Marion County Commission reorganizes leadership, approves routine purchases and a $2,650 health grant

The Marion County Commission met Monday and completed its annual reorganization, settling several leadership roles and approving routine administrative items.

During roll call for leadership, a motion to appoint Clark Dirks (self‑nomination) failed, recorded in the meeting as "3 to 2 fails." Commissioners then moved to accept the nomination of Dave Profoot for chair; subsequent votes and tallies were recorded during the discussion. Kent Becker was nominated for vice chair and a separate vote recorded at least one abstention. Commissioners later appointed Clark Dirks as alternate vice chair; the meeting recorded that vote as unanimous ('5 0').

The commission approved its meeting agenda and the minutes from Jan. 5 by voice vote. Staff reported early checks of $24,640.27 and explained a January lease management payment of $10,701 tied to the county’s fleet fund (Fund 11). Staff said some vehicle purchase and build‑out charges are still being finalized and that a detailed payment schedule would be provided for review.

On procurement, staff presented a quote to replace a 2017 office printer and asked the board to authorize the encumbered purchase through the state contract (CDWG). A motion to approve the printer purchase was moved and approved. The board also accepted a $2,650 mini‑grant awarded to the Marion County Health Department for pack‑n‑plays and safe‑sleep training and authorized "Krista" to sign the award documents.

The commission recessed twice into executive session to consult with county attorneys on potential litigation and on contract negotiations, citing KSA 75‑4319(b). Commissioners returned to open session and stated that no action was taken during the closed sessions.

The meeting closed with routine commissioner comments and scheduling items; staff agreed to add follow‑up materials to a future agenda for items such as a property with a revoked conditional‑use permit.