By Ryan Duey

During the March 18th Clay County Commission meeting multiple employees were honored with the Longevity Service Award for their years of employment with Clay County. Including Joseph Bork, Amber Charest, and Shelby Crimmins for 15 years of service and Richard Jarvis and Jay Knitter for 25 years of service to Clay County.

Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, reported that as part of KDOT’s strategic goal to reduce fatalities and serious injuries in Kansas, they are conducting Phase 5 of the Local Road Safety Plan for 19 counties in the State, including Clay County. The final project will provide the County with a prioritized list of safety improvement projects in the County.

Alec Trembath, EMS Director, stated that the Department has completed training with the Carter Kits for Autistic children.

Richard Avery contacted the Board by phone requesting a donation for the Wakefield High School Trap Shoot. The team has 12 students participating. Commissioners made a motion to donate $750 to the Trap shoot, passing unanimously.

Natalie Muruato, Grow Clay County Director, and Debra Peters with the North Central Regional Planning Commission presented the NCRPC Homeowner’s Program. Peters explained the program seeks to make homeownership more affordable by reducing the barriers of down payments and closing costs. The plan would provide financial incentives, loan assistance, a closing cost grant, and a fixed rate of 3% for individuals looking to buy or build a home in Clay County. The Commission voted to donate $5000, as well as a $5000 donation from Grow Clay County to help pay for this project, passing unanimously.