Geary County commissioners approve publishing budget amendment, set Dec. 8 public hearing

Geary County commissioners voted to amend the county budget to account for community‑corrections reimbursement funds and set a public hearing for Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. Finance Director Tammy Robinson told the board the state required adult and juvenile reimbursement funds be separated but provided little guidance on how to account for the change, prompting the amendment request.

Robinson said the amendment is intended to prevent reporting or budget-law problems and would not raise property taxes: "This isn't an addition to any of their property taxes," she said, explaining that the amendment budgets revenue the county has already received rather than creating a new tax. She recommended publishing the notice in the newspaper on Nov. 20 so the hearing could be held Dec. 8 if the board approved.

A motion to amend the budget was moved on the floor and seconded; the board voice-voted in favor. Commissioner (Speaker 4) moved to approve the amendment and Speaker 1 seconded; the chair called for those in favor to say "Aye," and the motion carried. Robinson said she would publish the notice and proceed with the hearing schedule.

Commissioners also discussed pursuing clarity from the Legislature. One commissioner said the state has given community‑corrections staff minimal guidance and suggested preparing written material for legislators at an upcoming working lunch.

Next steps: Robinson will submit the amendment notice for publication by Nov. 20 and manage the Dec. 8 public hearing process as required under state budget law.