Matt Christenson

The general business for the meeting includes the approval of the consent agenda. Key discussion topics scheduled involve Rhonda Fernandez presenting on the Utilization Plan and the 2027 renewal. Terri Butler is set to provide a software update from Fidlar Software. Additionally, Kristi Cooper is scheduled to discuss board appointments for the SouthWest Kansas Area Agency of Aging and a resolution regarding the appointment of a voting member to the SW Central region Homeland Security Council for Kiowa County.

Key discussions included public works department updates concerning merit payroll changes for two employees and budget amendments for the Landfill, along with details on a pavement project and generator updates for the R&B shop. The Santa Fe Trail office presented Fiscal Year 2027 budgets and grants for adult and juvenile services, resulting in a consensus for the Chairman to sign the associated grant and budgets. Updates were also provided by the County Extension office on current projects and services. Commissioners discussed concerns regarding water rights in Kiowa County, leading to a motion to sign a related letter. Additionally, questions regarding tax status and exemptions for Golden Gas Services Company were addressed by a representative from KCC via phone.

The meeting began with the approval of the consent agenda, which included the agenda itself. The primary discussion involved an introduction and geography presentation by Tyrell Tenpenny from the Underground Hydrocarbon Storage (UHS) program with KDHE, followed by an overall view presentation from Blaise and Alan Staab with Golden Gas Service regarding their company's proposed work for Kiowa County. The floor was then opened for questions from the Commissioners and the public.

Key discussions included year-end updates from the County Museum regarding raffles and specials. The jail temporarily closed due to staffing, leading to the housing of inmates at other facilities. The commissioners approved the installation of a mini-split in the jail booking room, funded by a transfer from the inmate trust fund to the building fund, granting an exemption from the standard three-bid procurement policy. Commissioners also discussed progress on the landfill building and the new cell, which followed a public meeting on January 28th. Additionally, the commissioners reviewed and approved a letter of opposition to Kansas HB 2322 for submission to the Kansas House Taxation Committee.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the consent agenda items, excluding previous minutes. Following this, the Board of Health meeting convened to discuss updates on client services, grant requirements, upcoming training closures, mercury testing with the EPA, public concerns regarding unpermitted digging, health fair planning, changes to the vaccine schedule, and local avian flu activity. Upon returning to the regular session, payroll changes for two employees were approved. Updates were provided regarding winter maintenance preparations, landfill building progress, potential equipment trade-ins, and road maintenance matters. Discussion occurred concerning Commercial Motor Vehicle pay, resulting in a directive for supervisors to detail office certifications for additional duties. The use of Opioid settlement funds was discussed, with consensus reached to research the possibility of purchasing AEDs. Additional payroll changes were approved, and various reports and minutes were presented for signature.