Kathy was nominated and approved as chair for 2026 during the Geary County Commission’s organizational session on Jan. 5, as commissioners moved through nominations for vice chair and appointments to county and regional bodies.

The commission held nominations for chair and vice chair, followed by a series of votes to place commissioners and alternates on the Public Building Commission, Economic Development Council (EDC), North Central Kansas regional juvenile detention governing board, solid waste planning commission, regional councils and other standing committees. Voice votes were used throughout; commissioners recorded “aye” on the motions.

Commissioners discussed procedure for reorganization before taking action, including whether to bundle multiple nominations into a single omnibus motion or to make individual motions for each seat. Members said past practice and clarity favored making nominations and seconds for each position. Several commissioners said continuity on regional boards was desirable to complete outstanding work.

The slate of appointments approved included the chair and vice chair positions and representation on multiple boards and committees that handle county infrastructure, juvenile services, economic development and intergovernmental coordination. The commission also confirmed the county’s official newspaper and bank depository at the same session.

The reorganization concluded with procedural direction to staff to update appointment records and to prepare any required signature cards and notices. The commission moved on to routine business after the appointments were recorded.