Treasurer reports stronger February revenues; commissioners agree to support testimony on SB404

Riley County Treasurer Shiloh Hager reported at the March 12 commission meeting that February revenues and investment income were running ahead of budget, driven in part by larger-than-usual dealer remittances and higher sales-tax receipts.

Hager said the county’s total assets and fund balances improved in February and that year-to-date collections were ahead of expectations. She noted particular strength in sales tax and that a dealership’s annual remittance boosted December sales-tax collections. On operational metrics, Hager said the treasurer’s office processed higher numbers of renewals and titles compared with last year and that online renewals were growing.

Hager also briefed the board on Senate Bill 404, which would allow counties to set a county service/transaction fee for motor-vehicle transactions of up to $15 and would convert the existing facility fee into a transaction fee captured on online and mail-in transactions. The bill includes a two-year sunset to allow the legislature and Department of Revenue to evaluate longer-term options. Hager said the bill could provide additional revenue for counties, though she and staff expect amendments during conference.

Hager asked whether the commission would like the county to submit testimony to an upcoming House transportation hearing. Commissioners agreed staff would prepare a draft and one commissioner — serving as the county’s lobbyist — offered to sign testimony if the board approved it. Hager said the House hearing was scheduled for Monday at 1:30 p.m. and that she would coordinate testimony with staff.

No vote on the policy itself was taken by the board at the meeting.