Photo Courtesy of Ryan Duey
The Board approved a $4,856.07 invoice from Mel’s Pump & Plumbing for drainage repairs on the south side of the Courthouse, to be paid from the Courthouse Maintenance Fund.
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, reported water pooling in two low spots of the new Fairgrounds asphalt lot and is awaiting a response from Schilling Construction. Norfolk Construction and Husker Steel will soon remove the bridge on Utah Road, with hopes to complete the replacement by year’s end. Another bridge project will start at Deer Trail and 3rd Road. Shomper also noted that salt spreaders need repair due to corrosion, and he is considering stainless-steel replacements.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, reported the department has completed 827 runs so far this year. One EMT was accepted into a Paramedic program, and current AEMT students are completing field internships. EMS also joined USD 379 in a successful cardiac arrest drill led by a Children’s Mercy nurse.
Dana Rickley, County Health, said the Health Fair drew 45 blood draws and provided 20 vaccines, with strong vendor participation at the Event Center. The Clay Counts Coalition’s Courageous Conversation event at the Rex Theatre drew about 79 attendees for a discussion on social media’s impact.
Alan Benninga, County Health, presented tire quotes for a patrol vehicle, and the Board approved purchasing four Eagle Enforcer A/W tires from Kansasland Tire.
Danny Mesalles, Appraiser, informed the Board and would like the public to know that data collectors will be working on property parcels throughout the county.
Region 2 Public Lands Supervisor Dustin Mengarelli and Milford Wildlife Area Manager Keaton McGuire met with the Board, along with county staff and landowners, to discuss road maintenance and right-of-way ownership around Milford Wildlife Area. KDWP officials said they cannot maintain roads they do not own and asked the County to handle upkeep. Commissioners questioned whether the County still holds those rights, noting concerns about an unsafe bridge and the potential cost to taxpayers. The Board directed Highway Administrator Bobby Shomper to contact engineering firm Schwab Eaton to research road ownership records.
