Photo Courtesy of Ryan Duey
The Clay County Commission approved a $3,682.49 invoice from Kansas Commerce for the Rural Opportunity Zone Partnership and a $2,600 invoice from B/J Underground for courthouse conduit boring.
The Board also reviewed a post-event report on the 15th Annual BPW Car Show, which drew 124 entries and generated significant local revenue through lodging, dining, and retail. BPW expressed appreciation for Travel & Tourism funding support and noted that Clay County students received nearly $20,500 in scholarships this year from local and state BPW foundations.
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, reported on recent maintenance work, including blading, mowing, and bridge projects, with Utah Road expected to reopen by October 31. He also received BNSF Railroad’s approval to clean the area north of Longford.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, presented snowplow bids, with the Board approving a purchase from Bruna Implement, funded through the EMS Capital Outlay Fund.
Jim Bogart, Emergency Manager, reminded the Board of the upcoming Red Cross Outreach Program on Tuesday at the Clay County Event Center. He shared that the recent KEMA meeting included an informative cybersecurity session and suggested employee training on the topic. Bogart also requested an executive session on job responsibilities; no action was taken.
Dana Rickley, County Health Director, announced that the Clay Counts Coalition hosted Can’t Look Away: The Case Against Social Media at the Rex Theatre on Oct. 21 and that a County Health Fair with a drug take-back event was held Oct. 25 at the Clay County Event Center.
Alan Benninga, Sheriff, reported the purchase of new tires for a deputy vehicle from Kansasland Tire.
Rhonda Carroll, Landfill Director, held the public hearing for the Solid Waste 5-Year Plan, joined by Project Manager Jared Brooks of Schwab Eaton, Billy Callaway, and Ned Valentine. Brooks reviewed updates extending projections 10 years ahead, noting 33 acres permitted for disposal with an estimated landfill life of eight years and a 6.9-year lifespan for the C&D site. Recycling has reduced landfill waste by 8.3% in 2024. After discussion, the Board unanimously approved and signed the updated plan.
Ron Fancella of the American Legion requested use of the Courthouse Square on Veterans Day to serve a free brunch for county veterans and their families. The Board approved the request, and Fancella thanked them for supporting Wreaths Across America.
