CAPTION: The Consulate of Mexico visited Hutchinson Saturday and Sunday and helped community members with Mexican passport updates, identification and voter registration. CREDIT MICHAEL GLENN/THE HUTCHINSON TRIBUNE By Michael Glenn The first Hispanic Health & Resource Fair served over 400 community members with health screenings, identification updates
CAPTION: The Hutchinson Trinity Catholic boys cross country team captured the 2A Marion regional meet Saturday and will compete for a state title next Saturday at Wamego. CREDIT JOE GODINA By John Mesh The Hutchinson Trinity Catholic boys cross country team captured the 2A Marion regional meet
CAPTION: Honey carrot pie is a whole new flavor experience. It’s lightly sweet, and with very additions of honey and vanilla, it has a pleasant, fall-like flavor. It would pair nicely with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. By Lindsey Young I am not my dog’s favorite
The first Boo! Comic Con bustled with attendees and vendors on Saturday in the Cottonwood Court on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Most attendees were decked out in fan and Halloween costumes, greeted each other and chatted with cosplayers and vendors. Vendor booths offered everything from fan-themed merchandise
After a long struggle, Hutchinson is on a business winning streak.
Just this past week, Evergy announced plans to build a billion-dollar plant on a huge area south of Highway 50 recently annexed by the city of Hutchinson.
A new Hilton Garden Inn along Waldron off of 17th St, scheduled to open before the next NJCAA Men’s National Championship tournament in March will bring an Old Chicago and possibly a Popeye’s restaurant.
APAC Shears wants to expand with a new $5 million facility on the corner of Avenue G and Airport Rd.
Trinity Catholic Junior and Senior High School is building a $2.3 million addition on the corner of 17th and Lorraine.
The 1861 Club building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds opened in August. The fairground’s Bison Arena is undergoing renovation.
The Landmark Building’s renovation has begun, bringing more living and office space to the downtown area.
New housing projects will start near Plum Creek Elementary, on the grounds of the former St. Elizabeth’s Hospital at 20th and Monroe and near 11th and Hendricks, reversing a city- and county-wide housing deficit.
Eleven new daycare providers have opened, easing a critical shortage.
The Reno County Chamber of Commerce, City of Hutchinson, Reno County, and countless private citizens and businesses, along with non-profits, have worked quietly for years to bring business to Hutchinson, and those unheralded efforts are yielding fruit.
Businesses that invest in the community without the express aim of sending profits away are a welcome sight, as locally earned profits that stay within the area generate more economic activity. After a long period of economic stagnation and contraction in several key sectors, Reno County looks to turn a corner.
After a long struggle, Hutchinson is on a business winning streak. Just this past week, Evergy announced plans to build a billion-dollar plant on a huge area south of Highway 50 recently annexed by the city of Hutchinson. A new Hilton Garden Inn along Waldron off of
The Hutchinson Tribune created a list of questions for local state senate, representatives and reno county commissioner candidates. The questions act as a voter guide for the 2024 election on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The story will be updated as responses come in.
The responses posted are unedited and come directly from the candidate. If a candidate submits responses after the publishing date, The Hutchinson Tribune will add the responses in the story.
State Senate, District 34
Shanna Henry, District 34, Democratic
Still waiting on a reply from this candidate.
Michael Murphy, District 34, Republican
Still waiting on a reply from this candidate.
State Representative District 101
Joe Seiwert, District 101, Republican
Still waiting on a reply from this candidate.
State Representative District 102
Jason Probst, District 102, Democratic
Why are you running for office and what would you like voters to know?
I’m running for office because I love our community and feel a sense of duty to be of service and do my part to protect Hutchinson from people who don’t have our best interests at heart. I have lived here most of my adult life – I raised a family here, have grandchildren here, and have made a lot of friends here. I have a vested interest in this community’s future.
What issues matter most to you?
Medicaid Expansion and containing growing healthcare costs is a top priority. I also want to provide tax relief – particularly property tax relief – to working Kansans. I believe in funding our schools, investing in infrastructure, creating opportunities for small businesses, and responding to what our constituents tell us is among their top concerns.
What are some issues that you talk about that don’t typically make headlines?
I worked for 6 years to pass the Kansas Contract for Deed Act. This is actually groundbreaking legislation that creates some guardrails and protections for people buying a home on land contract. It requires sellers to be forthcoming about any debt on the note, and ensures they have clear title to sell the property. We’ve experienced issues with this in Hutchinson, and I’m proud to have been part of the solution to stand up against predatory practices in this area.
Do you believe that the topic of abortion has been put to rest following the 2022 constitutional amendment concerning abortion? Do you support any restrictions on the issue?
The voters in my district spoke loud and clear – 3 to 1 against allowing the legislature to regulate reproductive health. My voters clearly do not trust the Kansas Legislature with the power to interfere with a very personal decision between a doctor and a patient.
How well do you feel Kansas works together from a bi-partisan standpoint? How important do you think bi-partisan collaboration is?
I think bi-partisan collaboration is critically important. I think Kansas could do far better. It often feels to me in Topeka that partisan politics is placed ahead of what’s good for Kansas.
What are your thoughts on Medicaid expansion for Kansas?
It’s reprehensible that we’ve not expanded Medicaid – and it’s financially dumb. Our local hospital had to lay off many of its staff, partly because we have upwards of $6 million per year in uncompensated care that could be partially offset by expanded Medicaid. Additionally, we are being cruel by denying essential staff in Kansas access to affordable healthcare. Most of our service employees, hair stylists, hotel workers, and many care-givers would benefit from expansion – but Republican leadership seems to be more concerned that some insurance companies might sell a few less policies to people who can’t afford the deductibles.
What kind of approach can the Kansas government take to help eliminate fentanyl overdoses? What would that process look like?
I’m proud of my work to make sure fentanyl test strips were made legal. That has saved lives. Same with my effort to get the Good Samaritan bill into law. We can work to increase penalties for those who harm our community by bringing in this dangerous drug – while also putting in place policies rooted in compassion and love for people struggling with substance misuse.
Kyler Sweely, District 102, Republican
Why are you running for office and what would you like voters to know?
I’m running to give Hutchinson a strong voice in the Legislature. The current representative has repeatedly chosen party loyalty over the interests of the district. His liberal voting record does not reflect the values we hold in Hutchinson. As someone who fought for our freedoms while deployed overseas, I am ready to bring that same dedication and fight to Topeka.
What issues matter most to you?
If elected, I’ll immediately push for property tax relief, especially for disabled veterans and the elderly. These groups shouldn’t struggle to keep their homes because of rising taxes. I’ll also push to support law enforcement and keep our communities safe. When Kansas families need protection from human trafficking and illegal immigration, Jason Probst has consistently fallen short.
In 2023, Probst voted against HB 2350 which established the crime of human smuggling—exactly the kind of law that could have helped in situations like the recent tragedy in Finney County. There, two traffickers exploited immigrants, including children, forcing them into labor under horrific conditions.
What are some issues that you talk about that don’t typically make headlines?
As a veteran, I understand the sacrifices made by those who served our country, especially those who returned with lasting disabilities. Too many disabled veterans are being left behind, and we must do better as a state and nation to support them. I believe we should pass a property tax relief package based on a veteran’s disability rating. It’s the least we can do for those who fought for our freedom and whose lives will never be the same.
Do you believe that the topic of abortion has been put to rest following the 2022 constitutional amendment concerning abortion? Do you support any restrictions on the issue?
Look, we know that Value Them Both fell in Hutchinson. The people of the 102nd District no doubt showed up to the polls on election day and made their voices heard. Women in the entire state did, so I can acknowledge that. However, I do believe that there is too much support for current restrictions surrounding late-term abortions and using taxpayer funds for abortions. That is in no way fair to the people of Kansas who do not agree on this action. For example, using taxpayer funds for abortion to make Kansas a destination state for those that seek abortions- that statistic has climbed high in recent years, and I personally do not want Kansas known for that. We do, however, need to continue to provide alternatives to abortion, such as the many proper resources that women can have in order to make a decision that will potentially change them for the rest of their lives. I also agree that we have a right and responsibility to protect the unborn, while providing those necessary resources for women to make the decision to protect their unborn child. We need to continue to empower women in this monumental decision and offer a path forward for them and their babies. Now my opponent, Jason Probst, unfortunately can’t say the same. This past session, he voted NO on Senate Substitute for HB 2436 – Creating the crime of coercion to obtain an abortion and providing enhanced criminal penalties for offenses committed with the intent to coerce a woman to obtain an abortion, AND he voted NO to override the governor’s veto. He also voted NO on HB2653- providing child support for unborn children from the date of conception. That’s not all, though. In 2023, he also voted NO on HB2439- Requiring notification to patients that the effects of a medication abortion may be reversible. As you can see, my opponent wants to say he’s in the “party of inclusivity” or “the party of responsibility.” Well for our Kansas women and children, his actions don’t sound very inclusive or responsible to me.
How well do you feel Kansas works together from a bi-partisan standpoint? How important do you think bi-partisan collaboration is?
Kansas has had moments of bipartisan collaboration, but we can and should do more. Bipartisanship works best when we put the needs of our district and state above party loyalty and petty politics. The best solutions come from considering diverse perspectives and building consensus. When we prioritize practical outcomes over political agendas, we create policies that truly benefit all Kansans. My goal is to bring people together, listen to every voice, and work toward solutions that serve our community and state—not just a party platform.
What are your thoughts on Medicaid expansion for Kansas?
I am open to all conversations about how we can improve access to healthcare for Kansans. This issue impacts families across the state, from rural areas struggling with hospital closures to urban communities facing high costs and gaps in care. Whether it’s expanding telehealth services, reducing prescription drug prices, or ensuring our veterans, seniors, and low-income families receive the care they deserve, every idea deserves consideration. Healthcare is not a one-size-fits-all issue, and we need collaborative solutions that balance affordability, accessibility, and quality while still maintaining fiscal responsibility.
What kind of approach can the Kansas government take to help eliminate fentanyl overdoses? What would that process look like?
The impact of ignoring the southern border is already being felt in Kansas. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) confirms that 100% of the fentanyl in our state comes from the southern border. When Jason Probst says the border isn’t a Kansas issue, he’s not telling the whole story—and Kansans are paying the price.
We need a tough-on-crime approach to stop those pushing fentanyl into our communities and must stand with other states working to secure the southern border. Probst refused to support a resolution backing Texas in its fight against illegal immigration, turning his back on law enforcement and undermining efforts to keep our communities safe. While other states take action, Probst has chosen politics over protecting Kansans.
State Representative District 104
Lynnett Krieger-Zook, District 104, Democratic
Why are you running for office and what would you like voters to know?
I am running for House District 104 to listen and authentically represent the voters, families and businesses in the communities of Hutchinson, Buhler, Inman and surrounding rural and farming areas. As a retired teacher with over 30 years of teaching in public schools I have seen first hand how decisions of the legislature directly impact our schools and community. If we are to get the work done in Topeka for those living in my community and across the state we have to find ways to problem solve and find solutions to build a strong future. It is time to have a Representative that brings to Topeka the concerns of the district they are representing.
What issues matter most to you?
My top three priorities are strong public schools, tax reform and healthcare and women’s health.
Public Schools: Fully funding public education is one of my top priorities and the reason I decided to run for Kansas House. Public schools accept all students and are held to a high standard for the use of tax dollars. While I support the choices of private and homeschool, they have the ability to limit who enrolls and are not held to the same public school standards or accountability for your tax dollars. The push for vouchers (school choice) has made its way to Kansas. I am concerned about the misuse of your local tax dollars and the negative impact on our community public schools. Tax Reform: After talking with hundreds of voters, I continue to hear how the economy is affecting family budgets with increased costs and property taxes. In 1992, Kansas homeowners paid 35% of the overall tax base in property taxes. In 2023, it’s grown by 21% to 56%. We can work on a bi-partisan bill to lower the tax burden on homeowners and shift back a reasonable tax burden on corporations. Health Care: Valuing life recognizes that healthcare access is a life and death issue. Expanding
Medicaid is a common sense policy that would not only help our most vulnerable populations,including the elderly, veterans, and low wage workers, but would also bring many needed jobs to our state.
What are some issues that you talk about that don’t typically make headlines?
Bipartisanship and working for the voters and families in District104 is what a Representative needs to do in Topeka that does not make headlines. If we are to get the work done in Topeka for those living in my community and across the state we have to find ways to problem solve and find solutions to build a strong future.
Do you believe that the topic of abortion has been put to rest following the 2022 constitutional amendment concerning abortion? Do you support any restrictions on the issue?
The topic of whether a woman has the right to make medical decisions privately between herself and her physician continues to be discussed in the legislature as noted in proposed and passed bills. The Kansas Constitution upholds certain restrictions on this issue.
How well do you feel Kansas works together from a bi-partisan standpoint? How important do you think bi-partisan collaboration is?
In talking with hundreds of voters during my campaign we can have civil conversations. This civility needs to be brought to Topeka. When there is a super majority, bi-partisanship is difficult. It is critical that collaboration, working through the hard conversations and listening must happen in order to create legislation that truly assists the Kansans we represent in our community and those across the state.
What are your thoughts on Medicaid expansion for Kansas?
Valuing life recognizes that healthcare access is a life and death issue. Expanding Medicaid is a common sense policy that would not only help our most vulnerable populations, including the elderly, veterans, and low wage workers, but would also bring many needed jobs to our state.Kansas has lost nearly $7 billion in taxes to other states since 2014 due to not expanding. 80% of Kansans support expanding Medicaid and yet the legislature has continuously refused to bring this issue to a vote at the statehouse. It is time to expand Medicaid to support the 140K Kansans who work but do not have health insurance.
What kind of approach can the Kansas government take to help eliminate fentanyl overdoses? What would that process look like?
Strategies to help eliminate fentanyl overdoses include increase access to naloxone, increasing mental health support, treatment and recovery services and harm reduction strategies such as test strips and drug checking.
Paul Waggoner, District 104, Republican
Why are you running for office and what would you like voters to know?
I am running for Representative because I believe in the conservative principles I have campaigned on since 2018 and the voters in the 104th have endorsed those views repeatedly at the polls, by wide margins. I think conservative free-market economic policies create a more prosperous society for all and conservative social positions are beneficial to families and to our culture as a whole.
What issues matter most to you?
Issues of taxation matter for they effect working families and small businesses the most. The Kansas SGF (State General Fund) budget is on an unsustainable trajectory and must be brought down to earth. I am also hopeful we can revamp the poorly written sports gambling
bill from 2022 and make it less of a giveaway to the casinos and special interests. Literally tens of millions of dollars will be wasted if we do not change the bill.
What are some issues that you talk about that don’t typically make headlines?
The problem with the sports gambling legislation is out of the headlines currently (except in how in effects the Chiefs “stadium bill”). The benefit of keeping KPERS properly funded is not talked about much, but if we can stay the course for another 8 years the state will reap huge (I believe it is about $400-500m per year) savings in employee benefit costs.
Do you believe that the topic of abortion has been put to rest following the 2022 constitutional amendment concerning abortion? Do you support any restrictions on the issue?
Any issue that deals with human life is never “put to rest”. Court rulings change, new legislation can challenge in various ways the Kansas court pronouncements from 2019. That being said most of what we can do is related to expanding the ability of adoption agencies or pregnancy resource centers
to reach out to those in unplanned pregnancy situations. I have been struck by the negative and hostile reaction of Democrats in Topeka to support even the most modest legislation in this general field.
How well do you feel Kansas works together from a bi-partisan standpoint? How important do you think bi-partisan collaboration is?
I think Kansans work together relatively well on bi-partisan measures. Easily 80% of the bills we consider in Topeka pass with huge margins from both caucuses.
What are your thoughts on Medicaid expansion for Kansas?
Medicaid expansion is a bad idea and is totally oversold as to its “benefits”. For the $1.0-$1.4 billion annual cost to run the program we will see only marginal progress (fully 40% of the persons moving to Medicaid already have private insurance). I have gone to multiple
seminars put on by pro-medicaid expansion groups in Topeka and have only grown in my opinion that it is a bad policy idea.
What kind of approach can the Kansas government take to help eliminate fentanyl overdoses? What would that process look like?
I think we have taken some positive steps recently on fentanyl. Realizing that most of the deaths are really “fentanyl poisoning” from spiked drugs helped moved most all legislators to support test strips and other helpful measures.
State Representative, District 114
Kevin D. Schwertfeger, District 114, Republican
Waiting on a reply from this candidate.
The Hutchinson Tribune created a list of questions for local state senate, representatives and reno county commissioner candidates. The questions act as a voter guide for the 2024 election on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The story will be updated as responses come in. The responses posted are
By John Mesh With the aid of six turnovers (five interceptions and one fumble) from Hutchinson Community College, the No. 13 Butler Community College Grizzlies upset the No. 1 Blue Dragons 27-22 on Homecoming Day Saturday at Gowans Stadium. The Grizzlies got two wins in two days,
By Michael Glenn
This past Monday, I had the privilege of covering the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce’s press conference held at the Kansas State Fairgrounds where they announced Evergy will be building a $1 billion natural gas plant in Reno County in the South Hutchinson area.
This is a big economic win for the county, and we should thank and applaud the chamber for their efforts in securing this victory. This will be the largest investment from a company in our county in its history, according to the chamber.
Evergy will get a 10-year tax break once the plant is online. Construction will begin in 2027 with the factory up and running in mid-2030.
With the property tax bill expected to be $500 million throughout the plant’s lifetime, this will help fill the county’s coffers for a long time.
Truth be told, I’m not a huge fan of any fossil fuels, whether it be coal, crude oil or natural gas. However, natural gas is the best of the worst in terms of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, so if we have to use natural gas to convert to clean renewable energy, so be it.
For any citizen who wants to say Hutchinson or Reno County isn’t going anywhere, I’d encourage them to listen to our own governor, Laura Kelly. A reporter from a TV station asked her after the chamber press conference why Hutchinson was chosen for the development. This was her quote:
“A lot of what it was, particularly here in Hutch, was the coming together of all the forces, bringing to the table all the people who needed to be here,” Kelly said. “The economic development folks, the political figures, the other business leaders, and then bringing the state in, too, because it would be a lot of permitting that would go on. So what Hutchinson did, in terms of bringing everybody together to the table, was really, I think, what the CEO did.”
We are a community that is able to talk to each other. When we can get the chamber, economic developers and political leaders to unite and work on common goals, we can truly win.
Take notes, guys. We can continue to win big like this, but it only happens when we can work together, not tear each other down.
By Michael Glenn This past Monday, I had the privilege of covering the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce’s press conference held at the Kansas State Fairgrounds where they announced Evergy will be building a $1 billion natural gas plant in Reno County in the South Hutchinson
The Hutchinson Community men’s cross country team won the Region VI championship and the Blue Dragon women placed second Friday. Both teams are Jayhawk Conference champions. (Blue Dragon Sports). The Hutchinson Community men’s cross country team won the Region VI championship and the Blue Dragon women
Graphic courtesy of Salthawk Sports The Hutchinson Salthawk football team solidified their Kansas Class 5A playoff position with a 42-20 win over Maize South Friday night at Maize South Stadium. Hutchinson improved to 6-2 and will play a first-round home playoff game next week at Gowans Stadium. Great
