News Flash

Your twice-monthly source on city news, decisions, and projects — all in one place.Each edition gives you:What’s Been DecidedKey actions from recent City Commission meetings and other decisions affecting our community.What’s HappeningUpdates on projects currently underway.What’s NextA look ahead at upcoming projects, opportunities for input, and other things on the horizon for Abilene.  Stay informed and engaged — sign up for email or text notifications so you never miss an update.   Subscribe     Archives     Jump to Commission Actions  What’s in this editionTeen Dating Violence Awareness ProclamationLAST DAY - Dog Tag Renewals Due by February 27City Manager Candidate Interviews HeldTraffic Signal at 21st & Buckeye RepairedAgenda Center — New LookTechnology Standards Advisory Committee EstablishedCity Commission Actions: February 23, 2026Stay ConnectedLAST DAY - Dog Tag Renewals Due by February 27Dog tags are required for any dogs living within the city limits. Dog tags must be renewed each year.The deadline to renew is February 27, 2026. A late fee will apply after that date.To Register:Apply in person at City Hall, 419 N Broadway.Provide proof of current rabies vaccination.Cost is $2 for spayed or neutered dogs, and $5 for intact dogs.A late fee will be applied after February 27th.Tags must be worn on the dog’s collar when the dog is outside.View a printable version of registration requirements at https://www.abilenecityhall.com/DocumentCenter/View/3013/Dog-Licensing-info.↑ Back to topTeen Dating Violence Awareness ProclamationAt the February 23, 2026, City Commission meeting, Mayor Rein proclaimed February 2026 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness month and urged citizens to recognize, support, and assist all those who serve the rights and needs of victims of teen dating violence, and to promote healthy, respectful relationships throughout our community.View the signed proclamation (PDF)View an accessible text version of the proclamation↑ Back to topCity Manager Candidate Interviews HeldOn February 25, 2026, the Abilene City Commission held a special meeting to interview candidates for the City Manager position.The meeting opened in public session and then recessed into executive session, along with the selection committee, to conduct interviews. No action was taken following the executive session, and the meeting was adjourned.The City Commission and the selection committee will continue the recruitment process during a special meeting scheduled for Monday, March 2, 2026.The selection committee includes the following community members:Ross TaplinDana SprinkleElizabeth WeeseCassy WilsonMarcus RothchildNatalie MuruatoUpdates will be shared as information becomes available.↑ Back to topTraffic Signal at 21st & Buckeye RepairedThe traffic signal at NE 21st Street and Buckeye Avenue has been repaired and is operating normally.As previously reported, the signal had been going into flash mode during damp or wet weather due to aging wiring within the system. The wiring has now been replaced, resolving the issue.Thank you for your patience while this work was completed.↑ Back to topAgenda Center — New LookA new layout of our board agenda and minutes center was launched on the website this week. The updated platform includes a refreshed look and improved navigation for agendas, packets, and minutes.The most noticeable change is within the meeting agenda itself. Discussion items are now clickable links to the supporting documents, which means no more scrolling through hundreds of pages to find an attachment.As with any system transition, there may be minor technical adjustments as we work through the rollout.We appreciate your patience while we finalize setup and continue improving the user experience.If you are not already signed up to receive notifications when agendas are posted, visit https://www.abilenecityhall.com/782/Agendas-Minutes to subscribe.↑ Back to topTechnology Standards Advisory Committee EstablishedA Technology Standards Advisory Committee (TSAC) has been formed to support coordinated and forward-looking use of technology across City departments.Technology plays a role in how services are delivered, how information is managed, and how the City communicates with residents. TSAC will review current software and digital tools, consider data governance and security practices, and discuss best practices for evaluating emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. The intent is to promote consistency and long-term planning in how technology supports City operations.The committee is composed of staff representing multiple departments:Mike Ragsdale (Chair), Police DepartmentKellie Olson (Vice-Chair), Community DevelopmentKris Kobiskie, Police DepartmentCaleb Barnhart, Police DepartmentAngie Wilkins, Parks & RecreationJeremy Stuck, Fire DepartmentMegan Jenkins, City Hall/Utility Department↑ Back to topCity Commission Actions: February 23, 2026The following is a brief summary of action taken at the February 23, 2026, City Commission meeting, and does not represent the official minutes. This recap highlights Commission actions and provides background for context. Full details, staff reports, and supporting documents are available in the official agenda packet in the Agenda Center.Consent AgendaThe Commission approved the consent agenda, which included:Meeting Minutes – February 9, 2026 (Regular Meeting) — Formal record of actions taken at the previous City Commission meeting.Meeting Minutes – February 18, 2026 (Special Meeting) — Formal record of actions taken at the previous special meeting.Appropriation Ordinance A-022326-1 — Routine approval of scheduled City expenditures.AP Payment Register 022326 — List of accounts payable (vendor invoices and bills) authorized for payment.Public comments and communciationsA resident asked questions related to drainage under the railroad tracks (to be discussed when the Interim City Manager returns), the CCLIP downtown project (including why storm drain improvements are included), and damage in the Civic Center parking lot related to roofing work.Unfinished BusinessResolution No. 022326-1  — Public hearing notice for proposed Community Improvement District (CID) — The Commission approved a resolution calling for a public hearing on the advisability of creating the “Scooters 1406 N. Buckeye Ave. Community Improvement District” and a 1.0% CID sales tax within the district. [Approved]New BusinessOrdinance No. 26-3473  — Rackets Tap House special events alley closure and alcohol consumption area — The Commission approved an ordinance allowing the consumption of alcoholic liquor in a specified portion of the public alley between N. Broadway St. and N. Spruce St., along with temporary alley closures during certain special events hosted by Rackets Tap House, Inc. [Approved]Department ReportsMonthly department reports received (January 2026) — Community Development code violations; Community Development permit summary; CVB and transient guest tax; Fire Department; Police Department; Public Works.Annual reports received (2025) — Recycling and Tree Board.ProclamationTeen Dating Violence Awareness Month (February 2026)  — A proclamation was read recognizing Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.Study Session – No Action Is TakenFollowing adjournment of the regular meeting, the City Commission held a study session at City Hall.Topics discussed during the study session included:Community Improvement District (CID) Policy Update – Continued Discussion — The Commission continued its review of proposed updates to the City’s Community Improvement District (CID) Policy. The discussion focused on revisions to the policy language, application procedures, evaluation criteria, and financing guidelines for future CID requests. No formal action was taken.The study session provides an opportunity for Commissioners and staff to discuss items in greater detail, ask questions, and explore topics that may be brought forward for formal action at a later date. Study sessions are open to the public but are not televised.For more in-depth information on agenda items, including staff reports and supporting documents, visit the full agenda packet in the Agenda Center.A recording of the meeting is also available on the city’s YouTube channel.March 2, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Special MeetingMarch 9, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Meeting and Study SessionMarch 23, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Meeting and Study SessionResidents are encouraged to be active participants in their city government by attending City Commission meetings at the Abilene Public Library or by watching live on the city’s YouTube channel on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month at 4:00 p.m.Meeting agendas are posted on the city website the week before each meeting. Each agenda includes time for general public comments under Item 6, allowing residents to address the Commission on topics not listed on the agenda. Many agenda items may also allow time for topic-specific public comment.↑ Back to topWant updates on local events and things to do in Abilene?Visit AbileneKansas.org/Newsletter — the official website of the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau — to sign up for the weekly electronic newsletter about upcoming events, attractions, and community activities.Stay ConnectedDon’t miss future updates. Sign up here to receive Direct from City Hall and other city news by email or text message.You can also browse past editions anytime on our City News archive page.  Back to Top  

The Abilene Fire Department and Public Works Flood Control Division will begin their annual controlled burn of the Mud Creek Levee on February 25, weather permitting.This burn is required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to control tree growth and invasive vegetation along the levee.Burning will take place from the Old 40 bridge to the Smoky Hill River. Work will continue each day until the project is complete.With winds expected from the south, smoke will move into Abilene at times. Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed to help prevent smoke from entering homes.We appreciate the public’s cooperation while this required maintenance is completed.

Work will begin on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, to replace the aging wiring identified earlier this winter.During daytime work hours, the traffic signals will be turned off and the intersection will operate as a four-way stop.At night, the signals will be placed in flash mode.Completion is expected by the end of the day on Thursday, February 26, 2026.Drivers should use caution and expect minor delays while work is underway.(Click on image to enlarge)

Your twice-monthly source on city news, decisions, and projects —  all in one place.Each edition gives you:What’s Been DecidedKey actions from recent City Commission meetings and other decisions affecting our community.What’s HappeningUpdates on projects currently underway.What’s NextA look ahead at upcoming projects, opportunities for input, and other things on the horizon for Abilene.  Stay informed and engaged — sign up for email or text notifications so you never miss an update! Subscribe   Archives   Jump to Commission Recap What’s in this editionWater Rate Changes Approved - What This Means for CustomersDog Tag Renewals Due by February 27Join the Abilene Police Department: Job OpeningCity Commission Actions: February 9, 2026Stay ConnectedWater Rate Changes Approved: What This Means for CustomersOrdinance 26-3472 was adopted during the February 9, 2026, City Commission meeting held at that Abilene Public Library at 4:00 p.m. As a result, city water customers should expect their March 15, 2026, bill to reflect an increase in their water usage rates. Rising costs are frustrating. That’s true whether you’re paying household bills or trying to manage essential services for a community. It can feel especially difficult when utility costs increase, because water is a basic service everyone relies on every day. Water utilities are funded differently than other city services. Water rates are restricted to paying for the water system itself. They cannot be supplemented by property taxes, sales tax, or other revenue sources. When the cost of operating and maintaining the system increases, water rates are the only mechanism available to address those costs. City finances often require balancing two competing responsibilities: protecting the pocketbooks of residents while charging enough to cover the true cost of providing services. Water service sits squarely in the middle of that balance. It is essential, heavily regulated, and more complex to fund than it may appear on the surface. For several years, the City has worked to maintain affordability while still meeting those responsibilities. The recent Water Rate and Cost of Service Study conducted by Raftelis showed that water rates no longer fully cover the cost of providing service. In previous years, reserves were used to help absorb the difference and minimize customer impact. Over time, relying on reserves for ongoing costs reduced the ability to plan for aging infrastructure and respond to major system needs. The study provided the City Commission with a clear picture of what it costs to operate and maintain the water system and helped guide this difficult decision with the intent of balancing system needs with customer impact.💧 View an example of how a residential bill may be impacted.Current rates are available for review online at https://www.abilenecityhall.com/770/Water-Department.Disclaimer: To complete a full review of the City’s utilities, a separate sewer rate study has also been completed and is scheduled to be presented to the City Commission later this year. Additional information will be shared as that discussion moves forward.↑ Back to topDog Tag Renewals Due by February 27Dog tags are required for any dogs living within the city limits. Dog tags must be renewed each year.The deadline to renew is February 27, 2026. A late fee will apply after that date.To Register:Apply in person at City Hall, 419 N Broadway.Provide proof of current rabies vaccination.Cost is $2 for spayed or neutered dogs, and $5 for intact dogs.A late fee will be applied after February 27th.Tags must be worn on the dog’s collar when the dog is outside.View a printable version of registration requirements at https://www.abilenecityhall.com/DocumentCenter/View/3013/Dog-Licensing-info. ↑ Back to top Job Opening: Abilene Police Department Serve with PURPOSE. Protect with PRIDE. The Abilene Police Department is accepting applications for the position of Police Officer. Why Abilene PD? Community-oriented policingCompetitive pay & benefitsPaid training & advancementStrong teamwork & leadershipEmployee Benefits:Health, Dental & Vision InsuranceRetirement through KP&FPaid Vacation & Sick LeaveUniforms & Equipment ProvidedApply today at www.abilenecityhall.com/policedepartmentCity Commission Actions: February 9, 2026The following is a brief summary of action taken at the February 9, 2026, City Commission meeting, and does not represent the official minutes. This recap highlights Commission actions and provides background for context. Full details, staff reports, and supporting documents are available in the official agenda packet in the Agenda Center.CONSENT AGENDAThe Commission approved the consent agenda, which included:Meeting Minutes – January 26, 2026 — Formal record of actions taken at the previous City Commission meeting.Appropriation Ordinance A-020926-1 — Routine approval of scheduled City expenditures.AP Payment Register 020926 — List of accounts payable (vendor invoices and bills) authorized for payment.The Consent Agenda was approved. PRESENTATIONSDickinson County Economic Development Corporation 2025 Report – Natalie Muruato, Director of DKEDC, presented a year-end report outlining 2025 activities and economic development efforts.90% Design Completion – Airport T-Hangars – Representatives from Olsson Engineering provided an update on the Airport T-Hangar project. Reaching 90% design means the layout, structural elements, utilities, and site improvements are substantially finalized, with minor refinements remaining before final design and bidding. The project remains aligned with FAA and KDOT grant requirements. Overview of the Commission–Manager Form of Government – A short video and staff presentation reviewed the commission–manager structure, the roles of the City Commission and City Manager, Kansas Open Meetings Act requirements, and the use of ordinances and resolutions. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:Ordinance 26-3472 – Water Rates and Water Use Provisions —The Commission considered adoption of Ordinance 26-3472, amending Chapter 7 of City Code related to water rates, peak-hour outdoor watering restrictions, and water waste provisions. [Approved] Resolution 020926-1 – Sports Complex Naming Rights Policy — The Commission approved a formal Naming Rights Policy for the Sports Complex. The policy establishes a consistent and transparent framework for recognizing private contributions while protecting the City’s legal and reputational interests. [Approved] NEW BUSINESS: There was no new business. DEPARTMENT REPORTS:NoneSTUDY SESSION – No Action is Taken Following adjournment of the regular meeting, the City Commission held a study session at City Hall.Topics discussed during the study session included:Community Improvement District (CID) Policy Update Discussion – The Commission held a review and discussion of the Kansas Community Improvement District Act and related City policy framework.  No formal action was taken.The study session provided an opportunity for Commissioners and staff to discuss items in greater detail, ask questions, and explore topics that may be brought forward for formal action at a later date. Study sessions are open to the public but are not televised. For more in-depth information on agenda items, including staff reports and supporting documents, visit the full agenda packet in the Agenda Center.A recording of the meeting is also available on the city's YouTube channel. February 18, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Special MeetingFebruary 23, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Meeting & Study SessionMarch 9, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Meeting & Study SessionResidents are encouraged to be active participants in their city government by attending City Commission meetings at the Abilene Public Library or by watching live on the city's YouTube channel on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month at 4:00 p.m.Meeting agendas are posted on the city website the week before each meeting. Each agenda includes time for general public comments under Item 6, allowing residents to address the Commission on topics not listed on the agenda. Many agenda items may also allow time for topic specific public comment.  ↑ Back to topWant updates on local events and things to do in Abilene?Visit AbileneKansas.org/Newsletter — the official website of the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau — to sign up for the weekly electronic newsletter about upcoming events, attractions, and community activities.Stay Connected Don’t miss future updates! Sign up here to receive Direct from City Hall and other city news directly by email or text message.You can also browse past editions anytime on our City News archive page. Back to Top