Grant funds announced by homeland security
Marion County will receive a lion's share of grant funds from Homeland Security Grant Program.
Michele Abbott-Becker, communications and emergency management director, reported Monday to Marion County Commission that the county received the 20th highest amount of 105 counties — $92,200.
Even though Marion County is lumped with Sedgwick County in the south-central district, grant amounts are based on assessments and need, said Abbott-Becker.
Of those funds, $53,357 are from State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) and $38,825 are from Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Program (LETPP).
A total of $5,424,000 was allocated to Kansas counties and $5,261,280 to districts within the state.
Grant projects must meet specific guidelines and criteria. In the past, the county used funds for new radios for emergency personnel.
In other business:
— County hazardous household waste director Rollin Schmidt reported his grant application had been approved for a can crusher.
— Schmidt presented a cost estimate for a digital readout for a scale at the transfer station. Currently, drivers have to walk from the scale in the drive to see a weight readout in the transfer station building. If a transfer station employee is available, he will signal to the driver that the weight is OK which is a flawed system, said Schmidt.
The commission approved a red and green light system to be used for loads and will consider adding the outdoor scale readout in the 2007 budget.
— A full-time employee had been hired for the transfer station and will be announced at Monday's meeting, said Schmidt. Schmidt continues to search for a part-time employee to work Saturdays.
— The south roll-up door at the transfer station is inoperable. It is to be replaced this week by Cheney Door Company.
— Due to increased fuel and pesticide costs, Schmidt said he had divided the county into quadrants and plans to spray a quadrant each year.
Lions club presents community service awards to MHS seniors
Marion Lions Club presented two community service awards to Marion High School seniors.
Katelyn Whitaker, daughter of Neal and Cathy Whitaker of Marion will receive a $500 award. She will attend Emporia State University where she will study English literature and European history.
Jessica Carlson, daughter of Brad Carlson and Rhonda Carlson of Marion also will receive a $500 award. She plans to attend Flint Hills Technical College, Emporia, to become a dental assistant.
Selection for the award is based largely on the amount of community service performed by each applicant.
