TOPEKA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS:

SHAWNEE COUNTY COMMISSION MEETINGS:

December 29, 2008 - Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The agenda covered 2 ½ pages since we took a break for the holidays. Public Works' requests involved a significant amount of money but the requests were approved with few questions. This seems an opportune time to lock in bids for fuel and other supplies as well as construction projects.

There appeared to be more interest in the televisions in the jail. Cable service will need to be purchased with the switch to digital services. Mr. Kline was instructed to repeat three times that the tax payers would not be paying for cable television for the prisoners.

Local golfers were at the meeting to question and comment on new regulations proposed by John Knight, of Parks and Recreation. Golfers with an annual pass did not want to be charged for playing after the annual fee was paid. The decision was deferred for a week.

County Treasurer, Larry Wilson, is searching for office space for his office and the election office and had a proposal for the commissioners but that decision was also deferred for a week. Other requests and contracts were approved with few questions.

December 18, 2008 - Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commission quickly approved a resolution that would authorize revenue bonds of up to $25 million. The hope is that Home Depot will locate a distribution center in Shawnee County.

The Parks and Recreation Department brought seven requests and contracts for approval. These ranged from a contract with Rossville for operation of the community pool to a contract for construction of the Lake Shawnee Baseball Complex. We will be seeing ads for Parrish Hotel Corporation at the Shawnee County Parks, Jim Parrish was at the meeting to present the commissioners a check.

December 15, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting started with a feel-good retirement presentation. Elaine Wilder retired from Corrections and good vibes were witnessed between Dick Kline, Head of Corrections, Elaine, and other staff members present. A short presentation by Federal Communications Commission followed explaining the switch from analog to digital television. This switch will free up air space for exclusive use by emergency services.

When the regular business got underway 14 items on the consent agenda were approved routinely. Fifteen requests and contracts were approved with little or no discussion. Several requests brought some discussion.

County Treasurer Larry Wilson proposed a new position in the treasurer's office to help customer's move through the process with fewer problems. Commissioner Buhler didn't feel a position of office manager/utility manager was necessary but it passed 2-1. The request to the Commission was a courtesy and not required since Treasurer Wilson is an elected official.

A contract for a 2% cost of living increase with the Fraternal Order of Police was approved. Commissioner Miller expressed appreciation to the FOP for agreeing to this increase considering the economic times.

A subject that we are likely to hear more about in the months to come was addressed during Administrative Communications. The January 7 th meeting with the Shawnee County delegation to the Kansas legislature was discussed and a plan was determined. Instead of a list of needs the commissioners agreed to focus on money owed (3.3 million over three years) to Shawnee county due to a computer error.

December 8, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

There were no comments on the resolution on the tax exemption for Target Corporation. There were few comments before the approval of funds and contracts for court services and the health agency.

There was some discussion on the advantages of the county owning a mobile restroom trailer as apposed to renting porta potties. Apparently, the county can lease the restroom trailers and so they pay for themselves over time.

The next morning a 3/4” headline in the Topeka Capital-Journal reported the commissioners' pay raise. Commissioner Buhler was reluctant to vote for a raise in salary that was included with the raise for the classified employees and the department heads. Ted Ensley pointed out that she could always give the money back, as he had done in the past. Vic Miller pointed out that their salaries had not been keeping up with inflation and being a commissioner was a full time job. The resolution passed 3-0.

December 4, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The department of corrections asked the commissioners for permission to solicit bids for damaged skylight. The skylights were damaged by hail and have been covered by tarps since September. After some discussion that included the age of the skylights, whether they are needed, and replacement options the commissioners agreed to accept bids.

John Knight proposed a contract with the Shawnee County Girl's Softball Association so the association would be responsible for running the program while the county would have control over the property. Previously, the association leased the site from the county for its program. The commissioners approved the contract.

December 1, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Our stressed economy is having an impact on decisions at the Shawnee County Commission meetings.

The commissioners agreed to increase the reimbursement for parking garage fees to corrections employees. The mileage rate for traveling on official business was reduced to $.47 from $.51 since the gas prices have gone down. Tom Vlach of public works reports that some bids have come in under the amount budgeted because people need work.

All resolutions and requests were approved 3-0 following questions regarding the cost to the county. There was some discussion about the proposed roundabout on NW 45 th St. and NW Fielding Rd. Tom Vlach reported that the business owners in the area would be consulted and access would be available throughout the construction. Judging from comments made, the word roundabout is obviously a red flag to elected officials.

November 24, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Some time was spent explaining the improvements made by Bailey and Bailey, Inc., a recycling salvage business. The commissioners were satisfied and approved the provisional use permit with the understanding that it would be reviewed in one year.

Good news for the county workers is that the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas 2009 health plan is the same and the fee has gone down. From this chair it appears that the Shawnee County Commissioners try hard to see county workers are compensated well considering the budget restraints.

Mike Hayden and Neil Dobler presented a power point on the plans for the Riverfront Development. The plan includes many green spaces, an amphitheater, walking/biking trail, and retail businesses to name a few. The whole plan includes land from Urish to Seward. Mike Hayden is scheduled to present the plan to LWVTSC in February.

November 20, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners made decisions regarding county funds this morning, perhaps more visible to residents of Shawnee County than maintenance agreement or replacements of computer parts. The non-union Shawnee County employees will receive a 2 percent raise. Customers of the Shawnee County Refuse Department will pay 3 percent more, but this rate may increase if gasoline prices raise again.

Also related to fuel prices, the commissioners granted Tom Vlach permission to seek a locked-in diesel fuel price not greater than $3. This diesel would be used in other county departments as well as public works. Commissioner Miller noted it was fortunate they didn't lock in a higher price earlier this year as discussed.

A committee was assigned to review applications from social service agencies for a share of money in the county budget for social service funding. The recommendations were approved. Of interest, was a young man who appeared before the commission with a request to include the Youth Court which had received no funding in the recommendation. The Commissioners seemed familiar with the Youth Court and made some effort to find $5,000 from the general fund.

Christy Caldwell presented a list of 12 transportation projects for the endorsement of the commission. Included in the list is the notorious Polk Quincy Viaduct and the US-24 corridor. Most familiar to this observer was the Willard Bridge, which I zipped over twice a day for twenty years. Apparently, if one pin goes, the bridge goes. The engineers say not to worry, they are checking the pins regularly.

November 13, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Business moved swiftly with little discussion this morning. Many requests were approved ranging from software equipment to a bid on painting golf course buildings. Discussion of a wage scale increase for county employees was deferred for one week. A resolution regarding the tax foreclosure that is related to a suit against the City of Topeka by Gene Jani was passed with no discussion.

Mike Hayden was at the meeting to present an update on Riverfront Development. However, the Powerpoint was delayed so the presentation was deferred.

November 6, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Two resolutions were approved. One for the use of credit cards by Parks and Rec and Health Agency employees and the other for a change of the speed limits on sections of 53rd and Valencia. Two contracts were approved. One for noxious weed control and one with Gianfranco Pezzino as Health Officer of Shawnee County.

When bids for a janitorial contract was discussed Commissioner Miller requested having bids cover all facilities in an attempt to keep down costs. Dick Kline, Shawnee County Corrections, asked for approval to submit bids for furnishings for the new Corrections Annex.

November 3, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting lasted a little over 4 minutes. The consent agenda was approved and two contracts for the health agency were approved quickly.

October 30, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Some time was spent on the Health Plan for Shawnee County employees. After some questions the commissioners changed the plan as proposed and agreed to pay 100 % of health care for employees and their families.

Other business of interest to tax payers concerns the settlement of the Target litigation. The disagreement revolved around the requirement of Target to employ a certain number of employees to maintain tax exempt status. Both sides reported the agreement reached was amicable. In the agreement Target will not claim $5 million already paid and there will be no requirement for number of workers.

October 27, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

H.R. Cook requested funds for equipment at the Expocentre that included: compliant louver for boiler make-up air and capacitors and contactors. These requests were approved. This observer has no idea what that equipment does. Mark Hixon, Shawnee County Appraiser, requested money for digital aerial “ortho photography.” Funds would be matched with the city and US Geological Survey.

Marsha Shehan brought the current draft of the Topeka/Shawnee County Visioning project. Commissioner Miller disputed some assumptions made in the draft. He was requesting evidence for : “We are in a downward spiral, the tax base is shrinking, those left are paying more, yet services are decreasing, and, our quality of life is diminishing.” Marsha Shehan thanked Commissioner Miller for the input and assured him the final draft would be different.

October 23, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

District Attorney Robert Hecht appeared before the commission to request a process that would require pawn shops and salvage yards to collect information about each seller. Mr. Hecht's goal is to reduce property crime in the county, which is the biggest problem at this time. Commissioners Miller reported that their jurisdiction at this time covered only the area outside the city of Topeka. There are no pawn shops, and perhaps no salvage yards, outside Topeka at this time.

October 20, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting moved along quickly with approvals for Winter Wonderland Celebration of Lights, routine business relating to a sewer district and right-of-way acquisitions. Elizabeth Ensley appeared before the commission to request funds to hire addition security because advanced voting in the county has increased substantially.

During the Administrative Communications part of the agenda Commissioner Miller expressed concern about the reported “shorted tax revenues” to Shawnee County. He will request a meeting with a group which would include the Kansas Secretary of Revenue and Kansas State Treasurer to seek a remedy for this shortfall.Return to

October 16, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The Shawnee County Commission meeting was filmed for broadcast at 7:00PM on the city channel, CITY 4.. From now on each meeting will be broadcast Monday and Thursday evenings at 7:00 PM except for the third Monday when the Planning Commission meeting is filmed live.

Anne Freeze of the health agency asked the commission to solicit bids for carpet cleaning services because, in her opinion, the current services were too high. That was approved.

Rich Davis requested $9300 for additional costs to a contruction project that was approved in June. Part of the extra costs were incurred because the contractor didn't know the new building codes. Commissioner Miller wondered why a contractor wouldn't know the building codes and the commission went into executive session. When the meeting was reconvened part of the request was denied. Can you guess which part?

October 13, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Boy Scouts were in attendance today to meet requirements for a Scout badge. When the commissioners asked what one characteristic the scouts would consider important in an elelcted official the one reply was “Thrift”. All three commissioners nodded their heads.

When Mark Hixson requested the purchase of folding table to replace old ones Commissioner Buhler suggested he look for some that were not being used in other county departments first. However, the commissioners did agree to the purchase of a personal property appraisal system to be compatible with the new computer system for the county.

The commissioners were enthusiastic about the invitation by Jeff Priesner, Topeka City Councilman, to use the city's TV crew to film and broadcast the Shawnee County Commission meetings. Commissioner Miller even offered to move the meetings to the city council chambers to make the job easier. Commissioner Buhler will send a letter accepting the proposal.

October 9, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Tom Vlach, of public works department, is getting ready for winter. At this meeting he requested actions regarding de-icing salt, sand, and liquid calcium for snow and ice control. The cost of salt has risen dramatically, due to hauling costs. Mr. Vlach reported that last year the county paid $41.51 a ton, the best price he could this year was $65.12 a ton. With the amount the county has on hand and the new purchase Mr. Vlach expects it to be sufficient for an average winter.

The commissioners are reluctant to waive the bidding process for purchases. Steve Bolton, of the refuse department, reported there was no choice because the parts he needed came from only one source.

Commissioner Buhler will represent Shawnee County as a voting delegate at the annual Kansas Association of Counties Conference.

October 6, 2008– Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This Monday's meeting was not long enough for this observer to finish her coffee. The commissioners approved contracts for “as needed' nursing services and an investigator for the coroner's office. They also approved new software for the health agency. Some time was spent congratulating Commissioner Ensley for being the best goat milker. The meeting was adjourned.

Marti Leisinger, county audit finance director, was appointed as chair of the Tax Exemption Review Committee for the application of Del Monte Foods. The commissioners also approved a contract that would provide in-home nursing services for developmentally delayed children 0-3. This contract is funded by a grant.

Mark Hixon, county appraiser, requested approval for a contract for Web hosting services. From the county's Web site people will be able to bring up aerial views of property in Shawnee County. I guess it would be useful if you want to know what is in your neighbor's backyard. It was also touted as useful for those interested in economic development. This was approved 3-0.

Some time was spent discussing the upcoming goat milking contest between the commissioners. Apparently, each commissioner will be working with a partner and would need to get the milk from the goat into a baby bottle. All this fun is for charity.

September 29, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

There was standing room only at the Shawnee County Commission meeting. Requests from the county treasurer, D.A.'s office, ExpoCentre, parks and recreation, and health agency were approved quickly. The business of a new fire station for Shawnee County Fire District #1, was addressed by haring reports from both sides of the issue. Barry Beagle, planning director and Tom Vlach, public works director of Shawnee County, gave evidence that would indicate that the sight chosen was reasonable.

The fire chief of Silver Lake gave the history of the search for an appropriate building site and the reason this location was chosen. However, the residents of the area (at least 30 in the room) were convinced that the location was not suitable for a fire station and their opinion prevailed. A vote of 3-0 was needed and Commissioner Buhler indicated she would not vote for the resolution so further discussion was suspended and it was not approved.

September 25, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting began with the honoring of two retiring county employees. These events bring forth some heartwarming stories, light-hearted jibes and a plaque. Deputy John Barber served in the Sheriff's office since 1979 and Sheila Hodges in the County Clerk's Office since 2001.

Commissioner Buhler was not at the meeting but a large bear occupied her chair. Commissioner Miller conducted the meeting with his distinctive flair. The commissioners voted to award award a bid for a bridge that is not a bridge but a culvert. They also approved requests from Anne Freeze of the health agency with few questions.

September 22, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The Downtown Optimist Club presented $1,000 to the Shawnee County Juvenile Detention Center for reading material and equipment. This Optimist organization has conducted a reading program, reading with the kids at the detention center for 10 years.

Anne Freeze of the health agency reported to the commission that the organization of health services is moving toward 'regionalization'. Many of the contracts for funding having to do with such programs as WIC, Medicare, and others with KDHE will cover more than one county.

After approving other purchases the commission approve the establishment of an EPR oversight committee to replace the transition committee which assisted with the implementation of the new ERP system from SunGard BiTech. The Oversight Committee will have nine voting members and four advisory members.

September 18, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The bidding process for trash containers was addressed under Unfinished Business. Apparently, different size containers are bid on separately and the last purchasing was done in 2006. Mr. Bolton of the refuse department told the commissioners it was confusing. They looked confused as they perused the papers he gave them but they approved the purchases.

Anne Freeze did not get approval for the contract with KDHE to monitor air quality in the county. Although she contended that the county does a better job than the state, the commissioners took no action until they received more information. The vote was 2-1, Commissioner Miller voted no, for a speaker and trainer for Workforce Development Day.

Commissioner Miller abstained from voting on the purchase of land that would provide access from East Shawnee Estates to the trail around Lake Shawnee. The commissioner lives in that area.

Elizabeth Ensley was granted travel money for out-of-state travel. Ms. Ensley is secretary of the International Association of Clerks, Recorders, Election Officials and Treasurers and this will be their planning meeting.

Under Administrative Communications Anne Freeze and Gianfranco Pizaano reported on “Flu Vaccination Focus 2009-2009 Season.” An immunization project for all the county school districts is underway by the Shawnee County Health Department. Dr. Gianfranco Pizzano, Shawnee County Health Officer, reported the need to immunize the children in the county as it has been established they are the principal carriers. The goal is to immunize at least 6,000 school aged children.

September 15, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Commissioners approved the low bid to replace the roof at the Shawnee North Community Center.

Dr. Erik Mitchell, County Coroner, came requesting out-of-state travel for an investigator and petty cash funds for his department. Both were granted. However, the bidding process for purchase of trash containers was not clear enough to the commissioners so more information will be brought to the next meeting before purchase is approved.

September 11, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The bulk of this meeting was spent discussing a proposed plan for DUI offenders. According to the plan, first or second time offenders, at the discretion of the judge, would be required to participate in the “Intervention Program” instead of being sent to jail. The rub came when commissioners were told the people would be locked in at the Ramada Inn since there is no other available facility at this time. Even though Judge Conklin spoke in favor of the program and it was reported that Wichita and Johnson housed their similar programs in motels the commissioners were not comfortable with the perception of “a weekend at the Ramada.” No action was taken.

Other less interesting requests and contracts were approved (3-0) with few or no questions.

September 8, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting lasted only 10 minutes with business taken care of with few questions. Anne Freeze, Health Agency, very often finds grant money to support her programs. This morning the commissioners approved a contract to be funded by grant money to convert electronic equipment. The commissioners approved the purchase of a Blackberry for Eric Theel, new head of Information Technology. It is interesting that Public Works couldn't find a qualified person for the Survey Technician position that was advertised. They will attempt to fill a Survey Assistant position and train that person. Last on the agenda, a resolution was approved that would allow a medical facility in a residential area. The facility would house 8 people in need of supervised nursing care.

September 4 , 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

When a department doesn't come to the commission for several months requests get back logged. This was the case when the Expocentre admimistrators requested 10 items ranging from paint sticks to insurance claims. Other requests were approved from the health department, appraiser, corrections and information technology. Approvals came to a halt when a request was made to waive the bidding process for a trenching project. If there are no time constraints the commissioners prefer to take bids.

Barry Beagle of the planning department, brought two recommendations from the planning commission. One request involved a small Medical Care Facility and the other was for a community center and fire district annex.

August 28, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This mornings county commission meeting opened with one of those heart-warming ceremonies. Commissioner Ensley was honored by the Native Americans of Shawnee county for his help in getting access to Lake Shawnee, beginning 18 years ago, for the annual PowWow.

A chunk of time was devoted to the plans for improvement of the pump system for Lake Sherwood. Engineers brought diagrams and data to enlighten those at the meeting. The engineers explained the preliminary study findings as only engineers can. The selling points seemed to be that people would no longer have backup sewer in their basements and the cost of $3,500,000, as managed, would not raise the ire of residents.

John Knight, parks and recreation, was given permission to submit a proposal to the city of Topeka for management of the Cypress Ridge Golf Course. Mr. Knight has been successful managing Lake Shawnee Golf Course and Forbes Field Golf Course and said he felt confident he could do another.

August 24, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners learned “National Seat Check Saturday” will be September 20 this year. Cindy Sleeper informed the commissioners that attaching a safety seat for children in a vehicle is not easy, hence, the need for a check.

Sometimes the county commissioners authorize a contract with towns in the county to provide services for a price. The commissioners approved a contract with Silver Lake for services from the planning department for $50 an hour.

Although they may not have the authority to act, the commissioners demonstrated sympathy for one couple's problem. In the past, residents with property along 46 th street were paid to not have access to 46 th St. in anticipation of 46 th St. being a major thoroughfare around Topeka. Whether this restriction continues to apply was left to Tom Vlach to resolve.

August 18, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The 2009 budget is still on the table at the commission meeting this morning. Some differences of opinion are cropping up between commissioners themselves and Marti Leisinger, county financial administrator. The three areas of disagreement today are the budgets for the Shawnee County District Court, the district attorney's office and the sheriff's salary. Cognizant of the fact that the tax payers do not want the taxes raised, Commissioner Miller made a point of repeating his philosophy on budget stating his goal is to appropriate only what is necessary to operate regardless of whether it increases or decreases the mill levy. Commissioner Buhler noted that taxpayers are interested in what they are required to pay. Final budget decisions are still pending.

August 14, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

It is gratifying to see democracy at work and this morning at the County Commission meeting it was working. There were three Public Hearings on the agenda. Some gentlemen from the Urish Road neighborhood came to the commission meeting to find out what the proposed resolution “was all about”. They seemed satisfied with the answers they received.

Signs used by the Parks and Recreation Department are open for bids. The advertising placed on the signs is expected to save the tax payers money.

Work on the budget for Shawnee County government continues. Department heads were at the meeting to answer questions and justify the need for the funds they needed. The corrections department wants to hire 15 more employees because the prison population is growing and they are mandated to have a certain number of personnel for the number prison residents. Overtime costs more than hiring more people. There were happy faces when Anne Freeze of the health department withdrew a request for $381,000 in tax support. Final action was not taken on the budget at this meeting.

August 7, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

In an attempt to gain some control over the time to complete construction sites, Tom Vlach, of Public Works, asked the commissioners to consider a resolution that would give the county some recourse if utilities were not moved in a timely manner. Representatives from Kaw Valley Electric Coop and Westar attended the meeting to explain how events beyond their control sometimes delayed work projects.. After some discussion it was agreed that the utilities and the county representatives would meet to work out an agreement that both sides could agree on.

The commissioners, along with the Consolidated Communications Emergency Center Management Board, agree that the CCEC be under the jurisdiction of the Shawnee County Sheriff's office. The move now needs approval of the Topeka City Council. The CCEC was previously under the direction of Bill Singer who has recently retired.

August 4, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners continue to deal with the question of how to budget for rising oil prices. County counselor Rich Eckert is still working on a plan that will apply to contracts with the asphalt providers. Commissioner Miller suggested contractors include the number of gallons of fuel they expect to use in their bids rather than a dollar amount. Also, the commissioners approved change orders for the building conversion for an extension of the Shawnee County Jail.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reported that after the Executive Session on this date the commissioners announced the hiring of Eric Theel as the new Information Technology director. For the past eight years Mr. Theel served as director of information systems for the Shawnee County District Court.

July 31, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Decisions were made regarding the animal pens, cages, and gates used at the Shawnee County Fair. The county owns that equipment but the Fair Board has possession and must maintain it and replace it.

Most of the commission meeting was spent discussing the Department of Corrections Annex change order. The commissioners nixed the proposed flagpole at $5,200. Commissioner Miller offered to donate a flag holder from Wall-Mart. There was also a disagreement between the engineers on the project and the city code inspectors regarding the smoke and fire dampers. Action regarding the dampers was deferred.

July 24, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners continue to work on budget issues. They gave approval to requests from Keep America Beautiful, Drug Court, Success by 6, Family Resource Center, Health Access Prescription Program, Safe Streets. However, the Expocentre request depends on the bed tax revenues. Marti Leisinger, financial administrator, anticipates only $50,000 from the bed tax instead of the $65,000 needed to meet requests for upgrades at the Expocentre. The commissioners voted to give any amount that comes in above the $50,000 to the Expocentre.

Other business, not related to the 2009 budget, was swiftly completed with approval of requests from public works, the health agency, parks and recreation and community corrections.

July 21, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The agenda almost filled two pages this morning because the commissioners did not have a meeting on July 17th. The first page consisted of the consent agenda, voucher payments and correction orders, all approved in minutes.

Sometimes the commissioners vote 3-0 on all items but today there were 2-1 votes twice. Commissioner Buhler wanted more information about a request to re-plat an industrial park and Commissioner Miller wasn't ready to approve a November trip for out-of-state travel.

Tom Vlach, public works, presented two items that are usually more interesting to Topeka citizens. First, he asked to prepare plans for improvement of NW 6th, US Hwy 75 to NW Button Road. If this preparation is done and the 29th and Fairlawn project does not “go” the county will not lose the money designated for the 29th and Fairlawn project. Second, Mr. Vlach requested that the speed limit on 29th be increased so there would be a uniform speed limit “across the corridor.” Both requests were approved.

July 14, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Previously, the Shawnee County Extension Council brought a budget with a 3% increase for 2009, the commissioners said try again. This morning Lori Chandler returned with a budget with a .72 increase and received a thumbs up.

The commissioners will be watching the pennies on mileage forms. A new form that required that more information be recored has been adopted.

Approval for a new mower, VRLA battery equipment and two positions was done with few questions and a 3-0 vote.

July 10, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Siren repair was on the agenda again this morning. This time $8,000 was approved for replacement of the control system.

The commissioners were happy to hear that the new computer system is on schedule to go “full system” on the financial part on August 1. Ann Freeze of the health department raised some concerns about blending the Medicare computer system with the Sun Gard so workers would not have to do double entries.

July 7, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners rejected the budget proposed by the Shawnee County Extension Council. The 3% increase was too much. Lori Chandler said she would be back later with another budget.

Dick Kline of corrections department and Sally Zeller of the Safe Streets Coalition reported on the organization and some strategies they have tried to make Shawnee County a safer place.

The development of US highway 24 has been under study by Iteris, a consulting firm from Kansas City. The commissioners were asked to join KDOT, the city of Topeka, and Topeka Planning Organization in recognizing the validity of the study, which should be complete by next February. The county is under no financial obligation to the study.

July 3, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

A representative from Faith Family Life Center was at the meeting to request permission for a fireworks display on July12th. Commissioner Miller reported that the subject of fireworks, in general, was a headache for the commission because irate citizens call commissioners about the noise the fireworks create. That said, they approved the request.

Commissioners approved project budgets for three separate road construction projects. These projects include engineering services as well as utility relocations.

Later in the meeting Commissioner Miller requested a review of the fireworks ordinance.

June 30, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

There was standing room only at the commission meeting this morning. The issue of interest was the proposed fire station at NW 46th and Landon Road. Citizens spoke to the commission, pro and con, with some strong feelings expressed. The commissioners deferred the decision for ninety days, to wait for more information on growth and traffic patterns.

June 26, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting included the approval of numerous contracts and requests. A notable proposal is the change of the Emergency Communications Center to the sheriff's office. Currently, Bill Singer is in charge of that center, plus, information technology for the county. Mr. Singer will retire in August so the change will take effect after his retirement. A decision was postponed until July 7.

Other action allowed for the final payment for the construction for the Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center. Money had been withheld until a lawsuit was settled.

June 23, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting started with the approval of the contract with Mid States Materials for building a roadway beneath SE 45 th so vehicles moving rock and earth would not disrupt traffic. The contract was amended so it was clear that the county would not be responsible for the maintenance of the roadway when construction was complete.

The commissioners decided that the three Topeka/Shawnee County Riverfront Authority appointments made by the county commissioners would be made by the representative of each county district. The member whose term expires in May 2009 will be appointed by the commissioner from district 1, the member whose term expires in May 2010 will be appointed by the commissioner from district 2, etc.

When Bill Singer announced his retirement there was some discussion whether two people would be hired to replace him. Sheriff Barta proposed his office be in charge of one job, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center. He has the support of the county commission. He is also asking for the support of the Communications Management Board.

June 19, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The lock box issue appeared one more time under Unfinished Business this morning. Shawnee County Treasurer, Larry Wilson, contends that scanning the checks takes valuable time from the treasurer's office personnel and the lock box solution was the one he favored. US Bank was proposing new technology that required the envelopes to be opened, the checks scanned and the funds would transfer electronically instead of using the external lock box. The commissioners reluctantly approved the external lock box solution in deference to the treasurer's preference.

The next business of significance was a resolution requested by citizens in Mission Township. The residents had issue with a very large truck and trailer that was parked in front of the owners home causing damage to the streets and blocking normal traffic. The commissioners agreed the truck was out of place in a residential neighborhood. The wording in the resolution was changed, at the suggestion of Commissioner Miller, so such a large truck would be out of compliance if parked on a road with 10,000 pound weight limit. The citizens from the neighborhood that attended the meeting left with smiles on their faces.

Approval of a contract for a roadway under 45 th Street during construction was deferred until Monday. Parks and Recreation department put in a request to solicit bids for maintenance and repair for several facilities. Commissioner Miller suggested the bids be taken as a package or individually.

June 12, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting was as short as they come. There were only two items on the agenda after the Consent Agenda, voucher payments and correction orders. Anne Freeze asked for approval of a contract funded by a grant. Items paid for by a grant pass easily. Then Elizabeth Ensley of the election office asked for, and received, approval to use a temp agency to add the workers needed for the coming elections.

June 9, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting began with Capital Federal Savings presenting a check for $20,000 as Title Sponsor for the fireworks display at Lake Shawnee July 4th and 5th. Capital Federal has been a sponsor since 2003.

Commissioner Ensley reported on the award the Shawnee County Department of Corrections received for partnering with Sheltered Living Inc. Inmate work crews help with the annual Festival of Trees. Commissioner Ensley's heart was warmed when he received a hug at the award ceremony.

Commissioners are also considering an increase (from 47 cents to 51 cents) in reimbursement for gas used by county employees. Before approving the increase commissioners requested the records showing which individual employees are receiving reimbursement and to what degree.

June 5, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Former Shawnee County Commissioner Mike Meier appeared before the commission this morning to accuse Commissioner Miller of questionable ethics when the county reconfigured the commission districts. Mr. Meier reported that he was looking forward to running against Commissioner Miller but they were no longer in the same district. Commissioner Miller answered the accusations with his own explanation. Words were exchanged such as: “...can tell a lie so well” and “Anybody with a brain...”. After he spoke Mr. Meier left the room in a hurry with Tim Hrenchir of the Topeka Capital-Journal, pad and pen ready, close behind.

Bill Singer, of the Information Technology department, submitted a letter to the commission announcing his retirement, effective August 1. Apparently Mr. Singer supervises two departments so there was some discussion as to whether they would advertise for one or two positions.

Dave Sterbenz, of Emergency Management, asked for funds to replace two new sirens. We learned there has been only one bidder for sirens since 1997. A new siren is $20,000.

Dick Kline of Corrections wanted the commissioners to know that Shawnee County was named in the American Jails Magazine. The article was recommending ways to recruit employees and Shawnee County was cited as a good example.

June 2, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

When a citizen enters the Shawnee County Courthouse he or she must pass through the, now familiar, security system. The sheriff's office requested that the commissioners approve a re-model, to the tune of $16,000, that would move the security station south to remedy the problem of congestion in the hallway. The commissioners did not think the problem warranted a $16,000 solution. Commissioner Buhler stated she needed more compelling evidence that the current placement causes a security problem.

Business turned contentious when Shawnee County Counselor Rich Eckert's agenda item came up. Mr. Eckert had issue with the practice of allowing a person to register his or her vehicle without having paid personal property taxes. Apparently, if a person had filed a grievance with Kansas Board of Tax Appeals that person could renew his vehicle registration. Would you believe, some people file a grievance with BOTA, register their vehicle, then BOTA dismisses the appeal because the $15 was not paid? After some lively discussion, Shawnee County Treasurer Larry Wilson said it will happen no more.

May 29, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The Shawnee County Commissioners agreed to a contract with ASA Marketing to raise private money for county park improvements. I think that means we will be looking at ads in the parks.

There was some discussion between Larry Wilson, County Treasurer, and the commissioners (mostly Commissioner Miller) on the system for collecting and depositing tax money. Mr. Wilson is in favor of a lock box service. With the lock box service checks are sent to a PO box, collected by the bank and deposited. Now county employees open the mail and deposit checks, sometimes getting behind in the process because other office business must be tended to. US Bank is offering, and demonstrated, a service they claim would be more efficient, getting funds into the bank, and collecting interest sooner. The checks would be scanned at the treasurer's office and automatically deposited without transfer of paper. To Commissioner Miller's chagrin, Mr. Wilson did not attend the demonstration given by US Bank when it was offered.. The commissioners deferred action on the issue to give the treasurer time to attend a demonstration of the new system.

The issue of county workers working at the polls for elections returned. Previously, Elizabeth Ensley had proposed establishing a system for recruiting election workers from Shawnee County employees. There were some questions from department heads and union representatives that needed to be answered before the plan was put into place. The commissioners voted to approve this resolution at this meeting. The new law allows for shifts of seven hours as well as fourteen hours so more workers are needed. The county will save money if county workers fill some of these slots.

Other purchases were approved including hardware/software for the county computer systems.

May 12, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

A request by Mission Township board members was moved to the top of the agenda. The township was requesting that a 10,000 pound load limit be imposed on sections of SW Valencia Rd and SW 53 rd because heavy trucks have been harming the road. Even though Commissioner Miller reported that he had never heard of Valencia Rd.(wishful thinking) request was approved 3-0.

Marilyn Nichols, Register of Deeds, reported to the commissioners that a scam has been operating in Shawnee County. People have been offering to obtain a copy of property deeds for the fee of $69.50. The copy can be obtained from the county office for a fee of $2.50. Television cameras were at the meeting and Commissioner Miller expressed the wish that the media would spread the word to the public.

Marti Leisinger, Audit Finance, reported that the new computer system training and implementation was on schedule. There has been testing for each phase. SunGard representatives have been prompt and efficient with help when needed.

May 5, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

A zoning change from partial residential/light industrial to complete light industrial at SW University and SW Topeka Blvd. was approved with no opposition. Also a change from VHS camera systems to DV-1 camera systems was approved for the sheriff's department.

Libby Ensley of the election office is preparing for the upcoming election by asking for approval of space and employee changes. Since the legislature approved part-time workers at the polls the workers needed jumps from 600 to 800. Ms Ensley is proposing that the workers that work 14 hour days receive $100. Other workers will receive $45.85 a day. She is also requesting that county workers be allowed to volunteer to work at the polls in lieu of their regular departments. Ms Ensley contends she would get quality workers and the county could save money. The decision was postponed until details could be worked out.

A representative of Family Resource Center came to the commission to ask for funding to continue the Immediate Intervention Program. The grant for the program was lost. The commission approved the funding based on the evidence that 90% of first time offenders do not re offend and on the letter written by the district attorney recommending the program. Money is to be taken from general expenses.

May 1, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

April 28, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This date was designated as the Public Hearing on the tax exemption for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. There were no comments at the meeting so the exemption was approved 3-0. Apparently, Seaman School District and county officials had already expressed approval.

Representatives from Cook, Flatt and Strobel gave their after-the-spring-thaw report to the commission on the pavement on Valencia Road. They reported no major changes in the road's condition and explained the two options the county had for repair of the road. One option was complete removal and replacement of the road. The other option was patching and a four inch overlay over the road. Kevin Bitner, representing the Valencia neighborhood, had also contracted a study that reported that more patching would be needed after 3-5 years if an overlay was applied. Commissioners deferred the decision until they saw the second engineers report.

A resident of the Valencia neighborhood also reported to the commission that the land occupied by Kansas Sand and Gravel was still designated agricultural land. The commissioners seemed unaware of this oversight and pledged to investigate the matter.

April 24, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

There were several different events that deviated from the routine business of the commission today. First, a claim from Martin Tractor Company for damage to a a vehicle was denied by the commission. Commission Miller suggested the matter was more appropriate at small claims court.

Second, the request for county money for the East Gate Redevelopment District was deferred until after the May 13th JEDO Board meeting. Third, Commissioner Miller expressed his displeasure to a county employee for negative comments made about the GIS system and Marti Leisinger (Audit-Finance). Fourth, Dave Sterbenz (Emergency Management) explained why the sirens did not work during a test. He assured the commissioners that the system has a built-in solution.

April 21, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners addressed some unfinished business at the beginning of today's meeting. Commissioners Buhler and Ensley approved the request for Proposals for concrete replacement at the Courthouse and Detention Facility. Commissioner Miller was opposed.

Approval of other requests came easily with the exception of the cell phones in the Health Agency. Commissioner Miller needs to be convinced when a cell phone is requested as he contends that often many are distributed but few are used. After some discussion one cell phone was approved for the Gatekeepers Program.

April 14, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The big ticket item approved by the commissioners at this meeting was the replacement of a bridge over Indian Creek on NE 43rd Street. The budget for the bridge is $651,350. The commissioners approved bids or, elected to award low bids, for eight pieces of equipment ranging from mowers to a van.

Two requests for out-of-state travel were approved. A citizen was awarded payment for damage to his vehicle but another citizen was denied the request for a waiver for the $10 replacement check fee. As my grandmother used to say, “Watch your pennies and the dollars take care of themselves.”

April 10, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Under unfinished business the commissioners continue to discuss the need for two Polk City Directories. Although, the dispatchers claim that the Internet is sometimes down Commissioner Miller feels that there are other alternatives to the Polk Directories. The decision was deferred.

A Public Hearing regarding the tax exemption for Goodyear Tire and Rubber was set for April 28.
For the rest of the meeting the commissioners approved contracts, bids and purchases.

April 7, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This Monday's meeting lasted less than 10 minutes minus the 90 minutes allowed for executive session. Dave Sterbenz will serve on the Northeast Regional Council, which distributes homeland security money. The commission also approved the use of credit cards and the filling of a vacancy in the health agency.

April 3, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commission meeting started with a big congratulations to the Topeka Road Runners for winning the South Division of the North American Hockey League. Some of the players were at the meeting as well as coaches and management.

The meeting clicked along with approval of purchases, bids and contracts. The flow was slowed when Commissioner Miller questioned the purchase of a Blackberry for the Deputy Director of Emergency Management and the purchase of two Polk City Directories subscriptions. The Balckberry purchase was approved 2-0, the directories purchase was deferred.

March 31, 2008 - Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This meeting started with a proclamation read by the Cynthia Beck, the county clerk. It had to do with the merits and accomplishments of Kansas University. Commissioner Miller seemed very pleased, Commissioners Buhler and Ensley, not so much. Chalk it up to March madness.

Under unfinished business commissioners and county treasurer indicated they could solve the issue of training county employees in new technology with a minimum of delays.

The final resolution regarding the zoning regulating the size of accessory buildings was approved 2-1 with Commissioner Ensly voting no.

Steve Bolton of the refuse department was happy to report that two Shawnee County refuse drivers received 1st and 2nd place in a driving competition.

All three commissioners supported the resolution to encourage the expansion of Amtrack services in Shawnee county.

March 27, 2008 - Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The repair of a bridge ( NE 43rd St) has been put on the fast track instead of following the policy of asking for bids. Traffic will need to be detoured from now until completion because the bridge needed to be closed immediately.

Union Pacific Railroad doesn't want to give 15 ft of property for a right-of-way nor does it want to sell the property. The commission was asked to approve a waiver so White Cloud could expand a seed warehouse without the right-of-way. Approval was given by the commission.

Training for the new computer system is underway. The treasurer's department hasn't been able to send people for each training session because of illnesses. The commissioners and County Treasurer, Larry spent some time on the problem. They voted to defer the issue until the next commission meeting.

March 24, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Tom Welch has retired from the employ of Shawnee County after 25 years. Tom worked in Emergency Management. He received a plague, handshakes and wishes of good luck this March morning.

The meeting wrapped up shortly thereafter. Fees for Sherwood Regional Wastewater Treatment System have been combined by resolution. Also approved was the purchase of software and two front loader chassis.

Even though the zoning rules proposed were less restrictive regarding the size of accessory buildings built in the county some people still were not happy with the changes. Several of those people came to address the commission. County planning director, Barry Beagle, presented the commission with regulations more appropriate to a rural setting now that the planning commissions of Topeka and Shawnee County have been operating separately. Commissioners Buhler and Miller have indicated they are in favor of the changes. Commissioner Ensley sees no need for restrictions on size. After some minor changes the final resolution will be placed on the consent agenda for the March 27 commission meeting.

March 10, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The agenda for this meeting covered two and one half pages, which illustrates how much business stacks up when one meeting is skipped. The previous Thursday meeting was not held because Commissioner Buhler was in Washington DC with other government officials asking for money from Senators Brownback and Roberts and Representative Boyda.

Requests for maintenance, travel, new employees, purchases were approved in routine fashion, with few questions. Three items of business may be of interest. First, Libby Ensley of the elections office was asking to rent more space in anticipation of the election year's activities. Second, Marti Leisinger, of the finance office was asking for a policy to be set as to who would authorize the use of the county credit cards. The third was a request that a moratorium would be placed on new software requests until the the completion of the mainframe transition. The third request met some resistance from department heads until they had reassurance from the commissioners that the regular business of the county would not be disrupted. The commissioners would be free to to approve exceptions to the moratorium if the need arises.

Updates were given to the commissioners on the status of the Mainframe transition, Sungard project, and Orion project. All were reported to be OK and on time.

March 3, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The little flap over the naming of Stover Road was resolved in a happy way. The Stover family stepped forward to report that Commissioner Miller need not fear. The Stover family is indeed law-abiding and from distinguished ancestors. Two family members attended the county commission meeting and thanked the commission for honoring them.

A bulk of the meeting was given to a power point by Barry Beagle of the planning department. Mr. Beagle explained the resolution under consideration regarding the size of accessory buildings relating to the size of the property. The current zoning is applied more to an urban setting relating the size of the accessory building to the home on the property. The vote on the change of this zoning will be taken on March 17.

Anyone entering the Shawnee County Courthouse must pass through the security apparatus. Sheriff Barta has proposed another plan for the security station at the south entrance to the courthouse. The commissioners approved the sheriff's request to solicit bids. Commissioner Miller expressed reservations that the change would warrant the expense.

Steve Bolton, of the refuse department, saw his request to purchase a warranty for a one-ton pickup hit the wall. The price of the warranty was left out of the original request. The request was deferred. We may not learn the rest of the story.

Under “Administrative Communications” Commissioner Ensley proposed that the county write a letter to the Topeka City Council with an offer to lease or manage Cypress Ridge Gold Course. Mr. Eckert, Shawnee County Counselor, noted that the letter was already written and in his file from the last time the offer was made.

February 25, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Under sheriff Scott Holladay reported to the commission that Sheriff Barta disagreed with the position taken by the Civil Service Board. The Civil Service Board has limited the sheriff's choice for promotions to the top five highest scores on a promotion examination. The commission approved the resolution to accept the ruling of the board, stating they had no authority to change it.

The commissioners also voted to give $35,000 from the general fund to Keep America Beautiful. Philicia McKee, executive director of the local Keep America Beautiful, reported that the county money was necessary to keeping the program vital.

The commissioners heard from another program dedicated to improving our quality of life. Sally Zeller, Director of Safe Streets, reported to the Shawnee County Commission of the success of their program. She reported a decrease in crime in Topeka and noted that Topeka had the lowest number of violent crimes in capital cities of 100,000. She noted that cause and effect is hard to prove but believes their proactive stance should receive some credit.

February 21, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Sometimes business flows at the Shawnee County Commission meeting and sometimes it stops where one would least expect it. No action was taken on a resolution to name a short street, NW Stover Rd. in cooperation with the city of Topeka.

Anne Freeze, Shawnee County Health Agency, would like the purchasing for the health agency to remain within that department because the agency's supplies are so different from other county purchases. There was some discussion but I know this has been resolved.

If you build in the county that doesn't necessarily mean the road will come. There is a resolution that will require anyone who builds on minimum-maintenance road to sign an understanding that the road will not receive more maintenance just because the residence is there.

February 14, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The first order of business was recognition of Jerold Binkley as a distinguished volunteer for work on the Garden at Lake Shawnee. Mr. Binkley also announced that 2008 would be the last year for the tulip display that has been open to the public at his home.

During one of the county's snow moving operations the heavy equipment damaged a county employee's vehicle in the parking lot. The commissioners approved the claim for damage to the vehicle.

After some ruminations it was decided that Commissioners Miller and Buhler would be appointed to the Corridor Advisory Committee relating to the US Highway 24. With the development of property along highway 24 across Shawnee County to Huxman Rd. KDOT a comprehensive study will be conducted.

The commissioners spent some time determining the needs, costs, and maintenance of property needed for the county fair. They were discussing goat, swine, and sheep pens as well as rabbit and poultry cages. The plan is to find an organization to be responsible for said items. Funding for new items would come from the Expo Capital Fund.

In executive session the commissioners decided to settle a medical claim brought by KU Med Center for a man shot by a Topeka police officer. The money will come from a special liabilty fund.

February 7, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

This Shawnee County Commission meeting was short and dealt with routine business. The commissioners approved the purchase of equipment for parks and recreation, weed department, refuse department and sheriff's office. KLM Marketing Solutions' contract was approved for use of Lake Shawnee for the 2008 and 2009 Topeka Tinman Triathlon.

February 4 , 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Two issues dominated the County Commission meeting this Monday morning. County residents living east of Forbes Field reported to the commission that they were not in favor of the Sheriff's proposed shooting range across the road from their homes. The decision was deferred as there seems to be some question as to whether some of the property sits on a landfill containing contaminated water.

The second issue was phase two of the discussion/debate regarding the consolidation of city and county IT departments. The commissioners had requested more specific information on the savings the city claimed the county would have. Regardless of the “new” information there seemed to be no agreement on the numbers. The commissioners stated they are not inclined to merge the two departments under the city's jurisdiction when it appears to them that the county plan is more efficient and cost effective. Commissioner Miller said he will again offer to the city an incentive of $1 million to merge the two IT departments under county control.

January 28, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The Valencia Road issue popped up again on Monday morning. Cook, Flatt and Strobel Engineers reported on the condition of the road inspection completed in July. I wasn't clear to this observer why a July inspection was presented in January. The firm recommended they revisit the road in two months because most road damage occurs after freezing and thawing occurs. The commissioners are looking for a 30 year solution because Kansas Sand has a 30-year conditional use permit and their trucks are reported to be causing the most damage to the road. Kevin Bittner, a Valencia Road resident, came to the meeting with a list of questions for Tom Vlach of the public works department. I was agreed that these questions would be addressed later. The commissioners agreed 3-0 to another review of the road in 60 days.

Expocentre maintenance to the tune of $56,000 was approved with few questions. The bulk of the expense was $39,000 to re-key the entire facility with the exception of the Manor Center.

January 24, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

The commissioners were happy to accept the offer made by Credit Unions United and Educational Credit Unions to place a scoreboard at the Lake Shawnee Baseball Complex. The credit unions will have the message center on the scoreboard to advertise. Other companys, with the exception of financial institutions, could also advertise for a fee.

Innovia Films has another year of tax exemption from the county and has increased employment to 211 above the 190 promised. Mainline Printing Inc. also received a tax exemption for 2008 on a Seven Color KBA Rapidia 1005 Sheetfed Offset Press, whatever that is.

A culvert is less than 20 feet and more than 20 feet is a bridge. This information was mentioned when requests for a bids were presented. Commissioner Buhler rejected the suggestion by Commissioner Miller that one of the spans be named after her.

Once again an effort to combine functions of the city and county seems to have bit the dust. The city-county joint planning commission was disbanded in 2003 by the action of the city council and replaced with separate planning commissions The county commissioners seem much happier with the change. City Manager Bonaparte appeared before the county commissioners to explore the possibility of establishing a joint planning commission again. Commissioners Ensley and Miller explained that they have had fewer complaints and now have some authority to respond to the complaints. The former joint planning commission was under the direction of the city. Commissioner Miller noted that the county wrote a check to the agency but had no say as to where the money went. Commissioners also intimated that the county's management of the money was more efficient. Commissioners agreed that they would consider a joint planning commission and department if it was under the direction of the county.

Commissioner Ensley reported that he attended a meeting in Lawrence regarding the open meetings act. He reported that, based on the information he received, the county officials operated well within the law.

January 7, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

Anne Freeze of the Shawnee County Health Agency brought two contracts for approval. The first had a mouthful of a title: “2007-2008 Local Health Department Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response-Pandemic Influenza Supplement” contract. This contract is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The other contract was with Kansas Children Service League enabling the two programs, “Bright Beginnings/Healthy Futures” and “Healthy Families Topeka” to work together to help at-risk families.

It appears the Topeka Tinman event will have competition from Larence as Lawrence is hosting an Ironman event the same weekend, June 15. John Knight of the parks and recreation department appeared before the commission. For permission to close areas of Lake Shawnee for special events in 2008.

Elizabeth Ensley will attend an International Association of Clerks, recorders and Election Officials meeting with the blessings of the commission. Approval for such meetings appears to be enhanced if one is able to share expenses with a roommate. Ms Ensley announced that she is throwing her hat in the ring for secretary of the group.

January 3, 2008 – Notes by Georgia Sandlin

It was a sad day at the courthouse this morning when it was announced before the County Commission meeting that Butch Felker had died.

The administrative assistants of district judges asked the commissioners for funds to join the International Association of Administrative Professionals. Commissioner Miller had questions concerning the collective bargaining aspect of the organization. After being reassured that the group was a only professional organization the money was approved.

TOPEKA CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS:

Reflections on the Proceedings of the Topeka City Council for October, November, And December 2nd
– Notes by Joe Sargent

The council did not meet on November 4th because of the elections nor November 11th, Veterans Day.

On October 7th the council considered a real estate report requesting that Sumner School, previously declared as surplus property, be disposed of by public auction. An amendment to this report , passed by the council, stated that each potential purchaser needed to provide two weeks prior to the auction a financial plan showing their capability of implementing that plan. The amended real estate report was then accepted by the council. The Topeka Capital-Journal reported on December 9th that Sumner School would be auctioned off on January 22nd.

During a radio show in October Mayor Bunten proposed an overhaul of city governance. This proposal would create a new charter ordinance that would then need to be placed on the ballot .In order to do this seven favorable votes by the ten member governing body are required. Another major change in the mayoral proposal would decrease the council to seven members with two being at-large. Further in this proposal, there is a change that would allow the council to override a mayoral veto; presently there is a lawsuit under judicial consideration to determine this very matter.

On October 21st the council passed an ordinance that allowed municipal judges to recover the costs from anyone spending in jail and attorney fees connected with the incarceration.

At the same meeting [October 21st] Topeka Fire Chief Giles received recognition from the council for being named Fire Chief of the Year by the Kansas State Association of Fire Chiefs. He neglected to mention a Topeka firefighter who had been given the highest award in the state for heroism by a firefighter in the line of duty. At the next council meeting this firefighter was recognized and he then launched into a speech against the Fire Chief. This once again showed the strained relationship between the firefighters and the Fire Chief. Giles wanted to get rid of the fire department promotion broad that recommends personnel to the Fire Chief for advancement. With this move, the firefighters contend that promotion within the ranks would be jeopardized.

The city filed a lawsuit against Shawnee County because of a resolution passed by them that would exempt under certain conditions compliance with the city’s platting power within the surrounding three mile area beyond the city limits. The reason behind the county’s decision was to end duplication of regulation.

Two projects involving tax-increment financing [TIF] have recently been under consideration. TIF bonds are paid off using the difference in receipts from property and sales taxes generated before and after improvements. The council on November 18th voted to postpone a decision to January 27th regarding development in the area of Southwest 37th and Topeka Boulevard. The College Hill developers will not meet the December 31st deadline for completion of their project. There is one last building that has not been built and because of this the city will lose revenue from this project. Adjustments were agreed upon.

Reflections on Topeka City Council for August & September, 2008
– Notes by Joe Sargent

“Budget Night 2008" was August 21st.It was an evening filled with drama; the session ended at 1:15am after a 6pm start. The city council by a five to four vote approved a 2009 budget of 185 million dollars. The property tax levy increased by 0.1 mill or $1.15 annually on a home valued at $100,000. Meanwhile, the budget removed $1.2 million dollars that city manager Bonaparte had allocated in his proposed budget for a cost of living raise for city employees as well as step increases in their salaries. Further, there was a 20 percent decrease in funding for social services and a 10 percent cut for community centers. TPAC lost its $300,000 subsidy and support for the Topeka Cemetery was reduced to $80,000 or $20,000 below its requested $100,000..

One week later the council voted in favor a proposal submitted by Mayor Bunten to move $250,000 to TPAC and $19,000to the Topeka Cemetery from the police budget, money not needed because of grounding the helicopter unit. That same night three proposals to put increases in the city sales tax on the ballot went down to defeat; at the same session the council approved an expenditure of $291,000 as their share in building a $400,000 parking lot in the College Hill redevelopment project.

In the early part of August appointments to the city planning commission occupied the council’s attention because of two resignations. The nine member board needed seven members to have a quorum. Since they lately had only six members present at their meetings, they had not been able to conduct any official business. On September 10th the council rejected the mayor’s nominee for the planning commission while electing two others to fill the vacated positions. Meanwhile, the state legislature had recently passed a law stating that a mayor’s appointee must be given a specific reason for why he or she was unfit or unqualified to serve when rejected by the governing body. If the governing body did not respond to the nomination in 45 days, then the nomination was officially considered approved.. The city administration contemplated a lawsuit to make the city exempt from this rule but apparently no further action has been taken on this matter.

The city administration continues to have a simmering problem with the firemen as evidenced by the appearance of the firemen in mass from time to time at the council meetings. The recent hiring of a deputy fire chief from outside the local ranks inflamed the continued controversy between the firemen and the fire department leadership.

With passage of the 2009 city budget city employees did not receive any wage increases. This has complicated negotiations between the city and some its employees regarding a 2009 union contract. Members of the Kansas Association of Public Employees accused the city of bargaining in bad faith and planned to file a complaint with the Kansas Public Employee Relations Board.

What to do with Sumner School continues to remain on the council’s agenda .

The Chief of Police indicated in a recent Topeka Capital-Journal article that he would like to have a police helicopter unit and provided a persuasive argument for retaining this capability.

Reflections on Topeka City Council for June & July, 2008
– Notes by Joe Sargent

The month of August is budget time; the council must finalize its budget by the August 19th meeting, which is the last regular council meeting because a certified copy of the budget must to be sent to the Shawnee County clerk by August 25th.

On July 1st city manager Boneparte presented his proposed 2009 city budget; it called for $196 million in expenditures. To meet this goal, Boneparte proposed a 2.9 mill increase in the property tax raising the mill levy from 32.4 mills to 35.3 mills. This budget also assumed a two percent increase in the city’s sales tax revenue. Other entities dependent on property taxes are Shawnee County, Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, Topeka Metropolitan Airport Authority, Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority, a school district. Of interest, the city presently derives $27.5 million from the sales tax and $32.5 million from the property tax.

The increase in budget estimate for 2009 was attributed to higher fuel costs, a 1.5% cost of living increase for city employees, and step increases for employees that had not reached the top of their pay range.

The city’s support for the Topeka Performing Arts Center amounting to $300,000 would be shifted from its tax-supported general fund to the Transient Guest Tax Fund-a change made to occupants of our hotels and motels. Representatives from the local lodging industry objected to this in public testimony on July 29th and also protested against shifting $200,000 from the Transient Guest Tax Fund to other items in the city budget such as the zoo.

During a work session prior to the council’s public business meeting on July 15th, representatives from the Topeka Chamber of Commerce suggested increasing the city’s sales tax by a half-cent from 7.45 to 7.95 percent; it was estimated that it would provide between twelve to thirteen million dollars in revenue. This money would be designated for street and sidewalk improvement, security, flood control, and improvement for downtown and areas in central and north Topeka. Two surveys by the Chamber of Commerce indicated that city residents would be in favor of the sales tax increase if used for designated purposes. This issue would need to be voted on by city’s residents and requires the council’s approval before being placed on the ballot. Various council members have stated that they need time to study the proposal.

With District Attorney Hecht’s defeat in the primary election, his lawsuit against the city to void the purchase of the Lawson Enterprise Resource Planning Center {ERPC} is in limbo since it is highly unlikely that it will proceed to trial before his departure from office. The two candidates for district attorney emerging out of the primary election stated that they would have to study the situation. In late June, the company financing Topeka’s lease-purchase of the ERPC, Municipal Services Group {MSG} stepped out as a defendant in the lawsuit. Also MSG considered the city’s agreement for the purchase of a police helicopter to be void because of the council’s approval on May 20th to annul the helicopter purchase ended the purchase contract. Further, MSG surmised the $74,000 down payment on the helicopter would be returned. In my Reflections for April and May I did not mention the council’s action to annul the helicopter purchase since it had not come to my attention.

A movement by a number of Topeka citizens is underway to replace the present form of city government with a strong mayor system. They found out that it was not possible to put the issue on the ballot by petition since Topeka exempted itself from the state law that allowed issues to be placed on the ballot directly by petition. This group is considering other options.

Other council actions were:

1. to allow lower income residents to receive monthly refunds of $9.72, which is the amount of increase for city minimum water and sewer rates approved in May.
2. on June 10th to permit Community First, Incorporated 60 more days to develop a workable plan for the use of Sumner School.
3. to pursue an appeal against an adverse outcome for the city in a lawsuit filed by Friends of Bethany Place [The council voted in August, 2007 to allow the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas to install a parking lot on land next to Grace Cathedral on Polk Street that was to be preserved under the historical preservation laws.]

July 19th the mayor vetoed an ordinance allowing the acquisition of property for the right of way of the proposed Elevation Highway through southwest Topeka. Also three traffic signal improvements projects were vetoed by the mayor because of his concern as to how much in interest that the city would incur from these projects.
Gene Jani of Brainstorm Development Gro0up LLC and Klani LLC sued for a little over $2.3 million for damages from the city in spite of the council’s favorable action in rezoning 6.55 acres at 3420 S.W. Fairlawn Road. This was the third time that this issue had been considered by the council.

Reflections on Topeka City Council for April & May
including the June 4th Meeting, 2008
– Notes by Joe Sargent

The issues surrounding the purchase of a second Robinson helicopter and the Lawson Enterprise Resource Planning System continued as hot topics during this reporting period. In addition, charges of ethic violations were brought against council members Blackburn and Preisner because of votes cast in rezoning properties owned by developer, Gene Jani. Another issue that required considerable deliberation by council members was the possible granting of a 60 day extension to Community First’s contract with the city to acquire Sumner school.

Prior to the council’s meeting on April 15th, city workers sent e-mails in support of the purchase of the Lawson Enterprise Resource Planning System [ERPS]. Actually, the city began to put the system in operation this past January. In April there were already five Lawson employees working with city staff to get the system up and running. Because of the e-mails council members Blackburn and Kennedy changed their previous votes so that the council overrode a veto by Mayor Bunten by gaining the necessary seven votes for the override. Council members Alcala and Ortiz cast dissenting votes. However, this drama did not end there. Two days later, Alcala filed suit to allow him to intervene in District Attorney Hecht’s suit which was concerned at the time only with the purchase of the helicopter. Eventually, Hecht filed an amended petition declaring the purchase of the ERPS also illegal since the council did not have the authority to override Mayor Bunten’s veto. Thus, this matter remains unresolved.

The question of the legality of the purchase helicopter remains even murkier. On April 5th the council failed to override Mayor Bunten’s veto regarding the helicopter. Hecht filed a suit on February 29th stating that the approval of a communication authorizing the helicopter’s purchase was illegal since Mayor Bunten was denied his legal rights to vote on and veto the communication. On May 6th the council tried to terminate the helicopter contract but postponed any decision for one week so that council members Haynes and Harmon, both lawyers, could work with interim city attorney Braxton Copley on the language for a resolution to terminate the contract. On May 13th the council postponed action on the resolution for 30 days.

Both of Hecht’s suits contend that the purchases violated the Kansas cash basis law. This law states that it is illegal for a governmental entity to incur debt in excess of the amount of funds actually on hand. Further, there is the question of whether the charter ordinance authorizing our present city government allows an override of a mayor’s vote.

On June 3rd the council decided that council members Blackburn and Preisner had not violated the Topeka ethics ordinance approved by the council in March 2007. At the same meeting the council reached a decision to hold a work session within a week to consider allowing Community First a 60 day extension to their contract with the city for the acquisition of Sumner school.

In April the council passed a measure increasing water and sewer rates substantially. It was determined by the Public Works Department that these increases in funding were necessary to pay for needed infrastructure work since previous water and sewer rates were not sufficient to provide adequate funds to complete this work.

All in all, December and January were months of great turmoil for our city government with the purchase of a second helicopter being the centerpiece in the ongoing dialogue between council members, the mayor, city administration, and Shawnee County District Attorney Hecht. In fact, the emotional atmosphere on January 29th in a closed door executive session became so intense that apparently Alcala and Blackburn exchanged words. This lead to city manager Bonaparte filing an ethics complaint against Alcala.

On December 5th Mayor Bunten issued a warning that he would veto allocations to pay for the purchase of the second helicopter in the city budgets after 2008. The mayor asked District Attorney Hecht to investigate if the Kansas Open Meetings Act was violated prior to the council meeting on December 4th.

The inclement weather on December 11th forced a rare cancellation of the council meeting and, of course, there were no scheduled council meetings on Christmas and New Year Days. Supposedly with only two council meetings in December, that month should have been a relatively quiet one, but not so. On December 4th Blackburn asked for a suspension of the rules so that he could introduce a communication authorizing the purchase of a second Robinson R-44 helicopter for the police. The suspension of rules passed five to three with Alcala, Ortiz, and Harmon dissenting and by a similar vote the council approved the communication to proceed with the purchase of the helicopter. Council member Haynes was absent that day.

The council on December 19th defeated a resolution to postpone the purchase of the second helicopter until District Attorney Hecht completed his investigation. Six votes were needed to pass the resolution.

Councilman Harmon on January 16th proposed banning any action by the council on any item being added to its agenda without at least 30 hours advanced notice. It did not receive a second and, thus, died. Various attempts to alter Harmon’s original proposal also died.

At the same meeting the council passed by a five to four vote Blackburn’s proposition to increase the Municipal Court fee from $5 to $10 until November 8, 2012 to raise revenues for the police equipment fund. This extra $5 would raise and estimate $250,000 over five years. Any money from the police equipment fund used to pay for the helicopter would require additional approval from the council. On January 16th Mayor Bunten issued a veto against the above proposition but on January 22nd the council obtained the six votes necessary to override Bunten’s veto.

After conducting his investigation District Attorney Hecht concluded that there was no violation of the Kansas Open Meetings Act but the actions of involved council members had opened them up to the suspicion of possible collusion. He further ruled that the leasepurchase agreement approved on December 4th was not binding since it was not approved by a majority of the governing body and also was in agreement with Bunten that the mayor had the power to veto the communication enacted on December 4th. Hecht stated that he would act to void the city’s leasepurchase agreement by February 20th unless the city administration can convince him otherwise.

Other simmering concerns for the council and the city administration are the firemen’s continued clash with the fire chief, Mayor Bunten’s proposal to raise the city’s sales tax by a half of a penny for improvements in the city’s infrastructure and the hiring of an outside firm to conduct a nationwide search for a new city attorney because off Brenden long’s recent departure from that position.