COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JANUARY 4, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present was Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………219,028.64

Road & Bridge…………………….………….106,853.47

Airport…………………………………………..5,797.54

Building………………………………………………5.38

Employees Benefit……………………………179,449.00

Noxious Weed…………………………………….8,836.88

Insurance Agency…………………………….129,591.00

Alcoholic Treatment……………………………….237.50

Diversion………………………………………..1,860.66

Community Health……………….……………….29,137.13

Fire Bequest…………………………………….3,680.12

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H………………………….64.50

 

Rodney Kelling came in to check on the decision of the 2016 encumbrance letter for EMS, Fire and Civil Defense.

 

Commissioners agreed to wait till the other department heads turned their encumbrance letters in and decide at that time.

 

Lori Hensley with Larc Dvs (Liberal Area Rape Crisis and Domestic Violence Service) and Jandi Head with Southwest Kansas Sexual Assault which is part of the Southwest Medical Center came in to ask for help with funding of the services.  Lori explained that her services have partnered with the hospital to reach out to the surrounding communities.  The program is partially funded by the State and Federal.  Paula Rowden has allowed this agency to use a part of the Community Health building to see clients.  Jandi explained what the Southwest Kansas Sexual Assault program does for the communities.  Lori asked if the County would be able to support the program by funding $5,000.00 a year.  The Commissioners said they would discuss this and get back to them.

 

Dave moved to appoint the Hugoton Hermes as the official newspaper for Stevens County.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Dave moved to have Citizens State Bank as the bank depository for Stevens County.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Dave moved to have First National Bank as secondary depository for Stevens County.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pat moved to continue the meeting days and time on the 1^st and 3^rd Mondays at 8:30am unless Monday is a county holiday then the meeting will be on Tuesday.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Dave moved to appoint Pat Hall as Chairman. Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Joe moved to appoint Dave as Vice Chairman.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tony Martin came in to discuss the Highway 51 Project.  Tony says work will start again in 2016.

 

Tony says the new hotel is supposed to open today.  The culvert at the entrance was discussed and needs to be changed.

 

Dave asked Tony what the required width for county roads is supposed to be.  Tony says roads should be from 21’ to 24’ in width.  Dave asked Tony if he would check the roads.

 

Tony brought in a letter to transfer $200,000.00 from the Road and Bridge fund to the Road Machinery fund.

 

Pat moved to transfer $200,000.00 from the Road and Bridge fund to the Road Machinery fund.  Dave seconded. Motion carried.

 

Tony says he’s working on getting the rock at the asphalt plant built up for the 2016 projects.

 

Josh Morris came in to discuss redistricting of the Extension Council to form a new district with Stevens and Morton counties.  Commissioners need to vote today to be able for the redistricting to be in 2016.

 

Commissioners chose to discuss the situation further.

 

Susan Schulte gave an energy audit from Energy Star on the Courthouse to Pat Hall to present to the Commissioners.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for non elected personnel for 10 minutes from 10:40am to 10:50am with only the three Commissioners present.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 10:50am.  No action taken.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JANUARY 18, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney and Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………163,424.43

Road & Bridge…………………….……………26,019.12

Fair…………………………………………….49,627.50

Airport…………………………………………17,250.00

Services for Elderly……………………………80,678.00

Building………………………………………110,141.44

Extension Council………………………………67,500.00

Noxious Weed…………………………………….1,709.53

Library…………………………………………61,258.25

Hospital Maintenance…………………………900,000.00

Alcoholic Treatment……………………………….237.50

Diversion……………………………………………23.50

Insurance Agency Damages…………………….4,909.08

Community Health……………….…………………7,548.03

Employees Benefit – Library………………….32,019.00

Employees P/R Misc W/H…………………………..64.50

 

Tony Martin and Paul Nordyke came in to discuss Main Street that extents past the Pioneer Manor.  Individuals have asked if the County could build a road that would extend out to Road N.

 

After further discussion, Paul Kitzke will be checking with the land owners about right of ways, Tony will have the County build the road and gravel it, and then Paul Nordyke agreed the City would maintain the road.

 

Tony reported to the Commissioners that a belly dump truck engine quit.  They decided it would be cheaper to overhaul the engine rather than having it rebuilt.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners that one of the grader drivers broke a gas line top off at Road M between Road 12 and Road 13.  It was fixed and everything worked out.

 

Tony presented the 2016-2018 Stevens County Fair Association Board Members to the Commissioners for approval.

 

Dave moved to approve the 2016-2018 Stevens County Fair Association Board Members.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Ted Heaton checked in to see if Commissioners had anything for him.  He says everything is going good at the Sheriff’s department.

 

Vanessa Willis came in to ask the Commissioners if they are forgiving the different entities on the oil and gas settlement.

 

Joe moved to accept the oil and gas settlement forgiveness outline for all entities included on the outline. (State is not included in the outline)

 

Stevens County

Oil and Gas Settlement Forgiveness of Debt of Local Tax Units

December 7, 2015

 

Based on requests from the other local taxing units impacted by the oil and gas settlement agreement to avoid creating financial hardship for the impacted local tax funds, the County Commissioners will forgive collection of the oil and gas settlement agreement as follows:

 

 

Payments for the oil and gas settlement for these amounts and the amounts attributable to the County’s tax levying funds will come from .the oil and gas valuation trust fund of the County. Payments for that portion attributable to the State Accounts and the USDs’ General funds will be withheld from future tax distributions to the State for those accounts/funds.

 

Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

FEBRUARY 1, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney (10:30 am), Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………305,595.16

Road & Bridge…………………….………….124,964.44

Airport…………………………………………..8,261.32

Services for Elderly……………………………-35,018.17

Building…………………………………………3,360.00

Noxious Weed…………………………………….9,731.83

Community Health……………….……………….39,407.61

 

Pam Bensel, County Clerk presented the waiver Resolution16-01 to be approved and signed.  Dave moved to adopt the GAAP Resolution 16-01.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Robert Davis came in to discuss an airport situation.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non elected personnel for 10 minutes from 9:00am to 9:10am with Robert Davis present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 9:10am.  No action taken.

 

Ted Heaton checked in.  He says everything is going good at the Sheriff’s department.

 

Tony Martin updated the Commissioners on the Highway 51 project.  The county has received all reimbursements from the State to this point.  The work is moving along.

 

Tony reported he is working on the 2015 annual report for the State.

 

Tony discussed changing back to the 4 day week -10 hour days with Friday’s off, starting at the first of May.

 

There was discussion about the road by Pioneer Manor continuing on Main Street going south.

 

Tony says Kirkham and Michael can go and shoot the road so he Road Department can make the changes.  Dave says the cement on the side of the road needs to be taken completely out.  They discussed a ditch needs to be put in so the water will not wash it out.  The Commissioners said there needs to be a 60’ culvert at the end of the road.  They suggested the City of Hugoton paying for the culvert.  Tony says he could shoot the road to save money.

 

Tony and the Commissioners talked about what needs to be done to finish the frontage road east of town.

 

Phillip Willis came in to have Commissioners sign the Annual Weed report.

 

Eunice Schroeder came in to give the 2015 Stevens County Library Statistics.  She also explained what changes had been made due to the budget cuts.

 

Eunice asked to have the Resolution in 1999 rescinded so the Library Board could ask for more than 1.5 mills.

 

Eunice said they receive a state aid grant of $4,000.00 for children’s books, which helps tremendously.

 

Chris Lund with City on a Hill which joined in with SKADAF and on February 28 will take over SKADAF.  He came in to ask for help in funding the project.

 

Commissioners told him to come back in July at budget time.

 

Paul Kitzke is still working on the vision insurance for the County. (Superior or Surency)

 

The Commissioners discussed the haystacks at the outer edges of Moscow City.

 

The Commissioners discussed the 2015 encumbrance letters.

 

Clerk of District Court asked for $18,857.44 was allowed $18,858.00

EMS asked for $40,000.00 was allowed $30,000.00 move to the county equipment fund

Fire asked for $40,000.00 was allowed $30,000.00 move to the county equipment fund

Civil Defense asked for $10,000.00 was allowed -0-

County Clerk asked for $10,000.00 was allowed $5,000.00 move to county equipment fund

GIS asked for $8,000.00 was allowed $4,000.00 move to the county equipment fund

Appraiser asked for $3,000.00 was allowed $2,000.00

Wellness Center asked for $9,980.22 was allowed $5,000.00

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

FEBRUARY 16, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Pat moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………39,666.69

Road & Bridge…………………….………….49,717.71

Building……………………………………..369,509.00

Highway Improvement…………………………1,741.60

Diversion……………………………………….1,015.27

Community Health……………….……………..15,108.79

Reg of Deeds Tech…………………………….2,288.49

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….…43.00

 

Tony Martin came in and discussed with the Commissioners about Main Street extending past the Pioneer Manor south.  City of Hugoton says they can’t use City monies to care for roads outside the city limits.  Commissioners decided to forget fixing the road for travel.

 

Dave moved to block off the road to any traffic.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Pat opposed.

 

Tony and Commissioners discussed the barricade in front of the new hotel.  Dave asked when the barricade will be removed and Tony says after the striping is finished on the highway.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners of the projects the Road Department will be working on this summer.

 

Ted Heaton came in to discuss the Sheriff Department.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for non elected personnel for 5 minutes from 9:12am to 9:17am with Ted Heaton present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 9:17am.  No action taken.

 

Commissioners and Paul discussed the County’s vision insurance.  Paul will send a letter to BC-BS to check if the County could stay with Superior until the end of the year or till July 1, 2016.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

MARCH 7, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….…………………222,097.92

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………….139,955.55

Airport…………………………………………………..5,623.12

Building………………………………………………131,458.97

Employees Benefit…………………………………………47,401.00

Noxious Weed…………………………………………..8,545.44

Road Machinery………………………………………165,242.00

Insurance Agency…………………………………….141,645.95

Alcoholic Treatment………………………………………..237.50

Community Health……………….………………………….29,142.41

Fire Bequest…………………………………………….2,858.97

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….…………..24.99

 

Tron Stegman came in to observe the meeting.

 

Richard Vertrees came in to present the final bill for the Courthouse/Memorial Hall roof project. They discussed different situations with the roof.  Richard told the Commissioners that there is an additional charge on the billing because of an unseen probably with the roof over the table room in the Memorial Hall.

 

Joe moved to accept the additional charge to the Courthouse/Memorial Hall roof bid in the amount of $2,250.00.

 

Joe moved to appoint Martha Thompson to the Silver Haired Legislature.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Dave moved to approve the Kansas Cereal Malt Beverage License for High Plains Music Fest LLC/Jan Leonard.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe opposed.

 

Rodney Kelling bought some fire equipment items from Abengoa to replace some of the Fire Department’s old and new equipment.

 

Rodney talked about looking at a demo ambulance and the Company will bring it by for the Commissioners to look at on March 21, 2016.

 

Tony Martin came in and discussed the random drug testing on the County employees.  He asked Rodney if there could be an early time or later time in the day so his employees won’t miss so much work.  He says when the new lady from the Company comes he will talk to her.

 

Tony reported that asphalt prices have been set for 2016 and are lower than last year.

 

Tony talked about the airport runway needing some work on it.

 

Ted Heaton came in to discuss dispatching expenses for the City of Hugoton to pay.  Ted asks for the County to pay ½ and the City to pay ½ of the monthly charges.

 

Dave moved to charge the City of Hugoton 50% of dispatch billing starting January 1, 2017.

 

Rick Hanson, engineering firm for the NPU group, Kirk Heger and Jim Betts came in to discuss a gas line they need to install by June 1, 2016.  Rick explained what the plans are and showed the Commissioners a map of the locations.

 

Joe moved to allow SWKI-Stevens HSW, Inc county right of way access as indicated on the attached map.  Any section crossings on undeveloped roads will be exempt from a required bore.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  (Map below)

 

 

Jack Rowden came in to present the equipment lease for the Hospital hear/air unit project and get it signed by the Commissioners.

 

The Commissioners asked Jack if the Golf Course Board was still planning on extending the golf course nine more holes. The County is concerned about the money sitting idle.  Jack said he would ask Don Trentham or Alvin Riley.

 

Paula Rowden presented a service agreement with Knipp Equipment Inc for the heat/air system at the Community Health Building to be signed by the Commissioners.

 

Commissioners asked Paula how the transportation program was working out.  She reported that the County is not making money on this program.

 

Paula informed the Commissioners that she is writing for more grant monies to help with different services provided.

 

Pat moved to accept the service agreement with Knipp Equipment Inc for the heat/air system at the Community Health building.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Greg Wellbrock and Tom Fuhrmann came in to inform the Commissioners on the changes in the 2016 Ag land values.

 

Tom explained that they will be doing 2 abatements on 2 wells with multiple royalty owners.  There will not be any difference in tax dollars just royalty owner names.

 

Neal Gillespie came in to inquire about the lots in the Stevens County Industrial Park area for a business.  Commissioners and Neal discussed Lot 7 and what the cost is per acre.  Neal says he will let the business owner know the cost and options discussed.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

MARCH 21, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….…………………18,984.09

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………….81,815.31

Building…………………………………………….521,831.00

Noxious Weed……………………………………………52.60

Highway Improvement……………………………..372,288.91

Community Health……………….……………………….10,371.30

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….…………16.66

 

Tron Stegman came in to observe the meeting.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to talk about the Moscow firetruck’s rear end is out. He took it to Bultman, Inc and found out that replacement parts are going to be hard to find.  He did locate a truck in Sublette at the salvage yard to check for parts.

 

Rodney talked about the new ambulance proposal.  The cost would be $180,000.00 without the cot system and $197,916.00 with the cot system.

 

Tony Martin says he got the new truck.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners that the cracks on the Airport runway and Road J have been completed.  The Road Department has started on Road D, starting at the Seward County line.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non elected personnel for 5 minutes from 9:30am to 9:35am with Ted Heaton present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 9:35am.  No action taken.

 

Jim Rice, Seward County Commissioner came in to discuss the Kansas Natural Resource Coalition.  He was encouraging the Commissioners to continue paying into the organization.  He feels the County’s need to look out for the natural resources and economic development.

 

Jim informed the Commissioners of a land and water summit meeting in Dodge City.

 

Commissioners discussed putting an ad in the paper to ask for interested individuals to inquire about being on the Hospital Board.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

APRIL 4, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….……………….236,718.70

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………….88,031.23

Airport…………………………………………………3,977.72

Building……………………………………………………48.93

Noxious Weed…………………………………………7,190.03

Noxious Weed Equipment……………………………….276.01

Highway Improvement……………………………….53,752.15

Alcoholic Treatment……………………………………..237.50

Community Health……………….………………………..30,141.71

Fire Bequest………………………………………………658.48

911 E Wireless……………………………………………844.36

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….………1,193.66

 

Rodney Kelling came in with a proposal from Osage Ambulances from Linn, Missouri for a 2016 Osage model 2168 Type III modular demo ambulance with a 2016 ford E450, XL series, 158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel cab chassis with a trade in.  Cost is:

 

Ambulance delivered                                  $175,400.00

Trade in – 1995 Type I Chevrolet                   (3,000.00)

Total                                                            $172,400.00

 

Pat moved to accept the proposal from Osage Ambulance for a 2016 Osage model 2168 Type III modular demo ambulance with a 2016 ford E450, XL series, 158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel cab chassis with a trade in of a 1995 Type I Chevrolet at a cost of $172,400.00.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Rodney asked about replacing the Moscow fire truck.  The Commissioners said to hold off at this time.

 

Rodney said the Fire Department received a grant from Parsons Trust to help pay for update of the SCBAs.

 

Tony Martin informed the Commissioners the County had received the federal/state money from Fema.

 

Tony said the asphalt plant is up and running and ready to start working on the road projects for this summer.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for land acquisition for 10 minutes from 9:56am to 10:06am with Mark Williams present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 10:06am.  No action taken.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

APRIL 18, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………………..44,411.70

Road & Bridge…………………….……………………45,139.36

Airport……………………………………………….16,154.92

Building………………………………………………….157.00

Employees Benefit…………………………………….5,422.10

Noxious Weed…………………………………………2,354.44

Library……………………………………………… 61,258.25

Noxious Weed Equipment……………………………1,906.88

Community Health……………….…………………………6,981.71

911 E Wireless……………………………………….21,125.05

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….…………16.66

 

Tron Stegman came in to observe the meeting.

 

Johnny Denton came in to interview for the Hospital Board.  He expressed his thoughts on why he would be interested to be on the board.  Then, the Commissioners asked him some questions.

 

Dave moved to appoint Johnny Denton to replace Joyce Baughman on the Hospital Board as of April 18, 2016.  Term ends January 1, 2018.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tron Stegman asked to use the County right of way for SWKI-Stevens HSW, Inc to run a line on the east side of section SE 15-34-37 along Road 14.

 

Joe moved to allow County right of way access to the non-profit utility SWKI-Stevens HSW, Inc located on the east side of section SE 15-34-37 along Road 14.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  (Map below)

 

 

Rodney Kelling came in and reported the ambulance has been ordered and we will receive it in three months.

 

Rodney discussed safety warnings through the phone system for the County as a tool for individuals to know the weather alerts.  The cost for the system would be $6,500.00 a year.  The Commissioners told Rodney to talk with Ted Heaton about the safety warnings program and find out if it could go through the dispatch system.

 

Vanessa Willis came in to inform them that the lease for the Hospital roofing project from Citizens State Bank is incorrect.  The legal is wrong and the cost of the project was incorrect.

Paul will take care of the matter.

 

Robert Rich came in to present the 2017 Wellness Center budget in the amount $125,144.44.

 

Tony Martin and Koy Watkins came in for Road and Bridge Department.  Tony talked about the different thickness of the roads.  He brought in a sample to show.

 

Tony brought in the federal aid fund exchange master agreement to be signed.

 

Tony reported they will start the 10 hour days on May 2, 2016.

 

Tony suggested making Russell Lake bigger to try and contain the city runoff water better.

 

Mark Williams asked about changing the covenants for the Stevens County Industrial Park I area.  Mark bought Lot 7 Block 1 and explained what he has in mind for his business.  Then, he asked if the County would provide 2 culverts for his business on the south and west sides when needed.

 

Commissioners agreed to put in the 2 culverts on the south and west sides.

 

Paul Kitzke will address the covenants, for a purchase in the Stevens County Industrial Park 1 area, when the land is sold.

 

Ted Heaton came in and asked for a resolution to vacate the lots in Feterita.  Paul will work on getting the resolution for next meeting.

 

Ted informed the Commissioners that he wants to replace a pickup with 2 trade ins.

 

Bob Wetmore with Great Plains Development explains to the Commissioners the different loans available to the entities.  He asked for $1,450.25 to pay for 2017 county’s membership dues.

 

Sean Miller with Knipp Equipment Inc came in to present an Energy Star plaque to the Commissioners certifying the courthouse heat and air system has met all codes.

 

Sevalan Brollier, Jim Bell, Debbie and Roy Stoddard came in to present the 2017 Moscow Senior Citizens budget in the amount of $29,838.71.

 

Sevalan explained the reasons the Senior Citizens need this amount to keep the doors opened.

 

The Commissioners discussed the lots at the Pioneer Manor.  They asked Paul about changing the covenants.

 

Alfredo Don Juan and Jesus Zubia came in to discuss the horse track.  Alfredo asked if he could purchase a beer license to sell beer at the horse races.

 

Paul and Alfredo are getting together to figure out what paper work needs to be done for the horse track.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

MAY 2, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………………..190,235.42

Road & Bridge…………………….……………………127,835.93

Airport………………………………………………….3,112.52

Building……………………………………………………197.22

Noxious Weed…………………………………………25,525.69

Highway Improvement………………………………..68,665.79

Alcoholic Treatment………………………………………237.50

Community Health……………….…………………………27,501.46

Fire Bequest……………………………………………..2,446.51

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….………….16.66

 

Don Beesley came in to observe the meeting.

 

Dave moved to approve Resolution 16-02 stating to abandon or vacate the alleys located in Feterita, Kansas and/or Meadows, Kansas. Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Sherri Martin came in to present the 2017 Soil Conservation budget in the amount of $32,020.00.

 

Rodney Kelling came in talk to Paul Kitzke about getting an ad ready for the paper to sell one of the older fire trucks.

 

Rodney talked about starting another EMT class to try and get some more EMT’s on staff.

 

Rodney also mentioned that the roof on the EMS building and the Church has started leaking.

 

Commissioners discussed getting Hospital board members.

 

Commissioners discussed how to handle the sale of the lots at the Pioneer Manor.

 

Dorothy Hagman and some other concerned citizens (Kay Thrall, Kathy Willis, Mike Willis, Marion Wolf, Janet Sutton and Jessie Thompson) came in to discuss the non-continuing of the Public Transportation bus.  Paula Rowden presented the reason for not continuing the grant program.  There is a tremendous amount of paper work involved and the expenses are more than the revenues coming in.  Paula feels if the rates are raised to support the program then people will not be able to afford to utilize it.

 

Don Beesley suggested that one of them ask for funding from Pheasant Heavens.

 

Tony Martin presented the 2017 Road and Bridge budget in the amount of $2,415,385.00.

 

Tony asked about replacing an employee that quit and the Commissioners suggested waiting until after the budget hearing.

 

Tony says the Road Department is starting the 10 hour work day.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners that one of the Peterbilt trucks is down and has been taken to Garden City for repairs.

 

Tony talked about using a road sign from the Southwest District Emergency Preparedness grant for when they do their road work.  He also informed the Commissioners about the different projects they will be working on.

 

Tony says the culvert on cemetery road at the pond is leaking underneath and he’s going to put in a bigger culvert after they get through with their road projects.

 

Tony Martin presented the 2017 Fair budget in the amount of $89,500.00.

 

Eunice Schroeder, Stacey Strickland, Rhonda Ray and Bob Eyestone came in to present the 2017 Library budget in the amount of $334,476.00 and the 2017 Library Employee Benefit budget in the amount of $68,786.14.

 

Ted Heaton brought in two bids for a 2016 Pickup.  Jim Ghumm was present.

 

Ghumm’s Auto Center                 2016 Ford F150 Crew Cab 4×4 V-8    $46,500.00

Less Trade in (2) 2013 Chevy Ext       -41,600.00

Total                                                     $ 4,850.00

 

Riley Chevrolet Buick, Inc         2016 Chevrolet Silverado 4×4 Crew    $46,440.00

Cab 1LT

Less trade in (2) 2013 Chevy Ext       -36,690.00

Vin #4769 & Vin #8865                    9,750.00

 

Dave moved to approve bid from Ghumm’s Auto Center for a 2016 Ford F150 Crew Cab 4×4 V-8

with a trade in of (2) 2013 Chevy Ext Cab pickups and a total bid of $4,850.00.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe opposed.

 

Chris Lund with City on a Hill took over for SKADAF.  City on a Hill will be taking over the monthly allowance of $237.50.

 

Susan Schulte presented the 2017 GIS budget in the amount of $53,512.47.

 

Paul was asked to send a letter to Wayne Cooper in reference of his oil and gas taxes.

 

Mark Hinde with Southwest Developmental Services, Inc came in to present the 2017 Southwest Developmental Services, Inc budget in the amount of $38,536.00.

 

Jill Reagle with Russell Child Development Center came in to present the 2017 RCDC budget in the amount of $25,500.00.

 

Alfredo Don Juan and Jesus Zubia came in to continue talking about the horse race track.

 

Vernon Anderson explained to the Commissioners and Alfredo what the legal procedure is to get the land ready for the horse track.  Paul suggests that Alfredo get a lawyer to make sure everything is in legal order with the regulations for Stevens County.

 

Commissioners discussed changing the mileage rate from State to IRS rates which is from $.57 to $.54 a mile.  The Commissioners also decided to change the meal reimbursement.  They chose to have the employees turn in all meal tickets to be reimbursed and not to exceed the IRS lowest meal reimbursement tier (breakfast-$11.00, lunch-$12.00, dinner-$23.00).

 

Pat moved to have the employees turn in all meal tickets to be reimbursed and not to exceed the IRS lowest meal reimbursement tier (breakfast-$11.00, lunch-$12.00, dinner-$23.00).  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pam Bensel presented the 2017 County Clerk budget in the amount of $110,000.00 and the 2017 Election   in the amount of $11,400.00.

 

Joe moved to accept the membership agreement for Great Plains Development Inc for 2016 in the amount of $1,450.25.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

MAY 16, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with Pat Hall and Joe Thompson present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General…………………………….….………………..25,396.37

Road & Bridge…………………….……………………30,413.58

Building………………………………………………….267.50

Noxious Weed…………………………………………..838.18

Diversion………………………………………………..323.19

Community Health……………….………………………….8,071.80

Fire Bequest………………………………………….12,692.60

911 E Wireless…………………………………………1,033.15

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………….…………16.66

 

Tron Stegman and Don Beesley came in to observe the meeting.

 

Vanessa Willis came in to presented the 2017 Treasurer budget in the amount of $175,272.00.

 

Vernon Anderson came in to present the 2017 Planning and Zoning budget in the amount of $22,606.00.

 

Paula Rowden with Community Health came in to present the 2017 Community Health budget in the amount of $493,109.00 or $639,849.00 with employee benefits.

 

Commissioners and Paula discussed the Public Transportation program.  Paula explained that she took out the amount for public transportation in the budget.  So are you saying I need to cut more out of the budget?  Paula explained that nothing we do is outside regular public services. Pat explained that the City of Hugoton and Parsons Trust has agreed to help fund the Public Transportation and volunteers have offered to drive but we can’t do that with county vehicles.  Part time drivers are a possibility but it may be hard to keep them under the average 30 hours a week (doctor appointments can’t be timed out, etc).  No decision was made at this time.

 

Ted Heaton presented computer spec for new jail software work stations from Simplex Ginnell.  Joe moved to purchase the new jail software work stations from Simplex Ginnell.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tony Martin came in and started talking about the grader accident with the underground lines in the ditches.  Joe suggested contacting the owners to lower the lines.  Tony says if they can’t lower the lines then place concrete over them.  Paul can send a request to lower if there are some shallow ones.

 

Kathy Willis came in to ask about the Public Transportation bus.  Lynette Salazar came in to tell the Commissioners she wanted to volunteer to drive the bus.

 

Josh Morris and Nancy Honig came in to present the 2017 Extension Council budget in the amount of $145,000.00.  Walt Beesley, Jr, Ashley Fiss, Brenda Frederick, Nancy Johnson and Brad Niehues came in to help explain the reasoning for the budget amount.

 

Josh Morris and Nancy Honig also presented the 2017 4H budget in the amount of $27,500.00.

 

Karen Reynolds presented the 2017 Hugoton Senior Citizens budget in the amount of $201,600.00.

 

Phillip presented the 2017 Noxious Weed budget in the amount of $181,675.00, the 2017 Solid Waste budget in the amount of $187,000.00 and the 2017 Rodent Control budget in the amount of $4,000.00.

 

Rodney Kelling presented the 2017 EMS budget in the amount of $210,350.00, the 2017 Fire budget in the amount of $177,050.00 and 2017 Civil Defense in the amount of $12,500.00.  Equipment transfer to County Equipment fund for 2017 totals $100,000.00.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 11:12am to 11:22am with Paul Kitzke and Rodney Kelling present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 11:22am.  No action taken.

 

Pam Bensel presented the 2017 District Court budget in the amount of $65,000.00.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JUNE 6, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Pat moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………184,888.81

Road & Bridge…………………….……………………..94,226.23

Building………………………………………………….889.99

Airport………………………………………………….3,112.52

Noxious Weed…………………………………………17,156.12

Noxious Weed Equipment……………………………..1,900.00

Alcoholic Treatment……………………………………..237.50

Diversion………………………………………………….364.00

Community Health……………….…………………………30,836.29

911 E Wireless…………………………………………3,218.89

Employees P/R Misc W/H…………………………………24.99

 

Commissioners discussed talking to the Golf Course Board Chairman about getting the money back that was not used for expansion.

 

Commissioners discussed putting a question on the ballot to raise the mill levy for the Senior Citizens and Library and for sales tax purposes.

 

Vicki Hubin with Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center came in to ask for a 2017 donation.  She explained how the program works and what the benefits are for the County.

 

Tony Martin discussed the different projects the Road Department is doing this summer.

 

Tony said someone asked if the County would put a stop or yield sign up at intersection of Road N and Road 8 to stop north and south traffic.  Paul will need to do a resolution.  Commissioners will discuss at the next meeting.

 

Ted Heaton came in to discuss the resolution to vacate the streets and alleys at Feterita.  Paul is correcting the resolution to list the names of the streets and alleys.

 

Paul checked with State and County to see what the process is to change the name of Feterita to Heaton Meadows.  No motion made.

 

Pam Bensel presented the 2017 Register of Deeds budget in the amount of $94,648.00.

 

Linda Stalcup, Dave Piper, Kirk Heger and Benny Cabrera came in to present the 2017 Stevens County Hospital and Pioneer Manor budget in the amount of $2,000,000.00.

 

The Commissioners and Hospital Board discussed different avenues that the Hospital might be able to operate.

 

Marshall Lewis and Carla Brownlee with Southwest Guidance Center presented the 2017 budget in the amount of $49,676.00.

 

Neal Gillespie, Alisha Owens, Curtis Crawford and Judy Parsons came in to present the 2017 Economic Development budget in the amount of $83,688.32.

 

Neal informed the Commissioners there will be a candidate forum on July 26, 2016 during the Stevens County Fair.

 

Neal reports that a business is looking at a lot in the Stevens County Industrial Park area east of the grocery store.

 

Curtis Crawford presented his company Alert Alarm to do business with the County for replenishing the fire extinguishers in all County buildings.

 

Commissioners ask each department to use Alert Alarm to replenish the fire extinguishers in the buildings.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 15 minutes from 11:15am to 11:30am.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 11:30am.  No action taken.

 

Robert Davis and Josh Jorde came in to present the 2017 Airport budget in the amount of $123,625.00.

 

Robert says KDOT has granted the airport $200,000.00 for concrete panels for the main runway.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JUNE 20, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Pat moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………52,880.03

Road & Bridge…………………….………………….125,483.76

Building………………………………………………10,971.23

Noxious Weed……………………………………………263.82

Insurance  Agency Damages………………………….3,880.26

Community Health……………….………………………….8,301.11

County Equipment …………………………………172,400.00

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H………………………………16.66

 

Don Beesley and Steve Davis came in to observe the meeting.

 

Pat moved to approve Resolution 16-03 regarding the establishment of annual tax levy not to exceed one mill for county building maintenance, acquisition and construction.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Commissioners received a letter from Eunice Schroeder asking to appoint Carol Swinney to the Library Board to replace Megan Meile as of July 1, 2016.

 

Joe moved to approve Resolution 16-04 for stop sign installation to remove the stop signs located at Road N and Road 7 leaving this intersection uncontrolled.  Then installing stop signs at intersection Road N and Road 8, with installation of said stop signs to alter the flow of northbound and southbound traffic.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Josh Morris came in to ask about getting bids for an air conditioner at the 4H Building on the north end of building.  Commissioners said to get bids and they will call a special meeting to open them.

 

Don Snyder came in to asked about getting a road and culvert fixed.  Commissioners said they will talk to Tony Martin.

 

Ted Heaton checked in to see if the Commissioners had any questions for him.

 

Joe asked how complaints are handled in Moscow.  He says they write tickets that are violations against the City ordinances.

 

Commissioners asked Vernon Anderson to come in and discussed the cleanup of two trailers at the edge of town of Moscow.

 

Tony Martin came in to discuss the projects the Road Department is working on and has finished.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners about a call he received about a sprinkler watering a road.  Paul was asked to write a letter to the owner of the land.

 

Tony said someone asked him to blade their driveway.  Commissioners said if it is not a section line or through road then they need to contact a private business that does this type of work.

 

Commissioners asked Tony about Don Snyder’s request and Tony says there are other roads they need to fix also.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to inform the Commissioners that the new ambulance will be here in a week.  He invited the Commissioners to come by and see it.

 

Greg Wellbrock presented the 2017 Appraiser budget in the amount of $264,066.00.

 

Greg and the Commissioners talked about the decrease in oil and gas valuation. Talked about how hard it is going to be for the people in the community to pay their taxes.

 

Commissioners are talking about a 1% sales tax question to put on the ballot.  Paul will check.

 

Eunice Schroeder, Emily Sitz, Director of Southwest Kansas Library Board, Stacey Strickland, Bob Eyestone and Carol Swinney came in to discuss the mill levy for the Library.

 

Joe moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 15 minutes from 10:35am to 10:50am with Paul and Pam present.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 10:50am.  No action taken.

 

Joe informs the Commissioners that Steve Morris asked questions about the land he had been farming for the County by Stevens County Industrial Park area.  Joe suggested planting the land to grass.  No decision was made.

 

Commissioners discussed the grass at the Pioneer Manor.  Pat will check with Will Schnittker about replacing the fescue grass.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JUNE 27, 2016

 

A special meeting was called with Josh Morris and Nancy Honig 6:00pm on June 27, 2016 for opening bids for an air conditioner at the 4H Building.  Commissioner Dave Bozone, and Pat Hall were present.  Also present was Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe commented from the phone line during the meeting.

 

Josh brought bids in from Lin Goode – Trane 5 ton gas electric package unit $6,072.00

Moss Inc – pkgd unit 5T/130M 14S R410ASS Tin Arcoaire $6,895.00

Ross of Ulysses, Inc – Rheem 5 ton combination unit $5,805.00

Weber Refrigeration – Amana 5 ton 14 Seer gas electric package unit

$7,995.00

 

Dave moved to accept bid from Lin Goode, Inc in the amount of $6,072.00.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pat presented giving the Commissioners a 10% cut in pay to help out with budgets.  No decision was made.  Discussion at the next meeting.

 

Pam Bensel presented the 2017 Sheriff budget in the amount of $1,138,181.84.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 6:07pm to 6:17pm with Josh Morris and Nancy Honig present. Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Meeting reconvened at 6:17am.  No action taken.

 

Pat mentioned going to the next City Council meeting on July 11 to discuss the 1% sales tax question for the County.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JULY 5, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General……………………………………………..207,578.66

Road & Bridge…………………….………………….181,029.55

Fair…………………………………………………..47,871.52

Airport……………………………………………….19,267.44

Services for Elderly………………………………….77,393.92

Noxious Weed……………………………………….10,227.83

Library……………………………………………….58,226.47

Hospital Maint………………………………………866,377.57

Highway Improvement……………………………….12,090.00

Alcoholic Treatment…………………………………….237.50

Community Health……………….………………………..34,070.11

Employees Benefit-Library………………………….30,342.96

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H……………………………..216.90

 

Carol Burrows and Tron Stegman came in to observe the meeting.

 

Commissioners discussed the land east of the landfill.  Gary Baughman wants to rent the part that is not being occupied.

 

Pat presented a quote from Lawn Pro for $35,920.00 to change all the grass at the Pioneer Manor from fescue to buffalo.

 

Pat mentioned refinancing the Hospital heat/air conditioning system.  Joe suggested waiting till after the budget hearing on July 6, 2016.

 

Pat talked about the sales tax question for the County.  He will be going to the City of Hugoton meeting on July 11, 2016 to ask if they would sign a waiver so the County could receive the money from the tax.  He asked the other two Commissioners to join him at the meeting.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to discuss getting sealed bids at the August 1, 2016 meeting for the burnt fire truck and some old jaws of life equipment.  Commissioners agreed to allow Rodney to proceed with the bids.

 

Jack Rowden with the Citizens State Bank and Gary Gold with the First National Bank came in to present a proposal for refinancing the Pioneer Manor.

 

Pat moved to accept Proposal #2 for 10 years with a savings of $543,336.08.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Jack discussed the savings of a 5 year and 10 year period on the Hospital heat/air conditioning.  Commissioners chose to wait till a later date.

 

Tony Martin informed the Commissioners that the Road Department started chip sealing and patching Road 12 and Highway 51 Road.

 

Tony explained a wreck that one of his trucks had at the intersection of Road 12 and Highway 51.

 

Tony says that he will try to fix the road south of the Pioneer Manor before school starts but not for sure if he will be able to.

 

Tony asked if Vernon Anderson is working on a plan for the junk trailer houses at the edge of Moscow.

 

Ted Heaton with the Sheriff’s office checked in to see if the Commissioners had anything for him.  Everything is going good.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 9:32am to 9:42am. Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  Commissioners came out at 9:42am and went back into executive session.

 

Joe moved to go back into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 9:42am to 9:52am. Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JULY 6, 2016

 

A special meeting was called with the auditors at 8:30am on July 6, 2016 for an audit and budget presentation.  Commissioner Dave Bozone, Joe Thompson and Pat Hall were present.  Also present was Pam Bensel, County Clerk.

 

Tron Stegman and Gary Baker came in to observe the meeting.

 

Pat Hall, Chairman, moved to open the special meeting at 8:30am.

 

Theresa Dasenbrock and Lisa Axman with Lewis, Hooper and Dick of Garden City explained the 2015 County audit and reviewed the 2017 County budget with the Commissioners.

 

The sales tax question was discussed.  Commissioners are going to ask Hugoton City if they will sign an interlocal agreement to opt out of the monies for the sales tax.

 

There was discussion on the Hospital levy limit.  Theresa says they would have to change the resolution stating a limit of 6 mills.

 

Tony Martin with Road & Bridge and Fair, Eunice Schroeder and Ruth Van Horn with Library, Ted Heaton with Sheriff, Neal Gillespie and Doug Martin with Economic Development, Josh Morris, Nancy Honig, Ashley Fiss and Tia Bell with Extension Council, Linda Stalcup and Dave Piper with Hospital, Paula Rowden with Community Health, and Robert Davis with Airport came in to discuss the 2017 department budgets.

 

Neal Gillespie, Curtis Crawford and Doug Martin came in on behalf of the Economic Development budget.  The Commissioners informed Neal that the Economic Development budget was going to be cut due to lack of tax monies.

 

Eunice Schroeder came in and ask the Commissioners to adopt the resolution to raise the Library mill levy limit from 1.5 to 2.5 mills.

Commissioners discussed changing the County Policy from 20years to 19 ½ years for health insurance purposes.  No action taken.

 

Linda Stalcup and Dave Piper came in to listen to the discussion of the 2017 Hospital/Pioneer Manor budget.

 

Robert Davis with the Airport came in to listen to discussion on the 2017 Airport budget.

 

Curtis Crawford with the City of Moscow came in to inform the Commissioners they are working with Great Plains Development out of Dodge City to get a grant for the Moscow City water well.

 

Robert Rich came in on the 2017 Wellness Center budget.  Commissioners told him they were needing to cut budgets and they had cut Economic Development out of the 2017 budget.  They are trying to find places that are less beneficial to the County to cut.  They decided the Wellness Center budget was one of the choices.  They told Robert if he could figure out a way to make it self-sufficient that they would still consider keeping it open.

 

Josh Morris, Nancy Honig, Ashley Fiss, Tia Bell and Brenda Frederick came in on behalf of the 2017 Extension budget.

 

Tony Martin showed up for the 2017 Road Department budget.  An amount for the budget was determined.

 

Ted Heaton came for the 2017 Sheriff budget.  After much discussion an amount was determined.

 

Paula Rowden came in for the 2017 Community Health budget.  An amount was determined for this budget.

 

Susan Schulte came in for the 2017 GIS Department budget.  Commissioners are considering another way of servicing this department.  No decisions have been made at this time.

 

No decision was made for the final 2017 budgets at this time.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JULY 14, 2016

 

A special meeting was called with the auditors at 8:30am on July 14, 2016 to continue the budget presentation.  Commissioner Dave Bozone, Joe Thompson and Pat Hall were present.  Also present was Pam Bensel, County Clerk.

 

Theresa Dasenbrock and Lisa Axman with Lewis, Hooper and Dick of Garden City came to finalize the 2017 County budget with the Commissioners.

 

Tron Stegman, Don Beesley and Tom Hicks came in to observe.

 

There were several concerned citizens that came in for the Wellness Center.  The meeting was moved to the large Courtroom on the 3^rd floor of the Courthouse.

 

Pat Hall opened the meeting by explaining the tax increase and the concern the Commissioners have for the tax payers.  If they don’t work on cutting some things, then tax payers are going to have a hard time paying taxes.

 

Robert Rich presented several different avenues to keep the Wellness Center opened.  He has some donations coming in to help support the Center.  They discussed moving it to the Recreation building to down size it with no cost to have it there and putting a key card system in with an option of one person running it. This would free up the original building so it could be sold.  Everyone understands the dilemma that the Commissioners have but are concerned for the community as well.  Commissioners still doesn’t feel this is feasible for the County to keep it open.

 

Several citizens stated their opinion to why the Center needs to stay open.  There are health reasons for the elderly for rehab and many other reasons that were voiced.

 

Jim Gooch brought up the Commissioners salary amount.  He was wondering why Stevens County is so much higher than all other surrounding counties.  Joe Thompson said you need to keep the amount up so that quality candidates would run for the position.

 

The meeting was continued in the Commissioners room in the basement of the Courthouse.

 

Several Department heads came in to listen to the budget hearing.  (Ted Heaton, Paula Rowden, Rodney Kelling, Robert Rich, Phillip Willis, Vanessa Willis, Tony Martin, Susan Schulte, Amy Jo Tharp and Pam Bensel)

 

Several items were addressed such as the Hospital 6 mills, Library resolution needs to be approved and published to raise their mill levy, sales tax for a 2-year period then revaluated, Service for the Elderly needs a petition signed to bring it to an election so the levy could be raised.

 

Pat moved to decrease the Commissioners salary by 10% a year.  Dave seconded. Motion carried.

 

Discussion on the tax lid for different entities, retirement packages, depletion fund and having the budget hearing on September 27, 2016.

 

Adrian Howie came in and stated that the different entities in the County and City need to get together and work out options to help each other for the sake of the community.

 

Paul Kitzke came in to fix up the resolutions needed for the hearing.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

JULY 18, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………48,761.23

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..42,446.05

Building……………………………………………..26,464.50

Extension Council…………………………………..64,837.10

Noxious Weed…………………………………………4,709.10

Highway Improvement………………………………..9,867.17

Insurance Agency Damages………………………….1,537.75

Community Health……………….………………………..5,422.19

911 E Wireless…………………………………………842.88

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………………….216.66

 

Tron Stegman and Steve Davis came in to observe the meeting.

 

Paul presented the Charter Resolution 16-05 expressing the intent of the Board of County Commissioners of Stevens County, Kansas with respect to limiting the Stevens County Library Board’s taxing authority not to exceed 2.5 mills.

 

Pat moved to approve Charter Resolution 16-05 to raise the taxing authority for the Library from 1.5 mills to 2.5 mills.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Eunice Schroeder and Bob Eyestone came in to present a Memorandum of Understanding stating what the agreement is between Stevens County and Stevens County Library for maintaining the Library.

 

Dave moved to approve Resolution 16-06 assessing /continuing a one percent (1%) county wide retailer’s sales tax in Stevens County, Kansas for property tax relief to be put on the ballot for the General Election on November 8, 2016.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Commissioners discussed signing a resolution subject to the City of Hugoton signing an interlocal agreement.  Paul will draw up an interlocal agreement to be signed.

 

Tony Martin came in to update the Commissioners on the projects that are remaining to be finalized. Finished the chip sealing today, start on the access road east of town and start patching the other roads in the County.

 

They discussed the roads that possibly need put back to dirt roads in the future.

 

Vernon Anderson reported he is working on projects at Moscow.

 

Tron Stegman and Steve Davis explained their thoughts on the Wellness Center.

 

The discussion of the Wellness Center was tabled.

 

Ted Heaton came in to inform the Commissioners that the 911 system has been changed and the employees are being trained.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 10:06am to 10:16am with Paul Kitzke present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Commissioners came out at 10:16am and went back into executive session.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 10:19am to 10:29am with Rodney Kelling and Paul Kitzke present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Commissioners came out at 10:29am and went back into executive again.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 more minutes from 10:30am to 10:40am with Rodney Kelling and Paul Kitzke present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

Paul was asked to check into bids for the Wellness Center and lots at the Pioneer Manor, if they need to be sealed or can be open bids.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

AUGUST 1, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Pat moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………185,366.43

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..326,646.00

Airport…………………………………………………3,112.52

Building………………………………………………..6,559.97

Employees Benefit……………………………………10,380.95

Alcoholic Treatment…………………………………….237.50

Noxious Weed………………………………………..38,620.24

Diversion………………………………………………………128.21

Community Health……………….……………………….31,627.49

Reg of Deeds Tech……………………………………2,846.54

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H………………………………16.66

 

Tron Stegman and Steve Davis came in to observe the meeting.

 

Vernon Anderson checked in for Planning and Zoning.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to have bids open for the three vehicles at the Fire Station.

 

1980 Chevrolet pickup extended cab 1 ton 4×4    Floyd Knox      $750.00

Coltlyn Hale    $501.00

(1993 Chevrolet pickup extended cab 1 ton 4×4) 1GBHK39N5PE216733

 

Pat moved to accept bid from Floyd Knox for $750.00 for the 1980 Chevrolet pickup extended cab 1 ton 4×4.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

1993 Ford E800 truck             Coltlyn Hale       $264.00

Larry Clark         $105.00

(1980 Ford E800 truck) F82KVHG5880

 

Pat moved to accept bid from Coltlyn Hale for $264.00 for the 1993 Ford E800 truck.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

1990 Ford 1ton truck (burned up)            Floyd Knox       $50.00

1FDKF38G8LKB24824                          Coltlyn Hale      $46.00

 

Pat moved to accept bid from Floyd Knox for $50.00 for the 1990 Ford 1ton truck.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

(The year for the 1980 pickup and 1993 E800 truck are wrong.)

 

Ted Heaton checked in for the Sheriff’s Department.

 

Tony Martin came in to report the Road Department is ready to asphalt the access road and finish the entrance for the motel when needed.  They will be patching and sealing roads, also.

 

Commissioners asked Tony to check with Phillip Willis about spraying the Johnson grass before he mows the road sides.

 

Pat LeClerc came in to talk to the Commissioners about the Health Plan.  She explained there has been an increase in the State Employee Health Plan as of July 1, 2016 and there will be one as of January 1, 2017 and July 1, 2017.

 

Pat LeClerc said she would shop around for different prices to present for the 2018 budget.

 

The Commissioners discussed the interlocal agreement with the City of Hugoton and maybe having an informational meeting for sales tax.

 

Paul needs to provide the County Clerk’s Office with a sales tax question to put on the General Election ballot.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personal for 10 minutes from 10:22am to 10:32am with Paul Kitzke present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

The Clerk’s office needs to reimburse Tate and Kitzke’s office the money for special prosecution and child in need of care.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

BOARD OF CANVASSERS MEETING

AUGUST 11, 2016

 

The Board of Canvassers met at 8:30am to canvass the votes from the August 11 2016, Primary Election.  Present were Joe Thompson, Amy Jo Tharp and Pam Bensel, County Clerk.

 

There were 20 Provisional Ballots and all ballots were counted.  These ballots did not change the outcome of the election of the first count.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________                                                                                            Joe Thompson, Commissioners

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

AUGUST 15, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………61,693.50

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..37,833.32

Building………………………………………………..416.22

Noxious Weed…………………………………………..929.68

Community Health……………….……………………….8,745.64

911 E Wireless……………………………………….5,975.65

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H……………………………208.33

 

Tron Stegman came in to observe the meeting.

 

Joe opened the discussion on the Wellmess Center.  Joe feels the Commissioners need to decide what they want to do, keep it open or close it down and sell it.  No decision was made at this time.

 

Pat started the discussion on the County Attorney bills.  He discussed with Paul what the amounts are for County Attorney and/or Special Prosecution.

 

Robert Rich presented the Wellness Center amounts that individuals are willing to give donations to help fund to keep it opened. He shared the information from the other entities that he visited with such as the Hugoton Recreation Board and Hugoton City Council.  He presented a budget for himself and the key card system only as requested then if there is another option for a second employee the budget would be around $20,000.00 more.

 

Tron Stegman stated that it would be better to have two employees so when one has to leave town there will be someone there to tend to it.

 

Paul discussed the vision insurance.  Surency is to start as of September 1, 2016 and Superior will be over as of August 31, 2016.  The County is to pay the State of Kansas SEHP premiums for the whole year starting January 1, 2016 totaling $5,113.78.

 

Tony Martin came in to report on the Road and Bridge Department.  They are working on the Sunbelt Road, Riverbend Road and the repairing the Moscow runway.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners there is a road grader down.  It will cost around $20,000.00 to fix.

 

Jack Rowden brought papers in for the Commissioners to sign for refinancing of the Pioneer Manor.

 

The Commissioners talked to Jack about the sales tax question. Jack says the City of Hugoton will not approve the 100% agreement to the County if there is a sunset-saying the sales tax will end in five years.  The City agrees to allow the 100% sales tax question if 50% starts reverting back to them after five years.

 

Pat moved to adopt the County wide sales tax question without a sunset.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe opposed.

 

Mike Willis came in to discuss having the transportation program thru the Stevens County Hospital.  He says that Linda Stalcup agreed that the Hospital/Manor would take it over. Mike asked if the transportation bus could be donated to the Hospital from the Community Health Department instead of selling it to someone.

 

There was discussion about the newly elected official’s salary to change from $35,000.00 to $40,000.00 a year.

 

Dave moved to change the pay for newly elected official, County Clerk (Amy Jo Tharp) from $35,000.00 to $40,000.00 a year.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for trade secrets for 30 minutes from 10:03am to 10:33am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Kenneth Katz, Tron Stegman and Neal Gillespie present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pat moved to go back into executive session for trade secrets for 30 minutes from 10:35am to 11:05am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Kenneth Katz, Tron Stegman and Neal Gillespie present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

SEPTEMBER 6, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with Pat Hall and Joe Thompson present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Pat moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………205,305.90

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..158,792.83

Airport…………………………………………………3,112.52

Alcoholic Treatment…………………………………….237.50

Noxious Weed…………………………………………..7,416.13

Highway Improvement………………………………12,694.08

Diversion…………………………………………………………91.00

Community Health……………….………………………..38,461.42

911 E Wireless…………………………………………..265.26

Wekando…………………………………………………400.00

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H………………………………224.99

 

Tron Stegman came in to observe the meeting.

 

There was discussion about the County Attorney budget.

 

Pat moved to cover all overage of the County Attorney budget to be paid out of the General Fund/Courthouse budget.  Special Prosecution will be paid out of the General/Courthouse budget only if there is an itemized statement brought into the County Clerk’s office with the bill (requested by the auditors).  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Quince Burton and Butch from Black Hills Energy and Tony Martin, Road Supervisor came in to discuss replacing a 14.2-mile gas line to an 8” line with 400 PSI on the south side of Highway 51 from Hugoton east to the Seward County line. Quince is having a crossing permit drawn up with all the stipulations.  He will get with Tony to determine the correct information.

 

Tony asked if Black Hills will be responsible for the road repairs if there are any problems caused by the gas line.  Quince assured Tony and the Commissioners that Black Hills Energy would be responsible.

 

Tony Martin presented a resolution to install a stop sign at an uncontrolled intersection within Stevens County.

 

Pat moved to approve Resolution 16-07 saying for the safety of the citizens of Stevens County to install a stop sign at an uncontrolled intersection of County Road M and South Main Street within Stevens County for the flow of southbound traffic.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tony reported the grader that broke down with an estimated cost of $19,000.00 to replace the differential.

 

Tony reported that the Road Department is back on the 8-hour day 5 days a week starting September 6, 2016.

 

Commissioners agreed to give the vehicle from Community Health, 2009 Dodge DL vin# 2D8HN44E99R677490, to the Hospital for public transportation.

 

The Commissioners looked at maps of the lots in the Pioneer Addition, Stevens County Industrial Addition and Stevens County Industrial Park 1 to sell at a land auction.  It was decided to wait till all Commissioners were at the meeting to discuss the sale.

 

 

 

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk and Marie Austin, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Pat moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………51,685.10

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..15,815.40

Building……………………………………………….6,048.21

Noxious Weed……………………………………………297.84

Community Health……………….………………………14,847.55

Fire Bequest……………………………………………813.60

911 E Wireless………………………………………….651.91

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H………………………………75.58

 

Tron came in to observe the meeting.

 

Pat moved to have Group Benefits to pay ½ of the Superior Vision insurance owed to State of Kansas SEHP and the County will pay the other ½ each being $2,500.00.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Jim Rice, Seward County Commissioner, came over to discuss KNRC – Kansas Natural Resource Coalition and gave an update.

 

Tony Martin came in to update on the Road Department.  Tony advised the Commissioners they were putting the grader back together and it will cost approximately $23,000.00.  They have one more day of patchwork.

 

Tony talked about rewording the crossing permits to work for the Black Hills Energy project.  Tony says they will need to go along with the crossing to case the pipe until the crossing permits are redone.  Black Hills Energy said they changed the starting place to begin in Stevens County instead of starting at the Seward County line.

 

Tony said at Moscow the trail, which is a half mile road, from southeast of the ball diamond to the black top, (substation) needs to be bladed so the City of Moscow can get to the water well. Tony suggested getting a right of way then talk about blading it.  Joe suggested setting up the road, since it is a Municipality and not a private entity, then let the City of Moscow maintain it.

 

Quince Burton and Butch from Black Hills Energy came back in to discuss the pipe line project.  Quince and Butch explained that their Company is very protective of the piping installation.  Safety is always the first concern.  They use 12” pipe for casing and 8” pipe for concrete and usually go 4’ deep but will go 6’ if that’s what the County requires.  The project will start in the middle of October.

 

Several concerned citizens came in to talk about keeping the Wellness Center open.  They furnished materials from many citizens stating why they use the facility.  Several questions were asked from-Janet Sutton, Darla Mirabal, Janice Porter, Verna Kay McQueen, Lloyd Moon, Ruth Farmer, Gyla Conklin, Evelyn McBride and Dorothy Hagman and expressed this is a place we can go to further our rehabilitation after physical therapy is finalized and many other reasons.  The Commissioners gave their reasoning for needing to close the Center. They expressed that it is not a necessity to the Community and it doesn’t generate enough revenue to support keeping it open.  With the valuation drop, it was necessary to start looking at where budgets could be cut so taxes would be more affordable for tax payers.

 

Pat moved to close and not fund the Wellness Center for 2017.  Motion dies for the lack of a second.

 

Tom Hicks came in to talk about the outcome of the meeting.

 

Ted Heaton checked in to see if the Commissioners had anything for him.  Everything at the Sheriff’s office is going good.

 

Joe moved to approve the covenants for the lots in the Pioneer Addition, south of town, as amended and have Paul Kitzke to refile the amended covenants in the Register of Deeds office.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

SEPTEMBER 27, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met for the Stevens County 2017 Budget hearing with all members present.  Also present were Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.

 

Amy Jo Tharp, Tron Stegman, Tom Hicks, Ted Heaton, Eunice Schroeder and Carol Swinney came in to observe the Budget hearing meeting.

 

Pat declared the Stevens County 2017 Budget hearing open at 8:30am.

 

Pat asked if anyone had anything to say.

 

Tom Hicks committed that he was there to stick up for Neal Gillespie.  He feels that Economic Development is very vital to the community.

 

Joe moved to adopt the official 2017 Stevens County Budget.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pat moved to close the 2017 Budget hearing at 9:00am.

 

Joe asked to discuss the Wellness Center.  He feels it would be best to keep it going at least another 6 months under a different type of operation to see how the revenue generates.

 

Pat moved to close the 2017 Budget hearing at 9:00am.

 

The County entities received a letter from the City of Hugoton to have building sprinkler systems or boiler systems tested by a licensed and certified backflow tester.

 

Dave moved to have the cost of the test paid out of County Building.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Joe moved to adopt Resolution 16-08 approving an assessment by the Western Kansas Development Organization for its obligations under a Settlement Agreement and Amendment to Contract to Rehabilitate Railroad Line.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Pat moved to pay the remaining $2,000.00 on the KNRC billing.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Commissioners agreed to sale the lots in the Pioneer Addition on November 7, 2016 after the regular Commissioner meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

OCTOBER 3, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………199,134.77

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..109,623.87

Airport………………………………………………..47,410.12

Noxious Weed………………………………………….6,865.07

Library……………………………………………….64,030.31

Alcoholic Treatment…………………………………….237.50

Diversion………………………………………………..122.50

Insurance Agency Damages…………………………..2,701.92

Community Health……………….……………………….31,420.64

Employees Benefit-Library……………………………1,676.04

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H……………………………..142.57

 

Amy Jo Tharp, newly elected County Clerk observed the meeting.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to inform the Commissioners he had filed for a grant to get bunker gear.  The equipment will need to be paid for before cause the County won’t receive the grant until May, 2017.  Rodney told the Commissioners that the gear is NFDA Standard approved.  Commissioners approved paying for the equipment before receiving the grant and authorized to pay that amount if there is an overage in the Fire budget.

 

Ted Heaton checked in to see if Commissioners had anything for him.  Everything is going good.

 

Vernon Anderson checked in with Commissioners.  He is still working on a situation west of town.

He needed to check in with Ted Heaton

 

Commissioners discussed selling the lots in the Pioneer Addition.  They decided to sell the lots in town on November and then Dave suggested checking with Faulkner Real Estate about selling the 79.8A that are outside the city limits. Joe is going to write an ad to put in several papers in the area about the sale and check with Faulkner Real Estate.

 

Tony Martin came in with the crossing permit revisions.  Paul looked it over and made a few changes.

 

Tony discussed a situation with the Commissioners.  Someone planted trees in the right of way and Tony asked what he needed to do.  The Commissioners said Paul could send a letter to the individual asking them to remove the trees.

 

Tony says the Road Department is hauling gravel to town to start putting on roads.

 

Tony says the asphalt plant is shut down and being winterized.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

OCTOBER 17, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Joe moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………49,708.76

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..14,780.85

Noxious Weed…………………………………………7,492.55

Highway Improvement………..………………………..834.05

Diversion……………………………………………….100.00

Community Health……………….………………………13,871.61

Fire Bequest…………………………………………………..218.85

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H………………………………16.67

 

Amy Jo Tharp, newly elected County Clerk and Tron Stegman observed the meeting.

 

Commissioners were presented a resignation letter for Sevalan Brollier, Moscow Senior Citizens Board Member.  Martha Thompson’s name was presented to replace Sevalan on the Board.

 

Dave moved to appoint Martha Thompson to the Senior Citizens Board to replace Sevalan Brollier.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Vernon Anderson checked in to see if the Commissioners had anything for him. He is working on some things in Moscow.

 

Ted Heaton checked in to see if Commissioners had anything for him.  Everything is going good.

 

Paula Rowden with Community Health published to take bids for a 2014 Kia Sedona.  One bid was opened from Terry Hull in the amount of $5000.00.

 

Joe moved to reject the bid from Terry Hull in the amount of $5,000.00 for a 2014 Kia Sedona. Dave seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tony Martin reported an accident with the Stevens County 2013 pickup driven by one of Road and Bridges employees.

 

The Road Department is painting stripes on the road at this time.

 

Tony talked to Terry Campbell and Garrett Kilbourne about removing the trees.

 

A list of 2017 Holidays was presented to the Commissioners.

 

Dave moved to approve the 2017 Holidays as presented.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Curtis Crawford, President of the Economic Development Board, came in to discuss keeping the office that Neal Gillespie is using at this time as Economic Development Director.  They want to keep the office and are willing to continue paying rent to the Senior Citizens Board at this time.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

NOVEMBER 7, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………205,340.74

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..169,465.22

Airport…………………………………………………..3,112.52

Building…………………………………………………112.00

Employees Benefit……………………………………11,170.44

Noxious Weed………………………………………..10,028.34

Highway Improvement………………………………..5,446.27

Alcoholic Treatment…………………………………….237.50

Diversion………………………………………………..343.64

Community Health……………….……………………….38,497.34

Fire Bequest……………..…………………………………54.00

911 E Wireless………………………………………….391.17

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H……………………………….48.78

 

Amy Jo Tharp, newly elected County Clerk observed the meeting.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 10 minutes from 8:40am to 8:50am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney and Ed Stevenson present.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

Phillip Willis came in to discuss the landfill staying open from Monday – Saturday from 8:30am to 5:30pm with 1hour lunch.  The employee that works on Saturday will not be working on the following Monday.  They will still get the 40 hours a week by making this change.

 

Commissioners were in agreement with this change of hours for the landfill.

 

Phillip presented the 2017 Solid Waste Plan with no changes.

 

Pat moved to approve the 2017 Solid Waste Plan with no changes.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tony Martin came in to discuss the incident when the Stevens County Road and Bridge truck driver backed into a car in a County truck.  Joy McLeod called and asked the County to pay the remaining amount for the damage of the rental car.  The insurance paid all except $411.22 which the insurance company says is not owed by the County.  Paul will send a letter to Joy McLeod.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 10 minutes from 9:30am to 9:40am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney and Tony Martin present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

Tony presented the cost of materials for the access road east of town at a cost of $67,113.63.

 

Jorge Camacho came in to discuss the 15 minute break the County has for morning and afternoon.  Since Jorge works an 8 hour day (not having a set time schedule for the 8 hours except within the 24 hour day) the 15 minute break in the policy book does not apply to his work schedule.

 

Paula Rowden came in to update the Commissioners on the amount of clients her department provides for during the year.

 

Paula talked about selling the 2014 Kia Sadona.  Paul mentioned putting it on Purple Wave page.  Paula asked if there could have a starting bid price for the vehicle and Paul didn’t think that could be done.

 

Paula reported what maintenance needs there are at the Community Health building.  She had the electronic door knobs replaced, 2 boilers and 1 needs repaired, need to put in fire alarms, backup generator didn’t come on when the electricity went off (this is used for vaccine medicine) which Tony Martin fixed for her.

 

Paula informed the Commissioners that Nellie Garcia is retiring in August, 2017.

 

Paula told Commissioners that she was out of chart storage and needs to order more storage units for $13,000.00.  She asked if she could use some of her money to buy the cabinets.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 5 minutes from 10:30am to 10:35am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney and Paula Rowden present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

Ted Heaton checked in.

 

Susan Schulte came in to discuss repairs on the outside of the Courthouse and Memorial Hall.  Commissioners told her to check with different companies for bids.

 

Commissioners had Richard Clinesmith come in to auction off the lots at the Pioneer Manor.  The people present, but just watching, were Richard Claggett, Tony Martin, Ted Heaton, Josh Grubbs, and Paul Nordyke.  No one showed up to purchase any lots.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 10 minutes from 11:07am to 11:17am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney and Pam Bensel, County Clerk present.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                              ________________________________

Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

BOARD OF CANVASSERS MEETING

NOVEMBER 14, 2016

 

The Board of Canvassers met at 8:30am to canvass the votes from the November 14, 2016, General Election.  Present were Joe Thompson, Pat Hall, Lynne Webb, Amy Jo Tharp and Pam Bensel, County Clerk.

 

There were 48 Provisional Ballots and 7 ballots were not counted.  These ballots did not change the outcome of the election of the first count.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________                                                                                            Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

NOVEMBER 21, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Pat moved to approve the county vouchers.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………24,407.54

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..55,971.98

Building………………………………………………1,400.00

Noxious Weed……………………………………………..74.75

Insurance Agency Damages………………………….5,124.74

Community Health……………….………………………..9,924.74

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H…………………………….216.67

 

Amy Jo Tharp, newly elected County Clerk observed the meeting.

 

Vanessa Willis came in to talk to Paul.

 

Rodney Kelling updated the Commissioners on hay stack fire south and west of town.

 

Commissioners discussed the zoning for hay stacks and who would be responsible in case of an incident involving a fire.

 

Ted Heaton came in and discussed the open range/close range for keeping cattle inside the fence.

He was informing the Commissioners that there was a problem with one person’s cattle getting out.  Paul was instructed to write a letter to the farmer about keeping his cattle inside the fence

 

Susan Schulte came in with bids to repair the cracks in the concrete on the Courthouse and Memorial Hall.

 

Aredondo Masonary Inc                $8,500.00  (includes 100% of Courthouse and

Memorial Hall) start in 2 weeks

and finish in 3 weeks

 

McDaniels Construction                $7,466.66  (includes 85% of Courthouse and

Memorial Hall) start after the 1^st of

the year and finish in 45 days

 

Dave moved to accept the bid from Aredondo Masonary Inc in the amount of $8,500.00 due to the bid including 100% repairs to the building.  Joe seconded. Motion carried.

 

Tony Martin came in to update the Commissioners on the Road and Bridge Department.  They are graveling roads and trimming trees in the right of way.

 

Tony updated the Commissioners on Joy McLeod.  Paul sent her an email stating what she needs to do.

 

Neal Gillespie and Carol Meyer with the Department of Commerce came in to discuss the student loan program, Rural Opportunity Zones.  The legislature has extended the program for another 5 years.  Carol asked the Commissioners to join for another 5 years.  The cost is $15,000.00 a year.  Pat moved to continue with the student loan program, Rural Opportunity Zones.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Dave moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 10 minutes from 10:32am to 10:37am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney and Pam Bensel, County Clerk present.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

Commissioners discussed changing the longevity pay for employees that have been working for the county in 10 year increments.

 

Joe moved starting retroactive to January 1, 2016 to change the pay scale for full time employees to:  10 years – $250.00, 20 years – $500.00, 30 years – $750.00, 40 years – $1,000.00, 50 years – $1,250.00, 60 years – $1,500.00 to receive at the Christmas party.  The part time employees pay scale will be: 10 years – $25.00, 20 years – $50.00, 30 years – $75.00, 40 years – $100.00, 50 years – $125.00, 60 years – $150.00.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave opposed.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________                                                                                            Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

DECEMBER 5, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and RoGlenda Coulter, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………288,755.27

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..120,854.43

Airport………………………………………………….3112.52

Fair……………………………………………………….1,755.98

Services for Elderly……………………………………3,279.08

Extension Council……………………………………..2,662.90

Noxious Weed………………………………………….7,903.46

Library………………..…………………………………259.72

Hospital Maintenance…………………………………33,622.43

Alcoholic Treatment…………………………………….237.50

Diversion…………………………………………………146.43

Community Health……………….………………………..25,136.43

911 E Wireless…………………………………………..391.17

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H……………………………….76.97

 

Vanessa Willis came in to discuss delinquent taxes on Mr Emrie.  He was asking why he had to pay the interest on the past due taxes.  Vanessa stated there is a law that says it is his responsibility to contact the county with a new address for the tax statement.  Paul will send Mr Emrie a letter stating he owes the whole amount.

 

Susan Schulte came in with a bid from Southwest Glass and Door, Inc of Liberal for $800.00 to put 4 clear dorma closers on the doors entering into the Memorial Hall.

 

Joe moved to accept the bid from Southwest Glass and Door, Inc of Liberal for $800.00 to put 4 clear dorma closers on the doors entering into the Memorial Hall.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Tony Martin came in to update the Commissioners on the Road and Bridge Department.

 

Tony asked if he could replace one of the two employees that are retiring this year.  Commissioners agreed to allow Tony to replace one of the employees’ position.

 

Tony informed the Commissioners they are still working on the roads.

 

Martha Thompson came in to discuss the Silver Haired Legislative position she has filled in.  She went to Topeka to represent the senior citizens of Stevens County.  She asked a lady from Hays if she would come to Hugoton and talk to the senior citizens.

 

Joe moved, as of January 1, 2017, to have the non-elected Department heads to clock in and out on a time card.  Pat seconded.  Motion carried.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to inform the Commissioners that he applied for a $25,000.00 bunker gear grant.  The gear need to be paid for before the grant money comes in.

 

Commissioners gave Rodney permission to order the bunker gear and pay up front before the grant is received.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 5 minutes from 10:05am to 10:10am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and Tron Stegman, newly elected Commissioner, present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

Stanley McGill came in to ask if they would be willing to help pay a bill for the Museum in the amount of $1,069.31.  Commissioners agreed to pay the bill out of building fund.

 

Ted Heaton checked in with the Commissioners.

 

Neal Gillespie and Alicia Owens came in to discuss the Neighborhood Revitalization Plan.  Neal says it is time to renew the NR plan for another 5 years.  The Commissioners need to sign a resolution to renew the plan before June, 2017.  The plan states if at any time anyone has delinquent taxes, that tax payer will no longer be eligible and taken off of the plan.

 

Alicia Owens asked the Commissioners what the county will be expected of her.  They said the County will no longer be in charge of Economic Development, so the board will be the one she will need to talk to.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 30 minutes from 10:40am to 11:03am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Neal Gillespie and Tron Stegman present.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  No action taken.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________                                                                                            Pat Hall, Chairman

 

 

COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS

DECEMBER 19, 2016

 

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session with all members present.  Also present were Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Pam Bensel, County Clerk, and Marie Austin, Hugoton Hermes.  Joe moved to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  Dave seconded.  Motion carried.  Dave moved to approve the county vouchers.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.  The clerk was instructed to draw warrants on the Treasurer chargeable to the various funds of the county for the following amounts.

 

General………………………………………………31,825.75

Road & Bridge…………………….…………………..47,999.08

Building……………………………………………..11,264.31

Noxious Weed……………………………………………..72.84

Community Health……………….………………………11,444.78

911 E Wireless………………………………………26,423.43

Employee’s P/R Misc W/H……………………………..33.34

 

Amy Jo Tharp, newly elected County Clerk, and Tron Stegman, newly elected Commissioner Dist 3 observed the meeting.

 

Rodney Kelling came in to inform the Commissioners that the Fire Department has an opportunity to purchase a Conex storage container for $1,700.00.  He said he had money in the Fire Bequest fund.  The Commissioners told him to check with Tony Martin and Phillip Willis for a place to store the box.

 

Phillip Willis came in to talk about employee’s time.

 

Pat moved to go into executive session for non-elected personnel for 10 minutes from 8:55am to 9:05am with Paul Kitzke, County Attorney, Phillip Willis and Tron Stegman present.  Joe seconded.  Motion carried.

 

The Department Head is in charge of how their employee’s time is distributed.

 

Tony Martin came in with Richard Grubbs and Monte Hale.

 

The Commissioners presented retirement gifts to Richard Grubbs and Monte Hale.  Each one of the retirees received a watch from Stevens County in appreciation of their services.

 

Tony discussed with the Commissioners what the Road Department is doing at this time to finish the year.

 

Ted Heaton checked in saying everything is good at the Sheriff’s Department.

 

Commissioners asked Paul to draw up a resolution for the Rural Opportunity Zone Student Loan Repayment Program.

 

Commissioners agreed to a severance package for Neal Gillespie.

 

Pat moved starting January 1, 2017 to pay the difference of the cost for insurance on the State Employee Health Plan.  Employer now pays $656.57 a month and will pay $760.17 a month plus the employee pays $250.00 a month. The County agreed to this as a severance package because of the non-continuation of the Economic Development department.  This severance package is only until Neal Gillespie’s sixty-fifth (65^th) birthday on October 03, 2018.

 

By motion the Board adjourned.

 

Attest: Pam Bensel, County Clerk                         ________________________________                                                                                            Pat Hall, Chairman