The Riley County Commission conducted their first public building commission (PBC) meeting, in order to vote on the proposed bylaws.
The board previously approved the implementation of a PBC, however they left the bylaws out originally. The bylaws are not required by state mandate, but were written in order to ease some of the concerns local residents had with the formation of a PBC.
County Counselor, Clancy Holeman presented the bylaws, which the board approved unanimously.
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Inmate medical services were another major topic of discussion during the county commission’s meeting. Four options involving the 2015 services were presented by Budget and Finance Officer, Johnette Shepek.
These proposed suggestions were made by Advanced Correctional Healthcare (ACH) in order to reduce the current contract price.
In her recommendation, Shepek advised the commission move forward with the third option. This proposal would change physician services from weekly to bi-weekly. Also, ACH would take on the responsibility of providing pharmaceutical and medical services to the jail inmates. This means Barry’s Drug Center would no longer be used as the pharmacy for inmates.
Barry Sarvis, of Barry’s Drug Center, was present during the meeting to voice his concerns.
Sarvis stated he was aware of the cost savings that would benefit tax payers, but believed the quality of inmate medical care would decrease with this suggested change.
The commission thanked Sarvis for his comments, but ultimately decided to move forward with the third option as recommended. This change will provide the county with $14,930.27 in savings.
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During the press conference portion of the meeting, Commissioners, Robert Boyd and Ron Wells recognized Commissioner, Dave Lewis for his years of service to the county.
Several department heads were in attendance for the plaque presentation.
Lewis stated he was honored to have the opportunity to serve the county.
A reception honoring Lewis will be held from 2-4 p.m. in the commission chambers on Thursday.
