Riley County Commission February 27, 2014

Joan Strickler, observer

Riley County Commission February 27, 2014

Commissioners Boyd, Wells and Lewis present, Boyd presiding.

During the public comment period one person complained that Individuals from Riley County are charged more as non-residents to use the landfills in surrounding counties but non-Riley residents are charged the same price as local residents if they use the landfill in Riley.  He proposed Riley lower the rate for County residents.   The Commissioners agreed to give the issue further consideration.

County Attorney Barry Wilkerson expressed frustration in trying to anticipate the effect possible legislative changes now being discussed in the Kansas legislature might have on his office.  In response to questions about the impact Fake St. Patty’s Day might have on his staff, Wilkerson said most problems are handled by the City.  Any serious issues stemming from participants extensive alcohol consumption that his office deals with most likely involve domestic violence and sexual assault.

The Commissioners engaged in a general discussion concerning frustrations Kansas counties are experiencing in dealing with the current state legislative session.  It often appears legislators minds are made up before hearings where testimony is heard.   Some county officials in Kansas seem frustrated in finding ways to get the attention of their legislators about possible adverse effects of bills proposed.

Robert Nall, information technology GIS director, said the 2014 GIS aerial photography project is on hold until the vendor can perform the flights.  That should occur in the next 30 to 45 days.  The GIS website now reflects the change of property values from 2013 to 2014.

Riley County Commission February 24, 2014

Joan Strickler, observer

Riley County Commission February 24, 2014

Commissioners Boyd, Wells and Lewis present, Boyd presiding.

Commissioner Wells was asked about any progress of the Wildcat Creek study group.  He said things seem to be sitting in limbo.   There is some agreement that a detention pond built on Ft. Riley property might help to alleviate the flooding problem, but Ft. Riley does not appear willing to cooperate.  It was agreed contact will be made with John Armbrust, who serves as the Governor’s representative to the Army.  Also, a luncheon might be held with the General of the installation.

Commissioner Lewis made a point of extending appreciation to the League of Women Voters for the letter appearing in the Mercury which encouraged people to attend the Board of Health meeting to be held that night.

County Counselor Clancy Holeman discussed some issues involved if the Commission decides to approve the establishment of a public building commission.  It seems the County can get a considerably lower cost rate on a bond issue through establishing such a commission than it would get through issuing a general obligation bond.

Holeman showed a video update on legislative issues affecting counties throughout the State.  Commissioners expressed frustration at some of the bills proposed and with difficulties in getting adequate notice of hearings with time to submit testimony.

County Appraiser Greg McHenry reported the 2014 Change of Value Notices for each of the approximately 24,000 real estate parcels in the County have been mailed.  Preliminary valuation totals show an increase in all categories over that of 2013.  Property owners have until Monday, March 17 to schedule appeals.  Riley has, probably, the highest rate of exempt property in the State which is expected to rise with the move to Manhattan of the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the building of NBAF.  Currently 27% of property in Riley County is tax exempt.

A somewhat spirited discussion was held with Public Works Director Leon Hobson on the advisability of contracting out asphalt  road repairs compared to performing the work with County staff.  It was agreed to proceed with getting the lowest and best bid, to include private and in house providers.

USD 383 Board of Education

Feb. 6, 2014
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer

Dr. Bob Seymour, Assoc. Superintendent, presented the board with a report on mid-year enrollment.  Fourteen additional preschool students had enrolled since the September count, but other grade levels saw decreases.  Elementary enrollment was down 14 students, the middle school level was down 10 students, and the high school level had decreased by 4 students.  Enrollment projections from the Kansas Association of School Boards had predicted an increase of 49 students.  If the current grade level numbers were moved up a grade to predict enrollment for next year and assuming that kindergarten enrollment would stay about the same, then the district should see an increase of 166 students.  Dr. Seymour said it's not unusual for enrollment to take a dip in January.  Dave Colburn suggested that the board should further discuss the mid-year enrollment data at a future meeting as it will impact the district's plans, such as whether to build another elementary school.