Ellsworth County Commission Minutes

Minutes, June 22, 2009

2009-06-30T14:07:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

JUNE 22, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 22^nd day of June 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda with a deletion. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of June 8 and June 15, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Phyllis Dolezal, President of the Ellsworth County Historical Society, and board members, Janice Essick and Norma Hokr, presented their budget request for the Society for 2010. They requested $30,000, the same as last year. The Commissioners complimented them on the number of volunteer hours donated to keep the museum running and restoring the buildings.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, met with the Commissioners to discuss the salary schedule presented last week that would allow the EMS personnel to be paid for sleep time. The Commissioners were not ready to make a decision as they wanted to do more checking on the figures given and if those figures work out, there would probably be a salary freeze for the EMS department for 2010. However, they did feel that a service of our size should set the number of Paramedic required to run the service. Mrs. Maze recommended three Paramedics slots and the rest of the service would be EMT's. Presently, we have four trained Paramedics so the remaining one would have to be moved to the EMT position on the salary schedule.

Judge Mike Keeley, John Isern, Sabrina Chism and Peggy Svaty, representing the 20^th Judicial Court, presented their 2010 budget request of $80,000. This is a decrease of $1,000 from 2009. Judge Keeley explained that with the State's financial difficulties the state judicial clerical staff will be furloughed one week per month starting in January 2010. To help remedy the Judicial Branch budget crisis, Chief Justice Davis is seeking Federal Recovery Act-Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grand funding. In order for the fund to be used locally, the County Commissioners must voluntarily sign a waiver certifying that they agree that funding the project at the state level is in the best interests of the units of local government.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

There were no new business items.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:50 a.m.

_________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes June 15, 2009

2009-06-23T09:58:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

JUNE 15, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 15^th day of June 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Brent Goss, Troy Soukup, Jamie Rathbun and Dan Johnson, representing the Extension Service, requested $105,500 for their 2010 budget. This was an increase of $2,016 or approximately 2%. Mr. Goss brought up the subject of regional extension districts and they discussed the pros and cons of combining counties into different districts.

The Ellsworth County Soil Conservation District, represented by Pam Hays, Glenn Walker, Brad Kratzer, Bernard Habiger and Phil Chegwidden, did not ask for an increase for their 2010 budget. This year they received $29,000 and they feel that will be sufficient for next year.

Janet Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk, presented her 2010 Clerk and Election budgets. The Clerk's budget was $99,136 and increase of $1,200 or 1.2% and the Election budget was $51,530 and increase of $1,280 or 2.5% from the 2008 budget. The comparison is made to the 2008 budget as that is the last year for both a primary and general election and 2010 will have the same elections.

Upon the request of County Attorney, Joe Shepack, Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss pending litigation and attorney client privilege from 10:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 11:00 a.m. No action was taken. Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 11:01 a.m. until 11:11 a.m. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Joe Shepack and Jan Andrews were included in the executive session. The Commissioners returned to open session at 11:11 a.m. No action was taken.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, and Rick Soukup, Paramedic, showed the Commissioners the new cardiac monitor that was received and purchased through a grant funded by the State Board of EMS. Mrs. Maze presented financial report through May, 2009 showing the receipts thus far for 2009 totals $147,456.12. A pie chart showing how the receipts were generated was also presented. An Ellsworth County EMS Shift Proposal was presented showing the cost of eliminating the seven hour sleep time and paying for the whole 24 hour shift. In that proposal the personnel agreed to lower their per hour time but would received the same total wages for the year. The Commissioners will take the proposal under consideration in the next couple of weeks as Mrs. Maze would like to implement the new system with the July pay period. The open house on June 6^th went well with approximately 300 attending.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

There were no new business items.

5. OTHER BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to propose to the ECMC Board of Directors funding of $4 million for their building projects with a General Obligation bond and sales tax election to be held in August 2010. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

6. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:57 a.m.

_________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, June 8, 2009

2009-06-23T09:57:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

JUNE 8, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 8th day of June 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of June 1, 2009. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Pat Murray, Clara McCoy and Shelia Srna, representing Central Kansas Mental Health, presented their budget request for 2010. They asked for $19,998, an increase of $582 or 3%.

The following citizens representing the various senior programs in the county appeared to present their budget requests for 2010: Sylvia O'Neill, Ginny Boots, Dave Koralek, Edith Pennington, Dorothy Thomas, Juanita Boley, Eleanor Hunter, Wray Ann Miller, Ron Etchison, Merv Harms, Darrell Thrasher and Gloria Thrasher. The total requests from all the organizations totaled $124,632 an increase of $57,468 or 85%. Individually, ECCA asked for an increase of $1,515, 7.4%, Ellsworth Senior Center an increase of $56,215, 275%, Wilson Senior Center $209 increase, 1.3% and Holyrood remaining the same. Much discussion followed in regards to the large increase requested by the Ellsworth Senior Center. Mr. Koralek spoke to their needs and used the meals served as criteria for increasing their portion of the levy.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, asked the Commissioners to select an engineering firm for the inspection of the low road project. There were five firms to choose from. The Commissioners selected Kirkham, Michael & Associates. The Black Wolf Bridge is done and the 1995 Chevy pickup has been put up for sale by sealed bid.

Carl Miller, Appraiser, presented five more Neighborhood Revitalization applications for approval. The Commissioners approved the five applications bringing the total number of 19 applicants that qualified. Mr. Miller presented his budget for 2010 of $115,400 a decrease of $395. The Commissioners discussed the requested abatement on a pipeline from American Energies. Mr. Miller had no problems with the abatement and in talking with the County Clerk, paperwork has been sent to American Energies to start the process.

Carolee Miner, Shelia Nelson-Stout and Pat Wallerius, representing OCCK, Inc. presented their budget request for 2010. No increase in funds was requested for 2010. As an organization, they stated they were going to try and operate within the available resources and try to take advantage of other forms of revenue that might be available to non-profit organizations.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

The Commissioners discussed the $7 million funding request for the various hospital projects. No decision was made.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

There were no new business items.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:20 p.m.

_____________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, June 1, 2009

2009-06-16T14:53:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

JUNE 1, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 1^st day of June 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of May 16, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Jo Funk, Sanitarian with the Salina-Saline County Health Department, visited with the Commissioners on the status of the LEFF state funded program. The state is cutting the program by 29%. The funding was established in 1990 and has never been increased. Therefore, the Salina-Saline Health Department has been subsidizing the program especially these past few years. They feel they can no longer do that, so they are asking the counties that are in the LEFF program to contribute for the services provided. The analysis showed that Ellsworth County services were subsided in 2008 by $11,593. Mrs. Funk recommended that some of the fees be increased. They went over a list of fees and agreed which ones could be increased. Commissioner Rush moved to allocate $5,000 for LEFF services for 2009 and budget $10,000 in 2010. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order for the hearing on a road closure in Wilson Township. Landowners, Frank Princ, Gretchen Schwarz and John O'Neill, were in attendance. With no opposition to the closure, Commissioner Kueser moved to adopt the Certificate of Opinion and Order for Road Closure for the following road in Wilson Township:

A road running north and south as between Sections 31 and 32 in Township 14 South and Range 10 West of The 6^th P.M., with the portion of the road to be vacated being that portion of the road commencing at the Southeast quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 31, Township 14 South, and Range 10 West of the 6^th P.M. and then running north approximately 1,340 feet to the Smoky Hill River.

The Commissioners requested that Roger Pearson, ECMC Administrator, attend the meeting to answer some questions they had regarding the $7,000,000 request from the Board for expansion of the hospital. A discussion was held with no funding decision being made at this time. They will try to have the funding decision made by the hospital board's June 17^th meeting and present it at that time.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

The hospital projects were discussed with Mr. Pearson in the appointment portion of the Agenda.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Resolution 09R04, A Resolution of the Commissioners of the County of Ellsworth Stating It Is The Authority's Commitment To Approve And Adopt The Multi-Jurisdictional Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Including All State And FEMA Requirements In Compliance With FEMA Standards and Guidelines. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the May payroll in the amount of $170,971.99. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the May account payables and prewritten warrants in the amount of $215,123.22. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:30 p.m.

___________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, May 26, 2009

2009-06-01T15:08:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

MAY 26, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 26^th day of May 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda with an addition. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of May 18, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Linda Denning, Owner of the Ellsworth County Independent Reporter, advised the Commissioners that she would be filing an open records violations on the county with the County Attorney. Also, she is asking that it be sent directly to the Attorney General as Mr. Shepack was representing the Appraiser, Carl Miller, on the alleged violation. She wanted to let the Commissioners know before she filed it and that there would be reference to it in this edition of the paper. Mrs. Denning called later in the morning saying she was delaying the filing for a couple of weeks due to the tragic death of Mr. Miller's son.

Roger Pearson, ECMC Administrator, presented the financial reports for April showing a profit of $66,442 for the month and a year to date loss of $653,048. At the last Board Meeting, the Board passed a motion requesting the Commissioners to fund the hospital construction projects in the amount of $7,000,000. A brief discussion was held on the financial aspects of the projects with no decision on the funding being made at this time. The new administrator should be on board sometime after the first of June.

Teresa Shute, Noxious Weed-Landfill Supervisor, reported that she had hired Rick Harper for summer help.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

The Commissioners approved the proposed ad for the Ellsworth County Guide being printed by the Ellsworth County Independent Reporter.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to approve Abatement #164 in the amount of $419.06. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

____________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, May 18, 2009

2009-05-29T08:35:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

MAY 18, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 18^th day of May 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of May 11, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, reported this is EMS week and she is putting a proclamation in the paper. They will have an open house on June 6^th. In response to the public forum in Holyrood, she has moved the oldest unit to Holyrood. Wilson's ambulance was also switched in order to get better use and mileage from the vehicles. The Commissioners discussed whether or not the switching of ambulances solves the problems since both services do not have adequate volunteers to staff the ambulances. It was suggested that the services be given one year to see if they can solve the staffing problems and then revisit the policy of keeping ambulances rather than response vehicles in the communities.

Rob Fillion, Director of Smoky Hill Economic Development, Inc., and officials from American Energies Corporation of Wichita visited with the Commissioners about requesting a 10 year abatement of taxes on a 15 mile pipeline project the company plans to install in southern Ellsworth County. Using a nitrogen rejection unit, the company has found a lightweight and relatively inexpensive way to process low BTU natural gas into market quality gas. The Commissioners were receptive to the idea, but wanted to talk with the County Appraiser before a decision is made.

Dave Smith and Anita Hoffhines, representing Ellsworth County Crime Stoppers, asked the Commissioner for a donation to the organization. Previously, the Commissioners had approved a $1,000 donation for information on the recent fires being set in Ellsworth County. The community interest in obtaining such information and how best to use the money being offered to get that information led to the formation of the Crime Stoppers organization. Commissioner Kueser moved to donated $1,000 to Ellsworth County Crime Stoppers. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the amended Landfill Waiver Policy. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Resolution 09R03, A Resolution Appointing An Appraiser for Ellsworth County Per K.S.A. 19-430. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

The County Clerk discussed a meeting she and the County Treasurer had with Manatron about the replacement of the iSeries 400 computer. IBM will no longer support the unit with software or maintenance. Manatron has suggested we purchase a used 515 model that should last for five years. The State's Motor Vehicle Department plans to switch to a PC based system in five years and at that time we will have to reconsider our system. The price of the new system with maintenance contracts, tapes, installation and new printers for the Treasurer's office is estimated at $28,589. The Commissioners agreed to proceed with the proposal.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:55 a.m.

__________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, May 11, 2009

2009-05-21T11:36:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

MAY 11, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 11^th day of May 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda with an addition. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of May 4, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported they had finished the Haase and Tanton bridges and had started replacing one on the Rice bridge road. They have gotten their dump truck/snow plow from the state and it only looks like it will have to have about $1,200 worth of work done it. In regards to the old truck, he does not want to sell it in the present condition. The Commissioner reviewed the policy for surplus property and suggested if he wanted to ask the cities or schools if they would be interested, he could do that. If one of the entities decides they want the truck, have the donation put on the Agenda for disposition according to policy. Mr. Nondorf asked the Commissioners to sign some documents for the low road project. Four bid estimates have been received on a ¾ ton pickup. They are a Ford, $22,125, a Dodge, $22,273 and two Chevrolets for $22,072 and $22,507. The Commissioners authorized Mr. Nondorf to look at all the options, especially the lower estimate ones, and make the best deal possible. Mr. Nondorf has learned that some oil might be available this summer for sealing.

At 10:00 a.m. Chairman Oller called to order the Hearing for a Road Closure in Columbia Township. No one was present for the Hearing. Commissioner Kueser moved to close, per the request of the Columbia Township Board, the following road in Columbia Township:

Said road is a township road and lies between Section 6, in Township 14 South and Range 9 West of the 6^th P.M., Ellsworth County, Kansas and Section 31 in Township 13 South and Range 10 West of the 6^th P.M., Lincoln County, Kansas and proceeds east one mile.

Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. It is noted that Lincoln County will close their portion of the road today in conjunction with our closing.

Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 10:32 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. County Appraiser, Carl Miller, and Janet Andrews, County Clerk, were included in the executive session. The Commissioners returned to open session at 10:45 a.m. No action was taken. The Appraiser, Carl Miller, discussed and reviewed with the Commissioners the recent editorial in the Ellsworth County Independent Reporter criticizing his department for not giving them information that they had requested. Also, he received a letter from their attorney about information. The County Attorney, Joe Shepack, has answered the letter from the attorney outlining the statues for requesting information and the ability of private companies to sell the information. As yet, he has not heard from the attorney or gotten a written request for the Ellsworth County Independent Reporter and no information has been sent out. He has also had a request for information to be created in a format that is not available to us from the Flint Hills Organization, however, our software company, Manatron, wrote a program for it and made it available to all the counties that have their software. He will be sending that information.

Rob Fillion, Director of Smoky Hill Economic Development, Inc. and Gerry Gebhardt, City of Kanopolis representative on the Smoky Hill Economic Development Inc. Board, met with the Commissioners and Mr. Miller to go over the Neighborhood Revitalization applications that had been received. Fifteen applications have been received with thirteen qualifying and two being denied because their projects did not meet the criteria. There are eleven that still could qualify, but they have not applied to date. The deadline for filing the application is May 31, 2009. The thirteen qualifying applications were reviewed in detail. Commissioner Rush moved to approve the thirteen qualifying Neighborhood Revitalization applications for processing. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Commissioner Kueser moved to agree with the recommendation of Mr. Miller to deny two of the applications as they did not meet the qualifying criteria. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. After the May 31^st deadline, Mr. Miller will meet with the Commissioners again to approve any additional applications.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

The Commissioners discussed amending the Landfill Waiver policy adding that tires would not be included in the waiver. The revised policy will be presented next week for approval.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:10 p.m.

____________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, May 4, 2009

2009-05-12T14:54:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

MAY 4, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 4^th day of May 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda with a deletion. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of April 27, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Dustin Avery, Piper Jaffray & Co., walked the Commissioners through several scenarios for financing the additions the hospital has proposed. Included was General Obligation bond with a sales tax, Public Building Commission with a sales tax added in 2010 at a general election or a special election to be held in 2009. Mr. Avery also discussed extending the present one half cent tax we through the life of the new issue. In order to get more precise calculation, Mr. Avery felt that he needed a more definitive cost of the project. The Commissioners will arrange a meeting with the ECMC Board to try and get the requested information and Mr. Avery will contact Kevin Cowan, Bond Counsel with Gilmore & Bell for legal clarification on the items discussed.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to approve Abatement #144 in the amount of $90.26. Commissioners Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the April Payroll for $180,966.84. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve April Accounts Payable and Prewritten Warrants in the amount of $156,101.60. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:45 a.m.

_____________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, April 27, 2009

2009-05-05T15:28:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

APRIL 27, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 27^th day of April 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda with additions. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of April 20, 2009. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Teresa Shute, Noxious Weed-Landfill Supervisor, updated the Commissioners on the permitting of all of the quarter section being used for the landfill site. The State is going to permit the new site immediately and then finish the remaining land. The new recycling building is ready to be used and she is in the process of getting bids for the electricity for the building. With the growth of the recycling and summer spraying to be done, she would like to hire a part-time summer worker. The Commissioners gave Mrs. Shute permission to advertise for a summer worker.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported that the new leak detector and probes for the fuel tanks are working well. The employees have finished their defensive driving class and have received certificates. This not only helps with the County's insurance but the individuals' as well. He has had one employee recently hired resign and one employee is updating his CDL license and two are getting their CDL license. One of the trucks is in Salina with a transmission problem. He has found a state truck to replace their 1985 dump truck-snow plow for $10,000. He may have to replace the motor, but even with that it is a good buy. The Commissioners authorized Mr. Nondorf to purchase the truck.

Tracy Ploutz, Sheriff, reported the air-conditioning in the dispatch area was in and working well. Also, the training room downstairs is almost completed.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Upon the request of the County Attorney, Commissioner Kueser moved to hire an assistant prosecutor to handle one case due to a conflict of interest with the County Attorney. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve a Hearing as requested by Columbia Township to close a one-mile road between Section 6 Township 14 Range 9 in Ellsworth County and Section 31 Township 13 Range 10 in Lincoln County. The hearing will be held on May 11 at 10:00 a.m. with Lincoln Township holding their hearing at the same time to close their portion of the road. Commission Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve State ordered abatements 123-143 in the amount of $9,783.36. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:05 a.m.

_____________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, April 20, 2009

2009-04-30T14:27:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

APRIL 20, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 20^th day of April 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of April 13, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Bill Weber, Holyrood, expressed his concern with the proposed decision to take the ambulance out of Holyrood and replace it with a response vehicle. The Commissioners explained that with the declining number of volunteers in the area, transfers in the ambulance were not always possible. Also, the cost of replacing an ambulance has escalated and with the declining volunteers and runs, it was not economically feasible to retain an ambulance. However, a response vehicle with the same equipment that is in an ambulance would be placed in Holyrood with transfers being made by the ambulance coming from Ellsworth. The Commissioners stressed that they felt the service for Holyrood would not be compromised or lessened if this decision was made.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Roger Pearson, ECMC Administrator, passed out his "dashboard" report for the last quarter and the financial report for March. The financial report showed a loss of $111,380 for the month of March and a year-to-date loss of $719,490. Mr. Pearson encouraged the Commissioners to make a decision on how the hospital additions were going to be funded so they could get their informational packets ready for the public and have public discussion. The Commissioners will need to decide if they are going to finance the additions with a General Obligation Bond or Public Building Commission. With the GO Bonds, an election would have to be held and with the PBC, one would not have to be held. Also, if an election is decided, will it be a special one or held in 2010 with the regularly scheduled elections. The Commissioners asked the County Clerk to contact Piper Jaffrey, Bond Counsel, and schedule a meeting.

Amy Boxberger, Central Kansas Community Corrections, presented her 2010 Comprehensive Plan for approval. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the 2010 Comprehensive Plan for Central Kansas Community Corrections as presented. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Shawn Hellebust, Advertising Manager at the Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter, presented their plan to produce an Ellsworth County Resource Book for Residents & Visitors. It will have information on towns, services, businesses and celebrations. Commissioner Kueser moved to place a one-half page ad in the book at a cost of $169. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Rob Fillion, Smoky Hill Economic Development, Inc. Director, and Mr. & Mrs. Harvey Yoakum stopped in to make contact again with the Commissioners.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, reported they would be having an EMS Open House on June 6. She is starting to work on salary schedules as previously discussed. The following employees have finished 90-day probationary periods and she asked that their salary be moved accordingly: Josh French 11d, Shawna Haase, 7d, Lois Herman 11d, Rick Soukup 7d, Terri Stone 7b, Derek Walter 11b. Commissioner Rush moved to approve the recommendations of the EMS Director on the employees who have finished their 90-day probationary period. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioner congratulated Mrs. Maze on being named the EMS Employee of the Year by the VFW and asked that she attend the Holyrood City Council meeting that evening to help with the dialogue on the proposed changes in that city.

Upon the request of Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 11:05 a.m. until 11:20 a.m. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. County Clerk, Jan Andrews, was included in the executive session. The Commissioner returned to open session at 11:20 a.m. Commissioner Rush moved to accept the recommendation of the LEPC Committee for representation on the NCK Homeland Security Regional Council with Commissioner Oller being the alternate. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

The Commissioners asked the County Clerk to respond to a letter from Steve Olson requesting the county allow him to purchase materials and an outside contractor to do the work on 30^th Rd south of Ave R and be reimbursed for both the materials and service. Since the road is a township road, the Commissioners denied his request and asked that he contact the Empire Township Board.

3. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:10 p.m.

__________________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, April 13, 2009

2009-04-23T08:51:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

APRIL 13, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 13^th day of April 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of April 6, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Frank Princ discussed the open road the river in Wilson Township that his neighbors would like to have closed. The area is used for parties and illegal dumping. After the road is closed they would like to put up a fence. The Commissioners had received a letter from the other landowners requesting the road closure and Mr. Princ would go along with the closing. Since the road is governed by the township board, they would have to petition the road closure. Mr. Princ will contact the Wilson Township Board to see if they will start the process.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, met with the Commissioner to discuss the meeting that was held on Tuesday, April 7^th. Also present at the Commission meeting were EMS personnel, Lois Herman, Gaye Woods, Joshua French, Rick Soukup, Roy Falk and Derek Walter. Mrs. Maze reported the meeting went well even though Commissioners Rush and Kueser were unable to attend. One item that came out of the meeting was the desire of the EMS staff to do away with the 5 hour sleep time and be paid for the full 24 hour shift. Since this will create more schedule overtime, the hourly salary might have to be adjusted. Mrs. Maze will prepare some schedules and cost for the Commissioner to review before making any decision on whether to go to a fully paid 24 hour shift. The second item discussed at great length was the changing from a full ambulance being kept in Holyrood to having a response vehicle. The Holyrood EMT's were divided on their acceptance of this change. Mrs. Maze will meet with the Holyrood City Council and report back to the Commissioner. The EMS was awarded a grant for a defibrillator valued at $23,000. Upon the request of Mrs. Maze, Commissioner Rush moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 10:35 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 10:45 a.m. No action was taken.

David Bailey, Post Rock Rural Water District Manager, and Doug McKinney, North Central Regional Planning Commission Director, reported the grant project had been completed. Mr. Bailey thanked the Commissioners for their sponsorship of the grant. The Commissioners explained that due to the amount of grant money received and the normal funding the county receives from the federal government, we are now subject to an OMB Single Audit. Since the grant funding made us subject to the single audit, Post Rock Rural Water District will be responsible for the cost of the single audit. Our auditing firm, Bartlett Settle and Edgerle has offered the county a contract for the audit at a maximum cost of $4,500. Commissioner Rush moved to enter into a contract with Bartlett Settle & Edgerle for a single audit at a maximum cost of $4,500 to be paid by Post Rock Rural Water District. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, presented a contract for signature with Kirkham Michael & Associates for engineering for the overlay of the low road project. Commissioner Kueser moved to enter into an agreement with Kirkham Michael & Associates for engineering services to prepare plans for the KDOT American Recovery & Reinvestment Act project to overlay the low road with asphalt pavement. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

3. OLD BUSINESS ITEMS:

There were no old business items.

4. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:50 a.m.

________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, April 6, 2009

2009-04-14T08:52:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

APRIL 6, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 6^th day of April 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of March 30, 2009. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

The Commissioners interviewed Donald Kozisek, an applicant for the position of Ellsworth County Hospital Center board member. Mr. Kozisek stated that he felt the health care in Ellsworth County was outstanding and that his main purpose in apply for the appointment was to make a contribution to Ellsworth County. The Commissioners thanked him for his time and will get back to him with their decision as there are three other applicants.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported he had received a letter stating that the company they purchased oil from had been bought and he might be able to purchase some sealing oil in the next two to three weeks. Also, he attended a meeting on the stimulus projects the state will be bidding this fall, and the requirements for culverts, signs and engineering fees will have to be met by the county at their expense. If the project comes in over budget, the county will also have to absorb those expenses. He will keep them informed as more information becomes available.

Phyllis Dolezal, President, and Melvin McCary, Board Member, of the Ellsworth County Historical Society, asked for a waiver of landfill fees for some of the projects they are working on at the Museum. Commissioner Rush moved to grant a landfill fee waiver for $1,000 for the year 2009 to the Ellsworth County Historical Society. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 9:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 10:00 a.m. Commissioner Rush moved to appoint Donald Kozisek to a 4-year term on the Ellsworth County Medical Center Board of Directors beginning July 1, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Dave Haberman, Representative with ING, gave a presentation on the Kansas Public Employees Deferred Compensation Plan and asked if the Commissioners if they offer the plan to their employees. The Commissioners asked that he give information to the County Clerk to be given to the employees to see if they are interested in additional retirement plans. If enough employees show an interest, they will contact him.

Upon the request of Kenny Bernard, Emergency Management Director, Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 10:30 a.m. until 10:40 a.m. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 10:40 a.m. No action was taken. Mr. Bernard discussed representation on the North Central Kansas Homeland Security Board. He has an individual interested in serving in that capacity.

Dave Smith, Ellsworth City Police Chief, visited with the Commissioner about the recent formation of Crime Stoppers. A Board is in place, by-laws are being written and as soon as that is done, they will be applying for their 501c tax status. At a later date, he will visit with them about some funding from the county.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Upon a request by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, Commissioner Kueser moved to proclaim April as Fair Housing Month. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the March payroll in the amount of $164,090.98. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve March accounts payable and prewritten warrants in the amount of $178,444.75. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:50 a.m.

_______________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes March 30, 2009

2009-04-09T11:44:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

March 30, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 30^th day of March 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda with an addition. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of March 23, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Penny VonLehe, Dispatch Supervisor at the Sheriff's Office, first of all thanked the Commissioners for the new air-conditioner for the dispatch area. Secondly, she asked that they sign a proclamation celebrating April 12-18 as National Safety Telecommunications Week. The Commissioner signed the proclamation and will have it published. Also, they will be having a reception on April 14^th from 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. at the Sheriff's office. Mrs. VonLehe reported that she will asking Dispatcher, Darla Odle, to assist her as supervisor so there is a backup and continuity in the position.

David Koralek, Treasurer of the Senior Center, discussed some of the financial data he had gathered on the cost of the meal at each center. Also, in his survey of 17 counties, he had found that most of them were funding the Elderly Services with 2 mills. He questioned the distribution of the funding between ECCA and the Senior Center but was told that the percentage of distribution was the one the two groups requested, not one that they decided upon.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported that through the government's stimulus program, the 2" overlay on the low road was selected as one of the projects to be funded. He will be attending a meeting on Thursday in Salina about the project. Ellsworth County will be responsible for $100,000 on the project. Mr. Nondorf informed the Commissioner he will be looking for a couple of ¾ ton pickups to replace present route trucks.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

The Commissioners, as requested, signed a form of support for the City of Kanopolis in their application for a grant from KDHE.

Commissioner Kueser moved to re-appoint Russell Bunch, Kanopolis, as Commissioner District #3 representative, to the Smoky Hill Economic Development, Inc. Board of Directors. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve changes in G-8. Other Leave & Travel Expense in the Ellsworth County Handbook. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:00 Noon.

_________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes 23, 2009

2009-04-09T11:43:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

March 23, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 23^rd day of March 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda with an addition. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of March 9, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of March 16, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Roger Pearson, ECMC Administrator, distributed the February financial data showing a profit for the month of February of $13,228 and a year-to-date loss of $608,110. Also, he distributed a new graph showing liquidity, productivity, efficiency and profitability that he will be submitting now instead of the income statement. A discussion was held on the candidates interviewed for Mr. Pearson's position upon his retirement.

Tracy Ploutz, Sheriff, asked if a decision had been made to add the position of investigator for his department through the COPS grant program. The Commissioners vetoed adding the position at this time. Two bids were received to add an air-conditioner to the dispatch area. One was for $3,050 and the other $3,676.76 plus there would be an additional cost for electrical work which Mr. Nece, Nece Electric, estimated at $675. Mr. Ploutz also requested that the cost be paid from County Building rather than coming from his budget. Commissioner Kueser moved to accept the bid from City Plumbing for $3,050 and an additional cost of approximately $675 for the electrical work to put additional air-conditioning in the dispatch area with the County Building Fund funding the project. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, presented 2008 response stats on each vehicle in the service and time of call out. In response to the statistics, further discussion was held on changing Holyrood from a service using a full ambulance to a response vehicle. Also, Mrs. Maze presented the total schedule for this year showing the scheduled overtime and an alternate schedule. The alternate schedule would have more overtime, due to the fact that sleep time would be eliminated and employees would be paid for 24 hours rather than 17 hours. An informational meeting with KEMSA members has been scheduled for April 7, 2009 at 6:00 for the Commissioner to discussion both these items.

Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, asked the Commissioner to sign a grant application to be submitted to the State of Kansas. Also, write-offs in the amount of $477.79 were presented for approval. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve write-offs in the amount of $477.79 for uncollectable accounts over 2-years old. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners also suggested that if accounts under $5 were not collected in six months, no further bills be sent.

Kenny Bernard, Emergency Management Director, reported new LEPC officers had been elected and that Roy Folk was now the new chairman. The mitigation grant is almost completed and upon its completion, the county will have to pass some resolutions making it official. The Storm Spotter meeting will be held April 7^th at the Ellsworth Fire Department.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

Commissioners Oller and Rush will be attending the North Central Highway meeting.

Landowners on both sides of Ave A have inquired about closing the road on Section 6-14-9. Since it is on the county line with Lincoln County, it will have to be done simultaneously. Lincoln County has a county-road system and in Ellsworth County, Columbia Township has jurisdiction. The County Clerk will contact Columbia Township about the road.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to approve Abatements 119 & 122 in the amount of $73.86. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Resolution 09R02, A Resolution Authorizing The Ellsworth County Sheriff To Sell Property In Return For A Vendor Credit. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:10 p.m.

_____________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, March 16, 2009

2009-03-25T12:00:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

March 16, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 16^th day of March 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as corrected. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Ellsworth City Clerk, Patti Booher, introduced the new City Administrator, Timothy Vandall, to the Commissioners.

Sheriff Tracy Ploutz presented purchase order 0103 for a 2007 Ford Crown Victoria at a cost of $12,850 for approval. Commissioner Rush moved to approve purchase order 0103 in the amount of $12, 850. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0. Regarding the vehicle being replaced, Sheriff Ploutz showed the Commissioner a flyer from OMB, a company that deals in sheriff equipment, stating that they would bid on used sheriff vehicles and if accepted would give a line of credit to the department in that amount to use for purchases. Sheriff Ploutz asked that the auditor be contacted to see if that would be possible because he is interested. There is a COPS grant available that would allow law enforcement to add staff with the grant paying the salary and benefits for three years. However, after the three year period, the county would have to maintain the position and cover all the cost for at least one year. Sheriff Ploutz is interested in applying for the grant to add an investigator to his staff. Since Commissioner Kueser was absent, the discussion was tabled until next week.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, met with the Commissioners at their request to discuss the recent overtime expense. Mrs. Maze explained it was mostly scheduled overtime and with the shift schedule, it could not be avoided. Many items were discussed such as different hours of service and the need for ambulances in Wilson and Holyrood versus a response vehicle. Mrs. Maze will look at some options and meet with the Commissioners next week.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to approve abatements 117 & 118 in the amount of $30. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

______________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, March 9, 2009

2009-03-25T11:59:00.000-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

March 9, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 9^th day of March 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of March 2, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported that in order to access some of the stimulus money allocated to the State, projects would have to be submitted by September. He will submit the sealing of the low road to Kanopolis and the Salt Mine road. On the bridge we share with Lincoln County, he suggested we let Lincoln County go ahead with the bridge. The fuel system at the department needs to upgraded at a cost of $8,663. Commissioner Oller moved to allow the purchase of the fuel system at a cost of $8,663. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Also, Mr. Nondorf asked to trade in the 1977 lowboy trailer to a new one at a cost of $20,712. Commissioner Kueser moved to allow purchase of a 2009 35-ton lowboy trailer from Victor L. Phillips at a cost of $20,712. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Abatement 116 for $289.46. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve payment of 2009 due to the Wilson Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $50. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

The Commissioners recessed at 10:15 a.m. to tour the Hudson Bridge and other projects. Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:00 Noon.

______________________________________________

Ona Crawford, Deputy Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, March 2, 2009

2009-03-20T11:15:00.001-05:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

March 2, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 2^nd day of March 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of February 23, 2009. Commissioner Oller seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Pat Kinnaird, Central Kansas Mental Health, shared with the Commissioners information on the education/collaboration in Ellsworth County and the utilization of services. In September through December of last year CKMHC served 42 residents as new admissions. Mrs. Kinnaird reported that their numbers were going up and they anticipated more of an increase due to the economy. Due to the fact that funding is being decreased, there is a grave concern that the "public safety net" will be further eroded.

Rob Fillion, Executive Director of Smoky Hill Economic Development Corp., and Board Member, Curt Glaser, discussed Project Census 2010 and the fact that they would like to be the lead organization in the county to make sure that every citizen is counted. They are going to organize a Complete Count Committee that will help field workers in getting the correct information they need to do their job.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Abatements 108-114 in the amount of $575.32. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the February payroll in the amount of $174,494.26. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the February accounts payable for $84,608.67. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve a Cereal Malt Beverage License for Tower Harbor Marina. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:20 p.m.

____________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, February 23, 2009

2009-03-05T11:36:00.001-06:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

FEBRUARY 23, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 23^rd day of February 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda with an addition. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of February 17, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Tracy Ploutz, Sheriff, presented revised bids for construction of the training room in the basement of the jail. He received two bids: Ralph Doubrava $16,570 and Mark Roehrman $12,439. Commissioner Rush moved to approve the bid for jail improvement from Mark Roehrman in the amount of $12,439 to be paid from the County Building Fund. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners discussed joining with other entities and offering a reward for information on the recent fires that have been started in Ellsworth County. Sheriff Ploutz agreed but asked that the reward be for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the individual rather than conviction. Ellsworth Fire Chief, Bob Kepka, will be meeting with the Ellsworth City Council tonight. The Commissioners committed to $1,000 for the reward.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, discussed the funding needed for the bridge on the county-line we share with Lincoln County. Ellsworth County will not have any obligating funds from the State until 2013 and we have a bridge schedule to be bid that year. Also, it is not known yet if the 20/80 bridge funding will be in the new state highway funding budget. The engineering fees for the design of the bridge would be $32,500 of which our half would be $16,250. The rest of the cost of the bridge would be $460,000 of which we would be responsible for 10%. The Commissioners will wait until Lincoln County puts it on their state plan before making any decisions. Mr. Nondorf reported he had received a call from Kirkham Michael & Associates on the stimulus plans from the state. Projects would have to be ready to go by September in order to access the funding. He will keep the Commissioners informed.

Commissioner Oller left the meeting at 10:15 a.m. to attend a funeral.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

The Commissioners received three applications for the Ellsworth County Medical Center Board of Directors. They will be forwarded to the Administrator, Roger Pearson.

In a letter from FEMA, they indicated that the Flood Plain Maps for Ellsworth County will be final on June 16, 2009. Information will be coming on the National Flood Insurance Program and how it should be implemented.

The County Clerk presented the Commissioners with the 2008 County Inventory.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Vice-Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

___________________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, February 17, 2009

2009-02-23T14:51:00.001-06:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

FEBRUARY 17, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 17^th day of February 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of February 9, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Carl Miller, Appraiser, reported he had received the ag values from the State of Kansas and the dry cropland as well as grass is lower per acre this year. Also, the average value of a barrel of oil went from $74 to $49. These values will impact our values for 2009. However, Oneok will be higher this year.

Gerry Gebhardt, Kanopolis Council Member, requested a landfill waiver for the City of Kanopolis. They are tearing down a house and will bring the debris into the landfill. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve an application for waiver of landfill fees of $1,000 for Project K01 for the City of Kanopolis per county policy. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

The Commissioners discussed a burn ban but took no action.

Due to scheduling conflicts, none of the Commissioners will be able to attend the Resources Conservation Service Contractors Meeting in Lincoln on February 19^th.

Chairman Oller opened the bids for the lease on the landfill land. They were: Donald Soukup $3,010 and Cris & Brian Gourley, $3,500. Commissioner Rush moved to approve the bid from Cris & Brian Gourley for $3,500. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. A lease will be forwarded for signature.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Abatements 98,100-102 in the amount of $429.88. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Chairman Oller recessed the meeting at 10:05a.m. The meeting was reconvened at 1:30 p.m. at a county-line bridge in Mulberry Township to meet with Lincoln County Commissioners on replacement of that bridge.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at approximately 3:00 p.m.

___________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, February 9, 2009

2009-02-20T08:37:00.001-06:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

FEBRUARY 9, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 9^th day of February 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda with changes. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of February 2, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Teresa Shute, Noxious Weed-Landfill Supervisor, presented her annual Noxious Weed Report for signature. The Commissioners signed the report. Resource Management, the company that picks up our tires at the landfill, has gone up on some of their prices and our charge no longer covers the cost of the service. Also, Mrs. Shute asked that they review the charges for the Construction and Demolition Pitt. The Commissioners agreed to the following changes in fees for the landfill:

Tires Trucks

Car & Light Truck $ 1.25 Pickup $ 10.00

Truck $ 4.00 Small Truck (12ft) $ 25.00

Sm. Tractor/Hvy Equip $15.00 Med. Truck (12-16ft) $ 45.00

Lg. Tractor/Sm Loader $30.00 Lg. Truck (over 16ft) $ 75.00

Max Size 23.4x38 Semi Load $125.00

Lg. Loader $55.00

Sheriff Tracy Ploutz presented two bids for a training room in the basement. After consideration, the Commissioners did not accept the bids asking instead that he rebid the project with the bottom of the wall construction being cinder blocks and then framed and sheet rocked thereafter. Sheriff Ploutz discussed the recent bale fires in the community and said they were suspicious in nature. They are working on the cases. Also, a new deputy has been hired and he will send him to the academy for training.

Larry Sharp, Member Services Representative with KCAMP, reported 57 counties were now affiliated with KCAMP. He explained the many services they offered with emphasis on training.

Michelle Maze, EMS Director, reported Bob Fitzgerald has transferred from her department to the Road & Bridge Department effective February 19, 2009. His position will be filled by Terry Whitmer who is presently a part-time employee.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

There were no new business items.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:05 a.m.

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Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, February 2, 2009

2009-02-09T15:46:00.000-06:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

FEBRUARY 2, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 2^nd day of February 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of January 26, 2009. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Neal Black, Carneiro Township Trustee, presented his resignation as Treasurer of Carneiro Township as he has moved from the township. Commissioner Kueser moved to accept said resignation. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Kelly Cikanek, Carneiro Township Trustee, and Glenn Walker, Carneiro Township Clerk, presented a list of three individuals who would be willing to serve as the new township Treasurer. Commissioner Rush moved to appoint Lori Wikoff as Treasurer of Carneiro Township. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Ronda Kaskiska, Health Supervisor, presented three contracts for Commissioner approval. The three were: building and lawn maintenance with Charles Huslig, pharmaceutical services with Barbara Kennedy and nurse practitioner with Debbie Whitmer. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the contracts between Debbie Whitmer, Barbara Kennedy and Charles Huslig. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Health Department will be doing an emergency management exercise on April 29 dealing with getting medication from the federal and state stockpiles. Write-off were presented for approval, however, the Commissioners requested more information before approving them. Upon the request of Mrs. Kasiska, Commissioner Rush moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 9:50 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 10:00 a.m. No action was taken.

Commissioner Rush moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 10:08 a.m. until 10:25 a.m. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Karen Renard was included in the executive session. The Commissioners returned to open session at 10:25 a.m. No action was taken.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported that he went to a meeting last week and learned that there was no seal oil available again this year. Also, they have started working on the bridge south of Black Wolf. Commissioner Rush moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 11:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 11:15 a.m. No action was taken.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the January payroll in the amount of $149,182.32. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the January accounts payable in the amount of $503,045.00. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Certificate requested by Smoky Hill Windfarm, LLC. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 11:50 a.m.

_____________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, January 26, 2009

2009-02-05T08:14:00.001-06:00

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING

MINUTES

JANUARY 26, 2009

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 26^th day of January 2009 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Albert W. Oller, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

Chairman Oller called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda as printed. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of January 20, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Upon the request of Sheriff Tracy Ploutz, Comissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 9:02 a.m. until 9:15 a.m. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 9:15 a.m. Commissioner Rush moved to advance Tom Burtzloff to 3c and Katerine Nelson to 10d on the salary schedule effective January 1, 2009. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Sheriff Ploutz reported that they had purchased a new CAD system and he would have to send Penny VonLehle to Oklahoma City for a week of training.

Sara Crangle, North Central Regional Planning Commission, reported the Post Rock Rural Water District project was almost done and they would have a walk-through sometime next week. She asked that they sign a Disclosure/Update Report for the Kansas Department of Commerce. The County will have to have a publication for fair housing and she will send something for us to review.

Kelly Cikanek, Carneiro Township Trustee, reported they had a township meeting on Friday night and he would provided a list of people who would like to be considered for appointment to the position of Township Treasurer. He made an appointment for next Monday.

Roger Pearson, ECMC Administrator, discussed plans for the proposed building projects. They sent out ten requests for long range building plans for the administration building, got five responses and chose three firms for presentation to the Board of Directors meeting in March. The administration building project will be paid through the depreciation fund. The financial report for the month of December showed a profit of $68,410 with a year-to-date loss of $455,794.

Gregory Vahrenberg, Piper Jaffray, reviewed the many options available for consideration in construction of additional hospital rooms and other proposed projects. He discussed GO Bonds, Public Building Commission, Revenue Bonds and sales tax giving pros and cons for each type of funding mechanism. Due to the fact, a total cost of project has not been decided upon, no decision was made. Also, the county Clerk is to gather additional information for Mr. Vahrenberg.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to approve Abatement #97 in the amount of $99.50. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Oller adjourned the meeting at 12:05 p.m.

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