The city of Hays is launching a web-based notification system, “Nixle,” to send timely information to residents via text/SMS and e-mail.  Nixle will be used as the primary resource for distributing information from this point forward.

I-T Coordinator Chad Ruder believes people will appreciate being immediately aware of updates and changes that may affect them.  “Finding out via your cell phone that a street is closed should be more helpful.”

Ruder says the city began thinking about utilizing the system after high wind recently forced  cancellation of the refuse/recycling collection.

If you want to “opt in” for the service, go to the city’s web page at www.haysusa.com and click on the “Notify Me” button.  Text only users can also opt in by texting keyword Hays to 888777.

Although the program is free to use, Ruder cautions that any text and data rates for your particular cellular phone plan will apply.