As voters headed to the polls Tuesday, Allen County Commissioners proclaimed Nov. 3, 2020 as “Election Worker Appreciation Day.” With a record number of voters casting their ballots early or by mail, the recognition for those ensuring the integrity of our elections seemed a fitting tribute in what would shape up to be a long day for the County Clerk’s office.
The proclamation, which declared that “Allen County workers serve to protect universal suffrage…and the public’s thanks for their selfless personal commitment,” was signed by all three commissioners.
That recognition was the happiest part of Tuesday’s meeting, which included an update from Humboldt City Administrator Cole Herder on Allen County’s E-Community, which partners with NetWork Kansas to support small businesses. Herder informed commissioners that Allen County residents have until the end of November to purchase tax credits. Donors would receive a 75% state income tax credit for their donation, a dollar-for-dollar credit against state income tax liability. Interested parties can contact Herder for more information, who also stressed that Allen County’s E-Community is recruiting additional board members.
Public works director Mitch Garner informed commissioners that county crews are still mowing, trimming trees and filling potholes. Garner also mentioned that crews are currently working on building up 4400 Road near Elsmore to get the road in decent shape before winter. He also assured commissioners that Savonburg Road is at the top of the list for improvements next spring.
Commissioners, who shared a letter of appreciation from the City of Moran for help the county provided with chipsealing Moran’s city streets, inquired about the progress of lane striping on the old Highway 169. Garner reported that the project, along with runway striping at the county airport, is a priority but likely won’t get done until next year.
Allen County Dispatch Center employees Chelsie Angleton and Karen Kimball briefly appeared before county commissioners. The two have assumed additional duties since Angie Murphy left her position last Saturday, with Angleton, who has been with the Dispatch Center for close to seven years, serving as interim director. Commissioners informed Angleton and Kimball that the search for a full-time director will begin soon.
As a final act of business, upon the advice of county attorney Bob Johnson, commissioners also signed a resolution providing for a tax sale of properties that have been delinquent on their property taxes for at least three years. Johnson informed commissioners that 104 Allen County residents owe approximately $386,000 in unpaid taxes. The resolution authorizes Johnson to begin proceedings for the tax sale, which will likely occur next spring or summer.
