By: Ryan Duey
Topics discussed during the Clay County Commissioners’ regular weekly meeting on October 21st included: Guest Bed Tax, fire help, dash cameras, declarations, immunizations, community garden, Ribbon Cuttings, and more.
Joel Mason, County Attorney, was informed by the Board that they were visiting with Natalie Muruato, Grow Clay County, about the Guest Bed Tax. Mason instructed the Board on the process of changing the tax rate and said he would draft another Charter Resolution if needed.
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, reported to the Board on the work that the department did last week throughout the County. Shomper also presented a quote for an app purchase from Civic Plus. The app would allow individuals to pin locations of road or bridge issues. After discussion, the Board decided not to pursue the app due to not knowing if individuals would use it. Citizen Darren Adams made a call to Shomper thanking the department for helping with a fire last week on 7th Road. The department used a motor grader and loader to help combat the fire.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, reported that the trial period of the dash cameras is ending. If they decided to keep the cameras there would be an annual software cost. Trembath stated that they have decided not to purchase the software at this time, and will think about it next year.
Pam Kemp, Emergency Manager, informed the Board that she attended a Smokey Hill Discovery Meeting in Ottawa County. The training was on if a violent intruder entered a hospital or nursing home with medical staff. She stated the meeting went well. She also stated that the Kansas Association of Counties will be signing a declaration declaring November 5th – 11th as Operation Green Light in Kansas. They are asking individuals to shine a light of Hope & Support for Veterans during that week.
Dana Rickley, County Health Director, stated that the Health Department has been busy giving immunizations, Flu shots, and Covid shots. They have started their Health Fair at the Health Department. She also stated that the Community Garden has been very well received with lots of volunteers helping.
Alan Benninga, Sheriff, reported to the Board that they have been very busy with several different cases.
Citizen Doug Matson met with the Board to discuss a concern with trees hanging over the road on 7th Rd. and Granite Rd. that needed trimmed or taken down. The Board stated that they would relay the issue to Bobby Shomper.
Natalie Muruato, Grow Clay County Director, met with the Board to discuss several events. The Board asked Muruato if she had visited with Mr. Rothfuss at Cedar Court concerning the Guest Bed Tax. Muruato said she believed that the former Travel & Tourism Director had visited with him when they started the plan of making the change. Commissioner Thurlow stated he felt like the tax should increase in steps, not one large jump. After more discussion the Board moved to adopt a new Charter Resolution with a rate of 4%, passing unanimously. Muruato also reported that Grow Clay County had attended five different ribbon cuttings throughout the county, and has worked with 8 potential new businesses, including startup/purchase/and move. They are continuing to fundraise for the Multigenerational Life Center and are working with the State for the Word Cup 3-day itinerary for Clay County. Muruato also presented a quote for a new smartphone app. With the app, they can place events in the area so citizens can find out what’s going on throughout the County. The Board made the motion to purchase the app, passing unanimously, Commissioner Mayo abstained from voting. The Board then granted permission for Grow Clay County to use the Courthouse Square for the placement of the Santa House this year.
