Joan Strickler, observer
All Commissioners present, Kearns presiding.
In preliminary discussions, it was agreed that the health inspections of restaurants and hotels should be placed back in the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Contacts will be made with local legislators asking for their support in removing the inspections from the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture.
County Attorney Barry Wilkerson reported on the high costs of prosecution in capital cases. The transient nature of the local population due to Ft. Riley and the University often requires funds to transport witnesses from other locations. Commissioner McCulloh noted the increase in the number of non-English speaking persons and the increased costs to public defenders and the courts in providing translators.
Information Technology Director Robert Nall made a plea for an office assistant to relieve technical staff of their general office duties. Commissioners made it clear there will be no staff increases. Commissioner Kearns suggested contact be made with RSVP to request senior volunteer assistance.
Assistant County Attorney Craig Cox announced the Governor had signed the military base boundaries bill but is considering also holding public signings in locations such as Riley. He explained also that, since RIM Development in Ogden has declared bankrupsy, both Riley County and Ogden could stand to receive payment for back taxes through the court settlement.
County Extension Director Jennifer Wilson said the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program will end on April 6. More than 280 persons will have been assisted by twelve volunteer preparers – mostly K-State students. Refunds amounting to $363,000 in federal and $56,000 in state taxes were realized.
Commissioners agreed to publish for public comment proposed regulations pertaining to large events held on private property. The need for such regulations became evident when the Konza Music Festival requested permission to hold such an event last year.
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