The Geary County Commission voted to move forward with an H & N architect Phase 2 contract to study the county building, staffing and operational requirements. The motion included forwarding contract materials to the incoming sheriff and authorizing the commission chairman to sign the contract originals.

Kimmy Robinson, the county finance director, summarized the PBC recommendation and the contract scope, saying Phase 2 would include proposed work from justice planners (including Bill Garnos) and could pair an operational-audit review with the architect services. Robinson said the county has limited CIP funds and that staff would identify how to pay for the optional service.

"...we could use towards this, $15,000, but I will determine what kind of a cost this other service is going to be and bring it back to you for consideration on where to pay funds," Robinson said.

Commissioners discussed who would lead day-to-day coordination; Robinson recommended Jeremy work with H & N on the building while finance handles audit-related needs. A commissioner moved and seconded the recommendation; the commission approved the motion and directed the chairman to sign the contract documents.

Robinson said she would provide the contract originals to the clerk and work with county staff to finalize scope, cost estimates for the optional service, and the division of implementation tasks. Commissioners also asked that the incoming sheriff receive the contract materials before final execution.

Next steps: county staff will determine final costs for optional assessment services, seek necessary CIP authorization for up to $15,000 if retained, and set a staff lead for contractor coordination.