The Public Works Administrative Clerk 1 position has been open since April of 2011. Public Works Director, Leon Hobson, came before Riley County Commissioners at their Thursday meeting to ask for permission to fill the position.
Hobson expressed how much strain the absence of this position has put on the department, and they will especially feel the pinch once another member of the department takes maternity leave soon. Commissioner Karen McCulloh raised concern regarding the position in terms of money and efficiency. McCulloh recommended the commission look into cutting back, not only in the public works department, but other departments as well.
After further dispute between Hobson and McCulloh, the item was finally approved, with Commissioner Dave Lewis and Commission Chair, Al Johnson voting for it, and McCulloh voting against it.
Two other items were approved during the meeting regarding plats. Riley County Planner, Bob Isaac requested re-platting for Brandenburg and platting for Poersch. Isaac provided maps for both areas, as well as pictures, and after brief discussion, commissioners unanimously approved both items.
Riley County Agent for Health, Nutrition and Safety, Ginny Barnard cautioned the public on a recent spinach recall. The recall was sent out on Wednesday and is for Kroger brand spinach. Barnard also took the time to recap the Nutrition Program in Ogden, which featured adult and child programs that taught various food, nutrition and cooking skills.
With two MPO maps left for discussion, Riley County Planning Director Monty Wedel, reviewed both proposed maps and sharing costs. Commissioners decided they would be in support of MPO 4a during the city/county joint meeting later that evening.
Riley County Police Department Director, Brad Schoen gave a police department update. Although Schoen did not have much to report, Commissioner Lewis recommended finding time to have a ceremony for naming the law enforcement center after Commission Chair, and previous Director of RCPD, Al Johnson. Commissioners decided Schoen should be present at Monday’s meeting to further discuss dates.
A number of other individuals gave presentations and updates during the meeting as well: County Counselor, Clancy Holeman mentioned further updates on the law library, Riley County 4-H Extension Agent, Kristen Garcia shared the success of the 4-H project kick-off and mentioned National 4-H week coming up in October, and Register of Deeds, Debbie Regester gave year to date revenue.
