Grant County Commissioners met February 17, for their regular monthly session, covering a wide range of topics including economic development projects, employee compensation, infrastructure repairs and county budgeting matters.
Economic Development Discussions
Commissioners met with representatives from the Economic Development board. While details of the discussion were limited in the notes from the session, the topic centered on local development considerations and future planning.
In additional economic matters, discussion continued regarding the new Sugar Mommas business and renovations to equip the building with a commercial kitchen and necessary facilities. The space is intended to serve multiple startup businesses. Questions were raised about funding sources, with officials explaining that grant funding will assist with startup costs, with rent payments structured to cover associated operational expenses.
Commissioners asked for confirmation that a brewery will be moving into Bear Creek, it was noted that it is expected to provide a new gathering place within the community.
Budget and Financial Actions
Mark McGaughey made a motion to transfer one-third of the Liquor Sales Tax Fund into an ESH account, which was approved.
The Health Department requested wage increases for five employees; commissioners approved the adjustments. Additionally, Grant County Recreation will increase membership costs by $5 per county employee, a change that also received approval.
Broader discussion was held regarding cost-of-living wage increases for county employees and the potential offering of Aflac insurance benefits. No final action was reported on those items during this meeting.
Commissioners approved payment of $161,426 in presented bills.
The board also approved providing $250 to support participation in the Kansas Silver Haired Legislature, allowing for county representation at the state-level senior advocacy event.
Facilities and Maintenance
David Manzano and M&A Construction met with commissioners to discuss repairs to a concrete wall, including warranty considerations tied to the work. Additional concerns were raised about foundation settling that has resulted in window cracking in parts of the structure.
Routine maintenance needs were also discussed, including upcoming elevator servicing and fire alarm battery replacements.
Commissioners noted that there was a farm inquiring about a building tear-down project scheduled for April during the city’s free dump time which is limited to 2,000 pounds limit.
Public Safety and Utilities
Atmos Energy’s recent work addressing multiple gas leaks throughout the county prompted discussion. Commissioners expressed concern that prior notification had not been received before work began. Due to the situation, firefighters were placed on standby. The county is reviewing potential rates to charge per occurrence when emergency personnel must be mobilized under these circumstances.
Historic Adobe Museum Insurance
Ginger Anthony of the Historic Adobe Museum addressed commissioners regarding property insurance costs for the museum. Historically, insurance increases have occurred, and there was discussion about how the expense has been covered within the county budget.
For 2026, the museum received a $11,536 insurance bill. Anthony noted that the museum’s budget traditionally operates with limited flexibility and acknowledged the need to incorporate the insurance expense into future museum budgets. Anthony also informed commissioners of her plans to retire from her position at the museum.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
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