Western Kansas Report

Western Kansas Report

A man wanted for stabbing a woman in her chest turns himself in to authorities.

Brian Olivares, 28, of Garden City was arrested for aggravated battery for his actions last Saturday. Olivares stabbed the woman then fled the scene before sheriff deputies could get there. The woman was taken to St. Catherine’s Hospital and is recovering from her wounds. Olivares is being held at the Finney County Jail.

Electric Company Hopes To Increase Rates

A Western Kansas electric company awaits to hear what people think of their request to raise electric rates. Mid-Kansas Electric Company in Hays is seeking a 12% rate increase for over 50,000 customers. The increase would generate $16.4 million a year for the company.

Officials say they need the additional revenue to keep pace with their operating costs. A public comment session is scheduled for Wednesday night in Liberal. Video hookups will also be available in Dighton and Dodge City. State regulators have until February to rule on the request.

Stanton County Superintendent Gets Suspended

A local superintendent is forced to take a leave of absence.

The Stanton County school board voted 6-1 to suspend Susan Scherling with pay. It’s unsure why Scherling was put on suspension or for how long. On Thursday the board will interview at least one candidate to serve as interim superintendent.

Dentist Shortage Could Become Major Problem

Residents of Western Kansas may soon have a difficult time finding a dentist. The state health department predicts a shortage of dentists in rural Kansas will get worse in three to five years.

A new report says 91 out of 105 counties in Kansas has a dental shortage, including nearly all of Western Kansas. One major factor contributing to the problem is that Kansas does not have a dental school. The closest ones are in Denver, Oklahoma City, Lincoln, and Kansas City, MO.

Classroom Renovation Necessary To Create More Space For Students

Things are getting a little crowded at Wiley Elementary in Holcomb, so the school district is renovating an older classroom to allow for more space.

The north wing of Holcomb Elementary School, which sits across from Wiley, has been vacant since 2002. One of the empty classrooms will be modernized at a cost of $16,000. It will serve as the art room, which is currently in Wiley.

more of a issue. Holcomb Elementary makes some renovations to a classroom to free up space in another building.