Sumner County Commissioner Minutes: Nov. 20 and Nov. 21, 2023
November 20, 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 were County Clerk Debra A. Norris, House Representative Bill Rhiley, and Republican Chairman Glen Burdue. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Commission reviewed and unanimously approved minutes of November 13 and 14.
Maintenance Director Joe Struble and Assistant Director Jimmy Thornton updated the Commission on various projects.
County Treasurer Dannetta Cook advised the Commission the annual tax statements have been mailed to all properties in the County. She advised first half of taxes are due December 20, 2023, second half will be due on/before May 10, 2024.
At 9:30 a.m., the Commission, acting as the Board of Canvassers, reviewed the votes cast and provisional ballots for the City/School election held on November 7. County Election Official Norris and Deputy Election Clerk Erin Bohannon advised that 3,080 of the 16,581 registered voters voted. There was an 18.58% turnout across the County. In addition to the city and school election results, the City of Conway Springs question passed 143-67, to impose a one percent (1%) citywide retailer’s sales tax to improve city streets and other infrastructure needs. The provisional ballots are reviewed and counted based on standard recommendations provided by the Secretary of State. Of the 66 provisional ballots, recommendations were made that 48 ballots should count, 14 ballots should not count and four ballots be partially counted. After review, the Commission signed the Certificate of Canvas.
The Commission also reviewed and unanimously approved payables to Kansas Gas Services for $914.27.
County Counselor Jack Potucek provided general reviews and updates.
There being no further business, the Board of County Commissioners adjourned at 11:19 a.m.
November 21, 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. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
County Counselor Jack Potucek with Planning and Zoning Director Jon Bristor discussed a request to annex property into the City of Belle Plaine for a future water tower. After review and discussion, the Commission unanimously approved the request of island annexation and provided necessary documentation to Belle Plaine City.
At 10:20 a.m., upon unanimous vote, the Commission entered into executive session for 15 minutes with Counselor Potucek for an attorney/client privileged matter. Also present were Attorneys Doug and Austin Pfalzgraf, County Treasurer Dannetta Cook, Administrative Assistant Jennifer Helpingstine and Clerk Norris. At 10:35 a.m., the Commission reconvened in open session. No binding action was taken as a result of the executive session.
The Commission reviewed and unanimously approved prior year abatement orders in the amount of $2,521,839.14.
There being no further business, the Board of County Commissioners adjourned at 10:40 a.m.
