Ellis County will pursue an interlocal agreement with the incorporated communities in the county to receive all proceeds from a sales tax to fund building construction and remodeling projects. However, while that is being done, the deadline to file bills with the Kansas Legislature will pass, and therefore, the county will still pursue a dedicated sales tax bill in case an interlocal agreement can’t be reached.

The City of Hays has indicated its willingness to turn over its share of sales tax to the county for the specified projects, but County Administrator Greg Sund says he hasn’t approached the other city councils yet.

The commissioners indicated that they would pull the legislation if an interlocal agreement can be approved. Commissioner Barbara Wasinger voted against going after legislative approval and wants to only pursue the interlocal agreement.

No matter which method the county ultimately uses, the sales tax would still be put to a public vote. The date for that election has not been determined.