Reno County Commissioners to Review Landfill Methane Deal, Insurance Rates

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will consider a landfill methane agreement that could generate significant revenue for the county when they meet Wednesday at 9 a.m.

The proposed deal with Meadowlark Renewables LLC would allow the company to collect and process methane gas from the county landfill and sell it into a nearby gas line. Under the agreement, Reno County would receive 18.75% of revenues with a guaranteed minimum payment of $37,500 per month.

Meadowlark would cover all construction costs and provide financial security to ensure proper removal of facilities if the project is abandoned, according to county documents.

The commission also will review health and dental insurance premium rates for county employees. Officials are recommending a 4% increase in health plan premiums to cover rising fixed costs, bringing total funding to slightly more than $4.78 million. Dental plan premiums would remain unchanged.

The vote on insurance rates is time-sensitive as open enrollment for county employees begins Aug. 18.

Other business items include an overview of Kansas WorkforceONE following the merger of Local Workforce Areas I and II, which Gov. Laura Kelly approved in January. The merger aims to improve services for job seekers and employers while increasing efficiency and strengthening regional economic development.

Commissioners will consider appointments to the South Central Kansas Economic Development District board. County Commission Vice Chairman Ron Hirst has recommended Michelle Inskeep of Peoples Bank and Trust to eventually succeed him and Carissa Paxton of the City of Hutchinson to replace outgoing member Jackson Swearer.

The consent agenda includes approval of vouchers, juvenile policy updates, final minutes from May, a conditional use permit for a manufactured home and renewal of the Detention Center's GAINS program grant.

The meeting will be held in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse. Following the regular session, commissioners will adjourn into a budget work session.