Welcome to McPherson!
Six years ago nearly to the day, I started a brand new adventure. After living in the same community and working with the same company for nearly two decades, I have to admit that I was a little terrified of what McPherson had in store for me in a new public service role.
Those fears quickly were laid to rest. I couldn’t have picked a better time to be welcomed into a new community. And McPherson and McPherson County keep proving that fact year in and year out. You see, one of my first experiences here came at the end of my first full week — with the annual All Schools Day celebration.
And what an experience it was. I thought if this is the kind of effort, celebration of togetherness and all-out good time that keeps on going, then I had certainly found a great place to call home.
I still feel that way today. The effort and pride that goes into this event from so many people and so many angles serves as a shining example of what McPherson stands for and of what this community is capable.
So enjoy the parade. Enjoy the May Fete. Enjoy the madathon. Eat a pronto pup or some loaded nachos. Enjoy the concert. Enjoy the beer garden. Enjoy the fireworks. But most importantly, take the time to soak in the memories being made with the community surrounding you. Take it all in and love every moment of it.
And if you have the opportunity, take the time to thank the first responders out and about that — while they are having a good time as well — are there to make sure the thousands on hand can enjoy our freedoms safely.
And if you know a volunteer who helped organize the festivities, give them a special thank you. Also, check out www.allschoolsday.com to make sure you get to all the events you want to attend. Can't make the parade, it will be broadcast online. What a nice touch.
Nick McQueen is the event manager of the McPherson Community Building and the Public Information Coordinator for the City of McPherson.
Fire Station 2 up and running
In case anyone needs more evidence of the continued growth in the McPherson community, check out the latest project completed for the City of McPherson.
In early April, the McPherson Fire Department celebrated the opening of Fire Station No. 2 at 1705 North Main Street with a ribbon cutting and open house at its second service location.
With call response times in mind and a continued effort to expand north, Fire Station No. 2 was a critical step in the process.
Including the planning period, purchasing land and the construction, the project lasted about two years and totaled just under $4.5 million with funding from various sources. The project began under former Fire Chief TJ Wyssman with Chief Chad Mayberry taking over in 2024.
Hutton Construction was the lead contractor while Hedlund Electric provided all the electrical work in the modernized facility. It’s complete with amenities enabling a “dirty to clean” philosophy, separating potential contaminants from living quarters.
Many of the items for the facility also were purchased locally with appliances and furniture purchased from Mattress Haven and concrete from Ratzlaff and McPherson Concrete.
In addition, the City’s street department provided much of the concrete work and the City’s park department will plant grass in the yard this spring.
In addition, a sense of pride and history rests in the front room of the new station. The 1928 American LaFrance, restored completely by community donations, sits in a glass-encased tribute that looks even more exceptional at night.
The add-on also was funded by donations to the tune of $300,000 — part of the final price tag.
The station will house three firefighters per shift with the department shifting from six personnel to seven, a change scheduled to happen before the new station was built. Four firefighters will work per shift at Station 1 with three at Station 2.
The new station also was stocked with existing equipment from Station 1. Three of the departments trucks are due for replacement in the coming years, including two new brush trucks this year and an Engine 1 replacement in 2028.
Traffic update
The McPherson Police Department puts out an update of all traffic and crowd control measures in place for the upcoming All Schools Day event and parade.
Take the time to know which roads are accessible and plan your route downtown accordingly — and be safe.
The best time to plant a tree
Dubbed a “Tree City USA” for 47 years, the City of McPherson Park Department has a long-standing tradition in regards to its Arbor Day celebration.
Every year, park department staff works with local elementary school fifth-grade classes to promote learning about the benefits of trees in our parks and our community.
City staff encourages classes to participate in the Arbor Day Foundation and Kansas Forest Service’s Tree Poster Contest.
Teachers are provided with lesson materials to use in their curriculum and students are asked to create a tree poster.
Local posters are then judged by City staff and the City of McPherson Tree/Park Board. The winner is then sent to the Southeast Kansas District.
This year’s local poster winner, Hadley Fischer from Eisenhower Elementary, won big. Fischer’s poster following the theme “Kansas trees are terrific in cities, towns and communities” was the district winner and then earned the nod as the state’s best poster.
Being the local winner, Fischer’s class was invited to participate in the park department’s tree planting on Arbor Day (April 25).
Students learned various facts about trees from the Park/Tree Board, then helped City staff this year plant a Shumard Oak near the newly-constructed Lakeside Shelter No. 3 near the playground.
As the tradition continues, students learned the answer “When is the best time to plant a tree?” The answer is 20 years ago….and today.
City receives solid rating
McPHERSON — The City of McPherson was interviewed by the S&P Global Ratings agency on March 24, 2025, relative to the upcoming issuance of the Series 142 of 2025 GO Bonds. This Series is $3.3 million in GO Bonds that will finance the Turkey Creek Golf Course Irrigation project and the Veranda West Paving and Sanitary Sewer Improvement District. After providing multiple source documents to the rating agency, the City promptly received the results of the review.
On April 1, 2025, the City of McPherson received notice from S&P that the City was able to retain a rating of “AA- Stable.” The rating system looks at seven key weighted factors in determining a final rating. These factors include institutional framework, economy, management, budgetary flexibility, budgetary performance, liquidity and debt and contingent liabilities. According to S&P, the City of McPherson was either strong or very strong in the areas of financial management practices, budgetary flexibility, liquidity, budgetary performance and institutional framework.
The news is positive for the City of McPherson as borrowing capabilities and favorability of future bond interest rates are directly tied to the City’s credit rating. Considering recent rating downgrades and low ratings in several government sectors and agencies, the rating indicates that the economy, finances and financial management practices of the City of McPherson have been looked at as favorable as it considers all weighted rating factors.
Maintaining this favorable rating affirms that McPherson is looked at as a positive, low-risk entity when it comes to investors interested in buying municipal bonds. Maintaining a high credit rating means McPherson will continue to receive favorable interest rates and steady continued borrowing capabilities. Through strong debt management policy, sound borrowing procedures, and continued high credit ratings, the City has been able to reduce the pressure on Ad Valorem tax rates for the citizens of McPherson.
Questions can be directed to Richard Miller, Finance Director, at (620) 245-2535 or by email at richardm@mcpcity.com.
Big changes for 35th year at Turkey Creek
Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025, there have been significant changes at Turkey Creek Golf Course within the last few months.
Most notably, installation wrapped up in April on a new valve-in-head irrigation system, a move that will help eliminate costly and time-consuming repairs that have taken place during the last several years.
Golf Courses superintendent Jason Buschbom said more than 70 leaks had been fixed in the year prior. The new system will go a long way in eliminating that need for constant repair.
In addition, a valve-in-head system allows for more control of water used. Each head can be controlled as its own rather than relying on an entire section to help balance water usage across the course.
The new system also included a new pump with some needed upgrades to the pump house as well. One of the main features of the new pump is the ability to filter water, cutting down on materials that might plug up sprinkler lines.
Along the same line, a new retaining wall was set up for the pond near No. 9 green. The old wall had fallen in disrepair with the new one giving a more sleek look. Golf course staff also removed some trees and the old bridge across the water, cleaning up the area.
Crews also replaced a safety hazard, rebuilding the bridge on No. 13. The bridge had been falling apart for years, so staff removed the 8x10 timbers and replaced them with four 12x12 timbers, providing a more sturdy structure.
TCGC also welcomes a new fleet of golf carts in 2025. The new carts are highlighted by their GPS and digital display ability. TCGC staff can utilize the GPS for noteworthy items on the course and can control where the carts have the ability to drive.
In order to make room, the course also will see a new cart shelter built in the coming weeks. The dirt work is done and once concrete is poured, a new shelter will go up that will not only be storage for the new carts, but also rented out to members for storage of their private carts.
The existing cart shed also is scheduled for some simultaneous aesthetic upgrades.
All the while, new clubhouse manager Collin Duckworth has numerous promotions lined up for the course’s 35th anniversary. The course also will host the Class 4A boys’ regional tournament and the Class 2A state tournament later this month.
Keep an eye on golfturkeycreek.com or follow Turkey Creek Golf Course on social media for updates throughout 2025.
Project updates
Splash pad free for all
Changes to the McPherson Water Park’s splash pad area are well underway. The goal is to make the splash pad area free for anyone to utilize without having to pay entry fees into the water park’s main pool and lazy river. Fencing has been removed with the new fence currently being constructed. The Water Park splash pad also will get three new features and is still on the schedule in May to be painted.
Pickleball courts
While the new eight-court pickleball complex is being heavily utilized, the outside of the fence is in need of some upgrades. With a continued partnership with the McPherson Recreation Commission, the south side of the courts will have some new landscaping. Work on that is scheduled to being May 7. McPherson Park Department staff also is looking to the possibility of landscape work to the east of the courts.
New irrigation at Hess Park
Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous community member, Hess Park now has irrigation options. This will make it easier to plant new trees in the park with some plans to upgrade shelters and possibly add restrooms in the future.
Shelter No. 4 on the way
The concrete has been poured for the replacement of Lakeside Park Shelter No. 4. The only thing left is the structure, which is scheduled to ship May 15. Shelter No. 4 is in the open area on the west side of the Park, directly across from Washington Elementary School.
Elm Street Drainage (Euclid Extension)
Work continues east of Main Street on Euclid Street and the intersection of Maple Street and Euclid should be open in time for All Schools Day traffic. The project likely won’t be complete by that time as contractors ran into slight delays in the alley inlet on the north side of Euclid Street. That project is a vital step in the continued downtown drainage improvements.
Sycamore subdivision
The complete reconstruction of streets in the Sycamore Subdivision is nearing the final stages. The firsts of the final stretch from Cottonwood to Avenue B is complete with the second half scheduled to begin May 7. This is the final stretch of street to be reconstructed and the entire subdivision is scheduled for an overlay later this year.
Welcome to the team
The City of McPherson welcomed one new full-time employee and numerous seasonal/temporary employees during the month of April. Welcome everyone and thank you for dedicating your professional lives to public service.
New full-time hire in April
Matthew Musser, Animal Shelter Technician.
Odds/Ends
Leadership McPherson
Congratulations to all the graduates of the 2025 Leadership McPherson Class offered by the McPherson Chamber of Commerce. Three representatives from the City completed the course. Katie Krier, administrative assistant with the CVB and Community Building, Captain Ryan Bauer with the McPherson Police Department and Heather Reissig with the Municipal Court, participated in the class. T
The class celebrated with a luncheon at the McPherson Opera House on April 23 and presented their class project aimed at providing dental service to underserved youth in the McPherson area. Well done class.
Drug take back day
The City of McPherson Police Department helped organize the local collection for DEA Drug Take Back Day on April 26. The program is aimed at safely collecting unused or unwanted prescription drugs. In partnership with the McPherson County Sheriff’s Office, School Resource Office Brady Winkler helped collect two full boxes of unneeded medications to be disposed of. Job well done.
Let's go fishing
Make plans now to compete in the annual Fishing Derby, which returns to Lakeside Park in 2025. Spend part of Father's Day weekend competing for prizes with the best catch. Click here to register.
Meet Tucker
Tucker is a labrador available for adoption at the McPherson Animal Shelter, one of two dogs as of April 28. Be sure and check out pets available for adoption page regularly if you're looking to give a pup a forever home. Did you know? The staff at the McPherson Animal Shelter regularly gives incoming a dogs a new name? When pups get a second chance at a life with you, that means they should have a suitable name for their personality. It's just one of the many personal touches the animal shelter staff adds.
Featured program
The City of McPherson Park Department's Memorial Tree & Bench program let's you plant a memory in one of the City's parks — whether it be a tree or bench. Each memorial is accompanied by a plaque, like the one pictured above.
“Thank you so very much for making this happen for us!!! My youngest is actually moving back to Mac and he mentioned how it’ll be good to go and visit this bench ❤️. You’ve made it such a beautiful space. I love how it’s right under the lamppost, too.”
Click here for more information.
Travel & Tourism Week
Join the McPherson Convention & Visitors Bureau for a week of activities dedicated to celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week. The CVB will give out free donuts and coffee Monday, May 5, from 10 to Noon at the McPherson Museum and will host a free Bingo activity from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday May 6 at the McPherson Community Building.
That Wednesday, the CVB is hosting free Story Time aboard the McPherson trolley with a special treat for those on board. The trolley will leave every 30 minutes from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. from the McPherson Museum Parking lot, 1111 E. Kansas Avenue. On Thursday, May 8, the CVB will supply chalk to draw on the sidewalk in front of the museum from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Friday, May 9, is All Schools Day. The CVB wants to extend a warm welcome to everyone in attendance. Don't forget that at 2 p.m., the McPherson Museum will have homemade ice cream available with a free will donation or free with the All Schools Day button.
On the horizon
Dates to look for in May
May 3 — Central Christian College Commencement. The Tigers’ commencement takes place at Pyle South Gym at 2 p.m.
May 5-9 - National Travel & Tourism Week. Be sure and follow the McPherson CVB for details as the week goes on. Celebrate everything tourism.
May 9 — All Schools Day. The annual parade capping a week of celebration of the county’s schools. Thousands of people line Main Street for the parade, taking part in activities around town and munching on great eats from food trucks on the plaza. Some years, the community doubles and nearly triples in size.
May 10 — McPherson College Commencement Ceremony. McPherson Stadium will open at 9:30 a.m. for the annual ceremony with a backup location inside Brown Auditorium if necessary.
May 11 — Mother’s Day. Now’s the time to honor thy mother. Whether it be with flowers, some chocolates, a hug or just a memory, put some extra emphasis on mom today.
May 14&15 — Peace Officer Memorial. The annual day of observance and part of Police Week pays tribute to local, state and federal peace officers who have died or been disabled int he line of duty. The scheduled day is May 15. The McPherson Police Department will host its memorial the eventing before — May 14 — at the McPherson Community Building, then participate in its annual memorial service May 15 at the McPherson Cemetery.
May 17 — McPherson High School graduation. The annual commencement will take place at 7 p.m. in the roundhouse at McPherson High School.
May 22 — The McPherson Public Library’s Summer Kickoff Party with bounce houses, karaoke and much more. It coincides with the final day of school for the year for McPherson USD 418.
Credits:
Created with images by tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • tortoon - "panorama of white brick wall background and texture" • michael - "May 2025 calendar taken from a side angled view"