Photo Courtesy of Ryan Duey
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, joined by representatives from Foley Equipment and Murphy Tractor. After reviewing bids for two new motor graders, the Board approved purchasing from Foley Equipment. The Highway Department recently completed the county’s asphalt project and continued routine maintenance, including crack sealing, patching, and mowing. Linda Underwood stopped by to thank the department for their work.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, reported they have made 774 runs so far this year compared to 717 in 2024. The department plans to post on Facebook this month to promote awareness and community support for upcoming events.
Jim Bogart, Emergency Manager, reported he will attend the Morganville City Council meeting on Tuesday. He reminded the public of the American Red Cross Community Disaster Outreach Program on October 21st at 6:30 p.m. at the Clay County Event Center, encouraging volunteers to participate.
Dana Rickley, County Health Director, announced a Flu and COVID Vaccine Clinic on the Courthouse Square on October 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with no appointment needed. She added that a new commercial water hydrant has been installed at the Health Department.
Alan Benninga, Sheriff, discussed maintenance issues at the Law Enforcement Center. He is seeking quotes to relocate water lines currently running above the computer room by burying them in the floor to protect equipment. The Board instructed him to gather quotes and return with them for review.
Commissioner Carlson made the motion to sign the contract between Clay County and Pawnee Mental Health Services for the 2026 year.
Grow Clay County board members Scott Leitzel and Monte Green met with the County Commissioners to discuss the renewal of the county’s contract with Grow Clay County. With the director position currently vacant, Leitzel said the organization plans to begin searching for new leadership. Commissioners emphasized that Grow Clay County must comply with the Kansas Open Meetings and Open Records Acts, as outlined in the county’s proposed $60,000 annual contract. Leitzel and Green argued that Grow Clay County is a private entity and not subject to those statutes. Commissioners countered that, since the county funds office rent, utilities, and other expenses, the group operates as an agent of the county and must provide a written accounting of its use of tax dollars. The Board stated that if Grow Clay County declines to sign the contract, it may operate independently without county funding.
Jeanna Fancella, Wreaths Across America Coordinator, met with the Board to request a donation toward wreaths for veterans’ graves at Greenwood Cemetery. Each wreath costs $17, and organizers hope to purchase over 1,200. The Board approved donating $1,190 to buy 70 wreaths, which, with bonuses, will provide 90 total.
Mike Argo, Fair Board President, reported on a successful fair and continued strong use of the Clay County Event Center. He noted that a Youth Rally with about 250 attendees is scheduled for November. Argo said the Fair Board hopes to secure a grant to replace racetrack lights with new LED fixtures. The Board advised contacting the North Central Regional Planning Commission for grant opportunities.
Kayla Wang, County Clerk, discussed the county’s 2026 health insurance rates, joined by Veronica Carmona and Sierra Urban. They reviewed the upcoming premium increases and the cost-sharing structure. The Board agreed the county will continue paying 100% of premiums for full-time employees and 63% for their dependents, and 78% for part-time employees and 53% for their dependents across all plan types.
