Seward County Commissioners Approve $500,000 Buyout of Fifteenth Street Fire Station

In a recent Seward County Commission meeting, significant discussions centered around the proposed buyout of the Fifteenth Street Fire Station by the City of Liberal for $500,000. This decision aims to facilitate growth for both the city and county fire departments, allowing them to better serve the community. The commission unanimously approved the offer, pending legal documentation to ensure the county retains a right of first refusal should the city decide to sell the facility in the future.

Commissioner Fuller expressed concerns about the county's declining population and the financial implications of the buyout, highlighting a broader issue of taxpayer burden. Despite these concerns, the motion passed with a 4-1 vote, indicating a strong belief among the majority that the buyout will ultimately benefit local emergency services.

In addition to the fire station discussion, the commission appointed Andrew Barclay as the interim emergency management director, a move aimed at ensuring continuity in leadership during a transitional period. This appointment was also approved unanimously.

Looking ahead, the commission announced a budget work session scheduled for September 10 and a public hearing on the revenue neutral rate set for September 15. These sessions will provide residents with opportunities to engage with the commission on financial matters affecting the community.

The meeting concluded with various commissioners sharing updates on community events and initiatives, including a positive report on the recent Kismet World's Fair and discussions about enhancing the use of local facilities for community events. Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing community needs while navigating financial challenges.