Joan Strickler, observer
All Commissioners present, and McCulloh presiding.
Rod Meredith with Public Works reported that he and a K-State wildlife specialist checked into concerns about a dog being attacked by a coyote near the dog park area. It was agreed they did not expect safety problems inside the perimeter of the dog park.
Public Works Director Leon Hobson discussed master planning for Riley County space needs. Identified needs are prioritized as A, B and C. The priority A level need is to hire a master planner to determine if it is appropriate to maintain the existing office building with regard to energy conservation, usage, operational efficiencies and security needs. The cost of such a study is estimated at $63,000. Commissioner McCulloh was concerned about making the fund commitment given the questions regarding the availability of tax dollars for the county next year. She said if the Governor is serious about cutting taxes, counties will have fewer dollars to work with.
Hobson stressed that the study is needed if the county is going to consider remaining in the current building. It would not be wise to invest dollars into the current building unless it is deemed feasible for Commissioners and personnel to remain there in the future. There was some discussion of the church building across from the courthouse.
Commissioner Lewis made a motion to fund the study. The motion passed unanimously.
The RCPD reported complaints about traffic on McDowell Creek Road on game days.
Health Department Director Chuck Murphy said the first flu case has now hit the county. He said the season is just getting started and urged people to get their immunization shots now. The vaccine takes up to two weeks to build immunity.
Treasurer Eileen King reminded people that county treasurer’s offices statewide will not be able to do motor vehicle transactions from December l through 7 as Kansas converts to a new record keeping system.
The Commissioners discussed the new visitor’s center to be built at the junction of Hwy 177 and I-70. It will include a tower to allow people to view the Flinthills. A problem to be solved is getting water to the center. Possible solutions would be digging wells, tying into a rural water district or into the Manhattan water system.
Planning/Special Projects Director Monty Wedel worked with the Commissioners as they began an extensive review of proposed amendments to regulations to implement the Vision 2025 plan.
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