Grant County Commission opened its meeting January 20, with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before moving into its annual organizational business and a full agenda of county matters.
As part of the organizational portion of the meeting, commissioners reaffirmed meeting dates for the first and third Tuesdays of each month, designated official depositories and the county’s official newspaper, granted the County Treasurer authority to invest county funds, and approved appointments for department officials, supervisors, and those authorized to approve claims using county funds. John Martin was selected to serve as Commission Chairman for the term.
Most department appointments were retained from the previous year, with two changes noted: Chris Meile was appointed Assistant EMS Director, and David Manzano was named Building Maintenance Supervisor. Appointments for the Board of Aging were discussed but tabled until the February 3 meeting.
Discussion then turned to the Noxious Weed Department, including questions about the county’s Prairie Dog Eradication program. Chairman Martin expressed uncertainty about the county’s involvement, while Anita Lane clarified that the county is currently exploring the possibility of undertaking a larger eradication project and determining how such work is billed. Commissioners approved a motion allowing the county to charge only the direct costs of the program, without billing for labor or equipment.
Reid Borchetta addressed the need to purchase a new microfilm machine after the court system’s printer replacement rendered the existing machine incompatible. The $8,064 purchase was approved to come from the District Court Office Equipment Fund for use in the Court Department.
Building Maintenance Supervisor David Manzano provided several facility updates. He reported a water leak discovered in Julie Widder’s office, traced to an old patched window, and recommended adjusting the north downspout to prevent future issues. Manzano also requested approval to repair a fence at the Health Department for $404.10, which was granted. Additionally, repairs to concrete at the Extension Office were approved, provided the cost does not exceed $600.
Nancy Borthwick discussed lighting upgrades at the Senior Center, noting the improvements could save approximately $500 per month in energy costs. Commissioners approved the purchase of 102 lights for $4080.
Additional reports were received from the Road and Bridge Department and the Chamber of Commerce.
A Solid Waste public hearing and forum was held during the meeting, with the proposed plan receiving approval. Commissioners also reauthorized participation in a Student Loan Repayment Program coordinated with the State of Kansas and approved the Noxious Weed Department’s annual plan.
The board approved closing the necessary offices in the Courthouse early to the public on December 31 to allow the County Treasurer to complete year-end deposits. Notice of the early closure will be published in the official newspaper.
County Administrator Anita Lane requested a five-minute, non-elective executive session to discuss personnel matters. No action was taken following the closed session. The commission then approved county minutes and bills.
Robin Leonard of the Chamber of Commerce requested permission to use the Fire Station for legislative coffees, which was granted. Mari Honstead discussed plans to update lighting in the Civic Center parking lot, noting she has secured $10,000 in grant funding to offset costs. Pioneer Electric has been consulted regarding pole replacements, and bids were reviewed for Civic Center and Tractor Pull lighting, including necessary bases and poles. Commissioners approved a $24,900 bid from Goosen Electric after grant funds were applied.
Chairman Martin also raised questions regarding ordinances related to older trailer homes being brought into the community. That discussion was tabled pending further review with the City.
With no further business, Martin made a motion to adjourn, which was seconded by Commissioner Darrin, concluding the meeting.
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