 Celebrating our 2026 Employees of the Year
At last week's City Employee Conference, we recognized three outstanding employees who consistently go above and beyond in their work, support their coworkers, and make a difference in our community.
Bethany Charlsen – As a victim coordinator, Bethany provides compassionate support and advocacy for crime victims. Her dedication to victims' rights, domestic violence education, and collaboration across departments has made a lasting impact.
Stan Kurtz – As a Police warrant officer, Stan leads with kindness and compassion. Whether supporting coworkers through difficult times or connecting with residents during bike patrols, he demonstrates the importance of serving others.
Patrick Batemon – At the Newton City/County Airport, Patrick is known for his exceptional work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to step up when teammates need support. His dedication helps keep the airport safe and running smoothly.
These three employees exemplify the City's servant leadership values and remind us that making a difference often starts with simply caring about others.
Congratulations to Bethany, Patrick, and Stan on this well-deserved recognition!
City snow and ice control route expanded
The City of Newton has expanded its Snow & Ice Control Route to support continued industrial growth and improve winter travel safety around local schools.
The updated route includes additional streets near school zones that will receive salt treatment during winter storms, along with streets serving the east-side industrial area.
Thanks to our Engineering team, the updated snow route is now available as a layer on the City's Public Map, making it easier to see which streets are included.
The Snow & Ice Control Route prioritizes the central business district, major roads and most collector streets, helping maintain safe travel for emergency responders and providing cleared routes within a few blocks of residential areas.
Fall tree coupons still available
Thinking of planting a tree this Fall and looking to save a little on the cost? The City can help with that!
- Save 50% on the cost of a tree (up to $75)
- Pick up your coupon at City Hall, 3rd-floor reception desk -If you thought about it but have not made the decision yet, come on by
- The program ends November 30 or while supplies last!
Participating business include: Stone Creek Nursery, Esch Landscaping, Sha-na-kee, and Prairie Fire Farm.
Not sure which tree to choose? Explore the Kansas Forest Service’s approved tree list.
City Hall the place to go to set up a Utilities account
Getting settled into the City’s new utility billing platform and have a few questions? Or looking to start new service with the City of Newton? We’re happy to help!
Whether you need help setting up your new account, have questions about billing, or aren’t sure where to start, our team is ready to assist. Just remember, in-person help is available at City Hall, not the Service Center off Kansas Avenue.
Visit www.newtonkansas.com/pay to get started or to set up your new City utility billing account!
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 Newton Fire/EMS conducts trench rescue training
Newton Fire/EMS recently completed a simulated trench rescue training exercise on West First Street, bringing together emergency responders and community partners to practice the coordination, communication and specialized skills needed during a trench emergency.
The exercise provided an opportunity for crews to work through a realistic rescue scenario, strengthen teamwork and practice the techniques needed to respond to complex incidents. While the exercise was simulated, the skills and preparation are essential to helping responders work safely and effectively when real emergencies occur.
A big thank-you to the McPherson Fire Department Heavy Rescue Team, Eagle Med Air Ambulance, Accel Construction and Graber Backhoe for partnering with Newton Fire/EMS and helping make this valuable training possible.
 City Desk connects with community at The Table
The City of Newton enjoyed connecting with residents during Wednesday evening’s community meal at The Table.
Conversations covered a variety of topics, including the new utility billing platform, policing questions with our Chief of Police, park improvements, and community resources. We also shared parks and trails maps and helped residents find the City’s centralized event guide to stay informed about upcoming activities.
Of course, community engagement includes a little fun, too! We even had the chance to put our tic-tac-toe skills to the test during a few friendly games with a young community member.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by to ask questions, share feedback, pick up resources, or simply say hello. These conversations help us stay connected to the people we serve, and we appreciate every opportunity to meet residents where they are!
 Newton included on KPTS's "See Taste Do" travel show
Newton's episode of the popular KPTS travel show “See Taste Do” will air again this Sunday. The show highlights historic landmarks, local flavors, and unique roadside or community experiences across small towns and cities in Kansas.
Newton’s episode features Gallery Mostaza, Back Alley Pizza, and the Kauffman Museum. Check it out:
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Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1:30 p.m. on channel 8.1 and later that night at 6 p.m. on channel 8.2
Newton Police launch winter coat drive
The Newton Police Department is gearing up to help keep local kids warm this winter! They're collecting new or gently used coats for local children from preschool through high school age.
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Drop-off location: Newton Police Department lobby
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When: Oct. 19 through the end of November
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Drop-off hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Can’t make it to the PD because of transportation or mobility challenges? Contact us at 316-284-6030 so we can help make arrangements!
Every coat makes a difference! Let’s work together to keep Newton’s kids warm this winter.
Prescription Drug Take Back Day next week
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is coming up Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a great opportunity to safely dispose of prescription medications you no longer need or use. If you’re a caregiver, take a few minutes to help a loved one go through their medications and identify anything that should be disposed of.
Bring unwanted medications to the Harvey County Law Enforcement Center, 120 E. 7th St., on Saturday, Oct. 24, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Proper disposal helps keep medications out of the wrong hands and out of our community’s water supply.
Upcoming Events
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ARToberfest, 5:30-8 p.m., Oct. 24 at Carriage Factory Art Gallery. Live music, live artist throwdown, food, and fun!
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Warkentin House Flashlight Tour, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at the Warkentin House. Guests will visit 5 rooms and hear true tales, superstitions, and weird traditions about death in the Victorian age.
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2026 Halloween Walk, 5:30-7 p.m. Oct. 31 in downtown Newton. Join thousands of Newton kids for trick-or-treating in a safe and trusted environment.
Halloween Event Guide
See all of the upcoming events on our Community Events calendar on Choose-Newton.com.
Meetings & Reminders:
- 7 p.m. Oct. 27 – City Commission meeting
- 6 p.m. Nov. 2
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