Reno County Commission Advances Development Plans While Hearing Public Concerns

Reno County Commissioners Richard Winger, left, Don Bogner, Ron Hirst, Randy Parks and Ron Vincent.

The Reno County Commission tackled economic development, public safety recognitions, and community concerns during its April 22 meeting, balancing growth initiatives with ongoing questions from residents about taxes, infrastructure, and future projects.

Meeting in the Veterans Room at the courthouse, commissioners opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer by Pastor Charles Crumble from New Ressurection Church before Commission Chair Ron Hirst addressed one of the most common topics raised by residents - property taxes.

Hirst outlined how local property taxes are distributed, emphasizing that Reno County retains only a portion of what taxpayers pay. For a typical property in Hutchinson, he said:

• 44.42% goes to USD 308
• 25.45% goes to Hutchinson Community College
• 25.45% goes to the City of Hutchinson
• 22.84% goes to Reno County operations 

“That’s why we say we are primarily a pass-through,” Hirst said, noting the county distributes most of the funds it collects. 

He added that compared to other Kansas counties, Reno County’s share for its own operations ranks lower than most.

April 19–25 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week.




May 10–16 as National Police Week, with Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.



Captain Steve Lutz invited residents to attend the annual memorial ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, outside the Hutchinson Law Enforcement Center.

Proclamations highlight victims and law enforcement

Commissioners issued two proclamations recognizing public safety and community support.

The board declared April 19–25 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week, with District Attorney Tom Stanton emphasizing that victim services continue to expand in both scope and complexity. His office now works with victims of financial exploitation, violent crime, and drug-related deaths—particularly cases involving fentanyl—each requiring different types of support.

“There’s not a one-size-fits-all solution… every single one has a different need,” said Stanton.

Stanton said meaningful support often means listening and helping connect victims with resources such as counseling, childcare, or basic assistance, rather than trying to resolve their situation directly. He invited the public to attend a Community Candle Lighting Ceremony as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week scheduled for Thursday evening, April 23rd at 6:30 pm at the South Hutchinson Community Center, 101 W. Avenue C.

The commission also proclaimed May 10–16 as National Police Week, with Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.

Reno County Sheriff's Office Captain Steve Lutz invited residents to attend the annual observance of National Peace Officers Memorial Day at 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, outside the Hutchinson Law Enforcement Center. The event honors officers who have died in the line of duty and recognizes the ongoing service of law enforcement personnel. Lutz also shared that local agencies are working toward establishing a permanent law enforcement memorial on courthouse grounds.

Routine business moves quickly

Commissioners approved the consent agenda without discussion, covering contracts, purchases, policy updates, and EMS construction changes.

Vikki Mader, CEO Horizons Mental Health Center


Commissioners listen to Mader's presentation.


William "Bill" Kunze talks to commissioners about Takako's expansion, with Greater Hutch's Lauren Storm, right.Commissioners listen to Bob Johnson, an attorney for Salt Lick LLC, who attended remotely.

Development decisions drive discussion

The meeting’s most detailed and extended discussion centered on economic development, particularly how to balance incentives, long-term growth, and taxpayer expectations.

A quarterly report from Horizons Mental Health Center highlighted increasing demand across Reno County, with approximately 600 additional individuals served over the past year. CEO Vikki Mader said the organization continues to expand services to meet that need, including adding a veterans navigator to help veterans access both local and federal care, and launching “Battle Buddies,” a drop-in peer support group.

Horizons has also expanded Mental Health First Aid training in local schools, reaching hundreds of students and equipping them to recognize and respond to mental health concerns among peers.

The conversation then shifted to economic development.

Commissioners approved a job performance letter of intent for Takako America Co., a long-standing Hutchinson manufacturer that has operated locally since 1990. Takako Executive Vice President William "Bill" Kunze said new global demand and recent equipment investments are driving expansion, with plans to hire at least 10 new employees, possibly up to 20.

Kunze also outlined employee benefits, including regular wage increases, retirement matching, and paid time off, positioning the expansion as both a workforce and economic development opportunity.

The board then turned to the Salt Lick development, a proposed golf and hunting resort that prompted the most in-depth discussion of the morning.

Commissioners approved a resolution of intent to issue industrial revenue bonds (IRBs), allowing the developer to begin purchasing construction materials without paying sales tax. County staff and legal representatives clarified several key points:

• The bonds are a financing mechanism, not direct county funding
• The developer assumes all financial responsibility
• The county is not liable if the project fails
• The primary benefit at this stage is sales tax exemption on construction materials

“This is really the first step,” Teufel said, noting that future steps will include a full cost-benefit analysis and additional public decisions. 

Commissioners discussed the trade-offs of incentives, including delayed property tax revenue. Some expressed concern about long-term returns, while others emphasized the broader economic impact of development particularly when starting from undeveloped land that currently generates little tax revenue.

“Doing nothing is also not a good return on investment,” Reno County Administrator Randy Partington said. 

Economic development officials added that future analysis will project job creation, tourism impact, and indirect economic benefits across the county.

Curt FieldDebra TeufelSusie Ratzlaff

Public comment raises concerns about emerging industries

Public comment—moved later in the meeting—focused heavily on potential battery energy storage systems and data centers, topics that have recently drawn increased public attention.

Residents voiced concerns about:

• Fire risks associated with battery storage facilities
• High water usage and energy demand from data centers
• Potential environmental and infrastructure impacts on nearby communities

Field noted that many residents are still learning about these technologies and may not fully understand their impacts, urging the commission to take time to evaluate both risks and benefits.

“I just think it’s very important to look at the environmental side… as well as whatever economic side they might bring,” said Field. 

Ratzlaff encouraged commissioners to consider moratoriums or stricter regulations until more information is available.

Debra Teufel, CEO and President of the Hutchinson / Reno County Chamber of Commerce, responded by distinguishing between different types of projects and emphasizing the importance of informed discussion. They noted that newer data center designs often use closed-loop water systems, reducing water consumption, and that state-level policies already require large energy users to cover their own costs and infrastructure needs.

She also cautioned that moratoriums could have unintended consequences, including discouraging investment or limiting the county’s ability to negotiate project terms.

Commissioners stress facts, process, and transparency

In closing comments, commissioners addressed both the tone of the discussion and the process for making decisions.

Several emphasized the need for credible, verifiable data when evaluating complex projects.

“I need more than that,” Commissioner Ron Vincent said, referring to general information found online and urging residents to provide research from reliable sources such as studies, reports, or documented data. 

Commission Chair Ron Hirst clarified that public comment is designed to receive input, not to engage in immediate back-and-forth discussion. More detailed conversations occur during scheduled agenda items, public hearings, or study sessions where staff can prepare accurate information.

They pointed to the county’s existing planning and zoning process, including public hearings and conditional use permits, as the appropriate path for evaluating future development proposals.

County projects and community updates

Commissioners highlighted ongoing county improvements, including the new EMS station on Fifth Street, which officials described as more functional and better suited for staff needs, including training and rest areas.

An additional EMS Station 3 open house in Arlington is scheduled for Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., offering the public a chance to tour the facility and meet emergency personnel. 

Commissioners also announced a public informational meeting on property appraisals, scheduled for Monday, April 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. at The Highlands clubhouse, where County Appraiser Michael Plank will explain the appraisal process and answer questions. 

Administrator Randy Partington

Administrator outlines busy schedule ahead

County Administrator Randy Partington outlined a full schedule of upcoming meetings and budget sessions:

• No regular BOCC meeting on April 29
• Budget study session on Thursday, May 7 at 4 p.m.
• Regular BOCC meeting on May 13, followed by study sessions starting at 11 a.m.
• Additional study sessions on May 27 at 11 a.m.
• Special meeting for Salt Lick project on Monday, May 18 at 8 a.m.
• June meeting moved from June 10 to Tuesday, June 9 

These study sessions will include partner agencies and department presentations as the county begins building its next budget.