ELLIS–Water issues and budget matters are the focus of tonight’s meeting of the Ellis City Council.
Council members will consider a resolution declaring a Stage 2 Water Warning. Ellis is currently in a Stage 3 Water Emergency which bans all outdoor watering.
According to City Clerk Amy Burton, the State 2 Water Warning “does allow residents to water outdoors during certain times. The council is not sure yet when those times will be,” she said.
Other water-related topics for review include the USDA Waterline Project, revisions to the city’s Code Section Chapter 15 Water Conservation and the water utility rate structure.
Adams, Brown, Beran & Ball, Chtd, will present the 2014 Audit Report and several non-profit agencies will ask for city funding in 2016.
The complete meeting agenda for Monday, June 1, is below.
AGENDA
June 1, 2015
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF ELLIS
City Hall – Council Meeting Room
BILLS ORDINANCE REVIEW WORK SESSION BEGINS AT 7:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL AND MEETING CALL TO ORDER AT 7:30 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA (if needed)
1) CONSENT AGENDA
a) Minutes from Regular Meeting on May 18, 2015
b) Bills Ordinance #1974
(Council will review for approval under one motion under the consent agenda. By majority vote of the governing body, any item may be removed from the consent agenda and considered separately)
PUBLIC COMMENTS
(Each speaker will be limited to five minutes. If several people from the group wish to speak on same subject, the group must appoint a spokesperson. ALL comments from public on agenda items must be during Public Comment. Once council begins their business meeting, no more comments from public will be allowed.)
2) PRESENTATIONS OF AWARDS, PROCLAMATIONS, REQUESTS & PETITIONS (HEARINGS)
3) SPECIAL ORDER
a) 2014 Audit Report Presentation – Adams, Brown, Beran & Ball, Chtd.
b) Fire Department Monthly Report – Chief Denis Vine
c) Foster Grandparent/Senior Companion 2016 Budget Request
d) Ellis Public Library 2016 Budget Request
e) Ellis Alliance and Chrysler Museum 2016 Budget Request – Dena Patee
f) Ellis Recreation Commission 2016 Budget Request
g) Report from Water Advisory Committee Meeting
4) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a) Discussion on USDA Waterline Project – Dave Barber and Buck Driggs
b) Consider Employee Health Insurance
c) Consider Revisions to Code Section Chapter 15 Water Conservation
d) Discussion on Water Utility Rate Structure
e) Consider Resolution Declaring Stage 2 Water Warning
5) NEW BUSINESS
a) Consider Approval of Cereal Malt Beverage License – Ellis Chamber of Commerce
b) Discuss Holiday Dumpster Policy
6) REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS
a) Administrative
1) Public Works
(1) Public Works Summer Hours
(2) Report on New Wells and Grant Funding Opportunities
(3) Update on Pool Repair
(4) Department Update
2) Police
(1) May Monthly Activity Report
(2) June Staff Calendar
(3) Department Update
3) City Clerk
(1) Schedule Capital Improvement Work Sessions
(2) Department Update
4) Attorney
5) Mayor/Council
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS
7) ADJOURNMENT
Kansas City, Mo. – The MIAA announced today the MIAA Television Network schedule for the 2015 football season.
The MIAA TV Network will travel to a different MIAA campus for 10 consecutive weeks beginning with two Thursday night broadcasts on Sept. 3 and Sept. 10. The remainder of the games will be televised at 2:30 p.m. each Saturday.
As done in previous seasons, the MIAA TV Network has left the last Saturday (Nov 14) open as a “flex” game in order to be able to select a game with significant impact in determining a conference champion and/or selection for postseason opportunities.
All 11 games will all be carried on Eagle Cable Ch. 601, KSMO-TV (Ch. 62) in Kansas City, Cox Communications KS 22, KGCS-TV in Joplin, and other outlets across the MIAA footprint. A complete listing of where the MIAA TV Game of the Week can be seen will be announced in the near future.
2015 MIAA Television Network Football Schedule Thursday Sept. 3 Fort Hays State at Central Oklahoma 7:00 p.m.
Thursday Sept. 10 Central Missouri at Emporia State 7:00 p.m.
Saturday Sept. 19 Missouri Western at Northeastern State 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Sept. 26 Central Oklahoma at Northwest Missouri 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Oct. 3 Emporia State at Lindenwood 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Oct. 10 Central Missouri at Washburn 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Oct. 17 Northwest Missouri at Pittsburg State 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Oct. 24 Lindenwood at Missouri Southern 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Oct. 31 Nebraska Kearney at Fort Hays State 2:30 p.m.
Saturday Nov. 7 Pittsburg State at Central Missouri 2:30 p.m.
Us Statehouse insiders, who don’t start to tan until the Fourth of July and are fascinated by little political gimmicks that most regular people don’t notice are…well, fascinated again.
This time, it is Gov. Sam Brownback’s new tax plan, the one that raises more than $400 million in taxes for the state budget without inconveniencing those 330,000 Kansans who make their livings by owning certain types of businesses.
That lucky 330,000 make their livings by receiving “non-wage” income from Limited Liability Corporations, subchapter S corporations or are owner-operators of their businesses, which since 2012 have been exempt from Kansas income taxes. They like it like that.
But with the budget deficit staring lawmakers in the face, and a governor who has been…a dab irrelevant in the tax-raising business this year, Brownback has come up with a plan that—good or bad—is politically fascinating.
Because this is being written before we know whether the plan is adopted or not, let’s just look at its themes.
The concept, stripped to its bones, is to raise the sales tax by half a cent on everything you can buy at retail in Kansas, plus 50 cents a pack for cigarettes—and eliminate Kansas individual income tax on about 388,000 low-income Kansans.
Political junkies can read the House and Senate reelection campaign ads already: “XXX voted to eliminate income taxes on low-income Kansans.” Does it get any better than that for a reelection campaign? Lower taxes on the poor? Almost, but doesn’t quite, bring a lump to your throat.
Or… “XXX voted to make poor people continue to pay state income taxes,” or “wouldn’t cut taxes for the poor.” Is there a candidate who wants that headline on a postcard along with a nice photo of the candidate and his/her name and party affiliation? Didn’t think so.
Now, that Brownback plan also raises the sales tax by half a cent, from 6.15% to 6.65%, but that’s not going to be noticed much by middle- and higher-income taxpayers because it’s not much of an increase, and the wealthier of Kansans spend a lower percentage of their money on food and diapers for the baby. There is no sales tax on stocks and bonds.
Now, those low-income folks who spend most of their money on food and necessities may notice that half-percent increase; the governor can say “you’re saving on that pesky income tax, so it probably equals out.”
Statisticians, or those with calculators and a little time, figure the low-income tax cut costs the state $19 million in lost revenue in the upcoming fiscal year, an average of about $48 for each of those 388,000 Kansans who won’t owe income taxes if the plan is OK’d. That $48 covers the half-cent sales tax increase (which raises about $234 million in total) for about $9,600 in purchases.
Not sure whether those who qualify for the income tax elimination which exempts from taxation the first $5,000 of income of single filers, $10,500 of single-head-of-household filers and $12,500 for joint filers, spend less than $9,600 on food and stuff which carries a sales tax. Some might, some might not.
Politically…do you vote to cut income taxes for the relatively poor, while boosting their sales taxes, along with everyone else’s? Do you use the income tax cut as a diversion so the sales tax can be raised to protect the tax exemptions for those LLC folks? Or, do you spend time explaining to the relatively poor—and no, we don’t know their party affiliations, House and Senate districts, just the counties in which they live—that they are just a diversion so those LLC folk don’t get bothered with taxes especially in the spring when they might be shopping for new boats or negotiating for lawn service?
The whole tax plan can be stretched so many ways; whether it is good public policy or not almost fades away for some politics watchers awaiting it to be used for campaigning.
And, yes, we’re thinking someone ought to get up a support group for those folks…
Syndicated by Hawver News Co. of Topeka, Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver’s Capitol Report. To learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit www.hawvernews.com.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A report on a May survey says slower economic growth likely is ahead for nine Midwestern and Plains states.
The survey report issued Monday says the overall Mid-America Business Conditions Index dropped to 50.4 last month from 52.7 April.
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss oversees the survey, and he highlighted drops in economic activity for companies linked to energy production and agriculture.
The survey results from supply managers are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests economic growth, while a score below that suggests decline.
The survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.
At 10:30 a.m. Friday, there will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the project to reconstruct 41st Street between the U.S. 183 Bypass and Hall Street.
The ceremony will take place on site along 41st Street at the stormwater detention area between Fillmore and Harrison. The Hays Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors and other local dignitaries will be present. The public is invited to attend.
Over the last 14 months, a 1-mile length of 41st from the U.S. 183 Bypass and Hall has been reconstructed to three lanes of concrete with curb and gutter, storm sewer improvements, and a 10-inch wide concrete path along the north side. This $3.8 million dollar project was made possible through the Kansas Department of Transportation T-Works Program using Federal Highway Administration funding, matched by city of Hays funds from Special Parks, Stormwater and the General Fund. The contractor was the Hays Branch of APAC-Kansas Inc., and the engineer was Alfred Benesch and Co. of Manhattan.
ELLIS–Mayor Dave McDaniel had to break a tie vote during the May 18 Ellis city council meeting regarding a resolution to end the ban on outdoor watering.
Council members Holly Aschenbrenner and Heather Luea said the triggers are met to move to Stage 2 and begin allowing outdoor watering during certain hours.
John Walz said he is not against moving to Stage 2, but would like to make sure the city has the water rate structure and lawn permit forms updated before the move.
During another water-related discussion, Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented lab results on the test wells drilled northwest of Ellis. Scheuerman reported that overall, the water quality is very good.
The complete May 18 meeting minutes follow.
ELLIS CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES May 18, 2015
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor David McDaniel called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Council members Holly Aschenbrenner, Gary Luea, Heather Luea, Jolene Niernberger, Bob Redger, and John Walz. Also present were Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman, City Clerk Amy Burton, Police Chief Taft Yates, and City Attorney Olavee Raub.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA (if needed)
None
PUBLIC PRESENT
Kelly Leister, Charlene Weber, Margie Mickelson, John LaShell, Glen Keller, Julie Kohl, John Begler, Jake Schartz, Brad Leiker, Mandy Wallgren, Nickole Byers (arrived at 8:05 p.m.), and Faith Scheck (arrived at 8:08 p.m.)
CONSENT AGENDA
Council member John Walz moved to approve the consent agenda containing the Minutes from the Regular Meeting on May 4, 2015 and Bills Ordinance #1973. Council member Bob Redger seconded the motion. The Council approved the consent agenda unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Julie Kohl spoke on the Council work session held on May 13th where Kelly Stewart and Mark Billinger from the Kansas Division of Water Resources discussed the availability of water for the City of Ellis. She asked for residents to be careful in how things are worded, as she had already heard variations on the street of information distributed at the meeting. Ms. Kohl also spoke on the vacant property next to her that should be considered a health hazard.
PRESENTATIONS OF AWARDS, PROCLAMATIONS, REQUESTS & PETITIONS (HEARINGS)
None
SPECIAL ORDER
General Government: Financial – Budget Request
Mandy Wallgren representing Options – Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, provided information regarding the Options program, and requested consideration of funding from the City for the 2016 Budget. The Council took no action and will consider the request at budget time.
Campground: Event Request
John LaShell, representing the Ellis High School Alumni Association, requested a donation of six nightly passes to the Lakeside Campground to be used as prizes in the 2nd Annual EHS Alumni Golf Tournament. Council member John Walz moved to approve the donation of six nightly passes to the Lakeside Campground for the EHS Alumni Association. Council member Holly Aschenbrenner seconded the motion. The motion carried 6-0.
Personnel: Benefits
Kelly Leister, Blue Cross Blue Shield Representative, presented a proposal to Council for a Health Reimbursement Account as an additional option for the employee’s health insurance plan. In a previous meeting, BCBS presented three non-grandfathered fully insured plans as well. The HRA would work in conjunction with one of the fully insured plans as the base plan, and then the Council could decide how claims are paid and how benefits are funded.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Water: Policy
Council discussed the current Water Conservation Plan. Doug Ginther, Kansas Division of Water Resources, has not completed the draft of the Plan discussed at the May 13th Council work session. Council member John Walz stated he would like to add to the updated Plan the current triggers involving the level of water in Big Creek, since that is an indicator of the ground water available. Mayor David McDaniel would like for the Water Advisory Committee to meet quarterly, at minimum, and maybe more if in a declared Water Emergency. The Council then discussed Code Section 15-507 regulating the hours outdoor watering is prohibited. It was the consensus of Council that it was better to have a solid block of time to allow residents to water, rather than designated times for the morning and/or the afternoon. After further discussion, it was decided to not change the prohibited hours. City Attorney Olavee Raub reviewed the Commercial Usage definition drafted by the Water Advisory Committee. The definition will be added to the draft ordinances. Council member Heather Luea then moved to direct Ms. Raub to draft a resolution moving to Stage 2 Water Warning, given the information that has been presented by the State. Council member Bob Redger seconded the motion. Upon a call for further discussion, Mr. Walz stated he is not against moving to Stage 2, but would like to make sure the City has the water rate structure and lawn permit forms updated before the move. Both Council members Holly Aschenbrenner and Heather Luea stressed the triggers are met to move to Stage 2, and the City should follow its own rules and do the citizens a service by moving to Stage 2 now. Upon a call for the vote, Council members Holly Aschenbrenner, Heather Luea, and Bob Redger voted in favor of the motion. Council members Gary Luea, Jolene Niernberger, and John Walz voted against the motion. Mayor McDaniel broke the tie with a vote in favor of the motion. Therefore, the motion carried 4-3.
Personnel: Benefits
Council member Gary Luea moved to accept the proposal from Freedom Claims Management for the United Health Care umbrella policy for the employee’s health insurance. The motion died due to lack of a second. The Council then discussed the different policies presented by both Freedom Claims Management and Blue Cross Blue Shield. The Council decided to hold a work session on May 20th at 7:00 p.m. to further review the proposals.
Water Exploration: Special Project
Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented the lab results on the test wells drilled northwest of Ellis. Overall, the water quality is very good. Mr. Scheuerman discussed possible funding available for the drilling of the wells and the transmission of the water through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the United States Department of Agriculture. Some of the paperwork for the applications may need to be completed by an engineer. Council directed Mr. Scheuerman to contact the Kansas Rural Water Association to see if they provide this service. If not, Mr. Scheuerman will obtain bids from Wilson & Co. and Driggs Design Group.
NEW BUSINESS
Streets: Event Request
Council member John Walz moved to approve the Event Request for Traffic Control, Public Property Permit Application, and Noise Permit Application for the Ellis High School Alumni Association’s activities to be held on May 23rd. Council member Holly Aschenbrenner seconded the motion. The motion carried 6-0.
Streets: Event Request
Council member Bob Redger moved to approve the Public Property Permit Application and the Event Request for Traffic Control for the annual Riverfest Fun Run sponsored by the Ellis High School Cross Country. Council member John Walz seconded the motion. The motion carried 6-0.
Industrial Development: Accounting/Billing
Council member John Walz moved to approve the Application for Local Incentives for the Seams Like Olde Times Quilt Shop. Council member Gary Luea seconded the motion. The motion carried 6-0.
Tourism: Contract
Council discussed the renewal contract with Lamar Companies for the City’s six billboards. The City provides advertising at no cost for the Chrysler Museum, Railroad Museum, and the Lakeside Campground. Council member Jolene Niernberger moved and Council member John Walz seconded a motion to approve the renewal contract with Lamar Companies. The motion carried 6-0.
Clerk: Acquisition
City Clerk Amy Burton presented two bids for the City’s municipal court software. The current software provider will stop supporting their product this fall. Although the Data Tech software package is less expensive, Court Clerk Margie Mickelson recommends the purchase of the Jayhawk court software because she feels it better meets the City’s needs and allows for future growth. Council member John Walz moved and Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded a motion to purchase the court software package from Jayhawk at a cost not to exceed $5,110.00 with funds to come from the Municipal Court department. The motion carried 6-0.
General Government: Policy
The Council suggested that when the Department Heads present 4-5 bids for consideration that the bids be summarized in a spreadsheet to help Council analyze the potential vendors and purchase.
General Government: Policy
Council member Heather Luea asked that everyone respect who is talking and to allow everyone their turn to speak. At the last meeting it was difficult to discuss an agenda item because people kept interrupting the speaker.
Sanitation: Policy
Council member Gary Luea questioned the need for the reeving cylinder for the new sanitation truck, and asked if the dumpsters needed a maximum load capacity stated in the current policy. Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman explained that currently sanitation workers are getting under the dumpster to push it into the truck to dump, or go get another piece of equipment to get the dumpster into the truck. The purchase of the reeving cylinder will allow the workers to safely empty heavy dumpsters and it’s faster than a winch. The current ordinance does not specify a weight limit on dumpsters or polycarts. Mr. Luea would like to consider adding a weight limit for trash receptacles when the policy is reviewed.
General Government: Policy
Council member Heather Luea asked if Council was interested in streaming the Council meetings for those residents that are unable to attend the meeting in person. It was the consensus of Council to have Ms. Luea look into different options.
General Government: Committee
Mayor David McDaniel reviewed the Roster of Appointments. Committee positions are on staggered terms; therefore, each year the appointments are approved by Council. Council member John Walz moved and Council member Holly Aschenbrenner seconded a motion to approve the Roster of Appointments as updated by the Mayor. The motion carried 6-0.
REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS
Public Works
Water: Repair/Maintenance
Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented the Comparative Water Report for the period March 10th through April 10th, and a spreadsheet of the Gallons per Minute for each of the wells. Mr. Scheuerman will get estimates on the cost of transducers to put in the wells. KanCap will hold a Council training session on drinking water regulations and the water system as a whole. The training will be held in WaKeeney on June 10th. Mr. Scheuerman reported that Sergeant Drilling has looked at Well #2 in an effort to reduce the amount of sand being pulled in. A portion of the sand and rust may actually be coming in from Well #13.
Personnel: Position Change
Brad Leiker has completed his probationary period as a General Public Works 1A employee. Mr. Scheuerman would like to move Mr. Leiker from the GPWE 1A position to a Sanitation position. Council member John Walz moved and Council member Bob Redger seconded a motion to approve Brad Leiker as a Sanitation employee at a probationary wage of $12.51 per hour, effective May 11th. The motion carried 6-0.
Special Highway: Repair/Maintenance
Mr. Scheuerman would like to explore the possibility of purchasing asphalt from the County in 2016. It was the consensus of the Council to continue discussing the possible acquisition with County representatives.
Sanitation: Repair/Maintenance
The forklift used at the Recycling Center is in need of repair. Council member Bob Redger moved and Council member Holly Aschenbrenner seconded a motion to approve Ellis Auto Repair to perform repairs on the forklift at a cost not to exceed $2,200, with funds to come from the Sanitation fund. The motion carried 6-0.
Police
Police Chief Taft Yates reported Officer Kirby Wechsler will graduate from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center on June 12th. The Department has been busy with ongoing investigations.
City Clerk
Water: Financial
City Clerk Amy Burton reported she has received notification from the United States Department of Agriculture that loan funds have been reserved in the City’s name for the waterline improvement project. Buck Driggs will attend the June 1st meeting to discuss the possible expansion of the project.
Personnel: Policy
Ms. Burton requested clarification from Council regarding the policy on scheduled grave closings on the weekends. Several employees feel the two (2) hour minimum should apply to each grave closed; while the Public Works Director and Clerk interpret the policy to mean each call-out, regardless of how many graves need closed. City Attorney Olavee Raub stated the policy was written to mean each call-out, not each grave closed. It was the consensus of the Council to confirm Ms. Raub’s statement and added it was at the Department Head’s discretion to schedule the time of the call-out.
Capital Improvement: Policy
Ms. Burton will get with the Department Heads to update the Capital Improvement Plan and then schedule work sessions with the Council to review.
Mayor/Council
Mayor McDaniel announced the Ellis Good Samaritan Center was recently awarded the prestigious honor of being recognized as a Five-Star facility. The Hays Daily News reported County Administrator Greg Sund proposed closing the Ellis and Victoria EMS facilities in an effort to reduce the budget deficit. Mayor McDaniel will attend the budget meeting along with the Mayor from Victoria to voice concerns over this proposal. Mayor McDaniel asked for Mr. Scheuerman to look at a tree in Memorial Park that has become a liability to the City.
Council member Gary Luea asked about a mechanic shop off of Main Street. He also voiced a formal complaint about the Council voting on something they have not had time to review. The Council makes a point to review everything else, and they need to follow their own policy.
Council member Jolene Niernberger noted that May 18th – 22nd is National Public Works Week and thanked Director Alan Scheuerman and his crew for everything they do for the City. Ms. Niernberger then gave an update on the topics discussed at the recent Governing Body Institute she attended.
Council member Bob Redger feels the Council is making progress and is taking a step forward. He would like to discuss structuring new water rates to ensure the water supply is sustainable.
Council member John Walz would like for the Water Advisory Committee to review and offer suggestions on the revisions to the Water Conservation Plan. He would also like for the Committee to review the current watering permits allowed. Mr. Walz suggested establishing a Policy Review Board to review the City policies annually.
Council member Heather Luea responded to Mr. Luea’s complaint by asking what policy was broken during the discussion on the Water Conservation Plan.
ADJOURNMENT
Council member Bob Redger moved and Council member Heather Luea seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 10:58 p.m.
Your summer plans are likely to include more entertaining, travel and outdoor excursions. But before engaging in some recreational activities, you should reevaluate your insurance risks and needs.
The following tips from the Kansas Insurance Department and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners can help make sure you are protected while you enjoy summer fun.
Pools and Trampolines
Before inviting friends and family over to enjoy your pool or trampoline, know that either may increase your insurance risk. Consider purchasing an umbrella policy in addition to your homeowners insurance to increase your liability coverage.
However, because pools and trampolines can be dangerous, some companies may not insure your property if you own them, or there may be policy exclusions for liability for related injuries. An insurance company may also deny coverage or cancel your policy if you do not follow the policy’s safety guidelines or fail to inform the company when you build a pool or purchase a trampoline.
Check with your insurance provider for rates, discounts and safety guidelines (such as installing a fence or locked gate). If you lease a property with a pool, discuss your insurance options with your agent or insurance company.
Boats
A boat insurance policy provides liability coverage if someone is injured on your boat. It also covers bodily injury inflicted on others and property damage to your boat. These policies may not be suspended during the months your boat is not in use. Read your policy carefully and speak to your agent, because some watercraft policies have minimum or fully earned premiums associated with them.
The personal property coverage of your homeowners policy may cover a small boat for $1,500 or less in physical damage. However, coverage for your liability risk is limited.
Personal watercrafts, such as jet skis, often require a separate policy that may be offered by your homeowners’ insurer. Talk with your insurance agent and get quotes from other companies to understand your options.
All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
ATVs are not covered by standard automobile insurance policies, but your homeowners policy may partially cover liability. Ask your agent if you have sufficient coverage on your homeowners policy. Also, ask about age restrictions regarding who may operate the ATV or if the policy covers friends and family.
Traveling
Whether you’re leaving home for a weekend getaway or a long road trip, be aware of what your homeowners or renter’s policy will cover while you’re gone. Typically, your homeowners insurance will follow you, protecting you even while you’re not at home.
In addition to your deductible, items will typically have a limit on things like jewelry and furs. If you’re traveling with high-priced items, it’s a good idea to get separate insurance coverage for these items. Check with your agent or company.
More Information
Contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division at 800-432-2484 for more information. Visit the NAIC’s www.insureuonline.org to learn more about the health, home, life and auto insurance options that best fit your needs.
HaysMed Convenient Care Walk In Clinic will offer school sports physicals on June 6, 12, 19 and 27.
The physicals will be conducted during regular hours on those days. Hours for the clinic are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays noon to 5 p.m.
Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to sign the consent for treatment form.
Please bring the school sports physical form with you with your portion completed and also the child’s immunization record. Parents are reminded that the school sports physical is not a well-child check.
The fee of $35 will be payable at the time of service and will not be sent into your insurance company. There is a $15 fee for each additional camp or second form that is completed.
The Rice County Sheriff reported in a media release Sterling Police requested assistance from deputies for a disturbance call at 10th and Jefferson just after midnight on Saturday.
Sterling Police attempted an arrest on Levi James Halford, 28, for related charges and driving while suspended.
Halford fled on foot and a search of the area was unsuccessful.
Just before 2 a.m., law enforcement officials received report of a silver Chevy Silverado being stolen in the area. Officers located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop that turned into a high-speed chase south into Reno County at speeds of 80 miles per hour according to authorities.
The almost ten mile pursuit ended just south of 4th Avenue on Langdon Road when the driver identified as Halford crashed into the east ditch and fled on foot.
Officers set up a perimeter and the Kansas Highway Patrol used a tracking dog but were unsuccessful in locating the suspect in the heavily flooded and wooded area. The search was suspended just before 7 a.m.
Just after 12:18 p.m. on Sunday officers with the Rice County Sheriff’s office and Sterling police acted on a tip that Halford was in the area of Broadway and Main in Sterling. They located him and after a brief foot-chase arrested him.
Halford is being held in the Rice County Detention Center on multiple charges and a no bond warrant in Barton County.
Five agencies will go before the Ellis County Commission at Monday night’s meeting to request subsidies from the county as the commission works through its 2016 budget process.
The commission will also consider advertising for bid a portion of West Old Highway 40. After construction on the east portion cost more than anticipated, the county has decided to wait on completing the second half of the project.
An engineer has proposed bidding the project in two parts. One portion would be to extend existing culverts and drainage pipes to prepare for the larger pavement improvement.
After setting up a policy that requires department heads to come before the commission before hiring any new employees, the commission will discuss a number of open positions within various departments.
The commission will also discuss a resolution setting specific days for the discharge of fireworks. County Administrator Greg Sund suggested July 2 to 4.
Monday’s Ellis County Commission meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. at the Ellis County Administrative Center.
99 KZ Country is celebrating Beef Month by giving you the chance to win a customized $200 Beef Bundle from Ellis Hometown Food Center.
Listen for the herd of cows on KHAZ weekday mornings with Theresa Trapp. That’s the cue to call 785-628-2995 to registered for the drawing. One registration per person per day. No age requirement to register.
Ellis Hometown Food Center is open seven days a week with a meat market offering everything for your family dinner, your barbeque at the lake, your graduation party and your summer backyard get-togethers. See Ellis Hometown Food Center, where they are proud to be the “Beef Month” Sponsor on KHAZ.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Several groups in Shawnee County and Topeka are working to find ways to help with an increasing number of inmates with a mental illness.
The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that the city and county are providing more thorough training for corrections specialists. The Topeka Police Department also has a designated Crisis Intervention Team officer.
A collaborative effort between the Topeka Municipal Court, the city prosecutor’s office, Shawnee County Jail and others aims to match defendants who have mental health needs with appropriate services. They’re seeking to reduce recidivism rates and help create a safer community.
Anyone who has a diagnosed, severe mental illness and is charged with a misdemeanor crime is eligible for the alternative sentencing court, which offers a probation program.
109th Dist. State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill
Troy L. Waymaster, State Representative, Kansas House District 109
TOPEKA
Tax Policy for the State of Kansas: House Substitute for Senate Bill 29
Tax policy has been the leading agenda for both chambers of the Kansas Legislature this week. On Wednesday, May 27, the Senate debated and amended their tax policy legislation, which on final action failed 1-30. On Thursday, May 28, the House was beginning debate on House Substitute for Senate Bill 29, however failed to garner the two-thirds majority in the House in order to commence debate. On Friday, May 29, House Substitute for Senate Bill 29 was placed on General Orders, along with two other tax proposals to be debated on the floor of the House.
House Substitute for Senate Bill 29 has many different tax components. The most contentious item is the business income exemption temporary repeal. This bill would repeal for tax years 2015 through 2017 a provision that was enacted by the 2012 Legislature that exempts certain non-wage business income from the individual income tax rate. The bill stipulates that all such income would become taxable at the lowest income tax rate, currently 2.7%. The exemption would be reinstated at the beginning of the 2018 tax year. Also, the loss add-back requirement implemented by the 2012 Legislature relative to certain losses would be repealed for tax years 2015, 2016, and 2017, however would be restored for the 2018 tax year.
Also with House Substitute for Senate Bill 29, there would be a freezing of the current income tax rates at the 2015 tax rate of 2.7% and 4.6%. The rate reductions would be suspended until the 2018 tax year and then would be reduced according to existing statute.
The sales tax rate would also be adjusted in this tax proposal. Currently, the sales tax rate is 6.15% and this proposal would adjust the sales tax rate to 6.45%, with the rate reducing back to 6.15% on July 1, 2018. There would be a reduction on the sales tax rate on food and that rate would be 5.9% and would not be subject to the sunset provision of the regular sales tax rate. There are also provisions of eliminating the sunset provision for the rural opportunity zones, additional sales tax provisions for Bourbon, Douglas, and Thomas counties, and clarifying property tax levying for fire districts over 15 mills.
Governor Brownback Introduces New Tax Plan
On Saturday, May 30, which was the 100th day of the 2015 Legislative Session, Governor Sam Brownback held a news conference detailing the components of his latest tax proposal. The governor focused on income taxes and consumption taxes. His tax plan would eliminate income taxes for 388,000 low-income Kansans, which would be a reduction in tax revenues of approximately $18.9 million in fiscal year 2016. His proposal would freeze the current income tax rates through the tax year of 2017 and starting in 2018 those income tax rates would see a reduction. He also introduced in his tax plan of treating guaranteed payments for Limited Liability Corporations as wage income. Consumption tax increases from the governor’s plan would be a sales tax increase to 6.65% and increasing the taxes on cigarettes by $0.50. He also suggested simplifying the tax code by eliminating various deductions. The governor’s plan would generate enough revenue to have a positive ending balance in 2016 of approximately $81 million. Each chamber is now reviewing the governor’s plan.
Liquor Law Changes
This Friday, we also debated the conference committee report on House Bill 2223, which addresses an array of changes to the liquor laws in the state of Kansas. The bill would allow drinking establishments to sell and serve alcoholic liquor infused with spices, herbs, fruits, vegetables, candy, or other substances.
The bill would ban the sale and service of powdered alcohol, would allow public venues, clubs and drinking establishments to offer automated wine devices, and allows alcoholic beverage distributor licensees to provide samples of spirits, wines, and beer, allows any person engaged in business as a Kansas vineyard with more than 100 vines to apply for an annual vineyard permit.
The bill would also allow cities to pass ordinances allowing liquor retailers, microbrewies, microdistilleries, and farm wineries to locate within 200 feet of any public or parochial school, college, or church in a commercial district. House bill 2223 would allow the Director of ABC to issue a sufficient number of temporary permits for the sale of wine and beer at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Another provision is that farm wineries would be able to apply for a sales permit at farmer’s markets that allow for the sale of wine.
The two largest changes to the existing liquor laws are the allowance of the consumption of alcohol on unlicensed premises and at the Kansas State Capitol. The first would allow alcohol to be consumed at businesses that do not sell alcohol; this is also referred to as the BYOB provision. This has been an issue throughout the state where art businesses are having painting parties and allow individuals to bring their own alcoholic beverage, namely wine. Current law states that the business needs a liquor license, even in cases where patrons bring their own alcohol. The other is allowing alcohol at the Kansas State Capitol, only for official state functions that are nonpartisan in nature, and would require the prior approval by the Legislative Coordinating Council.
The conference committee report for House Bill 2223 passed the House, 89-31.
Tax Discussions Continue and Contact Information
There have been many tax proposals discussed either in bill format or in meetings through the past couple weeks. However, it appears that none of those tax plans will be able to receive the needed 63 votes in the House and 21 votes in the Senate to pass and then go to the governor’s desk for his signature.
There has been a group of legislators in the House, including myself, that have been meeting to deliberate about tax legislation that will address the revenue shortfall that we are experiencing and, at the same time, restructure the tax policy for Kansas by adding long-term revenue stabilization. We have been meeting multiple times a day to discuss proposals and strategies. Our intent is to pass tax policy that will be greatly beneficial to the people of Kansas and create a stable revenue environment.
If you have any concerns, feel free to contact my office at (785) 296-7672, visit www.troywaymaster.com or email me at [email protected]
It is an honor to serve the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns and questions. I appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas.
Troy L. Waymaster,
State Representative
109th Kansas House
300 SW 10th
Topeka, KS 66612
ELLIS–Water issues and budget matters are the focus of tonight’s meeting of the Ellis City Council.
