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Accessibility and ADA Compliance

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1. What is ADA?

The Americans with Disability Act of 1990 is built upon the foundation laid by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.  The ADA is a civil rights laws that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The ADA consists of five titles: Title I, Title II, Title III, Title IV, Title V.

2. What is Title I?

Title I prohibits disability discrimination in employment. 

Disability discrimination under Title I (Employment) and Title III (Public Accommodations) may be filed with the Community Housing/ADA Coordinator under Chapter 13, Article II of the code of the City of Emporia, Ks if the act occurred within the City of Emporia. If you believe you have been discriminated by an employer or by a public accommodation, please submit application here *insert link*. Complaints outside of City of Emporia may be filed through the Kansas Human Rights Commission (Link).

3. What is Title II?

Title II prohibits discrimination by state and local governments and requires that the government ensures all facilities, services and information provided are accessible to persons with disabilities.

Title II (local government access) concerns may be filed with the City of Emporia’s Community Housing/ADA Coordinator, Brandi Galbreath (link). The City of Emporia is committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to City services, programs, activities and facilities. 

4. What is Title III?

Title III prohibits disability discrimination in public accommodations or businesses that offer goods or services, including hotels, restaurants, bars, swimming pools, transportation companies, and stores.

Disability discrimination under Title I (Employment) and Title III (Public Accommodations) may be filed with the Community Housing/ADA Coordinator under Chapter 13, Article II of the code of the City of Emporia, Ks if the act occurred within the City of Emporia. If you believe you have been discriminated by an employer or by a public accommodation, please submit application here *insert link*. Complaints outside of City of Emporia may be filed through the Kansas Human Rights Commission (Link).

5. What is Title IV?

Title IV prohibits discrimination in telecommunications.

6. What is Title IV?

Title V contains provisions clarifying the relationship of ADA to other laws and addressing issues such as health insurance. Enforcement of the ADA is the responsibility of the U.S. Department of Justice.

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Crime Stoppers

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1. What is Crime Stoppers?

Lyon County Crime Stoppers is a non-profit organization that works to provide anonymous tips to Law Enforcement through various means. Crime Stoppers is overseen by a civilian board that cooperates with Law Enforcement Coordinators to distribute tips that are submitted and rewards to the public.

2. How do I remain anonymous?

You can contact Lyon County Crime Stoppers four different ways.

1. Call 620-342-2273. A trained staff member of a Crime Stoppers call center will talk to you and take the information for your tip. The call center does not have the ability to monitor phone numbers and they will not ask for personal information.
2. New: Submit a tip on the web. P3 forwards the tip information to local Law Enforcement. P3 software does not track personal information.
3. New: Submit a tip via the P3 smartphone application. This software forwards the tip to local Law Enforcement. P3 software does not track personal information.
4. New: Go to the Lyon County Crime Stoppers Facebook page and select "submit a tip". That link leads to the P3 tip website.

3. Is there a reward for calling?

Cash rewards are paid on tips that help solve a crime or that result in the arrest of a wanted person. Rewards are determined by the Crime Stoppers Board of Directors and vary based on the crime. Cash rewards of up to $1,000 are paid by non-law enforcement personnel through a “coded” exchange to protect your identity.

4. Can a minor call?

Of course! There is no age restriction on anyone calling. However, there are Crime Stoppers programs at the Emporia High School (EHS), which may be more comfortable for students to call. You can reach the EHS Crime Stoppers at 341-CEHS.

5. Who benefits?

Everyone! Your community and neighborhood becomes a safer place to live. Young and old can show responsibility without the rear of retaliation. Crimes that have frustrated victims and officers have a better chance of being solved when we all work together.

6. How effective is crime stoppers?

Since the beginning of Lyon County Crime Stoppers in 1986, nearly 300 warrants have been issued and over 600 cases solved; more than $405,000 in property recovered; nearly $700,00 of property damage cleared; and over $1,000,000 of narcotics taken off our streets.

7. Do tax dollars support crime stoppers?

No. Lyon County Crime Stoppers is supported through donations from businesses, service organizations, corporations, fund-raisers and your personal contributions.

8. Can I help?

Yes! Tell your friends, family and neighbors about Crime Stoppers. Invest in a safer community. Your contributions are greatly appreciated!

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Fire Department - Smoking Ban

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1. How will the Statewide Smoking Ban affect the local Smoking Ordinance?

Where local clean indoor air laws have provisions stricter than the state law, these local provision will prevail. Where local laws have provisions less strict than the State law, State law provisions will prevail effective July 1, 2010.

2. What does the smoking ban cover?

Smoking is prohibited in all places of employment, restaurants, bars, hotels/motels and within 10 feet of any doorway, open window and air intake of establishments where smoking is prohibited.

3. When does the Statewide Smoking Ban go into effect?

The Statewide Smoking Ban goes into effect on July 1, 2010.

4. Is smoking allowed in private offices or break rooms?

No, smoking is not allowed in private offices or break rooms.

5. Can a hotel/motel have "smoking" rooms?

 No, the ordinance prohibits smoking in hotels and motels. No provision is made for smoking rooms.

6. Does this affect day care homes?

Yes. While smoking is already prohibited in day care homes when children not related to the owner are present, the Indoor Clean Air Act adds an additional penalty for violators. In addition to any civil fine which may be levied, any day care home that violates any provision of this act may also be subject to criminal punishment.

7. I own a business, and I have never allowed smoking. Do I still have to put up a "No Smoking" sign?

Yes, the ordinance requires that every business and every place of employment post a "No Smoking" sign at every main entrance.

8. If I call in a smoking complaint as the manager of a business, will I be liable for a fine?

It depends. The ordinance requires the owner, manager or operator of a business or place of employment to enforce the ordinance. If you have made no attempt of enforcement, you may be subject to a fine. On the other hand, if you have attempted enforcement and the smoker will not comply and you call in the complaint, you have done your part. The smoker would then be the only one subject to a fine.

9. Does this law affect tobacco self-service displays?

Effective July 1, 2010 it will be unlawful to sell cigarettes or tobacco products by a self-service display (an area openly accessible by consumers without the assistance of a salesperson) except n a vending machine that is permitted by law.

10. Are signs required and where can they be obtained?

Effective July 1, 2010, businesses that prohibit smoking will be required to post signs that have the international no smoking symbol and state that smoking is prohibited by State law. These signs are available online or by mail upon request, for free.

11. Where should no smoking signs be posted?

The only guidance in the law no sign location is that signs should be posted in a conspicuous place. Section 4 of the Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act states, "The proprietor or other person in charge of the premises of a public place, or other area where smoking is prohibited, shall post or cause to be posted in a conspicuous place, signs displaying the international no smoking symbol and clearly stating that smoking is prohibited by state law." The city attorney will interpret the law. It is recommended that you contact the city attorney for further clarification.

12. Do signs need to be posted in each business within a larger office building or just on the main entrances to the building?

The law states that a sign must be posted in a conspicuous place in each building. Smoking would not be allowed in that building. The city attorney will interpret the law. It is recommended that you contact the city attorney for further clarification.

13. Does the law apply to work vehicles?

The Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act does not mention work vehicles other than taxis and limousines. Smoking is prohibited in taxis and limousines. Businesses may restrict smoking in vehicles as company policy, but it is not part of the State law.

14. Is smoking prohibited at Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings?

Types of meetings are not listed in the law as exemptions. Exemptions are based on location. AA and NA meetings are often held in churches and community centers. These locations are smoke-free locations. Individuals may step outside (10 feet from any doorways, open windows or air intakes) to smoke, but they may not smoke in the facility.

15. What are the penalties for breaking the law?

Fines, for owners/operators and smokers:

• 1st Violation - Not more than $100
• 2nd Violation within 1 year - Not more than $200
• 3rd and additional violations within 1 year - Not more than $500 per violation

16. Can people smoke in a business when it is not open to the public such as after hours, on weekends, or on holidays?

No. Smoking is prohibited at all times in businesses that are not exempt.

17. Is smoking allowed in Class A or B Clubs like VFWs or American Legions?

No, it is against the City ordinance.

18. What is the impact of the lawsuits filed related to the Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act?

The two lawsuits that have been filed have no effect on the Emporia ordinance.

19. What steps to businesses need to take to comply with the law?

Check out the Kansas Smoke-Free Business Toolkit for more details.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Municipal Court

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1. Can I change my court date?

If you would like to request that your court date be held on a sooner date, you may fill out and submit a Motion to Advance Hearing (PDF). 

If you would like to request that your court date be held on a later date, you may fill out and submit a Motion to Continue Hearing (PDF). 

Changes in court date are not guaranteed. You may call the Court Clerk's Office for information about the status of your request.

2. Can I get more time to pay my ticket? What happens if I am late paying my ticket?

You must pay your ticket by the date listed on the citation, appear personally in court, or hire an attorney to appear on your behalf.  In court, you may request more time to pay, or you may request a trial.  If you do not pay and do not appear in court, a bench warrant for your arrest may be issued and additional costs may be assessed. Failure to pay or appear may also result in suspension of driving privileges.

3. How do I find out if I have a warrant and what do I do next?

You may call the Court Clerk's Office at (620) 343-5666 to ask if there is a warrant for your arrest through Emporia Municipal Court.  If you have an active warrant, you may report to the Lyon County Detention Center or come to the Court Clerk's Office to post a bond and schedule a new court date in certain circumstances.  Alternatively you may appear on the next regularly scheduled municipal court docket to speak with the judge about your warrant.  Court dockets are held on Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m., Thursdays at 9:00 a.m., and Thursdays at 2:00 p.m.  

4. How do I find out why someone is in jail, and how do I get them out?

You may contact the Lyon County Detention Center at (620) 341-3205 for information about whether someone is currently incarcerated and options for release.   Please make note of any case numbers you are given as this may quicken the release process.  If the individual is being held elsewhere, you will need to contact the facility in which they are housed to determine the steps necessary for their release. 

5. How much do I owe on my ticket or court case?

To find out the amount due, please call the Court Clerk's Office at (620) 343-5666.

6. How do I keep a moving violation off of my driving record? How do I get a charge amended?

You may speak in person with the City Prosecutor about options for amending or diverting your charges during open office hours on Tuesdays between 10:00 a.m. and noon at Emporia Municipal Court.  Charges can only be amended by the City Prosecutor.

7. When is my next court date?

Your court date will be listed on your citation or your most recent court sheet.  You may call the Court Clerk's Office for information about your next hearing date.

8. How do I apply for diversion?

Please see the Court Process & Hearings page for information about the diversion program.

9. I was found guilty in court and don't agree with the judge's decision.

If you do not agree with the judge's ruling, you have the right to appeal your case. Municipal Court cases are appealed to the District Court of the Fifth Judicial District. The case will be tried again before a District Court Judge and, upon request, before a jury. Immediately upon conviction, you should advise the Municipal Court Judge of your intent to appeal. An appeal bond will be noted on your paperwork.

You must file the appeal within fourteen (14) days of the Municipal Court conviction. Saturdays and Sundays are included unless the 14th day falls on Saturday, Sunday, or a Holiday.  Please contact the Court Clerk's Office for more information about filing an appeal. 

10. I received a subpoena to appear in court. What does that mean?

A subpoena is a court order requiring you to appear in court at the stated date and time.  If you receive a subpoena, it is typically because you are a witness or a victim to an alleged crime.  If you need more information about the subpoena you may contact the Court Clerk's Office or the City Prosecutor.  If you cannot appear in court at the required date and time, you must contact the City Prosecutor as soon as possible.  Only the City Prosecutor can release you from a subpoena.

11. How can I find an attorney to represent me?

The Kansas Bar Association provides a Lawyer Referral Service to assist people with finding an attorney.  You can access the service at https://ksbar.org/?pg=lrs_public

12. What if I need an attorney but can't afford one?

Please see the Court Process & Hearings page for information about your right to an attorney.

13. How can I get a copy of the evidence in my case?

If you have an active court case, you may request a copy of the evidence through submission of a Discovery Request Form (PDF).  Discovery may include police reports, photos, videos, audio recordings, test results, or other documents.  Reproduction fees may apply.

14. Why is my license suspended?

To find out why your license is suspended, you should contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in Topeka. The number is (785) 296-3671 and (785) 296-3613 (TTY only). Be sure to make note of the location/court and case numbers they give you. You can also check the status of your driver's license.

15. Will this ticket be reported to my insurance? How many points is it?

Kansas does not go by the "point system" in regard to your driving record. Your license will be subject to administrative suspension if you receive 3 moving violations within a year. Whether a violation is a moving infraction which is reported to insurance companies is determined by the Department of Motor Vehicles in Topeka.

If you have questions regarding the status of your driver's license or what charges are considered moving violations, you should contact the DMV at (785) 296-3963 and (785) 296-3601 (TTY only).

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Planning & Zoning

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1. What is zoning?

Zoning is the way government controls the physical development of land and the kinds of uses to which each individual property may be put.  Zoning specifies the areas in which residential, industrial, and commercial activities may take place.

2. What else do zoning laws regulate?

Besides restricting the uses of land, zoning laws regulate the density allowed on a property, the intensity of the use, number of parking spaces determined by the use, how parking spaces are surfaced, signage allowed, fencing, setback requirements, home occupations, and landscaping.

3. Who controls zoning?

In Lyon County there are two contacts. The City of Emporia Zoning Office answers questions relating to properties within the Metropolitan Planning Area and can be called at 620-343-4266. The Lyon County Office handles all other properties and can be called at 620-341-3471.

4. Is zoning permanent?

Zoning of a property is not set in stone.  A property owner may request a change to the zoning of their property.  There is a procedure involved.  State statute requires that a public hearing be held to hear comments from the community.  Statute requires notification of nearby property owners.  Do not assume that if your property is zoned residential that adjacent properties have the same zoning. 

5. How do I find out how a property is zoned?

You may call or stop by the Planning and Zoning Office for more information. You may also check out the online zoning map for the Metropolitan Planning Area.

6. What is a variance?

A variance is a request to deviate from current zoning requirements.  If granted, it permits the owner to use his land in a way that is ordinarily not permitted by the ordinance.  It is not a change, but a waiver of a certain requirement. 

7. May I operate a business at my residence?

There are regulations limiting the kind of businesses that may operate out of a residential district. They are designed to maintain the residential character of the neighborhood. You may read the Section relating to Home Occupations for more specific information regarding prohibited operations. If you live in a subdivision you may want to check out any restrictive covenants that apply to your property, as some subdivisions are more restrictive than local codes. For basic restrictions and for further information see Section 20-10 Home Occupations (PDF).

8. Can zoning laws prohibit the number of unrelated persons living together in a single-family home?

In the Emporia-Lyon County Metropolitan Planning Area, no more than four unrelated persons may reside in a single-family residential district.  This is found in the definition of family in Article 2 (PDF).

9. Can I have a kennel on my property?

 Kennels are only allowed in the Agricultural District as a Conditional Use and only when certain requirements are met. The definition of a kennel is found in Article 2 (PDF).

10. Why can I not park my car in my front or rear yard?

See: 22-305. Surfacing (PDF).

11. Do I need a fence permit to erect a fence?

A fence permit is not required to install a fence, however, there are regulations limiting the height allowed on certain areas of your property. Section 20-9 Fences (PDF).

12. Can I convert my basement or room over my garage into an apartment?

If you live in a Single-Family District, you would be limited to one living unit. If however, you reside in a Two-Family or Multiple-Family District, this might be allowed if your property meets square footage requirements. See: Section 6-6 Intensity of Use (PDF).

13. What are the ramification for violating zoning law?

See: Section 29-5 Penalty (PDF).

14. What are permitted uses?

Uses which are allowed outright in a particular zoning district.

15. What are exceptions?

Unlike variances or zoning changes, exceptions are built into a zoning category that permit certain uses within the category, without any further required proceedings.

16. What is a conditional use?

A use which is allowed in a particular district with permission. Conditional Use Permits are justified after a public hearing and a finding that they fit with the goals of the community's comprehensive plan.

17. What is a non-conforming use?

It is a legal violation of the current zoning ordinance because the use of the land existed before the ordinance was passed.  Nonconforming uses are often referred to as “grandfathered” uses. 

18. When do non-conforming uses create a problem?

• If your building is damaged or destroyed
• If you shut down the operation for a period greater than 12 months
• If you discontinue operations entirely
• If you significantly expand your operation
• If you substantially change the existing use of the business

19. How do I oppose a rezoning request?

Attend the Planning Commission when the public hearing is held and state your objections.

20. How do I challenge a proposed rezoning change?

The rezoning request goes to the Planning Commission for a public hearing.  The Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the Governing Body.  There is a 14-day waiting period before that recommendation goes to the Governing Body.  These 14 days give property owners a chance to file a protest petition. You may get the forms and filing information in the Emporia Zoning Office.

21. How do I find my property pins?

You may try to locate the pins yourself. They will be at the corners of your property. We have dimensions available to aid in your search. If you are unable to locate the pins we encourage you to contact a surveyor to determine that for you. It is important that you do not assume the sidewalk or the back of the curb is your property line.

Locating Property Pins (PDF)

22. What is a setback?

The distance between the building and the property line. When deciding where to place a structure, there are minimum setbacks that must be followed. If your structure is exactly at the setback, you will be required to provide an as built survey, which will increase the cost of your project.

23. What are the fencing requirements in the City of Emporia?

Section 20-9 outlines the fencing requirements. On residential lots, front yard fences can be 4 feet in height in the side yard, and rear yard fences can be up to 6 feet and 6 inches in height. Corner lots are considered as having two front yards.

See the regulations for more information (PDF).

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Trash & Recycling Services - Acceptable Materials

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1. Do you have a list of acceptable materials?

See the Yes and No List for a complete list of items.

2. Can I bag my recyclables in plastic bags before placing them in the cart?

No! Plastic bags are damaging to the equipment used to process recyclable materials. The only exception to this is shredded paper. Shredded paper may be placed in a clear plastic bag and tied closed. Please return your plastic grocery bags to Dillon’s, Walmart, JC Penney, or any participating plastic bag take-back locations.

3. What happens if I put trash or non-recyclables in my recycling cart?

First and foremost, when this happens, it contaminates other similar materials during the sorting and processing phase, lowers the overall quality of recyclables, and results in fines to our city if acceptable contamination rates are exceeded.

When trash is found in the recycling cart, you will receive a notice on your cart. Continuous use of the recycling cart for trash items will result in the removal of the recycling cart.

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Trash & Recycling Services - Cart Information

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1. When and how do I get my cart?

Your new recycling cart will be delivered to your home in May at no charge to you. Carts may not be placed at the curb for service until the resident’s first service day, on or after June 1, 2015.

2. How will I know which cart to use for recycling?

Think Green! The recycling cart will look similar to your existing cart, but it will have a green lid.

3. How big is the cart? Can I get another size?

All residents will receive a 95-gallon cart. Although this may seem very large, you will soon find that your recycling cart will fill more quickly than your trash cart. Smaller recycling carts are not available at this time. If you want to exchange the trash cart for a smaller size, you may call the Public Works Department at 340-6339 and the city will deliver your smaller trash cart when they become available in 2016.

4. Can I get another cart?

Residents can request an additional recycling cart by calling the Public Works Department at 340-6339. While additional fees apply to additional trash carts, an extra recycling cart is provided at no additional fee.

5. If I don’t want to recycle, what do I do with my cart?

Participation in Emporia’s curbside recycling program is voluntary. We hope you recognize the importance of recycling and will accept your environmental responsibility to participate. We request residents to try curbside recycling for 90 days. If you still do not want your recycling cart after this time, the city will pick up your cart at no charge.

6. What can I do if I can’t move the cart out to the street?

If anyone is physically unable to move the cart to the street, they should call the Public Works Department at 340-6339.

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Trash & Recycling Services - Collection Schedule

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1. When will my recycling be picked up? How do I know which week?

Collection/pickup of the recycling cart will occur every other week, the same day as the resident's usual trash service. Recycling routes will alternate weeks between the west side of Emporia and the east side.

• West Side Week Recycling Pickup: Households from the west side of West Street to the west City limits
• East Side Week Recycling Pickup: Households from the east side of West Street to east City limits, and east of Rural from 12th to 18th Avenue

During implementation of the curbside recycling program, West Side Pickup will have their first recycling collection the week of June 1st to June 5th. East Side Pickup will have their first recycling pickup the week of June 8th to June 12th.

Please note: A different truck is used to pick up recyclables. It may be several hours between the time your trash cart is emptied and the time your recycle cart is emptied.

To find out what day or what week, you may call the Public Works Department at 340-6339.

2. Where do I set out my recycling cart for collection?

Recycling carts should be placed in the same location you currently put your bin for trash collection. Follow these guidelines:

• Set trash and recycling carts out by 6 am.
• Make sure the cart lids are closed
• Place carts at the curb or along the alley with the handles pointing towards your residence.
• Keep the carts at least 5 feet away from other carts, mailboxes, fire hydrants, low-hanging trees or shrubs, parked cars, or utility poles.
• Remove empty carts from the street within 24 hours.

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Trash & Recycling Services - General Recycling Questions

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1. Do you have a recycling program?

As of June 1st, 2015, The City of Emporia offers the convenience of residential curbside, single-stream (also known as single-sort) recycling to all single-family and multi-family units of four or less. Households will have one polycart for trash and a polycart with a green lid for recyclables. Recyclables are picked up every other week on the resident’s usual trash collection day.

2. What do you mean by single-stream recycling?

Single-stream recycling means no sorting of recyclables. All permitted recyclable materials including paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and plastics may be placed together in the polycart with the green lid. Recyclables are picked up and transported to a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) where they are sorted, processed and sold for reuse.

3. How much will this recycling service cost me?

There is no additional charge for the recycling cart or the collection. This service is provided by the city as part of your existing trash service.

4. Why does the City provide this curbside recycling service?

The City's goals are to increase the diversion rate of solid waste, thereby reducing the amount of solid waste being landfilled, and improve quality of life by adding a new service for residents. Recycling is good for the environment and saves our natural resources. Curbside recycling is easy, convenient, and has many benefits to our citizens and generations to come.

In the last few years, large recycling sorting and recovery facilities (known as MRFs) have been built in our region, providing the resources needed to implement a curbside recycling program.

Recycling is no longer something that is nice to do; it is our personal and corporate responsibility to make our community more efficient and sustainable.

5. I live in an apartment. What are my recycling options?

Apartments of more than four units and residents outside the city limits are not currently eligible for the city's curbside recycling program but may continue to use the drop centers at the Recycling Center located at 3100 West South Avenue. The building is located on the Transfer Station grounds approximately 3/4 miles west of Prairie Street on South Avenue. Hours at the Recycling Center are 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday, and Sunday, 1 to 5 pm. A recycling trailer is located at Dillon's from Thursday noon to Saturday 10 am. Recycling trailers are also located in surrounding communities on a rotating basis (see trailer schedule). Recyclables will no longer have to be sorted any location.

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Trash & Recycling Services - General Trash Questions

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1. How often will refuse be collected?

The Sanitation Department makes every effort to keep collection of trash and garbage on a regularly scheduled basis to prevent health hazards. Residential trash collection is once a week. Scheduled collections may be altered from time to time due to bad weather, holidays, equipment failure or other causes. The day designated for pickup may be obtained by calling 620-340-6339.

2. Does the City of Emporia provide refuse containers?

The city provides the only accepted trash receptacle polycarts. The city will maintain repairs to the polycarts for normal wear and tear. You must place your polycart with lid opening on street side. Do not place extremely heavy objects in cart. Place all trash within the cart in plastic bags. Leave five feet clear space on each side of cart for collection access. Trash placed outside the polycart will not be picked up. Residents are responsible for the cleaning of their carts. Your polycart serial number is assigned to the house address. You must not remove the cart from that address when you move.

3. Is refuse picked up on Holidays and is the Transfer Station open on Holidays?

There is no residential or commercial pickup on holidays. The schedule for collection of trash and recycling may change due to a holiday. If a holiday falls on your trash pickup day, the Sanitation Department will pick up trash the Wednesday of that week. These dates are indicated on the Sanitation Schedule (PDF). Reminders for dates of collection on holiday weeks are publicized in the Emporia Gazette, The Shopper, and local radio stations.

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Water & Sanitation - General Questions

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1. How do I get my Water, Sewer and Trash services started?

You can either come into the Water Department at 104 East 5th Avenue to sign for service or fill out the Begin Service form (PDF) and email it to Utilities, fax it to 620-343-5668, or bring it in. You will need to show proof of identification and sign the appropriate application for service. There will be a $15 service fee on your first bill. No deposit is required. Should you be unable to come into the office, call 620-343-4244 to obtain the needed information for faxing your request. All three services - water, sewer and refuse - are billed in one bill. Water Department hours are from 8 am to 5 pm. Monday through Friday. If service is needed after business hours, please call 620-341-4335 after 5 pm. There may be a $50 service fee due by noon the next day.

2. Where do I call if I feel there is an error on my bill?

If you wish to call our attention to any billing problem, please do not write on the bill stub. Include a separate note with your request on it, or call our office at 620 343-4244

3. Where can I pay my water bill?

Your bill is due and payable on the billing date and is delinquent on the penalty date. Penalties are charged on the basis of when payments are received, not when they are mailed. You can pay online. If paying at the office, bring entire bill with you. 

Paying by Mail

Mail stub with your remittance to:
City of Emporia Water Department
P.O. Box 928
Emporia, KS 66801

For your convenience, payments are accepted at in our drop box located in the parking lot south of our office at 104 E 5th Avenue We also offer Automatic Bank Drafting.

4. What if I overpay on my bill?

Any over payment will be posted as a credit and applied to your next bill.

5. What if I am planning to move?

To start, stop or move services, please provide us a few days' notice to make sure we can complete the task on the date requested.  If no advanced notice is provided, the date requested may be moved to the next available service date.

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Water & Sanitation - Water Service

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1. Where do I report water leaks?

During normal work hours (8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday), call 620-343-4244. Emergency Service after hours is available by calling 620-341-4335. There will be a charge if called out for a non-emergency situation.

2. Why was my bill estimated?

Lack of access to the meter, bad weather, a threatening dog, locked gates, etc. can prevent us from reading the meter and your bill will be estimated. Water meters must be, at all times, easily accessible for reading and servicing.

3. What do I do if I think my water meter is frozen?

The Water Service Department can help only if the meter is frozen or water in the main line is frozen. If you think you have a frozen water meter, call 620-343-4244 during normal work hours (8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday), or Emergency Service after hours is available by calling 620-341-4335. You will need to call a plumber if in-home plumbing or the line leading from the meter to your home or business is frozen.

4. Where is my Water Meter Pit?

Water Meters are housed in the meter pits, which are carefully installed in the ground and covered with a heavy lid. This is to insure that no one can fall into one or otherwise hurt themselves. However occasionally the tile will settle below ground level, dirt will erode from around the tile, or someone will remove the lid. Please report any problems with your meter tile or lid by calling the City of Emporia Water Department at 620 343-4244.

5. What do I do if I have no water / low pressure?

If neither you nor your neighbors have water, or if the pressure is lower than usual, the Emporia Water Service Department or Underground Utilities division of Public Works may be doing emergency work on the water main leading to your neighborhood. You should be notified of scheduled work that would interrupt service with a notice hung on your door. If you have no water and have not received any notice of interruption to service, please call 620 343-4244.

6. How can I obtain Rural Water Information?

For information regarding Rural Water Districts in Kansas, call 785-366-3760 for the Kansas Rural Water Association (P.O. Box 226, Seneca, KS 66538-0026).

If you have questions about the quality or chemical content of the water or if the water tastes or smells unusual, please call the Water Treatment Plant at 620-340-6370.

Would you like to know how the water is treated, or perhaps arrange for a group tour of the Water Treatment Plant? Call the City of Emporia Water Treatment Plant at 620-340-6370 for more information.

7. How can I obtain Rural Water Information?

For information regarding Rural Water Districts in Kansas, call 785-366-3760 for the Kansas Rural Water Association (P.O. Box 226, Seneca, KS 66538-0026).

If you have questions about the quality or chemical content of the water or if the water tastes or smells unusual, please call the Water Treatment Plant at 620-340-6370.

Would you like to know how the water is treated, or perhaps arrange for a group tour of the Water Treatment Plant? Call the City of Emporia Water Treatment Plant at 620-340-6370 for more information.

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Water Rates

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1. How were the new water rates calculated?

New water rates were calculated based on future costs of treating and distributing water. The City of Emporia is one of few comprehensive treatment systems in Kansas that includes: clarification, filtration, and disinfection. Other water treatment systems in Kansas are fed by well water and only include the disinfection process.

2. Do most residential water users fall under the 5,000 gallons per month usage?

Yes. According to Burns and McDonnell data, 75.9% of residents fall under the 5,000 gallons per month usage.

3. How will residents benefit from new meters?

Residents will benefit from new water meters by: 

• Seeing usage daily from app;
• Data for app is collected every 15 minutes and uploads 3-4 times a day;
• Early leak detection notifications.

4. How do Emporia rates align with rates of similar sized communities?

According to Burns and McDonnell data, the City of Emporia is below average cost at 5,000 gallon per month usage. Average cost for the area is $32.53, whereas Emporia’s average cost is $28.62. (2022)

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Waterline System Event 2023

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1. Will my water bill be higher due to water main breaks?

Water bills will not rise as a direct result from this outbreak of water main breaks. The City will pay for the cost of repairing the lines. The cost for the excess water will be minimal because a large portion of the City's water cost is based on fixed costs, such as debt service, employees, equipment costs.  

Burns and McDonnell completed a water rate study that will result in a series of incremental increases. These increases will in fund long term upgrades to system and repay the state revolving loan fund for the $20 million in waterline projects to be completed.

2. Why is maintenance of the 12th Avenue water storage tank necessary at this time?

The tower is 33 years old and was experiencing significant issues in the interior of the structure that if not addressed could result in a failure of the water tower.  The project includes repair of the interior structure,  safety upgrades, sandblasting of the interior of the tank, epoxy coating to extend the life of the bowl, and a new mixing system to improve water quality. The exterior is also being painted to prevent the repairs in the bowl from rusting and extending the life of the bowl.  

3. What did the water model show would happen with tower offline?

The City utilized our contract water model to review the impact of the project.  At the time the model did not indicate we would see the increase in pressures we have seen since the project started. 

4. Why are there so many water main breaks occurring?

The City currently has one of its two water towers offline to perform maintenance on the interior of the bowl. This has created a shift in the pressure pattern for the City's water system and is causing fluctuations in pressure. That combined with 80–100-year-old pipe exploits weaknesses in the pipes and is causing breaks.

5. What projects are scheduled to improve the city waterline system?

1. 24th Avenue Waterline Project:
This project involves the installation of a new waterline from the water plant to 12th Avenue and Prairie Street.

Construction Duration: It is expected to take approximately one year to complete.

Purpose: The primary objective of this project is to increase the capacity and efficiency of our water distribution network in this specific area.

2. Southeast Transmission Main Project:
The Southeast Transmission Main project is extensive, spanning from 12th Avenue to Garfield Street, then to South Avenue, and finally to Carter Street.

Phases:
Design Phase: Anticipated to last up to 18 months.

Construction Phase: Expected to span between 24 to 36 months.

Purpose: The Southeast Transmission Main project will significantly enhance our ability to transport water across the entire city using a single, large pipe, before distributing it to the mains throughout town. This design will help reduce water velocity in the rest of the system, contributing to its overall stability.

These projects reflect our commitment to investing in the long-term reliability and efficiency of the city’s water distribution system. While we understand that construction may cause temporary inconveniences, we are dedicated to minimizing disruptions and keeping our community informed throughout the process.

6. Why is it necessary to work on the 12th Avenue water tower now?

The City has a very narrow window to complete the elevated storage tank project. The project cannot be completed in the summer months because of system demands. It cannot be completed in the winter because of temperatures too low to allow products to cure. Starting the project in the spring is a very narrow window with more active weather.

7. Why are fire hydrants allowed to be open for extended period of time?

Select fire hydrants are open in Emporia to help relieve pressure on the waterline system. The hydrant water will enter storm water system and then return to the water source.

Report possible water main breaks to the Public Works Department at 620-340-6339. 

8. How does water move through the city?

The City has to push water from the northwest part of the City to our major industrial partners on the SE side of the City.  That means that you need to have a fairly high-pressure level on the water as it leaves the plant.  The means that the lines closer to the plant will experience a higher-pressure level than line further from the plant.  

9. Is there the water contaminated after a water main break?

The water is not currently contaminated after water main breaks through September 19, 2023. City crews work diligently to restore service by flushing the lines each time a repair is made. City water service currently exceeds KDHE standards.

10. What is the difference between a Water Watch and a Water Warning?

What is a Water Watch?

A Water Watch may be issued when conditions indicate an increased risk that the water supply is experiencing higher-than-usual usage that may require voluntary water conservation efforts to avoid the water supply from reaching a level that impacts critical infrastructure.

What is a Water Warning?
A Water Warning may be issued when the water supply is facing serious challenges that require immediate action. Water shortages threaten the city’s ability to meet essential water needs for public safety and the community. Mandatory actions are required during a Water Warning such as eliminating non-essential water use, conserving indoor water use up to 1,000 gallons per week until warning is lifted, and emergency preparedness measures.

11. Why is the Splash Pad open in a Water Watch?

The Splash Pad recycles water. That water is replaced on Monday mornings.

12. What is the difference between city, county, and school district taxes and what they fund?

City of Emporia residents pay property taxes to five entities: Lyon County, City of Emporia, USD 253, recreation, and the state. City staff explain each entity tax in this YouTube video.