hour, several times a day. It's annoying, but more importantly, it's dangerous and potentially life-threatening for emergency vehicles. We must work with county and state officials to change this. We must also work to improve our quality of life in Abilene. Tourism is an essential part of our economy and we must maximize our resources, but our community should be a great place to live, not just to visit. We should offer quality education, healthcare, recreational opportunities and opportunities to support and enjoy the arts. The city commission can't do all that, but it should work closely with our school board and our county and state officials to reach those goals. Cy Taylor Why do you want to serve on the Abilene City Commission? I am running for Abilene City Commission because I want to serve our community. Abilene deserves leaders who care deeply about preserving our community's values while ensuring we remain a great place to live, work and raise families. What experience do you bring to the role? As a project manager for a utility company, I have hands-on experience overseeing large-scale utility projects across Kansas. My work includes managing complex budgets, coordinating with contractors and collaborating with city managers and utility directors across the state. This has given me an understanding of municipal operations, infrastructure planning, fiscal responsibility and the importance of clear communication between city leadership and the community. I bring a results-oriented mindset, practical problem-solving skills and a strong commitment to an efficient and transparent government that will serve Abilene well. With the departure of Ron Marsh as city manager, what would you look for in the next city manager? We need someone who values transparency, respects the limits of government and understands that city government exists to serve residents. I would seek a manager who can find efficiencies in our operations, reduce red tape and support a more lean budget while still delivering essential services. They must also be a strong communicator and leader who can help Abilene's city staff deliver our core services effectively. The city has several large projects in the works (the 14th Street Industrial Park project and the multi-purpose sports fields). Which projects are you the most excited to see happen? Are there any projects you hesitate to support or think need altering? I'm excited about economic development that helps bring jobs and business to Abilene. I support projects like the industrial park if they show clear, long-term value to taxpayers without requiring ongoing subsidies. I'm also excited to help see the multi-purpose sports fields come to fruition as long as we remain mindful of cost and long-term maintenance. What is your opinion of fluoride in the city's water supply? Government-mandated medication, even with good intentions, should always be carefully scrutinized. I believe in informed consent and personal choice. If a significant number of citizens are concerned about fluoride, the issue deserves a transparent review, updated scientific input and possibly a public vote. The city shouldn't dismiss those concerns. There's been public concerns over the last few years about the size of the city's budget and rising taxes. What is your opinion of how the city has crafted their budget in recent years? The cost of living has gone up for everyone, including local governments. The rising price of goods, services and labor impacts the city budget just like it does for families and businesses. That means we need to focus on core services, cut unnecessary spending and ensure every dollar is spent with purpose and accountability. There's also been public discourse about Abilene's taxes with rising property taxes and cost of living. What is your opinion of the local taxes Abilene collects? Abilene families are being squeezed by rising property taxes and inflation. We must hold the line on tax increases and look for ways to ease the burden. The city should explore tax relief, more efficient services and a stronger reliance on private-sector growth — not public spending — to boost our local economy. Should a section be added to the city's code of ethics (1-309 b) specifying commissioner conduct during meetings? While I fully support professionalism and decorum, I am cautious about vague or overly restrictive language. Commissioners should lead by example without adding unnecessary layers of regulation. Let voters hold officials accountable. The city has been under a water watch due to the low water levels of the aquifers the city pulls from. How large of a priority is replenishing the aquifers to you? Water is essential and must be managed wisely. Replenishing and conserving our aquifers should be a high priority. We should encourage conservation and continue to educate Abilene residents to conserve voluntarily in order to avoid stricter restrictions in the future. Recent rainfall has helped, but we need to continue conservation efforts to maintain long-term water security. Are there any other issues or projects at the top of your list of concerns? Yes. Transparency and citizen input. I support more public engagement, publishing budget details in plain language and ensuring government actions reflect the will of the people. I also want to protect our small-town values by limiting unnecessary regulations and promoting a strong local economy based on freedom and entrepreneurship. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Voter registration closes July 15; Early/advance voting starts Wednesday
The clock is ticking away, moving ever closer to the Aug. 5 Primary Election that will narrow the field of candidates who will vie for three open positions on the Abilene City Commission. Ten Abilene residents filed for the city commission race. The primary will eliminate four of the candidates, allowing the top six vote-getters to move on to the Nov. 4 General Election. With 10 candidates, the Abilene commission race is the only one in Dickinson County that requires a primary election. Today Tuesday, July 15, is the last day to register to vote or update voter registration information. Registration can be done in person at the Dickinson County Clerk/Election Office or online through the Kansas Secretary of State's website. This deadline applies to registering online, by mail, or in person. You can register online through the Kansas Secretary of State's website. You can also register by mail, with the application needing to be postmarked on or before the deadline. Registration can also be done in person at your county election office. Early/Advance voting starts on Wednesday, July 16 in the Dickinson County Clerk/Election office at the courthouse, 109 E. First, Abilene.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
UPDATE: Animal control investigating after dog found dead in Abilene backyard
ABILENE, Texas () – Animal control is now investigating after a dog was found dead in an Abilene backyard. A social media post from a concerned citizen started to gain traction Sunday, showing a deceased dog that community members believed was decapitated lying in the backyard of a home on the 1200 block of Marshall Street. The post also showed several other dogs on the property that were still alive. Abilene police confirmed animal control officers were at the home Monday. They said officers are working with the homeowner and trying to get voluntary custody of the remaining animals. KTAB and KRBC spoke to the homeowner, who said that the dead dog passed away while they were out of town and claimed they buried him the same day. This homeowner also said he feeds the remaining dogs and is asking the public to stop bringing him food. Police have yet to comment on whether or not criminal charges are being pursued against the homeowner or anyone else involved. However, the homeowner says he will not be facing charges. No further information is available at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tenant challenges Lancium AI facility property value
ABILENE, Texas () – A tenant at the Lancium AI facility, also known as Stargate, being built in far northern Abilene, is protesting the property value of the site. Abilene City Council weighs large tax abatement for Lancium Taylor County Commissioners listened to the details during Taylor County Budget hearings that began this week. Taylor County estimated to see $18 million/year windfall from Lancium AI project According to the county auditor's office, the initial new property value came in at $930 million, significantly more than in a normal year. $560 million of that was based on the Lancium property, which translates into approximately $1.9 million in revenue for the county. Abilene's Lancium project: Progress & solutions for community concerns These are preliminary numbers until the Taylor County Central Appraisal District certifies values by the 25th of this month. When the values do come in, the Lancium property will be taxed at 100% until the property is fully operational. After that, Lancium has received an 80% tax abatement from the City of Abilene. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
