Riley County Commission February 28, 2013

 Joan Strickler, observer 

All Commissioners present, Lewis presiding.

County Counselor Clancy Holeman reported HB2285, referred to as the fixtures bill, would result in shifting more of the tax burden from large corporations to small businesses and farms.  Another bill, HB2185, could present a problem for Riley County.  It pertains to the consolidation of cities and counties and does not address situations such as City of Manhattan’s inclusion in both Riley and Pottawatomie Counties.

Information Technology/GIS Director Robert Nall reported on the recommendations of the website design committee.  A concern expressed is that the current website appears too cluttered and needs some re-design work.  The committee recommends that all posting on the website be handled on a centralized basis. Rather than allow people to post their own information directly, it would be better to have someone in charge of pulling information together and organizing it into an appropriate format.  The County’s Facebook page also needs redesigning.

Nall said the Judges seem to think things are going well in using paperless warrants.

Counselor Clancy Holeman discussed the legalities involved in establishing drainage districts and watershed districts.  The topic currently is under consideration by the group now studying  the flooding of Wildcat Creek.  Once these districts are formed they are permanent.  Each has the power to tax up to 5 mils without putting the issue to a vote. All power over drainage districts is exercised by a three member board of directors.  Watershed districts are controlled by an elected board of directors.   Both entities have the ability to exercise eminent domain and condemn property both inside and outside its boundaries.  Once they are formed the County has no control over either type of entity.  Such districts are highly litigated because of their extensive powers.

Though the County has no control the State would have some authority over watershed districts.  It is possible, however, that federal controls could be implemented.  The Commissioners expressed concern over the lack of County control and the possibility of federal authorities coming in.

Riley County Police Department Director Brad Schoen spoke about needs regarding the RCPD firing range and safety issues involved.  He said there is land owned by the County near the transfer station that might be utilized if the current range site is not adequate.  He suggested that the new land could also be large enough to provide for training other than firearms use such as driving areas to train emergency vehicle operators.  The topic will be discussed more at next Monday’s meeting.

There was some discussion of how to proceed in filling the newly vacant position of Health Department Director.