HUTCHINSON, Kan — Reno County Commissioner Dan Deming voiced concern Tuesday over added cost to belonging to the Regional Economic Area Partnership (REAP).
Apparently, he received a letter stating that county’s cost to belong will increase by an estimated 55%, going from $4,614.00, to $7,199.00. He says some other government entities are dropping out because of the increased cost. That includes Butler County as well a some smaller cities including Sedgwick, Colwich and Halstead.
But, fellow commissioner Brad Dillon says despite the additional cost, he believes its worth it to remain saying it gives a voice in Topeka to compete with similar interest that exist in the Kansas City area. He gives credit to the partnership for getting an airline subsidy for Mid-Continent Airport. He says he believes that subsidy attracted Southwest Airlines to bring service to the airport. He also states that anything the benefits Wichita and Sedgwick County also benefits Reno County, because many locals drive to Wichita to work.
But, Commissioner Deming showed some concern that Sedgwick County could also drop out. Dillon wasn’t sure that would happen, but does worry about defections, saying without this partnership, it would mean swimming against the current in getting anything done in Topeka that would benefit this area.
He did agree with Deming that if Sedgwick County were to drop out, they might need to reconsider whether they want to remain in the partnership as well.
For now, Reno County will remain in the partnership.
Also, at the Tuesday meeting, the commission voted against reimbursing Miami Township, expenses they say they incurred with the closing of the Union Pacific railroad crossing on Sylvia Road.
They also discussed, but made no decision on approving the Edward Byrne Memorial Jag Program grant for Hutchinson Police and the Reno County Sheriff’s Office.
The total for the grant is $28,360.00. About $19,000.00 dollars would go to Hutchinson Police and the rest to the sheriff’s office.
They are expected to vote on that issue next week.