Decatur County Commissioners Recap 4/1, Address Staffing, Grants, and Department Needs

by Derek White

OBERLIN, Kan. — The Decatur County Commission convened on April 1, 2025, to tackle a wide range of local matters, from departmental operations and equipment purchases to community services and grant planning. Commissioners Stan McEvoy, Ben Bryan, and Justin Scott presided over the meeting, which featured updates from multiple county departments and partner organizations.

Road & Bridge Considers Staffing Shift

Ernie Sheets, Road & Bridge Director, alongside Secretary Joni Diederich, proposed a change in Diederich’s work location. The idea is for her to split time between the office and the county shop to improve workflow and communication with road crews. Commissioners were open to the change, suggesting a gradual rollout starting with two days a week at the shop.

Sheets also provided updates on gravel deliveries from Garden City and Oakley, three bridge projects slated for the year, and a new project in Pleasant Valley Township. A brief executive session was held regarding non-elected personnel; no action was taken.

Sheriff’s Office and Public Safety

Sheriff David Wachendorfer informed the board that a bill for a new security door lock on the fourth floor would need to be ratified. He also shared that a statewide ad is running to recruit a new undersheriff.

Support for Child Advocacy and Emergency Management

Don Rivera from the Western Child Advocacy Center gave an overview of the center’s work and requested $5,000 in funding for the year. Commissioners expressed appreciation and took the request under consideration.

Emergency Manager Jeff Burmaster and RFD’s Bill Cathcart noted that Norcatur and Jennings RFD buildings, while listed under the county's insurance, are actually owned by the cities. The board agreed to remove them from county coverage. Additionally, CHS donated $10,000 to RFD, which will be placed in a memorial account for equipment purchases. The commissioners also agreed to extend the burn ban another week due to ongoing dry conditions.

Legal and Grant Actions

County Attorney Steve Hirsch reviewed and approved a Nex-Tech agreement related to account setup. The commissioners signed off on the agreement unanimously.

Weed Department Gets Equipment Approval

Barry Quanz, Noxious Weed Director, presented chemical quotes and requested approval to buy herbicides in bulk using totes rather than jugs:

• Van Diest: $2,944.15

• Nutrien Alligare: $6,552.90

• Nutrien Rifle: $6,117.50

• Total: $15,614.55

He also sought approval to purchase three Dura-Pumps (approximately $990 each) to improve safety and efficiency. Commissioners unanimously approved both requests.

EMS Discusses Water, Communication Tools, and Time Clocks

EMS Director Megan Huntley submitted an $895 Culligan estimate to install a reverse osmosis tap at the ambulance barn. The board approved the expense, citing long-term savings.

Huntley also discussed the department's preference for continuing with Page My Cell over CAD for emergency paging. Commissioners indicated both systems may remain in use depending on function and budget.

A more contentious discussion emerged around the planned installation of time clocks for county employees. Huntley expressed concern over the practicality for EMS staff, who often work irregular hours. The commissioners reaffirmed the decision, stating it would standardize timekeeping across all departments while maintaining flexibility for emergency response teams.

Two executive sessions for non-elected personnel followed; no action was reported.

Other Business

• Commissioners approved the March 25 meeting minutes without corrections.

• Brian Shaw was reappointed to the Summer Recreation Board.

• Commissioners reviewed general correspondence and signed prepaid expenses.

Meeting Adjourned

Chairman Stan McEvoy adjourned the meeting at 11:35 a.m. The next commission meeting is expected to continue discussions on grants, public safety staffing, and department upgrades.

For the latest updates or to view meeting documents, residents can contact the Decatur County Clerk’s Office or visit the courthouse during business hours.