Shawnee County

The commission meeting included discussions on the deferral of a design-build contract for pool projects to allow for further evaluation, the approval of various voucher payments, and authorization for the removal of a school zone traffic signal. Additionally, the commission approved a contract for a culvert replacement project on Southwest 107th Street and held a public hearing regarding a zoning change from light to heavy industrial for property located on Southwest Topeka Boulevard to support the storage of biosolids and agricultural lime products.

The board discussed an update on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). Key topics included the status of various completed, active, and pending projects such as infrastructure renovations, technology and platform upgrades, security enhancements, and premium pay allocations. Detailed reports were provided regarding the Department of Corrections HVAC project, courthouse renovations, and IT connectivity upgrades for the sheriff's office. Additionally, newly added projects from the budget process, including 911 center renovations and data center upgrades, were introduced for future consideration.

The meeting included a presentation celebrating National 4-H Week. The Commission approved the consent agenda, voucher payments, and several correction orders. Contracts were authorized for new budget and grant management software, annual audit services, and the EOC bathroom project. Additionally, the Commission awarded a bid for community development software for permitting, licensing, and code enforcement, and approved the purchase and outfitting of a new sign truck for the Public Works department.

The Commission addressed several agenda items, including the approval of consent agendas and voucher payments for projects such as courthouse renovations, security equipment for the health department, and database training for the Sheriff's office. A resolution was passed regarding taxable industrial revenue bonds for property improvements near Southwest 17th Street and Wanamaker Road. The Commission also approved a bid for herbicide for the Weed Department, a contract amendment for employee insurance services, and a reorganization of the Facilities Management Department, including staff position changes. Additionally, the Commission awarded a bid for digital marquee signs for health department locations, approved an agreement for the Winter Wonderland event at Lake Shawnee, authorized a trail improvement project for the Levy Trail, approved turf replacement for the Parish Family Field, and signed an initial design-build agreement for a parks and recreation project.

The Commission discussed the selection and approval of a design for a design-build pool replacement project. Key topics included reviewing three potential pool designs, addressing community survey feedback, discussing the importance of pool amenities versus a splash pad, managing project budget constraints within a four million dollar limit, and planning for future partnership opportunities to add features. The commission ultimately voted to approve proceeding with the pool design, with plans to establish a guaranteed maximum price at a future meeting.