Commission denies contract to hire Citadel lobbyist for proposed sales-tax statute
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Summary
After discussion about cost and alternatives, the Reno County Commission voted to deny a proposed one-year $36,000 contract with Citadel Public Affairs to lobby the legislature for authority to place an additional sales tax proposal before Reno County voters.
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.