Newton, Kansas Development News
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City Commission meeting - 7-14-26
Published: Jul 14, 2026
City Commission Votes to Notify County of Intent to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate for 2027 Budget
The City Commission has directed city staff to notify the Harvey County Clerk of the city's intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate for the 2027 budget. The revenue neutral rate, which generates the same property tax revenue as the previous year, was calculated at 69.408 mils, a reduction from the current 72.353 mils. By notifying the county clerk of the intent to exceed, the city reserves the right to set the mill levy at the current 72.353 mils while finalizing the budget, allowing for potential adjustments and avoiding a mandatory reduction in revenue.
Rockets and Rails Event Deemed a Major Success, Community Calls for Annual Return
The city is reviewing the success of the inaugural 'Rockets and Rails' event held on July 3rd, 2026. The event, which included the Mexican American softball tournament and a fireworks show, drew an estimated 10,000 attendees. Local vendors reported significant success, with many selling out of food. The event was funded by Convention and Visitors Bureau funds and private sponsorships, and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community. The city is considering making this an annual event.
Resident Appeals for Lower Speed Limits on Residential Streets Due to Safety Concerns
Sean Beach, a resident of 909 Southeast 5th Street, addressed the commission regarding dangerous traffic speeds on residential streets. He highlighted that vehicles use these streets to bypass bottlenecks like Kansas Avenue and First Street, often driving at 30-40 mph, endangering children and pedestrians. Beach requested immediate action, including 20 mph speed limit signs, 'children at play' signs, and increased law enforcement presence. He noted that many surrounding communities have adopted 20 mph limits on similar unposted streets lacking sidewalks. City staff are reviewing speed data, consulting with other cities, and considering engineering studies to determine if a speed limit change is warranted, and have invited Beach to an upcoming open house.
Newton Fire/EMS Joins Statewide Search and Rescue Response System via MOU
The City Commission approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Newton fire/EMS department regarding the Kansas search and rescue response system. This statewide agreement facilitates mutual aid for large, multi-jurisdictional emergencies. It outlines responsibilities for both entities, prioritizing local response and concerns. The MOU is a renewal of a previous agreement, allowing Newton's fire/EMS department to be a state-deployable asset. Labor hours for deployed personnel are often reimbursable through disaster declarations. The department has previously assisted in regional and state-level disaster responses.
Gilger Family Wins American 250 Yard Decorating Contest
Rhonda and Dawn Gilger were awarded the American 250 Yard Decorating Contest prize for their patriotic display at 108 South Maine. The contest, suggested by a member of the public, aimed to encourage patriotic yard displays for the 4th of July and tie into the America 250 anniversary. Entries were judged on creativity, theme, visual impact, and community spirit, with extra points for local Newton themes. The Gilgers, owners of a historic 118-year-old house, were praised for their classic Americana look and enthusiastic display.
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Kansas State Board of Education Meeting | July 15 , 2026
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