Chase County Commission Approves Forensic Audit Amid Treasurer's Office Irregularities

The Chase County Commissioners convened on August 30, 2025, in the Personal Meeting Room to discuss several pressing issues, primarily focusing on equipment needs for road and bridge maintenance, as well as the potential for a significant bridge investment grant.

The meeting began with a discussion about the current state of equipment used for road and bridge maintenance. It was noted that the county's mower is broken, and there is a lack of essential tools such as a grapple bucket and a gravel bucket. The commissioners reviewed past expenditures on equipment repairs, particularly a heavy-duty brush mower that has proven costly to maintain. The consensus was to seek replacement prices for necessary equipment, including a new grapple bucket and mower attachments, with a focus on durability and cost-effectiveness.

Following the equipment discussion, the commissioners turned their attention to a bridge investment program grant that could provide up to $100 million for bridge projects. Brandy Sutherland from Valley Consultants presented the opportunity, emphasizing the need for improvements on Middle Creek Road. The grant would cover design and construction costs, with a local match requirement that could be reduced through the Build Kansas Fund. The commissioners expressed support for pursuing the grant, recognizing the economic and safety benefits of upgrading the county's bridges.

In addition to equipment and grant discussions, the meeting addressed the need for a forensic audit of the county treasurer's office due to identified irregularities in financial records. The sheriff reported that a third-party audit, estimated to cost between $20,000 and $25,000, is necessary to investigate potential mismanagement of funds. The commissioners were asked to approve funding for this audit and grant access to bank records for the investigation.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the county's proactive approach to addressing equipment deficiencies, pursuing funding for infrastructure improvements, and ensuring financial accountability. The commissioners agreed to move forward with the equipment purchases and the bridge grant application, while also prioritizing the forensic audit to safeguard public trust in county finances.