Riley County Commissioners discussed a rather controversial topic during Thursday’s meeting-the possibility of forming a Public Building Commission.
County Counselor, Clancy Holeman led the discussion, during the work session, and began by clarifying that all of the documents being presented are just drafts. None of the documents were up for approval, just discussion.
Commissioners took their time reading through the language as Holeman provided background on the topic.
Numerous members of the public have attended previous county commission meetings to express their concerns of forming a PBC, with nearly all of them opposed to the idea. Many of the individuals commented that their right to vote was being taken away.
Commissioner, Ron Wells made a few comments about negative statements being published in two local newspapers. He mentioned he hopes the public can look at the bigger picture of the PBC, instead of just focusing on one set portion of it and “harping on it” all the time.
“It’s frustrating, because do I do what’s right for me politically, or what’s right for the county? Someone commented to me that I need to do what is best for the county, and I agree”, Wells said.
A consensus was reached by the commission to eliminate articles five and six in the draft, and Holeman said he would look into whether additional verbage needed to be added.
The next public building commission discussion will take place during the commission’s meeting on the 30th of this month.
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Only one bid was submitted for the Surplus Property Auctioneering Services item. The bid came from Ruckert Auction LLC here in Manhattan. It indicated it would not exceed their 10% limit.
This bid was approved for staff evaluation and recommendation.
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Budget and Finance Officer, Johnette Shepek shared the 2014 budget brochure during her time.
Commission Chair, Dave Lewis made a few minor suggestions for changes needing to be made. The brochure was then approved by the commission.
Copies of the brochure will be available in the Manhattan Public Library, Riley County Clerk’s Office, the lobby of the commission building, and online.
