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Engineering - Stormwater Fees

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1. Why do we have fees?

Increased regulatory requirements have prompted the City to develop a Stormwater Fee to fund system improvements. This alternative will enable the City to remain regulatory compliant.

2. Who pays stormwater fees?

The fee is assessed to all properties within the City limits of Junction City. The fee is based on four separate property categories:

1. Developed Residential
2. Undeveloped Residential
3. Other Developed Property
4. Other Undeveloped Property

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Engineering - Stormwater Management

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1. What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff is water from rain or melting snow. It flows from rooftops, over paved streets, sidewalks, across bare soil, and through lawns and storm drains. Polluted runoff from farms, construction sites, homes and public spaces is now widely recognized as the single largest threat to water quality in the United States.

When it rains, water flows across impervious surfaces, collecting pollutants like pet waste, salt, pesticides, fertilizer, oil, grease, litter, and soil along the way. Increased volumes of rainwater, or runoff, flows untreated through a system of storm sewers into area rivers, lakes, and streams. Polluted stormwater can kill or damage plants, fish and wildlife, while degrading water quality in local watersheds.

2. What can you do to help clean up stormwater runoff?

In order to contribute to keeping stormwater runoff clean, people can:

• Landscape with native plants, grasses and flowers.
• Don’t over water your lawn.
• Mow high - typically 3 to 4 inches.
• Leave clippings on lawn, they provide nutrients.
• Over-seed bare spots in your lawn in early spring or early fall.
• Avoid over-application of pesticides or lawn chemicals (Homeowners use ten times more chemicals per acre on lawns than farmers use on crops. 67,000,000 pounds of synthetic pesticides are used on U.S. lawns).
• Check streets and sidewalks after applying lawn products; sweep excess into lawn, not the street.
• Redirect your downspouts to drain in your lawn or garden.
• Increase the amount of your yard in tree cover.
• Mulch circles beneath trees and around flower beds.
• Use rain barrels or rain gardens to conserve rain water.
• Don’t wash your car in your driveway or on the street, either wash your car at a commercial car wash or on a surface that absorbs water, such as grass or gravel.
• Pick up your pet waste.
• Contain your curbside trash so that it won’t leak, fall over or blow around.
• Don’t litter.
• Take a walk to pick up litter and debris before it rains.
• Sweep your garage and driveway into a dustpan instead of into the street.
• Don’t pitch cigarettes out the car window.
• Don’t dump anything down storm drains; remember this water is not treated before it goes back to the river.
• Recycle used motor oil, and safely dispose of other household hazardous products like insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, and auto fluids.

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Fire Department

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1. Do I need a burn permit?

It is illegal to have open burning in the city limits of Junction City without a burn permit. A permit can be obtained from the Fire Department. For more information contact us at 785-238-6822.

Section 210.010: Burning Prohibited

No person, firm, or corporation, shall burn, or cause to be burned, any trash, rubbish, leaves, wood, straw, or other combustible material within the City limits of Junction City, Kansas, except in incinerators approved by the State Board of Health; in fireplaces located within homes when said fireplaces have been constructed according to building codes then applicable; in stoves, furnaces, or lights whose construction and installation meet all legal requirements; in charcoal and gas fired outdoor cooking appliances when the purposes of said burning is food preparation; in controlled burning conducted by or under permit from the Junction City Fire Department where said burning is for fire prevention or retarding purposes; in a recreational fire as defined in the 2006 IFC to have a total fuel area of three feet or less in diameter and two feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth or similar purposes. Any recreational fire must be a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from any structure and supervised at all times. Any person, partnership, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this Article shall, upon conviction thereof, be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and be fined no less than $100 or more than $500 or imprisoned for a time not exceeding one month, or both such fine and imprisonment. (CC 1965 Section 7-301; Ordinance Number G-369 Section 1, 3-5-74; Ordinance Number G-1104, Section 1, 1-13-12)

2. Do you give fire safety presentation?

The Junction City Fire Department has personnel available to give fire safety presentations to classes or groups. For more information on this program, contact us at 785-238-6822.

3. Do you give tours of the fire station?

Contact us if you wish to tour either of our stations. To make arrangements call 785-238-6822 for Station I or 785-761-2244 for Station II.

4. Do you have a program for juvenile fire setters?

The Kansas State Fire Marshall’s office has developed a program to work with the families of children who start fires or play with matches. For more information on this program, contact Firefighter Nick Nutter at 785-238-6822.

5. Does the Junction City Fire Department charge for its services?

There is no fee for our fire and rescue services. However, the Fire Department does charge for ambulance calls. Charges for emergency medical services depend on care given and supplies used. Part of this cost may be covered by your insurance program. You should check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered for emergency ambulance costs.

For more information about ambulance charges, contact our department at 785-238-6822.

6. How do I report a fire hazard?

If you see an immediate life-threatening hazard such as a fire, downed power lines, or hazardous chemical spills call 911.

If you have a question about whether something is safe or legal, or if you want to report a fire code violation, contact the Junction City Fire Department at 785-238-6822.

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Police Department - Career Information

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1. Is the Police Department currently hiring?

To find if the Police Department is currently hiring, please contact Lieutenant Douglas Cathey at 785-762-5912.

2. How do I get started in the hiring process?

The first step in the hiring process is filing out a job application online through the City of Junction City employment website.

3. How long does the hiring process take?

The hiring process normally takes 3 to 5 months to complete. However, this time period can be shorter or longer, depending on the amount of openings and the experience level of an applicant.

4. What are the steps in the hiring process?

1. Submit Application and Supporting Documents
2. Complete the WORKReady! Certification through the local workforce
3. Records Check
   1. III
   2. Junction City Police Department Records
   3. KBI
   4. MVD
   5. NCIC
4. Physical Abilities (Physical Agility) Test
5. Written Test - Must pass with 70%
6. Initial Interview - Selected by Written Test Scores
7. Polygraph Examination (Those Selected in Step 5)
8. Background Investigation (Those Passing Step 6)
9. Command Staff Review of Background Investigation
10. Interview Board
11. Chiefs Review of Applicants and Selection
12. Conditional Offer of Employment
13. Physical and Drug Screen at Geary Community Hospital
14. Psychological Testing
15. Psychological Interview and Evaluation
16. Final Background and Records Check
17. Offer of Employment

5. How many positions are currently open?

The number of openings for full-time police officers vary. Please call Lieutenant Douglas Cathey at 785-762-5912 for information on vacancies.

6. Is a college degree required?

No. The only educational requirement is a high school degree or equivalent.

7. Do I need prior police experience?

No. If hired as a Junction City Police Officer, the necessary training will be provided.

8. Is there an age requirement or restriction?

The only age restriction is a person must be 21 years of age upon the date of hire. There is no upper age restriction.

9. Is there a height or weight requirement?

No, there is no height or weight requirement.

10. What is the starting salary?

The starting salary in 2022 was $44.895.

Shift differential and Specialized Position Allowance are enhancements that can be earned.

11. Do you have "Lateral Entry" for experienced officers?

Yes. Although the positions of Officer and Sergeant are covered by a union contract, those with police experience can qualify for starting pay above the level of those with no police experience.

12. Who pays for the Academy?

The Junction City Police Department pays officers salaries while attending training at the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center. KLETC pays for room, board and instruction. There is no charge to an officer.

13. How long is the Academy?

The Academy takes 14 weeks.

14. Where is the Academy held?

KLETC is located outside of Hutchinson, Kansas.

15. Do I have to live in Junction City or the State of Kansas in order to apply for the position of Police Officer?

No. However, if hired as a Junction City Police Officer, you must reside within Geary County within 90 days of your employment.

16. If I live "out of town," how many trips will I have to make to Junction City to complete the hiring process?

Out-of-town applicants can expect to make at least two to three trips to Junction City during the hiring process. Please notify Lieutenant Nichols if you are coming from out of state so that as many steps in the process can be scheduled as possible.

17. If travel to Junction City is necessary to take part in the hiring process, does the Police Department pay for or help defray the costs?

No. The Police Department is not liable for travel costs.

18. Does the Police Department furnish the needed uniforms and equipment?

Yes. Uniforms, leather gear, weapon and other law enforcement tools are provided by the Police Department. Cleaning of uniforms is also paid for along with a $300 a year allowance for:

• Boots
• Socks
• Tee shirts
• Etc.

19. How many commissioned officers does your department have?

The current authorized strength of the Junction City Police Department is 50 commissioned officers.

20. How large is the City of Junction City?

The current population of Junction City is 25,500.

21. What shifts do Patrol Officers work?

Patrol Officers work 12 hour shifts. 6 am to 6 pm or 6 pm to 6 am. A standard two week pay period consists of the following: 

• Work Monday and Tuesday. Off Wednesday and Thursday. 
• Work Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Off Monday and Tuesday. 
• Work Wednesday and Thursday. Off Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Public Works

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1. Do I need a certified tradesperson to work on my own home?

You may perform construction activities with out having a trades certificate, provided that you are both the home owner and occupant of the home. However, you must still obtain a permit and have inspections completed during construction. Please call Code Enforcement for inspections at 785-238-3103, ext. 512.

2. How can I get an inspection on the property that I am renting?

If you believe there is a code violation on your rental property you may file a housing complaint in writing to our office and we will schedule an appointment to investigate your complaint.

3. How do we go about enclosing the ditch in front of our house?

Enclosing the ditch is not preferred by the City as it can impact the surrounding drainage. However if you are considering enclosing your ditch, contact the Department of Public Works to determine the feasibility and requirements for enclosing the ditch.

4. I think my neighbor's tree is dangerous - what should I do?

The City is only responsible for trees that are on City controlled property. Any other issues can be reported to the Codes department.

5. The snowplow damaged my yard and mailbox. What do I do?

Contact Public Works at 248-624-0141. The Department of Public Works will provide temporary mailboxes so that you can still receive mail, permanent repairs to mailboxes and yards will be completed when weather allows.

6. What are the snow plowing priorities?

The main roads are kept passable through a snow storm and cleared completely by the end of the storm. Residential areas are next followed by the industrial subdivisions. If Public Works is only using salt for a light dusting then the main roads are done along with hills and curves that could be considered hazardous in those conditions.

7. What Code applies to unsafe or existing buildings?

The City of Junction City has adopted the International Property Maintenance Code, 2006 Edition.

8. What Contractor licenses are issued by Code Enforcement?

The following licenses are issued by Code Enforcement:

• Building Contractors (General, Residential and Limited Contractors)
• Craftsmen (Electrical, Plumbing, Plumbing with Gas and Mechanical)
• Sign Hangers
• Tree Trimmers

9. What is required to obtain a building permit for a commercial structure?

For a commercial structure four sets of plans must be submitted to Code Enforcement along with a Plan Check List. The plans will be reviewed by Code Enforcement, Fire Department, Planning and Zoning and Veolia Water Public Works. The plans must be stamped by an architect or engineer licensed to practice in Kansas as per state statute.

One set of plans will be kept by Code Enforcement, one set of plans will be kept by the Fire Department and one set of plans must be kept on site. A building permit application must be completed to include a list of all licensed contractors performing work on the project. (All contractors must be licensed in the City of Junction City.)

10. What is required to obtain a building permit for a one or two family residential structure?

For one- or two-family residential structures a building permit application must be completed. This application must include all licensed contractors performing the work and signed by the applicant. A engineer stamped site plan may be required with the permit, depending on the work performed. 

Most permits will need to be approved by Planning and Zoning and Code Enforcement. This process may take a couple of days.

11. When will my street be cleaned?

The streets are swept three times a year usually in late April, June and September.

12. When will my street get repaved?

The City has a five year paving plan that is updated every year based upon road conditions and budgetary restrictions.

13. Who do I call if I see somebody dumping things into the storm sewer system?

Immediately contact the Department of Public Works at 248-624-0141 Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 5 pm. After these times call the Police Department at 248-624-6114.

14. Who do I call if there is a broken tree limb or other hazardous material obstructing traffic?

Immediately contact the Department of Public Works at 248-624-0141, Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 5 pm. After these times call the Police Department at 248-624-6114.

15. Who issues building permits and business licenses?

Code Enforcement issues all building permits and licenses. Call 785-238-3103, ext. 182 for more information, or email Sarah Brown.

16. Why are there flags/paint markings on my front lawn?

Flags are set by various utility companies in order to identify underground utilities prior to construction activities in the area. Contact the Miss Dig Communications Department at 811 for further information. You may also contact the Department of Public Works at 248-624-0141 to see if it is a City related project.

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Streets

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1. How do I report a missing or broken street sign?

Please call Veolia Water Public Works 785-238-7142 to report a missing or broken street sign.

2. How do I report a pothole in my street?

Please call Public Works at 785-238-7142 to report a pothole. It will be scheduled for repair as soon as possible. Some potholes will not be repaired immediately if the City will be resurfacing that street in the near future.

3. The snowplow damaged my yard and mailbox. What do I do?

Contact the Department of Public Works at 248-624-0141. Public Works will provide temporary mailboxes so that you can still receive mail. Permanent repairs to mailboxes and yards will be completed when weather allows.

4. What happens if a tree limb falls on my property?

By City Ordinance, it is the responsibility of the property owner to remove a fallen tree or tree limb. Public Works will remove tree limbs that fall on the street if it is blocking the roadway.

5. Who do I call if a school zone warning light is not working?

Please call Veolia Water Public Works 785-238-7142 to report a school zone warning light.

6. Who do I call if a stoplight is not working?

Please call the Junction City Police Department at 785-762-5912 during daytime hours and 911 if at night to report a stoplight not working.

7. Who replaces broken or missing street curbs and sidewalks?

By City Ordinance, the property owner is responsible for the repair or replacement of curbs and sidewalks on your property. The City will only replace curbs or sidewalks when it is part of a large street or improvement project.

8. Why are there so many potholes?

Potholes develop because of water getting in between the road surfaces. The effect of freezing and thawing will push up the asphalt surface.

9. Why isn't my street plowed or salted if there is a snow or ice storm?

The Street Department responds to these emergencies based on public safety priority. The main "arterial" streets will be cleared first to allow ambulance, fire and police vehicles to travel throughout Junction City. The main business areas and schools are next. Residential streets are last to be cleaned or treated.

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Trash / Sanitation

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1. Are there accommodations for the elderly or disabled?

Yes, and this is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Public Works at 785-238-7142.

2. Are there other concerns with wastes being set out?

Wastes to be collected also must be limited to the residence where the waste are generated. Violators may be required to have a special pick up for an additional charge.

3. Can I have things sticking out of my cart?

No, lid must close. If items are sticking above the lid, the cart cannot be mechanically dumped into the truck.

4. Can I set out brushy tree waste?

You are allowed to set out four additional bundles of limbs outside of your trash that will get picked up for free. Anything additional will require a special pickup.

5. How can odors be controlled?

All trash must be bagged which will help with any odors. Washing the cart as needed with warm water and soap will also help.

6. Is there anything that cannot be placed in the cart?

Items that are not accepted in the cart include:

• Batteries
• Building materials
• Dead animals
• Dirt, sand
• Extremely heavy objects
• Hazardous materials
• Hot ashes
• Needles
• Oil
• Paints
• Rocks
• Solvents or other flammable liquids
• Tires

7. May I obtain additional carts?

Yes, please call Public Works 785-238-7142 to inquire about additional carts.

8. May I use containers I already have in addition to my cart?

Yes, however the polycart provided by Public Works should be the primary refuse container. Please note: Public Works will only be responsible for damages to their polycarts.

9. What are the limits for additional containers?

Four additional containers plus polycart provided by Public Works. During yard waste season, April through December, 4 bags of grass and up to 15 bags of leaves, under 40 gallons, will be collected at no additional charge.

10. What do I do with the cart when I move?

The cart belongs to the City and will stay at the property when you move. It is the property, or management company’s responsibility to secure the cart between tenants.

11. What happens if I forget to put out my trash at the right time?

By City Ordinance, the customer is allowed 1 trash return trip per calendar year at no charge. After one courtesy, there will be a fee of $12.34 for all return trips. Please call Public Works at 238-7142 with any questions or to schedule a return trash pickup.

12. What if I do not have a cart?

If you do not have a cart, please contact Public Works at 785-238-7142.

13. What if I have bulky items or exceed container limits?

For special pickups, contact Public Works at 785-238-7142 and arrange for a special pickup. Special pickups must be called in to Public Works by 2 PM the day before your regularly scheduled pickup day.

14. What if the cart is broken?

If your cart is broken, Public Works should be contacted as soon as possible. The damage will be examined. If damage is due through normal use, the cart will be repaired/replaced.

If the damage is from misuse by the customer, there will be a $50 cart replacement fee.

15. What if the cart is lost or stolen?

You have a serial number located on the front of the cart that can help you identify yours and you can also put your address under the lid. The customer will be responsible for trying to locate missing cart before a new one is issued. 

16. What is the charge for special pickups requiring a fee?

The minimum charge for a special pickup is $15 and can vary depending on the items. Please call Public Works at 785-238-7142 with any questions.

17. What other containers can I use?

City refuse ordinance allows for a 32-gallon can or less with proper handles and light lifting lid. Garbage bags must be 40 gallons or less. Any container with a mechanical lifting device T and a proper fitting lid without other commercial logos may be utilized if Public Works considers this suitable but will not be responsible for damages.

18. What will constitute a special pickup for fee?

Anything more than the allowed additional items. (4 additional bags, 4 empty cardboard boxes, or 4 small bundles of limbs)

19. When is my regular sanitation pickup day?

Your regular pickup day is determined by your location in Junction City. The pickup days are regularly Monday through Friday.

For more information please call Public Works at 785-238-7142.

20. When may I set out my carts / refuse?

City ordinance requires no more than 24 hours in advance and all containers must be removed within 24 hours of collection day.

By City Ordinance, the resident must put out the containers by 6:30 am (summer hours) or 7:30 am (winter hours) in order for the sanitation crews to pickup your trash. 

21. Where do I place my cart?

Cart should be placed within one foot of curb or alley with the wheels facing away from the street or alley.

22. Where do I put my trash containers?

You need to put your trash within 3 feet of the curb or alley in order for the sanitation employees to find and remove the trash safely.

23. Who is responsible for cleaning the cart and how is it cleaned?

The customer is responsible for cleaning the cart. Soap and hot water easily cleans the cart.

24. Who owns the cart?

The carts are the property of City of Junction City but you can write your address under the lid.

25. Will there be a fee for a special pickup?

We will only pickup 4 additional bags, 4 empty cardboard boxes, or 4 small bundles of limbs for free outside of your trash can. Anything additional will require a special pickup scheduled in advance. The minimum for a special pickup is $15 and can vary depending on the items.

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Water & Sewer

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1. Can I get a tour of the water plant?

We are pleased to offer guided tours of the water plant, by appointment, for individuals and groups. You can contact us at 785-762-5855 to set up a date and time. For your safety, we provide hard hats and safety glasses for all visitors touring water plant.

2. How do I report a blocked sewer?

Please call Public Works at 785-238-7142 during normal business hours and Junction City Police Department at 785-238-5912 at night or weekends.

3. How do I report a leaking water main or water meter?

Please call Public Works at 785-238-7142 during normal business hours and Junction City Police Department at 238-5912 at night or weekends.

4. How much water is produced at our water plant each year?

The Junction City water plant produces an average of 3 million gallons per day to serve the City of Junction City, City of Grandview Plaza and Geary County Rural Water District Number 1. This amount is over 1 billion gallons of drinking water each year.

5. How often are water meters read?

Water meters are read every month for billing the customer for water, sewer and sanitation services.

6. Who do I call to locate water or sewer line if I am going to dig in my yard?

You will need to call Kansas One Call for locating all underground utilities, just dial 811. Allow 72 hours for responding to locates.

7. Who do I contact if I have a question about water service in Junction City?

The City’s Customer Service Center, 700 North Jefferson Street, 785-238-3103 will help you with questions concerning water, wastewater and trash collection services.

8. Why is my water bill so much higher than it used to be?

Water meters record all water that passes through the meter. If you have a leak in your plumbing, toilet or faucet, the water bill will be higher.