All links go directly to official Ulysses, Kansas government websites.
About Ulysses City Government
Annual Budget$5.1 million
The governing body of Ulysses, Kansas, is the Ulysses City Council, which consists of five elected members. Each council member is elected at-large for a term of four years. The council is responsible for making decisions on city policies, budgets, and ordinances that affect the community.
For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Ulysses is $5.1 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives. The city continuously reviews its financial strategies to ensure effective allocation of resources.
Regular city council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM. These meetings take place at the Ulysses City Hall, located at 505 N. Main Street, Ulysses, KS 67880. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
About Ulysses, Kansas
The city is also known for the Ulysses Community Center, which hosts various events and activities throughout the year, fostering community engagement. Economically, Ulysses has a strong agricultural base, with significant contributions from local farming operations, particularly in wheat and corn production. Historically, Ulysses was established in the late 19th century and has evolved into a central hub for commerce and services in the region, making it a vital part of Grant County's identity.
Ulysses, Kansas Public Records & Government Resources
900 SW Jackson - 4th Floor Landon State Office Building Topeka, KS 66612-1284 (785) 296-3317 Toll-free Kansas & Missouri
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement throughout Grant County relies on coordination between the Sheriff's Office and the Ulysses Police Department. The city department handles local ordinances and community policing within municipal boundaries, while both agencies work together on major investigations. This collaborative approach allows them to share resources and address crime more effectively across the area. The partnership between these two agencies reflects a commitment to public safety that serves both city and county residents.
Jail & Inmate Records
Grant County's primary detention facility sits in Ulysses, processing individuals arrested throughout Grant County. The booking process follows standard procedures including fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information. Family members and legal representatives can access inmate lookup services through the Sheriff's Office to locate current detainees. Visitation at the facility requires advance scheduling and compliance with security protocols. Bond and bail procedures follow Kansas state guidelines, which may allow for release under specific conditions.
Arrest Records
The Grant County Sheriff's Office maintains comprehensive arrest records documenting incidents throughout Grant County. These records capture details including charges filed and personal information about arrestees. Anyone seeking access to these documents can contact the Sheriff's Office directly, whether they're residents or attorneys. The Kansas Open Records Act governs how this information is released, balancing transparency with privacy protections. Typical records include arrest dates, specific charges, and which agency made the arrest.
Court Records
The City of Ulysses Municipal Court handles local traffic violations and misdemeanor cases for the community. Court records, including case files and hearing schedules, can be accessed through the court's website at https://www.cityofulysses.com/municipal-court. More serious criminal cases fall under the jurisdiction of the Grant County District Court.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Grant County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, as well as the sex offender registry. These records are maintained by the Grant County Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). Residents can request background checks through the KBI, which provides comprehensive criminal history reports. The KBI's database includes statewide information, offering Grant County residents access to records beyond their local jurisdiction. The sex offender registry is publicly accessible, ensuring community awareness and safety.
Public Records Access
Public records related to Ulysses city government, including council meetings, ordinances, and permits, are maintained by the municipality. The City Clerks Office provides access to these documents through https://www.cityofulysses.com/city-clerks-office. Historical records and community archives are available through the Ulysses Public Library. Residents seeking specific documents can submit requests to the appropriate department or office handling that type of record.
Vital Records
Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates for Ulysses and Grant County are maintained by the Kansas Office of Vital Statistics. Requests for these records can be made online or by mail. The Ulysses City Clerks Office may also have some limited vital record information available.
Business & Licensing Records
Companies operating in Ulysses must obtain proper licensing and permits from the city government. The City Clerks Office at https://www.cityofulysses.com/city-clerks-office provides access to business registration records along with information on local taxes and regulations. The Ulysses Chamber of Commerce maintains additional resources on local businesses and economic development opportunities throughout the community.
Economy & Demographics
Ulysses has a diverse economy with major industries including agriculture, energy, and manufacturing. Economic development data and information on local businesses can be found on the City of Ulysses website at https://www.cityofulysses.com. The Ulysses Chamber of Commerce also tracks economic indicators and provides resources for businesses in the area.
Elections & Voter Records
The Grant County Clerk and Election Officer administers all elections for Ulysses voters from the office at 108 South Glenn Street, Ulysses, KS 67880. Residents can reach the office by calling 620-356-1335 or visiting www.grantcountyks.org. The County Clerk handles voter registration, conducts federal, state, county, and local elections, maintains voting equipment, administers advance voting, processes mail-in ballots, and certifies results. Registration can be completed online through the Kansas Secretary of State's voter registration portal at www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/VoterReg/Default.aspx.
Kansas law requires registration at least 21 days before any election. Acceptable identification includes a Kansas driver's license or state-issued ID card, and applicants must provide their Kansas driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Municipal elections for mayor and city council positions typically occur in odd-numbered years, most recently in November 2023. The next city elections are scheduled for November 2025. Candidates file for office with the Grant County Election Office, and information about local candidates and ballot measures is available from the Grant County Clerk's office or the City of Ulysses. Residents can find their assigned polling place using the lookup tool at www.myvoteinfo.voteks.org or by calling the Grant County Clerk at 620-356-1335. Kansas makes several election records publicly accessible, including voter registration lists available for purchase for political purposes, campaign finance reports filed with the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission at www.kansas.gov/ethics, candidate filings and declarations, precinct-level results, and absentee ballot statistics. While individual ballot choices remain secret, voter history showing which elections a person participated in becomes public record. During the November 2024 presidential election, Grant County reported voter turnout of approximately 65-68%, with roughly 3,800-4,000 ballots cast out of approximately 5,800 registered voters, consistent with rural Kansas patterns. The November 3, 2026 general election will bring significant decisions for local voters. Kansas will not have a U.S. Senate seat up for election in 2026, as Senator Jerry Moran's term runs through 2028 and Senator Roger Marshall through 2026, with Marshall up for reelection. However, voters will decide state legislative races including Kansas House District 119, which includes Grant County. County offices on the ballot will include Grant County Commissioner positions, Grant County Clerk, Grant County Treasurer, Grant County Sheriff, Register of Deeds, and potentially Grant County Attorney. While no gubernatorial election occurs in 2026—Kansas governors serve four-year terms with the next election in 2026 being for the position currently held by Governor Laura Kelly—all Kansas House seats (125 total) are up for election. Residents can request advance mail ballots by submitting an application to the Grant County Clerk's office, with applications due by the Tuesday before Election Day. Kansas allows any registered voter to vote by mail without providing a reason, though valid ID must be provided when applying.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Limited: Online | Vital Records: Yes: Online Ordering | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.2/10 — Grant County and Kansas provide strong online access to court records, property data, business registrations, vital records ordering, and election information, though jail rosters and some law enforcement records require direct agency contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What are the school district and education performance data for Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas?
Public schools in Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas are administered by the local school district. For information about school enrollment, academic performance, and school ratings, residents should contact the Grant County school administration or the Kansas Department of Education. School district boundaries, student-teacher ratios, and test scores are available through the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
2What are the crime statistics for Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas?
Crime data for Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas is maintained by local law enforcement agencies. The Grant County Sheriff's Office and local police departments report crime statistics to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Residents can access crime data through the FBI Crime Data Explorer or by contacting local law enforcement directly. For specific crime reports or incident data, submit a public records request to the Ulysses police department or the Grant County Sheriff's Office.
3What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas Library?
The Ulysses Public Library provides access to various public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. Library patrons can access property records, court records, and genealogy resources through the library's reference section. The Grant County library system may offer additional branches and digital resources. Contact the library directly for hours, available databases, and research assistance.
4Where is the Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas Public Library located?
The Ulysses Public Library serves residents of Ulysses and the surrounding Grant County area in Kansas. Contact the library directly or visit the Grant County library system website for the current address, phone number, hours of operation, and available services.
5Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas?
Fingerprinting services for Ulysses, Kansas residents are available through the local police department and authorized third-party providers in Grant County. Fingerprinting is commonly required for background checks, professional licensing, employment screening, and immigration applications. Contact the Ulysses Police Department or the Grant County Sheriff's Office for scheduling, fees, and required documentation. The Kansas Department of Justice or state police may also process fingerprint-based background checks.
6What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Ulysses, Grant County, Kansas including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Grant County Clerk's office may also process vital record requests. You will need valid photo identification and proof of eligibility. Processing times and fees vary by office and request method.
7How do I register to vote in Ulysses, Kansas?
To register to vote in Ulysses, Kansas, residents can register online through the Kansas Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Grant County elections office. Kansas requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Kansas Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Ulysses, contact the Grant County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8How do I look up property records in Ulysses, Kansas?
Property records for Ulysses, Kansas are maintained by the Grant County Assessor's Office and the Grant County Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Grant County, including parcels in Ulysses. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Grant County Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Kansas counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Grant County offices at the county courthouse. The Grant County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9How do I get a birth or death certificate in Ulysses, Kansas?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Ulysses, Kansas residents are available through both county and state offices. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Office of Vital Statistics, located in Topeka, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Kansas. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Grant County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Grant County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10How do I find business license records in Ulysses, Kansas?
Business licensing for Ulysses, Kansas operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Ulysses town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Ulysses limits. Grant County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Kansas businesses must register with the Kansas Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Kansas Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Kansas licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Ulysses, contact the Ulysses clerk's office and the Grant County economic development office.
Other Cities in Kansas
Search public records in other cities across Kansas: