Joan Strickler, observer
All Commissioners present, McCulloh presiding.
Commissioner Lewis discussed the need for an enhanced speaker system in the Commission room that will make it easier for persons in the back of the room to hear the Commissioners’ comments. He asked that staff be prepared to discuss options for the installation of a new speaker system prior to initiating the work on cleaning and changing the room’s ceiling tiles.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman said SB 40, dealing with emergency repairs to county buildings, remains in the Appropriations Committee. He said Rep. Schwartz advised against trying to get it moved out to another committee since it could lose any chance to be voted on in the current session. Most bills in committees are dead at this time in a legislative session unless they are assigned to certain “blessed” committees such as Appropriations or Ways and Means.
There was concern expressed about a bill, apparently introduced late in the session, pertaining to the origin for sales taxes to be applied in internet sales transactions. The bill would give retailers the option of utilizing either the sales tax percentage at the item’s destination or the seller’s origin. County Treasurer Eileen King is concerned that Riley County and Manhattan could lose significant tax income if the bill passes. Bills introduced late in a legislative session do not receive much study in committees and can be voted on without real public input and without giving legislators time for study.
County Planner Bob Isaak presented the Vision 2025 Plan. It was reviewed and passed by the Planning Board with no recommendations for changes or modifications. The Commission voted to approve the Plan.
Susanne Kufahl, with the Riley County Health Department, gave a power point presentation on the Healthy Families Program. The Commission agreed to send a letter to the granting authority indicating their continuing support for the program.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Riley County Commission March 28, 2011
Joan Strickler,observer
All Commissioners present, McCulloh presiding.
Commissioners approved providing funds for an Early Childhood Block Grant match request to the Riley County/Manhattan Health Department.
It was announced that Governor Brownback will be on hand for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the County Shop Site on April 13. The ceremony is in honor of the “Resourceful Kansas Project” recognizing the environmentally friendly steps taken in building the facility, including the wind power generator now operating on the premises.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman reported SB 40 currently has been left sitting in the Appropriations Committee in the House. The bill would allow counties to by-pass the competitive bid process in dealing with funding repairs to buildings in emergencies. At times non-controversial bills are held in a committee to be used as vehicles to push a vote on more controversial issues by amending them into the original bill.
County Treasurer Eileen King said Thursday is the deadline for last names beginning with B to renew vehicle licenses. Names beginning with C and D will be due in April.
County Clerk Rich Vargo reminded voters that advance voting is occurring at the Courthouse and will continue until noon, April 4. Poll voting begins April 5. Traditionally there is very low turnout for City and County elections.
The Commission is planning to hold some of its meetings next month in Randolph, Ogden, Leonardville and Riley.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. A recognition ceremony will begin with a noon event to be held April l at the Courthouse Plaza.
County Engineer Leon Hobson said, since the Commissioners have made the decision to remain in the current building, there is a need to pursue some building renovations. He plans to have his staff start replacing and cleaning ceiling tiles as well as paint walls in public use areas. Offices will be repaired later.
The McDowell Creek Bridge has now been estimated to cost $150,000 to $200,000 to repair. With that in mind Hobson is recommending the Commission plan to repair the bridge rather than totally replace it. The Commission agreed to add that project to those to be included in the bond issue.
The meeting ended at approximately 10:30 a.m., with final adjournment to follow the Intergovernmental Luncheon.
All Commissioners present, McCulloh presiding.
Commissioners approved providing funds for an Early Childhood Block Grant match request to the Riley County/Manhattan Health Department.
It was announced that Governor Brownback will be on hand for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the County Shop Site on April 13. The ceremony is in honor of the “Resourceful Kansas Project” recognizing the environmentally friendly steps taken in building the facility, including the wind power generator now operating on the premises.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman reported SB 40 currently has been left sitting in the Appropriations Committee in the House. The bill would allow counties to by-pass the competitive bid process in dealing with funding repairs to buildings in emergencies. At times non-controversial bills are held in a committee to be used as vehicles to push a vote on more controversial issues by amending them into the original bill.
County Treasurer Eileen King said Thursday is the deadline for last names beginning with B to renew vehicle licenses. Names beginning with C and D will be due in April.
County Clerk Rich Vargo reminded voters that advance voting is occurring at the Courthouse and will continue until noon, April 4. Poll voting begins April 5. Traditionally there is very low turnout for City and County elections.
The Commission is planning to hold some of its meetings next month in Randolph, Ogden, Leonardville and Riley.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. A recognition ceremony will begin with a noon event to be held April l at the Courthouse Plaza.
County Engineer Leon Hobson said, since the Commissioners have made the decision to remain in the current building, there is a need to pursue some building renovations. He plans to have his staff start replacing and cleaning ceiling tiles as well as paint walls in public use areas. Offices will be repaired later.
The McDowell Creek Bridge has now been estimated to cost $150,000 to $200,000 to repair. With that in mind Hobson is recommending the Commission plan to repair the bridge rather than totally replace it. The Commission agreed to add that project to those to be included in the bond issue.
The meeting ended at approximately 10:30 a.m., with final adjournment to follow the Intergovernmental Luncheon.
Friday, March 25, 2011
USD 383 Board of Education
March 16, 2011
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
Work session:
The work session focused on the construction project at Roosevelt Elementary. All of the bids submitted were over budget, so administration recommended transferring savings from the Ogden and Northview projects so that the Roosevelt project can move forward and not have to be rebid. The board will have the ability to negotiate with the contractor and find savings after the contract has been awarded.
Regular meeting:
Dr. Tiffany Powell, Diversity Coordinator, presented a report on the district's diversity initiatives. Dr. Powell's report indicated that student achievement for minorities has significantly improved in math and reading.
The board discussed with Mike Mayo, the architect who developed the overall building improvements for the district, why bids are coming in higher now than earlier bids. Board members had been concerned that projects were being designed to use the maximum funds budgeted instead of designing according to needs. Mayo said that projects are being designed according to what was specified, and some spaces are simply more costly to renovate than others. Mayo said that the average of all of the projects together is still a little under budget.
The board returned to the discussion of the Roosevelt project begun during the work session. Walt Pesaresi felt the board needed to discuss its philosophy for using project savings. Pesaresi thought the board had agreed to put project savings in a "lock box" and didn't think the board had agreed to use savings from one school to support the project at another school. Doug Messer said that certain projects will go over budget, and the board should use project savings judiciously and not delay the Roosevelt project. The board approved 7-0 to use project savings from Ogden and Northview for the Roosevelt project so it can move forward.
Board members reviewed the calendar for the 2011-12 school year. A float work day was moved from Jan. 3 to Jan. 2, which then allowed a professional development day to be moved from Jan. 4 to Jan. 3. The inclement weather make-up days will be Saturday, May 19, and Friday, May 25. Pesaresi thought students will not come to school on a Saturday to make up a snow day. Other board members were also hesitant to list a Saturday as a make-up day. The state requires the calendar to reflect possible make-up days, but the board could add additional minutes to the school day or use May 25 instead. The board approved the calendar 7-0.
Board members also discussed potential funding decreases from the state. The base per pupil funding may be reduced by $75, which would mean a reduction of $562,000 for USD 383.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
BOCC March 24, 2011
BOCC March 24 All Commissioners present, McCulloh presiding.
The topic of a County Administrator was discussed by the Commission. Many different items have to be considered including looking at costs in counties that have an administrator. Would responsibilities be moved from departments that now handle them? Commissioner Johnson said that his mostly rural constituents prefer the system we now have, and do not have as much trust in a non-elected layer of government.
Barry Wilkerson, County Attorney, reported on mental health issues, telling the Commission that Osawatomie will not take anyone over the age of 70 so there is no place for someone in need of mental health hospitalization since Mercy closed their psychiatric ward.
Johnette Shepek gave an update on the CIP, County Building, Economic Development and ½ cent sales tax.
Robert Nall, Information Technology Director, gave his monthly update including information on the new pending VOIP system. He is waiting on firm numbers on costs. The Commission commended Nall on his work.
Clancy Holeman, Counselor said that Senate Bill 40, which involves authorization for emergency repairs on County buildings to be done without going out for bids is still “live” and there is hope it will be considered.
Gary Rosewicz, Assistant County Engineer talked about tree waste disposal. There is a firm in Topeka that is interested in disposing of this tree waste which will be used as biomass fuel for Frito Lay. There are problems with the current procedure of burning this material – having the right weather conditions, the concerns of EPA with air quality, etc. There would still be suitable “clean” wood available where people can get it and use for firewood.
Pat Collins, Emergency Management Director, informed the Commission about Purchase cards which are used by County employees for County purchases. These also give back a “revenue share” as a percentage of the amount charged. They also are able to provide a more detailed record of the purchases.
Julie Merklin, Observer
The topic of a County Administrator was discussed by the Commission. Many different items have to be considered including looking at costs in counties that have an administrator. Would responsibilities be moved from departments that now handle them? Commissioner Johnson said that his mostly rural constituents prefer the system we now have, and do not have as much trust in a non-elected layer of government.
Barry Wilkerson, County Attorney, reported on mental health issues, telling the Commission that Osawatomie will not take anyone over the age of 70 so there is no place for someone in need of mental health hospitalization since Mercy closed their psychiatric ward.
Johnette Shepek gave an update on the CIP, County Building, Economic Development and ½ cent sales tax.
Robert Nall, Information Technology Director, gave his monthly update including information on the new pending VOIP system. He is waiting on firm numbers on costs. The Commission commended Nall on his work.
Clancy Holeman, Counselor said that Senate Bill 40, which involves authorization for emergency repairs on County buildings to be done without going out for bids is still “live” and there is hope it will be considered.
Gary Rosewicz, Assistant County Engineer talked about tree waste disposal. There is a firm in Topeka that is interested in disposing of this tree waste which will be used as biomass fuel for Frito Lay. There are problems with the current procedure of burning this material – having the right weather conditions, the concerns of EPA with air quality, etc. There would still be suitable “clean” wood available where people can get it and use for firewood.
Pat Collins, Emergency Management Director, informed the Commission about Purchase cards which are used by County employees for County purchases. These also give back a “revenue share” as a percentage of the amount charged. They also are able to provide a more detailed record of the purchases.
Julie Merklin, Observer
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
County Commission March 21, 2011
Riley County BOCC March 21
All Commissioners were present.
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer presented the calendar for the 2012 Budget. There are a series of target dates for the various steps in preparing the budget, including presentations and requests from the various departments and the outside entities which request funding from the County. This process will culminate in public hearings on the completed proposed Budget.
Cheryl Collins, Director of the Riley County Historical Society and Museum announced that she would speak on “Prohibition in Manhattan: Conflicting Views and Violence” on Tuesday, March 29 at noon at the historical museum. Admission is free and all are invited. This is the second of 6 Kansas 150 Lunch Time Lectures. Future dates are May 17, July12, Sept 13 and November 15.
Rich Vargo announced that the City Commission and USD 383 elections will be April 5 with voting from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Advance voting in person begins March 22 at the County offices on the second floor.
Vargo also said the Dept of Wildlife and Parks is offering Vehicle Permits at an off-season price of $19.70 available from January 1 to March 31 and good for the rest of the year. These are available at the County Clerk’s office.
Clancy Holeman, Counselor/Director of Administrative Services said that his office will have an unpaid intern who is a second year law student working in his office in June and July. She will be doing research and get academic credit for this.
Julie Merklin observer
All Commissioners were present.
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer presented the calendar for the 2012 Budget. There are a series of target dates for the various steps in preparing the budget, including presentations and requests from the various departments and the outside entities which request funding from the County. This process will culminate in public hearings on the completed proposed Budget.
Cheryl Collins, Director of the Riley County Historical Society and Museum announced that she would speak on “Prohibition in Manhattan: Conflicting Views and Violence” on Tuesday, March 29 at noon at the historical museum. Admission is free and all are invited. This is the second of 6 Kansas 150 Lunch Time Lectures. Future dates are May 17, July12, Sept 13 and November 15.
Rich Vargo announced that the City Commission and USD 383 elections will be April 5 with voting from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Advance voting in person begins March 22 at the County offices on the second floor.
Vargo also said the Dept of Wildlife and Parks is offering Vehicle Permits at an off-season price of $19.70 available from January 1 to March 31 and good for the rest of the year. These are available at the County Clerk’s office.
Clancy Holeman, Counselor/Director of Administrative Services said that his office will have an unpaid intern who is a second year law student working in his office in June and July. She will be doing research and get academic credit for this.
Julie Merklin observer
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Riley County Commission mtg 3-17-11
All Commissioners present. In routine business, Commissioners gave final approval (3-0) to expenditures of $12,700 to purchase new software for annual maintenance for ESRI for GIS and of $218,686 for the new telephony system (VOIP).
Greg McClure, Extension, reported on "Annie's Project," a seminar for Women in Agriculture. Twenty-five women were in attendance, including 12 from Riley County. Other participants included women from eastern and western counties as well as nearby counties. They heard presentations on several topics, including business management, financial statements, leases, estate planning, and communication skills. The project will probably be repeated next year.
Ginny Barnard, Extension, said "Walk Kansas" is underway, with 95 teams, over 600 people participating. They now have also resistance training. Get a resistance band for $1.00. The program ends on May 18, with a celebration at Pottorff Hall at 5:30.
Gregg Eyestone, Extension, said today is the day to plant potatoes and peas. Master Gardener trained 7 new candidates. Thirty-seven Master Gardeners have carried over. It is not a lifetime title, but must be renewed periodically. They will have a new training session in the Fall--a State sponsored program at KSU. Gardener outreach involves many hours, many people, much value. A workshop on April 2 "Back to Gardening" will be at UFM Community Center. There will be several educational presentations and a plant swap from 9:00 to 1:00.
Clancy Holeman, County Counselor, conducted an Administrative Work Session.The KAC has notified Riley County of Legislative activity. HB227 would remove post-sentence supervision of DUI offenders to County Community Corrections from State Dept. of Corrections. Holeman notified our Legislators that Riley County is opposed to this. KAC has suggested one amendment to the 911 bill: a small increase in the line fee. About 25 amendments have been lined up to "dump" on this bill. These would make compromises very difficult. Riley County opposes these, except for the one proposed by KAC. Holeman will attend a meeting at 1:00 today concerning fixed AtA routes within the City. Interlocal agreements are needed for AtA with the County, City, and KSU.
Laurie Harrison, Emergency Management Coordinator, presented the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan which her group has compiled with a 2007 Grant. It is meant to lessen the effects of various natural hazards (apparently including only natural hazards , not accidents at NBAF or KSU nuclear reactor). The plan is multi-jurisdictional, including City, three School districts, KSU, Ft. Riley, County small cities and Riley County. All entities except Riley County have passed resolutions adopting the plan. Commissioners asked to receive written copies of the nineteen items relating to Riley County and will plan to adopt it by resolution next Thursday. Clancy Holeman reuested time to study plan for legal implications.
Meeting to be adjourned following special Law Board Meeting this evening. Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
Greg McClure, Extension, reported on "Annie's Project," a seminar for Women in Agriculture. Twenty-five women were in attendance, including 12 from Riley County. Other participants included women from eastern and western counties as well as nearby counties. They heard presentations on several topics, including business management, financial statements, leases, estate planning, and communication skills. The project will probably be repeated next year.
Ginny Barnard, Extension, said "Walk Kansas" is underway, with 95 teams, over 600 people participating. They now have also resistance training. Get a resistance band for $1.00. The program ends on May 18, with a celebration at Pottorff Hall at 5:30.
Gregg Eyestone, Extension, said today is the day to plant potatoes and peas. Master Gardener trained 7 new candidates. Thirty-seven Master Gardeners have carried over. It is not a lifetime title, but must be renewed periodically. They will have a new training session in the Fall--a State sponsored program at KSU. Gardener outreach involves many hours, many people, much value. A workshop on April 2 "Back to Gardening" will be at UFM Community Center. There will be several educational presentations and a plant swap from 9:00 to 1:00.
Clancy Holeman, County Counselor, conducted an Administrative Work Session.The KAC has notified Riley County of Legislative activity. HB227 would remove post-sentence supervision of DUI offenders to County Community Corrections from State Dept. of Corrections. Holeman notified our Legislators that Riley County is opposed to this. KAC has suggested one amendment to the 911 bill: a small increase in the line fee. About 25 amendments have been lined up to "dump" on this bill. These would make compromises very difficult. Riley County opposes these, except for the one proposed by KAC. Holeman will attend a meeting at 1:00 today concerning fixed AtA routes within the City. Interlocal agreements are needed for AtA with the County, City, and KSU.
Laurie Harrison, Emergency Management Coordinator, presented the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan which her group has compiled with a 2007 Grant. It is meant to lessen the effects of various natural hazards (apparently including only natural hazards , not accidents at NBAF or KSU nuclear reactor). The plan is multi-jurisdictional, including City, three School districts, KSU, Ft. Riley, County small cities and Riley County. All entities except Riley County have passed resolutions adopting the plan. Commissioners asked to receive written copies of the nineteen items relating to Riley County and will plan to adopt it by resolution next Thursday. Clancy Holeman reuested time to study plan for legal implications.
Meeting to be adjourned following special Law Board Meeting this evening. Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Riley County Commission mtg 3-14-11
All Commissioners present. Rich Vargo gave the Year-to-date report on budget and expenditures. He reported the finishing of 2010 and to date on 2011. No funds have exceeded budget enough for concern. The contract with a medical services manage-ment firm for RCPD inmates has proven to be economical already. Hospital and physician visits off-site have been decreased by the presence on-site of a qualified Physician Assistant, who is able to deal with many cases.
Chris Welchhans, GIS Coordinator, said his department is replacing PCs next week. He reported on his meetings with State GIS division, Legislators and Governor in Topeka
Brad Schoen, Director RCPD, reported on activities of PD, Fire Dept, Emergency Management, Community Corrections, KSU Police, and other entities on "Fake Patty's Day." Between 7:00 a.m. Saturday and 7:00 a.m. Sunday police received 766 calls for service, up 65% from last year. So far they have catalogued 202 citations (incomplete report). Most calls were actually outside Aggieville, but usually related to Aggieville activities (drinking, fighting, falling down, etc).Every sworn officer on the force was on duty 12 hours. Last year overtime cost $5,000. It will be more this year. Schoen said he was grateful that were NO very servious incidents this year. Police remained friendly with the crowd and received many compliments and thanks from the public. As far as businesses are concerned, Schoen said this is not a profitable day. A large majority of the citations and calls for service were because of out-of-town visitors. Hotels are full and bars serve a lot of beer, but these people do not come to shop. They have one aim: to "get drunk and puke on our streets."
Larry Couchman, Emergency Services, said they received 53 calls (4 of them not related to Patty). They were mostly alcohol problems or related to alcohol (fights, unconsciousness, accidents of drunken people). He does not yet know how many Emergency Room visits there were. Last year there were 100. By way of comparison, he said that in the 5 days of the Country Stampede, there were 14 ambulance transports in 2010, as compared to 20 transports on this Fake Patty's Day. Again, Country Stampede people mostly come for another purpose than getting drunk and puking. Couchman and Schoen agreed that, operationally, this event was successful, with great cooperation of services and efficient planning.
Doug Messer, Asst Fire Chief of Riley County, said it is time to change clocks (yesterday) and to change batteries in your smoke alarms--even if they seem okay. This is life or death. Use the old batteries in a toy or something not vital.If alarms are more than 10 years old, they should be replaced. The date is printed inside. If it isn't, the alarm is more than years old. Also, families should have exit drills and learn their meeting place.
Rich Vargo said 2011 turkey permits are now available for $22.50 ($12.50 for youth).For the City/School election on April 5, advance voting begins March 26 and ends noon April 4. Registration closes March 21.
Leon Hobson gave an update on projects. They will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony in late April (26 or 27, probably) at the shop site for the wind turbines. The Governor is invited. Date depends on his convenience.
Clancy Holeman held an Administrative Work Session, updating Commission on Legislative matters. Craig Cox explained the complex situation of the property near Fairmont Park where County wants to install soccer fields. Ownership is in question, since Deutche Bank accidentally foreclosed on some County Property as well as that owned by a private person. DB apparently is refusing to discuss the matte, since they bundled that property into a "Toxic" fund and sold it. Cox proposes to try using a suit for "quiet title." They need to locate an agent for the Bank, since papers must be delivered in person.Commissioners agreed by consensus that Ogden City may receive "specials" tax payment from The $l.9 million KDOT paid RIM Corp for land needed for K-18 work. (RIM is in bankruptcy). They owe $300,000 approx. in Riley County property taxes, and $505,000 to Ogden for the specials (water, sewer, etc.) Since Ogden has bond payments to meet, County agrees to allow them first payment. Commissioners agreed to refuse the offer of Larry Prawl of "deed payment" for his property tax bill of $67,000. Cox said the land has been sold, so Prawl owns only the housing on it, much of which is decrepit and uninhabitable.The propert is the Maple Wind mobile home park in Ogden.
Cheryl Collins, Curator of Historical Museum, requested permission to change her title from Curator to Director. Other employees of the Museum now have Curator titles according to their specialties, so she felt the title of Director was more appropriate for her level of responsibility. Approved (enthusiastically) 3-0. Collins said the KS Museum Association will meet in Manhattan on March 28, in the Public Works Training Room. Collins expressed thanks to County employees for all the work they have put in on Museum properties, especially the beautiful blue outline painted on the parking lot, indicating the dimensions of the Hartford steamboat. Goodnow House and Wolfe House will both be ready for opening by May, if all goes well.
Pat Collins, Emergency Management Director, asked permission to dispose of old fire trucks and an air compressor. Com- mission agreed 3-0 to allow the fire trucks to be sold at auction and the air compressor to be sold to a fire equipment company. The fire equipment company will be responsible for bringing the compressor up to new standards before selling it. County can use payment to apply toward cost of new compressor.
All before noon! Adjourned. Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
Chris Welchhans, GIS Coordinator, said his department is replacing PCs next week. He reported on his meetings with State GIS division, Legislators and Governor in Topeka
Brad Schoen, Director RCPD, reported on activities of PD, Fire Dept, Emergency Management, Community Corrections, KSU Police, and other entities on "Fake Patty's Day." Between 7:00 a.m. Saturday and 7:00 a.m. Sunday police received 766 calls for service, up 65% from last year. So far they have catalogued 202 citations (incomplete report). Most calls were actually outside Aggieville, but usually related to Aggieville activities (drinking, fighting, falling down, etc).Every sworn officer on the force was on duty 12 hours. Last year overtime cost $5,000. It will be more this year. Schoen said he was grateful that were NO very servious incidents this year. Police remained friendly with the crowd and received many compliments and thanks from the public. As far as businesses are concerned, Schoen said this is not a profitable day. A large majority of the citations and calls for service were because of out-of-town visitors. Hotels are full and bars serve a lot of beer, but these people do not come to shop. They have one aim: to "get drunk and puke on our streets."
Larry Couchman, Emergency Services, said they received 53 calls (4 of them not related to Patty). They were mostly alcohol problems or related to alcohol (fights, unconsciousness, accidents of drunken people). He does not yet know how many Emergency Room visits there were. Last year there were 100. By way of comparison, he said that in the 5 days of the Country Stampede, there were 14 ambulance transports in 2010, as compared to 20 transports on this Fake Patty's Day. Again, Country Stampede people mostly come for another purpose than getting drunk and puking. Couchman and Schoen agreed that, operationally, this event was successful, with great cooperation of services and efficient planning.
Doug Messer, Asst Fire Chief of Riley County, said it is time to change clocks (yesterday) and to change batteries in your smoke alarms--even if they seem okay. This is life or death. Use the old batteries in a toy or something not vital.If alarms are more than 10 years old, they should be replaced. The date is printed inside. If it isn't, the alarm is more than years old. Also, families should have exit drills and learn their meeting place.
Rich Vargo said 2011 turkey permits are now available for $22.50 ($12.50 for youth).For the City/School election on April 5, advance voting begins March 26 and ends noon April 4. Registration closes March 21.
Leon Hobson gave an update on projects. They will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony in late April (26 or 27, probably) at the shop site for the wind turbines. The Governor is invited. Date depends on his convenience.
Clancy Holeman held an Administrative Work Session, updating Commission on Legislative matters. Craig Cox explained the complex situation of the property near Fairmont Park where County wants to install soccer fields. Ownership is in question, since Deutche Bank accidentally foreclosed on some County Property as well as that owned by a private person. DB apparently is refusing to discuss the matte, since they bundled that property into a "Toxic" fund and sold it. Cox proposes to try using a suit for "quiet title." They need to locate an agent for the Bank, since papers must be delivered in person.Commissioners agreed by consensus that Ogden City may receive "specials" tax payment from The $l.9 million KDOT paid RIM Corp for land needed for K-18 work. (RIM is in bankruptcy). They owe $300,000 approx. in Riley County property taxes, and $505,000 to Ogden for the specials (water, sewer, etc.) Since Ogden has bond payments to meet, County agrees to allow them first payment. Commissioners agreed to refuse the offer of Larry Prawl of "deed payment" for his property tax bill of $67,000. Cox said the land has been sold, so Prawl owns only the housing on it, much of which is decrepit and uninhabitable.The propert is the Maple Wind mobile home park in Ogden.
Cheryl Collins, Curator of Historical Museum, requested permission to change her title from Curator to Director. Other employees of the Museum now have Curator titles according to their specialties, so she felt the title of Director was more appropriate for her level of responsibility. Approved (enthusiastically) 3-0. Collins said the KS Museum Association will meet in Manhattan on March 28, in the Public Works Training Room. Collins expressed thanks to County employees for all the work they have put in on Museum properties, especially the beautiful blue outline painted on the parking lot, indicating the dimensions of the Hartford steamboat. Goodnow House and Wolfe House will both be ready for opening by May, if all goes well.
Pat Collins, Emergency Management Director, asked permission to dispose of old fire trucks and an air compressor. Com- mission agreed 3-0 to allow the fire trucks to be sold at auction and the air compressor to be sold to a fire equipment company. The fire equipment company will be responsible for bringing the compressor up to new standards before selling it. County can use payment to apply toward cost of new compressor.
All before noon! Adjourned. Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
USD 383 Board of Education
March 2, 2011
Kathy Dzewaltowski
Work session:
The work session focused on the budget. The proposed decreases in state per pupil funding will mean a decrease of $1.2 million to USD 383. The district will be receiving additional funds due to new facility weighting from the completed construction projects and from increased enrollment which would also raise the budget authority of the Local Option Budget. Increased enrollment and the expansion of facilities will necessitate hiring 4 additional teachers and 3 custodians and require more textbooks and classroom supplies.
Regular meeting:
The board received a report on Professional Learning Time (PLT) at the high school. PLT focuses on professional development, school improvement, and student achievement. Pete Paukstelis wanted to see an analysis that would show that PLT is valuable and has measurable outcomes, and Curt Herrman agreed. The PLT coordinator said that teachers do develop measurable "smart goals," and she could provide the board with the information at a future meeting.
Board members were presented with the 95% completed construction documents for Marlatt Elementary. The plans call for adding a gym and classrooms. Several board members were concerned about the city's requirement that the district address storm water drainage at Marlatt. They felt the drainage should not be solely the district's responsibility because the run-off does not come from the district's property. Paukstelis also asked about the project's budget and said he was worried that the plans have been designed to fit the budget and not the programming needs. The board approved the construction documents 7-0. In other construction news, the high school's project manager reported that the project is ahead of schedule and should be completed by the start of the 2012-13 school year.
The board returned to the budget discussion begun in the work session. Board members debated how to use the new facility weighting funds that the district will receive for 2 years after a construction project is completed. The funds will not be a long-term revenue source. Susan Marshall didn't want to base the budget on temporary funds and suggested using them for one-time expenses, such as textbook purchases. Doug Messer and Paukstelis agreed and also suggested using the funds for maintenance of the new facilities. Board members Walt Pesaresi and Dave Colburn thought the funds should be used as a "bridge" to hire new teachers and to prevent needing to raise the mill levy until such time that state funding increases. Superintendent Bob Shannon presented his recommendations for the budget, which included using $110/per pupil from the district's reserves ($654,000) and identifying additional budget cuts amounting to $600,000. Shannon also recommended using the new facility weighting funds to prevent cuts that would devastate the district and hope that the state's finances get better before the funds run out.
The board discussed the 2011-12 school calendar. Marshall suggested resuming school on Jan. 4 following Winter Break instead of Jan. 5, which would then mean May 25 could be used as an inclement weather make-up day. The board tabled the calendar discussion to allow administration to investigate additional options.
Board members also discussed a bill in the Kansas Legislature that would move school board elections from the spring to November. Nancy Knopp, Pesaresi, and Marshall supported the change because it would save money by eliminating an election and new board members would take office earlier before having to vote on the budget in August. Paukstelis and Messer disagreed and thought changing the date would take the focus off the local races and potentially make them more partisan. The board took no action, but Knopp encouraged individual board members to contact the local delegation with their thoughts.
Kathy Dzewaltowski
Work session:
The work session focused on the budget. The proposed decreases in state per pupil funding will mean a decrease of $1.2 million to USD 383. The district will be receiving additional funds due to new facility weighting from the completed construction projects and from increased enrollment which would also raise the budget authority of the Local Option Budget. Increased enrollment and the expansion of facilities will necessitate hiring 4 additional teachers and 3 custodians and require more textbooks and classroom supplies.
Regular meeting:
The board received a report on Professional Learning Time (PLT) at the high school. PLT focuses on professional development, school improvement, and student achievement. Pete Paukstelis wanted to see an analysis that would show that PLT is valuable and has measurable outcomes, and Curt Herrman agreed. The PLT coordinator said that teachers do develop measurable "smart goals," and she could provide the board with the information at a future meeting.
Board members were presented with the 95% completed construction documents for Marlatt Elementary. The plans call for adding a gym and classrooms. Several board members were concerned about the city's requirement that the district address storm water drainage at Marlatt. They felt the drainage should not be solely the district's responsibility because the run-off does not come from the district's property. Paukstelis also asked about the project's budget and said he was worried that the plans have been designed to fit the budget and not the programming needs. The board approved the construction documents 7-0. In other construction news, the high school's project manager reported that the project is ahead of schedule and should be completed by the start of the 2012-13 school year.
The board returned to the budget discussion begun in the work session. Board members debated how to use the new facility weighting funds that the district will receive for 2 years after a construction project is completed. The funds will not be a long-term revenue source. Susan Marshall didn't want to base the budget on temporary funds and suggested using them for one-time expenses, such as textbook purchases. Doug Messer and Paukstelis agreed and also suggested using the funds for maintenance of the new facilities. Board members Walt Pesaresi and Dave Colburn thought the funds should be used as a "bridge" to hire new teachers and to prevent needing to raise the mill levy until such time that state funding increases. Superintendent Bob Shannon presented his recommendations for the budget, which included using $110/per pupil from the district's reserves ($654,000) and identifying additional budget cuts amounting to $600,000. Shannon also recommended using the new facility weighting funds to prevent cuts that would devastate the district and hope that the state's finances get better before the funds run out.
The board discussed the 2011-12 school calendar. Marshall suggested resuming school on Jan. 4 following Winter Break instead of Jan. 5, which would then mean May 25 could be used as an inclement weather make-up day. The board tabled the calendar discussion to allow administration to investigate additional options.
Board members also discussed a bill in the Kansas Legislature that would move school board elections from the spring to November. Nancy Knopp, Pesaresi, and Marshall supported the change because it would save money by eliminating an election and new board members would take office earlier before having to vote on the budget in August. Paukstelis and Messer disagreed and thought changing the date would take the focus off the local races and potentially make them more partisan. The board took no action, but Knopp encouraged individual board members to contact the local delegation with their thoughts.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Riley County Commission Feb. 28, 2011
Joan Strickler, observer
All Commissioners present, McCulloh presiding.
Commissioners agreed to allow the Court Appointed Special Advocate group (CASA) to place a pinwheel display at the Courthouse Plaza on April l in recognition of child abuse prevention awareness. The display must be removed after one day.
Commissioners heard a report on the housing market in the County. The overall market has remained flat in that it has varied little from last year. While most home sales are in the $159,000 to $187,000 range, there has been an increase in sales of houses priced in the $200,000 to $275,000 range. Real estate valuation notices have been mailed and 57% of the evaluations remain within $100 of the previous year. While comparable sales data of houses is normally accessed only by subscribers to the County’s on-line appraisal information system, during the period of February 18th to March 21st anyone can access the information either online or by going to the County Appraiser’s office. Property data can be accessed through the County’s website at: www.rileycountyks.gov/parcel. To access individual properties’ sales go to: E-Gov Services>On-line Appraisal Data and log-in. The temporary User Name is informal and Password appeal.
The Riley County Police reported a large number of accidents occurred during the snow on Thursday. Planning currently is underway to deal with problems that arise during the Fake St. Pat’s Day celebration. All personnel will be on duty and additional inspectors are being brought in. Officers will be prepared to shut down streets if necessary. Last year cars were parked all over City Park. Plans are to rope off non parking areas and to tow cars in violation of parking restrictions. The event results in heavy drinking and draws many people from areas well beyond the Manhattan area.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman reported HB 2294, which would place heavy restrictions on a city’s annexation abilities, has passed the House and is now in the Senate. The Commissioners expressed concern about the potential impact of the bill.
Planning/Special Projects Director Monty Wedel asked the Commissioners if they wish to consider developing a Building Codes Implementation Plan for the County. Concerns have been expressed about poorly constructed properties sometimes causing dangerous situations in rural areas. Such a plan would require hiring or contracting with someone to perform the inspections. Commissioners agreed that such protections are needed and asked Wedel to develop some proposals for consideration.
Public Works Director Leon Hobson called attention to brick deterioration in front of the County Courthouse. He is worried that someone could trip and fall. Commissioners asked him to come back with options to consider in making repairs.
All Commissioners present, McCulloh presiding.
Commissioners agreed to allow the Court Appointed Special Advocate group (CASA) to place a pinwheel display at the Courthouse Plaza on April l in recognition of child abuse prevention awareness. The display must be removed after one day.
Commissioners heard a report on the housing market in the County. The overall market has remained flat in that it has varied little from last year. While most home sales are in the $159,000 to $187,000 range, there has been an increase in sales of houses priced in the $200,000 to $275,000 range. Real estate valuation notices have been mailed and 57% of the evaluations remain within $100 of the previous year. While comparable sales data of houses is normally accessed only by subscribers to the County’s on-line appraisal information system, during the period of February 18th to March 21st anyone can access the information either online or by going to the County Appraiser’s office. Property data can be accessed through the County’s website at: www.rileycountyks.gov/parcel. To access individual properties’ sales go to: E-Gov Services>On-line Appraisal Data and log-in. The temporary User Name is informal and Password appeal.
The Riley County Police reported a large number of accidents occurred during the snow on Thursday. Planning currently is underway to deal with problems that arise during the Fake St. Pat’s Day celebration. All personnel will be on duty and additional inspectors are being brought in. Officers will be prepared to shut down streets if necessary. Last year cars were parked all over City Park. Plans are to rope off non parking areas and to tow cars in violation of parking restrictions. The event results in heavy drinking and draws many people from areas well beyond the Manhattan area.
County Counselor Clancy Holeman reported HB 2294, which would place heavy restrictions on a city’s annexation abilities, has passed the House and is now in the Senate. The Commissioners expressed concern about the potential impact of the bill.
Planning/Special Projects Director Monty Wedel asked the Commissioners if they wish to consider developing a Building Codes Implementation Plan for the County. Concerns have been expressed about poorly constructed properties sometimes causing dangerous situations in rural areas. Such a plan would require hiring or contracting with someone to perform the inspections. Commissioners agreed that such protections are needed and asked Wedel to develop some proposals for consideration.
Public Works Director Leon Hobson called attention to brick deterioration in front of the County Courthouse. He is worried that someone could trip and fall. Commissioners asked him to come back with options to consider in making repairs.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Health Board
THE RILEY COUNTY-MANHATTAN BOARD OF HEALTH
February 23, 2011
Observer Report
Condensed report of the January meeting gleaned from the minutes.
I was unable to attend the January Board meeting because of the weather.
However, I’d like to include some information from the minutes of that meeting in
this report. Dr. James D. Gardner spoke about the continuing need for prevention
of smoking in young people. The Board approved continuing this effort despite the loss
of the tobacco grant money.
Two new members have been appointed to the Board. Barbara Sollner will
take the nursing position and Dr. Rick Fulton will represent the dentists. The officers
for this year will be the same as last year: Brady Burton as President, Dr. Paul Hesse as
Vice President, and Doug Finney as Treasurer.
Charles Murphy, Administrator reported that a case of cholera had been confirmed
in a person recently returned from Haiti and that head lice had been reported in the schools
and was believed to be under control. Mr. Murphy also reported that the city has decided to
keep the grease trap management program with the public works department. (See previous
reports for background).
Mr. Murphy, concerned that the Health Department would be unable to enforce the
their food service code without a local ordinance giving them that authority, passed
out two examples of food codes adopted by other cities. The Board wondered if a local
code would be a duplication of services since the State is also doing food service inspections.
Mr. Murphy stated that one state inspection is insufficient to protect the public from unsafe
conditions in food establishments in the City and County and was the reason local inspection
was sought and given to the Department by the City. Further discussion produced the request
to have the Kansas Department of Agriculture send someone to explain the state inspection
program to the Board.
Lastly, the Board considered accepting Medicaid patients in the Primary Clinic at
the Health Department and directed the administration to seek the possibility of including Medicaid patients.
Actually Observed Report of February Health Board Meeting.
Charles Murphy, Department Administrator, reported that next year’s funding appears to be at risk as the State Budget may potentially remove all Family Planning funds, the remaining County Inspector for sanitary code enforcement funds, and 28% cuts to Emergency Preparation funds. The only remaining State funds, called Formula Funds, are also being considered for reduction. This will necessitate starting the budgeting discussions later than normally and until things are more clear.
Deb Nuss reported that the Administrative Evaluation and Job Description Committee had met and are working on a draft description of a plan for hiring a replacement for Mr. Murphy. She expected it to be ready for the March meeting.
There was no report from any supervisory departments. Karen McCulloh requested that this plan be continued for the benefit of the education of the Board members.
Discussion of the proposal for a Manhattan Food Service Code was next on the agenda. The planned meeting with the Department of Agriculture concerning their food service inspection program did not materialize. It was decided to request their
appearance again. There was some suggestion that there was some anxiety involved in the decision not to appear so Dr. Hesse suggested that some specific questions be developed to help them understand why the Board wanted to hear them. Discussion continued with some disagreement between Mr. Murphy and Lauren Palmer, Assistant City Manager and member of the Board, as to the need for a local ordinance. Deb Nuss, who represents the County on the Board, noted that the whole issue began when the Board and the City felt that food service inspections in Manhattan and Riley County should be held to a higher standard. This issue had been complicated by the grease trap issue which has now been resolved. The Board decided that they still needed to hear from the Department of Agriculture before determining any action.
The Board then went into executive session which lasted until 2:00 PM so the Board decided to table the rest of the agenda until March due to the hour.
Sue Cohen, Observer
February 23, 2011
Observer Report
Condensed report of the January meeting gleaned from the minutes.
I was unable to attend the January Board meeting because of the weather.
However, I’d like to include some information from the minutes of that meeting in
this report. Dr. James D. Gardner spoke about the continuing need for prevention
of smoking in young people. The Board approved continuing this effort despite the loss
of the tobacco grant money.
Two new members have been appointed to the Board. Barbara Sollner will
take the nursing position and Dr. Rick Fulton will represent the dentists. The officers
for this year will be the same as last year: Brady Burton as President, Dr. Paul Hesse as
Vice President, and Doug Finney as Treasurer.
Charles Murphy, Administrator reported that a case of cholera had been confirmed
in a person recently returned from Haiti and that head lice had been reported in the schools
and was believed to be under control. Mr. Murphy also reported that the city has decided to
keep the grease trap management program with the public works department. (See previous
reports for background).
Mr. Murphy, concerned that the Health Department would be unable to enforce the
their food service code without a local ordinance giving them that authority, passed
out two examples of food codes adopted by other cities. The Board wondered if a local
code would be a duplication of services since the State is also doing food service inspections.
Mr. Murphy stated that one state inspection is insufficient to protect the public from unsafe
conditions in food establishments in the City and County and was the reason local inspection
was sought and given to the Department by the City. Further discussion produced the request
to have the Kansas Department of Agriculture send someone to explain the state inspection
program to the Board.
Lastly, the Board considered accepting Medicaid patients in the Primary Clinic at
the Health Department and directed the administration to seek the possibility of including Medicaid patients.
Actually Observed Report of February Health Board Meeting.
Charles Murphy, Department Administrator, reported that next year’s funding appears to be at risk as the State Budget may potentially remove all Family Planning funds, the remaining County Inspector for sanitary code enforcement funds, and 28% cuts to Emergency Preparation funds. The only remaining State funds, called Formula Funds, are also being considered for reduction. This will necessitate starting the budgeting discussions later than normally and until things are more clear.
Deb Nuss reported that the Administrative Evaluation and Job Description Committee had met and are working on a draft description of a plan for hiring a replacement for Mr. Murphy. She expected it to be ready for the March meeting.
There was no report from any supervisory departments. Karen McCulloh requested that this plan be continued for the benefit of the education of the Board members.
Discussion of the proposal for a Manhattan Food Service Code was next on the agenda. The planned meeting with the Department of Agriculture concerning their food service inspection program did not materialize. It was decided to request their
appearance again. There was some suggestion that there was some anxiety involved in the decision not to appear so Dr. Hesse suggested that some specific questions be developed to help them understand why the Board wanted to hear them. Discussion continued with some disagreement between Mr. Murphy and Lauren Palmer, Assistant City Manager and member of the Board, as to the need for a local ordinance. Deb Nuss, who represents the County on the Board, noted that the whole issue began when the Board and the City felt that food service inspections in Manhattan and Riley County should be held to a higher standard. This issue had been complicated by the grease trap issue which has now been resolved. The Board decided that they still needed to hear from the Department of Agriculture before determining any action.
The Board then went into executive session which lasted until 2:00 PM so the Board decided to table the rest of the agenda until March due to the hour.
Sue Cohen, Observer
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