Observer Corps Report
Eileen Marshall | Published on 5/23/2025
JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
April 17, 2025 through May 8, 2025 (most recent listed first)
Observers: Rebecca James, Jerry Gilson, Joan Gilson
The Board of County Commissioners encourages citizen participation in local governance processes. The public is invited to participate in the meeting. A copy of the rules, BOCC materials, meeting schedules and videos are available at https://boccmeetings.jocogov.org/OnBaseAgendaOnline/.
May 8, 2025
The Board recognized Mental Health Month. Public comments lasted about 15 minutes.
The Chair signed an agreement with Leawood to construct a stormwater management project, Tomahawk Creek Parkway, College to Roe, Stormwater Improvements Phase 1.
The following bodies were reorganized and new bylaws adopted: The Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board, the Community Corrections Advisory Board, the Solid Waste Management Committee, the Criminal Justice Advisory Council, the Public Art Commission, and the Johnson County Mental Health Advisory Board.
Johnson County Transit will join the NEORide Regional Council of Governments, a purchasing collective agency consisting of transit authorities in ten states.
Pam Shernuk was appointed to the Johnson County Housing and Community Development Advisory Council.
The Board approved including the following item on the November ballot: The renewal of the one-fourth cent Public Safety countywide retailers’ sales tax for 10 years, to be shared with the cities. The original quarter-cent sales tax was added in 2016 to fund the building of the Courthouse & the Medical Examiner Buildings.
Extensive discussion focused on the legality of the measure (it is legal, per state statute) and a number of public comments from members of the Good Faith Network (GFN) asserting the need for approaching the housing crisis with the same boldness with which this "public safety crisis" is being addressed with the renewal of the quarter-cent sales tax raising $35 million. The comments focused not on pitting housing against public safety, but on treating the housing crisis as foundational to public safety and community health.
Commissioners reached the decision to place this item on the ballot for renewal after an extensive comment period, survey results indicating that public safety is a priority for residents, and the fact that sales taxes are the most popular revenue option because they are paid by both residents and non-residents (28%). GFN members raised concerns about the survey process and transparency issues, along with social media comments that they should stick to volunteering and donating, and leave the policymaking to the county.
Chairperson Kelly stated that he appreciated the comments of everyone present, but that the Board is obligated to provide for all Johnson County residents without increasing the tax burden, and it is not helpful to pit housing against public safety.
Commissioner Brewer stated that solutions to broad problems like homelessness cannot be achieved through “My way or the highway” approaches; rather, these solutions require "and” approaches that draw on the resources of many parties.
Commissioner Fast noted that this vote is a procedural vote to add the item to the ballot for the voters to decide, and that cities in her district need public safety services, including timely 911 service. There has been a 60% increase in fires in the northeast in the last 10 years.
Commissioner Ashcraft thanked the representatives of the Good Faith Network for their comments and voted against the measure.
The Board unanimously approved Marielena Marroquin to the Johnson County Parks & Recreation District Commission.
The County will buy 10 ambulances from Osage Ambulances, MO, and Stryker Medical for $2,786,214.A
Commissioner Brewer noted that the consolidation and cooperation among city and county emergency services were important factors in efficient, timely services.
The Board unanimously approved a $1,965,701.12 contract with Superior Bowen Asphalt Company LLC for overlays in unincorporated Johnson County.
The Commissioners unanimously approved an agreement with Overland Park for the replacement of the Pflumm Road bridge over Coffee Creek.
County Manager Postoak Ferguson, Charlie Hunt, JCDHE, and Dan Robeson, Deputy Director of Emergency Management reported on the Tuesday evacuation of the condemned Aspen Place Apartments in Gardner (Commissioner Allenbrand’s district). The Emergency Operations Center was activated to assist the displaced citizens. Notify JoCo surveyed the individuals for special needs (medication, pets, etc.), and Emergency Management set up a resource center at The New Century Fieldhouse.
Other participating organizations include WaterOne and the Salvation Army, providing drinking water, The Salvation Army setting up a shelter with the American Red Cross supplying cots and other supplies, and Operation 10-20 setting up a pop-up warming center. The Police Department, Fire One, and others volunteered to help people move their belongings in the rain. Brian Huff, superintendent of Gardner Schools, offered transportation help, and the District Attorney’s office has set up legal assistance for the renters. Congresswoman Sharice Davids is working on permanent solutions.
The 2023-24 Community Health Assessment offered the following information:
--Three out of ten Johnson County residents who participated in the assessment say they are usually or always worried about their finances. For families with low income, the burden is even heavier; half reported frequent financial stress.
--Housing costs have increased by more than 20% since 2019. The median home purchase price now tops $368,000, and fewer than one in three homes are valued under $300,000.
--Access to affordable mental health care remains a challenge, with therapy averaging $130 per session and many providers not accepting insurance.
--33,000 people are without health insurance.
Chairperson Kelly requested a study session on this topic.
Chairperson Kelly announced that Merck Animal Health will reinvest in De Soto, Johnson County, with $900,000,000 for their animal health research facility.
Commissioner Ashcraft reported on the Investment Review Committee; the County portfolio market value is a little over a billion dollars, on forecast.
Two separate Committees of the Whole covered the Commissioner Redistricting process May 8, 2025 – Committee of the Whole Meeting with Board of County Commissioners and the Transit Strategic Plan.
May 1, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 9:30, and Commissioners recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Chairperson Kelly recognized Corrections Officer Appreciation Week. Public comments lasted about 10 minutes.
Chairperson Kelly signed an agreement with Roeland Park for the Nall Avenue Stormwater System Renewal Project.
The following items on the Consent Agenda were unanimously approved:
--The appointment of Marvin Singleton to the Johnson County Commission on Aging Advisory Board.
--A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners and Overland Park to provide co-responder mental health crisis intervention assistance services.
--An agreement with Edgerton to provide security at the community event center known as “The Greenspace” at the rate of $80 per hour when alcohol is served, per city requirement.
--A term and supply contract with GT Distributors not to exceed $400,000 annually for uniforms and other police equipment per BuyBoard contract 698-23. GT Distributors has a local storefront and has proven to be a reliable vendor in terms of quality, quantity and timeliness, and is able to fulfill orders as requested.
Because of the large volume of equipment needed, the total cost of purchases from this vendor exceeds the purchasing threshold of $150,000. No additional funding is being requested at this time.
The following items were approved on the Action Agenda:
--A request from Judd Claussen, Phelps Engineering, Inc. applicant, on behalf of EMCH Feed & Elevator Co. and BEC Land LLC, landowners, for a Revised Preliminary Development Plan for Metcalf 211, Phase III, Planned Research, Development, and Light Industrial Park District at 7400 and 7325 W 210th Street. No members of the public spoke at the Zoning Board about this item.
--A request from Judd Claussen, Phelps Engineering, Inc. on behalf of Medical Waste Services, LLC, applicant, and EMCH Feed & Elevator Co., landowner, for a Final Development Plan and Conditional Use Permits for a medical waste processing facility and outdoor storage of trucks at 7400 W 210th Street.
--A request from Judd Claussen, Phelps Engineering, Inc. applicant, on behalf of EMCH Feed & Elevator Co., landowner, for a Final Plat for Metcalf 211, Planned Research, Development, and Light Industrial Park District, at 7400 W 210th Street.
The Commissioners voted to adopt the AI Policy created with the input of about 35 employees across the County to guide the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in County operations. This is a tool to aid staff, not replace staff. The AI Policy promotes responsible AI use by adhering to the following principles:
--Transparency: Disclosing AI use in decision-making processes that materially impact public services or employees.
--Compliance: Ensuring AI technologies align with applicable policies, laws, and regulations.
Workforce Support: Enhancing human decision-making and addressing job displacement concerns.
--Accountability: Ensuring human review and oversight of AI-driven outcomes.
--Data Protection: Complying with County data protection standards and privacy regulations.
--Ethics: Upholding the highest ethical standards in AI design, implementation, and use.
No additional funding is requested.
Management Reports
Dan Roberson reminded everyone of the importance of severe weather preparedness, Notify JoCo, and Ready.gov. He also noted the new Partners in Preparedness Program. Commissioner Hanzlick asked about the availability of special notifications for people with other abilities.
The web guide to Johnson County Permits and Licenses is now available in one place on the County home page at “How do I” and through Google.
Commission Comments
Commissioner Ashcraft commended Commissioner Allenbrand for her work on consolidating Fire Districts 1 and 2. The public safety committee met April 29 and is working on Rapid SOS enhancements, preparing phone, text and email communications capacity for the World Cup event.
Commissioner Fast attended the open House for Cottonwood Springs, which accepts involuntary commitments for the County. Currently Johnson County Mental Health does not accept involuntary commitments.
Commissioner Meyers attended a meeting of the Johnson County Higher Education Research Triangle last week. KU Edwards Campus, KU Cancer Center, K-State Olathe Center and other higher education institutions are making a significant economic impact on the community through their research. There is real concern about threats to these efforts by the federal government, however.
Commissioner Hanzlick stated that the Older Americans Act is in real danger of not being funded right now, and if it is not supported the County will have to make some difficult decisions about meal assistance, rental and tax assistance, caregiver support, and other services. She reminded us that help for these things is available now at 913-715-8861, Monday through Friday, during business hours.
Chairperson Kelly shared the Board of Public Health information that the best way to prevent measles is with vaccinations, which is especially important now in light of the measles epidemic.
Commissioner Allenbrand missed last week’s meeting because of the passing of her son-in-law.
April 24, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 9:30 AM. Commissioner Allenbrand was absent.
Fentanyl Awareness Day was declared. Recent studies show that the rate of opioid overdose deaths has declined, but problems still exist. Chairperson Kelly recognized the successful County efforts in this regard.
National Community Development Week, highlighting the importance of the Block Grant program in ensuring safe, affordable housing, was recognized. (Access to emergency rental assistance, child care scholarships, sewers and more has impacted over one million Johnson countians who have benefited from this program in the last decade.)
Public Comments lasted about 10 minutes. One public commenter noted the good work of the County Election office and requested longer voting hours, more days. Another commenter objected to recycling sewer water without a statement of return on investment.
After several public commenters objected and other persons spoke in favor of the motions (the Good Faith Network and several Commissioners,) the Board approved the following additions to the Johnson County Mental Health Center:
--Three FTE Case Manager positions for the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and authorizing the reallocation and expenditure of fund balance (reserves) for FY 2025 for $222,000.
--18.0 FTE positions for establishment of an Adult Crisis Stabilization Center and authorizing the reallocation and expenditure of Mental Health fund balance (reserve authority) for FY 2025 for $1,243,000.
Commissioners Fast and Hanzlick are scheduled to speak at the Monticello Library tonight to urge the expansion of Medicaid in Kansas.
Management Reports
Susan Pekarek represented Johnson County Wastewater at the EPA WIFIA Roundtable Discussion regarding our use of WIFIA loans to save $80 million in financing costs on wastewater projects.
The County Economic Research Institute (CERI) Indicators report is available at PDF Icon April 2025 JoCo Indicators.pdf
County Manager Postoak Ferguson noted the celebration of 35 Years of support for people with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) in Johnson County.
The Board adjourned to a study session.
April 17, 2025
Chairperson Mike Kelly called the meeting to order at 9:30. Commissioner Hanzlick was absent. Public comments lasted about 15 minutes.
The Chair signed an agreement with Shawnee for improvements to Shawnee Mission Parkway from I-435 to K-7.
The Chair also signed administrative resolutions enlarging several areas of the Consolidated Main Sewer District.
The Board approved a contract with Olsson Associates, for Electric Vehicle Charging Station Pre-Construction Engineering, for $233,947.53, pending Kansas Department of Transportation process review and funding approval.
Commissioners approved changes to some vacation and sick leave policies, effective April 17, 2025.
A member of the public objected to the contract with USIC Locating Services, LLC, for utility locating services in the Consolidated Main Sewer District for $2,000,000 for a one-year term, claiming not enough bids were obtained and the work should be done in-house. Susan Pekarek explained that the county solicited bids from a large number of firms, and drilling through pipes is an increasingly significant safety issue because of all the fiber optic cable being laid. Also, in-house assignment of this work will be more expensive. The item was approved, with Commissioner Ashcraft voting No.
Erin Lynch of Frederico and Duerst presented the Legislative Update. Most of the Governor’s vetoes were overridden. Property Tax measures passed included Senate Bill 35, discontinuing the 1.5 Mill state property tax levies. Property tax cap amendments were not considered. Chairperson Kelly noted that the too-short legislative session did not allow enough time to consider unintended consequences of property tax cuts, and he asked that the County work ahead of time next year to participate in these discussions and discover and define ways to effectively fund local governments.
The preliminary Capital Improvement Project budget was presented. The CIP Committee focused on maintenance of existing capital assets and related services and re-use of existing infrastructure. Some large projects include sewers, Corinth Library construction, and New Century Air Center.
Becky Jones presented the first quarter 2025 update for State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (American Recovery Plan Act). Commissioner Meyers noted that Project 10-20 Shelter Support had not yet requested funds, which they need to do. "Someone" has been telling Commissioner Meyers that Project 10-20 has asked for their funds already, but Ms. Jones said that no request had been made and it needs to be in order to disburse the funds. All SLRF funds have been encumbered.
Commissioner Brewer praised Blue Valley CAP students who are studying “Walkability” in the community.
Commissioners Fast and Meyers toured the 80-year-old tower at the airport (built during World War 2). A new tower will be constructed after the World Cup.
Chairperson Kelly noted that volunteers make at least a $15 million impact on the community. “Happy National Volunteer Month.” He noted that the volunteer Library and Parks Boards are an important part of the community and shape the County legacy.
The Board recessed for Agenda Review, executive session and a Committee of the Whole meeting on paratransit.
Johnson County Library Board
Thursday, May 8, 2025, 4:00 pm (attended in person)
Observer: Jodi Dinkins
All board members were present, except for one member.
Two citizens spoke in the public forum time. Valerie Turner asked for support for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. Ted Fritz spoke against rebuilding the Corinth Library.
Julie Brewer, liaison, Board of County Commissioners spoke about the county budget focusing on the fundamentals. Voters will decide in November, 2025 whether the special public safety sales tax, which paid for the new courthouse and the medical facility, should be continued for another ten years.
Board Counsel Andrew Logan reported the Court has issued a temporary restraining order against the Trump Executive Order terminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
New Board member Jodie Dietz was introduced. Kelly Kilgore was reappointed to another term on the Board.
Elissa Andre, of the Communication Department spoke of the new website which will launch in August of 2025, reminding the public of community services available. A library guide is issued 4 times yearly. New library cards issued are the highest number ever.
Shelley O’Brien, Development Department, spoke of the recent volunteer luncheon. There are approximately 7,000 volunteers throughout the county and 1,000 work for the libraries.
Megan Clark, Project Coordinator for Spring HiIl and DeSoto library updates, reports that plans have not yet been finalized. The Corinth library plans are still under study.
Summer Programs include story times, book distribution, outdoor story activities, and a Summer Bash/movie at the end of summer. Also, art workshops for teens/adults will be available with coordination from InterUrban ArtHouse Curation.
To learn more, click here.
Blue Valley School Board
April 14, 2025
Observer: Ann Schuster, viewed via livestream
*Prior to the meeting, the District had announced the appointment of Dr. Gillian Chapman as the incoming Superintendent of the Blue Valley Schools. Dr. Chapman will assume the position following the retirement of Dr. Tonya Merrigan this June.
The meeting was called to order at 6:10 p.m. All Board members were present.
Board Committee reports were presented from the following committees: Finance and Operations, Student Activities, Curriculum and Instruction, Health and Wealth-Being, Communications and DEI. Included in the reports were the status of District contracts with vendors, highlights of student activities during the 2024-25 school year, curricular updates to be reviewed, the school lunch program, social/emotional skills for students seeking post-secondary work or further education, updates on the Superintendent search and progress on the District Strategic Plan. The calendar indicating days of religious observances/holidays was presented.
Dr. Merrigan recognized staff and student achievements in her Superintendent’s report, highlighting the 41 BV students receiving National Merit recognition. She also referred to the latest BV Unmuted podcast updating the recently revised cell phone policy.
The following District contracts were approved by Board:
--Straub Construction for auxiliary gym/storm shelter at BVNWHS
--US Food, Inc., for student meal services
--Envision Tech for cabling at BVWHS and BV Middle
--C and C produce for student meal services
--Renaissance/eduClimber for implementation of the Data Dashboard
--Renaissance/FastBridge for Dyslexia and Math screening
--Zello/Greenbush for online individualized plans of study for students
(services provided by the latter two are required by the State)
An update followed on the District’s student/teacher ratio and open enrollment. There will be only 63 seats available in the District open for out-of-district enrollment and those will be at Aspen Grove Elementary.
The proposed Policy 2281 regarding school and school activity access by registered sex offenders was presented to the Board, discussed, and approved with guidelines to follow shortly.
A first draft of Policy 3611.2 on the administration of medications (now to include Albuterol) was presented with a request for Board action at May’s meeting.
Dr. Merrigan gave an update on the recently completed state legislative session. No legislation for vouchers was passed and $10 million for SPED funding was allotted (not as much as hoped). More information can be found on the BV website.
Board comments followed, thanking the community members in attendance, recognizing the BV nominees for KS Teacher of the Year, kudos for the Women’s Giving Circle’s grant to the CAPS program for $15,000 and congratulations extended to the new superintendent.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m
Blue Valley School Board Meeting
May 12, 2025
Observer: Ann Schuster, attended in person
Following special recognitions of Employees of the Month and student awards prior to the start of the meeting, the public comment session was opened. Several community members requested that the Board examine the possibility of adding classes in Arabic to the curriculum. One patron spoke about the current Open Enrollment policy for out-of-district students and another complimented the Board on its dissemination of information about home firearm storage. The latter can also be found on the Safety/Security section of the District website.
The meeting was called to order at 6:08 p.m. with all Board members present.
Board Advisory Committee reports followed which focused on discussions of the District Strategic Plan, creation of a scope and sequence document for Durable Skills instruction, new and continuing initiatives for communication with District patrons, revisions of the state accreditation process for certified staff, state requirements for the Science of Reading initiative, and reviews of Title 1, 2 and 3 programs.
The Superintendent’s report included a reminder about the 5 upcoming high school/Academy graduations and celebrations of staff, student and alumni achievements.
Contract approvals were given to Delta Innovation Services, Inc. for building roofing repairs, to ImageQuest for copier services and to Apple, Inc. for the replacement of 2500 staff iPads.
Draft curriculum documents were then presented in the following areas for potential June approval: Career/Tech (9 courses), Mathematics (Accelerated MS Math 6), Science (AP Physics 1 and 2, AP Chemistry), Social Studies (International Relations and Applied Psychology) and Visual Arts (MS 5,6,7,8).
Dr. Merrigan presented the District Strategic Plan for final approval (granted) which represented the work of 38 administrative, staff, student, and community members and included the following sections: Mission Statement, Core Values, Strategic Priorities, Strategies, Action Steps and Foundational Commitments. A detailed description of these sections and other Plan information can be found on the District website.
Also approved were revisions to Policies 6343 and 6344 which address approved digital channels for staff/ student communication.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
To learn more, click here.
Shawnee Mission School Board
April 28, 2025
Observer: Karen Wiederaenders
During the public comments section of the meeting there was talk of what to do with the property formerly occupied by the Westwood View School. One mother of an autistic child told about her daughter being bullied because she can’t talk. She was hoping there would be more discussion of the needs of neurodiverse students.
The school year is winding down for the summer, but the district will still be providing free lunches to students who need them. Maintenance work will be done on many of the school buildings.
There has been no change to the property tax formula. Shawnee Mission has the lowest mill levy in the area and the highest property valuation ($6 billion) so there is some money available. That money will be used to expand early childhood education.
The legislative session was somewhat rushed so items were not discussed fully. Shawnee Mission received $10 million for special education. They had asked for $94 million. School vouchers did not advance nor did a proposal on allowing parents to choose what pronouns their children use.
There is still consternation about what may happen with federal funding but the legislature will discuss that if and when it happens.
To learn more click here.
Overland Park City Council
April 21, 2025
Observer: Jane McDowell
Mayor Skoog opened the meeting with all Councilmembers present.
The meeting included a vote to adopt the 2026-2030 Five-Year Financial Plan, Capital Improvements Program and Maintenance Program. The Program was approved by a 10-2 vote of the Council. For more information on the Plan:
https://www.opkansas.org/city-government/budget-taxes/city-budget/capital-improvements-maintenance-programs/
Mayor Skoog announced the April 21 dedication of Maple Hill Park, located at 8451 Switzer. This newest city park has pickleball courts, new parking, new restrooms, and a new playground. The park is completely solar-powered.
Council President Holly Grummert announced a visitor count of 10,000 for the April 19 opening day of the OP Farmers Market. The 2025 count showed an increase of 1,000 visitors over opening day in 2024.
The 2025 City of Overland Park Recycling Extravaganza will be held on April 26. On May 31, there will be electronic recycling and shredding. The April 26 event offers an opportunity for residents to recycle or dispose of a number of different items. There is also an opportunity to donate many types of items including clothing, furniture, bikes, books, and pet supplies. See link for the extensive list of accepted items:
https://www.opkansas.org/city-services/trash-recycling/recycling-extravaganza/
Agenda, minutes, and a video of the Mayor and Council meeting can be found at:
https://opkansas.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=9404
Overland Park City Council
May 5, 2025
Observer: Jane McDowell
Mayor Skoog opened the meeting with 3 Council Members absent.
Councilperson Holly Grummert announced that the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead is open for the season. This year the Farmstead will offer early admission, sensory-friendly days. Any individual with sensory sensitivities and their families can experience a quiet and calm environment from 8:00am to 9:00 am on the first Tuesday of each month, May through August. Tickets will be limited and Quiet Zones will be marked. For more information: https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/deanna-rose-childrens-farmstead/
City Manager Lori Curtis Luther announced that Bryan Tobin will serve as the new Director for the city's Parks and Recreation division. Mr. Toben has worked for the city for 28 years, previously serving as the Deputy Director for Parks and Recreation. After a nationwide search, the Executive Committee determined that Mr. Tobin was the best choice to serve as Director.
A lengthy Public Works Committee report to the Council can be viewed at:
https://opkansas.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=9405
Councilperson Grummert, who also serves as a member of the Mid-America Regional Council(MARC), reported that MARC has a role in administering federal funds in the region. Current federal grants for the region have been affected by pauses or discontinuations of funding. Programs affected include FEMA, Head Start, aging and adult services administered by HHS, and other federal agency programs in the Kansas City region.
To listen to the meeting discussion or view the video of the meeting, visit the City Website at opkansas.civicweb.net.
Prairie Village City Council
April 21, 2025
Observer: Eileen Marshall
The Council met in person at 5:30 p.m., with an executive session. The public portion of the meeting began at 6:00 p.m., with public viewing in person or via livestream. All members were present. Public comments lasted about 90 minutes, with 30 commenters expressing opinions on a potential new city hall, the value of LEED certification, composting, Ukraine, even MAGA.
City staff member Ashley Freburg gave a presentation on a food waste composting pilot program with KC Can, a local composting company. Under this pilot program, PV residents can sign up to deposit their household compost in KC Can’s “smart bins”, located in several locations in city parks. The purpose of the program is to divert food waste from the landfill. Council voted 8 to 4 to move forward with the pilot program with smart bins in two locations. This discussion took about one hour.
Prairie Village has been a sister city to Dolyna, Ukraine since 2008. Although Dolyna is in the west of Ukraine and not under direct attack, the city has lost hundreds of citizens to the war and is continuing to support areas that are under attack. Council considered the proposed donation of $22,900 to Dolyna for humanitarian assistance as an expression of solidarity with our sister city. Motion passed 8 to 4.
Other city business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned at 10:30.
Prairie Village City Council
May 5, 2025
Observer: Eileen Marshall
The Council met in person at 6:00 p.m., with public viewing in person or via livestream. All members were present at roll call except Mr. Reddell, who arrived later. Public comments lasted about 60 minutes, with 20 commenters expressing opinions on a potential new city hall, Ukraine, taxes, and home teardowns. Council member Gallagher spent a few minutes correcting some misinformation that had been shared by commenters.
Because the request of some residents and at least one council member has been to put the potential new city hall to a vote of the residents, the City Attorney was asked to speak to the feasibility of such a vote. The City Council has statutory authority to issue general obligation bonds in order to pay for a city hall, and therefore any public vote would be “advisory”. By statute, the Council has the obligation to make these decisions, and an election on this issue would be expensive and non-binding. The county election office has indicated that they do not support any advisory election at this time.
The city’s lobbyist presented an overview of the recently-ended KS legislative session, and the Fire Chief gave his quarterly update on the activities of Consolidated Fire District 2.
By the time the forgoing was complete, two and a half hours had elapsed.
Project timeline for the new city hall/police department renovation project was presented. Council is expected to decide whether to go ahead with the city hall project in June. Bond bids are expected in August. Tax-exempt status of municipal bonds is in danger due to politics in Washington, D.C., which would increase the interest rate on bonds used for the new city hall, by an estimated 1.5 percentage points. The financial advisor for the city noted that 80% of infrastructure spending in the US is done by state and local governments, using tax exempt bonds.
Other city business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned at 10:08.
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