County reviews legislative concerns, approves equipment warranties and Colby support letters
March 16, 2026
The Thomas County Board of Commissioners met Monday, March 16 at the Historic Thomas County Courthouse, with Commissioner Brian Luedke joining virtually and County Attorney Chris Rohr absent.
The meeting opened with announcements led by Commission Chair Mike Baughn, who highlighted several pieces of legislation currently under consideration at the state level that could impact county operations.
Baughn referenced Senate Substitute for House Bill 2745, along with Senate Bill 489 and other measures tied to property taxation, noting that commissioners should remain aware of potential changes as the legislative session progresses.
According to background information provided by the Kansas County Commissioners Association, the proposed legislation addresses topics including property tax caps, revenue-neutral rate requirements, and potential exemptions such as a homestead property tax reduction. These proposals remain under consideration, and Baughn emphasized the importance of monitoring developments as the session nears its conclusion.
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Commissioners also noted that the legislative session is scheduled to adjourn March 27, with a brief wrap-up session expected in April.
Following announcements, the commission approved the meeting agenda with one adjustment, removing a road discussion item due to the absence of the county attorney.
Accounts payable were approved, including $14,088.65 for Road and Bridge in 2026, $68,224.55 for the 2026 Courthouse General fund, and $1,207.51 from the 2025 Courthouse General fund.
The board then reviewed and approved extended warranty quotes for two Caterpillar 12M3 motor graders, identified as units 407 and 408. The warranties, which are set to expire May 22, were approved at costs of $8,773.50 and $7,948.50 respectively. Commissioners were advised that approving the warranties ahead of expiration would avoid additional inspection fees and help maintain equipment coverage.
Two letters of support requested by the City of Colby were also approved.
The first letter supports a federal funding request related to electrical infrastructure improvements, including diesel generator installation to support community growth tied to the STAR Bond district and the construction of the new hospital. The project is part of broader development efforts expected to increase demand on local infrastructure.
The second letter supports a cost-share application for continued improvements to Country Club Drive, a key route connecting Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 24 that serves both commercial and industrial traffic.
Commissioners also approved two line-item transfers within county accounts. One transfer of $2,462.68 within the Health Department corrected a posting error between laboratory expense accounts, while a second transfer of $177.12 addressed a clerical misallocation in the county’s general accounts.
Minutes from the March 9 meeting were approved without changes.
Additional non-action items included receipt of January meeting minutes from the High Plains Mental Health Center, as well as invitations to upcoming regional meetings, including a Kansas Natural Resource Coalition gathering in Garden City and an RSVP event scheduled for April.
Before adjournment, Baughn briefly revisited legislative updates, noting that late-session negotiations and committee work could significantly alter bills before final passage.
The meeting adjourned at 9:23 a.m.