May 29, 2023 – 9 a.m.

The Board of County Commissioners did not meet in observance of Memorial Day.

—————

May 30, 2023 – 9 a.m.

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

The Commission reviewed and unanimously approved minutes of May 22 and 23.

Planning and Zoning Director Jon Bristor presented a permit application from Dalton Murphy for firework display on July 3 with a rain date of July 4.  Director Bristor advised he has received all necessary completed paperwork and fees. The Commission unanimously approved, authorizing Chairman Cooney to sign the permit.  Additional discussion included upcoming cases.

Jan Grace, Campus Operations Officer (COO) for the Cowley College – Sumner County Campus provided a campus update to the Commission.  Grace reports enrollment is up from last year, with classes close to max enrollment.

James Krstolich, Ideatek of Buhler, Kans. met with the Commission requesting a letter of support for a broadband grant to help those that are underserved with fiber and wireless services.  Also present were Economic Development Director Stacy Davis and USA Communications Phil Brown.  After discussion, the Commission denied the request because most of the area served was in Sedgwick County.

Jane Cole discussed the Court Appoint Special Advocate (CASA) program.  She presented a refund check of $41,605.84, as the program was closed effective January 2023.

Economic Development Director Stacy Davis, Jill Kuehny (KanOkla) and Diane Thompson (Haviland Broadband) discussed the Sumner County Broadband Consortium.  The discussion included a request for a letter of support for a broadband grant.  The Commission agreed to sign a proposal with a specific amount of matching funds of $20,000.

County Counselor Jack Potucek provided general reviews and updates.

The Commission reviewed and unanimously approved current-year abatement orders in the amount of $10,416.80.  Prior year abatements were also approved in the amount of $34,408.86.

There was no further business, so the Board of County Commissioners adjourned at 11:50 a.m.