Photo Courtesy of Ryan Duey

Clay County commissioners approved a 2026 service agreement with Big Lakes Developmental Center to support local residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities, passing unanimously.

The commission also reviewed bids for a pallet of 49 bags of ice melt. After comparing quotes from Tractor Supply, Wall’s True Value, and Clay County Lumber, the board unanimously accepted the lowest bid from Tractor Supply.

Highway Administrator Bobby Shomper reported numerous road complaints following a 2-inch rainfall. He is also addressing drainage issues with the Fair Grounds parking lot and preparing to seek bids for required inspections on 199 routine-check bridges and four needing NTSM inspections. He also met with Kansas Wildlife and Parks about potential road and right-of-way vacations.

EMS Director Alec Trembath reported he continues coordinating coverage for two Cloud County townships, including Miltonvale, and is working with dispatchers on call routing. Questions remain about workers’ compensation coverage for four Miltonvale volunteers.

Emergency Manager Jim Bogart proposed a training course on identifying and interacting with individuals with mental illness. The class would be offered in two sessions for all county employees. After discussion, the Board approved the training. Bogart also reported that the large digit sign has stopped working, likely due to aging batteries, and will investigate further.

Health Director Dana Rickley noted that it is Public Health Day and shared a brief departmental history.

Marlene Stamm, NCK Environmental, delivered the quarterly sanitarian report, noting a strong workload: 23 new and 16 finalized onsite waste permits, 24 new and 26 finalized well permits, 7 real estate inspections, and 5 water tests, including 8 new dwellings. The Board also approved a $25 increase to all sanitarian permit fees.