Adam Norris of the county manager's office presented a proposed interlocal agreement with the City of Olathe for a 50/50 cost share, capped at $11,000,000, for design and construction of a three-level parking garage adjacent to the courthouse in downtown Olathe.

Norris said a county-city parking study found a current deficit of 62 spaces in the courthouse–city-hall–library area and projected a deficit of over 200 spaces in 10 years. The proposed structure would include 379 spaces (a net increase of 225), add eight EV charging stations with conduit for future expansion, and add eight ADA-accessible spaces on the new structure (a net gain of four ADA spaces at the immediate site). Norris said the county's share would be two payments: $5,500,000 within 30 days of construction start and $5,500,000 at substantial completion and final accounting. The city would own and maintain the structure after completion.

Commissioners concentrated on ADA accessibility and operational controls. Chair Mike Kelly and several commissioners emphasized ADA access to the courthouse as a priority. Commissioner Brewer asked why existing ADA spaces in the North Lot—about 900 feet from the courthouse entrance—would remain rather than be converted if closer ADA spaces are provided in the new garage; Norris replied that design details and minimum ADA standards would be determined in the design process and "may be adjusted." Commissioner Fast and others asked whether designated or reserved spaces for county use could be negotiated; Norris said the current proposal is first-come, first-serve but that parking management could be revisited if demand makes access difficult for courthouse users.

Commissioners also asked about funding. Norris said the county share would come from public safety sales tax 3 reserves and that projected balances at the end of the sales tax period (March 2027) would be approximately $30–32 million after the county payment. Several commissioners requested further detail on reserve balances and long-term courthouse maintenance planning before final action. The item was presented for agenda review and will return for action at the June 5, 2025 business session.