Monday, December 23, 2013

Riley County Commission December 23, 2013







Joan Strickler, observer

Commissioners Lewis, Boyd and Wells present, Lewis presiding.

County Counselor Clancy Holeman reported the attorneys on the indigent defense panel have agreed to a 1.5% cola increase in the coming year.  For special cases demanding extensive hours of work the attorneys will be paid an eighty dollar an hour rate.  The Commissioners agreed to the contract.

Officer Matthew Droge discussed holiday safety issues.  He noted 80% of vehicle robberies involve unlocked cars.  He cautioned against leaving  boxes out on curbs that would advertise the arrival of new television or other expensive appliances in the house and suggested writing down serial numbers of valuables.

Robert Nall, IT/GIS director, made a recommendation for the County to contract with a company that offers oblique aerial photography for the 2014 aerial property survey.  Oblique photography allows all four sides of a property to be viewed and gives one the ability to determine the width and height of that property.  Oblique photography will be a particularly effective tool in assessing the value of property in the County.

The company contracted to develop the 2013 aerial assessment has experienced extensive delays and has yet to provide its report.  Commissioners encouraged staff to negotiate down any final payment to the company due to the delays. 

Friday, December 20, 2013

County Commission Dec. 19, 2013

County Commission Dec 19, 3013

All commissioners present

All commissioners present.

Debbie Regester, Register of Deeds delineated her department's accomplishments and goals for the future.

Larry Couchman, EMS Directer discussed two incidents from last week involving his department.  The shooting at the Quality Inn response involved setting up a team to enter the hotel to search for any victims and render first aid if necessary.  They also were called to the multiple vehicle accident on I 70 and Wabaunsee county line.  Three ambulances were sent by EMS and one from Potttawatomie County.

Jennifer Wilson reported that the county Extension office will be providing tax return preparation next year as it has in the past.  It is staffed by qualified volunteers and she said they are still looking for more volunteers through mid January when training begins.  The site, at the ManhattanLibrary, will  open Feb. 4.

Greg McClure from K-State Extension announced an extensive and diverse list of classes offered in the seven county area.  He can be contacted at 785-537-6350.

Greg Lund, Parks Manager, showed pictures of the play equipment at CICO Park.  Most, if not all of it is old, outdated and no longer safe.  Until the funds can be found for the proposed large multiuse structure with slides, climbing features etc. that will cost  around $400,000 dollars, it is proposed to remove the unsafe equipment and replace it with swings and two other structures for climbing.  These will be less expensive.   The commission delayed any decisions on the swings, etc., since it is too late in the year to make these sorts of budget requests.

Julie Merklin, observer


Wednesday, December 18, 2013

County commission Dec. 16, 2013

County commission 12/16/13

All commissioners present.
Bids were opened for a tractor/ loader/backhoe for the Public Works department.  The bids were referred to staff for evaluation.

Johnette Shepek presented amendments to the 2013 budget for approval.

During the press conference, Eileen King, county Treasurer, reminded people that the first half of property tax is due Dec 20 and delineated the several ways they can be paid.  John Allard updated the commission on the Riley County Council on Aging.  Commission Chairman, Dave Lewis announced holiday office hours- closing at noon on Dec. 24 through the 25 and Jan 1.  Only the treasurer's office will close on noon on the 31 to do end-of-the-year tasks.

Greg Lund, Parks Manager reviewed the CiCo park master plan, discussing the responsibilities of the county, city of Manhattan, and school district 383.

Gary Stith and Bill Clark explained the comprehensive economic development strategy and the FlintHills Development District.  It is a regional effort involving 19 counties and stretches south from Marysville and Marshall County, includes  Riley County, and extends to the  Oklahoma border.  There will be many public informational meetings .

Julie Merklin. Observer






Sent from my iPad

Monday, November 25, 2013

Riley County Commission November 25, 2013


Joan Strickler, observer

All Commissioners present, Lewis presiding.

In casual discussion at the beginning of the meeting it was mentioned that, contrary to recent accounts of public opposition, the board members of Manhattan’s Chamber of Commerce appear to have no problem with the concept of establishing a public building commission.

Brenda Nickel, Health Department Director, presented information compiled by Kansas Action for Children.  The statistics for Riley County cause concern in the area of infant mortality.  The rate in the county exceeds that of the state and its peers.  Riley County’s infant mortality rate was 7.65% per 1000 births compared to the state rate of 6.07% and peer rate of 5.58%.

Riley County also falls behind in high school graduation rates.  During the 2011-2012 school year only seventy-six percent of high school students graduated which is nearly eight percent lower than that of both the state and peer counties.  Nearly seventeen percent of Riley County children live below the poverty level.

John Armbrust, with the Governor’s Military Council, expressed concern that funding uncertainty has left Ft. Riley without a clue as to what its operating budget will be.  He said cuts are made at the federal level with little information regarding the effects on local bases and communities.

Some areas of the country are establishing Veterans Courts to deal with domestic abuse cases in an effort to get combat veterans into treatment rather than prisons.  Armbrust did not address the issue of protection provided for the abused person through Veterans Courts.

EMS Director Larry Couchman presented a review of potential building sites for a new, comprehensive EMS building.  All of the Fire Department locations were considered as well as Pioneer Part, Cico Park and KSU owned land along College, Denison and Kimball.  The County Shop site offers another possibility but presents the problem of increased response time for heavy demand areas in Manhattan.  Commissioner Lewis said he was opposed to Pioneer Park.  The park is located adjacent to the historic Goodnow House and the Riley County Historical Museum and is considered part of that total historical preservation site.

County Counselor Clancy Holeman mentioned several legislative issues being lobbied for strongly by the realtor’s association and bankers association.  Their positions would result in loss in fees now collected by counties and result in a heavy negative impact on county budgets.   

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Riley County Commission Nov.21, 2013

Riley County Commission November 21, 2013

The wording of the Public Building Commission draft bylaws was discussed.  The difference of opinion was whether an advisory board "may" be formed or "shall" be formed.  Commissioner Boyd wanted it to be mandatory.  The other two commissioners felt that two public forums should provide enough input for the citizenry .  The wording was not changed

Jennifer Wilson, Riley County extension director announced that John Jobe is the new 4H Youth Development Agent, beginning Dec. 2.

Debbie Regester, Register of Deeds reported the year to date revenues through November 12,compared with 2012.  Totals for 2012 were $1,138,447 and for 2013, $1,124,581.  October revenues in 2012 were $84,734 and for 2013 $69,339.

The longest discussion was over Bart Thomas' request to rezone a parcel of property south of K18 west of Scenic Drive.  The request was to change from AG, agriculture to D1, industrial park.  The planning board sent the request to the county commission with the recommendation to disapprove.  Their reason was that D1 would allow enterprises that would not be good for that location.  The possibility of a PUD was discussed but Mr Thomas was against that for reasons of cost.  The Commission decided to postpone any decision.
Julie Merklin, observer

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Riley County Commissioners Nov. 18, 2013

BOCC
Nov. 18, 2013
 
All commissioners present, Dave Lewis presiding
 
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer presented the Road and Bridge 1/2 cent sales tax projects.  The McDowell Creek project, estimated at $6 million dollars, was the most costly.  Other projects included Anderson Ave. Asphalt Overlay, two bridges, four culverts, design for  two more bridges and 4 more culverts.  Total project estimate was $8,185,000. Resources available are $3,500,000.  There isn't adequate funding to complete all projects.  One option is a General Obligation Bond Issuance  for McDowell Creek.  Commissioner Boyd urged prudence and said McDowell Creek is still serviceable.  :Public Works Director, Leon Hobson, said that most important are safety concerns for drivers.  The probable increase in cost of materials, if the project were postponed, was also  mentioned.  The motion to approve the project passed, two to one with Commissioner Boyd voting no.
 
     Eileen King said that the Treasurer's office has begun mailing the 2013 tax statements.  Information is available on the Riley County website under Online Property Tax Search.
 
     It was announced that the Riley county Health Dept. is holding "Flu Shot Friday" through the end of the year, every Friday from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. They have received free vaccine from KDHE to be provided to the county's uninsured residents.  There is a $14 administration fee.
 
     Clancy Holeman, County Counselor discussed the effects on Riley County Revenues if, as has been proposed , the Legislature ends the Mortgage Registration Fee.  This is being pushed by Realtors and Bankers association.  Riley County would lose $1,072,000 and, statewide, counties would lose a total of $46,648,356.  He suggested that, if it passes, counties should start thinking of what services should be cut.  He said this amount in Riley County, would equal two mills in real estate tax.

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Riley County Health Department Advisory Council Report
September 30. 2013
Submitted by Linda Morse

Judy Wagner has resigned from the Advisory Council because she has moved to Wichita.  The Council is interested in having a representative of Mercy Hospital nominated as a replacement appointment. T he Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will make the appointment.  If anyone has a suggestion, please get in touch with Debbie Nuss
and/or Karen McCulloh

The Health Department received a $113,000 KDHE Title X grant for Family Planning (Reproductive Health).  The amount is matched for a total of $249,000 to serve approx 750 clients.  Director Nichols distributed a copy of the local agency management requirements for the grant.  Most provisions are routine, however, one provision requires the establishment of a 5-9 member Advisory Committee to review family planning educational information and
provide guidance in the development, implementation and evaluation of the program.  The committee must meet annually and includes consumers utilizing the program.  The Public Health Department Advisory Council decided they will take on the role of the Advisory committee for this local Family Planning Program. They will add up to 5 clients for the purpose of fulfilling the requirement.   Debbie Nuss and Karen McCulloh ( League members) were advocates and made a difference in the discussion.

The monthly Director's Report:


Brenda Nichols distributed the September Board of Health/Health Department's  Budget Report (which is the same as provided to the BOCC).
1)  Primary Care Clinic:  Projected revenues for the year are at 53% of the budget; expenses are at 35% of the budget. 
     Expenses are reduced due to the inability to hire a full-time Advanced Practice Registered Nurse since February '13.  Without that position, Medicaid patient base did not increase, so that fees could not be realized and thus less client revenue.
2)  Immunization Revenue: Expenses stand at 59 percent.  Medicaid revenue is a concern because it may be lower  than projected.  Private insurance revenue is expected to be higher than projected. The upcoming Flu Shot Clinics will boost revenue. There are 18 off-site clinics scheduled; locations to be announced.
3)  The Department has moved the Pottawatomie County WIC Clinic from St. Mary's  to Wamego (1st Baptist Church).   Per an agreement, Pottawatomie County pays Riley County to support the Clinic.  It is open twice per month to serve approx.72-75 families. 
4)  The Health Department currently  has a budget deficit of $20,000. The Director is working with the Konza Clinic to partner for the primary care program.  
5)   The  Health Department's Time/Cost Study will be conducted this month. The last study was done in April of 2012.  
6) Brenda Nichols, Director, noted that the Department is pleased to join the exercise in cooperation with the  Animal Borne Disease Table Top - October 9-10 with  Federal authorities, KSU, EOC, Riley County Police (and maybe others) in preparation for NBAF.
7)  Oct-FLU-Ber Fest will be  from 4-7 pm on Thursday, Oct 10. It is an event with entertainment to encourage flu shots. 
8)  Flu-Shot-Fridays - from 8 - 11:30 a.m. every Friday from Oct-Dec.  They will have 3,500 doses and 22 off-site flu shot clinics.
9)  Although only high level discussions to date, theDepartment is working cooperatively with Kristin Cottom and Renee Hanahran from Mercy Regional Health/Via Christi to develop a Community Health Assessment Plan by July 2014. There is consideration of a contract with Envisage (an outside firm)  to conduct broad health assessments in the outlying communities.
11) The Department has moved  staff and programs to better utilize the 2nd Floor space.  Planning to add Emergency Preparedness staff also.  Health Department Administrator  Brenda Nichols is featured in the new issue of Manhattan Magazine which is  available free at the Public Library. 























Due to the holidays, the NEXT MEETING will combine the Nov & Dec meetingS and will be held in early December.

Linda
Linda Morse
313-5612



Monday, October 28, 2013

Riley County Commission Oct. 28, 2013





 Joan Strickler, observer

 Commissioners Lewis, Wells and Boyd present, Lewis presiding.

It was noted that the Commission will not meet on Thursday, October 31. The Commissioners will be attending the Kansas Association of Counties annual conference in Wichita.

Bill Clark, director of the Flint Hills Regional Council, said the Regional Council’s grant from HUD will soon end and the Council must focus on looking into new funding sources if it is to survive and build its capacity to serve regional needs.  He addressed plans to establish a Welcome Center at the K 177—I-70 turnoff.  The land is currently owned by the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.  Clark said the FHRC is unwilling to build the Center there if it must pay a lease on the property.

Budget and Finance Officer Johnette Shepek presented an update to the Riley County Purchasing Card Policies and Procedures Manual which led to an extensive discussion of current policies regarding reimbursement for meals for employees when traveling.  Commissioner Boyd questioned the process of checking details of each purchase as well as the adequacy of the reimbursement allowance in higher cost areas.  It was agreed to accept the changes recommended but reconsider the adequacy of the amount allowed for meals at a later time.

Daylight savings time ends this Saturday.  People were reminded to turn their clocks back one hour and to consider purchasing 10 year batteries in all smoke alarms.  It is estimated that 7 people a day die in home fires.

Brenda Nickel, director of the Riley County Health Department, announced the Department’s Primary Care Clinic will no longer provide safety net primary care services effective November 1.  The Department has been unable to secure a mid-level provider on a full-time basis for medical and prescribing services since February.  Screening and counseling services will be provided by nurses and, if necessary, they will assist patients in linking to a primary care provider.

The program has received funding through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment with the level for fiscal year 2013 at $115,000.  Total projected expenses for the program in 2013 are running at $310,838.

 

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Riley County Commission 10/24/13

BOCC 10/24/13

All commissioners present

     Robert Nall from the IT/GIS department discussed the need for improved network backup.  The proposed solution would need $160,000.  The Register of deeds has offered $50,000 from their Tech fund, the Public Works dept. offers $50,000 to assist which leaves $10,000 to be allocated from the IT/GIS budget.
     Clancy Holman introduced a review of matters to be presented at the Legislative Conference this afternoon.
     One item to be discussed is Senate bill 181 which would reduce the motor vehicle tax from 20% currently to 12% in 2017, reducing incoming dollars by $666,031 every ensuing year.
     Greg Mclure, appraiser will discuss equipment and machinery tax exemptions.
     Loss of previous financial support from the state since 2002 has  cost the county an estimated $22,199,758.  This includes loss of Local Ad Valorum Tax Reduction, Revenue sharing, City/County highway, Commercial Industrial Machinery and Equipment, Business&Machinery elimination and vehicle tax plus unfunded mandates from the state.  More detailed information on this can be found on the county website, search for "budget",
     Another item to be discussed at the meeting will be SB109 which puts severe restraints on lobbying of state legislators by public officials.  Only if the legislator has asked the person would it be legal, otherwise it could be a class C misdemeanor !
     Should be an interesting meeting with the local legislators.
Julie Merklin, observer

Thursday, October 24, 2013

USD 383 Board of Education

Oct. 23, 2013
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

Board retreat:
The board held a special meeting to discuss plans for the College Hill preschool building and MHS East Campus (MHS-E).  The College Hill building had received no improvements from the 2008 bond, and only some improvements had been made at MHS-E.

For the College Hill preschool program, board members discussed the possibilities of renovating the existing building, constructing a new building on its current lot, or constructing a new building elsewhere, possibly on Northview Elementary's property.  Dave Colburn suggested incorporating preschool programs into some of the larger elementary schools, which would provide the opportunity to share services, such as the library, cafeteria, gym, staff.  Curt Herrman and Leah Fliter suggested locating the preschool program to space in MHS-E.  Pat Huggins suggested preserving the historic section of College Hill, while demolishing the 1950s and 1960s additions and replacing them with a new addition.  Board members agreed the building has immediate needs that have to be addressed, and plans for the district's overall preschool program will need further discussion.

For MHS-E, cost estimates for a significant renovation ranged from $14.7 million to $16.2 million, with the difference being the type of heating and cooling system that would be used.  Board members discussed the possibilities of making the school a smaller 9-12 grade high school that could focus on career and technical education or performing arts, but for now, the board agreed to continue to house only ninth grade in the building.  Similar to the College Hill building, MHS-E has immediate needs that have to be addressed, particularly issues with drainage.  The district has approximately $300,000 remaining from the 2008 bond, and those funds could be used to address issues at MHS-E.  (The bond's language would prevent the funds being used for College Hill.)  Mr. Colburn said that the district won't be able to address all of MHS-E's needs with the capital outlay budget, so the board will have to be thinking about another bond, which could also include moving 6th graders to the middle school level and adding on to the middle schools to accommodate them.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Riley County Commission Oct.21, 2013

BOCC Oct 21, 2013

Commissioners Wells and Lewis present

     Cheryl Collins, Riley County museum director, announced that the Midland Trail, one of the first US Transcontinental routes is being recognized.  It went from Washington DC to San Francisco and was marked across Kansas in 1914. It was the forerunner to highway 24.  Kansas museums, historical societies and tourism bureaus are working on a commemoration for the centennial in 2014.
     Collins also announced that Jim Sherow will speak on his new book "Manhattan"at the Riley County Historical Society annual meeting Oct. 29. Information and reservations at 785-565-6490.
      Three members of the museum staff reported on several conferences which they attended.
     Amy Chaplin, from the R.C. health Department Is now a Certified Application Counselor and can personally assist families and individuals through the Marketplace Exchange .  The Exchange will provide non-biased medical coverage information to help people make informed decisions.
      Julie Merklin, observer



Wednesday, October 2, 2013

USD 383 Board of Education

Oct. 2, 2013
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

The board received a report on the district's 2013 summer programs.  Sixteen programs had been offered and served 1,037 students.  Programs varied from credit recovery programs and driver's education at the secondary level to summer reading programs at the elementary level.

The board also received a report on athletic field maintenance.  Savings are expected in irrigation costs, resulting from Bishop Stadium's becoming artificial turf, but additional costs are expected for post-event clean-up because soccer games are now also played at Bishop instead of at Anneberg Park.

Debora Howser, Executive Director of Special Education, provided the board with information about the need to hire an additional certified special education teacher to accommodate a student's needs.  The student is expected to return to the district from an institutional setting where the student has been receiving specialized care.  The district is required to serve the student, so it's a matter of determining what's the best option to meet the student's needs.  Ms. Howser said that the student needs one-on-one teacher attention, and other options would have reduced learning opportunities of other students.  Once the student is settled in the district, Ms. Howser anticipates that the new teacher will be able to help with other students.  The board approved 7-0 to hire the additional teacher.

The board received a report on district enrollment.  Dave Colburn noted that enrollment in grades K-6 has declined by 50 students since 2011.  Dr. Bob Seymour, Assoc. Supt., said that was correct, but the elementary schools are still full.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Riley County Commission September 26, 2013




Joan Strickler, observer

 All Commissioners present, Lewis presiding.

Eileen King, County Treasurer, proposed raising the service fee the County charges for processing driver’s license renewals. The responsibility for processing driver’s license renewals belongs to the State, not the County.  For many years however the County has provided the renewals simply as a convenience to the people.  With the move of the State drivers’ license office to a more difficult to access location, more individuals are coming to the County for the service.  Traditionally the County has charged a fee of $2.00 to cover these expenses.  King recommended increasing that fee to $4.00 considering the growing caseload her office is experiencing in processing the renewals.  The Commissioners agreed to the increase which is expected to go into effect in the near future.

Cory Meyer, Network Administrator, provided an update on IT staff activities. Telephone and internet services for the Riley County Museum and the Health Department are now all contained under the County system.  With the changeover both the Museum and the Health Department will have increased band width and share a single connection to the County office.

Judge Meryl Wilson appeared before the Commission with a request for funds to hire bailiffs as needed during jury trials.  Numerous cutbacks in State funding have had drastic effects on courts and court personnel.  County Counselor Clancy Holeman sympathized with the need for additional help but cautioned Commissioners about assuming financial responsibility for costs that should be borne by the State.  Bailiffs are utilized mainly to help exchange information between the judge and jurors and see to the jurors needs.  The Commissioners agreed with the recommendation of Holeman and refused the request.

The Commission reviewed a draft resolution and draft bylaws to establish a Public Building Commission.  Commissioner Boyd supported the addition of an advisory body to the proposal.  It was mentioned that, in checking with bond counsel familiar with such commissions, none were aware of commission advisory councils.  Commissioner Lewis favored requiring public meetings to inform people and obtain public input.  Commissioner Boyd said he would include both the meetings and the advisory body.  The Commissioners will review language that would add both provisions to the draft though both Lewis and Wells expressed reluctance about the advisory body.  

Monday, September 23, 2013

Riley County Commission September 23, 2013







Joan Strickler, observer

Commissioners Wells and Lewis present, Lewis presiding.
Commissioner Lewis said he would like to set a time for a work session to review the employee leave policy.
A  Plaza reservation request from the Riley County Domestic Violence Task Force was approved.
Assistant County Counselor Craig Cox presented information on a right-of-way issue on Brighton Road.  A 30 foot wide area that, in the past, was designated a right-of-way has been maintained by the neighboring property owners who also paid taxes on the lot in the belief it belonged to them.  Cox recommends the issue be taken to the Court for a quit title action in favor of those property owners.
In another situation regarding property up for a tax auction, Cox recommended the County seek to purchase a property to protect another road right-of-way.
The cost of flood insurance in the Wildcat Creek flooding area will be discussed at a meeting scheduled for September 25, at 7:00 p.m., at Manhattan’s City Building on Poyntz.  Informational maps will be available and knowledgeable consultants will assist with questions.
On September 26, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Dr. Roberta Riportella, Kansas Health Foundation Professor of Community Health at KSU, will address the topic, “How will the Affordable Care Act Affect You?”  The presentation will be given at the Fire Station Training Room on Denison Avenue.
On Tuesday, October 1, Jennifer Wilson, Riley County Extension Director, will conduct a workshop on what people may expect as they turn 65 and move into the Medicare health insurance program.  The workshop will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Pottorf Hall in CiCo Park.
A series of workshops on Community Board Leadership sponsored by K-State Research and Extension will be held October 8, 9, 15 and 16.  The series is designed to help persons serving on boards to be effective and efficient with their responsibilities.  The cost is $40 for four sessions.  For further information contact Jennifer Wilson, 785-537-6350 or email jrwilson@ksu.edu.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman said Judge Wilson is scheduled to meet with the Commissioners on November 14th


Friday, September 20, 2013

Health Department Advisory Board Report

Public Health Department Advisory Council Report
August 28, 2013   4PM

As the Affordable Care Act reaches the beginning of its major
program, that of providing and requiring insurance coverage, a
number of health related and insurance related programs have
been provided in Manhattan.

Manhattan Alliance for Peace and Justice, i.e. MAPJ had at their yearly “Health Forum” the new administrator of the Riley County Health Department, Brenda Nichol who spoke about the many health
related programs available at the Health Department.  She used a power point presentation to support her discussion and suggested
that all of this information was available at their website and that they are also using Facebook. She listed the public health
services that are supposed to be provided, some by state or federal mandates, by all Public Health Departments and discussed how the Riley County Health Department carries out it’s mission,
systematically going through all the divisions of the Health Department and their specific programs. For example, there are 40 staff which of course make up the major costs for the Health Department. I have taken from the web site a list of the services that make up Public Health in the US which suggests the scope of the mandate to any Public Health Department.

“There are Ten Essential Public Health Services all local public Health Departments should undertake in their communities:
Monitor the health of the community 
Diagnose and investigate health problems 
Inform, educate, and empower people
Mobilize community partnerships
Develop policies that protect and promote the health of the community
Enforce laws and regulations
Link to/provide health services
Assure a competent workforce
Evaluate quality of services and programs
Research for new insights into improving health”


    Sandy Praeger, Kansas Insurance Commissioner, was the speaker for the September, 2013 Lou Douglas Lecture held at the K-State Forum Theater on September 10, 2013.  She began with
an interesting history of the many attempts by the United States Government to provide universal
health insurance dating back to 1913.  It was after world war II that businesses, in order to attract
employees, began to offer health insurance as part of their pay to prospective employees.  Congress went along with the idea and made concessions on taxes to employers who offered health insurance.  This is how health insurance become attached to employment, for better or worse.  Most other nations do health provision individually related to taxation.  The ACA (Affordable Care Act)  builds on the employment related model while also offering individual
insurance through the insurance “exchanges” now called “Marketplaces” provided for those not receiving Health Care at their place of employment.  Since the Act wants everyone to buy insurance,  thereby spreading the risk in the usual insurance plan way, the plan offers a number
ways to mitigate the cost of individual insurance for those who qualify.  Ms. Praeger noted that
there is much misinformation and misunderstanding of the ACA and so her department is planning many programs throughout the State to explain the program and encourage people to participate.
    As might be expected, there were many students in the audience and unlike many such
lectures, they did not leave at the end of the lecture but stayed to ask many questions.  Many wanted assurance that they could stay on their parents insurance until age 26.  Also of interest
was the requirement that no prior existing health problem or cutting off of health insurance at a monetary level was truly in effect.
    In discussing the development of the “exchanges for buying individual insurance” as mandated by the ACA, states,  34 of them, who opted out of developing their own insurance exchanges, will be working with the federal government, but at the same time each state has its
own laws related to insurance, so at this moment, KHHS is working with the federal exchanges to be sure they fit with the Kansas laws.  The ACA was passed by a Congress insisting that States be the ones to administer the law.  Ms. Praeger’s discussion, I felt, made the issue seem much less complicated than much of the Media suggests.


The Advisory Council meeting was attended by only four members, Dr. Paul Hesse, Ginny Barnard,  Michael Cates, and Karen McCulloh.  Adam Bowman, who was to discuss the satellite Dental Clinic housed at the Health Department was unable to come  so a wide ranging discussion took place rather than a regular meeting.  Brenda Nichol , Health Department administrator,  began a discussion of accreditation and of planning for a community health needs assessment which seems to be a definite plan in the works.  There is also a plan to seek a grant for the Riley County  Health Foundation to do an assessment of social services in Manhattan.  These surveys complement each other.  Karen McCulloh thought that along with the surveys there could be some education added in which seems to be much needed.  Brenda mentioned her opportunity to
present at the MAPJ Health Forum and especially mentioned that Commissioner Ron Wells was
there and Representative Sydney Carlin which she thought showed good interest in the Health Department. Brenda also emphasized that she had begun substantive meetings with the supervisors and are meeting regularly and looking at development and innovation in the activities of the department. There are also some students coming to the department as interns from the nursing and social work programs such as at Washburn.  Weekly reports are being sent out to all the staff and to others interested.  The Department   heard from the United Methodist Church in St. Mary’s where for 19 years the department has held their mobile clinics  that that space was no longer available.  Lisa, supervisor, was told that the church was “no longer going to support services like ours.”  A new space will have to be found.  Rent is paid through September so there is some time to look for another place.  Lisa reports that that clinic serves the smaller northern towns in that area and there are often large families who come.  The focus of the clinic is Women, Infants, and Children.
Since the Primary Care Clinic has been unable to find a suitable midlevel provider such as an ARNP or a PA there is considerable thinking of transitioning out of providing the clinic as there are now other venues in the county that can and are providing primary care.  This has changed since the clinic was started a number of years ago.  Karen McCullloh  felt that closing the clinic should be done very carefully if at all since many citizens think that that is what a Health Department should do.  Much further discussion went on and there is much more research to be done to work into some of the more modern ideas such as the “Patient Centered Health Care Home” idea which is a very viable idea going on now.  The meeting adjourned at 5PM.

Submitted by Sue Cohen

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

County Commission Sept 16, 2013

BOCC Sept 16, 2013

All commissioners present

     During public comments, Deb Nuss talked about a paper trail for  Electronic
voting.  County  Clerk, Rich Vargo, explained that the shift to e-voting was
mandated  by the federal govt. to make voting access easier.  He also said that
the machines are kept in strict security, are not connected to the Internet and
are monitored as they are set up for elections.  He also reminded everyone that
paper ballots are always available.  Nuss presented the commission a copy of Barbara Simons book,
"Broken Ballots: Will your vote Count?"
     Eileen King presented her monthly report .
     Robert Nall explained to the commission why replacing the old AS/400 server
will be the best choice over going to a Cloud hosting service.  Cost differences
over time are negligible .
     Phil Anderson presented the background of the building of the Pillsbury Viaduct and the preserving of the  Art Deco  bridge pier and showed the proposed signage.  If enough funding is donated, there will be some matching funds available.  The aluminum sign to be erected will be installed by Thomas signs at no charge.
     The discussion of an advisory board for the Public Building Commission
resulted in a passing vote of 2 to 1 with commissioner Boyd voting for, Lewis and Wells
against.  Boyd wanted more public input, Vargo noted that each project will have
public meetings for public comment.
    Leon Hobson talked about the parking lot purchased by the county.  County staff will be able to rent spaces in it.  It is not planned for general parking.
    Copies of the budget brochure are now available in several places including the County office.
      Julie Merklin, observer
    

Monday, September 9, 2013

USD 383 Board of Education

Sept. 4, 2013
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

The board received several reports.  Keith Noll, maintenance director, reported on the HVAC systems at Wilson and Roosevelt Elementary Schools.  There have been issues with being able to properly control the systems, and the IT department has been helping to facilitate improvements.

The board also received a report on the district's program for homeless students and a report on middle school activities.  Dr. Bob Shannon, Superintendent, indicated that there will likely be a request coming to the board about expanding football for 7th graders.

Board members discussed topics for the board retreat planned for Oct. 23.  The board agreed to make the renovation plans for MHS East Campus and College Hill Preschool the focus of the retreat.

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Riley County Comission August 29, 2013






 Joan Strickler, observer

 

Commissioners Wells, Boyd and Lewis present, Lewis presiding.

Rebecca Bishop, Extension Associate in Agricultural Economics, presented her findings in a report comparing county revenues and expenditures in 13 Kansas counties generally comparable to Riley.   In summarizing her report Bishop found that, of the 13 counties in the study, Riley had the lowest per capita expenditures and revenues in 2011, the year studied.  Riley spent slightly less than the 13 county average on road and bridge expenditures.  Riley spent the least among its peers on public safety due to the consolidation of County and City law enforcement.

Of all the counties studied, Riley had the lowest property tax revenues per capita in 2011.  She credits the County’s low mill levy and assessed valuation most likely in explaining that result.

Brenda Nickel, Director of the Health Department, described her department’s Raising Riley Right program focused on children’s early learning activities.  The program is funded with dollars made available through the tobacco settlement.  The department has the funds, but needs permission to fill the additional position required.  The permission was granted.

County Counselor Clancy Holeman held a work session on requirements of Kansas’ Open Meetings Act.  While the Act itself is relatively brief, numerous decisions from the Attorney General’s office must be taken into consideration in determining how the Act applies.  It does not just apply to formal meetings.  It applies any time a majority of the governing body discusses business.  When the majority of the body engages in communications while together, over the phone, through email or even on Facebook, a violation can occur.  If the purpose is to “subvert the Act” by avoiding an open meeting, a violation has occurred.  This would include using an intermediary person to carry messages from one to another.

The only notice requirements of the Act pertain to persons who request the information.  No actual requirement exists for the giving of public notice.

 

Monday, August 26, 2013

USD 383 Board of Education

Aug. 21, 2013
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

The board held a public hearing for the proposed 2013-14 budget, and no members of the public wished to comment.  Board members approved 7-0 the budget with mill levy of 52.464 mills, which represented an increase of 3.3%.

Board members were presented with information regarding approximately 30 acres of property in Pottawatomie County for the site of a future elementary school.  BG Consultants had evaluated the site and found few issues with the site.  The site currently has no sewer or water services, but there were nearby services to connect to and the possibility that services will expand to the area as development continues in the area.  The board approved 7-0 to proceed with closing on purchasing the property.

BG Consultants also provided the board with information about the facility analysis that had been completed on College Hill Preschool.  Some aspects of the facility were in good condition, such as the foundation, windows, and doors.  Many other aspects of the facility were in poorer condition and in need of repairs/replacement or were not in compliance with modern codes, including the roof, HVAC and electrical systems, and the handicapped ramp for accessibility.  BG Consultants estimated it would cost $1,379,547 to make necessary improvements, and it would cost $1,353,535 to construct a new building of the same footprint.  Dave Colburn described the analysis as "sobering," and Dr. Bob Shannon, Superintendent, said that to make the preschool modern and appropriate would be a significant project.  Dr. Shannon recommended that the College Hill discussion should be sent to the Facilities and Growth Committee for further analysis and ideas.

USD 383 Board of Education

Aug. 7, 2013
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

The board discussed the 2013-14 budget and three options for mill levies.  An additional $1.6 million in revenue is needed in order to fund the district's needs.  The tax increase for the average homeowner ranged from $73 to $80, and Aaron Estabrook commented that the difference between the three options for the average homeowner was relatively small.  All three options involved using reserve funds, and Leah Fliter and Darell Edie were concerned about drawing down the reserve and favored options that used less of the reserve funds.  The board approved 4-3 the budget option that would use $810,000 of reserve funds and increase the Local Option Budget by 1.99 mills.  Edie, Estabrook, and Fliter dissented.

Several members of the public addressed the board about 7th graders at Anthony Middle School not being able to take choir as a result of high student interest in choir and a lack of spots.  The middle school choir teacher is shared between the two middle schools, limiting the teacher's availability.  Dave Colburn explained that the board had not made any budget cuts that might have impacted middle school choir.  Dr. Bob Shannon, Superintendent, said that administration would give it some thought to if see something could be figured out.