Sumner Newscow report – The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session in the Commission room of the Sumner County Courthouse.  Those present were Chairman Steve Warner, Commissioner Jim Newell and Commissioner John Cooney.  Also present was County Clerk Debra A. Norris and 80^th House Representative Bill Rhiley.  The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

May 16, 2022

The Commission reviewed and unanimously approved minutes of May 9 and 10.

At 9:30 a.m., the Commission held a public hearing regarding a request submitted by Michael McConnell, to vacate streets and alleys in the Town of Portland, South of the abandoned Geuda Springs, Caldwell and Western Railroad right-of-way and West of Prairie Road.  Those present included Guelph Township Trustee James Fair and Robert Ty Kimsey. County Clerk Norris reported the required notice was sent to adjoining property owners and notice of the hearing was published.  Notice was also sent to Guelph Township Officers and Road and Bridge Department.  No opposition was present.  After discussion, the Commission unanimously approved and adopted Resolution 2021-13.

Planning and Zoning Director Jon Bristor presented Planning Commission Counsel Pete Orsi with a plaque for his service to the Planning Commission.  Director Bristor introduced Sarah Newell as replacement counsel for retiring Orsi.  Chairman Warner was authorized to sign a letter of engagement with Ms. Newell to serve as counsel for the Planning and Zoning board.

County Appraiser Cindy Magill discussed departmental issues with the Commission including a tax valuation illustration for taxpayers, comparing 2017 to 2021.  This information will be posted on the website.

At 10:10 a.m., upon unanimous vote, the Commission entered into executive session for 20 minutes with Appraiser Magill to discuss non-elected personnel.  At 10:30 a.m., the Commission reconvened in open session.  Chairman Warner advised no binding action was taken as a result of the executive session.

At 10:42 a.m., upon unanimous vote, the Commission entered into executive session for 10 minutes with County Counselor Jack Potucek to discuss non-elected personnel.  At 10:52 a.m., the Commission reconvened in open session.  Chairman Warner advised no binding action was taken as a result of the executive session.

Counselor Potucek provided general reviews and updates.

Sheriff Darren Chambers discussed the 2023 budget request and traffic tracking issues for the County.

County Treasurer reported funds distributed from the Kansas Star Casino in the amount of $141,987.13.

The Commission reviewed and unanimously approved payables in the amount of $108,855.75.

The Commission reviewed a letter of resignation from Richard Salsbery as Eden Township Trustee.  A letter from David Richardson was also reviewed to be considered as a replacement.  Notification from the remaining board approved the request from Mr. Richardson.  After review and discussion, the Commission unanimously appointed Mr. Richardson to fill the term as Eden Township Trustee.

There being no further business, the Board of County Commissioners adjourned at 11:31 a.m.

May 17, 2022 – 9:00 a.m.

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session in the Commission room of the Sumner County Courthouse.  Those present were Chairman Steve Warner, Commissioner Jim Newell and Commissioner John Cooney.   Also present was County Clerk Debra A. Norris.  The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Maintenance Director Joe Struble provided departmental updates.

E911 Director Marcie Bristor and Deputy 911 Director Cara Wichman discussed radio equipment with the Commission.  The antiquated system will need to be updated soon.  The radio system currently used can be replaced at a cost of approximately $6,000 per radio.  Discussion included funding and a plan of action. Director Bristor advised she is working on grants towards an eventual solution and will update the Commission at a later date.

County Counselor Jack Potucek provided general reviews and updates.

At 10:12 a.m., upon unanimous vote the Commission entered into an executive session for 10 minutes with Clerk Norris and Clerk II Sarah Mercer to discuss non-elected personnel.  At 10:22 a.m., the Commission reconvened in an open session.  No binding action was taken as a result of the executive session.

Noxious Weeds Director Robin Ralls provided cemetery updates to the Commission.

At 10:33 a.m., upon unanimous vote the Commission entered into executive session for 20 minutes with Director Ralls to discuss non-elected personnel.  Counselor Potucek was also present.  At 10:53 a.m., the Commission reconvened in open session.  Chairman Warner advised no binding action was taken as a result of the executive session.

Director Ralls was directed to get a phone for cemetery use.

There being no further business, the Board of County Commissioners adjourned at 11:12 a.m.