(KNZA)--Brown County residents will have the opportunity to vote early for the upcoming August 4th primary election.

The Brown County Clerk’s Office will offer early voting on Thursday, July 16, at three locations. Voting will be available at the Morrill Community Building from 9 to 11 a.m., the Maple Grove West Complex in Hiawatha from noon to 1 p.m., and the Everest Northfield Community Room from 2 to 3 p.m.

Beginning Monday, July 20, through noon on Monday, August 3, residents may vote by advance ballot at the County Clerk’s Office in the Brown County Courthouse during regular business hours.

The courthouse will also be open Saturday morning, July 25, from 10 a.m. to noon for early voting.

The Brown County Clerk’s Office reminds voters that a photo ID is required to cast a ballot.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has officially adopted a land use development code for the county's unincorporated areas.

Commissioners approved the measure on a 2-1 vote during their July 6 meeting. Commissioner Joe Dalinghaus cast the lone dissenting vote.

Before adopting the code, the commission approved a recommendation from County Counselor and County Administrator Austin Parker to add electrical and battery storage facilities to the list of projects requiring a conditional use permit.

The code is intended to protect public health, safety and community welfare while balancing the county's predominantly agricultural landscape with compatible residential and commercial development. It also establishes a permitting process for special land uses to help ensure appropriate siting.

In addition, the code creates zoning districts throughout the county to regulate land uses, building heights and minimum property sizes.

The Nemaha County Planning Commission developed the code with guidance from Parker.

Photo credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--A crop duster pilot escaped serious injury after a crash landing in rural Jackson County Monday afternoon.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says the crash was reported around 12:30 p.m. in a field south of K-9 Highway, about a half-mile west of the Atchison County line, east of Whiting.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the plane struck a communication pole while flying about 100 feet above the ground. The aircraft then crash-landed and caught fire.

Morse says the 49-year-old pilot from Vernon, Texas, was able to get out of the plane and walk to a nearby farmhouse to get help. He was evaluated at the scene by Jackson County EMS but declined transport to a hospital.

Firefighters from the Netawaka and Whiting Fire Departments responded and extinguished the fire. 

(KNZA)--The South Brown County Community Foundation's fifth annual Match Days fundraiser begins Tuesday and runs through Thursday during the Brown County Fair.

Community members can make donations in person each evening from 4:30 until 7:30 at the Horton Blue Building. Donations can also be made online through Grow South Brown beginning Tuesday and continuing through midnight Thursday.

The foundation says Match Days give residents an opportunity to support local nonprofit organizations while stretching the value of every donation.

This year, 29 match sponsors have provided at least 75-thousand dollars in matching funds. A total of 48 nonprofit organizations serving Everest, Horton, the Kickapoo Reservation, Powhattan, and Willis are participating.

Donations will be matched at 50 cents on the dollar on a first-come, first-served basis until matching funds are exhausted.

Last year's Match Days raised nearly 156-thousand dollars in community donations. With matching funds included, the event generated more than 233-thousand dollars to benefit South Brown County nonprofits.

(KNZA)--Voices representing decades of legal, policy, and statehouse journalism experience will provide northeast Kansas voters with multiple perspectives regarding the approaching August 4 ballot question on how the state selects its Supreme Court justices.

The forum, billed as High Court, High Stakes, brings together a past president of the Kansas Bar Association, a Hiawatha attorney, and editors from the Kansas Reflector, for a free public discussion Tuesday evening, July 14, at 6:30, at the Morrill Public Library in Hiawatha.

Panelists include Natalie Haag, who spent eight years on the Kansas Supreme Court Nominating Commission and now serves as executive vice president and general counsel of Capitol Federal Savings Bank, and Kevin Hill, an attorney practicing in Hiawatha. Clay Wirestone, opinions editor for the Kansas Reflector, rounds out the panel, with Sherman Smith, the Reflector's editor in chief, moderating.

The panel will explain how the current merit selection process for Supreme Court justices came about, following the so called triple play of 1956, how that system works today, and how the proposed constitutional amendment could change it going forward.

Audience questions will follow the panel discussion.

Organizers say the vote is open to all registered Kansans, regardless of party.

Brown County United is hosting the event with the goal of educating voters ahead of the primary election.

Anyone not yet registered to vote in Kansas must do so by the end of business Tuesday, July 14, ahead of that evening's forum.

Both, on July 6, were guests of 93.7 FM's Co-Host Monday, answering questions as submitted by Atchison County voters in an informal setting. 
Hear their answers here.

According to a social media post from the City of Atchison, Building Inspector Ryan Bauman has been named the city's July Ace of the Month. The city says Bauman has only been with Atchison for nine months but has already proven himself a valuable addition to the organization.

Bauman received two nominations for the honor. One resident said Bauman went above and beyond researching a zoning question tied to a home renovation project, communicating clearly throughout the process. The city says the resident noted he would have been satisfied with Bauman's help regardless of the outcome, simply because of his empathy and communication, calling him a "great hire" for the city.

The second nomination credited Bauman for stepping in to help a Spanish-speaking customer get the assistance she needed when a coworker ran into a language barrier.

Bauman receives a $50 gift card to a local business and will carry the Ace trophy for the month of July. He'll also be in the running for Ace of the Year.

According to a social media release from Atchison County, the county's proposed 2027 property tax rate is coming in under the revenue neutral rate, or RNR. The revenue neutral rate is set at 57.314 mills, while the county's proposed tax rate is 56.257 mills.

The county explains that the revenue neutral rate is the specific property tax mill levy needed to generate the exact same amount of property tax revenue as the prior year, based on the current year's total assessed valuation. Coming in under that rate means the county portion of residents' tax bills should offer some relief in 2027.

As an example, the county says a home valued at $250,000, at an 11.5% residential assessment rate and the proposed 56.257 mill rate, would generate about $1,617 in county property tax for the year. The county notes that figure reflects only the county's portion of a resident's overall 2027 property tax bill.

KDHE says the advisory was issued Saturday after the city was unable to maintain the minimum required chlorine residual due to an equipment failure, a situation that can put a water system at risk for bacterial contamination.

According to KDHE, laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from Winchester showed no evidence of bacteriological contamination, and officials say all other conditions that placed the system at risk have been resolved.

The quote was for $50,000 and includes concrete work totaling $30,600, $6,800 for trenching,  $600 for a steel grate and $12,000 to erect the building.  

Board members also met with County Treasurer Amanda Bartek-Ramsey and approved her semi-annual report as submitted. 

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Commissioners met with Pawnee County Sheriff Braden Lang, Johnson County Sheriff Lynn Johnson and Pawnee County Attorney Emily Sisco on July 7 to discuss the dispatch agreement between the two counties.

Discussed were the advantages and disadvantages between between Johnson and Richardson counties.

Sheriff Lang and Nancy Tilton also met with the Board to discuss the proposed budget.

An agreement for Emergency Protective Custody with Region 5 was approved following a meeting with EPC representatives.

Commissioners are also reviewing options and a quote for patching a damaged section of the ceiling in the Pawnee County Treasurers office.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council last week approved on first reading, an ordinance concerning the paying of bills in the future.

The ordinance if adopted, would provide for the rounding up or down to the nearest nickel any cash transaction conducted with the City.

Gary Jorn, City Administrator said rounding bills to the nearest nickel is becoming the norm due to the penny being discontinued.

The new ordinance will affect any cash transaction with the City, due to the penny being discontinued.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council Monday evening approved a request from Brandon Brown with the Would Eye Bar to adopt a resolution to place on the November 6 election ballot a question of: “Should the City of Falls City, establish and conduct a lottery as permitted under the Nebraska County and City Lottery Act for community betterment purposes?”

The request passed unanimously.

Another request from Brown, to change the city ordinance to allow alcohol sales until 2 a.m. To mirror the state regulations also passed unanimously.

A third request from Brown to block Stone Street on August 1 from 9 a.m. until midnight for a customer appreciation street dance and special designated liquor license at the Would Eye Bar also was approved by the 8 Council members.

A resolution to abate a nuisance at 1809 Chase Street was approved. The City has been dealing with the property since April of 2024 and the property owner has not complied.

(KLZA)-- Governor Mike Kehoe requested that President Donald J. Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance to 34 Missouri counties in response to dangerous flash flooding, several tornadoes, and intense straight-line winds that heavily impacted several regions of Missouri from June 4-18.

Based on the documented damage and emergency response costs, Governor Kehoe is requesting FEMA Public Assistance for 34 counties including Holt, Nodaway and Worth counties in Northwest Missouri.

If approved, federal assistance will provide critical support as communities continue repairing essential infrastructure and recovering from these devastating storms that extended across nearly one-third of the state in June.

Joint damage assessments conducted by FEMA, SEMA, and local officials estimate more than $32.3 million in emergency response costs and damage to public infrastructure.

(KLZA)-- Farmers Co-operative in Auburn to close convenience store

The Farmers Co-operative convenience store in Auburn will be closing it's doors on July 15.

The Dorchester based Farmers Co-operative says all other services will be maintained as well as the 24-hour access to fuel.

Farmers Co-op provides feed and bulk fuel delivery.

The building at 9th and J Streets in Auburn also houses Auto Air and Repair which is owned and operated by Tom Stukenholtz who plans to relocate his business later this fall.

A news release from the Sheriff's Office notes Wolfe was located at a Falls City apartment where he was arrested on felony warrants.

In addition, 28-year-old Malinda Honea of Falls City who is the resident of the property where Wolfe was arrested, was charged with being an accessory to a felony.

The Sheriff's Office thanked the U-S Marshal Services Metro Fugitive Task Force for their help in the apprehension of Wolfe.

(KMZA)--A new Marshall County Attorney has been selected.

The Marysville Advocate reports that the Marshall County Republican Precinct Committee, during a July 1st convention, selected Meghan Voracek of Seneca for appointment to the position.

Her name has been forwarded to Governor Laura Kelly, who will make the official appointment.

Voracek was the lone applicant for the position. She previously served as Marshall County Attorney from 2019 to 2022, before family obligations led her to return to private law practice.

Since then, Brad Lippert of Sabetha has served as county attorney for both Marshall and Nemaha Counties. Lippert is retiring effective August 1st.

Voracek will fill the remainder of Lippert’s term, which expires in 2028.

Credit: City of Horton/Facebook

(KNZA)--A Horton Public Works employee was recognized for his dedication and service during the Horton City Commission’s July 6th meeting.

Public Works employee Brent Shaffer received both a KUDOS Award and a 10-year service award from Mayor Bryan Stirton. Shaffer was presented the KUDOS Award by the commission for “going above and beyond” in his work with the city.

Officials noted that Shaffer had been on call for the electric department every day for the past year and was always willing to do whatever it took to get the job done. The commission thanked him for his hard work and dedication to the city.

In other business, Public Works Superintendent Randy Mayfield presented a proposal from Approved Paving for chip sealing approximately 23 blocks of city streets. The commission approved the proposal in the amount of $59,300.

The commission also approved a 50-cent-per-hour raise for Code Enforcement Officer Andrew Patterson following his annual evaluation. The raise will take effect on Patterson’s anniversary date.

Following an executive session, commissioners voted to end the Interim Police Chief designation effective immediately. William Entrikin had been serving in that role. The commission appointed Entrikin as Assistant Chief and approved a $1,500 bonus for his service as Interim Chief, noting that he had not previously received additional compensation for the position.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man has been convicted on felony aggravated assault charges.

According to court documents, 36-year-old Dustin McCulley pleaded no contest July 6 in Brown County District Court to two counts of aggravated assault. The court accepted his plea and found him guilty of the offenses.

Sentencing is scheduled for August 3rd.

McCulley is accused of threatening two individuals with a knife on August 31st, 2025. The case was investigated by the Hiawatha Police Department, and McCulley was arrested in December by the Brown County Sheriff’s Office on a warrant.

McCulley remains free on bond.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Winchester public water supply system located in Jefferson County.

The advisory was issued Saturday because  the water system was unable to maintain the minimum required chlorine residual due to equipment failure. Failure to maintain required chlorine residual levels may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination. 

KDHE says customers should boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.

The advisory will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.

(KNZA)--The 101th annual Jackson County Fair kicks off Monday, July 13 at the Northeast Kansas Heritage Complex, south of Holton, and runs through Thursday, July 17.

The theme of this year's fair is “Red, White, Blue, and 4-H Green Too!”.This patriotic theme was submitted by Colin Coleman and officially selected by the Jackson County Commissioners in honor of the 250th Anniversary of the United States

The Kiddie Tractor Pull will be held Monday evening 7:00, with registration being held from 5:30 to 6:45.

Tuesday brings the swine and beef shows.

The fair parade will take place Wednesday evening at 6:00 on Holton's Town Square. Serving as grand marshal's this year are David and Mary Schrock.

The 4-H Style Revue will follow the parade at the Amphitheater.

The livestock sale will be held Thursday evening, beginning at 7:00.

Great Plains Amusement will return with carnival rides and games Tuesday through Saturday evening.

The advisory was issued following a waterline break which caused a loss of pressure in the distribution system, raising concerns about chlorine loss and possible bacterial contamination.

State officials, Friday gave the all clear, issuing a release saying lab testing of water samples from Muscotah showed no evidence of bacteriological contamination, and the conditions that put the system at risk have been resolved.

(KAIR)--The Atchison City Commission, Monday afternoon, will meet in special session to take up next year's property tax rate.

The meeting begins that afternoon 4:30 at Atchison City Hall, where commissioners will consider a resolution stating the city's intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate for 2027.

The revenue neutral rate, calculated by the Atchison County clerk, is 43.709 mills. That's the rate that would bring in the same tax revenue the city collected last year. According to Monday's meeting agenda and supplemental documents, City Manager Mark Westhoff is recommending commissioners set a proposed cap of 45.168 mills instead, a move that would generate about 152,000 dollars more across the general fund, debt service fund, and library fund.

State law requires cities that plan to exceed the revenue neutral rate to notify the county clerk by July 20 and hold a public hearing before adopting a final budget.

Monday's action would set that hearing, along with the city's budget hearing, for September 8th at 4:30 in the afternoon at city hall. 

Commissioners could still choose to adopt a lower mill levy before the budget is finalized, but Monday's resolution sets the ceiling.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Police Department is reminding drivers to slow down as summer travel brings more traffic to Kansas highways. The department is joining law enforcement agencies nationwide in the "Speeding Catches Up With You" enforcement campaign running through July 15.

Officers say speeding is a form of aggressive driving that puts everyone at risk, including passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding increases the chance of losing control of a vehicle, lengthens stopping distances, reduces the effectiveness of safety equipment, and contributes to more serious crashes. Police also note that speeding leads to higher fuel costs and greater economic losses from crashes.

Drivers are encouraged to obey posted speed limits and adjust their speed for road conditions throughout the busy summer travel season.

(KNZA)--The 109th Annual Brown County Free Fair gets underway Saturday, July 11 and continues through Friday, July 17, at the fairgrounds in Horton.

This year’s theme is “Chasing Your Dreams at the Brown County Fair.”

The fair begins Saturday morning as Brown County 4-H clubs rotate on a schedule to drop off their projects at the Blue Building, starting at 8:00.

Sunday’s activities include the horse and pet shows, along with a grilling contest at 4:00 p.m. at the Blue Building.

Monday evening features the public fashion revue and food auction at 6:00 in the Blue Building.

The annual fair parade will take place Tuesday evening at 6:30 in downtown Horton.

Wednesday will highlight livestock events, including the swine, bucket calf, beef, and dairy shows.

For family entertainment, bounce houses, games, and a rock wall will be available Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with bounce houses also available Wednesday evening.

A corn hole tournament is scheduled for Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at the Civic Center.

The fair will conclude Friday evening, July 17 with the awards program and livestock sale.

(KNZA)--Former Jackson County Public Works Director Scott Kieffaber has been charged with a misdemeanor count of misuse of public funds.

The Holton Recorder reports the charge was filed Monday in Jackson County District Court.

According to court documents, Kieffaber is accused of unlawfully using public money in the form of Menards rebates while serving as public works director. The documents indicate the amount involved was less than one thousand dollars.

An arraignment hearing has been scheduled for August 27.

Kieffaber was named public works director in March 2021 after previously serving as the county’s noxious weed and environmental services director since 2019.

He resigned from his county position in April after being placed on unpaid administrative leave by the Jackson County Commission. Commissioners later accepted his resignation effective immediately.

(KNZA)--The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation has filed a federal lawsuit against the Kansas Lottery, accusing the state agency of violating tribal sovereignty by selling lottery tickets and operating lottery machines within the Nation’s reservation boundaries.

According to a release from the tribe, the lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas and claims the lottery continued operations at about two dozen locations on the reservation despite written notices and discussions with state officials.

Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Chairman Joseph “Zeke” Rupnick says the tribe expects Kansas and local governments to recognize treaty-established reservation boundaries and respect the Nation’s sovereignty.

The lawsuit argues that the state’s lottery operations violate the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and interfere with the tribe’s authority to regulate gaming on its lands.

The Nation is also asking the court to affirm that its 900-square-mile reservation, established through an 1846 treaty, remains intact under federal law.

Tribal officials say they are seeking to stop Kansas Lottery operations on the reservation unless the activities comply with federal law and protections for tribal sovereignty.

The Hutchinson News is reporting that Michele White, of New Braunfels, Texas, filed the federal lawsuit last week in U.S. District Court in Topeka, acting as her own attorney. The suit centers on a July 2024 traffic stop by Jackson County Deputy Kyle Scott on U.S. 75 Highway near 179th Road, within the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation reservation.

According to the report, White's complaint alleges Scott had no reasonable suspicion to pull her over, then arrested her in connection with driving under the influence after she passed a breathalyzer test with no alcohol present. The complaint further alleges that while White was handcuffed in the patrol car, Scott intentionally brushed his arm against her breast rather than have a female officer assist her.

A urine test later showed no illegal substances in White's system. Two charges filed against her were dismissed in May 2025 after a magistrate judge ruled Scott's stop had violated her rights.

The lawsuit names Jackson County, Sheriff Timothy Morse, Scott, and Assistant County Attorney Amy Medeiros, along with two additional deputies added as defendants this month.

White is seeking $3 million in punitive damages and $2.5 million in actual and compensatory damages.

The cost of the project is estimated at $92,120 and will include installation of 260 feet of curb utilizing 2,000 square feet of concrete, a handicap ramp and footings for two light poles.

The City is completing the demolition and removal of the existing sidewalks and curbs as well as hauling away the concrete debris. This will be a portion of the City's in-kind contribution toward the project.

The Council also approved part of the requests concerning an application for two additional equine and 2 goats on Levi Jones properties at 1215, East 17th Street, 1201 East 17th Street and an additional parcel on East 17th.

Chuck DiGiacomo asked the Council not to approve the request due to the smell and flies as his property abuts the undefined 17th Street property.

The City Council has recently adopted resolutions regarding the keeping of chickens in the city and annually reviews the request for renewing animal permits in the city.

Council member Joe Buckminster said he would be in favor of having a set, maximum number of animals allowed for each animal permit request in the future.

Jones agreed not to use the property next to DiGiacomo and the Council approved the additional animals on the other two parcels of land.

"Every year, every municipality in the state of Kansas completes a comprehensive annual financial report or audit and single audit of our city finances under generally accepted accounting principles and the governmental accounting standards board principles," said City Manager Mark Westhoff who, along with auditor Stacey Hammond, with the firm Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk and Loyd, presented the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report to commissioners.

The report, upon its completion, contained what's known as an unmodified opinion, essentially a clean bill of health and the highest rating a city can receive, a fact that Mayor La Rochelle Young emphasized during the presentation. "You said that the city does have the highest rating that you were able to give. And could you repeat that for us, please?," Young asked Hammond, who replied by saying, "Correct. You got an unmodified audit opinion, and that is the best kind of opinion the city can get."

Officials say the report accounts for all assets, investments, expenditures, and income across every city program, division, and fund, reconciling the year's actual financial activity rather than projecting ahead like a budget does.

The city's audit committee, made up of community members with backgrounds in finance, law, and insurance, reviewed the report the afternoon of June 30 before it went to the full commission.

Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the 2025 report as presented, which will be posted to the city's website under financial reports.

Officials say a favorable audit helps the city maintain a strong credit rating and secure better terms on future bond issuances.

Photo credit: City of Atchison/Facebook

(KAIR)--Atchison residents have until next week to claim a piece of the fallen Soul Tree at LFM Park. 

A release from the City of Atchison says limbing, ring cuts, and major cuts on the tree have now been completed. Crews removed the larger logs, which will be milled by the monks of St. Benedict's Abbey using their portable lumber mill, along with the nicer burls from the base of the tree, which will be turned into pieces by local artists and woodworkers.

Everything else remaining at the park is available for residents to take home, including small and medium-sized limbs, a few medium-sized stump pieces, and numerous ring cuts.

Removal of the tree, a Siberian Elm known locally as the Soul Tree, began Monday. The landmark had stood on the park's west side for generations before coming down in mid-June after strong winds swept through the area.

The city says once the current work wraps up, the monks will cut the tree's larger logs into slabs, which will spend the next two years drying before being turned into Soul Tree furniture, art, and other woodworking pieces.

The city also reminds residents that the Atchison Art Association's design contest for a permanent Soul Tree memorial at LFM Park remains open, with entries accepted through August 1st.

(KAIR)--Two Horton residents are facing drug charges after a July 8 traffic stop in southern Jackson County.

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy conducted the stop around 4:15 that afternoon on U.S. Highway 75 near 126th Road where a County Sheriff's Office K-9 indicated to the odor of illegal narcotics during a free-air sniff of the vehicle.

Morse says a probable cause search was conducted, leading to both the discovery of alleged methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, and that the passenger was allegedly in violation of his offender registration.

The driver, 38-year-old Lareece Faye Wahquahboshkuk, was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to provide proof of vehicle insurance.

The passenger, Roy Hector Wahquahboshkuk Jr., was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of violation of the offender registration act.

Once in custody, the pair was booked into the Jackson County Jail. 

Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the first crash happened around 3:50 that afternoon on U.S. Highway 59 near Cummings, when 36-year-old Tina Scherer, of Valley Falls, was southbound near Neosho Road. It was then that a deer crossed the road and struck the windshield and roof, going partially through the windshield on the driver's side of the SUV.

Scherer suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported by Atchison County EMS to Topeka's Stormont Vail for treatment.

The second crash happened Wednesday evening around 6:45 on 286th Road near Finny Road where, Laurie says, a car driven by 32-year-old Shyann Stepp, of Huron, left the roadway, struck a steel guard rail and road signs, and came to rest in a ditch in a corn field.

Following the investigation, Stepp was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and taken to the Atchison County Jail.

According to Laurie, Stepp was not transported by EMS but was later evaluated at Amberwell Atchison for minor injuries.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man was seriously injured July 2 in a crash on U.S. 73 Highway that authorities say involved an attempted U-turn.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, dispatch received a report around 7:40 that morning regarding an injury accident near U.S. Highway 73 and 170th Road.

Merchant says 74-year-old James Spicer, of Hiawatha, was driving a pickup southbound on the highway and, as he attempted to turn around, collided with a southbound sedan carrying two Hiawatha residents including the driver, 86-year-old Gary Shefferd, and his passenger, Karen Shefferd.

Both were taken to Amberwell Hiawatha by ambulance, where Karen Shefferd was treated and released. Gary Shefferd was transported by ambulance to the University of Kansas Medical Center for treatment of what Merchant identified as serious injuries.

According to Merchant, Spicer refused medical treatment at the scene and was cited for an illegal U-turn.

Merchant credits Town and Country, Squad 48, Horton Fire, and Horton PD for their assistance at the scene.

(KNZA)--A longtime Doniphan County health department employee is preparing to retire after more than four decades of dedicated public service.

At Monday’s Doniphan County Commission meeting, Health Department Administrator Chantal Wilburn announced the upcoming retirement of Cathi Floyd.

Floyd will officially retire on December 31st, 2026, marking the end of an impressive 44-year career with the Doniphan County Health Department and Home Health division.

Wilburn told commissioners that the department already has a transition plan in place. Home Health Aide Heather Slater will step into Floyd’s role through an internal hire. Slater’s current duties will be redistributed among other aides within the department.

Commissioner Timothy Collins thanked Floyd on behalf of the entire board, recognizing her decades of commitment and the important role she has played in serving the community.

(KNZA)---The 16th Annual Jackson County Rodeo is set for this Friday and Saturday, July 10-11 at the Northeast Kansas Heritage Complex, located at the junction of U.S. Highway 75 and 214th Road, just south of Holton. 

Gates open at 6 p.m. both evenings, with food trucks available on site. 

Fans can enjoy bull and bronc riding, roping events, and entertainment from rodeo funny man Tex Holiday. Youngsters can also take part in Mutton Bustin', Mini Bull Riding, and the Boot Scramble. 

Admission is cash only at the gate. Tickets are $10 for ages 13 and older, $5 for children ages 6 to 12, and kids 5 and under get in free. Coolers are welcome for an additional $5 fee. 

The rodeo is presented by the Jackson County Fair Association.

(KNZA)--A 12-year-old boy was injured in a two-vehicle crash Wednesday morning on K-16 Highway in Jackson County.

WIBW-TV reports the crash happened just before 11:30 a.m., about three miles west of Holton.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says a westbound flatbed pickup rear-ended a trash truck that was stopped on the highway.

The boy, a passenger in the pickup, was taken by ambulance to a Topeka hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

The pickup driver was not seriously injured, and no one else was hurt.

The crash remains under investigation.

Joel Roberts/Credit: Jefferson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--A 19-year-old Oskaloosa man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he led law enforcement on a pursuit in Jefferson County on June 28.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Jefferson County District Court, Joel Roberts is charged with two felony counts of battery on a law enforcement officer, felony fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, felony interference with law enforcement, and one misdemeanor count of battery on a law enforcement officer.

Prosecutors allege Roberts fled from officers while driving recklessly before later allegedly battering multiple law enforcement officers, including one incident that resulted in serious injury, and another while confined in the Jefferson County Jail.

Roberts remains held in the Jefferson County Jail on a $100,000 bond.

A status hearing in the case has been set for July 23.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant/Credit: Brown Co Sheriff's Office  

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant has been reappointed to the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers' Standards and Training.

Governor Laura Kelly announced the appointment on June 26.

The Commission is responsible for establishing and enforcing standards for the training and certification of Kansas law enforcement officers while promoting professionalism, accountability and public trust throughout the state.

Merchant is one of five members serving on the Commission.

He has served as Brown County Sheriff since 2008.

In 2019 breeches in the levee allowed flooding along the Missouri River covered thousands of acres of farmland and caused damage to the City of Peru drinking water system.

Following the flooding, there was only a limited amount of funding available to repair the damage with the project at that time ineligible for public disaster funding.

A special resolution was passed to allow the “inactive” levee districts to receive disaster recovery funds.

The current repair project will fill gaps in the levee and provide top soil and seeding to resist damage from future water events.

Ricketts says the repair project is scheduled for completion in November of 2027. The goal is to make sure there is not another incident of flooding along the levee system like there was in 2019.

Concerns have been raised about the scooter riders not obeying traffic laws as well as riding the on sidewalks in the downtown areas.

During Monday night's Falls City Council meeting, City Administrator Gary Jorn informed the Council that the scooters will be an item on the agenda for the July 20th Council meeting. The City has been receiving a high volume of complaints about the scooters buzzing around town and be ridden in the downtown business area on sidewalks.

A request was made to put the topic on the agenda. Jorn delayed putting it on the agenda until the second meeting of the month to allow time for research and to let the Council members review an ordinance the city of Hastings has in place currently.

Included in the Hastings ordinance are regulations that it is unlawful to ride on a sidewalk within the business district.

Riders must obey all laws applicable to someone operating a vehicle.

Riders shall yield the right of way to all pedestrians and when entering a roadway, shall yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway.

Many of the electric scooters most kids are riding can travel up to 20 miles per hour, with some having a capacity of even higher speeds.

See information from the Falls City Police Department posted with this story. 
 

City Administrator Gary Jorn explained there have been lots of changes since the plan was last updated in 2014, including new construction and multiple new regulations passed since that time.

It is recommended that comprehensive plans be updated every 10 years.

The City will pay half the cost of updating the plan with EDGE to pay the other half of the cost. The total bill will be $44,500. Part of EDGE's commitment to the city for the funding the economic development group receives from the city is to pay half of the cost of the updates.

Jorn said with changes in housing and regulations and possible projects coming up, now is a good time to update the city plans and regulations.

In other business the Council approved renewing the health insurance for employees with Medica on the recommendation of the Health Insurance Committee. Dan Duren with Benefit Management said his firm recommends staying with Medica, which offers three different plans based on the situation for the employees and their families.

The monthly premium to the city will be approximately $78,573, representing a 10% increase from the current years premium. The total cost for 12 months will be nearly $943,000.

(KMZA)--Authorities have released details about a Nemaha County crash last week that injured a Goff man.

The Nemaha County Sheriff's Office says 40-year-old Christopher Watkins was driving east on 96th Road, west of O Road, on July 2nd just after 3 p.m. when his Pontiac Firebird drifted off the roadway and struck a parked trailer.

Watkins was transported to Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca for treatment of injuries.

(KMZA)--Bids were opened during the June 29th meeting of the Nemaha County Commission for construction of a new EMS building in Seneca.

The board reviewed three proposals for the project. Haverkamp Construction submitted a bid of of just over 617-thousand dollars for a wood building. Stateline Construction submitted bids of 671-thousand dollars for a steel building and nearly 643-thousand for a wood building. AHRS Construction submitted a bid of nearly 623-thousand dollars for a steel building.

The Commission took no action on the bids.

Plans call for a new about 60-by-80-foot EMS facility near the intersection of 7th and Nemaha Streets. County officials have been working toward the project after approving 500-thousand dollars in ARPA funding in December of 2024.

The new building would replace the current EMS location, which is housed with the Seneca Fire Department.

Richard Dean Burge II/Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff

(KAIR)--A reported weekend Atchison County disturbance led to a response from Sheriff's Deputies and to one arrest, with an Atchison man now facing charges, including alleged drug possession. 

According to a release from Sheriff Jack Laurie, deputies, around 5:30 on the evening of July 4th, responded to Sherman Road where the disturbance and possible battery was reported to have occurred. 

Deputies, upon arrival, were told by a 38-year-old Atchison woman that she had been the victim of an altercation, allegedly involving Richard Dean Burge II, while they drove south on Sherman Road.

The investigation led deputies to arrest Burge for domestic battery, as well as possession of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. 

Once in custody, Burge was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

His bond is set at $50,000.

The Flatwater Free Press reports that following a 30% budget reductions last year, transit agencies received word from the Nebraska Department of Transportation this spring that another round of cuts is coming in fiscal year 2027.

The Blue Rivers Area Agency Public Transportation System which is one of the largest in the state, is receiving $26,000 less than requested and expects to start in the hole in July.

Statewide, some transit agencies are raising fares, cutting service hours or considering closing altogether.

Since fiscal year 2022, Nebraska's annual federal funding has hovered between $11.1 million and $11.9 million, with around $9 million to be split among the 49 rural transit agencies.

Nebraska's rural transit agencies receive three streams of funding for reimbursable expenses: federal, state and local match dollars. Usually, local matches from counties, cities or villages represent the smallest piece of the pie and cover what the others don't.

But with federal and state dollars stretched thin, agencies are looking for greater support from local governments.

The Blue Rivers Public Transportation system has also raised rates and cut service hours in several of the southeast Nebraska towns it serves.

Quotes of $72,097 from Vice Contracting and $50,000 from Froeschl Concrete were received. Action was tabled until the July 8th meeting.

On a 2-1 vote with Commissioner John Caverzagie casting the nay vote, the Board approved a request from Sheriff Rick Hardesty to rehire former Deputy Sheriff Braden Shiley.

An approximate $1,500 expenditure for a deck storage system for a new pickup the Sheriff's Department has was approved.

County Assessor Kim Riggs and Multi-County Information Program Services representatives presented a contract for professional services to the County for a comprehensive rural parcel valuation project which will include approximately 1,720 parcels in Richardson County. The cost is proposed at $79,120. No action was taken.

Extension Educator Kaytlyn Kennedy met with the Commissioners to further review the possibility of renting a vehicle through a University of Nebraska program for the staff to use to help with the costs of travel expenses by the staff.

The cost to rent the vehicle would be $405 per month. After 12 months the rate would be reduced for the next year.

An agreement with Region V Systems to provide Emergency Protective Services through June 30, 2027 was approved.

Overall, Kansas law enforcement agencies reported 66,947 total index crimes last year. That's a 19.7 percent decrease from the state's 10 year average, and the lowest crime index rate recorded in 57 years.

But violent crime is moving in the other direction. The KBI reports 13,588 violent crimes in 2025, a jump of more than 7 percent from 2024, and about 7 percent above the 10 year average. Violent crimes include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault or battery.

The increase was driven largely by aggravated assaults and batteries, which rose 8.5 percent from the previous year and sat more than 15 percent above the 10 year average.

The state recorded 122 murders in 2025. That's up slightly from 2024, but still 19.2 percent below the 10 year average. The KBI says most of those cases stemmed from disputes, domestic violence, or unknown circumstances. Robberies, meanwhile, continued to decline, down nearly 30 percent from the 10 year average.

Property crime told a different story, dropping 8.3 percent from 2024 and sitting almost 25 percent below the 10 year average. That category covers burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Burglaries alone fell nearly 40 percent below average.

The KBI compiles the annual report from data submitted by local and state Kansas law enforcement agencies.

Coleman Younger/Credit: Facebook

(KMZA)---A new Nemaha County attorney has been selected.

Members of the Nemaha County Republican Central Committee, meeting in convention June 24 at the Nemaha County Courthouse, chose Coleman Younger to fill the unexpired term of County Attorney Brad Lippert.

Lippert is retiring August 1 after serving as county attorney since 1997.

Younger was the only candidate for the position. His name has been forwarded to Governor Laura Kelly, who will make the official appointment.

A Frankfort native, Younger began his legal career in 2015 after graduating from Washburn University School of Law in Topeka. He currently works as a trial attorney in Wichita and previously operated his own law firm in Garden City. He also practiced with a law firm in Marysville.

Shortly after 9:30 Friday evening a severe thunderstorm moved through the area carrying winds of around 80 miles per hour.

The storm caused tree damaged throughout the community and damaged several homes and other buildings.

The Cook Village Board submitted a state of emergency declaration to the State of Nebraska Emergency Management Agency Saturday.

Residents of Cook are encouraged to submit a list of damages on the Johnson and Pawnee Counties Emergency Management Agency damage assessment tool which is available online at ne-johnson.orioncentral.com/SelfReporter.

Village residents may hall tree limbs damaged by the storm to a local tree dump site.

Holt County is among the counties included in the disaster declaration.

The President's action makes the FEMA Public Assistance program available to local governments and qualifying nonprofits for the repair and restoration of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of emergency response costs.

FEMA has informed the state that Governor Kehoe's request for FEMA Individual Assistance in 6 counties, including Holt County is under review, as is the request for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program assistance.

(KAIR)--A historic Atchison church now holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Documents received by the City of Atchison show the Kansas Historical Society has confirmed that First Presbyterian Church, located at 302 North 5th Street, was officially listed in the National Register on April 13th.

The designation recognizes the church as a site of historic significance, adding it to the list of protected landmarks in Atchison.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, the City and the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce and Locally Atchison Main Street will co-host a public meeting Wednesday evening at 5:00 in the City Commission Room at City Hall.

The release says the grant-funded survey was designed to document and preserve the historic character of downtown Atchison, evaluating buildings, structures, and sites to establish a clearer record of the area's development patterns and architectural features. The survey focused on the downtown commercial district and surrounding blocks with a concentration of historic buildings.

The city says the information gathered will be logged into the Kansas Historic Resources Inventory and could eventually lead to a National Register of Historic Places designation as a potential historic district.

The survey was conducted by Post Oak Preservation, a firm with experience in architectural history and community-based historic documentation. Field work included exterior photography, mapping, and research into construction dates, architectural styles, and historic uses. Post Oak Preservation staff will lead Wednesday's presentation.

The city is encouraging members of the public, along with building and business owners, to attend and take part.

(KAIR)--Removal of what remains of the longstanding Siberian Elm tree, known locally to Atchison residents as the Soul Tree, began Monday, with the City of Atchison saying keepsakes are being made available from the remnants.

According to a release from the city, Urban Lawncare began the work Monday, limbing the Soul Tree and preparing it for milling, creating piles of smaller branches and so-called "cookies" outside the work zone for anyone who wants to take home a piece of the beloved landmark.

The tree, a fixture on the park's west side for generations, came down in mid-June after strong winds swept through the area.

The city said once the current work wraps up, the monks of St. Benedict's Abbey have agreed to bring in their portable lumber mill to cut the tree's larger logs into slabs. Those slabs will spend the next two years drying before being turned into Soul Tree furniture, art, and other woodworking pieces.

The city also sends the reminder to residents that the Atchison Art Association's design contest for a permanent Soul Tree memorial at LFM Park remains open, with entries accepted through August 1st.

(KLZA)-- Two people escaped injury after a single-engine Cessna made an emergency landing on a Richardson County gravel road Sunday evening.

The landing happened just after 8 p.m. near the intersection of 652 Avenue and 714 Road, northeast of Verdon.

According to the Richardson County Sheriff's Office, the aircraft was moved from the roadway onto nearby private property, allowing the county road to reopen.

The plane will remain there while the National Transportation Safety Board, working with the Federal Aviation Administration, conducts an investigation into the incident.

The Richardson County Sheriff's Office, Falls City Rural Fire, and the Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad responded to the scene.

KDHE says the advisory took effect Monday after a waterline break caused a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Officials say that loss of pressure could lead to a drop in chlorine levels and possible bacterial contamination.

The advisory will remain in effect until the system's pressure issues are resolved. 

Until further notice, Muscotah water customers are asked to boil water for one minute before drinking or cooking, or to use bottled water instead. Residents should dispose of any ice cubes and avoid using ice from an automatic icemaker.

39-year-old George Eugene Phillips died Sunday after being found unresponsive in his cell, with a release from the Kansas Department of Corrections saying staff and emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures but were unable to revive him. 

The cause of death is pending results of an independent autopsy.

KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation are, as protocols require, jointly investigating the death, with the probe remaining ongoing.

Phillips was serving a near 48-year sentence out of Sedgwick County for aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and criminal threat.

Photo Credit:  Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Topeka woman is facing multiple charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy stopped a Kia Rio on U.S. Highway 75 near 142nd Road at about 10:30 Sunday morning.

Morse says 42-year-old Crystal Sutton of Topeka was arrested for two counts of aggravated violation of the Kansas Offender Registration Act, nine counts of violating the Kansas Offender Registration Act, and one count of driving while a habitual violator.

Following her arrest, Sutton was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KMZA)--The City of Seneca is upgrading the way it reads water and electric meters.

At its July 1st meeting, the Seneca City Council approved the purchase of a new fixed-based automated meter reading system at a cost of just over 113-thousand dollars. The new system will eliminate the need for employees to collect meter readings in person or by drive-by, making the process more efficient.

In other business, the Council approved the purchase of a new fire truck chassis and cab from Honeyman Ford for nearly 50-thousand-700 dollars. The Fire Department will transfer the existing truck box to the new vehicle. It will replace a 2003 Chevy with 196-thousand miles that has been experiencing mechanical problems.

The Council also approved the purchase of a new Caterpillar 420 backhoe for the city's public works department at a cost of just over $96,000 after trading in the current machine.

Council members also approved the purchase of an Outifi AI call-answering system for 12-thousand-600 dollars, plus a one-time installation fee of 3-thousand dollars. The system will automate emergency notifications and handle incoming outage calls.

In addition the Council voted to allow food trucks to operate in Skoch Park during the Nemaha County Fair without requiring a permit through City Hall.

In a statement, Jefferson County-based Perry Milling says it's acquiring Blair Feeds & Elevator, which closed its Atchison doors in April. The Atchison business was established in 1867 as a flour mill.

The Perry, Kansas company says the acquisition strengthens its manufacturing, grain handling, and distribution capabilities, and expands its ability to serve livestock producers across Kansas.

Facility improvements are expected to begin shortly, focused on operational efficiency, production capacity, and preparing the site for future growth. Because of those upgrades, the Atchison facility will not reopen immediately, with the company to make that public once determined.

The company also says the site's grain elevator infrastructure will help strengthen local grain procurement and support feed production across its network.

(KNZA)--An 85-year-old Wamego man was killed in a two-vehicle crash Saturday morning in Shawnee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash happened just before 8:00 a.m. on U.S. 24 Highway at Countryside Road.

According to the KHP report, a westbound pickup driven by 36-year-old Zachary Obrock of Topeka crossed the center line for an unknown reason and collided head-on with an eastbound car driven by Robert Kidd of Wamego.

Kidd was pronounced dead at the scene.

Obrock was taken to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says Kidd was wearing a seat belt. It was not immediately known whether Obrock was restrained.

Christopher Speckhals/Credit: Brown County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man is facing felony criminal threat charges following his arrest last week.

Thirty-seven-year-old Christopher Speckhals was arrested June 27 after an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department.

According to court documents, Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill filed a three-count complaint Monday in Brown County District Court, charging Speckhals with two felony counts of criminal threat and one misdemeanor count of harassment by telephone.

The charges allege Speckhals threatened two individuals on June 26.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 8. Speckhals remains in the Brown County Jail on a $50,000 bond.

(KNZA)--Area northeast Kansas communities are gearing up for Independence Day celebrations honoring America’s 250th birthday. 

 In Hiawatha, fireworks will light up the sky Friday evening at dusk near the Brown County Historical Society Ag Museum.   

Bern will host a full July 4 celebration including a morning 5K, pancake feed, food trucks, evening activities, and a 10 p.m. fireworks show.   

In Highland, the day features a parade, community events, live music, and a 9:30 p.m. fireworks display. 

In Horton, Summer Slam at Hickory Point includes a pulled pork dinner for a free-will donation , games, tournaments, and family fun Friday evening.   

And in Robinson, a full day of activities—from a morning run and parade to a street dance and fireworks—rounds out the holiday celebration.

Barron Stringfellow/Credit: Facebook

(KNZA)--A local magician and illusionist is being remembered.

Barron Stringfellow of Hiawatha died Tuesday at the age of 66.

Stringfellow discovered his passion for magic at the age of seven, turning a childhood fascination into a career that spanned nearly six decades. He entertained audiences with magic and illusion while becoming an active member of numerous magic organizations, where he mentored and inspired fellow performers.

He was also a familiar face at Hiawatha's annual Maple Leaf Festival, where he regularly performed for festival goers.

A celebration of life is scheduled for July 17 in Robinson.

Stringfellow is survived by his wife, Athena, three daughters, three sons, and other family members.

(KNZA)--The City of Hiawatha has offered to pay Brown County $125,000 annually for continued dispatch services.

City Administrator Brad Scott met with county commissioners Tuesday to discuss the proposal. The county has provided dispatch services for Hiawatha since 1990.

Until 2017, the city paid the county $40,000 per year for those services. That payment was suspended by a previous commission, with the city instead providing in-kind services and directing savings toward law enforcement needs.

Earlier this year, Brown County asked Hiawatha to resume contributing to the cost of dispatch operations. Since then, both sides have been negotiating a new agreement.

Scott told commissioners the city is prepared to offer $125,000 per year, paid quarterly, beginning in 2027. He said the amount fits within the city’s financial plan, noting the city’s 2027 budget discussions focused on avoiding property tax increases.

County Commissioner Richard Tesoriero said the county would prefer the agreement take effect within the current fiscal year. He thanked Scott for the proposal and said commissioners will review and get back with the city.

Ball had been serving under an interim contract that concluded on June 30th, with her resignation becoming effective at that time.

In a letter dated June 29, and addressed to the Doniphan West Family, the school board says "finding the next leader for our district is the highest priority for the board members," who say they're "committed to a smooth transition for our staff and their families and a great start to the 2026-2027 school year ahead," adding that they aim to hire a leader who can "bring stability and focus" on the district's mission.

Ball leaves the district after the school board voted unanimously in April to place her on administrative leave while working through a formal complaint procedure. At the time, board members said the process was meant to be "thorough and fair to all involved," but did not release a reason behind the decision, citing employee privacy and confidentiality laws. A connection between that administrative leave and Ball's resignation has not been publicly confirmed.

This week's letter to the district's patrons also states the school board is "steadfast in our belief that the best for our district is yet to come," and says more news on district leadership will be shared "in the weeks ahead."

Students and staff return to school in August.

Larry Myer/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff

(KAIR)--The Lieutenant for the Brown County Sheriff's Office accused of misdemeanor harassment crimes against a local tribal officer has retained legal counsel from Topeka in advance of his forthcoming first appearance in a Brown County courtroom.

According to online court records, Larry Myer, who also once served as Undersheriff for Atchison County, and a resident of Lancaster, has retained Thomas G. Lemon of the Topeka-based law firm of Cavanaugh, Biggs & Lemon, P.A. to act as his defense in the case accusing him of the charges of intimidation of a witness or victim and harassment by telecommunications device.

Myer, last week, was arrested by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation after agents coordinated his surrender at the Jackson County Jail where the KBI says he was arrested on a warrant for his alleged crimes.

According to a release from the KBI, the Kickapoo Tribal Police Department requested the investigation by the agency in January after Myer allegedly threatened and harassed a tribal officer who had ticketed him for a traffic violation in December of last year.

Brandon Apperson, special prosecutor from the Johnson County District Attorney's Office, was appointed by Brown County to handle the case.

Myer, released on bond following his arrest, is scheduled to make his first appearance on the morning of July 22.

(KNZA)--A Horton man is facing multiple child sex charges in Brown County.

According to court documents, 47-year-old Timothy Workman was charged Monday with six counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Workman was arrested June 26 following an investigation by the Horton Police Department.

The charges stem from alleged sex offenses on June 26 involving two children, one under the age of 14 and the other between the ages of 14 and 16.

Workman remains in the Brown County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

Gerry Rilinger/Credit: Brown County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Fairview man who had been charged with attempted second-degree murder has entered a no contest plea to three charges in the case.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill says 44-year-old Gerry Rilinger entered no contest pleas during a June 22 arraignment to aggravated battery, battery of a correctional officer, and battery on a law enforcement officer following a mediation hearing.

Sentencing is scheduled for August 17.

Hill says, based on Rilinger's criminal history, he faces a presumptive prison sentence of between 114 and 128 months for aggravated battery and between 31 and 34 months for battery of a correctional officer. He said the plea agreement was reached with the active involvement and agreement of the victim, with the understanding it would result in a lengthy prison sentence that also provides an opportunity for treatment while incarcerated.

Rilinger originally faced 10 charges, including attempted second-degree murder, stemming from an alleged violent attack on a woman on November 8, 2025. The victim was hospitalized, and Rilinger was later taken into custody following an altercation with deputies.

Rilinger remains in the Brown County Jail on a $2 million bond.

(KNZA)--Brown County Commissioners have awarded a bid for a bridge replacement project on 170th Street, southwest of Powhattan.

Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to award the contract to B & B Bridge Company of St. Paul, Kansas for $767,480. The action came on the recommendation of project engineer Brady Hedstrom with BG Consultants.

The winning bid was the lower of two submitted and came in more than $200,000 below the engineer's estimate.

Construction is expected to begin in August and is scheduled to take 120 working days.

The project is being funded through a $1.15 million grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation's Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program. Brown County provided more than $127,000 in matching funds to secure the grant.