By: Ryan Duey
Various topics were discussed during the Clay County Commissioners’ regular meeting on September 30th, including National 4-H Week, budgets, CDL testing, Piotique, sanitation reports, and more.
Numerous local 4-H Ambassadors and Judy Stitt, 4-H Program Manager, met with the Board to present the National 4-H Week Declaration. The 4-H Ambassadors introduced themselves and talked of their work in 4-H. The Board proclaimed October 6th through the 12th as National 4-H Week in Clay County, signing the Proclamation.
Keely Carlson, Adult Services Regional Contact KDOC, visited with the Board by phone to discuss parking a KDOC vehicle in the County parking lot behind the Courthouse. Carlson stated that since it’s a state vehicle it cannot be parked on private property. After discussion Commissioners made some suggestions on places where a vehicle could possibly be parked for a long period of time.
The Board approved a bill for Randy Gassman, Pottberg Gassman & Hoffman, Chartered, for the preparation of the 2025 County budgets.
Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, reported to the Board that the new Edger was shipped this week, and the new mowing tractor should be shipped in mid-October.
Alec Trembath, EMS Director, informed the Board that Piotique was very busy for the department. Trembath also stated the Health Department contacted him to see if the EMS staff would help with giving vaccines and flu shots during the County Health Fair this month.
Alan Benninga, Sheriff, informed the Board that Piotique went well for the department. He also stated that a new camera quit working in the Law Enforcement Center and will need to be replaced.
Marlene Stamm, NCK Environmental, met with the Board to give the quarterly sanitarian report for Clay County. The report stated that there were items leaking waste. Stamm also reported that she was awarded a $50,000 grant from KDHE to help low-income families replace or add a new septic system.
Chuck Arnold, Clay County Park, presented income and expenses for the Park to the Board. Arnold also informed the Board that camping rates will be increased due to the City of Wakefield raising sewer rates, to cover the costs. The Board granted permission to have 8 concrete pads poured and to purchase several new picnic tables for the campsites.
Commissioner Mayo informed the Board that he received a phone call from Linda Schwartz regarding the large pixel Christmas Tree that has been on the Courthouse Square since 2019. She stated that the tree lights are in need of repair. After speaking with the Company that manufactures the tree, she found the only solutions were to purchase a new tree or have the lights replaced on each strand. The Board made a motion to fund up to $11,000 for repairs on the tree.
