The Reno County Commission voted to deny a proposed one-year contract with Citadel Public Affairs to lobby the Kansas legislature on a possible sales-tax statute and to monitor session activity that could affect the county.

Staff explained the contract request followed a recommendation from local legislators and that Citadel would assist the county in pursuing legislation to allow an additional, purpose-restricted sales tax to be placed before voters. Staff also said the one-year fee would be $36,000 and described options for funding the expense by leaving a staff position vacant or removing it from the 2027 budget.

Commissioners debated the effectiveness of hiring a private lobbyist versus using association representation (KAC/KCCA) or pursuing a shared-cost arrangement with another county; some questioned whether KAC/KCCA representation already addresses county priorities. One commissioner moved to deny the contract proposal; the motion was seconded and carried by roll-call vote.

The denial means staff will not execute the Citadel agreement. Commissioners asked staff to explore alternative avenues, including association resources and potential cost-sharing with other counties, before returning with further options.