Monday, August 9, 2010

Riley County Commission mtg 8-9-10

All Commissioners present.
Rich Vargo gave his YTD Budget and Expenses report. At 58.33% of the year, expenditures are all within acceptable bounds. Overtime expenses are somewhat high because of snowstorms last winter. Medical/hospital expenses at Law Enforcement Center are unusually high.
Chris Welchhans, GIS Director, gave his monthly report of department activities. They have done new maps for the wind power installation at the Shops, and for 3 ne subdivisions, 2 of which are in City. They wowrk on center line updates, and assist with ATA bus route information and rural water districts. They continue to have cooperative meetings with Geary County, City of Manhattan, and Pott. County.
Greg Wurst, Natural Resources Management Specialist (formerly "Park Manager"), said Tuttle Creek Reservoir is at 1095 1/2 feet, about 20 feet above desired level. Corps of Engineers determines when water may be released on basis of navigation needs and flood dangers downstream. In the second week of October, the tubes will be shut down for a 5-year periodic inspection. The inspectors actually walk into the tubes all the way back to the gates. The river channel is basically dried up. Fish and Game Department assists with fish salvage.
Ann Smith, ATA Bus, said they are working with the updating of the 2001 City Transportation plan. Their main concern at the moment is funding sources. KSU's safe-ride plan and City/University tax funds can be probably accessed. Revenue projections include a deficit in 5 years--considered unacceptable. Some grants are for capital funds only; operating costs are more difficult to cover. KDOT plans to contribute the "ridiculous" sum of $15,000. They are planning on their new building to be very "green."
Leon Hobson, Public Works Director, updated commission on road projects.
Rich Vargo, County Clerk, reported on Aug 3 Primary Election. Turnout, including 1,386 Advance voters, was 6,220 voters.
The Commission constituted itself the Riley County Election Canvassing Board and presided over the canvass of the election. Clerk's office workers presented numbers by voting place, and explained which provisional ballots were accepted wholly or partially, and reason for rejection for each rejected ballot (mostly non-registration). After all paper ballots and provisional ballots were counted, totals were presented to Commissioners. Board accepted 3-0. Certification will be signed on Thursday.
Vargo thanked Jolene Keck and the other Clerk's office election officers and the 180 poll workers for a successful election.
Leon Hobson was scheduled to present request to Extend SpectraLink Phones in LEC Expansion.
Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.

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