County Commission

County Commission meeting, Monday, July 20, 2009
Julie Merklin observing

All members were present.
The Board discussed a proposed regional planning group to include Riley County, Manhattan, KSU, Geary County, Ft. Riley and several other area entities. It would be funded by these entities in proportion to their population, the budget to be between $350,000 and $400,000. It would function as a point of contact between the participating groups and the agencies or entities that offer grants. It was decided that a work session should be held to investigate all of the possible ramifications of a regional planning group.

Clancy Holeman said that the Riley County Prescription Card is now available. It is free of charge, with no age or income limits. This card offers an average of 20% savings on regular priced common prescriptions and also a savings of up to 50% on 90 day supplies through mail service. Other savings are also available. Information at participating pharmacies, a list of which is available at www.rileycountyks.gov

Johnette Shepek presented the proposed budget for 2009-2010. The proposed mil levy is 31.234 which is 1.165 mils higher than the 2008-2009 year. This is necessary to make up for the expected revenue shortfall.

County Commission meeting Thursday, July 23, 2009
Julie Merklin observing

All members were present.
Karen McCulloh told the Board that she is looking forward to the National Association of Counties meeting in Nashville July 24-28 and hopes to bring back many ideas, especially concerning energy conservation..

The 4H Queen and King presented a cookie jar of prize winning cookies to the Commission and thanked them for their support of 4H.

Johnette Shepek updated the Commission on Capital Improvements, County Building, Economic Development and ½ cent Cent Sales Tax funds.

There was a presentation of plans for 7 wind turbines at the county shop site, 6215 Tuttle Creek Boulevard. It would be a research project of KSU which is applying for grant money from the US Dept. of Education. There are several varieties and power ratings proposed. Questions were raised about whether the turbines would encroach on land possibly to be used in the future for the county fair grounds as well as concerns about Fort Riley and their radar. There are also planning and zoning actions that the County will have to take. The Commission was supportive of the concept in general.