Thursday, December 27, 2012

Riley County Commission Dec. 27, 2012




Joan Strickler, observer

Commissioners Lewis and McCulloh present, Lewis presiding.

The Commissioners returned to the meeting room at 9:00 am after executive sessions regarding department head evaluations. County Counselor Clancy Holeman discussed provisions of a draft agreement to form a Metropolitan Planning Organization for cooperative transportation planning.  He said there may be a proposal to add some cash basis language to the agreement.  Commissioner McCulloh observed that means if you don’t have the money you don’t have to pay.  The figures used in the draft of the proposed agreement pertaining to payment allocations will be spelled out more precisely such as 59.9% rather than rounded out to 60%.

Preparations are being made to close out the County’s existing law library.  A major goal will be to get all the books out on time.  Law books will be offered for sale and those left will be given free to interested persons.  While the goal is to vacate the property by January 31, Holeman advises paying the rent through February to insure adequate time for the move.

Holeman said there is some concern expressed by the Kansas Association of Counties that the Legislature may make an effort to place financial responsibilities for electronic filing costs on the counties.  Also it appears there may be plans to place more responsibility for court expenses on counties for payment of court filing costs.  Possibly even county prosecutors will be charged filing fees.

A public hearing was held on 2012 budget amendments involving line item shifts.  Nothing resulted in additional tax costs to Riley County.

EMS Director Larry Couchman reported on progress regarding a transfer of EMS reserve account funds from Via Christi to the County.

 

 

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Riley County Commission mtg 12-20-12

All  Commissioners present.

After routine business, Pat Collins, Director of Emergency Management, asked for approval of the plan to donate surplus equipment to the State Dept. of Forestry. It is mainly older air bottles, some not up to current standards, but which could be brought up. All of his department's new bottles are certified at high pressure. The gift would be with the condition that they be brought to certification level by the Forestry Dept. Commissioners approved the request 3-0.

Josh Kyle, RCPD, presented a request for fencing along an unwanted foot path to prevent damage to grass and exposure of vehicles to vandalism. KS Fencing, Inc. submitted the only bid for a chain link fence at a cost of $7,380.13, installed, and a decorative fence would cost $18,797.40. Funds are available in the maintenance fund. Commissioners Approved the chain link fence 2-1.  Ms. McCulloh objected to the expense and suggested maybe a sidewalk would be more practical.

Clancy Holeman, Counselor/Dir. of Admin., presented the latest draft of the Flint Hills Metropolitan Planning Organization's agreement on transportation planning, including make-up of the policy board. Several approval stages are planned through the end of December and early January. All the governing bodies involved must approve a final version as soon as possible, according to KDOT. Proposed changes should be presented by Jan. 4. The city is expecting to approve a version on Jan 22.  The county will vote on Jan. 10, including the Fiscal Agreement, which is a separate document.

Jennifer Wilson, Extension Director, said a statewide survey process will help them with program development for next fall. There are 2 vacancies on the Fair Board. Ms. Wilson recommended Mark Fritson for District #1, and she is waiting to hear from two potential appointees for District #3. This is a very active board, and they meet 6 times per year and work extra during the fair and its lead-up. Kristin Garcia, Extension 4-H Project Director, said the program kick-off was a huge success. Fifty people came through, including many enthusiastic families. Activities included making yeast bread, creating food gift baskets, and "gifts in a jar." The next subject will be "Fiber Fun: needlework, sewing, and fashion." Ms. Wilson said they currently have 297 4-H members, of which 51 are first year. In answer to a question from Ms. McCulloh, she said maybe by next spring or summer they would work out an agreement with Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Brad Schoen, RCPD Director, said there have not been many accidents since last night's snow. Officers are responding only to accidents involving injuries or road blockage. People in minor accidents should report to RCPD within 48 hours. There will be two funerals on Saturday for fallen police officers in Topeka. RCPD has offered to send officers to help with traffic and dispatch so Topeka officers may attend the funerals and joint gatherings to follow.  The RCPD honor guard will attend the funerals, and our flag will be at half staff until after the ceremonies. The HVAC work at LEC is postponed since the crane broke down. They will continue the work the week of Jan. 7.  In February or March, they will begin their budgeting process. Director Schoen has met with the 2 newly-elected Commissioners. Plans for New Year's Eve are basically the same as last year, with minor changes. The celebration in Aggieville has usually presented no exceptional problems for RCPD. When asked about Fake Paddy's Day, he said he hopes to have conversations with Aggieville merchants and work out cooperative plans.


Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.

County Commission Dec. 17, 1012
All commissioners present
Karen Hibbard, facilitator for the proposed Flint Hills Regional Welcome Center Project gave a presentation about the Center. It will involve Riley, Pottawatomie, Geary, Wabaunsee, and Morris Counties along with fort Riley. After studying possible locations, the proposed site is at the interchange of I-70 and Highway 177. The project could include not only gasoline and restroom facilities, but a place for displays of interesting/educational materials about the Flint Hills and the surrounding are, an information desk, gift shop, convenience store and perhaps a restaurant. The second floor design includes a terrace, meeting rooms, and offices. The hope is that people who stop, if they are on their way somewhere else, will be intrigued and perhaps stop and visit the area on their return, or even make a special trip to see what the are has to offer.
      Ann Smith from ATAbus thanked the commission for their continuing support. Ridership has been very good – over expectations by 11%. Construction of their new building will begin Jan 2.
      Pat Collins reported on the 13th annual Riley county firefighters banquet. Around 150 people attended. Paul Bosh, who founded the banquet and his family attended. Congratulations were given to Battalion Chief Dough Messer for winning the prestigious Harold Bellman Outstand service award. He is a 20 year veteran of the department with 17 years as Asst. Fire Chief. Chris McCush from station 5 took home the Most Active Fire fighter for 2012 with over 350 hours of service. Charles Barton was rookie of the year with more than 140 hours of service in his first year.
      Barry Wilkerson, County Attorney, gave his year end report and plans for the future. One concern is the lack of mental health facilities. The same people come through the courts again and again. The community needs to know the facts so they can support an effort for these facilities, especially where funding has been cut. Wilkerson also said that courthouse space is becoming limited, for example when audio-visual displays are needed for trials. Lack of courtrooms and space is the biggest problem as well as financial support for KBI labs for DNA and other testing. The delays are way too long.
      Julie Merklin, observer

Saturday, December 15, 2012

County Commission Dec. 13, 2012


BOCC Dec 13, 2012

   All Commissioners present.

The Commission appointed 14 county residents to 9 different county boards with terms beginning Jan 1, 2013.

Lyle Butler, Manhattan area chamber of commerce, thanked outgoing commissioners McCullough and Johnson for their work.  Butler said the statistics for the city are strong, and the unemployment rate is low.  The city is eighth in size in the state, but fifth in retail shopping.  Complete statistics for 2012 will be out in January

Eileen King, Treasurer, gave her monthly report.  Among the items, sales tax is $208,000 over budget estimates.  These numbers are from Nov. of 2011 through Oct 2012.  She expressed concern about proposed cuts in sales tax proposed by the governor.

Rich Vargo, county Clerk, gave a report of his department’s accomplishments and goals.  The biggest item this past year was the 2012 election which went well.

                Susan Kufahl, Health Dept. Director said that the Flu season started early this year but it is still not too late to get a shot.  They have been notified that their Early Childhood Block Grant has been recommended for funding and they hope to hear that is has been fully funded.

                The Kansas Dept of Ag. has indicated that they will send a user-friendly ongoing report for Riley County restaurant inspections that can be posted on their website.

                The first public health advisory board meeting is scheduled for Jan 23 at 4 p.m.

                There was a lengthy presentation and discussion of the long range facility plan for the county building(s).  The presentation included slides with pictures and diagrams produced by Brent Bowman.   This is just very preliminary and much discussion and analysis of space needs will occur in the future.

Julie Merklin, observer

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

USD 383 Board of Education

Dec. 5, 2012
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

Board members discussed varying options for the class schedule at MHS.  A task force had met several times with the charge to research scheduling options and to recommend three to the board.  The task force presented its three recommendations to the board, which included maintaining the current 7-hour schedule, a modified 7-hour schedule with block time, and a 6-hour schedule with an early "0 hour."  The current 7-hour schedule allows students to meet graduation requirements while having the opportunities to pursue elective courses.  The modified 7-hour schedule would have longer class periods on Wednesdays and Thursdays, which would allow for deeper discussions, more time for science labs and art projects, teacher collaboration, and student advisory time.  The 6-hour schedule with 0 hour would eliminate 0 hour on Wednesdays and replace it with student advisory time.  The 6-hour plus 0 hour schedule would allow for a reduction in staff, which would be a cost savings.  However, the availability of transportation for students to get to 0 hour was a concern.  Teachers and students who were surveyed preferred to maintain the current 7-hour schedule.  The item was for discussion only.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Riley County Commission mtg 12-10-12

All Commissioners present, plus the two who were elected in November.

After routine business and an executive session, Commissioners held a press conference. Mr. Lewis presented a plaque to Greg McHenry, Appraiser, in recognition of his award of designation as Assessment Administration Specialist by the International Association of Assessing Officers. This is a very rare achievement. Mr. McHenry spoke graciously in acceptance.

Jerry Haug updated Commissioners on the status of work on K-18. Murray Road access will be closed as of today; access will be via the north roundabout on Scenic Drive. By the end of this week (weather permitting), east-bound traffic can travel on the 2 lanes of the old road and west-bound on the 2 lanes of the new road. Stagg Hill Road access will be closed until the east-bound new road is finished next fall. In late March, traffic will revert to one lane each way ("head-to-head"). About mid-June, 4 lanes will re-open west of Scenic Drive.  The project will be finished in the fall of 2013. If you are going to the airport, turn off the GPS.  GPS programs are not updated, and drivers should follow the signs. Eureka Drive is open and can be accessed via Skyway to Scenic Drive.

Eileen King, Treasurer, said property taxes are due by December 20. Information on payment methods, including interest on payment plans, can be found on www.rileycountyks.gov under e-gov services, or phone 537-6321. Many people may not be aware that if first half of personal property taxes  are not paid Dec. 20, the entire amount becomes immediately due. The Treasurer's office will close at noon on Dec 31, pending formal approval.

Dawn Searles, Health Department, said Riley County has already had a few cases of the flu. Lafene has had 7 cases. The Health Dept. administered 3,467 flu shots, including 25 outside clinics. Children, as expected, have had harder cases and recover more slowly than adults from flu.

Scott Carpenter, Riley County Fire Department, gave tips on holiday safety and winter safety. For holiday safety, place no more than 2 or 3 light strings on one circuit, and don't use nails or staples. Check for fraying and wear and tear of wires. Extinguish all lights at night, especially candles. Keep live trees moistened. In the kitchen, if you plan to fry your turkey, be sure it is completely thawed, or you will have a grease explosion. For general winter advice, above all, do not follow too closely when driving.  Clean your chimneys, and keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything flammable.

Tim Hagerty, RCPD, said when shopping, take valuables with you and lock your car.  If you are leaving town, alert neighbors, keep the house locked, and have a plan for your mail and newspapers. When traveling, slow down, especially in rain or snow conditions, and keep a good distance from the car ahead. Also, do not swerve to miss any deer.

Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer, presented the estimated 2012 ending balance in the General Fund report. Resources for 2012 totaled $23,627,685, expenditures totaled $20,073,999, and the balance was $3,553,686. These figures are estimates, which include expected income and expenses for the rest of the year. The balance is the lowest Riley County has had for many years.

Craig Cox, Asst. Counsel, gave an administrative update. He dealt with paving districts, code enforcement coordination with Planning Dept. migrant housing at Britt's, and letters sent out for personal property collection.

Monty Wedel, Planning Director, presented proposed schedule of increases in planning and development fees. The fees include building permits, petitions, evaluations, licenses, and water and other tests. The fees are meant to more nearly compensate the county for services provided to the public, by asking the public who use the services to pay more for them. Commissioners approved the schedule. Mr. Wedel will bring the formal proposal for approval.

Commissioners had an executive session before the lunch break. After lunch, Debbie Regester  reported on Register of Deeds' Office 2012 Accomplishments and 2013 Goals. Commissioners had three more executive sessions before adjournment. The executive sessions were for personnel evaluation of department heads.

Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.

Monday, December 3, 2012

USD 383 Board of Education

Nov. 28, 2012
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

Universal Construction, the district's program manager for all of the construction projects with the exception of MHS West Campus, presented its final report to the board.  The construction projects are considered complete.  Board members thanked Universal and praised their management of the projects.

Board members discussed the district's current policy for senior release.  Of the parents who responded to a survey, 86% favored continuing senior release.  Dr. Bob Shannon, Superintendent, recommended that senior release continue, but he also recommended developing a definition of college/career readiness that seniors would have to comply with to be eligible for early release.  Pete Paukstelis favored discontinuing senior release because he felt the district should use that time to further students' educations, and he suggested that graduation requirements may be too low.  Dave Colburn said he wanted to see the high school remain flexible to accommodate different needs.  The board approved 5-1 to continue offering senior release, with Paukstelis dissenting.

The board received an update from the MHS Booster Club about fundraising efforts for artificial turf for Bishop Stadium.  Boosters had a commitment from the Manhattan Surgical Hospital in the amount of $200,000, and a commitment of $100,000 from Steel and Pipe.  The Boosters have also received smaller commitments and estimated that they have raised $550,000, which included $200,000 that the district will contribute.

Board members were presented with recommendations for new courses, course name changes, and course deletions for the 2013-14 school year.  One of the proposed changes that was discussed in depth was the change in middle school math.  The Math in Focus curriculum that was previously adopted for the elementary grades will be implemented at the middle school level so that the district's curriculum will better match the common core standards.  The board approved 6-0 the proposed changes.

Dr. Shannon also reported that the district's attorney had presented the district's argument to the Kansas Court of Appeals in regards to its case against the city concerning the long-standing agreement that had provided free water to schools.