Coffey County received the final county water study from its engineers and later approved a construction change order tied to access work at the SSM Airport during its Jan. 12, 2026 meeting.

Sabine, representing the county engineer team (CFS), summarized the final report and left copies with county staff. Highlights included that the City of Burlington maintains the most modern water system in the county, while many rural districts—especially in the southern county and District 2—are constrained by small-diameter lines that produce low pressure and limit fire-suppression capability. The engineers recommended priority projects including upsizing mains, adding storage capacity (engineer noted a combined current tank capacity of roughly 125,000–150,000 gallons versus an estimated 250,000 gallons needed for reserve), and exploring development agreements and alternative supply options with the Kansas Water Office.

Discussion followed about costs and potential funding sources. Sabine noted a Midwest Engineers estimate of about $1.3 million to install a priority south 4-inch line; staff said they would pursue grant opportunities and coordinate with water districts on project sequencing.

On construction business, commissioners reviewed change order 7 for the SSM Airport access road (lowering a waterline at 20th Road). After questions on materials, billing and time-and-materials work, the board made a motion to authorize direct procurement to sign Change Order 7 for Kilo Construction; the motion passed 5-0. The board then discussed Change Order 8, which arose from KDOT permitting and grading/ditch work necessary to satisfy the state; because work on the larger job was on hold and some permits and documentation remained outstanding, commissioners agreed to hold consideration of Change Order 8 until job restart and paperwork are confirmed.

Commissioners and staff said the water-study findings will guide future priorities for grant applications and district coordination; no binding funding commitments were made at the meeting.