Board passes resolution opposing KNAHP

A resolution that states that Cloud County opposes the establishment of the Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership was approved and signed by the Cloud County board of commissioners during its regular meeting on Monday.
The Kansas Nebraska Area Heritage Partnership (KNAHP) is pursuing a National Heritage Area designation for 49 counties in north central Kansas and south central Nebraska.
The mission of the KNAHP is to connect communities and attractions in the designated area, instill pride and promote immersive experiences for residents and visitors to enhance appreciation for the region's unique landscape and nationally significant cultural history.
It states in the resolution adopted by the county commission that the citizens of this county appreciate efforts to encourage economic development, but oppose blanket designations that put dissenting private landowners in the unreasonable position of having to “opt out” of federally mandated boundaries.
Whereas, resolution states that a fundamental interdependence exists between individual liberty and the ability to own property, and the citizens of this county are very concerned that a National Heritage Area designation would deprive landowners of their ability to use and enjoy property as they see fit.
There are laws in place that contain provisions to address concerns about potential loss of or restrictions of use of private property resulting from a National Heritage Area designation.
Also during the meeting, Highway Department administrator Andy Asch reported to the board that Coughlin Company is still planning to work on the Ames/Miltonvale Road the week of June 7. The road will be closed while the work is ongoing.
Asch also discussed bridge repairs on 270th Road. The board decided not to move forward with repairs, but the bridge will be closed at this time.
Brandi Bray, Health Department administrator, reported to the board that the department had an audit last week and will have another this week.
Henry Eilert, Maintenance manager, reported that there had been a fire drill at the Courthouse last week and discussed lighting bids.
The board agreed to move forward with the Central Kansas Electric bid of $7,615.25.
Eilert also discussed getting rid of the county truck.
County Treasurer JoDee LeDuc reported to the board that her safe needed replacement parts and discussed the options. The board agreed to let her do with what she is most comfortable.
The board approved the real property relief application for the 2021 tax year for John and Sheryl Shuler for the property at 2196 North 190th Road because of a fire.
Sheila Nelson-Stout, Pat Wallerius, Kendra Krier and Susan Sprague with OCCK, Inc. met with the board and presented a budget request with an increase of three percent ($3,230.58).
It was reported that OCCK provided 1,681 rides to Cloud County residents and 58 people rode the KANCycle bicycles.
OCCK has 313 staff positions and employs 71 Cloud County residents.
Payroll deductions and benefits totaling $208,514.99 were approved by the board.
The board approved the following payroll expenses totaling $165,096.15: General Fund, $89,425.52; Road & Bridge, $43,659.14; Appraisal, $5,381.48; County Health, $17,695.37; Noxious Weed, $1,763.97; Election, $1,536.92; Solid Waste, $5,633.75.