Reno County Commission meeting on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

Recognition of Cindy Martin's Retirement from the Reno County Clerk's Office
Cindy began her career with Reno County in 2003 in the Reno County Treasurer's office as a Tag Clerk and then moved into the position of Treasurer's Clerk. In 2006, Cindy transferred departments to the Reno County Clerk's Office. You are invited to a Retirement Party, in honor of Cindy Martin on Friday, May 23rd, 2025, from 3- 4pm in the Conference room at the Reno County Annex.

Karen Hammersmith, Assistant Director of Clinical Services, spoke during Public Comment about the importance of vaccinating against measles. Across the country and in southwest Kansas, there has been a measles outbreak. Karen spoke to commissioners the KDHE's dashboard of measles cases in Kansas. Measles is a serious disease that spreads quickly by something as simple as a cough or a sneeze. It's one of the most contagious diseases in the world. Karen wants the public to know that they offer measles vaccinations at the Reno County Health Department or you can receive one by checking with your own health care provider. 

Because Commissioner Richard Winger was not present at the meeting, business item 8.C Solar Regulations Discussion in the Unzoned Area of Reno County, was removed from the meeting and will be rescheduled to the next meeting. 

Budget Item requests: 
Extension Office 2026 Budget Request by Pam Paulsen, Horticulture Agent and Director, K-State Research & Extension - Reno County.
Drug Court's 2026 Budget Request by, Libertee Thompsom, ISO II | Reno County Drug Court Coordinator.
Horizon's Mental Health 2026 Budget Requst by Vikki Mader, CEO of Horizon's Mental Health Center.
TECH's 2026 Budget Request presented by Lincoln Burr, CEO of TECH.

Under Business Items, Megan Davidson, Reno County Solid Waste Director, proposed moving to approve the Out of County Tipping Fee Increase to $37 per ton and also the increase for Special Waste to $43 per ton and Friable Asbestos to $63 per ton. Jim Strawn with Strawn Homes, spoke to commissioners about a housing incentive request pertaining to the Plum Creek project. Jim is asking for assistance with this development project that would help lower the cost of the lots in this Plum Creek project.

Reno County Adminisrator Randy Partington spoke about the Reno County Economic Developement Strategic Plan and he recommended to the commission that they assist Greater Hutch in the county-wide economic development strategic plan's cost by contributing $20,000 from the economic development incentives line item. Commissioner Ron Hirst moved to approve the recommendation and it was passed by all four commissioners in attendance. 

To watch the livestream of the meeting, go to https://www.youtube.com/@RenoCounty/streams
For the agenda and related items, go to https://www.renocountyks.gov/agendas