Photo Courtesy of Ryan Duey
During the Clay County Commissioners’ meeting on September 29th:
The 4-H Ambassadors were present to welcome the Community to National 4-H Week, October 5th-11th, 2025. The Ambassadors consisted of Aiden Argo, Jenette Begnoche, Austin Burr, Callen Burr, Ryan Geer, Slade Griffiths, Isaiah Melton, and Lila Sullivan. Judy Stitt, Ambassador Advisor, and Melissa Baxter, 4-H Project Manager, were also present for the presentation of the 4-H Week Proclamation. Stitt started with a thank you for all the support that has been provided to the 4-H Community. Baxter said there are 170 kids in 4-H and have added shooting sports this year. They are currently at 5 clubs, plus the newly added shooting club, making 6 available clubs. Commissioner Mayo read the 4-H Proclamation aloud to the room and signed the document. All the Ambassadors also signed the document, and a group photo was taken with the Commissioners.
Ryan West, Maintenance Supervisor, presented to the Board the damage to the south side of the lawn from a vendor. The vendor didn’t make an effort to contact him on placement or where it was appropriate to drive. Two sections of grass are damaged, and possibly the sprinkler system. West suggested that in the future, there should be a document for vendors to read and sign on things they can’t do on the Square to prevent further damage.
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, presented bids for two new motor graders. The Board tabled a decision for one week. Shomper also discussed asphalt work on the Morganville route, estimating $112,000 per mile. Current projects include the Broughton/Redwood Rd. area, fence survey completion, and purchase of a steel tire cage. Shomper noted only two KWORCC inspection fixes remain and reported on an informative BK Radio meeting.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, reported that the Piotique weekend went smoothly with only minor incidents; EMS had a central tent and provided demos on the ELK lift machine and CPR. Multiple vehicle issues arose, but were resolved quickly by Kansasland Tire and Glavan Ford. A Lucas CPR power supply needs replacement. Also, student shadowing and interest in medical fields continue to grow.
Jim Bogart, Emergency Manager, shared that the BK radio meeting was successful, with radios showing cost benefits, though mobile versions won’t be ready until 2027. A classroom computer will be removed since attendees use personal laptops. Bogart hosted a Fire Chiefs’ meeting, with quarterly meetings planned; the next is set for December 18 at ESA.
Dana Rickley, County Health Director, reported that a new Case Manager is working to clear the waitlist by late October if the contract is awarded. Clay Counts is hosting the teen-focused “Bandana Squad” suicide prevention program with an instructor from Lindsborg. A workforce development instructor will visit to support staff growth. Rickley also attended the groundbreaking for the new multigenerational building.
Alan Benninga, Sheriff, presented tire quotes for the Department. The Board approved purchasing from Kansasland. A Networks Plus bill for system changes was reviewed. Benninga also noted last week’s fire inspection went well.
Former camper Maddie Miller raised a safety violation issue at Clay County Parks, stating it changed the park’s environment. The Board agreed to meet with Sheriff Benninga and Chuck Arnold on the matter in person.
Rhonda Carroll, Landfill Director, reported that a truck used for Wakefield cleanup still has an oil leak. The Board instructed her to take it to Foley Equipment in Concordia with Highway Department assistance. Sierra Urban, Deputy Clerk, presented WatchGuard subscription quotes. The Board approved a 3-year contract with Networks Plus
