A simple budget amendment turned into a slightly heated debate Monday morning.
Soon after Budget and Finance Officer, Johnette Shepek began explaining the budget amendment item on Monday’s Riley County Commission agenda, County Treasurer, Eileen King took the podium. The budget amendment would be for the motor vehicle fund, which Shepek stated appears to be $74,000 over budget.
King stated these numbers were not correct, and they are actually currently under budget. King added, during her 28 years of service, she has never needed a budget amendment for this fund.
King provided her own statistics that seemed to contradict Shepek’s numbers. Under state statute, the fund does not have to be brought before the commission, but County Clerk, Rich Vargo said all funds under the county have been brought before the commission since 1998.
After sharing her information, King stated having her credibility on the line is what bothers her about this situation.
The commission did not make a decision on this matter, as they feel more information is needed first.
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Various EMS facility options were reviewed during the meeting. EMS Director, Larry Couchman began his presentation by sharing details of the existing locations.
He then segwayed into the future site options, which include-locations near K-State, the county shops, Pioneer Park, and Cico Park.
No decisions were made, as discussions are preliminary at this time. Couchman will return to the commission during a later meeting when he acquires additional details. Commissioner, Robert Boyd will also be talking to representatives from Kansas State University next month to hear their thoughts.
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The county offices will be closed Thursday and Friday, in observance of Thanksgiving.
Commission Chair, Dave Lewis said the reason for the Friday closure is because employees did not get Columbus Day off, as they were attending a training day.
