Colby City Council Approves Airport Construction, Receives STAR Bond Update
May 19, 2026
During the latest Colby city council meeting, officials received updates on the proposed STAR Bond arena project south of Interstate 70 and approved a series of funding measures for a new city-owned airport hangar on May 19.The council also renewed a deal with Swartz Veterinary for pound services, approved an equipment purchase for the electrical department, and finalized a cost-sharing agreement with Thomas County for dispatch services.
Most of the evening focused on STAR Bond development as project representative Mike Woofter and his team presented updated renderings of the arena and associated entertainment districts planned near the facility.
Plans currently call for two indoor arenas, outdoor competition and warm-up arenas, nearly 500 livestock stalls, RV hookups, vendor space, restaurants, suites, meeting areas, and spectator seating. Developers indicated that the facility is being designed to accommodate a wide range of western sports, livestock exhibitions, horse events, rodeos, and agricultural competitions.
Woofter reported that work continues on the project’s revenue study, which is being conducted by MuniCap, while bond underwriters continue preparing financial documents needed for eventual STAR Bond issuance. Project officials said the current timeline could place bond approvals before the council this summer, with bond issuance potentially occurring in August.
The group also heard from retail development consultant Rickey Hayes of Retail Attractions, LLC, who has been retained to assist with retail recruitment connected to the project. Hayes noted that Colby’s location on Interstate 70 and its position as a regional trade center have created demand for western-themed retailers, restaurants, and related businesses if the project moves forward.
The council then moved into discussions regarding a new city-owned airport hangar, approving four measures related to the project. The bid was awarded to Q.M.C. Construction out of Quinter; the council approved the state and federal grants tied to the project and they authorized the city’s matching contribution.
The council approved awarding Q.M.C. the construction bid in the amount of $1,410,779.95, contingent upon receipt of Federal Aviation Administration funding and completion of required documentation.
The Council also approved a Kansas Airport Improvement Program grant of $441,000, followed by an FAA grant worth $1,131,734. The two grants will cover all but $82,180 for construction costs, which the city is responsible for, but they are awaiting confirmation of a few more grants to help with overall cost.
The group also approved a new agreement with Swartz Veterinary Clinic to continue providing city pound services at a monthly cost of $1,750.
Discussion on the topic included the challenges associated with animal control, sheltering responsibilities, and rising service demands. Police officials reported that dispatch has handled more than 100 animal-related calls to date this year, but only a few required animals to be impounded. Officers noted that efforts are made to locate pet owners before animals are transported to the pound whenever possible.
Next on the agenda was approval of monitoring equipment for the electrical department. The council approved the purchase of six Miramonitor Catalyst Monitors for $53,406.
Electric Department Director Brad Davis explained the monitoring equipment will be used with future power generation projects and allows operators to monitor emissions and engine performance. The department sought approval now because the manufacturer is phasing out the existing model, which is already used at the city power plant and remains familiar to local staff.
The council also approved a 2027 communications contract with Thomas County to share costs associated with emergency dispatch services. Under the agreement, the county and city will contribute $283,004.09 each for the next years expenses.
The budget includes an additional communications position along with increased operational and equipment expenses.
The council heard from City department heads, first was Fire Chief Scott Hilbrink, he informed the council that annual testing revealed several deficiencies on ageing fire apparatus, particularly a 1989 fire truck that continues to require maintenance and no longer meets modern standards. Hilbrink said replacement costs for a new ladder truck could range from $1.5 million to nearly $2 million, depending on specifications and equipment needs.
Hilbrink said the department is beginning discussions regarding long-term replacement planning as Colby continues to grow and add larger commercial structures, including the proposed STAR Bond project.
The council adjourned with plans to meet again on June 2.