Thomas County Commissioners Hold October 20 Meeting
October 20, 2025
The Thomas County Board of Commissioners convened for its regular meeting on October 20 at the Historic Thomas County Courthouse. Chair Mike Baughn called the session to order, joined by Commissioners Brad Flipse and Brian Luedke. County Attorney Chris Rohr and Clerk Keesa Mariman were also present.
The meeting opened with an extended public comment period addressing concerns at the Nine-Mile Corner intersection. Local resident Bill Miller brought forward findings from the recent KDOT Local Consult meeting, stressing that the dangerous crossing continues to pose risks. Miller urged the commission to consider hiring an additional officer to patrol the area, suggesting the position could be funded using savings from the county’s IT system changeover.
He emphasized that enforcement would quickly improve compliance. “When the word gets around that we’re not going to let you speed through there, or we’re going to give you tickets, we can make that intersection safer,” Miller said. He even suggested publishing names of offenders in the local paper to add accountability.
County Attorney Chris Rohr agreed with Miller’s proposal, noting that “hiring another officer would be a great idea.”
Commissioner Luedke clarified that although the county’s new IT contract with Corsica Technologies will save about $36,000 compared to the prior provider, not all of that money is free for reallocation.
Rohr also addressed confusion surrounding the proposed liquor-by-the-drink ballot measure. He said he plans to collaborate with the Thomas County Economic Development Alliance on a joint public statement to ensure voters understand the measure before the upcoming election. “It’s important the community has accurate information,” Rohr told commissioners, adding that the statement would be submitted to local media within the week.
Following discussion, the commission approved a contract with Corsica Technologies to handle countywide IT services beginning January 1, 2026, replacing Anchor. The changeover includes cybersecurity management, onsite support, and training for department staff.
Corsica representatives explained that the onboarding process will begin before year-end to ensure a smooth transition. Payment will be made through ACH to avoid surcharge fees. Commissioners also reviewed contract details, including service level response times, hardware lifecycles, and local data backup responsibilities.
The board next approved a bridge application permit for Road A and Road 21 south of Mingo. The project will require purchasing small portions of land from local landowners to allow right-of-way adjustments and utility relocation. The estimated cost for the right-of-way acquisitions totals just over $5,000.
Commissioners also approved a request to pour a 20-by-25-foot concrete pad near the Genesis office at the Thomas County Office Complex. The road department will perform the work using building maintenance funds, with an estimated cost of $1,700.
A billing discrepancy with Commissioner Luedke’s county phone account was addressed. After reviewing several months of invoices, the board approved a motion requiring Luedke to reimburse the county $24.05 per month for five months, totaling roughly $120, and to supersede prior motions on the matter.
The board then entered a 30-minute executive session for personnel matters concerning the Road and Bridge Department. Upon returning to open session, no action was taken.
Commissioners approved accounts payable totaling $53,577.25 for Roads and Bridge and $165,146.80 for Courthouse General. The remaining balance from this year’s wind farm fund stood at $50,668.05.
The meeting adjourned shortly before lunch, with the next regular session scheduled for the last business day of the month at the courthouse.