Election officials highlight ballot drop box security measures

County administrator search narrows to five finalists

Inmate population prompts bids for extra jail bunks

County inks sewer agreement for Johnson Road fire station

County to host area legislators to discuss property taxes

Election officials highlight ballot drop box security measures

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. - In response to nationwide concerns over election integrity, Riley County election staff reassured the public regarding the strict security protocols for local ballot drop boxes. Officials confirmed that the drop box outside the Riley County Office Building was monitored 24/7 by a dedicated security camera on an isolated computer network. Additionally, designated staff and bipartisan teams collected the deposited ballots every day and maintained rigorous security logs to ensure the safety of all advanced ballots.

County administrator search narrows to five finalists

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. - The search for a new Riley County administrator is moving into its final phases, with five candidates slated for in-person interviews. Riley County Human Resources Director Elizabeth Ward reported that a workgroup successfully pre-screened 10 qualified applicants before narrowing the field. While the top five candidates will be brought in for interviews in early December, Ward confirmed the county will leave the application window open until the position is officially filled in case the initial finalists are not a good fit for the community.

Inmate population prompts bids for extra jail bunks

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. - The Riley County Jail is operating above capacity, prompting local law enforcement to seek bids for emergency bunk installations. Riley County Police Department Major Mark French reported an average daily population of 163 inmates last month—peaking at over 170—compared to an average of just 86 inmates a decade ago. To mitigate the overflow in the 25-year-old facility, which opened in 2001, officials plan to weld six new bunks near the roofline of the female housing pod and convert a work-release room into additional housing for minimum-security inmates.

County inks sewer agreement for Johnson Road fire station

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. - Riley County Commissioners unanimously authorized an outside city sewer agreement for the Konza Valley Fire Station located at 300 Johnson Road. The $8,900 lump-sum payment incorporates the property into a sewer benefit district. While the existing fire station building does not currently have a restroom or require immediate plumbing services, county staff noted the agreement provides a necessary service stub for any future facility upgrades.

County to host area legislators to discuss property taxes

RILEY COUNTY, Kan. - The Riley County Commission will host a legislative luncheon next week to discuss critical local issues with state representatives. County Counselor Jacob Hansen reported that 23 of the 36 invited county officials and state legislators have already confirmed their attendance. The working lunch will focus heavily on property tax concerns, with county staff preparing specialized presentations to advocate for local taxpayers ahead of the upcoming legislative session in Topeka.

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