Date: April 28-29, 2026
Location: Hays Recreation Center, 1105 Canterbury Dr. Hays, KS
CEUs: 0.5

Hotel Room Block:- Hilton Garden Inn Hays

Register Here

Schedule Overview

Tuesday, April 28

1:00 – 1:15 PM Welcome

1:15 – 2:15 PM State Budget Update: What’s New & What You Need to Know

Speaker: Kansas Department of Administration

This session will dive into recent updates to the state’s budget process and explore current legislative changes that could impact Recreation Commissions across Kansas. Hear the latest developments, ask questions, and gain clarity on how these changes may affect your agency's funding and operations.

2:30 – 4:00 PM Funding Recreation Commissions: Statutes, Mill Levies, and Financial Strategies

Speakers: Randy Pankratz and Reece Hiebert, Pankratz & Hodge, P.A.

Recreation commissions across Kansas are facing growing financial pressures as the cost of doing business continues to rise faster than assessed valuation. This session will walk through key statutory requirements and funding considerations that directly impact recreation commissions. Participants will review the purpose and use of the Employee Benefit Fund, including the role of taxing entity approval in the process, and special rules related to Employee Benefit Funds.

The session will also provide a refresher on relevant statutes, including how recreation commissions can raise their mill levy, the procedures required to do so, and what actions require governing body approval versus a public vote. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of their options and responsibilities when navigating funding challenges.

4:15 – 5:00 PM Cohort Meeting & Check-In

Review today’s sessions, ask questions, etc.

7:00 Evening Social

Wednesday, April 29

8:30 – 9:30 AM Compensation and Benefits: Navigating Evaluations, Longevity Raises, and Board Conversations

Panel: Eric Jantz, Brian Peel, Shane DeWald, Roger Bixenman

Compensation and benefits can be one of the most challenging topics for park and recreation leaders to navigate, especially when it comes to employee evaluations, longevity raises, and communicating needs to governing boards. This session will feature a panel of three experienced directors who will each share practical insights and real-world approaches from their agencies.

9:30 – 10:00 AM Cohort Discussions

10:00 – 11:00 AM Employment Law Essentials: What Every Park and Recreation Leader Needs to Know

Speaker: US Department of Labor

This session will provide a practical overview of key topics impacting park and recreation professionals. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of FMLA requirements, the differences between state and local regulations, and how to properly classify employees as exempt or non-exempt. The session will also cover overtime policies, child labor laws, and best practices for hiring and termination. Whether you’re new to management or a seasoned director, this session will help you stay compliant, reduce risk, and make informed decisions for your team.

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Lunch, Cohort Conversations & Final Session

Why Attend

This summit offers a unique opportunity to step away from daily responsibilities and connect with other recreation commission leaders who understand the challenges and opportunities of the role. Through expert presentations, real-world examples, and small-group cohort discussions, participants will leave with practical knowledge and new perspectives they can bring back to their agencies.

Whether you are navigating budget pressures, preparing for board discussions, or planning for the future of your commission, the Recreation Commission Summit provides the space to learn, collaborate, and move forward with confidence.