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Commissioners approve $25,000 for Sunflower Diversified Services despite conflict-of-interest abstention
Summary
The Pawnee County Commission approved a $25,000 contract to fund early-intervention services for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities for fiscal 2027; one commissioner abstained because of a conflict of interest.
The Pawnee County Board of Commissioners voted May 4 to approve a $25,000 Agreement for Services with Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc. to fund Birth-to-3 early‑intervention services in 2027. The motion, made by Commissioner Miller and seconded by Commissioner Rein, passed with Commissioner Burdett abstaining due to a declared conflict of interest; the recorded vote was 2–0 in favor.
Brandi Loomis, executive director of Sunflower Diversified Services, told commissioners the program received 18 referrals in 2026 and that early intervention often allows children to 'catch up in their delays before starting school,' which she described as a cost-saving outcome. McKinley Phillips, director of early education and care, said referrals come from Parent as Teachers, social workers, radio advertising and word of mouth.
Commissioners noted the funding request mirrors prior years and said the county could publicize Sunflower events on Pawnee County social media. The resolution and signed agreement will be maintained in county records. The action was recorded as an Agreement for Services to fund $25,000 for budget year 2027.
