City of Arkansas City

06/19/2026

Earlier this week, City staff completed the final walk-through of the new Wilson Park Pickleball Courts.

Only a few minor items remain before the project is fully complete. Multicon Inc., the contractor for the pickleball court project, will complete seeding on the east and north sides of the courts, and City staff will make a few adjustments to several light fixtures to fine-tune their aim.

Overall, the facility looks excellent, and we appreciate everyone's efforts in bringing this project across the finish line. We look forward to seeing the community enjoy the courts for years to come.

06/19/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us Thursday evening for the Northwest Community Center Arkansas City, Ks community conversation.

Hosted in partnership with the City of Arkansas City, the Northwest Community Center, and the WSU Public Policy and Management Center, the discussion brought together residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to share ideas about the future of the NWCC.

Participants discussed topics such as how the building is currently used, what would make the center feel more active and welcoming, what would encourage people to return regularly, where the NWCC can make the biggest impact in the community, and opportunities related to funding, staffing, and programming.

The thoughtful feedback and honest conversations will help guide future planning efforts as we work together to strengthen and sustain this important community asset.

We appreciate everyone who took the time to attend, share their perspectives, and be part of the conversation. Your input matters, and we look forward to continuing the discussion as the future of the Northwest Community Center takes shape.

06/18/2026

Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our Wilson Park playground survey!

We received 160 responses, and your feedback is helping shape the future of one of Arkansas City's most-loved parks.

Survey results showed:
• 40% favor adventure challenge course elements
• 36% prefer balance play with a larger central play structure
• 23% would like to see a community-inspired theme

All survey results and comments have been shared with the project architect, who is now developing a playground design based on the community's input.

Our goal is to have the project out for bids and the new playground constructed by the end of October.

We appreciate everyone who shared their ideas and helped guide this exciting improvement to Wilson Park. Stay tuned—we'll share the proposed design as soon as it's available!

06/18/2026

Tonight's the night to help shape the future of the Northwest Community Center.

Join the City of Arkansas City, WSU Public Policy and Management Center, and the Northwest Community Center Arkansas City, Ks from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for a community conversation about what's next for this important community space.

We'll discuss ideas, partnerships, programs, and opportunities to help strengthen and sustain the center for years to come.

Your voice matters, and everyone is welcome. We hope to see you there.

06/18/2026

Mayor Tad Stover read a proclamation during the June 2 City Commission meeting recognizing June 19 as Juneteenth National Independence Day in Arkansas City.

The proclamation was accepted by Robin Henderson on behalf of the local Juneteenth celebration and recognizes the importance of honoring freedom, reflecting on our nation's history, and continuing the pursuit of justice and equality for all.

We encourage residents to join in commemorating Juneteenth and to support the efforts of Juneteenth Cowley County as they bring our community together to learn, reflect, and celebrate.

Thank you to Robin Henderson and the organizers who help make this annual celebration possible.

06/17/2026

What does the future of the Northwest Community Center look like?

Join the City of Arkansas City, WSU Public Policy and Management Center, and the Northwest Community Center Arkansas City, Ks on June 18 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for a community conversation about the future of the center.

Together, we'll discuss ideas, partnerships, and opportunities to help activate, strengthen, and sustain the Northwest Community Center for years to come.

Community input is encouraged, and everyone is welcome to attend.

06/17/2026

The Arkansas City Commission approved several items during Tuesday night’s meeting, including:

• Approved a resurfacing project for W. Madison Avenue (US-166) from the Arkansas River Bridge to 8th Street. Pearson Construction was awarded the project with a bid of $273,070.20, with approximately 90% of eligible costs funded through KDOT’s City Connecting Link Improvement Program.

• Approved multiple equipment purchases for the Environmental Services Department to support in-house water and wastewater infrastructure improvements, including:

* A horizontal directional drill package
* A mini hydraulic excavator
* A compact track loader
* A heavy-duty Freightliner flatbed truck
* A heavy-duty tilt deck trailer

• Approved the purchase of a new refuse truck and packer for the Sanitation Division to replace aging equipment and improve reliability of sanitation services.

• Held a public hearing regarding unsafe and dangerous structures located at:

* 413 N. 1st St.
* 701 N. B St.
* 836 S. C St.
* 219 N. Summit St.

Property owners were directed to repair or demolish the structures within established timelines.

• Approved an agreement to partially forgive special assessments on property located at 717 S. B St., contingent upon the construction of a new residential home within one year, helping return the property to productive use and the tax rolls.

• Approved the allocation of $3,608.50 in unpledged healthcare sales tax funds to SCK Health to help offset uncompensated care provided to community members.

The Commission also received the May 2026 Financial Summary and updates from City staff.

The next City Commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

06/16/2026

Don’t forget to add Etzanoa: The Great Settlement to your summer adventure plans and discover the rich history right here in Arkansas City.

Kansas Families: Do you have school-aged kids? Make sure they are enrolled in Sunflower Summer, a program from ! Get free admission to more than 200 venues across the state from July 9 - August 2. Find all the details and learn more at SunflowerSummer.org

06/16/2026

Meet Brett, the newest addition to our Parks & Facilities team!

We're excited to have him on board and look forward to the contributions he'll make serving the Arkansas City community.

06/15/2026

Congratulations to Logan and Courtney Scott on becoming first-time homeowners in Arkansas City!

Earlier this month, the City of Arkansas City joined the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation in celebrating National Homeownership Month and recognizing the Scotts as they achieved this exciting milestone. KHRC highlighted the programs and resources available to help make homeownership possible for more Kansans, including the First Time Homebuyer Program and the Home Loan Guarantee for Rural Kansas.

Homeownership strengthens our community, supports neighborhood growth, and helps families put down roots right here in Arkansas City. We are grateful to Kansas Housing Resources Corporation for its commitment to expanding housing opportunities across our state.

Please join us in congratulating Logan and Courtney on this exciting new chapter and wishing them many years of happiness in their new home!