Minutes, November 14, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

NOVEMBER 14, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 14^th day of November 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Kermit Rush, 1^st District Commissioner

Lavel Heitschmidt, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

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

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Sheriff Tracy Ploutz reported that jailer, Phyllis Hogg, had resigned and that he has elevated Jonathon Hayes, part-time employee, to a full-time position at range 10, step d.

Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, asked permission to purchase a computer projector for $718.40 with some remaining bio-terrorism funds. If the funds are not used, they will have to be returned. The projector would be available for all county offices to use. The Commissioners approved the purchase.

Joe Shepack, County Attorney, brought the Commissioner up-to-date on the eminent domain proceedings for land owned by Dr. Vopat. Purchase Order 00057, in the amount of $500, for registration to a Forensic Evidence class to paid from the KPAT was presented for approval. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Purchase Order 00057. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Abatements 2005,1-7 in the amount of $1,013.18. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

 

5. ADJOURNMENT

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

 

_________________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, November 7, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

NOVEMBER 7, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 7^th day of November 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of October 31, 2005. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Carl Miller, Appraiser, clarified the holiday schedule for January 1, 2006. He has new aerial maps for the townships. A request was made to purchase a new computer and monitor to be used with the GIS. The total cost including the labor would be $4,400. The Commissioners approved the purchase.

A telephone conference was held with Becky Crowder, Austin Peters Group, regarding EMS salaries. Kevin Ludlum, EMS Director, was present during the conference. Mrs. Crowder explained that many counties are facing the same difficulties we are having with the large overtime expense. However, she did not recommend a lower tier of salaries. She suggested that the situation be handled through management and scheduling. She will be sending information on salary trends for 2006. Mr. Ludlum and the Commissioners further discuss the overtime problem and Mr. Ludlum felt that by building the volunteer base and reclassifying the volunteers and pay schedule, some of the overtime situation could be alleviated.

Linda McCowan, Facilitator, and Bob Peter, Chairman, of the Prairie Enterprise Project, gave the Commissioners an update on the program. Also in attendance was Peg Britton, Board Member and Anita Hoffhines, interested party. Mr. Peter reported that Rice County will be dropping out of the project next year but Pawnee County might be interested in coming into the group. Ellsworth County is very active with seven business tune-ups, seven new businesses and ten ongoing projects. The Prairie Enterprise Project as well as other projects have been evaluated and by an outside group and the Prairie Enterprise Project has received very high marks. Funding for the project is fine through 2006, but after that it might be necessary to ask for increased funding from the participants.

Teresa Shute, Noxious Weed-Landfill Supervisor, gave the Commissioners a recycling report showing the tonnage down from last year. The new bins the inmates from ECF made are working real well. With them, they have been taking down larger loads to Great Bend at one time cutting down on the frequency of the trips. American Recycling Day is November 15^th and they will be holding an Open House and will serve hot dogs through the noon hour. Again this year they will have prizes that have been donated by merchants.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

The Commissioners discussed the sale of the old 4-H barn and felt they could settle on the 27^th of December and just do a deed for cash.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the October accounts payable in the amount of $485,803.96. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to appoint Gene Linton to the Board of Directors of the North Central Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush and spouse and Commissioner Kueser will attend the Kirkham Michael & Associates Appreciation Dinner.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 11:00 a.m. to tour the newly acquired property behind the Courthouse. Mr. Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, went with them to discuss the future demolition of the houses on the property.

 

_____________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, October 31, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

OCTOBER 31, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 31^st day of October 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda as printed.

Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of October 24, 2005 as corrected.

Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

2. APPPOINTMENTS:

Sheriff Tracy Ploutz reported he had given the Ellsworth Fire Department an old custom console that went with the transmitter that was agreed upon last week. He has added it to the agreement. Upon the request of Sheriff Ploutz, Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session from 9:03 a.m. until 9:20 a.m. to discuss non-elected personnel. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 9:20 a.m. No action was taken. Sheriff Ploutz attended a Sheriffs’ Conference last week and saw some digital recorders for patrol cars that he is interested in purchasing. He will return with additional information before purchase. Commissioner Heitschmidt asked about the Taser training and the Sheriff responded that he has not and will not train on the equipment until the Ellsworth County Attorney approves a policy.

Jonathan Mitchell, Ellsworth City Administrator, asked the Commissioners for a letter of support for the city’s proposed grant application for a pedestrian and bicycle trail. It is an 80-20% grant through KDOT. The total cost of the project would be in the half-million range. If they get the grant, construction would begin in 2007. Commissioner Rush moved to give the City of Ellsworth a letter of support for the proposed project. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Anita Hoffhines, Ellsworth County Economic Development, Inc., asked about the two resolutions on nonmetropolitian enterprise regions they had on their Agenda for passage. It was explained that it was nothing new, just a renewal of the regional plan handled through North Central Regional Planning Commission.

Kevin Ludlum, EMS Director, asked permission to apply for a grant to help with the cost of a First Responder class that will be taught by Shelly Maze early in 2006. The Commissioners agreed that a grant would be good idea.

Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, reported that Dr. Vopat had refused to sell the land necessary to construct the new bridge south of his house. Mr. Nondorf needs 7/8 of 1/10^th of an acre for construction and .527 of an acre for a temporary right-of-way easement during the construction period. Commissioner Kueser moved to initiate eminent domain proceedings for 7/8 of 1/10^th of an acrs for bridge construction and a temporary right-of-way easement of .527 of an acre in the NW ¼ of Section 28-14-10 and the NE ¼ of Section 29-14-10. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Mr. Nondorf reported he was looking at the state surplus for a truck and if he found one, he would have to move quickly and but a hold on it. He does have money in his budget to purchase one this year.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Heitschmidt moved to approve Abatement 2004-68 (2003 Refunding Warrant) for $284.36. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Heitschmidt moved to approve the October payroll in the amount of $144,971.89. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Resolution 05R15, A Resolution Reconfirming Support For The Qualifying Regional Strategic Plan Designating The County of Ellsworth As a Nonmetropolitan Business Region and Resolution 05R16, A Resolution Reconfirming That A Regional Economic Development Organization Has Been Established As Required By 74-50-11c (1) For The Purpose Of Qualifying The County Of Ellsworth As A Designated Nonmetropolitan Business Region. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners also asked that Appendix A, that will accompany these resolutions, be changed from Anita Hoffhines being the contact person to the Commissioners as the contact and the Economic Development section should be changed to "none".

5. OTHER BUSINESS:

The Commissioners reviewed a letter from the Barton County Administrator stating that after the first of the year, Central Kansas Community Corrections will be consolidated with the Juvenile Justice Authority. This action is being taken due to the lack of funding by the State of Kansas. Commissioner Kueser, Board Member of Central Kansas Community Corrections, discussed the resignation of their Director, Les Harmons, and the deep financial cuts the organization had received. Although he is not one hundred percent convinced this is the way to go, he felt the County should support the consolidation.

6. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 11:26 a.m.

 

 

_______________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, October 24, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

OCTOBER 24, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 24^th day of October 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda with additions.

Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the Minutes of October 17, 2005.

Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Roger Pearson, ECMC Administrator, gave the Commissioners his "dashboard reports" for the period ending September 30, 2005. Financially, the hospital is $41,000 ahead of budget for the quarter. The Century Building purchase has been closed and they are focusing on getting the electricity and utilities hooked up so tours for the employees and community can take place.

Kenny Bernard, Emergency Management Director, gave the Commissioner a brief update on his activities. He has had a request from the Ellsworth Fire Department to use one of the two extra transmitters assigned to the Sheriff’s office. Mr. Bernard has checked with the Sheriff and is in agreement to let them use it. The Commissioners asked that Mr. Bernard draw up an agreement spelling out the terms for use and replacement if damaged and that it will be returned immediately if the Sheriff has a need for it. Also, it will still be carried on the Sheriff’s inventory. Mr. Bernard received notice that he will be receiving $78,000 from the bio-terrorism grant and most of that will go for decontamination units for the hospital. In answer to a question posed by the Commissioners, Mr. Bernard stated he did have a list of the all the equipment he has purchased through the grant program and where it is located.

At the request of the Commissioners, Rick Nondorf, Road & Bridge Supervisor, met with them to discuss a letter from John Westerman on the county-line road between Lincoln and Ellsworth County. After reviewing the letter and the agreement between Lincoln County and Ellsworth County, the Commissioners asked that Mr. Nondorf not do any maintenance on said road. The agreement with Lincoln County states that they will do maintenance on the road. In the future, if calls are make asking for maintenance, they are to be referred to the Lincoln County Commissioners.

Tracy Ploutz, Sheriff, asked the Commissioners to approve Purchase Order 00056 for Suicide Prevention in Custody video for $159.75. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Purchase Order 00056 in the amount of $159.75. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, presented the two bids on the electrical work for the new garage. Rolling Hills Electric was $2,695 and Anderson Electric was $3,170 or $500-$600 less after requested alterations. Upon the recommendation of Mrs. Kasiska, Commissioner Kueser moved to accept the low bid of $2,695 from Rolling Hills Electric for the wiring of the Health Department garage. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

An employee pre-termination hearing was scheduled at 11:30 a.m. The employee was not present; therefore, no hearing was held.

Joe Shepack, County Attorney, requested the Commissioner go into executive session to discuss the sale of real estate. Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session from 11:35 a.m. until 11:50 a.m. to discuss the sale of county real estate. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 11:50 a.m. No action was taken.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the County Clerk’s request to purchase a scanner, label maker and two bar code scanners for the HAVA database in the amount of $1,434. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Abatement 2004-67 as ordered by the Board of Tax Appeals in the amount of $84,747.33. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 12:00 Noon.

____________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

 

Minutes, October 17, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

OCTOBER 17, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 17^th day of October 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioners

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

Commissioner Heitschmidt moved to approve the Agenda with an addition. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0.

Commissioner Heitschmidt moved to approve the Minutes of October 10, 2005. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Upon the request of Road & Bridge Supervisor, Rick Nondorf, Commissioner Heitschmidt moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 9:18 a.m. until 9:25 a.m. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0. County Clerk, Jan Andrews, was included in the executive session. The Commissioners returned to open session at 9:25 a.m. Commissioner Heitschmidt moved to terminate Road & Bridge employee, Jason Carr, absent from work for eight days without notification, effective October 17, 2005. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 2-0. Mr. Nondorf reported the State would start the Wagner Bridge on October 14 with a 60-days completion schedule. The next bridge is the one in Wilson Township. One of the three houses scheduled to be torn down by the Road & Bridge has been finished. Mr. Nondorf questioned whether anyone would be able to salvage any of the material from the two houses behind the Courthouse that will be torn down. The County Attorney has advised the Commissioners, that due to liability issues, they should not consider this option.

Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, reported one of their computers crashed and they would like to purchase one at a cost of $695.21 from the bio-terrorism funds. The Commissioners approved the purchase. A bid from Rolling Hills Electric for the electrical work in the new garage was $2,625. In talking with Mr. Anderson, he said with the changes suggested by the Commissioners, he could reduce his bid of $3,170 by $500-$600. Nothing was done on the bids until more information could be gotten.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

The signing of the contract on the "former hospital building" was delayed until receipt of the earnest money.

A discussion was held on the premium for the family health insurance. Last year it was raised to $350 and the employees wanted to know if there would be a change as it might affect their choice of options in completing their enrollment for 2006. It was decided to keep the employee family deduction at $350 per month for 2006.

 

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Terry L. Kueser, called at 10:50 a.m. and entered the discussion on the resolution to sell the "former hospital". Commissioner Rush moved to approve Resolution 05R14, A Resolution Whereby The County Agrees To Convey Certain Real Estate, Commonly Known As The "Old Hospital", to Greg Marsh of 2130 First Avenue, Suite 910, New York, New York. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion via telephone conference. Motion carried 3-0.

5. OTHER BUSINESS:

The Commissioners visited with Joe Shepack, County Attorney, about a sundry of items. Such items included properties the county had purchased, abatements and employee issues.

6. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 11:10 a.m.

 

______________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, October 10, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

OCTOBER 10, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 10^th day October 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of September 26 and October 3, 2005 as presented. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

David Rose, Mid West eServices, discussed the three offers for the former hospital building. One offer was for $100,000 and two for $150,000 with financing options. The offer from Greg Marsh Properties from Woodmere Realty & Investment was for $100,000 cash or $150,000 over a three-year period. Commissioner Kueser moved to accept a contract for the purchase of the former hospital building contingent upon receipt of 10% earnest money and review of the contract by the County Attorney. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motions. Motion carried 3-0. Closing was set for November 14, 2005.

Kevin Ludlum, EMS Director, presented a policy for use of the bank credit cards. Commissioner Rush moved to accept the policy as presented. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. In light of the issuance of credit cards, all other gas cards will be cancelled and the petty cash fund will be reduced to $100. Mr. Ludlum gave the Commissioners copies of the monthly run stats and financial reports and reported the work on the roof was to begin this week. Also, the tire rods on the department car will have to be replaced at a cost of $300-$400.

Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, discussed flu shots for employees this year. They will bill the insurance company for them, and it was agreed that the county would pick up any additional expense. In order to save money, she has decided to not renew the janitorial contract of $600 for next year. The employees will take care of the daily maintenance and if additional heavy cleaning is needed they will seek that particular service. Mrs. Kasiska talked with Rolling Hills Electric and they are preparing a bid on the new garage. In her conversation with Mr. Anderson about his bid, he said the 220-service would be cheaper to operate than the 120-service. She expects a new bid from Anderson Electric.

Kenny Bernard, Emergency Management Director, presented a proposal for purchase of supplies to equip the Shelter & Response Trailer to accommodate fifty people. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the purchase of supplies to equip the Shelter & Response Trailer in the amount of $1,558.25. Mr. Bernard has taken the federal and state's NIMS and ICS course and will be certified as an instructor.

David Smith, Ellsworth County Police Chief, reported they have had a house donated for a year for the family they hope to relocate to Ellsworth from the disaster area of New Orleans. They are now looking for an employable individual to come to the area and they are also seeking financial assistance for utilities and food. Cash donations can be funneled through the local banks.

David Bailey, Post Rock Rural Water District and Doug McKinney, North Central Regional Planning Commission asked the Commissioners to pass an interlocal agreement supporting the grant for Post Rock Water District. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Interlocal Cooperative Agreement for Purposes of Supporting the Community Development Block Grant Sponsored by Ellsworth County on Behalf of Post Rock Rural Water District. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Tracy Ploutz, Sheriff, reported he had finished a cement project at the jail and had asked Ralph Doubrava to lay a concrete pad for a trash dumpster. He presented a revised policy on Use of Force that includes the use of Tasers. Upon the request of Sheriff Ploutz, Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive to discuss non-elected personnel from 11:40 a.m. until 12:00 Noon. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 12:00 Noon. No action was taken.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to appoint Lavel Heitschmidt as delegate and Kermit Rush as alternate to the KCAMP Annual Meeting. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. OTHER BUSINESS:

The Commissioner met with Ralph Doubrava to tour the front sides of the building that need to have something done to control the water drainage. After reviewing several options, they asked Mr. Doubrava to draw up an estimate for repair.

6. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 12:25 p.m.

 

____________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk

Minutes, October 3, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

OCTOBER 3, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 3^rd day of October 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda with an addition.

Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Tracy Ploutz, Sheriff, advised the Commissioners he was signing off on the agreement regarding Phase I of the Local E-911 communication system. The first item to be addressed is the installation of another telephone line in the dispatch. After that is completed, software will have to be installed and then all the cellular companies will have to be notified that we are ready to be tested for Phase I & Phase II. Upon the request of Sheriff Ploutz, Bud Cowan, Attorney-Assist with KCAMP Insurance, was reached by phone for a telephone conference. When reached, Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss attorney-client-privileged information from 9:15 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion and motion carried 3-0. Tom Job, KCAMP Administrator, was included in the executive session tele-conference. The Commissioners returned to open session at 9:30 a.m. Commissioner Kueser moved and Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion to return to executive session to discuss attorney-client-privileged information from 9:30 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. Motion carried 3-0. Mr. Cowan and Mr. Job were included in the executive session. The Commissioners returned to open session at 9:40 a.m. No action was taken.

Kevin Ludlum, EMS Director, asked if a decision had been made on the issuance of credit cards for gasoline purchases. Last week they had a problem when an employee had to use her personal credit card to purchase fuel for the ambulance and with the price of gas, it was a considerable amount. After much discussion, Commissioner Kueser moved to apply for five credit cards from First Bank Kansas for emergency gasoline and tire purchases. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners reiterated that the cards were to be used for emergency purposes only and that receipts of those purchase be given to the director in a timely manner. Any abuse of the cards will result in the cards being cancelled immediately. Mr. Ludlum asked if his decision to keep the ambulance they now have in Holyrood and the proposed new ambulance will be kept in Ellsworth was agreeable with them. The Commissioners felt that was a good decision.

Roger Pearson, Roger Peterson, Jonathan Mitchell and Gregg Hoffman, met with the Commissioners on the closing of the purchase of the Century Building. The building will be used for additional space for the ECMC. Due to the recent decision of the Board of Tax Appeals, Commissioner Kueser moved not to pursue a petition and/or judicial appeal of the Board of Tax Appeals decision to abate the 2003 and 2004 taxes. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Consideration will still have to be given to the 2005 taxes, as the decision did not cover year 2005. The Hospital Revenue Bonds, Series 2005 was completed on Friday, October 1, 2005 in an amount of $900,000. A check was issued to Smoky Hill Title for $315,016 for the purchase of the Century Building.

Gary Wacker requested the Commissioner to contact Union Pacific Railroad to have two railroad crossings, one on the low road (Ave L) and on Hwy 111 (Missouri St., Kanopolis), milled down.

Ronda Kasiska, Health Supervisor, submitted a bid from Anderson Electric for electrical service to the new garage. The bid was for $3,170, however, the Commissioners felt 220 volt service was not necessary and asked Mrs. Kasiska to have Anderson Electric to prepare another bid replacing the 220 volt with 120 volt service and reducing the number of electrical outlets called for in the original bid. The Commissioners also suggested she seek a second bid on the work. Mrs. Kasiska reported she will be sending her lab work to KPC instead of Central Kansas and explained the reasons for that decision.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

All three Commissioners will be attending the luncheon hosted by Pawnee County on October 19, 2005.

The Commissioner reviewed two offers on the former hospital building from the listing on eBay. They discussed the offers with the County Attorney but tabled any decision until more information was available.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Rush moved to appoint Terry L. Kueser to represent Ellsworth County on the Board of Directors for Central Kansas Community Corrections. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Welcome Home soft lien in the amount of $1,500 to Jerry Trammell. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Rush moved to approve the September payroll in the amount of $145,787.63. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the September accounts payable in the amount of $125,109.33. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to appoint Commissioner Heitschmidt as delegate and Kermit Rush as alternate to the Annual KWORCC meeting. Commissioner Rush seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to appoint Commissioner Rush as delegate and Commissioner Kueser as alternate to the KAC Annual Meeting. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

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

 

____________________________________

Janet L. Andrews, County Clerk

Minutes, September 26, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

SEPTEMBER 26, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth county Commissioners convened this 26^th day of September 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of September 16, 2005. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Kevin Cowan, Gilmore & Bell, walked through the revenue bond issuance for the hospital’s purchase of the Century building. Commissioner Rush moved to approve Resolution 05R11, A Resolution Authorizing and Directing Issurance, Sale and Delivery of $900,000 Principal Amount of Hospital Revenue Bonds, Series 2005. Commissioner Kueser seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The bonds will be finalized on October 1, 2005 and Chairman Rush will need to sign bond documents on that day.

Sheriff Tracy Ploutz had little to report but asked to go into executive session. Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss pending litigation from 9:41 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. County Attorney, Joe Shepack, was included in the executive session. The Commissioner returned to open session at 10:00 a.m. No action was taken.

Brent Goss & Michelle Brokes, Extension Service, discussed with the Commissioners the sale of the old 4-H barn located on 1^st Street. An option was given to Rolling Hills Electric to purchase the building for $10,000 upon the completion and use of the new barn. Commissioner Kueser moved to notify Rolling Hills Electric that if they are still intent on exercising their option on the barn, they would be willing to close on the transaction on January 3, 2006. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Clerk will notify Rolling Hills Electric of this decision.

Doug McKinney, North Central Regional Planning Commission, and David Bailey, Post Rock Rural Water District, brought the Commissioner up-to-date on their grant process including the capital improvement costs and low and moderate income survey. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Resolution 05R12, A Resolution Certifying Legal Authority to Apply For The 2006 Kansas Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program From the Kansas Department of Commerce And Authorizing The Mayor/Commissioner To Sign And Submit Such An Application. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. Commissioner Kueser moved to approve Resolution 05R13, A Resolution Assuring The Kansas Department Of Commerce That Funds Will Be Continually Provided For The Operation And Maintenance Of Improvements To The Water System To Be Financed With Community Development Block Grant Funds and the Contract Certification Form For Applicants. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Upon a request from Joe Shepack, Ellsworth County Attorney, Commissioner Rush moved to go into executive session to discuss attorney-client privilege from 11:40 a.m. until 12:00 Noon. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioners returned to open session at 12:00 Noon. No action was taken.

3. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 12:00 a.m. However, Chairman Rush will be available on Friday, October 1, 2005 to complete the signing of the hospital revenue bond closing.

 

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Ona Crawford, Ellsworth Deputy Clerk

 

 

 

 

Minutes, September 12, 2005

ELLSWORTH COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

MINUTES

SEPTEMBER 12, 2005

The Board of Ellsworth County Commissioners convened this 12^th day of September 2005 at the Ellsworth County Courthouse.

Members Present:

Lavel Heitschmidt, 1^st District Commissioner

Kermit Rush, 2^nd District Commissioner

Terry L. Kueser, 3^rd District Commissioner

1. OPENING BUSINESS:

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

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Agenda as printed.

Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the Minutes of September 6 and September 8, 2005. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

No one was present for the Public Forum.

2. APPOINTMENTS:

Carl Miller, Appraiser, presented a proposal from Infinitic for a Parcel Search Module. This module includes both a Public Search and Registered Search. Different levels would be setup and the county could charge according to the customer’s level of choice. Infinitic would offer this service for a 90-day trial without charge. After that time if you wish to continue using the service, the county would be billed for those services. Fee Appraisers, bankers and abstractor would probably be the ones using the service. The Commissioners agreed that the service could be provided on the 90-day free trial basis and revisit the program after that time to see if it something that was needed and would be self-supporting. Mr. Miller hosted the North Central Appraiser Association meeting last Friday at the Courthouse and had a very good turnout.

Kevin Ludlum, EMS Director, reported the Road & Bridge Department had resurfaced their parking lot. Surveys were went out to the volunteers regarding a proposed change in how they are paid and allowing them to work shifts if needed. Out of twenty surveys sent out, nine were returned and the majority was in favor of the changes. Also, he has received the grant he had applied for to train two EMT’s. The Board of EMS wants to keep track of the runs on a trail basis for four months through a computer-based system. If the system has merit, they may continue it and if not Region IV may pick it up. In order to participate in this program, Mr. Ludlum asked to purchase two laptops at a cost of $906.92 each. The Commissioners approved the purchase of the two laptops. A proposal to upgrade the EKG machines in Wilson and Holyrood to an AED Pro Semi-Auto/Manual was presented. The cost of two machines with trade-in allowance would be $6,152. The Commissioners questioned if budget was available for both the computers and AED machines and Mr. Ludlum assured them funds were available. The Commissioners approved the purchase of the two AED machines with final approval coming through the regular accounts payable.

Sheriff Tracy Ploutz asked to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel. Commissioner Kueser moved to go into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel from 9:58 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. The Commissioner returned to open session at 10:05 a.m. No action was taken.

3. OLD BUSINESS:

There were no old business items.

4. NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the contract with Central Kansas Mental Health Centers for 2006 for $17,768. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

Commissioner Kueser moved to approve the bid from Doubrava Woodworking Inc. to rework the back steps to the Courthouse in the amount of $3,860. Commissioner Heitschmidt seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.

5. ADJOURNMENT:

Chairman Rush adjourned the meeting at 12:15 p.m.

 

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Janet L. Andrews, Ellsworth County Clerk