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Atchison County commissioners discuss possible sale of county lake, agree to public outreach and negotiation steps
Summary
Commissioners discussed potential sale of the county lake at length on Feb. 11, agreed to seek more detailed commission/fee proposals from a prospective realtor, and to prepare a one‑page public information summary and a press outreach plan before taking further action.
Commissioners discussed the possibility of selling Atchison County Lake and outlined next steps for public outreach and negotiation but took no final action at the Feb. 11 meeting.
Commissioners said the prospect of a sale is currently in a fact-finding stage and acknowledged there may be local opposition. They agreed the county should prepare a public information 1‑pager describing why the county is considering a sale, how proceeds might be used and key dates, and to share that material via the county website, social media, local radio and newspapers.
The board asked the finance director to continue negotiating commission structures and fees with the potential broker (referenced as Midwest Lane Group in the transcript) and to bring back details on projected proceeds and tax‑exempt acreage calculations. Commissioners discussed whether to hold a public meeting after public notification and proposed waiting about a week after publishing the initial outreach before determining whether a special meeting is necessary.
Commissioners also noted infrastructure issues that would be required for a sale, including surveying and road platting. One commissioner estimated surveying and easement descriptions for roads could take three to six months and said road work/platting may be contingent on a sale proceeding. Finance staff and the road and bridge superintendent were asked to identify budgetary and logistical implications, including potential costs and timing.
Commissioners repeatedly emphasized the importance of transparency and outreach. One commissioner suggested using an informational approach similar to a recent county example in which officials explained a project’s purpose, need and expected benefits before undertaking formal steps.
No binding decision to list the property or accept an offer was recorded. The item was left as active fact-finding with assigned follow-up tasks for staff and a plan to prepare public information materials.
