By: Ryan Duey
Topics discussed during the Clay County Commissioners’ regular weekly meeting on October 28th included: flower beds at the Courthouse, road signs, Child Passenger Technicians, Transient Guest Tax, and more.
The Board received a request for the approval of a mural to be painted in Clay County Park. The Board granted permission for the mural.
Josh Thurlow, Thurlow Landscaping, recommended to the Board the placement of a bed irrigation system in the flower beds of the Courthouse, County Health Department, and ESA. The Board asked Thurlow to put together quotes to be presented at a later date.
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, stated that the Department worked on several projects throughout the County. He also stated that several road signs have been stolen again, which is a costly expense to the County.
Joel Mason, County Attorney, presented a Charter Resolution 2024-11. Effective April 1st, 2025, the Transient Guest Tax rate shall be levied to 4%. The motion was made to raise the Transient Guest Tax to 4% for Clay County, passing unanimously.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, informed the Board that they have been very busy at the Department the last few weeks. EMS is currently at 805 runs or transfers for the year. Trembath also reported that they now have Child Passenger Technicians who are certified in transporting children and car seat safety.
Dana Rickley, County Health Director, presented two quotes for an alarm to be placed on the vaccine refrigerator. The Board granted permission to purchase the alarm. Rickley also stated that she will be applying for a Risk Avoidance Grant through KCAMP which will help cover the cost of the alarm. The Health Department has temporarily stopped answering phone calls at 4:30 p.m. due to staffing shortages.
The Board made the motion to re-appoint Holly Chestnut for an additional term on the Pawnee Mental Health Board, passing unanimously.
Alan Benninga, Sheriff, reported to the Board that the Department recently used the drone on a couple of incidents, and it has been very helpful and is a great benefit for the Department. The Board signed an approval for three Corrections Officers to attend a training in Saline County.
Rhonda Carroll, Landfill Director, informed the Board that KDHE has requested for the Landfill to be surveyed for the height of the cell tower that is currently being used. A motion was made to have Schwab Eaton provide the surveys, not to exceed $10,000.
Christine Swaim, County Treasurer, asked permission to close the afternoon of December 31st to start the end-of-the-year process in her office. During this time there will be no Motor Vehicle registrations, renewals, etc. processed during this day. Swaim stated that the County Clerk’s office, County Appraiser’s office, and Registrar of Deeds office, will also close at noon for the year-end process. The Board granted permission for the offices to close at noon on December 31st.
