Bushton Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Bushton, Kansas government websites.
About Bushton City Government
Annual Budget
$1.2 million
Bushton, Kansas, operates under a Mayor-Council government structure, specifically known as the Bushton City Council. This governing body consists of five elected members, including the Mayor, who serve four-year terms. Council members are elected at-large, meaning they represent the entire city rather than specific districts.
The city has an approximate annual operating budget of $1.2 million for the fiscal year 2023. This budget supports various city functions, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community services.
Regular city council meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Bushton City Hall, located at 118 E. 1st Street, Bushton, KS 67427. Residents are encouraged to attend and engage with their local government during these sessions.
About Bushton, Kansas
Nestled in the heart of Rice County, the quaint community of Bushton, Kansas is a hidden gem with a charm that reflects its rural roots. With a population of approximately 371, this small town embodies the spirit of Midwestern hospitality and tight-knit community living. Founded in the late 19th century, Bushton emerged as a vital stop along the railroad, which played a crucial role in its early development. The town features several neighborhoods, each showcasing a variety of residential styles that contribute to its unique character. The local economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with many residents engaged in farming and related industries. Additionally, small businesses and local services provide employment opportunities and foster a sense of community among residents. What sets Bushton apart is its commitment to preserving its historical heritage while embracing modern conveniences, making it a distinctive place to live and work.
The safety and security of Bushton are maintained by the dedicated officers of the Bushton Police Department, who work closely with the Rice County Sheriff's Office to serve the community effectively. For residents needing access to criminal records, the process is straightforward. Individuals seeking arrest records, mugshots, or booking records should start by contacting the Bushton Police Department directly, where records may be available through their records unit. If further information is required, the Rice County Sheriff’s Office can be reached for additional documentation or inquiries. For a more comprehensive background check, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation serves as the state repository for criminal records and offers an online portal that allows residents to request criminal history reports. It is advised to check on the KBI website for any associated fees and the specific requirements needed for obtaining these records. As a resourceful option, online lookup portals may exist for users to access various public records, although the extent and availability can vary.
In matters of judicial proceedings, Bushton falls under the jurisdiction of the Rice County District Court, which handles a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, and family matters. Court records can be requested through the court's online portal, where users can search for cases and documents. Alternatively, individuals may visit the court clerk's office in person to request records directly, with clerks available to assist in navigating the records system. For vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, residents should contact the Rice County Clerk-Recorder’s Office or consult the Kansas Vital Records website for comprehensive information. Property records are maintained by the county assessor and recorder, with online access also available for those looking to research property ownership and transactions. Additionally, Bushton residents can utilize the Kansas Open Records Act to submit public records requests for various documents not readily available to the public. Typically, these requests are processed within 5 to 10 business days, ensuring that residents have timely access to the information they seek while upholding transparency in local governance.
About Bushton
Bushton is a small city located in the northeastern portion of Rice County, Kansas, approximately 15 miles northeast of the county seat, Lyons. Incorporated in 1887, Bushton was established along the Missouri Pacific Railroad and developed as an agricultural service center for the surrounding wheat and grain farming region. With a population of approximately 270 residents as of recent estimates, Bushton remains a tight-knit rural community characterized by grain elevators, wide main streets, and traditional Kansas prairie landscape. The city lies along U.S.
Route 56, providing direct access to larger communities such as Great Bend to the west and McPherson to the east. Bushton is served by Central Plains USD 112 and maintains a volunteer fire department, community center, and post office as its primary civic institutions. Public records for Bushton residents are maintained through a combination of city, county, and state agencies. The Bushton City Hall, located at 118 Main Street, Bushton, KS 67427, handles municipal records including city ordinances, meeting minutes, utility billing, and basic business licensing for activities within city limits. Law enforcement services are provided by the Rice County Sheriff's Office, which maintains arrest records, incident reports, and dispatch logs for the Bushton area. Most property records, vital records, court filings, and election administration are managed by Rice County offices located in Lyons, the county seat. Kansas Open Records Act (K.S.A. 45-215 et seq.) governs public access to these documents, ensuring residents can request and obtain copies of government records with limited exemptions for privacy and ongoing investigations.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Law enforcement in Bushton, Rice County is provided by the Rice County Sheriff's Office and several municipal police departments. The Lyons Police Department serves the city of Lyons, while the Sterling Police Department covers the city of Sterling. Each department is responsible for maintaining public safety within its jurisdiction, handling local crime, and collaborating with the Sheriff's Office on county-wide issues. These agencies work together on major investigations and emergency response efforts to ensure comprehensive coverage across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Rice County Jail, located in Lyons, is the primary detention facility in the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are processed and held pending court appearances or bail. Inmate information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, which provides details on current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring prior scheduling and adherence to security protocols. The bond process follows Kansas state guidelines, allowing for the posting of bail to secure an inmate's release pending trial.
Court Records
Bushton residents are served by the Rice County District Court, part of the 20th Judicial District of Kansas, located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2232. The District Court has jurisdiction over all criminal felony cases, civil matters exceeding $10,000, domestic relations including divorce and child custody, probate and estate matters, juvenile offenses, and appeals from municipal courts.
Bushton does not operate its own municipal court; minor traffic violations and city ordinance violations occurring within Bushton city limits are typically handled through the Rice County District Court or dismissed with payment of fines. The Kansas Judicial Branch offers online access to court records through the state's case search portal at www.kansas.gov/kscourts, where users can search by party name, case number, or attorney to view docket entries, hearing dates, judgments, and case status for both criminal and civil matters. The system provides free viewing, though detailed documents may require in-person access or certified copies. Filing fees as of 2025 include $195 for civil case filings, $155.50 for small claims actions (under $4,000), and variable probate filing fees depending on estate value. Certified copies of court documents cost $1.50 per page plus a $2.00 certificate fee. Marriage licenses are issued through the District Court Clerk's office at the same Lyons address, and divorce records become part of the permanent court file accessible through the case search system.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Rice County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, maintained by the Rice County Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). The KBI provides a centralized database for background checks, accessible to residents and employers seeking comprehensive criminal history information. The county also maintains a sex offender registry, ensuring public awareness and safety. Access to these records is governed by the Kansas Open Records Act, which outlines the procedures for requesting criminal history information.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Rice County are maintained by the Rice County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges filed, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and legal representatives can request copies of arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, following the procedures outlined by the Kansas Open Records Act. Arrest records provide a comprehensive account of the incident, including the date, location, and nature of the offense.
Public Records Access
Property and land records for Bushton are maintained by Rice County offices in Lyons. The Rice County Appraiser's Office, located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2258, maintains property assessment records including parcel identification numbers, legal descriptions, ownership information, assessed valuations, property classifications, and building characteristics.
The county provides free online access to property records through the Rice County Appraiser website at www.ricecounty.us/appraiser.html, where users can search by owner name, parcel number, or property address to view current assessments, tax valuations, sales history, and property photos. The online database includes interactive GIS mapping allowing users to view parcel boundaries, aerial imagery, and surrounding properties. For recorded land documents including warranty deeds, mortgage instruments, liens, easements, rights-of-way, and other encumbrances, the Rice County Register of Deeds maintains the official records at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2647. The Register of Deeds office provides online access to recorded documents through a subscription-based system; some counties in Kansas offer free viewing but Rice County may charge fees for document images. Walk-in searches at the Register of Deeds office are free, with copy fees of $1.00 per page for uncertified copies and additional fees for certified documents. The office indexes records by grantor, grantee, book and page, and legal description, with digital records dating back to the 1990s and microfiche/paper records extending to the county's establishment.
Economy & Demographics
Bushton's economy remains fundamentally agricultural, centered on wheat, corn, and soybean production that dominates the surrounding Rice County landscape. Major employers within or serving the Bushton area include grain cooperatives and agricultural service providers, with the nearest large-scale employers located in Great Bend (approximately 25 miles west) including the Great Bend Tribune, St. Rose Hospital, and various retail and manufacturing concerns.
Central Plains USD 112 serves the Bushton area and provides educational employment, though the district's main facilities are located in nearby Claflin. The median household income for Bushton is estimated at approximately $50,000-$55,000, slightly below the Kansas state median, reflecting the rural agricultural character and smaller population base. Rice County overall maintains an economy heavily dependent on agriculture and related industries, with some oil and gas production contributing to the tax base. Bushton's small population and distance from major highway corridors has limited commercial development, but the community maintains essential services including a post office, volunteer fire department, and community center. The city has experienced gradual population decline consistent with broader rural Kansas trends, with younger residents often relocating to larger urban centers for employment and educational opportunities. Recent economic activity has focused on maintaining existing agricultural infrastructure and supporting the needs of local farming operations, with grain storage and transportation remaining critical economic functions.
Law Enforcement & Arrest Records
Bushton does not maintain its own municipal police department; law enforcement services for the city are provided by the Rice County Sheriff's Office, located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2911. The Sheriff's Office has jurisdiction over all unincorporated areas of Rice County and provides contract policing services to smaller municipalities including Bushton. Residents can request police reports, incident records, and accident reports by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly during business hours or by submitting a written request. The office maintains records of calls for service, criminal investigations, traffic enforcement, and civil process service. For arrest and jail booking information, the Rice County Sheriff's Office operates a detention facility at the same Lyons address. While Rice County does not currently maintain a comprehensive online inmate roster, booking information including names, charges, bond amounts, and booking dates can be obtained by calling the jail at (620) 257-2911 or visiting in person. Under the Kansas Open Records Act (K.S.A. 45-215 through 45-223), most law enforcement records are considered public unless they fall under specific exemptions such as ongoing investigations, victim information, or confidential informant data. Requests must be made in writing and the agency has three business days to respond, though they may extend this timeline for complex requests. Fees for copying records are established by statute at 25 cents per page for standard copies.
Vital Records
Vital records for Bushton residents are managed at both county and state levels depending on the record type. Birth and death certificates in Kansas are maintained by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Office of Vital Statistics, 1000 SW Jackson Street, Suite 120, Topeka, KS 66612, phone (785) 296-1400. Birth certificates cost $15 for the first copy and $15 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously, while death certificates cost $15 each. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks for mail requests.
Online ordering is available through the VitalChek service at www.kdhe.ks.gov/vitals, with expedited service available for additional fees. Kansas law restricts access to certified birth and death certificates to the registrant (if of legal age), immediate family members, legal representatives, or individuals with a direct and tangible interest, requiring valid government-issued photo identification. Birth records are available from July 1911 forward, and death records from July 1911 forward, though delayed birth certificates for earlier dates may exist. Marriage licenses for Bushton residents are issued by the Rice County District Court Clerk, 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2232. The marriage license fee is $85.50, valid for six months from issuance, with a three-day waiting period waived if both applicants complete a qualified premarital education program. Marriage records are public and can be searched through the court clerk's office. Divorce records are maintained as court records through the Rice County District Court and can be accessed through the Kansas court case search system or by requesting copies from the clerk's office, with certified copies available for $1.50 per page plus certificate fees.
Business & Licensing Records
Business and licensing requirements for Bushton operate at city, county, and state levels. The City of Bushton requires business licenses for certain commercial activities within city limits; inquiries should be directed to Bushton City Hall, 118 Main Street, Bushton, KS 67427, phone (620) 562-3361. Municipal business license fees and requirements vary by business type, and the city clerk can provide current fee schedules and application forms.
Rice County does not maintain a separate business licensing system for unincorporated businesses, though certain activities such as alcoholic beverage sales require county approval. Fictitious business name registrations (Doing Business As or DBA filings) in Kansas are filed with the Kansas Secretary of State rather than at the county level. The Kansas Business Center provides online filing and search capabilities at www.sos.ks.gov/business, where users can register business entities, file annual reports, and search existing business names. Corporation, LLC, limited partnership, and trade name searches are available free online through the Business Entity Search portal, showing entity status, registered agent information, formation date, and principal office address. Formation fees include $90 for domestic LLCs, $90 for domestic corporations, and $165 for foreign (out-of-state) entities registering to do business in Kansas. UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) financing statements and lien searches are also filed with the Kansas Secretary of State and searchable through the UCC search system at https://www.kansas.gov/ucc/. For property tax information relevant to business owners with commercial real estate in Bushton, the Rice County Appraiser's office at (620) 257-2258 provides assessment data and the Rice County Treasurer at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2411, handles tax collections and provides payment history for commercial parcels.
Elections & Voter Records
Bushton voters are served by the Rice County Clerk's Office, which administers all elections for county, state, and federal races. The Rice County Clerk is located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, KS 67554, phone (620) 257-2232, website www.ricecounty.us. Kansas residents can register to vote online through the Kansas Secretary of State's website at www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/VoterReg/Default.aspx, by mail using a printed registration form, or in person at the County Clerk's office. The registration deadline is 21 days before any election, and voters must provide their Kansas driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Bushton holds municipal elections for mayor and city council positions; these elections typically occur in odd-numbered years on the first Tuesday in April, with the next municipal election scheduled for April 2027. Candidate filings for Bushton city offices are submitted to the Rice County Clerk, and information about local candidates and ballot questions is available at the clerk's office or through the city clerk at Bushton City Hall. Bushton voters cast ballots at their assigned polling place, which can be located using the Kansas Secretary of State's polling place lookup tool at www.sos.ks.gov or by contacting the Rice County Clerk. In the November 2024 presidential election, Rice County reported approximately 65-70% voter turnout, consistent with rural Kansas participation rates, with results heavily favoring Republican candidates as is typical for the region. For the November 3, 2026 general election, Bushton and Rice County voters will decide races including Kansas Governor (term expires 2027), Kansas state legislature positions (state senate and house districts covering Rice County), and various county offices including county commissioner, sheriff, clerk, treasurer, and register of deeds depending on the election cycle. Kansas does not have a U.S. Senate seat up for election in 2026, as Senator Jerry Moran's term expires in 2028 and Senator Roger Marshall's in 2026 was just filled in 2024. Kansas offers advance voting by mail for any registered voter; applications for advance ballots can be submitted to the Rice County Clerk beginning 90 days before an election, with the ballot application deadline seven days before election day and completed ballots due by 7:00 p.m. on election day. Election records including voter registration lists (with limited personal information redacted), campaign finance reports, candidate filings, and precinct-level results are public records available through the County Clerk's office and the Kansas Secretary of State at www.sos.ks.gov. Kansas law (K.S.A. 25-2316 and 25-1122) governs public access to election records, with voter registration data available for purchase for political and election-related purposes but restricted from commercial use.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 7.8/10 — Rice County provides good online access to property assessments, court records through the Kansas state portal, and business entity searches, though arrest logs and some recorder documents require direct contact with county offices for full access.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Bushton, Rice County, Kansas to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Bushton, Kansas, you will be transported to the Rice County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Rice County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Rice County Clerk of Courts for case information.
2 What are the school district and education performance data for Bushton, Rice County, Kansas?
The Bushton area is served by public school districts in Rice County, Kansas. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Kansas Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
3 What are the crime statistics for Bushton, Rice County, Kansas?
Crime statistics for Bushton, Kansas are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Bushton Police Department on their official website. The Kansas Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
4 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Bushton, Rice County, Kansas Library?
The Bushton Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Kansas government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
5 Where is the Bushton, Rice County, Kansas Public Library located?
The Bushton Public Library main branch is located in Bushton, Kansas. Check the Bushton city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
6 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Bushton, Rice County, Kansas?
Fingerprinting services in Bushton, Kansas are available through the Bushton Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Rice County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
7 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Bushton, Rice County, Kansas, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records in Bushton, Kansas, contact the Kansas Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Rice County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
8 About Police Reports
Police reports from Bushton, Kansas can be obtained from the Bushton Police Department or the Rice County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Kansas Open Records Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Kansas DMV.
9 About background check
A background check in Bushton, Rice County, Kansas typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Kansas criminal history report through the Kansas Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.