Butler County commissioners approved a batch of right‑of‑way purchases to support the Butler Road WAMPO project and heard an update on outstanding negotiations and condemnations.

Curtis Mader and staff (including Bronson, the right‑of‑way lead) told the board the project is scheduled to let in October, with plans (PS&E) due July 10. They said KDOCS environmental clearance issued in June allowed staff to proceed with right‑of‑way acquisitions. Staff described county practice: a $500 minimum payment for any acquisition (including tiny temporary tracts), temporary right‑of‑way is generally valued at one‑quarter of the permanent offer, and the county used recent sales as a baseline of $8,000 for permanent purchases then added a 50% premium because the county is approaching landowners directly.

The presentation covered specific properties, including one owned by a Mr. Flowers where costs are higher because the county must extend a gate to let farm equipment off the road and replace a welded wrought‑iron fence and a masonry wall. Staff said some parcels are under verbal agreement, some are signed, and a few are in condemnation (the presenter pointed to parcels identified as in condemnation, including a parcel identified by name as Mr. Smith). Commissioners asked about a small number of remaining items; staff said they would bring another set of parcels back to the board in roughly one to two weeks. Commissioner Wazak moved to approve the right‑of‑way purchases as presented; Commissioner Murphy seconded and the motion passed 5‑0.

Staff cautioned that some purchases are primarily temporary and part of KDOT policy, while others require permanent acquisition and may include damages for fences or other site work. They also said having borrow material on nearby parcels will reduce contractor hauling costs and be a benefit to landowners who sell.