Riley County Commission

October 26, 2009
Joan Strickler, Observer

Commissioners Kearns and McCulloh present, Kearns chaired.

In an informal discussion it appeared the Agape Church tax delinquency matter may be resolved. Agape no longer owns the property, it now belongs to the bank and the bank has paid the overdue taxes. Arrangements may be made to reach a new agreement between the bank and Agape to allow use of the building. Agape had failed to file papers requesting tax free status with the State.

The Health Department is currently out of H1N1 vaccine but expects more to be available in the near future. The hospital emergency room has experienced a doubling in requests for services. In addition to the Health Department, the vaccine may be offered through private providers when supplies are adequate. Persons who believe they may have had the flu are encouraged to get the vaccine anyway.

Commissioner Johnson arrived at 10:20 a.m. and chaired the rest of the meeting. Budget and Finance Officer Johnette Shepek and Public Works Director Leon Hobson discussed concerns about budget overruns in the RCPD budget. An estimated $60,000 to $70,000 may have to come out of County general funds to meet the shortfall. Hobson expressed frustration that some bills are sent to him without his having any opportunity to review and approve even though they come out of his budget. It was agreed that, since the RCPD is, essentially, a tenant in the County owned building, expenditures related to the building should be approved by the County except in emergency situations. Meetings will be held in an attempt to work out procedural agreements.

It was reported federal officials may be willing to commit up to $2 million in stimulus funds for a building to serve as home for a regional aTa bus transportation hub. The federal government would pay 100 percent of the cost of the structure. The County would be expected to donate its land to be used for building. The County would retain ownership of the land but would be required to agree to a minimum lease of 40 years. The Commissioners expressed a willingness to pursue the effort.