By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
The Ellis County Commission heard suggestions from a resident regarding road conditions in rural subdivisions during its meeting Tuesday.
The discussion focused on establishing a standardized approach to road maintenance and gathering feedback from residents in various subdivisions.
Ellis County resident Ty Wilson from Stonewood North Addition highlighted the need to address road deficiencies after consulting with various subdivisions.
"The solution is pretty simple. All you have to do is create a program or agenda," Wilson said. "That opens the doors to all kinds of funding and avenues to help get the program in place."
Wilson shared several images of subdivision roads, which he said need maintenance and improvements.
Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the commission is unable to allocate funds beyond the current budget year or commit future commissions to obligations.
"One thing that hinders a lot of commissions is we cannot impose something on future commissions," Leiker said.
Wilson suggested planning ahead while maintaining consistent communication during the process. The next commission meeting for further discussion is May 20.
St. Jacobs street right of way
An adjoining property owner has requested Ellis County Public Works vacate the right of way for a portion of St. Jacobs Street in Catherine.
Public Works Director Brendan Mackay led the discussion. Mackay said the street has not been built. The request comes from someone planning to build a home on it.
The commissioners said they support vacating the right of way. A resolution will be presented for approval at the April 1 commission meeting.
Ellis County Library Board appointment and update
Commissioners reappointed Alisha Hammerschmidt's to the Ellis County Library Board for a new term ending April 30, 2029. They also approved $10,000 for 2025 expenses.
The funding will go toward software, training, legal fees and office supplies.
The initial funding request was $15,000, but the commissioners encouraged Ellis County Library Board President Benjamin Dome, who was in attendance, to attend future board meetings to request additional funds if needed.
Other business
The Ellis County Historical Society requested a letter of support from the county for two grant applications. One grant application to T-Mobile would fund the purchase of new exhibit displays.
Commissioners approved Ellis County EMS Director Danita Schroeder's request to purchase a Stryker PowerPro Cot and Powerload system for $54,504. The equipment will be used in a newly acquired ambulance.
Commissioners also approved the purchase of a 2021 Caterpillar excavator for the Road and Bridge Division for $184,736. The county's current 2005 CAT excavator is limited in reaching specific project sites.