Jason Ward Renews Concession Contract at Great Bend Sports Complex

Local concessionaire to continue operating food services at city's sports facilities

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Great Bend City Council has approved a lease agreement with Jason Ward to operate and manage the concession area at the city's Sports Complex for another year. Ward, who has held the concession contract for the past five years, was selected over another proposal from a Kansas City-area vendor based on his local ties, cheaper pricing, and familiarity with the facility's needs.

Why it matters

The concession contract is an important revenue source for the city's Sports Complex, which hosts a variety of baseball, softball, and other sporting events throughout the year. Maintaining a reliable and affordable concession service is crucial for attracting visitors and supporting the local sports community.

The details

Under the new lease agreement, Ward will pay the city 10% of gross concession receipts and be responsible for all normal maintenance of the concession area. He plans to keep the same pricing and menu items as last year, which he says have had a positive impact on attendance and satisfaction among fans, players, coaches, and umpires. Ward has over 13 years of food service experience, including as an assistant manager at a local Braum's Ice Cream and Dairy Store.

  • The Great Bend City Council approved the concession lease agreement at their February 17, 2026 meeting.
  • The new concession contract with Jason Ward will run for the 2026 season.

The players

Jason Ward

The concessionaire who will operate the food services at the Great Bend Sports Complex for the 2026 season, having held the contract for the previous five years.

Roger Ward

The manager of the Great Bend Bat Cats baseball team, who has a separate facility use agreement to use Al Burns Field at the Sports Complex.

Scott Keeler

The Great Bend Public Works Director, who was listed as a reference by Jason Ward in his concession proposal.

Chris Umphres

The Great Bend Recreation Commission Director, who was listed as a reference by Jason Ward in his concession proposal.

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What they’re saying

“I have operated and managed the concession area for the previous five years, and I feel that the concession has had a positive impact on the visits to the Sports Complex by the fans, players, coaches, and umpires during that time.”

— Jason Ward (gbtribune.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.