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• What’s Been Decided
  Key actions from recent City Commission meetings and other decisions affecting our community.
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  Updates on projects currently underway.
• What’s Next
  A look ahead at upcoming projects, opportunities for input, and other things on the horizon for Abilene.

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Traffic Signal Update: 21st Street and Buckeye               

Over the past several months, City staff have been troubleshooting the traffic signal at 21st Street and Buckeye Avenue. During damp or wet weather, the signal has been going into what is known as “flash mode.” When this happens, Buckeye traffic flashes yellow and 21st Street traffic flashes red. While this can be frustrating, it is a built-in safety feature designed to reduce the risk of accidents when the system detects a problem.

The source of the issue has now been identified as aging wiring within the signal. Traffic signal wiring typically has a life expectancy of about 20 years, depending on the quality of the materials and environmental conditions.

The City is currently receiving bids to replace the wiring and hopes to have the issue resolved this spring. In the meantime, staff will continue making every effort to keep the signal operating correctly.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while this work is completed.

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Welcoming New Commissioners and Board Volunteers

During the January 12, 2026, City Commission meeting, we recognized the people who serve our community in many ways, from elected leadership to volunteer boards, as commissioner terms concluded, new commissioners were sworn in, the Mayor and Vice Mayor were selected, and new board appointments were made.

We thanked Commissioners Trevor Witt and Wendy Miller for their service and dedication to Abilene.

Pictured: Mayor Rein presenting Commissioner Witt (right) with a plaque of appreciation. Commissioner Miller not present. 

We welcomed three new Commissioners and appreciate their commitment to serving the City and our residents.

• Commissioner John Kollhoff (4-year term)
• Commissioner Debbie Lytle (4-year term)
• Cy Taylor (2-year term)

Pictured (left to right): First Photo - City Clerk Mohr, Commissioner Kollhoff, Commissioner Taylor. Second Photo: City Clerk Mohr, Commissioner Lytle

Mayor and Vice Mayor were selected to serve in leadership roles for 2026, helping guide City Commission meetings and represent the City.

 Mayor Brandon Rein                                                         Vice-Mayor Cy Taylor

The City Commission approved new appointments to several City boards and committees. We thank each volunteer for their willingness to serve the community.

• Eric Anderson – Planning Commission, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Bill Marshall - Planning Commission, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Rod Boyd – Planning Commission, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Andrew Pankratz – Heritage Commission, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Barry Arp - Heritage Commission, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Kevin Bailey - Heritage Commission, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Samantha Geissinger – Sister City, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Jennie Hiatt – Sister City, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Kim Shafer - Sister City, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Kimmy Phillips – CVB Board, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Elizabeth Weese - CVB Board, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Sarah Anderson – CVB Board, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Lisa Kijowski – CVB Board, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Steve Flynn – Tree Board, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Hayley Whitehair – Tree Board, 3-year term expiring January 2029
• Rebecca Perkins, Airport Board, fill an unexpired term, expiring January 2027

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City Commission Extends Interim City Manager Contract

At the January 12, 2026, City Commission meeting, the City Commission approved an extension of Interim City Manager Jon Quinday’s contract to allow him to continue serving in the role until a new City Manager is hired.

The extension provides continuity in City operations during the recruitment and selection process. It keeps leadership in place while the City works to fill the permanent position.

Quinday has been serving as Interim City Manager since July 2025, and this action allows him to continue overseeing City functions, supporting staff, and carrying out Commission direction during this transition period.

The extension does not change ongoing efforts to recruit and hire a permanent City Manager. It is an administrative step intended to maintain consistency and stability in City leadership.

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City Employee Recognitions and Updates

We also took time to recognize the people who keep the City running each day, from welcoming new employees, to honoring years of service, to acknowledging promotions and training that strengthen public safety and operations.

New Employees in 2025

• Keaton Hargrave – Firefighter
• Tyler Ediger – Recreation Supervisor
• Kevin Reyes – Police Officer
• Madison Anguiano – Court Administrator
• Amber Seiler-Johnson – Facilities Custodian
• Dakotah Whiteley – Public Works Maintenance Worker
• Slade Adee – Public Works Maintenance Worker
• Brandon Huskey – Volunteer Firefighter
• Allison Huntley – Police Officer
• Konnor Weber – Police Officer

Pictured (left to right): Back Row: Commissions Kollhoff, Meysenberg, Rein, Taylor. Front Row: Officer Huntley, Madison Anguiano, Keaton Hargrave, Tyler Ediger, Slade Adee, Officer Reyes.

Service Awards

We recognized City employees receiving service awards in 2025 and thanked them for their continued dedication to the City of Abilene.

• Kari Zook – Deputy City Manager / Community Development Director – 5 Years
• Susan Alexander – Part-time Adult Recreation Instructor – 5 Years
• Angie Wilkins – Recreation Program Supervisor – 15 Years
• Mark Haaga – Patrol Lieutenant – 20 Years
• Kellee Timbrook – Parks and Recreation Director – 20 Years
• Jason Wilkins – Police Chief – 20 Years

Pictured (left to right): Back Row- Commissioners Kollhoff, Meysenberg, Taylor. Front Row – Kari Zook, Angie Wilkins, Chief Wilkins, Kellee Timbrook, Mayor Rein.

Police Department Reorganization and Promotions 

The Police Department recently completed a reorganization and promotions intended to strengthen leadership development and improve how the department serves the community. A pinning ceremony was held to swear officers into their new roles.

Pictured (Left to right): Chief Wilkins posing with officers being sworn into their new positions during the pinning ceremony. Sergeant Grant Pratt, Lieutenant Skylar Reynolds, Lieutenant Mark Haaga, and Sergeant Chuck Huen.

School Bus Safety Training

In an effort to increase public safety and preparedness, School Resource Officer Kris Kobiskie recently completed School Bus Safety Training hosted by Topeka Public Schools and facilitated by the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Special Response Team. The training focused on planning and response strategies for an active threat situation on a school bus, with an emphasis on keeping students and staff safe.

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Written by Interim City Manager Jon Quinday as a Letter to the Editor, originally published in the January 8, 2026, edition of the Abilene Reflector-Chronicle.

City Update on Stormwater Drainage at Buckeye and Second Streets

The City of Abilene is aware of the stormwater drainage concerns at the Buckeye and Second Streets area near the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) crossing and wants residents to know that this issue is being actively addressed. 

Recent coverage and public comments at a City Commission meeting have raised questions about stormwater drainage at Buckeye and Second Streets. The City would like to provide additional context and an update on the steps being taken to address this issue. 

This location is essential because stormwater from downtown and areas north flows through a drainage pipe that passes beneath the railroad tracks. During recent inspections, 

City staff identified a blockage in this pipe that restricts water flow during heavy rain events. 

What the City Has Done 

City staff investigated the issue and met onsite with representatives from Union Pacific Railroad to review the condition of the drainage structure and discuss next steps. Following that meeting, the City formally requested that the railroad identify a corrective action plan, provide a schedule for repairs, and designate a point of contact to coordinate work. 

Because the drainage pipe is located beneath an active railroad line, the City must coordinate all work with the railroad to ensure public safety and protect critical infrastructure. 

Why the City Cannot Simply Fix the Problem 

While the City maintains stormwater systems throughout Abilene, this specific drainage structure lies within the railroad's right-of-way and beneath active tracks. Federal safety regulations and state law place responsibility for maintaining drainage facilities under railroad tracks on the railroad itself. 

In addition, for safety reasons, the City is not permitted to enter railroad property or perform work under the tracks without railroad authorization and oversight. Any work performed beneath an active rail line must be carefully coordinated to prevent shifting of the tracks, which could pose a serious safety risk. 

Why It Takes Time 

Railroad coordination adds complexity and time to projects like this. Before any debris can be removed or inspections completed, railroad personnel must be present to monitor track conditions. If the pipe were to collapse or shift during cleaning or inspection, it could affect the tracks above. 

The City's plan, once coordination is complete, is to work with the railroad to safely clear the blockage and then assess the condition of the pipe. If damage is confirmed, repair options will be evaluated. These may include installing a new pipe using methods designed to protect both the drainage system and the railroad tracks. 

What Happens Next 

This location ranks high on the City's stormwater maintenance priorities based on flooding risk and system importance. City staff will continue working with Union Pacific Railroad to move the project forward as quickly and safely as possible. 

The City appreciates residents bringing concerns forward and remains committed to keeping the public informed as progress continues. Stormwater infrastructure is often unseen, but protecting it is essential to reducing flooding risks and maintaining public safety. 

Residents with questions about stormwater concerns are encouraged to contact the City Public Works Director at 785-263-3510 for additional information.

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City Hall Closure: What Happened and Why Action Was Taken

City Hall was temporarily closed on January 13, 2026, due to indoor air quality concerns related to sewer gas. We understand there have been questions about why this resulted in the temporary closure, particularly since sewer infrastructure challenges in this area are not new. 

City Hall and the Fire Department share a connected building, and both have long managed limitations related to the age and design of the facility. City maintenance and Fire Department staff follow a regular maintenance and clean-out schedule on the sewer lines beneath the building to help reduce backups. These steps are part of ongoing efforts to keep the building functional and safe.

What changed was the level of impact inside the City Hall offices. Conditions reached a point where closing the building was necessary to protect the health and safety of staff and visitors. Unlike the Fire Department bays, which can be opened for airflow and ventilation, City Hall offices and public areas are more limited in comparison. 

City Hall also includes areas that were formerly part of Parks and Recreation facilities, including restrooms that are no longer in regular use. As staff reviewed the situation, it became clear that these unused sewer lines will need more routine flushing going forward. Over time, the lack of regular water flow contributed to the unsafe conditions experienced. This developed gradually and became more noticeable as conditions evolved.

City staff responded promptly and took the following steps:

• Investigating the source of the issue
• Ventilating affected areas
• Coordinating corrective actions
• Confirming the building was safe before reopening

City Hall reopened once air quality returned to safe levels.

While sewer infrastructure challenges in this shared facility are not new, this closure reinforces the need to continue evaluating long-term solutions. Addressing aging infrastructure takes time, planning, and funding, and situations like this help guide future facility and capital improvement decisions.

We appreciate the professionalism of City maintenance and Fire Department staff who manage these conditions regularly and act quickly when circumstances change.

This situation is also a reminder to homeowners to be mindful of what goes into the sewer system. Feminine hygiene products, “flushable” wipes, and paper towels should never be flushed. Running water periodically through infrequently used drains in your home can also help prevent similar issues. Small preventative steps can help avoid larger, more costly repairs over time.

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Water Watch No Longer in Effect

The Water Watch, which has been in place since July 2024, is no longer in effect as of January 2, 2026.

The Water Watch was originally declared due to low groundwater levels across most city well fields and limited reserve capacity. While conditions improved at times over the past year, levels continued to be monitored closely to ensure the water supply remained stable.

Based on recent system data, groundwater levels and overall system conditions have improved enough to safely lift the Water Watch at this time.

We appreciate the cooperation of residents and businesses who made an effort to conserve water. Those actions helped protect the City’s water supply during a period of concern.

Although the Water Watch has been lifted, using water responsibly remains important year-round. Ongoing conservation efforts help maintain a reliable water system and support long-term planning.

If you have questions about water use or conservation, please contact the Public Works Department at 785-263-3510.

Additional information about the City’s Water Conservation Plan is available online at https://www.abilenecityhall.com/449/Water-Conservation.

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Fire Department Receives Grant for New Skid Unit 

The Abilene Fire Department was awarded a $20,367 grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior to purchase a new skid unit. The grant was funded 100% by the Department of the Interior and did not require any matching funds from the City.

The skid unit includes a 250-gallon water tank, a fire pump, and various hoses. It is mounted in the back of a brush truck and is used for grass fires and other wildland fire responses throughout the City.

The unit was recently put to use during the high wind event on December 18, 2025, when the City experienced two grass fires at the same time. One fire threatened nearby homes, hay bales, and farm ground, while the other threatened key electrical infrastructure and the recycling center. Having the skid unit available helped crews respond quickly and effectively to both incidents.

One of the reasons the Fire Department maintains brush trucks is to serve areas where homes and open land meet, often referred to as the Wildland Urban Interface. According to the Wildfire Risk to Communities program, Abilene has a wildfire risk to homes rating of 71.7%, meaning homes in Abilene have a higher wildfire risk than more than 70% of communities nationwide. This highlights the importance of having equipment specifically designed for grass and wildland fire response.

Grant funding like this allows the Fire Department to improve response capabilities without additional cost to local taxpayers and strengthens the City’s ability to protect property and critical infrastructure during wildfire events.

Pictured: The skid unit mounted in the back of a Fire Department brush truck.

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Understanding Requests for Water and Sewer Service Outside City Limits

At the December 22 meeting, the City Commission approved updates to the City Code related to requests for water and sewer service outside city limits, also known as extraterritorial connections.

These changes do not automatically approve new connections or remove City Commission oversight. Instead, they create clearer procedures for how requests are reviewed and how they fit within the City’s long-term planning goals.

In general, the ordinance update focuses on three key changes:  

• First, it creates a formal process. In the past, requests for water or sewer service outside city limits were handled on a case-by-case basis without a standardized application or review process. The updated ordinance establishes a clear process for how requests are submitted, reviewed by staff, and considered by the City Commission.
• Second, it sets clear expectations and decision-making authority. Requests for extraterritorial water or sewer service are not automatically approved. Each request still requires review by city staff and approval by the City Commission. The City continues to evaluate system capacity, long-term impacts, and cost responsibility before approving any connection.
• Third, it aligns extraterritorial connections with long-term planning. Extending city utilities outside city limits often connects to broader conversations about growth and future annexation. As a condition of an extraterritorial service agreement, the property owner agrees that if the City Commission later determines annexation of the property is in the best interest of the public, the owner will not formally protest annexation. This requirement applies only to the requesting property and is consistent with the City’s adopted Comprehensive Plan.

The ordinance does not change the City’s annexation procedures overall. It simply clarifies that a property receiving extraterritorial utility services agrees not to formally protest any potential future annexation of that property.

We will continue to report on changes to policies and procedures that support the goals of our adopted Comprehensive Plan.

Residents interested in learning more can view Ordinance No. 25-3468, which outlines the requirements for extraterritorial water and sewer service.

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City Commission Actions: December 8, 2025

The following is a brief summary of action taken at the December 8, 2025, 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 AGENDA

• Meeting Minutes – November 24, 2025 — Formal record of actions taken at the previous City Commission meeting. [Approved]
• Appropriation Ordinance A-120825 — Routine approval of scheduled City expenditures. [Approved]
• AP Payment Register – 120825 — List of accounts payable (vendor invoices and bills) authorized for payment. [Approved]
• Closing of All Non-Essential City Services on December 26 — Approved holiday closure for City offices. [Approved]

BUSINESS ITEMS

• Farmland and Hay Lease Agreements — Approved updated lease agreements for City-owned farmland and hay ground. [Approved]
• Ordinance No. 25-3465 – Open Public Records Requests — Amends City Code sections related to fees and costs for accessing or copying public records. [Approved]
• Ordinance No. 25-3466 – Solid Waste Collector Licenses — Approved amendments to Section 3-1103 of the City Code related to solid waste collector licensing. [Approved]
• Progressive Design-Build Agreement – Recreation Improvement Project — Approved entering into a Progressive Design-Build Project Agreement with Mid-America Sports Construction. [Approved]
• Resolution 120825-1 – Purchasing Policy — Approved an amended and restated purchasing policy, including the addition of language authorizing the City Manager to approve sole-source purchases up to $25,000. [Approved]

ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION

• Water Rate and Cost of Service Study — Presentation by Raftelis. [No Action Taken - Discussion Only]
• Concession Structures and Tenancy on City-Owned Property — Discussion regarding facilities and tenancy arrangements. [No Action Taken - Discussion Only]

EXECUTIVE SESSION

• Executive Session — The Commission recessed for 15 minutes to discuss the performance and role of a City employee, including the City Manager and City Attorney. The meeting resumed at 6:10 p.m. [No Action Taken]

 STUDY SESSION
Study sessions are information only — No actions are taken.

Following the adjournment of the regular meeting, the City Commission held a study session approximately 15 minutes later at City Hall. The study session was not televised.

Study sessions are held for informational and discussion purposes only, and no formal action is taken. This format allows Commissioners and staff to engage in roundtable discussion, ask questions, and explore topics in greater depth to support learning and understanding of items that may later be presented to the Commission for formal consideration and action.

This study session format was used by past City Commissions prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, space limitations and distancing requirements led to study sessions being held in the Commission room. The City has returned to this earlier format to better support discussion and learning. While not televised, study sessions remain open to the public.

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. 

• December 22, 2025 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Meeting & Study Session
• January 12, 2026 — 4:00 p.m., City Commission Meeting & Study Session
  
  

Residents 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.  

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