All Commissioners present.
Newly elected Commissioner Dave Lewis was sworn in. Karen McCulloh was elected Chair; Al Johnson is Vice Chair. After routine business, Rich Vargo reported on YTD (Dec 31, 2010) budget and expenditures. A few budget amendments were necessary at end of year for departments exceeding expenditure expectations. This is a routine procedure and adequate funds were available. The budget stabilization funds have never been spent for at least 14-yrs. Notably, the new method of dealing with medical expenses of jail inmates saved the County an estimated $200,000.
Chris Welchhans, Director of GIS, gave a staff update. One notable accomplishment is the virtual completion of the address points. Every address is located, including the City; apartments within large complexes are also pinpointed. This is very important for emergency services (fire, rescue, and police). Using new automated software, his office checked over 33,000 land parcel entries and found only 30 errors, which was very good.
Rod Meredith, Assistant Director of Public Works, quickly updated the Commission on snow removal and road clearance in connection with the current storm. They have proceeded as planned and this morning were beginning the second round of all routes. Eight truck routes and six motor grader routes are continuously being monitored. Three trucks broke down, of which two are back in use. So far there has been approximately five-inches of snow throughout the County.
Greg McClure, Extension, said that the Coffee Shop Agronomy will meet January 13 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Nelson's Landing in Leonardville. The topic is “Tree and Brush Control and Smoke Management Plan” presented by Walt Fick.
Doug Messer, Assistant Riley County Fire Chief, reminded rural residents that they must renew their burn permits as of January 1. Burning without a permit can result in a Court appearance and fine. They must also pay any damages. He urged people to use space heaters safely, check fireplaces and woodstoves, and install smoke alarms and CO detectors with strong fresh batteries.
Rich Vargo announced there will be a city and school board election on April 5. If necessary, a primary election will be held on March 1. The deadline for filing is noon on Tuesday, January 25.
Ms. McCulloh said Riley County now has cases of flu and reminded people to get their shots. She introduced new Commissioner Dave Lewis, who spoke briefly.
Clancy Holeman, County Counselor, distributed copies of the statute governing appointment of members of the Law Board to Commissioners. Commissioners discussed the issue at length, ultimately deciding (3-0) to appoint Ms, McCulloh as the County Commission representative and Mr. Lewis as the County's at-large appointment. They expressed regret that they were not re-appointing Gail Urban to the Board and praised her very efficient and effective service. But, since the County now has only to appointees, (on rotational system with City) they felt rural residents were sure to feel underrepresented. Both Ms. Urban and Ms. McCulloh live in City. Ms. McCulloh's district is basically all in the City. Commissioners recognized the feelings of many citizens that some non-elected representation is desirable, but decided rural representation was paramount.
Other matters Holeman introduced included proposed legislation to allow counties to hire contractors in emergencies without going out to bids; regulation of "jake braking" by trucks on Hwy 177 south of Manhattan; notification by #383 school superintendent that a portion of Bishop Stadium where the school district proposes work belongs to County; a lawsuit by a company against another division of itself in regard to funds paid for repair of LED flooding (Note: the County is NOT suing the City in this matter.). Holeman suggested Mr. Lewis subscribe to the Hawver reports on Legislative activity (other Commissioners and many employees and laypersons subscribe for complete coverage).
No comments:
Post a Comment