Riley County Law Board, November 16, 2009
Bob Kruh, Observer
Aside from approval of a routine consent agenda the Board discussed the city's proposal to ban use of communication devices while driving. With much agreement about the existence of a problem, the Board noted that cellphones, texting, etc, are just part of a larger issue-- inattentive driving. Given the downside of creating a definition and enforcing a ban, the importance of education was emphasized. There was also interest in exploring the experience of other jurisdictions that now have a ban in force.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
USD 383 Board of Education
Nov. 18, 2009
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
Work session:
The work session focused on the MHS construction project with the architects presenting ideas that they have developed for adding space to the building. Possible options included "wrapping" new space around most of the existing exterior, adding space in a "book end" design in the NE and SW corners of the building, and adding space in an "efficiency" scheme that puts the new space all in one location. The architects want to create space that will be flexible and adaptable as the needs of education change over the next 20 years.
Regular meeting:
The board was presented with information about how the state may be reducing funding during the school year and possible scenarios for how that would affect the district's budget. Administration is anticipating that the state may reduce state aid by $200 per pupil, which would result in a decrease of over $1 million in the district's budget.
The schematic design for Northview Elementary was presented to the board. The board expressed concerns about dedicating space for laptop cart storage because technology needs will change in the future. Northview's principal also expressed her concerns that the design does not provide enough classroom space, and board members responded that Northview's attendance boundary could be redrawn to alleviate crowding. The board approved the schematic design 7-0.
The board also approved 7-0 to award Ogden Elementary's construction project to Champion Builders of Topeka.
The board approved 7-0 to adopt the Botvin Life Skills Training program, which is a substance abuse prevention program that will replace the D.A.R.E. program that the police department had decided to cease offering. The city's Special Alcohol Tax Funding committee will be providing the funding for a program coordinator and a program specialist.
Board members discussed whether the district should join the Schools For Fair Funding (SFFF) organization. The district had been part of SFFF in 2006 when a lawsuit was filed against the state of Kansas for failing to adequately fund public education, and the SFFF group may pursue legal action against the state again. To join SFFF, the district would be asked to contribute $5 per student, which amounts to $27,860. Board members were concerned about the cost to join SFFF, other state agencies also in need of funding from the state, and the lack of available state funds due to the poor economy. Several board members didn't think that suing the state was the answer to funding problems for education. Pete Paukstelis was in disagreement and felt that suing the state did work in 2006 and resulted in a dramatic increase in state funding. Paukstelis also said the Legislature has the power to provide additional funding to education in spite of the poor economy by expanding the tax base. The board voted 6-1 to not join SFFF, with Paukstelis dissenting.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Riley County Commission mtg Nov 9,2009
All commissioners present. Rich Vargo, Co. Clerk, gave YTD budget and expenditure reports. Eileen King, Co Treasurer, gave monthly financial reports. Interest earned on County investments in October was at .08%. King was able to secure reinvestment of one fund at 1.84%.YTD interest income is $342,049.91 (54.73% of budget for year) as compared to 120.86% at this point in 2008. Sales tax collections are slightly over budget. Hy-Vee, though operating only since August, has joined the "top 25" of sales tax contributors (at #25). King commented that the delinquency rate on Ad Valorem taxes is very low in Riley County. All the counties in Kansas are linked by computer with regard to motor vehicle taxes. If anyone with delinquest tax registers a car in another county, the delinquency "pops up" on the computer.
Robbin Cole, of Pawnee Mental Health Services, reminded Commissioners that the State allocation for mental health services has been cut by 52% in the last year, by the Legislature. This has caused many providers to rethink the way they provide services to uninsured persons.This year the Legislature changed the wording on the contract to include "subject to available resources" Pawnee has already cut $50,000 in salaries from 2009 Budget. Cole said that the Counties participating in Pawnee MHS have been very supportive.
McCulloh said County Hazardous Waste will be at Howie's on Sat Nov 14.
Kearns read a proclamation of Veteran's Day on November 11, Wednesday. He said many activities are available to honor Verterans, including a breakfast, parade, speeches at City Auditorium.
Susan Kufahl said County Health Dept will hold clinic for H1N1 vaccine on Tuesday from 4 to 5:30. They hope to have a clinic for elementary school children on Nov 23, and one for High school students on Nov 30. They still do not allocations they will receive. From 33% of schools with 10% or more absentee two weeks ago, rate has gone down to 15%.Hospital admissions remain the same.
Leon Hobson,Pub Works Dir and County Engineer, gave an update on projects. Commission will tour the site of a proposed road closing on Nov 23, afternoon. NOTE: Barnes Road Bridge will be
CLOSED for repairs; project will begin sometime between Jan 4 and Feb 10, and continue for about 70 days.The main financing for this project is from Federal stimulus funds.
Clancy, County Counsel, conducted an informational hearing on the question of reopening the west entrance to Tuttle Creek State Park. A representative of the Corps of Engineers and a representative of the Kansas State Parks spoke on the subject. The Corps representative explained which roads had been destroyed by the recent dam construction, which would never be restored, and when the entire project will be finished (by Dec 15, they project). The employee of the State Park System discussed the three options: two entrances, a west entrance only, and an east entrance only. Each has good and bad points. For complete information, attend the public meeting on Nov 16 at the Fire Station, 7:00. Commissioners agreed by consensus to postpone action on any resolution until after the meeting.
CherylCollins, Museum Director, said Goodnow house and barn are now closed for renovations. They may figure in the Freedom's Frontier National Heritage Area activities. A meeting of that grouip will be here in Riley County on Nov 12. Call Museum for details.
Bob Isaac, CountyPlanner, conducted a public hearing on the vacation of utility easement on property at Tuttle Creek Lake. The area has never been developed\. There are no utilities in the property. Commissioners accepted recommendation of staff to approve vacation, 3-0.
Isaac conducted a public hearing on vacation of road right-of-ways in same general area. The County owns rights of way, but has never built any roads. Owner made plats for development and installed primitive roads in 1964. There has been no development, there is no access to water or sewer services, the "road" (classed as a "trail")is only half on the right-of-way, the terrain is hostile to development, there are no utilities and no interest in utilities. Staff recom-mended approval of the vacation. In discussion, Corps of Engineers stated interes in retaining access to the Lake at that point. Mr. Johnson was concerned about increasing difficulties for hunters and fishers. It was agreed that staff will find a time for Commissionerrs to view the property before making a decision.
Commissionersw signed a contract to buy two properties in Fairmount Park.
COMMISSION will not meet on Thurs Nov 12 or on Mon Nov 16.
Robbin Cole, of Pawnee Mental Health Services, reminded Commissioners that the State allocation for mental health services has been cut by 52% in the last year, by the Legislature. This has caused many providers to rethink the way they provide services to uninsured persons.This year the Legislature changed the wording on the contract to include "subject to available resources" Pawnee has already cut $50,000 in salaries from 2009 Budget. Cole said that the Counties participating in Pawnee MHS have been very supportive.
McCulloh said County Hazardous Waste will be at Howie's on Sat Nov 14.
Kearns read a proclamation of Veteran's Day on November 11, Wednesday. He said many activities are available to honor Verterans, including a breakfast, parade, speeches at City Auditorium.
Susan Kufahl said County Health Dept will hold clinic for H1N1 vaccine on Tuesday from 4 to 5:30. They hope to have a clinic for elementary school children on Nov 23, and one for High school students on Nov 30. They still do not allocations they will receive. From 33% of schools with 10% or more absentee two weeks ago, rate has gone down to 15%.Hospital admissions remain the same.
Leon Hobson,Pub Works Dir and County Engineer, gave an update on projects. Commission will tour the site of a proposed road closing on Nov 23, afternoon. NOTE: Barnes Road Bridge will be
CLOSED for repairs; project will begin sometime between Jan 4 and Feb 10, and continue for about 70 days.The main financing for this project is from Federal stimulus funds.
Clancy, County Counsel, conducted an informational hearing on the question of reopening the west entrance to Tuttle Creek State Park. A representative of the Corps of Engineers and a representative of the Kansas State Parks spoke on the subject. The Corps representative explained which roads had been destroyed by the recent dam construction, which would never be restored, and when the entire project will be finished (by Dec 15, they project). The employee of the State Park System discussed the three options: two entrances, a west entrance only, and an east entrance only. Each has good and bad points. For complete information, attend the public meeting on Nov 16 at the Fire Station, 7:00. Commissioners agreed by consensus to postpone action on any resolution until after the meeting.
CherylCollins, Museum Director, said Goodnow house and barn are now closed for renovations. They may figure in the Freedom's Frontier National Heritage Area activities. A meeting of that grouip will be here in Riley County on Nov 12. Call Museum for details.
Bob Isaac, CountyPlanner, conducted a public hearing on the vacation of utility easement on property at Tuttle Creek Lake. The area has never been developed\. There are no utilities in the property. Commissioners accepted recommendation of staff to approve vacation, 3-0.
Isaac conducted a public hearing on vacation of road right-of-ways in same general area. The County owns rights of way, but has never built any roads. Owner made plats for development and installed primitive roads in 1964. There has been no development, there is no access to water or sewer services, the "road" (classed as a "trail")is only half on the right-of-way, the terrain is hostile to development, there are no utilities and no interest in utilities. Staff recom-mended approval of the vacation. In discussion, Corps of Engineers stated interes in retaining access to the Lake at that point. Mr. Johnson was concerned about increasing difficulties for hunters and fishers. It was agreed that staff will find a time for Commissionerrs to view the property before making a decision.
Commissionersw signed a contract to buy two properties in Fairmount Park.
COMMISSION will not meet on Thurs Nov 12 or on Mon Nov 16.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Observer Report
Riley County-Manhattan Board of Health
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A major portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing the management of the H1N1 Vaccination program. Though the number of cases of the H1N1 flu is increasing in the state, Kansas has not had the outbreak other states are having. Up to now 3,167 cases have been counted which compares with 11,260 cases in the region just east of our region.
The Health Department has provided 3167 vaccinations in five clinics thus far. The supply continues to be low and thus eligibility guidelines remain restricted. There is a lot of demand and some turned away who felt that their health situation should have made them eligible were unhappy but thus far Charles Murphy feels that things are going very well. He would like to have more providers -- All H1N1 vaccine will be processed through the Health Department for the County and Manhattan -- but understands the reluctance of other providers as the paper work required could be described as “overwhelming”. He praised the staff for their effectiveness. Financial support is expected to help with the program but has not arrived as yet. Mr. Murphy expects that when the supply of vaccine is available the next eligible group will be larger and will require greater effort and perhaps larger clinics. All the H1N1 information is kept current on the County web site at: www.rileycountyks,gov.
The board voted to replace a vehicle at $18,324 from Don Hattan Chevrolet in Wichita which had the low bid.
The City of Manhattan has requested consideration of a plan for water retention on the Department’s land to prevent flooding. The Administration questions whether enough space is available as flooding has been as high as six feet deep and ten feet across. Such a plan might also limit future expansion.
The Board voted to approve an addendum to the Dental Clinic Lease waiving their rent for the first three months of the year since construction delays delayed the opening of the clinic until April.
Board member Bob Strawn (and Mayor of Manhattan) asked Suzanne Kufahl, Assistant Administrator, to present information to the board about inspections of Regulated Child Care. At the moment such homes are not required to be inspected. Mr. Strawn stated the City Commission is considering revisiting the issue of the passing an ordinance requiring inspection of Registered Child Care Homes to the already required inspections of Licensed Child Care Providers. Such an ordinance was voted down last year. Ms. Kufahl offered to present information to the Commission. She stated that surveys have shown that most people believe that these homes are inspected , but they are not unless there is a complaint. The Health Department is very much in favor of the ordinance. Some of the common complaint citings of Registered Day Care homes are: 1) over capacity, 2) improperly sleeping children under 18 months in car seats, bouncy seats, strollers, etc. where they can suffer harm from equipment not meant for sleeping, 3) lack of supervision 4) not child proofing, leaving household chemical in reach, for example
The agenda item to consider budget priorities related to the concept of essential services was tabled for next meeting.
Submitted by Sue Cohen, Observer
Riley County-Manhattan Board of Health
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A major portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing the management of the H1N1 Vaccination program. Though the number of cases of the H1N1 flu is increasing in the state, Kansas has not had the outbreak other states are having. Up to now 3,167 cases have been counted which compares with 11,260 cases in the region just east of our region.
The Health Department has provided 3167 vaccinations in five clinics thus far. The supply continues to be low and thus eligibility guidelines remain restricted. There is a lot of demand and some turned away who felt that their health situation should have made them eligible were unhappy but thus far Charles Murphy feels that things are going very well. He would like to have more providers -- All H1N1 vaccine will be processed through the Health Department for the County and Manhattan -- but understands the reluctance of other providers as the paper work required could be described as “overwhelming”. He praised the staff for their effectiveness. Financial support is expected to help with the program but has not arrived as yet. Mr. Murphy expects that when the supply of vaccine is available the next eligible group will be larger and will require greater effort and perhaps larger clinics. All the H1N1 information is kept current on the County web site at: www.rileycountyks,gov.
The board voted to replace a vehicle at $18,324 from Don Hattan Chevrolet in Wichita which had the low bid.
The City of Manhattan has requested consideration of a plan for water retention on the Department’s land to prevent flooding. The Administration questions whether enough space is available as flooding has been as high as six feet deep and ten feet across. Such a plan might also limit future expansion.
The Board voted to approve an addendum to the Dental Clinic Lease waiving their rent for the first three months of the year since construction delays delayed the opening of the clinic until April.
Board member Bob Strawn (and Mayor of Manhattan) asked Suzanne Kufahl, Assistant Administrator, to present information to the board about inspections of Regulated Child Care. At the moment such homes are not required to be inspected. Mr. Strawn stated the City Commission is considering revisiting the issue of the passing an ordinance requiring inspection of Registered Child Care Homes to the already required inspections of Licensed Child Care Providers. Such an ordinance was voted down last year. Ms. Kufahl offered to present information to the Commission. She stated that surveys have shown that most people believe that these homes are inspected , but they are not unless there is a complaint. The Health Department is very much in favor of the ordinance. Some of the common complaint citings of Registered Day Care homes are: 1) over capacity, 2) improperly sleeping children under 18 months in car seats, bouncy seats, strollers, etc. where they can suffer harm from equipment not meant for sleeping, 3) lack of supervision 4) not child proofing, leaving household chemical in reach, for example
The agenda item to consider budget priorities related to the concept of essential services was tabled for next meeting.
Submitted by Sue Cohen, Observer
County Commission Oct. 29, 2009
Board of County Commissioners
October 29, 2009
Julie Merklin observer
All commissioners were present
Leon Hobson, Public Works director, presented a change order for the Law Enforcement Center expansion. When this project was designed, it was evident that more space was needed for the additional computer network capacity for the expansion of the LEC, so a distribution room was added to the plans. The intention was to have the wiring to this room installed by the same company which had done the work in the existing building and no telecommunications wiring to the distribution room was shown on the plans or specified.
However the original company no longer does this type of work. The contractor for the LEC expansion was asked for an estimate to install the wiring. The cost is $20, 608. This work would be done while the contractor is installing the other wiring, etc.
The commission approved the change, the funding for which is available in the Telephone and Communications line item for the LEC expansion.
The Commission was updated on the Regional Planning Organization (RPO). This concept was endorsed in the fall of 2007 by more than 40 regional stakeholders in the 3-county region of Geary, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties. This is in cooperation with other partners in a larger 7 county area including Fort Riley and KSU. A Steering Committee was established by the three counties and their principal cities, Junction City, Manhattan, and Wamego. The committee includes elected officials, chamber of commerce directors, and KSU and Fort Riley leaders.
This committee will design a strategic plan to address initial activities, a structure to define the organization, a budget, and an operations manual to guide policies. The name of the RPO is the Flint Hills Regional Council (FHRC).
Progress on the RPO can be followed on their website www.rpoproject.com
October 29, 2009
Julie Merklin observer
All commissioners were present
Leon Hobson, Public Works director, presented a change order for the Law Enforcement Center expansion. When this project was designed, it was evident that more space was needed for the additional computer network capacity for the expansion of the LEC, so a distribution room was added to the plans. The intention was to have the wiring to this room installed by the same company which had done the work in the existing building and no telecommunications wiring to the distribution room was shown on the plans or specified.
However the original company no longer does this type of work. The contractor for the LEC expansion was asked for an estimate to install the wiring. The cost is $20, 608. This work would be done while the contractor is installing the other wiring, etc.
The commission approved the change, the funding for which is available in the Telephone and Communications line item for the LEC expansion.
The Commission was updated on the Regional Planning Organization (RPO). This concept was endorsed in the fall of 2007 by more than 40 regional stakeholders in the 3-county region of Geary, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties. This is in cooperation with other partners in a larger 7 county area including Fort Riley and KSU. A Steering Committee was established by the three counties and their principal cities, Junction City, Manhattan, and Wamego. The committee includes elected officials, chamber of commerce directors, and KSU and Fort Riley leaders.
This committee will design a strategic plan to address initial activities, a structure to define the organization, a budget, and an operations manual to guide policies. The name of the RPO is the Flint Hills Regional Council (FHRC).
Progress on the RPO can be followed on their website www.rpoproject.com
Monday, October 26, 2009
Riley County Commission
October 26, 2009
Joan Strickler, Observer
Commissioners Kearns and McCulloh present, Kearns chaired.
In an informal discussion it appeared the Agape Church tax delinquency matter may be resolved. Agape no longer owns the property, it now belongs to the bank and the bank has paid the overdue taxes. Arrangements may be made to reach a new agreement between the bank and Agape to allow use of the building. Agape had failed to file papers requesting tax free status with the State.
The Health Department is currently out of H1N1 vaccine but expects more to be available in the near future. The hospital emergency room has experienced a doubling in requests for services. In addition to the Health Department, the vaccine may be offered through private providers when supplies are adequate. Persons who believe they may have had the flu are encouraged to get the vaccine anyway.
Commissioner Johnson arrived at 10:20 a.m. and chaired the rest of the meeting. Budget and Finance Officer Johnette Shepek and Public Works Director Leon Hobson discussed concerns about budget overruns in the RCPD budget. An estimated $60,000 to $70,000 may have to come out of County general funds to meet the shortfall. Hobson expressed frustration that some bills are sent to him without his having any opportunity to review and approve even though they come out of his budget. It was agreed that, since the RCPD is, essentially, a tenant in the County owned building, expenditures related to the building should be approved by the County except in emergency situations. Meetings will be held in an attempt to work out procedural agreements.
It was reported federal officials may be willing to commit up to $2 million in stimulus funds for a building to serve as home for a regional aTa bus transportation hub. The federal government would pay 100 percent of the cost of the structure. The County would be expected to donate its land to be used for building. The County would retain ownership of the land but would be required to agree to a minimum lease of 40 years. The Commissioners expressed a willingness to pursue the effort.
Joan Strickler, Observer
Commissioners Kearns and McCulloh present, Kearns chaired.
In an informal discussion it appeared the Agape Church tax delinquency matter may be resolved. Agape no longer owns the property, it now belongs to the bank and the bank has paid the overdue taxes. Arrangements may be made to reach a new agreement between the bank and Agape to allow use of the building. Agape had failed to file papers requesting tax free status with the State.
The Health Department is currently out of H1N1 vaccine but expects more to be available in the near future. The hospital emergency room has experienced a doubling in requests for services. In addition to the Health Department, the vaccine may be offered through private providers when supplies are adequate. Persons who believe they may have had the flu are encouraged to get the vaccine anyway.
Commissioner Johnson arrived at 10:20 a.m. and chaired the rest of the meeting. Budget and Finance Officer Johnette Shepek and Public Works Director Leon Hobson discussed concerns about budget overruns in the RCPD budget. An estimated $60,000 to $70,000 may have to come out of County general funds to meet the shortfall. Hobson expressed frustration that some bills are sent to him without his having any opportunity to review and approve even though they come out of his budget. It was agreed that, since the RCPD is, essentially, a tenant in the County owned building, expenditures related to the building should be approved by the County except in emergency situations. Meetings will be held in an attempt to work out procedural agreements.
It was reported federal officials may be willing to commit up to $2 million in stimulus funds for a building to serve as home for a regional aTa bus transportation hub. The federal government would pay 100 percent of the cost of the structure. The County would be expected to donate its land to be used for building. The County would retain ownership of the land but would be required to agree to a minimum lease of 40 years. The Commissioners expressed a willingness to pursue the effort.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
County Commission Oct. 19
County Commission meeting Oct 19, 2009
Julie Merklin observing
McCulloh and Kearns present. Kearns presiding
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer announced that the budget book and brochure are available on the county website.
Barry Wilkerson, County Attorney gave the case statistics up to Oct. 15, 2009 and a comparison with previous years’ complete statistics. Based on current activities he anticipates exceeding all of last years’ case filings by this year’s end.
Wilkerson said that because of the hiring freeze and possible furloughs, his office will be very short-handed in the future. Because of mandatory time limits for getting people arraigned and required time frames in getting children removed from dangerous home situations, things will be very difficult. Courts are for the people and they need timely access.
The director of aTa bus said that some grant money may be available to construct an aTa facility and she asked if the county would think of donating land by the new county shop site. The Commission thought it would be a good idea, especially as it looks like there might be no cost to the county and the 2-3 acres requested would be available.
Pat Collins reported on the upcoming Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Banquet. There are 160-170 unpaid volunteers and they respond to some 400 calls in a year.
The Commission and all present were given a tour of one the new ambulances. It was pointed out that now there are airbags that deploy in case of rollover accidents.
Julie Merklin observing
McCulloh and Kearns present. Kearns presiding
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer announced that the budget book and brochure are available on the county website.
Barry Wilkerson, County Attorney gave the case statistics up to Oct. 15, 2009 and a comparison with previous years’ complete statistics. Based on current activities he anticipates exceeding all of last years’ case filings by this year’s end.
Wilkerson said that because of the hiring freeze and possible furloughs, his office will be very short-handed in the future. Because of mandatory time limits for getting people arraigned and required time frames in getting children removed from dangerous home situations, things will be very difficult. Courts are for the people and they need timely access.
The director of aTa bus said that some grant money may be available to construct an aTa facility and she asked if the county would think of donating land by the new county shop site. The Commission thought it would be a good idea, especially as it looks like there might be no cost to the county and the 2-3 acres requested would be available.
Pat Collins reported on the upcoming Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Banquet. There are 160-170 unpaid volunteers and they respond to some 400 calls in a year.
The Commission and all present were given a tour of one the new ambulances. It was pointed out that now there are airbags that deploy in case of rollover accidents.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Riley County Commission
Joan Strickler, observer
10/22/09
All Commissioners present, Johnson presiding.
By unanimous vote the Commission agreed to approve the resolution “adopting a comprehensive plan for the unincorporated areas of Riley County, Kansas, by the adoption, by reference, of that certain document known as Vision 2025 – a Comprehensive Plan for Riley County, Kansas 2009”. According to Planning Director Monty Wedel the really difficult part begins now with the development of the regulatory framework to implement the plan. He requested permission to continue utilizing the services of Clarion and Associates in that process. Commission members agreed to consider such a contract with Clarion but only after they can review a detailed scope of work to be covered by the contract.
The Commissioners discussed the advisability of the County internet technology services being more fully extended to the Health Department. Currently the Health Department has its own computer system separate from the County system. Commissioner McCulloh was asked to discuss the issue with the Health Board.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman said efforts are continuing to be made to get general agreement from local governmental entities adjacent to military installations on proposed amendments to HB 2069. The bill was proposed by the military and would restrict land use in certain adjacent areas. It is hoped the amendments will be placed on the Kansas Association of Counties’ legislative platform.
It was reported that the Agape Church may lose its building pursuant to non-payment of taxes. Agape had failed to apply for a tax-exempt status and such applications cannot be filed retroactively.
A petition for recall of the Ogden City Mayor has been certified by the Riley County Attorney. The recall committee must obtain 81 signatures to place the issue on the election ballot.
10/22/09
All Commissioners present, Johnson presiding.
By unanimous vote the Commission agreed to approve the resolution “adopting a comprehensive plan for the unincorporated areas of Riley County, Kansas, by the adoption, by reference, of that certain document known as Vision 2025 – a Comprehensive Plan for Riley County, Kansas 2009”. According to Planning Director Monty Wedel the really difficult part begins now with the development of the regulatory framework to implement the plan. He requested permission to continue utilizing the services of Clarion and Associates in that process. Commission members agreed to consider such a contract with Clarion but only after they can review a detailed scope of work to be covered by the contract.
The Commissioners discussed the advisability of the County internet technology services being more fully extended to the Health Department. Currently the Health Department has its own computer system separate from the County system. Commissioner McCulloh was asked to discuss the issue with the Health Board.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman said efforts are continuing to be made to get general agreement from local governmental entities adjacent to military installations on proposed amendments to HB 2069. The bill was proposed by the military and would restrict land use in certain adjacent areas. It is hoped the amendments will be placed on the Kansas Association of Counties’ legislative platform.
It was reported that the Agape Church may lose its building pursuant to non-payment of taxes. Agape had failed to apply for a tax-exempt status and such applications cannot be filed retroactively.
A petition for recall of the Ogden City Mayor has been certified by the Riley County Attorney. The recall committee must obtain 81 signatures to place the issue on the election ballot.
USD 383 Board of Education
Oct. 21, 2009
Kathy Dzewaltowski, Observer
Work session:
The Ebert Mayo Design Group presented the board with pre-schematic designs for Northview Elementary. Board members expressed concerns about equity among the larger elementary schools in terms of the number of "dedicated" classrooms (i.e. rooms for music, computer lab, art, etc.).
Regular meeting:
The board was presented with plans for reviewing math curriculum for grades K-5 and adopting a resource. Board members said they would like to see more students prepared to take Algebra I in 7th grade.
The board received information about the district's performance on state assessments. The district earned 90 "Standards of Excellence," and the scores of African-American and Hispanic students had improved significantly.
The final schematic design for Lee Elementary was discussed. The board discussed $300,000 in unforeseen site improvements planned for the project and whether to use contingency funds or delete items. For example, the school's existing water main is not large enough to support a fire sprinkler system, so a larger main will need to be installed. Board members decided that there are enough contingency funds to cover the $300,000 and approved the schematic design.
The board discussed at length the four firms which had been interviewed for the Construction Manager At-Risk position for the MHS and Bishop Stadium construction projects. Board members discussed each firm's references, experience, safety, how well they interviewed, and general pros and cons.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Riley County Commission, Oct 15, 2009
No meeting of Riley County Commission on Columbus Day, Oct 12.
October 15: Mr. Johnson absent.
Pat Collins, Director of Emergency Services, requested permission for travel on County Business. Approved, 2-1. He distributed a Quarterly Report of his department's activities. Among the 114 fire calls, 84 were grass fires. There were 51 hazardous conditions calls, 149 rescues (134 of which were Emergency Medical Service), and 54 false calls (7 malicious, 37 unintentional) among other calls, for a total of 368 during the quarter.
Debbie Regester reported on activities year-to-date in the Register of Deeds office. The revenues for document registrations is down considerably because of decrease in real estate sales in the County. To make budget, they would need $125,000 in the final quarter of the year. This will not happen.
Commissioners had an informal discussion of the upcoming meeting of the Kansas Association of Counties in Kansas City November 15-17.
Clancy Holeman discussed an "inter-local agreement" draft.
Ginny Barnard, County Extension Agent, reported on her office's Nutrition, Health and Welfare Programs. They are mainly concentrated on education. Programs are provided for school children and pre-school children, as well as the Job Corps and soon for Flint Hills Community Clinic. Ms. Barnard will make the presentations herself upon request, and materials are available for use by teachers who wish to present them themselves.
Brad Schoen, Director of RCPD, said construction at the LEC is progressing normally. He had heard that Konza might drop out of inmate health care, for personnel reasons. This will be taken up at the Law Board Meeting Monday.
Bob Isaac, Planner, held a public meeting for a replat of an area in Grandview Heights subdivision (west of Tuttle Creek Lake). The petitioner is Blake Richards. Approved 2-0.
Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
October 15: Mr. Johnson absent.
Pat Collins, Director of Emergency Services, requested permission for travel on County Business. Approved, 2-1. He distributed a Quarterly Report of his department's activities. Among the 114 fire calls, 84 were grass fires. There were 51 hazardous conditions calls, 149 rescues (134 of which were Emergency Medical Service), and 54 false calls (7 malicious, 37 unintentional) among other calls, for a total of 368 during the quarter.
Debbie Regester reported on activities year-to-date in the Register of Deeds office. The revenues for document registrations is down considerably because of decrease in real estate sales in the County. To make budget, they would need $125,000 in the final quarter of the year. This will not happen.
Commissioners had an informal discussion of the upcoming meeting of the Kansas Association of Counties in Kansas City November 15-17.
Clancy Holeman discussed an "inter-local agreement" draft.
Ginny Barnard, County Extension Agent, reported on her office's Nutrition, Health and Welfare Programs. They are mainly concentrated on education. Programs are provided for school children and pre-school children, as well as the Job Corps and soon for Flint Hills Community Clinic. Ms. Barnard will make the presentations herself upon request, and materials are available for use by teachers who wish to present them themselves.
Brad Schoen, Director of RCPD, said construction at the LEC is progressing normally. He had heard that Konza might drop out of inmate health care, for personnel reasons. This will be taken up at the Law Board Meeting Monday.
Bob Isaac, Planner, held a public meeting for a replat of an area in Grandview Heights subdivision (west of Tuttle Creek Lake). The petitioner is Blake Richards. Approved 2-0.
Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
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