Commission reinvigorates 'Stepping Up' mental health initiative

County monitors state legislation on property taxes and health verification

County jail installs new accountability technology

Clerk's office authorized to hire temporary election assistants

Deadline approaches for First Christian Church property proposals

Downtown organization focuses on retail recruitment and spring events

Emergency management prepares for statewide tornado drill

Commission reinvigorates 'Stepping Up' mental health initiative

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. — The Riley County Commission discussed renewing its commitment to the Stepping Up initiative, a national program aimed at reducing the over-incarceration of individuals with mental illnesses. Audra Goldsmith of the Council of State Governments Justice Center urged the county to implement a validated mental health screening tool at jail booking and to track data on recidivism and community care connections. The framework will be integrated into existing local mental health task forces to identify service gaps and assist the estimated 40 percent of inmates requiring alternative mental health services.

County monitors state legislation on property taxes and health verification

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. — County counselor Jacob Hansen updated the commission on several state legislative bills, including Kansas Senate Bill 254 that would require the local health department to use the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program to verify the legal status of individuals seeking public health benefits. Hansen is also monitoring property tax legislation, including a bill proposing tax rebates for properties sold below appraised values, and is coordinating with county lobbyists to advocate for positive local outcomes.

County jail installs new accountability technology

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. — The Riley County Jail has implemented a new technology system from Guardian RFID to improve facility accountability and monitoring. Riley County Police Department corrections major Mark French reported the jail's population currently stands at 117 inmates, with only three housed offsite due to no-contact orders. French noted that the recent consolidation of inmate populations and the addition of the new technology, body scanners and upgraded camera systems have helped the facility meet the "state-of-the-art" standards outlined by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

Clerk's office authorized to hire temporary election assistants

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. — The advertising and hiring of temporary election assistants at $15 per hour was unanimously approved to help the Riley County Clerk's Office meet mandated statutory requirements and statewide security mandates. Riley County Elections Manager Susan Boller stated the temporary staff will handle electronic poll books, voting equipment testing, ballot fulfillment and data entry ahead of the primary and general elections. The hires will not impact the county's budget, as the positions were already included in the budget cycle.

Deadline approaches for First Christian Church property proposals

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. — The county is nearing the deadline for its request for proposals regarding the future of the First Christian Church property. County counselor Jacob Hansen reported that proposals must be submitted by March 16. The county plans to formally open any received proposals on March 23, with official consideration and review by the Board of County Commissioners scheduled for April 2. Hansen noted that at least one party has expressed interest in the property.

Downtown organization focuses on retail recruitment and spring events

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Downtown Manhattan Inc. is prioritizing retail recruitment this year to maintain a balanced mix of businesses and avoid an over-concentration of bars and restaurants. Downtown Manhattan Inc. Executive Director Gina Snyder told the commission the organization is pushing a "Shop Local First" campaign to educate consumers and keep sales tax dollars in the community. Upcoming downtown events include a spring retailer workshop/open house on April 11 and the Pink Up the Pace 5K event on April 18.

Emergency management prepares for statewide tornado drill

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. — In recognition of Severe Weather Awareness Week, Riley County Emergency Management Coordinator Laurie Harrison announced that outdoor warning sirens and the Everbridge notification system will be activated for a statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, March 4, at 11 a.m. Central Standard Time. Harrison urged residents to review their emergency kits and establish a shelter plan for both home and work. The National Weather Service in Topeka will also host a free, public severe weather safety presentation at Pottorf Hall in CiCo Park on March 24.

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