Connie faces tight deadlines for proposed rate mailings and public hearings

The Chase County Commissioners held a personal meeting on July 14, 2025, to discuss various budgetary matters and upcoming deadlines. The meeting began with a focus on the timeline for publishing the proposed rates and regulations (R&R), which is constrained by state-imposed deadlines. Connie, a key participant, noted that the publication must occur by July 20, with the R&R hearing scheduled between August 15 and September 20, leading to a logical meeting date of September 15.

The discussion then shifted to the preliminary assessed valuations for the county, which have increased from $68 million last year to $71 million this year. This rise is attributed to property improvements rather than new developments. Commissioners expressed the need for detailed breakdowns of these valuations to better understand the contributing factors.

As the meeting progressed, the focus turned to the general fund budget. The commissioners reviewed various departmental proposals, including the sheriff's budget, which included a request for $757,099. Adjustments were made to reflect changes in expenses and income, particularly concerning noxious weed management. The commissioners agreed to increase the projected income from chemical sales related to weed management from $60,000 to $72,000, based on anticipated sales at 80% of cost.

The meeting concluded with discussions on employee benefits and health insurance reserves, indicating a stable financial outlook despite some increases in costs. The commissioners emphasized the importance of transparency in budgeting and the need for clear communication regarding future expenses and revenues.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the challenges of adhering to tight deadlines while managing budgetary constraints and the necessity for detailed financial planning as the county prepares for the upcoming fiscal year.