Welcome to Clay Center, “The City Beautiful”
Clay Center is the county seat of Clay County. It is located at the junction of U.S.-24 and K-15, an intersection where you’ll find a strong and vibrant community featuring cultural events, an aquatic park, a city zoo, public library, beautiful golf courses, a municipal airport, retail and specialty stores. You’ll find excitement everywhere you look.
New Resident
No matter what brings you to Clay Center, we are so glad you are here, and want to get to know you! We hope you will feel most welcome in our town. If you have questions, let us know.
Parks
Our City offers three beautiful park areas with several attractions for both adults and children to enjoy. Some feature covered picnic areas, shade trees, walking trails and even a zoo.
Aquatic Park
Clay Center Aquatic Park offers something for the whole family with a lazy river, family slide, 1-meter and 3-meter boards and two large slides, all in a heated, zero-depth entry pool.
Government
The mayor and council are the governing body for the City of Clay Center. There are four wards, two council members per ward. The governing body meets twice per month.
Contact Us
View a list of contacts for quick reference. We can be reached by email or phone during regular business hours. You can also stop by our office at 427 Court Street in Clay Center.
Online Payments
Pay fees online for a quick and easy secure transaction. Once you have submitted your payment, you will receive an email from us. Make a payment by phone at (877) 685-4493.
News & Announcements
REDUCED-COST RABIES SHOTS AND DOG TAGS
The City of Clay Center, in partnership with Court St Vet, is offering two days of reduced-cost rabies vaccinations and city dog tag registration. Join us Thursday January 29 (1–5 PM) or Friday, February 20 (8 AM–12 PM) at 618 Court St. Rabies shots are $42.50; dog tags are $5–$10. Leash and payment required (cash or check). Questions? Call (785) 632-5454.
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JOB POSTINGS
The Clay Center Police Department is accepting applications for 1 full-time patrol officer. The department offers a sign-on bonus, and a generous benefit package which includes paid BC/BS insurance. To apply for or inquire about the positions, contact Chief Bill Robinson at 785 632-2121, or email citypolicedept@claycenterks.com. The City of Clay Center is an equal opportunity employer.
The City of Clay Center is seeking a full-time Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Operator. Candidates should have mechanical aptitude and must be able to obtain a Class II Wastewater Operator Certification within two (2) years of hire. The successful applicant must also pass a post-offer Physical Capacity Test. Starting wage is dependent upon qualifications and experience. The position includes a generous benefits package, including BC/BS health insurance. Applications may be obtained at City Hall, 427 Court Street and must be returned to City Hall by April 1st, 2026 at 12:00 pm for consideration. The City of Clay Center is an equal opportunity employer.
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HOLIDAY CLOSURES & TRASH SCHEDULE CHANGES
The City of Clay Center will observe the following closures and schedule changes. Have trash out early, pick-up times may vary.
2026 Closures
Thursday Jan 1- Closed; trash pick up Wednesday December 31st
Monday January 19th– Closed; trash pick up Wednesday January 21st
Monday Feb 16th-Closed; trash pick up Wednesday Feb 18th
Monday May 25th – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday May 27th
Friday June 19th -Closed; trash pick up Wednesday June 17th
Friday July 3rd – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday July 1st
Monday Sept 7th – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday Sept 9th
Wednesday Nov 11th – Closed
Thursday Nov 26th – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday Nov 25th
Friday Nov 27th – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday Nov 25th
Thurs Dec 24th – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday Dec 23rd
Friday December 25th – Closed; trash pick up Wednesday Dec 23rd
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TRAVEL & TOURISM WEBSITE
Check out our Clay County Travel & Tourism website for information on our murals, things to do and places to dine! https://www.claycokansas.com/
A Community of Distinction
We’ve been featured in the “Communities of Distinction” program, as well as having been chosen as a feature community for “League of Kansas Municipalities.” These feature pieces take viewers into some of the best little cities and town in the United States – towns just like ours. With its quality education system, fiber-optic Internet, modern amenities and retail and specialty stores, Clay Center is a perfect place for individuals and families who want to enjoy the best that small town living has to offer. Check out our town in the videos below!