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Oberlin is located in Northwest Kansas, just 12 miles from the Nebraska border and 81 miles from the Colorado border. As the seat of Decatur County, Oberlin offers a welcoming environment with amenities for all ages, from nature walks to golden age activities. The city covers approximately 1.5 square miles and is surrounded by the scenic Kansas prairie and agricultural fields. Decatur County is home to about 2,700 people, with 1,650 residing in Oberlin.

Oberlin boasts an excellent school system, providing K-12 education through local district campuses. The community also includes a small Christian school and several home-schooled families. Several daycare providers serve the area, including county and school-operated centers.

If you are seeking a supportive rural community with a high quality of life, excellent schools, and opportunities for all ages, Oberlin may be the perfect fit for you!

About the Police Department

The Oberlin Police Department (OPD) is a dedicated team of four full-time Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs). Each full-time sworn LEO is assigned a vehicle and responds to calls as needed. The Sheriff’s Office maintains a 12-bed jail facility in the courthouse, located in Oberlin, which the OPD may utilize. While it is preferred that OPD officers live within city limits for on-call coverage and emergency callout needs, requests for outside residency may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The OPD and the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office enjoy an excellent working relationship. All city OPD officers are currently sworn deputy sheriffs with authority throughout the county.

About the Job

The Police Officer serves as a front-line representative of the City of Oberlin, responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and fostering trust within the community. Under the direction of the Chief of Police, officers perform a wide range of duties including patrol, emergency response, investigation, and community engagement.

This role requires integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to ethical law enforcement in a rural setting. Officers are expected to uphold the values of transparency, professionalism, and service while working collaboratively with residents, businesses, and regional partners.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 21 years of age
• Meet all standards and qualifications to be a certified Law Enforcement Officer in the State of Kansas
• Ability to possess a Kansas CPOST Full-Time LEO certificate
• Be in good standing with KS CPOST if currently certified in Kansas

Salary and Benefits

• Starting pay: $37,500 to $62,000 DOQ

• Overtime pay after 86.67 hours worked

• Call-out pay

• Pay increase upon successful completion of the Police Academy

• Room for advancement

• Paid vacation, sick, funeral, and personal days

• Full Medical/Dental/Vision benefits paid by the City for the employee

• Family benefit plans available at additional cost

• City cafeteria plan available

• City Sick Bank available for voluntary participation

• Paid MASA Ambulance transport insurance plan

• Paid Life Insurance policy

• KPERS Retirement

• $1,000 moving incentive

• Uniforms and safety equipment provided

• Assigned take-home vehicle provided

• Modern equipment and technology, including:

  • Modern patrol fleet of Dodge Durango’s
  • New body cameras
  • Modern radar equipment
  • Modern radio equipment on the state 800MHz radio system
  • CAD and RMS/JMS system brought online in 2023
  • In-car laptops with CAD and RMS access

How to Apply

If you are excited about the opportunity to serve and grow with our community, we encourage you to apply! For questions or to express your interest, please contact Police Chief Brad Burmaster at policechief@oberlinkansas.gov or (785)475-2217. CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE

If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know.

Diversity & Inclusion

The City of Oberlin is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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Weatherization improves energy efficiency and lowers utility bills by ensuring your home holds in heat and air conditioning while keeping hot and cold air out. Eligible households receive a comprehensive home energy audit to identify inefficiencies and health and safety concerns. Based on a home’s audit results, improvements may include:

• Sealing of drafts and air leaks, caulking doors, and windows, weather-stripping
• Testing, cleaning, and repairs of heating and cooling systems and water heaters
• Adding insulation to ceilings, walls, floors, and foundations
• Lighting, refrigerator, and fan upgrades

All services and upgrades are provided free of charge by certified energy auditors and a network of professional crews and contractors.

For more information on eligibility, contact North Central Regional Planning Commission at 800-432-0303 or online at https://www.ncrpc.org/services/housing/weatherization/

The KMEA financing program is aimed to give cities an option when a large project, like the purchase of new generation, a substation upgrade, or similar capital-intensive project, is needed for the utility.  KMEA assumes the project-related debt on behalf of the city.  The city reimburses KMEA through a capacity contract payment that is simply included on KMEA’s normal monthly power supply bill.

“The City of Oberlin’s staff and governing body placed their trust in KMEA to get this project off the ground.  The process was long and tedious and there were several opportunities for the city to step away from the project, but they were as determined as KMEA to get this done.” says Gerry Bieker, managing director of electric operations.

Congratulations to the city of Oberlin as it reaches another project milestone.  The new engines are expected to be fully operational by the spring of 2024.

Nex-Tech is currently completing fiber Internet construction in rural Decatur County as part of a 2023 Capital Project Fund (CPF) grant project. Nex-Tech has seen the need for fiber in Oberlin and has received tremendous community support, allowing them to make this investment. “Oberlin has been very supportive of Nex-Tech and has been requesting fiber services, and we are thrilled to finally make this project happen,” said Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement at Nex-Tech. “We are dedicated to providing top-tier services and supporting the growth of the communities we serve.”

Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO, and Terry Peterson, Director of Field Operations, announced the news at the Oberlin city council meeting on November 21. City Clerk, Megan Ketterl had this to say about the announcement, “The City of Oberlin is thrilled Nex-Tech is investing in advanced fiber connectivity for our community. This initiative is a game-changer for Oberlin. Nex-Tech’s fiber network will not only support our current residents but also attract a growing number of remote workers eager to experience all that Oberlin has to offer. We believe that with improved fiber connectivity, Oberlin can become a vibrant hub for remote workers and digital nomads seeking a unique blend of rural charm and modern conveniences. We are enthusiastic about collaborating with Nex-Tech to bring this vision to life and are confident that this enhancement will greatly benefit our community. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of connectivity in Oberlin, Kansas.”

Residents can expect to see preliminary work beginning in the next few weeks, as engineering contractors will begin measuring, marking, and planning the project. This initial work is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient build process. Following the engineering will be the construction phase, in which the main line fiber and individual fiber lines to homes will be placed. This will be followed by splicing the fiber connections, and finally, in-home installations.

In addition to the fiber build, Nex-Tech is pleased to reveal plans for a Nex-Tech store opening in Oberlin in early 2025, solidifying its commitment to the community. The building at 217 N Penn Avenue has been owned by Nex-Tech for several years. The building is home to one of the newest murals in town. In preparation to serve the Oberlin community, Nex-Tech will make renovations and will open a retail space for residents to sign up for services and get support. Nex-Tech offers a wide range of services in addition to Internet including streaming TV, security and surveillance, home phone, managed IT services, and marketing solutions.

Oberlin residents who would like to pre-sign-up for Nex-Tech’s fiber services can easily do so by visiting: nex-tech.com/oberlin

Nex-Tech has a rich history of pioneering fiber broadband in Northwest Kansas. Starting in 1996, Nex-Tech became the first U.S. service provider to connect a rural community with fiber-to-the-home. This groundbreaking achievement set a new standard and inspired rural providers nationwide to pursue fiber connectivity. Over the years, Nex-Tech has continued to expand its fiber network, connecting homes, businesses, and institutions in previously underserved areas. Today, Nex-Tech remains committed to delivering robust fiber connectivity and advancing digital equity in rural communities

To aid the City of Oberlin in completing the directory, please email obituaries, a photo, and military information to ubclerk@oberlinkansas.gov

This project was first approved by the Oberlin governing body on December 15, 2022.   This is the first generation project utilizing the KMEA financing structure.  This structure allows the city to utilize KMEA to bond the capital for the construction cost.  The city will see that debt obligation as a capacity charge on the monthly bill from KMEA.     

“Oberlin is set for the future with new, user-friendly, and reliable power generation. With partnerships from KMEA, KMEA-Mid States, CAT, “The Bank” and many others, Oberlin will no longer be subjected to lengthy power outages and now has the opportunity to claim 6 MW of inhouse generation as well as retaining $60,000 per year in savings from utilities needed to keep the old plant “run ready”. This strategic move not only ensures uninterrupted power supply but also signifies a significant step towards financial efficiency and sustainability for Oberlin”. Says Oberlin Co-Administrator David Sporn.  KMEA would like to congratulate the city of Oberlin on the investment into the electric utility that will benefit the community for generations to come.

Original post by KMEA

Tract # 1: Approximately 49.87 acres of tillable land on the Southeast Quarter of Section Thirty-five (35), Township Two (2) South, Range Twenty-nine (29) West of the 6th P.M. Proposal should be based upon a set number of dollars per acre for a lease term starting March 1, 2026, and ending July 31, 2029. Map provided below.

Tract # 2: Approximately eight acres of pasture land located east of Oberlin on the north side of US Highway 36, just west of the gun club, in Section 31-2-28 for a lease term starting March 1, 2026, and ending July 31, 2029. Map provided below.

Submit proposals to the City of Oberlin, 1 Morgan Drive, Oberlin, Kansas 67749, not later than Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 2:00 pm in a sealed envelope marked “LAND PROPOSAL.” The bid opening will take place on November 4, 2025, at 2:15 p.m. in the City Manager’s Office.

https://oberlinkansas.gov/uploads/2025ccr.pdf

• Notice of Hearing to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate and Budget Hearing
• 2026 Budget - Working Copy

Water demand on May 1st exceeded 500,000 gallons per day, triggering the first stage of the city’s drought response. Stage 1 of water conservation consists of voluntary measures including, but not limited to: curtailing outdoor water use and making efficient use of indoor water, i.e. only wash full loads of laundry, take short showers, don’t let faucets run, etc.

For more water conservation tips, visit https://oberlinkansas.gov/uploads/water-conservation-tips.pdf or https://www.epa.gov/watersense/start-saving

A monitoring violation occurred because the System failed to notify KDHE that it had completed the notification trifold deadline date. As our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we are doing to correct this situation.

What does this mean? This is simply a clerical error. The appropriate customers were notified, but we did not notify KDHE that the notifications were complete, resulting in the violation.

What is being done? We have already handed out the 2025 trifold notification letters to affected customers and have certified with KDHE their delivery. This is just a formality.

We anticipate resolving the problem as soon as these letters are sent to all customers in the city.

What is this for?

On January 15, 2021, the EPA promulgated the first major update to the Lead and Copper Rule, known as the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Pursuant to 40 C.F.R 141.84(a), the LCRR requires, among other things, that community and non-transient non-community water systems must develop an inventory to identify the materials of service lines connected to the public water distribution systems regardless of ownership status and water systems must notify customers of known or potential service line containing lead is present within 30 days of competition of the initial Lead Service Line Inventory. Health effects of lead: Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems or worsen existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these negative health effects. Adults can have increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney, or nervous system problems.

What should you do if you are concerned about lead?

1. Use a water filter Using a filter can reduce lead in drinking water. If you use a filter, it should be certified to remove lead. Read any directions provided with the filter to learn how to properly install, maintain, and use your cartridge and when to replace it. Using the cartridge after it has been expired can make it less effective at removing lead. Do not run hot water through the filter that you use for drinking or cooking.
2. Clean your aerator Regularly clean your faucet’s screen. Sediment debris and lead particles can collect in your aerator. If lead particles are caught in the aerator, lead can get into your water. Turn on full flow to let water run after cleaning. After replacing the clean aerator, turn on full flow to let water rush to flush loose particles after cleaning before drinking.
3. Use cold water Do not use hot water from the tap for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula as lead dissolves more easily into hot water. Boiling water does not remove lead from water.
4. Run your water If your water has been sitting in the pipes for more than 18 hours, the more lead it may contain. Before drinking, let the water run for at least 30 seconds or until the temperature changes.
5. If you’re concerned about construction disturbing your service lines Contact your water system to find out about any construction or maintenance work that could disturb your service lines. Construction may cause more lead to be released from a lead service line or galvanized service line if lead is present.
6. If you want your water tested Contact your water system to learn about your options for having your water tested for lead.
7. Get your child tested to determine lead levels in their blood. A family doctor, pediatrician, or your County Health Department can perform a childhood blood lead level test and provide information about the health effects of lead. KDHE can also provide information about how you can have your child’s blood tested for lead.
8. Replace lead service lines or galvanized requiring replacement service lines. If you replace your service lines, make sure to use filters for 6 months after service line replacement. For questions on filters, contact your water system.

For more information, please contact: City of Oberlin 1 Morgan Dr. Oberlin, KS 67749 785-475-2217

This notice is being sent to you by CITY OF OBERLIN, #KS2003903 Date Distributed: 1/22/2026

Click here to view the Request for Proposal packet.

Please always use due diligence when purchasing goods and services online.

If you have been the victim of an internet scam, please report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center: https://www.ic3.gov/

Be aware that you may experience sediment or discoloration in your water, which is unpleasant but not harmful. If you experience discoloration or sediment, run water through your lines to clear it.

Questions? Call 785-475-2217

View entire Ordinance 758

View entire City Code

Click here to request more information about Rural & Remote

DEA personnel will never contact members of the public or medical practitioners to demand money or any other form of payment, will never request personal or sensitive information, and will only notify people of a legitimate investigation or legal action in person or by official letter. In fact, no legitimate federal law enforcement officer will demand cash or gift cards from a member of the public. You should only give money, gift cards, personally identifiable information, including bank account information, to someone you know.

Anyone receiving a call from a person claiming to be with DEA should report the incident to the FBI at www.ic3.gov.  The Federal Trade Commission provides recovery steps, shares information with more than 3,000 law enforcement agencies and takes reports at reportfraud.ftc.gov.  

For any victims who have given personally identifiable information like a social security number to the caller, can learn how to protect against identity theft at www.identitytheft.gov.

https://www.dea.gov/scam-alert

The City of Oberlin was recently made aware of an Oberlin resident who received an unsolicited mailing from the National Police Association. The envelope exclaims, “Oberlin City Council Members need to hear from you!” The letter enclosed claims to be soliciting donations to benefit our local police department. The City of Oberlin and Oberlin Police Department are not involved with the National Police Association and do not benefit from these solicitations.

Questionable fundraisers and scams are becoming more frequent in our digital age. Please exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of any solicitation. Remain vigilant and cautious when receiving unsolicited correspondence or donation requests. If you have any questions, contact the City of Oberlin at 785-475-2217.

Johnson Service Company will begin sanitary sewer cleaning and CCTV inspection, beginning May 9th as part of the sewer revitalization project.

Please look for hang tags throughout the next month to let you know when the project will be in your area, and follow the instruction on the tag.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION

SORRY FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE

We received 739 responses to our water service line survey, which was conducted to identify lead-contaminated water lines. Thank you to all of our customers who completed their surveys. This project is ongoing, and surveys are still being completed and accepted.

For the completed City of Oberlin water line inventory, go to: https://oberlinkansas.gov/uploads/oberlin-lead-copper-inventory-final.pdf

The City of Oberlin needs this information as soon as possible. If the required information cannot be gathered promptly from the homeowner, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) may require city employees to excavate customers’ yards to identify materials, making the process very time-consuming and expensive.

The City of Oberlin needs your help to complete this requirement. Please complete one survey per property. The survey will need to be returned along with a photo of the water line coming into the building as soon as possible. Surveys can be completed online. CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE YOUR SURVEY ONLINE

For more information on this survey and a guide to identifying plumbing materials, go to our Survey Informational Guide.CLICK HERE TO VIEW OR PRINT SURVEY INFORMATIONAL GUIDE.

If you would like a printed copy of the survey, call 785-475-2217.