Commissioners revise fair board bylaws
After meeting with fair board president Kayla Kafka, the Phillips County Commissioners approved revised bylaws for the board, which went into effect Aug. 19. In addition to updating some outdated portions, the revisions also changed the number of people who will serve on the board, which previously consisted of 11 members. That number has now been reduced to nine.
Commissioners also reported at their Aug. 30 meeting that they recently compared facility rates in surrounding communities to those charged at the pavilion, event center and RV park at the Phillips County Fairgrounds. As a result, new rates have been approved and will be effective and posted at a date that has yet to be determined.
Phillips County commissioners also received an update from County administration on the GoKeyless door locking system at the pavilion. Individual remote access codes will be used by renters using the pavilion. As such, Deanna Webster, who works in the administration office, will need remote access to a laptop that will be staged in the pavilion. Commissioners approved the purchase of the laptop at an approximate cost of $500.
Grant applications, purchases approved
Bob Heldenbrand of Phillips County’s Office of Emergency Management submitted two applications through the Emergency Management Performance Grant Program. Both grants were approved, and eight padded office desk chairs are being purchased for the OEM event room, and a projector and screen are being purchased for the Biesemeier Room.
Both grants are 50-50, and Phillips County will be matching funds of $887.50 and $4,000 respectively.
Sheriff Thom Elliott has also applied for a federal Justice Assistance Grant. If awarded, the $39,770.13 will be used to purchase 13 new radios and their necessary accessories for vehicles in the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office as well as Holyoke and Haxtun police departments.
In addition, commissioners approved repairs to the weed and pest department’s 2010 Ford pickup at a cost not to exceed $2,500. They also approved a request by the sheriff’s office to purchase two LED light bars for department vehicles. The cost is approximately $6,200.
Board meets with several individuals
Last month, the board of commissioners met with Joe Bellm, Phillips County Raceway promoter, to discuss races for the 2020 season. He is planning for eight events.
Monica Perez and Elizabeth Cypers of the U.S. Census Bureau shared information with the board about the upcoming 2020 census.
County auditor Ronnie Farmer presented the 2018 audit and cost allocation plan. Commissioners accepted the 2018 audited financial statements and certified the cost allocation plan.
Other business
In other business during the month of August, commissioners:
— Learned that the County’s Amherst water well is experiencing sand and low pressure issues. Cost of a new well is being investigated.
— Approved the retail tavern liquor license for Blisties.
— Signed a mutual aid channel agreement with Sedgwick County.
— Reviewed the County’s inclement weather policy.