Allen County commissioners met for nearly three hours Tuesday morning, but in large measure out of the public eye due to two executive sessions.
First, commissioners met with County Counselor Alan Weber under the client-attorney privilege of the Kansas Open Meetings Act.
Then, they met for about 45 minutes in closed session with District Court Judge Dan Creitz to discuss courthouse safety issues, a topic also permitted by KOMA.
No action was taken after either session.
In public view, commissioners signed off on preliminary paperwork for construction of a bridge over Big Creek on Connecticut Road, between 4800 and 5000 streets. Cost estimate was $415,000, with the county being responsible for 20 percent (about $90,000, including some engineering costs) and Kansas Department of Transportation the remainder.
They tabled any discussion of consequence on whether to contribute further to Your Community Foundation. A week ago Gary McIntosh and Job Springer, foundation faithful, encouraged a contribution.
The county gave $50,000 in 2012 for environmental projects, and $50,000 in 2013 for public health. The first drew a 25 percent match from the Kansas Health Foundation, the health grant 50 percent from KHF.
“I’m not sure it’s appropriate to spend tax money” in that manner, said Commissioner Tom Williams.
Bill Maness, economic development director of Thrive Allen County, announced a month of Christmas activities were planned in downtown Iola, “beginning with a kick-off block party on Dec. 1.” Commissioners agreed to open the courthouse lobby to give access to restrooms.
They accepted a bid of $19,200 for 24 tires for large equipment from Allied Oil Tire Co., Joplin. The bid was the lowest of four. The tires will be used as needs arise.
County OKs purchases
