Progress Commerce & Finance 2018

GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 •

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Special to the Great Bend Tribune Sunday, February 25, 2018

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018

New construction reported in 2017

BY SUSAN THACKER sthacker@gbtribune.com

A major remodeling of the 10th Street Dillons store, which included the addition of a Starbucks Coffee Shop inside, was just one of many commercial projects started in 2017. There was also a new office building at CUNA Mutual Retirement Solutions (formerly CPI), an interior remodel and a new exterior window at the Central Kansas Dream Center (Lasting Life Ministries), and a new office building for the USDA Farm Service Agency at 926 Patton Road.

In 2017, the City of Great Bend issued 228 building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits with an estimated value of more than $26 million.

Great Bend permits issued in 2017: • Building Permits - 97 commercial and 1012 residential with an estimated value of $23,000,462.

• Plumbing Permits - 35 commercial and 98 residential with an estimated value of $145,113.

• Electrical Permits - 61 commercial and 236 residential with an estimated value of $1,345,369.

• Mechanical Permits - 35 commercial and 99 residential with an estimated value of $1,892,050.

Large commercial projects in 2017 that exceeded $10K: • Stueder Contractors Inc., 3410 10th, exterior remodel, $20,000 • City of Great Bend, 8920 8th, new transload facility, $1,300,000 • CPI, 1809 24th, new office building, $3,011,000 • Lasting Life Ministries, 2100 Broadway, interior remodel, $225,000 • Harper Camperland, 1200 10th, canopy addition, $39,995 • Central Kansas Orthopedic Group Inc., 1514 K-96, addition, $101,000 • Retail Buildings Inc. # 271, 3502 10th, interior remodel, $45,000 • Novak Family Partners LP, 3502 10th, interior remodel, $178,752 • Almost Home Inc., 1919 Van Buren, addition, $76,000 • Community Bank of the Midwest, 1513 Stone, new building, $31,000 • City of Great Bend, 1214 Stone, interior remodel, $100,000 • Hammond Inc., 2200 Main, interior remodel, $50,000 • DC Real Estate Holdings LLC, 1519 Main, remodel, $43,345 • D Allison Rentals LLC, 1704 K-96, remodel, $145,000 • Wal-Mart Real Estate Business Trust, 3503 10th, interior remodel, $15,000 • Becker CP LLC, 926 Patton, new office building, $430,000 • DC Real Estate Holdings LLC, 1523 Main, remodel, $110,000 • Audrey Jeanine Lunsford, 2302 Main, exterior remodel, $65,000 • Kroger Texas LP, 4107 10th, interior remodel, $604,023 • City of Great Bend, 525 Morton, new building, $60,000 • Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co Inc., 4210 8th, interior remodel, $17,000 • Barbara & Mark Demel, 5208 10th, addition, $34,000

RUSS EDEM Great Bend Tribune

People place their orders at the Starbucks Coffee inside the 10th Street Dillons store in this file photo from Jan. 31. It was also the grand re-opening of the Dillons store, which has undergone a $3 million renovation. In 2017, the City of Great Bend issued 228 building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits with an estimated value of more than $26 million.

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GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 •

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New complex a win for community

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BY DALE HOGG dhogg@gbtribune.com

n August of 2015, a project years in the making became a reality as the ribbon was cut on the first phase of a gleaming new apartment complex, The Reserves at Trail Ridge.

Then, in November of last year, phase two of this long-awaited project came to fruition with the second ribbon cutting.

This added two more buildings and 48 more apartments to the site, bringing the total to 96 units located at 811 Grant.

Congressman Roger Marshall had the honor to cut the ribbon and he was joined by then Mayor Mike Allison, city officials and representatives of the businesses that helped make the apartment buildings a reality. “It is a great honor to be here with you today marking the opening of this great facility,� Marshall said. “(Great Bend Chamber of Commerce President Jan Peters) and I have been talking about housing in Great Bend for years now and as I travel the district housing is always an issue.

There are many things the government gets wrong, like health care, but one thing they are getting better with and that is public housing and tax credits getting utilized. So I am so pleased to see the second phase of this project open here in Great Bend. What a great addition to the community.�

The Reserves at Trail Ridge was developed and built by Overland Property Group LLC. Based in Leawood and Austin, Texas, this progressive company is one of the fastest growing firms in the Midwest.

OVP Group was founded in 2002, and handles the process from start to finish from market analysis and site selection to financing, design, construction, and management. The company is now one of the largest owner/developers in the region, with more than 40 properties totaling over 2,000 units and $250 million of both “affordable� and “market-rate� apartments. “This is an important development for our community and addresses a huge need for our area residents. Housing has been one of the top priorities of the Great Bend City Council for several years, and this year we have accomplished that goal,� said Allison. “It has been a great partnership with Overland Property Group, and we appreciate their desire to build a top-notch complex in Great Bend.� “The quality of our developments across the Midwest is unlike most others.

We have a very high standard of quality with regards to architecture, design,

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

Congressman Kevin Yoder, center, tours the Reserves at Trail Ridge apartment complex last August while on an ag tour of Kansas. Also pictured, left to right, are Trail Ridge leasing agent Vanessa Lewis and Property Manager April Harbaugh, and Chamber of Commerce President Jan Peters, Mark Mingenback, Paul Snapp and Melinda Kurth.

construction, and management,� said Matt Gillam, Overland vice president of development. “This complex will cater to working class families, young professionals, students, and seniors.�

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

Senator Jerry Moran speaks at the ribbon cutting of the first phase of the Reserves at Trailridge Apartments in August 2015.

The first phase At the time of the first opening, there were 48 units at the complex. The first tenants had started moving in and leased had already been signed on the two- and three-bedroom apartments by the time the ribbon had been cut.

This marked the first new apartment complex built in Great Bend since the 1970s, city officials said. That warranted a gathering of dignitaries, including U.S. Senator Jerry Moran.

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KnowBe4 can alleviate these problems.�

Recently, OPI began offering a new way to enhance this system with a device called Datto. “This security device backs up computers and servers,� Bahr explained. “When you click on something by mistake, a virus or other problem may result. But Datto can get you back to where you were before.�

The device also is helpful after a natural disaster such as a tornado. “Unfortunately, this type of situation can occur.

But your data is still safe and Datto can help you restore it,� Bahr commented.

OPI also continues to enhance its computer networking capabilities with the installation and management of networks for any sized business. “Networking is especially important when a business has multiple locations,�

Bahr said. “Our tech-savvy team can restructure an existing system or install a new one. Because we keep up with all office-related technology, we can troubleshoot today’s problems and help businesses plan for tomorrow.�

OPI collaborates with IT departments and other personnel, making suggestions and offering advice. “When computers can talk to one another, efficiency is increased throughout all departments,� Bahr said.

The family-owned business also provides remote-access diagnostics, which saves time and pre-empts future concerns.

While OPI has all the high-tech equipment and knowledge, it also caters to low-tech needs such as pens and paper, and office furniture. “We welcome customers into our stores but they can also use our huge catalog and reach us online at www. opikan.com,� Bahr summarized. “Our prices on everything from a pencil to a high-tech Canon copier are competitive with big-box stores and other retailers. “In addition, when you patronize OPI or Golden Belt Printing, you are supporting a local family-owned businesses. Your money stays right in here in our local communities.�

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New technology at GBP, 1125 281 Bypass, is just one example of the company taking services to the next level to meet customers’ needs. “Golden Belt Printing has new finishing technology that allows printed materials to be in the hands of customers much sooner than in the past,� Bahr said. “When the product rolls off the press, it is 75 to 100 percent complete. “In the past, the press printed, folded and stapled. Now it also handles the binding and hole punching. The process used to involve three machines, and now most of the work is completed by only one,� Bahr explained.

This capability is especially important to customers who need the product quickly. “Our turn-around time is much quicker,� Bahr said. “And when a customer is facing a big deadline, this is crucial.�

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018

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HOUSING, from page 3 “This place is gorgeous,� Moran said at the time, standing in front of the clubhouse, and facing a three-story apartment building.

Overland Property Group LLC, the investor behind this venture, promotes the “upscale amenities� in its “affordable apartments� – amenities such as knotty alder cabinets, walk-in closets and a wide variety of amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, computer area, playground, and basketball court. The property has been popular because the new apartments are within walking distance of shopping, schools, and healthcare.

Moran noted there is a federal component in this project, built with Low Income Housing Tax Credits. However, he said the local level is where the problems of everyday living are solved. “These good things would not happen in Great Bend but for local community leaders,�

Moran said. “This starts at the grass-roots level and works its way up.�

For those who hope their children or grandchildren will one day return to the community, a project such as this improves the chances of that happening, he added.

Allison noted that the Great Bend City Council has made improving available housing a priority for years. Jan Peters, president and chief executive officer of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development, credited a “visionary city council� with establishing a Rural Housing Incentive District. “It all started because of solid, solid relationships,� Peters said. There were many individuals to acknowledge, including Bret Johnson and Matt Gillam from Overland Property Group. Founded in 2002, OPG has offices in Leawood, Kansas, and Austin, Texas. From market analysis, site selection, financing, design and construction to marketing and management, OPG has more than 40 developments, totaling over 2,000 units and $250 million of both affordable and market-rate apartments.

Also speaking were Dennis Mesa and Fred Bentley from the Kansas Housing Resource Corp.

More work in the area The much anticipated expansion of Eighth Street between Walmart on Grant Street and Dillon’s on McKinley is in the works, following action by the Great Bend City Council.

The council passed a resolution authorizing the job be carried out, as well as approving the pursuing of temporary notes to pay for it. But, ultimately, the entire cost will be assessed back to the property owners along the new street.

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

Shown are the Reserves at Trail Ridge Apartments.

“This has been going on, it seems like, forever,� City Attorney Bob Suelter said.

Discussions with property owners in the area started last winter.

Suelter said the project is on tap for this spring. Some survey work has already been done and some flag markers are already in place.

Making this an issue now are the planned 10th and Grant improvements set to begin late next spring. The scope of the $800,000 project (the state pays 90 percent of this) is to increase turning radii to better accommodate large trucks turning onto Grant from 10th headed to Walmart.

However, this means the 10th and Grant intersection will have to be closed for a spell, blocking all but one entrance into Walmart, and entrances to the Reserves at Trail Ridge, Comfort Inn and other area businesses. Eighth Street would be a relief valve and detour.

The estimated cost of the proposed street improvements is $823,521.88, excluding interest on financing, and administrative and financing costs. This is about a three-block stretch and includes the curb cuts, storm sewer improvements and other necessary related work.

In cases like this, landowners wanting the improvements had to file petition supporting it, Suelter said. If at lest 51 percent or more of landowners in the improvement district sign, the improvement can be made in without a formal hearing.

Walmart owns two strips on the east end and Lighthouse Investments of Great Bend owns entire field that fronts the south edge of the street, and both back the project.

These two amount to 54 percent of the property involved.

Trail Ridge Partners, developers of the Reserves at Trail Ridge apartments, indicated it would also approve of the extension.

The only other property owner involved is Gentilly Real Estate of New Orleans, La., owners of the former Montana Mikes building, and it has not been contacted.

Property owners in the improvement district will be assessed the total cost of the work on a per-frontage-foot basis.

Eighth Street actually takes a jog southward when it reaches McKinley. This means the western terminus of a straight expansion would intersect McKinley north of Eighth as it continues west of McKinley, creating confusion for motorists.

So, making Eighth jog slightly southward before it reaches McKinley allows it to line up with Eighth on the west side of McKinley.

The city already owns the property in the Eighth Street easement. But, the revision may require the city acquiring about a half acre of adjoining farm ground to accommodate the turn, and this would require council approval which has not been done.

Estimates put the additional cost at between $8-10,000 for the land and the ad-

ditional materials involved. However, with this and the increased design costs, the total price for the improvement would still be well within the $830,000 petitioned amount.

Background In 2013, the city commissioned a housing needs study as part of its application for a Rural Housing Incentive District, a tax-credit program. The study quantified the need for housing at different levels and types. It also verified the shortage is expected to worsen if no incentives are put in place, and that the shortage is detrimental to the community’s growth.

According to the study, there were 6,483 total occupied housing units in Great Bend at the time. There were also 630 vacant homes, empty for various reason.

At that time, over half of the current houses dated back to 1959 and earlier. In the past five and a half years prior to the study, there had been only 22 new single-family homes built and 13 senior-living duplexes.

There had been no apartments built for 35 years.

Armed with this study, city officials went looking. And, for several years, the City Council made housing a top priority.

In addition to the Trailridge complex, there was the Amber Meadows housing development, more homes in the StoneRidge area and work by Housing Opportunities Inc.

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018

Sunower DiversiďŹ ed’s economic impact beneďŹ ts ďŹ ve-county area

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unflower Diversified Services has a decades-long legacy of being this area’s one-ofa-kind service provider for infants, toddlers and adults with intellectual delays and disabilities.

But many central Kansans may not realize the extent of its economic impact throughout its service area. Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves families in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties.

Chief Financial Officer Tammie Caley noted that Sunflower employs about 120 staff members, with a payroll of $3.3 million last year. In addition, about 65 Sunflower clients earned $317,000 performing jobs at the agency’s manufacturing plant and recycling center, and in custodial positions.

These numbers indicate Sunflower is one of the larger employers in central Kansas.

Studies have shown that money turns over five times in a community, which means Sunflower’s payroll has an impact of about $16.5 million.

But this is not the end of Sunflower’s economic story, said Sarah Krom, director of adult services. “Yes, our staff and clients personally contribute to the area economy,�

Krom said. “But as a non-profit agency, we also benefit from federal and state matching grants for programs such as our Early Education Center and General Public Transportation. “For the most part, this is new money coming into our community,�

By the numbers Sunflower Diversified Services shared a few 2017 facts and figures, including money spent with local vendors and local services provided. • • • •

Fuel costs, $136,000 Vehicle maintenance, $95,000 Cell phones, $4,700 338 businesses served on free recycling pick-up routes • 2,797,800 pounds of materials recycled • General Public Transportation rides, 50,460 • GPT miles traveled, 303,725

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Joshua Willerton, Sunflower Diversified Services client, wraps hoses for Flame Engineering. Danielle Wylot, staff member, supports him in the job that provides a regular paycheck.

Krom continued. “It then circulates when we match the grant and pay local vendors for such items as fuel, vehicle maintenance, program improvements, therapeutic equipment and many others.�

As of a few weeks ago, Sunflower was serving 134 adult clients. Some are retired, while others

cannot work because of severe disabilities. “Nevertheless,� Krom said, “these folks participate in community activities and spend money on groceries and many other items.�

The area housing market also benefits from Sunflower’s economic impact. The agency works

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Currently, Sunflower clients live as independently as possible in 41 apartments and duplexes rented from local landlords. “If people couldn’t earn

their own paychecks, they would be forced to live less independently,� Krom said. “And that would go against everything we believe in. A job is more than a paycheck. It offers the rewards of self-worth and that great feeling of being productive. “If we didn’t offer so many job options, clients would have to rely more on private donations and government programs, such as food stamps.

Believe me, they would much prefer to work, while paying as much of their own way as possible.�

Executive Director Jon Prescott noted that some staff wages were increased recently, which further adds to the local economy. “We have increased pay for crucial direct-support positions,� Prescott said. “We are attracting more dedicated applicants and are starting to see the effects.

“However, not everyone can do this job,� he added. “Employees must have their hearts in it.

This is more than a paycheck to our great staff.

We want the employee to be a good fit for clients, the agency and our community partners. And, of course, we want the job to be a good fit for the employee personally.�

As Sunflower looks ahead, plans are in the works for new developments in retail, recycling, transportation and other services. The agency also is shifting to more electronics and less paper. “The community can count on us to find new avenues to employment, housing and other services, as we remain good stewards of tax dollars and private donations,�

Prescott said. “We will always provide as many options as we can for high levels of independence.�

Sunflower is in its 52nd year.

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7

BCC continues CTE celebration STORY & PHOTOS BY BRANDON STEINERT Barton Community College

CTE Month 2018: This feature is the last of four stories to be released by Barton Community College in February in celebration of Career Technical Education (CTE) Month.

CTE Month is an annual celebration held in February of CTE community members’ achievements and accomplishments nationwide.

CTE Month 2018, with its tagline of “Celebrate Today, Own Tomorrow!” gives colleges the chance to inform others of the innovation and excellence that exists within our local CTE programs and raise awareness of the crucial role that CTE plays in readying our students for careers and our nation for economic success.

Central Kansas reaps benefits of Barton Community College career and technical education programs Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are a force of prosperity in local economies, and are now a respected mainstream alternative to the four-year-degree paths emphasized in recent decades.

According to an economic impact study on the 2015-16 academic year, every dollar of local taxpayer funding toward Barton Community College stimulates $2.54 in spending in Barton County through Barton’s operations, student spending and alumni who have entered the workforce after graduation. That amounts to an impact on the local

Patrick Cowan economy to the tune of $12.9 million.

Barton’s diverse career and technical offerings range from computer networking and business, to beef cattle production and welding. Each program is designed to fill a need in the local workforce and undoubtedly contributes greatly to the overall economic impact the college brings to its service area.

Barton County resident Patrick Cowan, IT Support Specialist for accounting firm Adams, Brown, Beran & Ball Chtd (ABBB), said he feels this effect on a personal level and sees it throughout the community.

Cowan earned Barton’s Associate in Applied Science in Computer Networking in 2012. He has been working in the industry ever since.

“The fact that it is local is a huge benefit,” he said. “Barton provided a wide range of classes I was interested in at a very

affordable price. I enjoy this career; every day is a little different with new challenges. It provides that sense of intrigue and keeps it fresh and new.”

Cowan represents a life impacted; he experienced the tangible benefit of CTE offerings most people likely think about: a rewarding career that pays a living wage. But, there is another side of the coin. A skilled workforce is a key component of a healthy economy.

Employers in the area can fill openings with local highly skilled professionals without spending the time and money to recruit from outside their areas of service, saving overhead and improving the bottom line.

The need for these skilled workers is projected to grow.

According to data on a national scale published in a January 2018 brochure produced by the Association for Career & Technical Educa-

“Opportunity in Focus” Founded 1922

tion (ACTE), half of all Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) jobs call for workers with less than a bachelor’s degree.

Healthcare occupations are projected to grow 18 percent by 2026, adding more than two million new jobs. Infrastructure for the nation will require three million workers, who will be designing, building and operating transportation, housing, utilities and telecommunications.

Barton student Devon Nelson is enrolled in Barton’s Business Management and Leadership program with plans to graduate in May. He has taken an entrepreneurial approach to a niche market that emerged from the ever-changing nature of our modern society and started a business repairing mobile phone screens.

“Barton gave me the confidence to start my business,” he said. “I definitely think it has

Devon Nelson helped me connect with the community at a more personal level, and the money my business takes on gets put back into the economy in Great Bend.”

After graduating, Nelson plans to work as an apprentice to his grandfather, who owns and operates Aaron’s Repair and Supply, an oilfield repair company.

“I came to Barton to get a business degree so I am knowledgeable enough to effectively carry on my grandfather’s legacy,” he said, crediting his accounting class as one of the key elements he expects will contribute to his success as a business owner.

Cowan and Nelson are not the only local CTE success stories.

Barton tracked 729 CTE students who finished their programs in the 2015-16 academic

year. Two thirds of those graduates either went on to pursue additional education or were employed in a field related to their major. The programs of highest interest were Certified Nurse Aide, Welding, Manufacturing Skills, Paramedic and Registered Nurse.

Barton Career Fair CTE month will culminate with a Career Technical Education Fair open to the public from noon-2:30 p.m. February 28 in the Case New Holland Shop in the Northeast side of the Technical building. Registration opens at noon. The fair will feature demonstrations, hands-on-activities, refreshments, prizes and photo ops with the Barton mascot. To sign up, contact Denise Schreiber at (620) 792-9324 or schreiberd@bartonccc.edu.

8

• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018

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GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 •

9

LAND FOR SALE

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

The area’s struggling ag economy is impacting farm land prices and sales, but professionals seeing market stabilizing.

Farm and ranch land markets, prices evaluated But, there is a silver lining, these professionals say.

Despite the struggling of the area’s agricultural economy, local bankers are seeing land selling, but are seeing the value of that land declining. “Right now there are a normal number of acres for sale,� said Paul Snapp, president First Kansas Bank in Great Bend. “Farm land is moving briskly if it’s priced appropriately in the market.�

Snapp said they have seen an uptick in financing requests on land. “The purchasers are typically strong financially and can afford to take on more debt. I believe land values in and around Barton County have dropped about 25-30 percent from the peak.�

BY DALE HOGG dhogg@gbtribune.com

D

ata released by land grant universities and industry organizations in January point out that there has been less farm and ranch land for sale than usual the past few years. Despite today’s slow land market, Farmers National Company is experiencing a 50 percent increase in the land it has for sale over its previous high volume.

There has also been a softening of land values.

These trends are seen locally as well, area bankers and real estate agents are reporting.

They blame the downturn in the agriculture economy.

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On a related topic, Snapp said machinery prices have softened considerably. “We have seen the value of late model equipment (four to five years old) cut in half from its original purchase price, depending on the brand and the item being sold.� “I would say there is a slight increase in the amount of land being sold,� said Robert Rugan, marketing president for Farmers Bank and Trust in Great Bend. “The key factor, in my opinion, is the extended downturn in the agricultural economy.�

Some producers are making the business decision to restructure debt or reduce debt during the time of stressed cash flows

due to depressed commodity prices, he said. “Further, some older producers that have neared retirement age have decided to go ahead and sell instead of battling the tough market with an uncertain time frame for recovery. Again, I would stress that there is only a slight increase in willing sellers.�

From a banking standpoint, Rugan said business at Farmers has remained steady. “It’s surprising to some, but there is still a lot of cash deals being made where financing is not needed.�

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• GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

Even with a downturn in the agriculture economy, farm and ranch land continues to sell.

LAND, from page 9 Rugan said the bank believes land values have seen an approximate drop of 25-30 percent from the highs three or four years ago. However, there appears to be some stability over the past year.

“There are areas where there is strong competition for a certain piece of ground that has kept land values stable along with, as mentioned before, a good amount of cash sitting on the sidelines ready to pick up that ‘love land,’ that prize piece of ground across the road that they’d love to own,” Rugan said.

The land market The historic run-up in land prices during the decade leading up to and including 2013 faded in to the background as the past four years instead witnessed a steady and measured decline in values for crop and grazing land throughout the Midwest and Great Plains. Some regions experienced the decline sooner with a larger drop-off in land prices, whereas other regions saw less of a decline. Good quality land generally declined less while lower quality tracts saw weak demand and a bigger price decline. At this time, the market for quality land is steady to slightly stronger.

So, what’s next for land values, up or down?

Randy Dickhut, AFM, senior vice president of real estate operations for Farmers National Company, said there are a number of positive factors supporting current land values.

“The industry has experienced a post-harvest bump in land prices in most grain producing areas. With above average crop yields in most locations, farmer optimism has increased as has the bidding for quality crop land.

The supply of land on the

open market remains low while the number of buyers and demand is adequate for what is on the market at this time,” Dickhut said.

Other factors also are providing support for today’s land prices, Dickhut noted. Continued low interest rates are helping create a demand for ag land as a long-term investment for individuals and institutional funds.

In general, there is still enough purchasing power in the hands of farmers to compete for good land or land that helps grow ones operation. We are also seeing a small increase in 1031 tax deferred exchange buyers as they move to trade into different land or to diversify out of other real estate holdings and into cropland,” Dickhut said.

However, there also are factors on the horizon that

could negatively affect land values, Dickhut noted.

Current farm economics are not conducive to strength in the land market. Low grain prices are keeping overall farm income levels depressed.

That means that lower incomes are reducing the cash flow necessary to finance crop inputs, equipment needs and land payments, leaving less cash for land purchases.

“Individual and institutional investors are well aware of the lower grain prices and incomes. The resulting reduction in the return on investment for land has kept some investors out of the land market during the past few years,” he said.

Another factor that may weigh on land prices is that lenders are being more cautious in the amount of

WE ALSO

money they will lend for agricultural land purchases. This could dampen demand as farmers and ranchers are the predominant buyers of crop and grazing land, Dickhut pointed out.

“Cash flow and equity concerns of farmers could generate additional land for sale in the market as some producers liquidate either land or equipment to shore up their finances.

The magnitude of these additional land sales will probably be small and vary

by region, but the potential for an increase in the supply of land on the market bears watching,” he said.

The final factor that could have a downward effect on land values are the outside influences. This could include negative outcomes for trade that U.S. agriculture depends upon, unexpected consequences from tax laws and potential changes in the next Farm Bill.

“The next six months will determine the direction of land values. Eco-

nomic and financial factors will become more evident for producers and lenders.

The factors and the outside influences will become better defined as we move through 2018. Now more than ever, professional advice and representation are critical to receiving a fair market price for agricultural land no matter if values move up or down.

And more and more landowners are putting their trust in Farmers National Company to sell their land,” Dickhut said.

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11

Looking at Kansas and Oklahoma, the land market in Kansas and Oklahoma is slower than normal, reports Paul Schadegg, area sales manager for Farmers National Company. “There is less land for sale than normal and buyers continue to be more cautious in making purchase decisions,” he said.

“Good quality land sells well in most areas whereas lower quality crop or grassland struggles to find buyers,” Schadegg reported. Overall, prices for good quality cropland have remained fairly steady during the past year in these two states while lower quality land may have a harder time selling.

State-Level Farmland Values Farmland values in the middle of the country have faced the most significant pressure. In Kansas and Nebraska, farmland values in 2017 were 12.8 percent and 12.2 percent below 2014 values, according to Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer released in December.

On regular basis, the survey asks respondents about their expectations for farmland prices. For the first time in survey history, more producers said they expect higher farmland values than lower farmland values. Among respondents, 21 percent said they expect farmland values to turn higher in the next 12 months, 62 percent thought values would remain unchanged, and 17 percent expect lower farmland values, Most of the reporting on 2017 farmland values focused on the USDA’s estimate of average cropland values. The national average value of cropland in 2017 was $4,090 per acre, unchanged from 2016 (figure 1). Nationally, cropland values peaked at $4,130 per acre in 2015. Overall, U.S. cropland values have declined less than 1 percent since the 2015 peak.

Of the 41 states with reported values, only 12 reported farmland value declines.

These declines were mostly in the Northern Great Plains and Corn Belt.

In some cases, changes in farmland values for neighboring states can vary greatly.

Farmland in Kansas was down 12.6 percent, but up 16 percent in Oklahoma.

In the Corn Belt, farmland values were lower in Illinois and Indiana, but higher in Kentucky and Wisconsin.

While a lot of attention, including our own work, has focused on the overall difficult agricultural economy, there are states and regions of the country where farmland values have trended upward. This is especially true in the South and West.

Should 2017 farmland values be com-

TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO

Kansas and the Great Plains has been at ground zero when it comes to falling ag land values, but things are moderating.

pared to 2014 – the year net farm income began to decline – or 2015 – the year U.S. average farmland values turned lower? At the state-level, farmland values peaked in 2014 for some, but continued higher for others.

Farmland values in Iowa were sharply lower in 2015, with a modest decline in 2016 and an uptick in 2017. North Dakota and South Dakota, on the other hand, posted sharp increases in 2015 followed by declines in 2016 and 2017.

Farmland values in three of the selected states increased in each of the years considered; Kentucky, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. This was especially true in Wisconsin, which maintained farmland value increases of more than 4 percent in each of the years.

Kansas and Nebraska have experienced the largest declines. South Dakota, where farmland values peaked in 2015, has posted a 10.7 percent decline in just two years. The largest declines have occurred in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa. Not surprisingly,

these five states were identified in our earlier post for having the largest gains in values from 2004 to 2014.

The trend of declining farmland values has been some what isolated. Only 12 states, mostly in the Midwest, have posted lower values since 2014. Elsewhere in the U.S., farmland values have trended higher.

Closer to home But, “the Great Plains (including Kansas) has been ground zero for this farm economy adjustment,” said David Widmar, senior research associate at the Purdue ag center. “Looking at national trends, producers in the Great Plans are facing downturn taking a bigger hit than other parts of the agriculture economy.”

Across the country from almond growers in California to cranberry growers in Maine, farm ground prices have dropped 1 percent since their high in 2015. However, in Kansas, values have fallen 13 percent in the same time period.

“It’s been a difficult adjustment for

producers,” Widmar said. First, net farm income from 2014 to 2017 declined 52 percent. The downward adjustment in net farm income since 2014 has been significant and quick.

In the central Kansas backyard, Kevin Keller of Keller Real Estate in Great Bend said values are off some. “Our area was more heavily impacted,” he said.

“It has softened a lot since the high of about three years ago,” he said, adding this drop is about 30-40 percent. But, “I think it has leveled off.”

But. there are a lot of factors to consider. Prices vary from dry-land property to irrigated, and from pasture to cropland.

Then, there is oil, he said. “It’s been a double whammy with land values.”

Commodity prices are down, along with oil prices, he said. And, there is a lot of crossover between ag production and oil production.

Another thing to look at is the law of supply and demand, Keller said. There is a lot more land on the market now and drives prices down as well.

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12 • GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018

GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 •

13

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Helping the city grow Great Bend Chamber plays important part

BY RUSSELL EDEM redem@gbtribune.com

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development plays an important part of Great Bend’s growth and development and putting jobs within reach of the people of the community.

“I can tell you as a developer in Great Bend, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce plays a huge part with the future of City,” Partner of Overland Property Group Matt Gillam said.

“If was not for Jan Peters putting Great Bend on our radar, we might not of did any developments there. We are so glad that she did and we are very pleased with the development of The Reserves At Trail Ridge apartments.”

One of the main goals of the The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development office is to market and promote the community to people who may want to relocate here of to expand their business.

“We are the first people to be contacted for a project and we follow that project all the way to the end, helping in any way we can to make sure the project runs smoothly,” President of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Jan Peters said.

“There are a lot of moving parts, so we work closely with the people of the community and the developers.”

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development constantly works to be the voice of local business and the visionary advocacy organization for Great Bend and the economic area.

It strives to create a business climate that enhances growth and expansion opportunities for existing businesses, while simultaneously attracting new business. The staff promises to always provide membership opportunities and benefits that offer businesses and members the best value and impact for their investment.

“Over the last 10 years, capital improvements in Great Bend grew to $1.7 million and with that growth 1,300 new jobs were opened. This was done with the support of the community, developers and the The

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development,” Peters said.

Here are some recent projects in the last two years that the The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development played a part in: Great Bend Transload Facility Location: Airport Industrial Park Date Open: June 2017 Project Type: Commercial/ Truck & Rail Facility Size: 100+ Acres Job/Investment: four Full-Time Positions, $7 Million Infrastructure & Capitol Investment Holiday Inn Express Location: 3821 10th Street (10th Street Corridor) Date Open: March 2016 Project Type: Hotel Size: 95 Guest Rooms Job/Investment: nine Jobs, $6 Million Information: The property features 95 guest rooms, indoor salt water pool, guest breakfast lounge, meeting rooms and upgraded contemporary furnishings.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES POSITIONS CURRENTLY OPEN:

RESIDENTIAL SUPPORTS

Full time, Part time, and Sleep over positions available. Do you want a job with flexible hours? Shifts are available around the clock + opportunities for overtime. You can even get PAID TO SLEEP! What a perfect way to work, go to school, or just work part time! All training is provided!

FULL OR PART-TIME RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT

Otis KS. Sunflower Diversified Services is seeking full and part-time support for a client located in Otis, hours M-F 4p-11p and 11p-7a plus 24 hr weekend care with paid training.

Sunflower is one of the largest employers in Barton County serving Adults & Children with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, supporting them in achieving independence.

PART-TIME SUPPORT PERSON

Looking For A Great Job Opportunity?

Are you looking for part-time work in Sterling KS? Sunflower Diversified Services is seeking a part-time support person for a male client, hours during the week 6 to 9 pm and Saturdays from 9 to noon, paid training.

Cashco Inc., a progressive valve manufacturer is always looking for qualified candidates to fill our positions.

FULL-TIME AWAKE OVERNIGHT SUPPORT

Full-time Awake Overnight position with flexibility supporting clients with intellectual & developmental disabilities. Excellent benefits package, generous PTO, paid training & bonus’ available.

For information contact: Ellen Kempke, Personnel 785-472-4461, ext. 177

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER

Sunflower Early Education Center (EEC) is seeking applications for an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher to work with children from birth to three years old with developmental disabilities or delays. Sunflower EEC is a local tiny-K network for the State of Kansas, whose staff provides services to children across Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Stafford and Rush counties. The ECSE Teacher will work as part of a team conducting evaluations, program planning, and caregiver coaching in children’s homes, childcare settings and other community locations. Applications will be taken until position is filled. For more information about this position, please contact Heather QuillinSunflower EEC Coordinator- at hquillin@sunflowerdiv.com or 620-792-4087.

To apply for current opportunities visit us online at www.cashco.com or Applications available in our lobby 607 W. 15th, Ellsworth, KS

To learn more about a career with Sunflower Diversified Services, please call 620-792-1321 or stop by to pick up an application at 8823 4th Street or 1521 K-96. Rewarding work - good pay - great benefits.

See our website at www.sunflowerdiv.com EOE

EEO/AAD/ADA Employer

NOW HIRING • Estamos contratando • Now Hiring • ESTAMOS CONTRATANDO

Now Hiring: ALL POSITIONS ALL SHIFTS

NOW HIRING 2006 Main 4101 10th St. Apply online @

www.jobs.pizzahut.com

Seeking qualified applicants for our operations department.

Experience in manufacturing facility or industrial plant is preferred but not required. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Dependable people with a solid work background are encouraged to attend. Competitive wages and benefits.

Applications found online at www.kansasethanol.net. EOE. OPEN INTERVIEWS Monday, February 26th 9:00am-12:00pm Celebration Centre 1145 E. Hwy 56, Lyons, KS

P & S Electric is expanding again!

WE ARE LOOKING FOR QUALIFIED

JOURNEYMEN, & LABORERS P & S offers competitive wages, health, dental & life insurance, 401(k), paid holidays and vacation. Must pass background check, drug testing and have clean driving record.

Are you looking for a stable job with a company in business 29 years? Apply Now! Please send resume to office@ps-electric.com or drop off resume at P & S Security, 1705 K96 Hwy Great Bend.

OUR EMPLOYERS WEAR MANY HATS

Browse Jobs in Different Fields from one convenient website www.gbtribune.com

3607 W. 10th St. Great Bend

Looking for dependable, friendly, customer focused employees with smiling faces and a strong work ethic.

We Offer: Competitive Pay (PSOR\HH %HQH¿WV Positive Work Environment Apply at: TBAmericajobs.com Equal Opportunity Employer

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COOK FOR OUR KITCHEN t 'VMM PS 1BSU 5JNF t (SFBU #FOFmUT t $PNQFUJUJWF 1BZ t 7BDBUJPO 1BZ "WBJMBCMF Apply in Person: 22920 10th St. Great Bend 620-792-8700 An EEOC Employer

GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 •

CONSIDERING A CAREER IN INSURANCE SALES? American Family Insurance is seeking highly motivated, customer-focused individuals to represent our products as a sales specialist. As employee of an Agency Owner, you’ll help customers understand their insurance needs, and match them with appropriate products and services.

Additionally, you’ll help promote the agent’s ofďŹ ce and company brand by participating in agency and community events.

ECMC is currently accepting applications for ...

1604 Aylward Ave., Ellsworth, KS 67439

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS ECMC is seeking strong professional candidates for Nursing, Rural Health Clinic, Laboratory Services, and Information Technology Departments

To get started protecting others’ dreams and pursuing your own, send your resume to: aroberts@amfam.com.

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance, 6000 American Parkway, Madison WI 53783 010332 3/2017 Š2017

CHECK OUT

GREAT BEND

Time for a

NEW JOB?

gb tribune.com

,I TXDOLÂżHG DQG looking for a great place to work, check out the full descriptions of our openings and apply online at: www.ewmed.com ECMC is an EOE

ENTURE GREAT BEND, KANSAS

ASPHALT GRADING CONCRETE

ORPORATION

NOW HIRING Venture Corporation is now taking applications for:

FAMILY PRESERVATION/ ADOPTION/ REINTEGRATION

CDL Class A & B Drivers Mechanics Equipment Operators Laborers Flaggers

See our website www.sfcscareers.org for information.

Venture Corporation offers competitive pay, health insurance and 401k.

GREAT BEND

Saint Francis is looking for dedicated, passionate employees who want to help protect children and strengthen families.

15

Must be 21 years of age, have a valid KS driver’s license & pass background checks.

Submit resume to melanie.gross@st-francis.org or visit our website: www.sfcscareers.org. EOE.

HELP WANTED The City of Great Bend is accepting applications for: Seasonal Positions: CROSSING GUARDS/POLICE DEPARTMENT Primary responsibilities include assisting school children in safely crossing streets or highways at designated areas throughout the city while school is in session. Hours may vary slightly, but will generally consist of approximately one hour before school begins in the morning, and one hour after school is dismissed in the afternoon. Candidates should be at least 18 years of age. Will require working in all types of weather conditions.

Full-Time Employment: SERVICE PERSON I - CEMETERY Primary responsibilities include duties related to the care and maintenance of Great Bend cemetery locations.

This position will perform general grounds maintenance, assist in burial preparations which include opening and closing of graves using heavy equipment such as trucks, tractors and backhoes, mowing and trimming using equipment such as sod cutters and lawn care equipment, performing janitorial duties such as trash collection and ofďŹ ce cleaning, and other duties as required. Candidates should be at least 18 years of age.

Will require working in all types of weather conditions.

POLICE OFFICER/POLICE DEPARTMENT Primary responsibilities include patrol work, assisting with the prevention of crime and the enforcement of trafďŹ c laws and regulations. All aspects of police work will be involved, including responding to dispatches, investigations, report preparation, making arrests, issuing citations, etc. Successful candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and must be at least 21 years of age. Some college level work in law enforcement is desirable. In addition, candidate must possess a valid driver’s license and the ability to achieve basic law enforcement certiďŹ cation by the State of Kansas within one year of appointment. Applicants will be subject to written and physical agility tests, an oral interview, a thorough background check, and additional conditional job testing. Applicants must not have any Brady/Giglio material in their background that would make them ineligible for hiring. Shift schedules will include some weekends, holidays, court appearances and overtime.

FIREFIGHTER-EMT, PARAMEDIC/FIRE DEPARTMENT Primary responsibilities include ďŹ re protection and EMS response/transport. Applicants will operate ďŹ re ďŹ ghting and ambulance equipment and participate in ďŹ re prevention programs, public education and ďŹ re inspections. Applicants will also make ambulance and rescue runs and be responsible for station maintenance and training activities. This position requires a thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of equipment and principles of ďŹ re science, EMS, and department operations. It also requires the ability to follow written and oral instructions, read and understand technical manuals, effectively communicate with co-workers, supervisors, and the general public, and exercise independent judgment. Successful candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and be 18 years of age or older. In addition, applicants must possess a valid Kansas driver’s license and EMT certiďŹ cation prior to hire. We will accept either C.P.A.T. or applicant will be subject to in-house physical agility and Fire Team written test. The City of Great Bend offers a competitive salary and beneďŹ t package, including health and dental insurance, 401 retirement, paid vacation and sick leave, exible beneďŹ ts plan, etc.

SHOP MECHANIC ASSISTANT/PUBLIC WORKS Under the direction of the Shop Mechanic and Street Superintendent, this position will perform mechanical work on a variety of vehicles and machinery. This is an hourly position and drug testing is required. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. At least two years experience in automotive service and mechanical work with gas and diesel powered equipment is preferred.

SERVICE PERSON I/WPC DEPARTMENT (WATER POLLUTION CONTROL) Primary responsibilities include skilled and semi-skilled duties related to the operation and maintenance of the wastewater collection system. This position requires the ability to perform duties such as the cleaning and rehabilitation of sewer lines, utility locates, operation of water tank trucks, water jet cleaners, pumps, and generators, works with the public regarding sewer stoppage complaints, etc. Also assists in performing pump station inspections and maintenance. Position requires working outdoors and involves occasional heavy physical activity. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Some experience in construction work including the operation of equipment is preferred. Position requires a valid Kansas CDL or the ability to obtain a CDL within a speciďŹ ed time frame.

Applications can be submitted using the “Online City Application� link found on the Employment Opportunities page at

www.greatbendks.net.

Apply at: Venture Corporation, 214 S. Hwy 281, Great Bend, KS, call Dean at 620-792-5921 or send resume to dean@venturec.kscoxmail.com.

Equal employment opportunity, women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

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HELP WANTED

t 0# 1&%4 /VSTF 4VQFSWJTPS t 3/ "MM QPTJUJPOT 'VMM 5JNF %BZT BOE /JHIUT t 0# (:/ 1&%4 /VSTF 'VMM 5JNF t 1IZTJDJBO "TTJTUBOU "EWBODFE 1SBDUJDF 3FHJTUFSFE /VSTF 'VMM 5JNF t $MJOJD 3/ -1/ t .FE 4VSH -1/ 'VMM 5JNF %BZT BOE /JHIUT PS -1/ %BZT t 5SJBHF 13/ /JHIUT t $/" .FE 4VSH 'VMM 5JNF /JHIUT GBRH is a 33 bed, physician owned hospital in central Kansas, delivering 250 babies per year with 2 doctors delivering babies, 3 pediatricians and a host of other medical professionals.

For complete list of job responsibilities refer to the responsibility outline. You can request a copy from HR Manager or you’ll be given one upon further inquiry.

1MFBTF BQQMZ POMJOF PS DPNF UP $MFWFMBOE 4USFFU Great Bend Regional Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer

REGIONAL HOSPITAL A Physician Owned Hospital

620-792-8833

514 Cleveland Street | Great Bend

www.gbregional.com

Complete Line of Exterior Construction Including Windows and Doors

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Free Inspections and Estimates!

YOUR FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS Quality Work. A+ BBB Accredited.

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9am-6pm Mon-Fri r 9am-5pm Sat

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10th & Morton Street Great Bend, KS 9am-6pm pm Mon-Fri r 9am9am-5pm Sat

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10th & Morton Street Great Bend, KS

Concrete

EAKIN READY MIX LARNED READY MIX EAKIN SAND & GRAVEL www.eakinenterprises.com

620-285-2097

Licensed and Insured

E akin Enterprises, Inc.

A Family-Owned Business Since 1950

Furniture and Bedding

80 East 10th St. Great Bend 620-793-7970

Traeger Wood Pellet Grills Saber Gas Grills & BBQ Primo Ceramic Grills Accessories

Vinyl, Chainlink, Ornamental, Aluminum & Iron

Fencing

Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

620-792-PANS 620-617-4780 (Cell) texts welcome

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Our Phone, Internet AND People are...

Broadband & Technology

Appliances

16 • GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018