By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina Post

Two suspects broke into Jenni's Liquor in Brookville early Friday morning around 6:30 a.m., where the pair stole $327 of Crown Royal Whiskey.

Saline County Sheriff Rodger Soldan said the suspects arrived in a white Toyota Tacoma truck and used a key to enter the store.

"Two male subjects got out — a thin male with darker skin wearing a grey hoodie and a black mask went to the front door, followed by a large heavyset male in a blue hoodie and a full face mask," Soldan said.

About 30 seconds after the suspects entered the building, the surveillance footage showed they left with multiple Crown Royal Whiskey bottles.

Jenni's Liquor reported that the suspects took five bottles of Crown Royal Chiefs Edition, two bottles of Crown Royal Black, and a bottle of Crown Royal Apple.

The Saline County Sheriff's Office is still looking for the suspects.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fjennisliquor%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02ZNFkdnwEgYiKU7eftrgVE4p9YW6MMeprDrt721qWZ5mkgt62GW9QQ8fmkqhVvcdQl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="703" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostTwo suspects broke into Jenni's Liquor in Brookville early Friday morning around 6:30 a.m., where the pair stole $327 of Crown Royal Whiskey.Saline County Sheriff Rodger Soldan said the suspects arrived in a white Toyota Tacoma truck and used a key to enter the store."Two male subjects got out — a thin male with darker skin wearing a grey hoodie and a black mask went to the front door, followed by a large heavyset male in a blue hoodie and a full face mask," Soldan said.About 30 seconds after the suspects entered the building, the surveillance footage showed they left with multiple Crown Royal Whiskey bottles.Jenni's Liquor reported that the suspects took five bottles of Crown Royal Chiefs Edition, two bottles of Crown Royal Black, and a bottle of Crown Royal Apple.The Saline County Sheriff's Office is still looking for the suspects.

Hundreds of dollars worth of whiskey stolen from Brookville liquor store on Friday

The Saline County Commission meeting will take place in person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and streamed to YouTube Live. Commission meetings can be found on the Saline County YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams</a>.

If any assistance is needed to participate in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;leamerm@salinecountyks.gov&nbsp;before the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.

<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6411">Approval of Community Comment Letter Regarding Essential Air Service at Salina Airport Authority</a>

FY24 Justice Assistance Grant Assurances

Background: The subgrant award listed below is available for expenditure in accordance with the agency’s approved application under the Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) as established by the Federal Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, Title I of P. L. 90-351, codified at 34 U.S.C. §10151-10158 (see also 28 U.S.C. §530C(a)), and awarded to the State of Kansas through Federal Award Number 15PBJA-23-GG-02980-MUMU on September 22, 2023, by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA).

Consent to City of Salina Industrial Revenue Bonds

Background: Salina Destination Development LLC has been selected by the City of Salina to design, build and operate a large apartment project located west of I-135 and Magnolia Road on land that is currently in the unincorporated county. The first phase of this project will be for 250 apartments. This project is intended to alleviate some of the acute housing needs currently being felt in the area as businesses have continued to expand their workforce. In order to facilitate this need for housing, the City of Salina was able to receive a state grant and intends to issue industrial revenue bonds (IRB’s) for both sales tax on building materials and personal property for 10 years.

The City has started the process to annex the property. However, because the property is currently outside city limits, state statute (K.S.A. 12-1741a) requires consent of the Board of County Commissioners before IRB’s can be issued. The Development Agreement with Salina Destination Development LLC requires approval of the IRB’s within 45 days of closing on the property. Due to uncertainties in the timeline of the annexation process and to ensure compliance with the 45-day requirement for approval of IRB’s in the Development Agreement, the County Commission’s consent is requested to be able to issue IRB’s before completion of the annexation.


Bid Award for 2023 Aggregate Shouldering

Background: Discuss and take appropriate action on a Saline County Road and Bridge Department request to award the bid for 2023 Aggregate Shoulder Construction. Sealed bids were opened on November 21, 2023, at 11:00 am. We received one bid from APAC-Kansas.&nbsp;

All shouldering work must be completed by March 29, 2024. Included is a project location map that shows the locations of this work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Saline County Commission meeting will take place in person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and streamed to YouTube Live. Commission meetings can be found on the Saline County YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams</a>.If any assistance is needed to participate in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;leamerm@salinecountyks.gov&nbsp;before the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.<h2>Consent Agenda</h2>Approval of Tax Roll AdjustmentsApproval of Accounts PayableApproval of Public Forum Agenda<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6411">Approval of Community Comment Letter Regarding Essential Air Service at Salina Airport Authority</a><h2>Proposals</h2>FY24 Justice Assistance Grant AssurancesBackground: The subgrant award listed below is available for expenditure in accordance with the agency’s approved application under the Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) as established by the Federal Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, Title I of P. L. 90-351, codified at 34 U.S.C. §10151-10158 (see also 28 U.S.C. §530C(a)), and awarded to the State of Kansas through Federal Award Number 15PBJA-23-GG-02980-MUMU on September 22, 2023, by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). 
<h2>Action Items</h2>Consent to City of Salina Industrial Revenue BondsBackground: Salina Destination Development LLC has been selected by the City of Salina to design, build and operate a large apartment project located west of I-135 and Magnolia Road on land that is currently in the unincorporated county. The first phase of this project will be for 250 apartments. This project is intended to alleviate some of the acute housing needs currently being felt in the area as businesses have continued to expand their workforce. In order to facilitate this need for housing, the City of Salina was able to receive a state grant and intends to issue industrial revenue bonds (IRB’s) for both sales tax on building materials and personal property for 10 years. The City has started the process to annex the property. However, because the property is currently outside city limits, state statute (K.S.A. 12-1741a) requires consent of the Board of County Commissioners before IRB’s can be issued. The Development Agreement with Salina Destination Development LLC requires approval of the IRB’s within 45 days of closing on the property. Due to uncertainties in the timeline of the annexation process and to ensure compliance with the 45-day requirement for approval of IRB’s in the Development Agreement, the County Commission’s consent is requested to be able to issue IRB’s before completion of the annexation.
Bid Award for 2023 Aggregate ShoulderingBackground: Discuss and take appropriate action on a Saline County Road and Bridge Department request to award the bid for 2023 Aggregate Shoulder Construction. Sealed bids were opened on November 21, 2023, at 11:00 am. We received one bid from APAC-Kansas.&nbsp;All shouldering work must be completed by March 29, 2024. Included is a project location map that shows the locations of this work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701134623001.jpeg" alt="2023 Aggregate Shouldering Project Location Map.jpg" />
 <figcaption>2023 Aggregate Shouldering Project Location Map.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Informational Items</h2>Road and Bridge Departmental UpdateCounty Administrator UpdateCommissioner Comments

Industrial Revenue Bond discussion, roads and bridges department update, Saline County Commission agenda items

On Wednesday, Nov. 22, the Saline County Sheriff's Office reported to the 6000 block of State Street, where a passerby noticed a black Dodge pickup crashed in the trees near the road.

According to Saline County Sheriff Rodger Soldan, the truck was traveling westbound on State Street when it left the roadway and crashed into the trees.

"Turns out the vehicle had been in the trees for some time," Soldan said. "There was a body found out there."

Deputies found human remains near the wreck, and until now, dense foliage hid the scene from view. The truck belonged to 20-year-old Jessi J. Herbst from Lacrosse, who was last seen this summer.

"He was reported back in July as a missing person — possibly endangered, he was possibly suicidal," Soldan said.

The individual was likely Herbst, but an autopsy report will confirm the body's identity.

Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698873143602.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostOn Wednesday, Nov. 22, the Saline County Sheriff's Office reported to the 6000 block of State Street, where a passerby noticed a black Dodge pickup crashed in the trees near the road.According to Saline County Sheriff Rodger Soldan, the truck was traveling westbound on State Street when it left the roadway and crashed into the trees."Turns out the vehicle had been in the trees for some time," Soldan said. "There was a body found out there."Deputies found human remains near the wreck, and until now, dense foliage hid the scene from view. The truck belonged to 20-year-old Jessi J. Herbst from Lacrosse, who was last seen this summer."He was reported back in July as a missing person — possibly endangered, he was possibly suicidal," Soldan said.The individual was likely Herbst, but an autopsy report will confirm the body's identity.Salina Post will update the story as more information becomes available.

Saline County Sheriff's Office finds body near wrecked truck on State Street

Multiple inches of snow turned roads to slush this weekend, transforming the wide interstates into dangerous slip-and-slides for motor vehicles.

The Saline County Sheriff's Office reported three slide-offs on Saturday, with only minor injuries at each.

The first occurred at mile marker 79 on Interstate 135 when 46-year-old Veronica Cavazos from Hallettsville, TX, slid off the roadway and struck an interstate sign.

According to Saline County Sheriff Rodger Soldan, Cavazos lost control of her brown 2013 Chevrolet Suburban, sliding into the ditch and striking the road sign with her rear passenger door.

"She did have a passenger that was complaining of his hand hurting from the airbag, but he refused treatment," Soldan said. "There were five of them in the vehicle total... it was a minor injury, and nobody was transported."

Another slide-off occurred later in the day at 12:47 p.m. at mile marker 260 on Interstate 70 — a white 2019 BMW SUV operated by 50-year-old Salina resident Jeanie Blake lost control while traveling east and hit a guard rail on the highway.

Once deputies arrived on the scene, they discovered Blake had minor injuries, but she refused treatment.

As the Sheriff's Office responded to this incident, at 1:08 p.m., 37-year-old David Boucher from Hoyt changed lanes to avoid the crash at mile marker 260 and lost control a short distance after the first slide-off.

"He changed lanes to avoid the vehicles stopped for the crash," Soldan said. "He lost control and struck a bridge pillar on the south side of the road."

Boucher had a 36-year-old passenger, Rachel Boucher, who had a laceration on her head from the crash. EMS transported her to Salina Regional Health Center for her injuries.

According to Soldan, the crash victims reported no other serious injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016794734.jpeg" alt="Downtown Santa Fe Avenue at the Stiefel Theatre covered in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Santa Fe Avenue at the Stiefel Theatre covered in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostMultiple inches of snow turned roads to slush this weekend, transforming the wide interstates into dangerous slip-and-slides for motor vehicles.The Saline County Sheriff's Office reported three slide-offs on Saturday, with only minor injuries at each.The first occurred at mile marker 79 on Interstate 135 when 46-year-old Veronica Cavazos from Hallettsville, TX, slid off the roadway and struck an interstate sign.According to Saline County Sheriff Rodger Soldan, Cavazos lost control of her brown 2013 Chevrolet Suburban, sliding into the ditch and striking the road sign with her rear passenger door."She did have a passenger that was complaining of his hand hurting from the airbag, but he refused treatment," Soldan said. "There were five of them in the vehicle total... it was a minor injury, and nobody was transported."Another slide-off occurred later in the day at 12:47 p.m. at mile marker 260 on Interstate 70 — a white 2019 BMW SUV operated by 50-year-old Salina resident Jeanie Blake lost control while traveling east and hit a guard rail on the highway.Once deputies arrived on the scene, they discovered Blake had minor injuries, but she refused treatment.As the Sheriff's Office responded to this incident, at 1:08 p.m., 37-year-old David Boucher from Hoyt changed lanes to avoid the crash at mile marker 260 and lost control a short distance after the first slide-off."He changed lanes to avoid the vehicles stopped for the crash," Soldan said. "He lost control and struck a bridge pillar on the south side of the road."Boucher had a 36-year-old passenger, Rachel Boucher, who had a laceration on her head from the crash. EMS transported her to Salina Regional Health Center for her injuries.According to Soldan, the crash victims reported no other serious injuries.

Saturday snowstorm causes multiple slide-offs in Saline County

Early Saturday morning, the Salina Police Department arrived at the 2100 block of Village Lane at 2:23 a.m., where the parents of a 13-year-old girl reported that she attempted to murder them while sleeping.

According to SPD Sergeant Kyle Tonniges, the parents recorded the incident through a surveillance camera stationed in their room.

"The surveillance camera shows the 13-year-old coming into the room with a pillow and a knife, a large butcher knife," Tonniges said. 

The 13-year-old then attempted to smother her father with the pillow — as he woke up from the incident, she ran into the closet to hide before returning to try again.

The father woke up during the second attempt by the teen and realized his daughter's intent, so he reviewed the video footage from their room.

"She admits that she had gone into this room with the intent of killing both her mother and father, so we arrested her for attempted first-degree murder," Tonniges said.

SPD arrested the 13-year-old for two counts of attempted first-degree murder. Tonniges said the department transported the 13-year-old to the juvenile detention center in Junction City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573750784898.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostEarly Saturday morning, the Salina Police Department arrived at the 2100 block of Village Lane at 2:23 a.m., where the parents of a 13-year-old girl reported that she attempted to murder them while sleeping.According to SPD Sergeant Kyle Tonniges, the parents recorded the incident through a surveillance camera stationed in their room."The surveillance camera shows the 13-year-old coming into the room with a pillow and a knife, a large butcher knife," Tonniges said. The 13-year-old then attempted to smother her father with the pillow — as he woke up from the incident, she ran into the closet to hide before returning to try again.The father woke up during the second attempt by the teen and realized his daughter's intent, so he reviewed the video footage from their room."She admits that she had gone into this room with the intent of killing both her mother and father, so we arrested her for attempted first-degree murder," Tonniges said.SPD arrested the 13-year-old for two counts of attempted first-degree murder. Tonniges said the department transported the 13-year-old to the juvenile detention center in Junction City.

Salina teen attempted to kill both parents early Saturday morning

The Salina City Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and via Zoom.&nbsp; Meetings can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.&nbsp;

To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.&nbsp;

The meeting can also be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted.&nbsp;

If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.&nbsp;

Citizens can also send written comments or questions to City Commissioners by visiting the City of Salina’s website at<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.salina-ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and using the “Email City Commission” icon on the home page.&nbsp;

To see the full meeting packet for today,&nbsp;<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=524351&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina&amp;cr=1">click here.</a>&nbsp;

The City Commission will meet for a study session preceding today's meeting at 2:30 p.m. to discuss the purchasing of a new fire apparatus.

To view the study session packet <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=524350&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here.</a>&nbsp;

Public Hearing for Issuance of $35,000,000 Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds and Approval of Resolution No. 23-8167 for Salina Destination Development, LLC.

Salina has faced an increasing need for additional housing to support workforce expansion and relocation of businesses to the City of Salina. The City of Salina has initiated numerous incentives to address this housing shortfall.

 ● Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts (RHID-formerly known as Rural Housing Incentive Districts)

● Moderate Income Housing (MIH) program and financial grants, etc. to encourage and promote housing development. 

As an additional incentive to develop housing in the Salina market and working closely with local legislators, the Kansas legislature awarded the City of Salina a 25 million dollar grant for housing that was predicated on providing housing to support additional jobs
A request for proposal (RFP) for housing within the City of Salina was produced and the 25 million dollar grant from the state was utilized to encourage responses.

 There were 13 respondents to the RFP for housing.
The RFP did not mandate any specific location and respondents were able to propose their own designs and location for the housing units. Respondents to the RFP were then reviewed by City staff and respondents were ranked based on their proposals. 4 of the top-ranking respondents to the RFP had a follow up interview with the Salina City Commission.


Salina Destination Development LLC (SDD) was among the four respondents interviewed by the Salina City Commission and was selected by the City Commission as their preferred approach and staif were directed to initiate a Development Agreement (DA) with SDD. 

SDD selected the parcel of land, shown on the map above, for their Phase 1 development.
The City of Salina entered a DA on November 6th, 2023, with SDD. This DA for Phase 1 encompasses 250 1- and 2-bedroom apartments that will be located west of I-135 and Magnolia Road (see Maps).


For Phase 1 of this development with the 250 apartments, slightly over ½ ($13.0) million of this grant will be utilized for ground acquisition and to support the costs in constructing these apartments. 8 million of this 13 million will be reimbursement as apartments come online, 4 million will support infrastructure costs and 1 million will support land acquisition. The 1 million will support land acquisition for both Phase 1 and Phase 2. 

Phase 1 will encompass an approximately $35 million capital investment and will generate 7 new permanent jobs to support the management, maintenance, and leasing of the apartments in the first year and 1 additional job in both Years two and three for a cumulative total of nine jobs.


These nine jobs would be separate and distinct from the jobs created during the construction of the apartments
County approval is required if the property is not located within City boundaries. Annexation is proceeding for the land but will not be complete until mid-December at the earliest. As such, on November 28th the Salina County Commission will be asked to approve the issuance of IRBs for this project. This will remove the requirement to wait for approval until after annexation is complete&nbsp;&nbsp;

Approve the minutes of the meeting of November 20, 2023.

Authorize the Mayor to sign a letter of recommendation communicating to the United States Department of Transportation the City of Salina's preferred airline selection, SkyWest under the Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;

Commercial air service in Salina is provided through the federal Essential Air Service Program (EAS) as approved by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).

Locally, the Salina Airport Authority (SAA) is responsible for administering this process and working with the assigned airline. A rebidding of this service has taken place this year with bids ultimately being submitted on November 14.

Following the submission deadline and after reviewing the submittals, Tim Rogers, SAA Executive Director provided a memo summarizing SAA's review of the proposals and their recommendation.

The USDOT affords communities and stakeholders the opportunity to provide letters of support or recommendation as part of their selection process. Mr. Rogers has asked on behalf of the Salina Airport Authority that the City of Salina submit a letter of support for the Skywest proposal.

Approve Resolution No. 23-8169 declaring the necessity to acquire firefighting equipment, providing for the issuance of general obligation bonds of the City of Salina to pay for such equipment, and authorizing the publication of the Notice of Intent.

Approve Resolution No. 23-8168 authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with Jennifer Dahlstrom to provide indigent counsel services for the Salina Municipal Court.

Authorize City staff preparation of a special assessment engineering feasibility report for phase II of Lakeview Estates Additions No. 2 and 3.

Authorize City staff preparation of a special assessment engineering feasibility report for Phase I of Magnolia Hills Estates Addition No. 3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467290838.jpeg" alt="The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Salina City Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and via Zoom.&nbsp; Meetings can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.&nbsp;To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.&nbsp;The meeting can also be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted.&nbsp;If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.&nbsp;Citizens can also send written comments or questions to City Commissioners by visiting the City of Salina’s website at<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.salina-ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and using the “Email City Commission” icon on the home page.&nbsp;To see the full meeting packet for today,&nbsp;<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=524351&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina&amp;cr=1">click here.</a>&nbsp;<h2>Study Session</h2>The City Commission will meet for a study session preceding today's meeting at 2:30 p.m. to discuss the purchasing of a new fire apparatus.To view the study session packet <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=524350&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here.</a>&nbsp;<h2>Public Hearings</h2>Public Hearing for Issuance of $35,000,000 Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds and Approval of Resolution No. 23-8167 for Salina Destination Development, LLC.Background:Salina has faced an increasing need for additional housing to support workforce expansion and relocation of businesses to the City of Salina. The City of Salina has initiated numerous incentives to address this housing shortfall.These incentives have included: ● Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts (RHID-formerly known as Rural Housing Incentive Districts)● Moderate Income Housing (MIH) program and financial grants, etc. to encourage and promote housing development. As an additional incentive to develop housing in the Salina market and working closely with local legislators, the Kansas legislature awarded the City of Salina a 25 million dollar grant for housing that was predicated on providing housing to support additional jobs
A request for proposal (RFP) for housing within the City of Salina was produced and the 25 million dollar grant from the state was utilized to encourage responses. There were 13 respondents to the RFP for housing.
The RFP did not mandate any specific location and respondents were able to propose their own designs and location for the housing units. Respondents to the RFP were then reviewed by City staff and respondents were ranked based on their proposals. 4 of the top-ranking respondents to the RFP had a follow up interview with the Salina City Commission.
Salina Destination Development LLC (SDD) was among the four respondents interviewed by the Salina City Commission and was selected by the City Commission as their preferred approach and staif were directed to initiate a Development Agreement (DA) with SDD. SDD selected the parcel of land, shown on the map above, for their Phase 1 development.
The City of Salina entered a DA on November 6th, 2023, with SDD. This DA for Phase 1 encompasses 250 1- and 2-bedroom apartments that will be located west of I-135 and Magnolia Road (see Maps).
For Phase 1 of this development with the 250 apartments, slightly over ½ ($13.0) million of this grant will be utilized for ground acquisition and to support the costs in constructing these apartments. 8 million of this 13 million will be reimbursement as apartments come online, 4 million will support infrastructure costs and 1 million will support land acquisition. The 1 million will support land acquisition for both Phase 1 and Phase 2. Phase 1 will encompass an approximately $35 million capital investment and will generate 7 new permanent jobs to support the management, maintenance, and leasing of the apartments in the first year and 1 additional job in both Years two and three for a cumulative total of nine jobs.
These nine jobs would be separate and distinct from the jobs created during the construction of the apartments
County approval is required if the property is not located within City boundaries. Annexation is proceeding for the land but will not be complete until mid-December at the earliest. As such, on November 28th the Salina County Commission will be asked to approve the issuance of IRBs for this project. This will remove the requirement to wait for approval until after annexation is complete&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>CONSENT AGENDA</h2>Approve the minutes of the meeting of November 20, 2023.<h2>Administration</h2>Authorize the Mayor to sign a letter of recommendation communicating to the United States Department of Transportation the City of Salina's preferred airline selection, SkyWest under the Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;Background:Commercial air service in Salina is provided through the federal Essential Air Service Program (EAS) as approved by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).Locally, the Salina Airport Authority (SAA) is responsible for administering this process and working with the assigned airline. A rebidding of this service has taken place this year with bids ultimately being submitted on November 14.Following the submission deadline and after reviewing the submittals, Tim Rogers, SAA Executive Director provided a memo summarizing SAA's review of the proposals and their recommendation.The USDOT affords communities and stakeholders the opportunity to provide letters of support or recommendation as part of their selection process. Mr. Rogers has asked on behalf of the Salina Airport Authority that the City of Salina submit a letter of support for the Skywest proposal.Other Administrative itemsApprove Resolution No. 23-8169 declaring the necessity to acquire firefighting equipment, providing for the issuance of general obligation bonds of the City of Salina to pay for such equipment, and authorizing the publication of the Notice of Intent.Approve Resolution No. 23-8168 authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with Jennifer Dahlstrom to provide indigent counsel services for the Salina Municipal Court.<h2>Development Business</h2>Authorize City staff preparation of a special assessment engineering feasibility report for phase II of Lakeview Estates Additions No. 2 and 3.Authorize City staff preparation of a special assessment engineering feasibility report for Phase I of Magnolia Hills Estates Addition No. 3.

Possible purchase of new fire apparatus, housing incentives public hearing, Salina City Commission agenda

Snow covered Salina in a 5-inch layer of accumulation, blanketing memorable locations like Oakdale Park and Santa Fe Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016547300.jpeg" alt="Snow on an autumn leaf near Pioneer Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow on an autumn leaf near Pioneer Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSnow covered Salina in a 5-inch layer of accumulation, blanketing memorable locations like Oakdale Park and Santa Fe Avenue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016690336.jpeg" alt="The Union Pacific engine 477 at Oakdale Park during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Union Pacific engine 477 at Oakdale Park during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016794734.jpeg" alt="Downtown Santa Fe Avenue at the Stiefel Theatre covered in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Santa Fe Avenue at the Stiefel Theatre covered in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016432379.jpeg" alt="Downtown Salina on Santa Fe Avenue blanketed in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Salina on Santa Fe Avenue blanketed in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016713247.jpeg" alt="Oakdale Park was blanketed with snow during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Oakdale Park was blanketed with snow during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016826196.jpeg" alt="Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Snow blankets the Salina City and Saline County building during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016645030.jpeg" alt="Pioneer Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Pioneer Hall at Kansas Wesleyan University during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016621233.jpeg" alt="The Kansas State University Salina sign during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas State University Salina sign during a snowstorm on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

📸 Snowy Salina — Five inches of snow falls on the city 

Snowflakes blanketed Kansas with multiple inches of accumulation on Saturday, with McPherson recording 7.8 inches of snow for the city.

That was not the most snow that fell in Kansas, though, with cities like Hutchinson and Pratt recording almost 10 inches.

Salina — 5 inches Beloit — 1 inch Ellsworth — 3 inches Lindsborg — 7 inches Abilene — 6.1 inches Minneapolis — 2 inches Tescott — 2 inches McPherson — 7.8 inches&nbsp; Assaria — 6 inches

To see more snowfall totals, visit the <a href="https://maps.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS maps</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701016432379.jpeg" alt="Downtown Salina on Santa Fe Avenue blanketed in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Salina on Santa Fe Avenue blanketed in snow on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTSnowflakes blanketed Kansas with multiple inches of accumulation on Saturday, with McPherson recording 7.8 inches of snow for the city.That was not the most snow that fell in Kansas, though, with cities like Hutchinson and Pratt recording almost 10 inches.<h2>Area Totals</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701029675546.jpeg" alt="Snow totals Nov. 26 2023" />
 <figcaption>Snow totals Nov. 26 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina — 5 inches Beloit — 1 inch Ellsworth — 3 inches Lindsborg — 7 inches Abilene — 6.1 inches Minneapolis — 2 inches Tescott — 2 inches McPherson — 7.8 inches&nbsp; Assaria — 6 inchesTo see more snowfall totals, visit the <a href="https://maps.cocorahs.org/">CoCoRaHS maps</a>.

Multiple inches for Salina — many more across the state: Snowfall totals this weekend

Temperatures plummeted this week in Salina, with the recorded temperature from Saturday, Nov. 18, at 70 degrees and this Saturday, Nov. 25, with an expected low of 23 degrees.

Randy Picking, 910 KINA Coffee Talk Co-Host, said during the morning talk show, "Four inches is what the models that I follow are forecasting. The good news is, wind is not going to be a problem."

Wind chills may not be a problem on Saturday while multiple inches of snow accumulates. Still, according to Saline County Emergency Management Deputy Director Natasha Cundy, Sunday morning would be frosty.

"Sunday, the windchill is going to be in the single digits, so be prepared to bundle up if you're going outside," Cundy said. "Remember, if you have to shovel snow, it will be heavy due to the wet snow conditions."

Current predictions from the Wichita National Weather Service show a few more inches of snowfall for the Salina region, with expected precipitation to accumulate quickly during the day.

Sunday and Monday will follow with single-digit wind chills during the early morning hours, followed by afternoon temperatures around 40 degrees.

According to Wichita NWS Meteorologist Vanessa Pearce, the predicted snowfall for Salina will be around five to seven inches.

Some parts of the state may see more of a wintery mix than snow, but snowpack is likely for north and western Kansas towns.

"We're thinking it'll be snow up there — you won't see that mix," Pearce said. "The mix will be more across South Central into Southeast Kansas, kind of closer to the Kansas turnpike."

Wichita NWS predicted that 3 p.m. would be the peak of Saturday's storm,  with a predicted high temperature of 33 degrees.

This storm will likely cause reduced visibility in the afternoon, and the thick snowfall will cause slick conditions for motor vehicles.

"It's falling during the daytime hours when people are out and about or trying to do different activities," Pearce said. "Especially with the rates that are going to be occurring — the snowfall rates are going to cause that accumulation."

Pearce warned against unnecessary travel during the afternoon storm, encouraging residents to push plans to Sunday when the snow will have entirely left the state.

The predicted temperatures for Sunday remain in the low 40s, but travel should be safer due to clear skies and drier driving conditions.

"If you can, adjust your travel plans to a different day or time," Pearce said. "That would be highly encouraged — avoid any kind of going out if you don't need to on Saturday."

● Saline County: Winter Storm ● Ellsworth County: Winter Storm Warning ● Ottawa County:&nbsp;Winter Storm Warning ● Lincoln County:&nbsp;Winter Storm Warning ● Russell County: Winter Storm Warning ● Dickinson&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Warning ● Mitchell&nbsp;County: N/A ● Clay&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Advisory ● Marion&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Warning ● Cloud&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Advisory

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700862631197.jpeg" alt="The season's first winter storm is set to impact the area early Saturday morning through late Saturday night. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>The season's first winter storm is set to impact the area early Saturday morning through late Saturday night. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostTemperatures plummeted this week in Salina, with the recorded temperature from Saturday, Nov. 18, at 70 degrees and this Saturday, Nov. 25, with an expected low of 23 degrees.Randy Picking, 910 KINA Coffee Talk Co-Host, said during the morning talk show, "Four inches is what the models that I follow are forecasting. The good news is, wind is not going to be a problem."Wind chills may not be a problem on Saturday while multiple inches of snow accumulates. Still, according to Saline County Emergency Management Deputy Director Natasha Cundy, Sunday morning would be frosty."Sunday, the windchill is going to be in the single digits, so be prepared to bundle up if you're going outside," Cundy said. "Remember, if you have to shovel snow, it will be heavy due to the wet snow conditions."Current predictions from the Wichita National Weather Service show a few more inches of snowfall for the Salina region, with expected precipitation to accumulate quickly during the day.Sunday and Monday will follow with single-digit wind chills during the early morning hours, followed by afternoon temperatures around 40 degrees.According to Wichita NWS Meteorologist Vanessa Pearce, the predicted snowfall for Salina will be around five to seven inches.Some parts of the state may see more of a wintery mix than snow, but snowpack is likely for north and western Kansas towns."We're thinking it'll be snow up there — you won't see that mix," Pearce said. "The mix will be more across South Central into Southeast Kansas, kind of closer to the Kansas turnpike."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700862690714.jpeg" alt="The season's first winter storm is set to impact the area early Saturday morning through late Saturday night. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>The season's first winter storm is set to impact the area early Saturday morning through late Saturday night. Graphic courtesy Wichita National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita NWS predicted that 3 p.m. would be the peak of Saturday's storm, with a predicted high temperature of 33 degrees.This storm will likely cause reduced visibility in the afternoon, and the thick snowfall will cause slick conditions for motor vehicles."It's falling during the daytime hours when people are out and about or trying to do different activities," Pearce said. "Especially with the rates that are going to be occurring — the snowfall rates are going to cause that accumulation."Pearce warned against unnecessary travel during the afternoon storm, encouraging residents to push plans to Sunday when the snow will have entirely left the state.The predicted temperatures for Sunday remain in the low 40s, but travel should be safer due to clear skies and drier driving conditions."If you can, adjust your travel plans to a different day or time," Pearce said. "That would be highly encouraged — avoid any kind of going out if you don't need to on Saturday."<h2>Local Weather Advisories</h2>● Saline County: Winter Storm ● Ellsworth County: Winter Storm Warning ● Ottawa County:&nbsp;Winter Storm Warning ● Lincoln County:&nbsp;Winter Storm Warning ● Russell County: Winter Storm Warning ● Dickinson&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Warning ● Mitchell&nbsp;County: N/A ● Clay&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Advisory ● Marion&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Warning ● Cloud&nbsp;County: Winter Storm Advisory

NWS Meteorologist urges travelers to adjust plans for Saturday's winter storm

More than 500 volunteers and church members from The Ark Church in Salina shared the love on Saturday by giving out Thanksgiving groceries to 600 families.&nbsp;

The Sixth Annual Ark Salina Thanksgiving Grocery Giveaway brought a total of 600&nbsp;cars—some arriving as early as 5 a.m. to&nbsp;the Dean Evans Stadium,&nbsp;851 Markley Road,&nbsp;in Salina.&nbsp;

As cars entered the parking lot that morning, The Ark Lead Pastor and Salina native, John Huseman, began to pray with volunteers.

"It's the chance for us to bless the community. It's a chance for us to reach out and help people that might be hurting or might be going through a tough time," Huseman said. "We'd love to just love this city. There's a big sign in our auditorium that says love our city, and this is one of the ways that we do that."

"It is more than just food. We're adding hope, we're adding care — not just to people in this line, but to each other as well. Let's be joyous. Let's be excited. Let's be thankful," Huseman said to volunteers before he led them in prayer.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings/">According to the USDA food prices grew by 6.3% in 2023</a>—higher than average, but not as bad as the more than 11% increase we saw last year. People across the country, and in Saline County, are struggling to put a holiday meal on the table for their loved ones and families.&nbsp;

Vehicles pulled out of the&nbsp;parking lot with more than $100 in groceries, including frozen chicken nuggets, bread, a bag of Idaho potatoes, frozen hamburger, peanut butter and jelly, corn, frozen pizzas, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In total roughly the Ark church gave out $66,000 worth of groceries.&nbsp;

Line leaders guided and organized the cars into a grid in the parking lot. Once the food service teams were ready to place food in the vehicles, column after column of vehicles made their way through a tunnel of people waving and sharing messages of blessings and kindness.&nbsp;

"We hear testimonies all the time. It's like they [volunteers] get more out of it than any other thing that they do all year," Huseman said. "So they feel value, they feel purpose, it's able to extend the love of God so they love it."

Back in 2017 the giveaway was held at Ace Hardware in Salina. With only 100 volunteers, the group helped merely half of the number of families they helped this year. Thanks to community interest and the need for more helpers during the holidays, the volunteer team continues to grow year after year.&nbsp;

Don Petty said he learned about the giveaway from a friend.

"This is our third year coming. Makes me and my family eat better that's for sure," Petty said. "There's people out there that really care about the rest of us, And yeah, it makes me feel real good, warm."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504489915.jpeg" alt="Ark Church members and volunteers organize groceries by type for the 600 cars waiting in the parking lot on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Ark Church members and volunteers organize groceries by type for the 600 cars waiting in the parking lot on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING Salina PostMore than 500 volunteers and church members from The Ark Church in Salina shared the love on Saturday by giving out Thanksgiving groceries to 600 families.&nbsp;The Sixth Annual Ark Salina Thanksgiving Grocery Giveaway brought a total of 600&nbsp;cars—some arriving as early as 5 a.m. to&nbsp;the Dean Evans Stadium,&nbsp;851 Markley Road,&nbsp;in Salina.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504665946.jpeg" alt="Isaac Rodriguez, left, and Jessyln Stuart, right, pack groceries in the trunk of a vehicle during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Isaac Rodriguez, left, and Jessyln Stuart, right, pack groceries in the trunk of a vehicle during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>As cars entered the parking lot that morning, The Ark Lead Pastor and Salina native, John Huseman, began to pray with volunteers."It's the chance for us to bless the community. It's a chance for us to reach out and help people that might be hurting or might be going through a tough time," Huseman said. "We'd love to just love this city. There's a big sign in our auditorium that says love our city, and this is one of the ways that we do that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504542282.jpeg" alt="600 cars line up in wait for free groceries during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>600 cars line up in wait for free groceries during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"It is more than just food. We're adding hope, we're adding care — not just to people in this line, but to each other as well. Let's be joyous. Let's be excited. Let's be thankful," Huseman said to volunteers before he led them in prayer.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings/">According to the USDA food prices grew by 6.3% in 2023</a>—higher than average, but not as bad as the more than 11% increase we saw last year. People across the country, and in Saline County, are struggling to put a holiday meal on the table for their loved ones and families.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504503865.jpeg" alt="Groceries sit ready for the first of 600 cars sitting in wait for the 2023 Ark Chruch Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Groceries sit ready for the first of 600 cars sitting in wait for the 2023 Ark Chruch Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Vehicles pulled out of the&nbsp;parking lot with more than $100 in groceries, including frozen chicken nuggets, bread, a bag of Idaho potatoes, frozen hamburger, peanut butter and jelly, corn, frozen pizzas, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;In total roughly the Ark church gave out $66,000 worth of groceries.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504523347.jpeg" alt="600 cars line up in wait for free groceries during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>600 cars line up in wait for free groceries during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504637646.jpeg" alt="Kaysi Armstrong, right, and Pillup Klause, left, place groceries in the back of a pickup truck during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kaysi Armstrong, right, and Pillup Klause, left, place groceries in the back of a pickup truck during the 2023 Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Line leaders guided and organized the cars into a grid in the parking lot. Once the food service teams were ready to place food in the vehicles, column after column of vehicles made their way through a tunnel of people waving and sharing messages of blessings and kindness.&nbsp;"We hear testimonies all the time. It's like they [volunteers] get more out of it than any other thing that they do all year," Huseman said. "So they feel value, they feel purpose, it's able to extend the love of God so they love it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504603281.jpeg" alt="Volunteers wait for the first cars to pull up to the giveaway stations during the 2023 Ark Church Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers wait for the first cars to pull up to the giveaway stations during the 2023 Ark Church Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Back in 2017 the giveaway was held at Ace Hardware in Salina. With only 100 volunteers, the group helped merely half of the number of families they helped this year. Thanks to community interest and the need for more helpers during the holidays, the volunteer team continues to grow year after year.&nbsp;Don Petty said he learned about the giveaway from a friend."This is our third year coming. Makes me and my family eat better that's for sure," Petty said. "There's people out there that really care about the rest of us, And yeah, it makes me feel real good, warm."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700504433816.jpeg" alt="Blythe and Mia Lobdell, 10 and 13 years old, carry cases of chicken tenders during the Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Blythe and Mia Lobdell, 10 and 13 years old, carry cases of chicken tenders during the Ark Church Grocery Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18, in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>

Spreading blessings: Salina church gives Thanksgiving groceries to 600 families

The Saline County Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and via online stream.&nbsp; Meetings can be viewed at the Saline County Kansas YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams</a>.&nbsp;

If citizens wish to speak during the meeting, those who attend in person will have the opportunity to speak at the podium. Topics that residents want to talk about must not be present on the agenda for that day's meeting.

If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;leamerm@salinecountyks.gov&nbsp;before the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.

To see the complete meeting packet for this week's meeting,<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/FileStream.ashx?DocumentId=6379">&nbsp;click here.&nbsp;</a>

Consent Agenda 10-1-2023 Health Plan Amendment 02 and Dental Plan Amendment

RFD #5 - Community Leasing Partners Contract for Approved Squad Unit Purchase

2023 General Election Certification&nbsp;

Action Items SCBA Bottles for RFD #1

Reallocation of ARPA Funds Background: On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was signed into law. The act provides direct funding to each county in the United States through the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Relief Fund (CLFRF.) Saline County received $10,532,376 from the CLFRF. The funds are to be spent on specified purposes primarily related to economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The County has allocated funds for various projects such as supporting air service, studying the impact of fines and fees on residents involved in the criminal justice system, housing development, business incubators, and support for nonprofits. 

There is still funding available for reallocation, and the County has a backup list of projects to fund with any unspent funds.

Community Legislative Platform for 2024

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467290838.jpeg" alt="The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Saline County Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and via online stream.&nbsp; Meetings can be viewed at the Saline County Kansas YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@salinecountykansas3125/streams</a>.&nbsp;If citizens wish to speak during the meeting, those who attend in person will have the opportunity to speak at the podium. Topics that residents want to talk about must not be present on the agenda for that day's meeting.If you need any assistance in participating in any meeting or event due to a disability as defined under ADA, please call the County’s ADA Coordinator at (785) 309-5812 or email&nbsp;leamerm@salinecountyks.gov&nbsp;before the scheduled meeting or event to request accommodations.To see the complete meeting packet for this week's meeting,<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/FileStream.ashx?DocumentId=6379">&nbsp;click here.&nbsp;</a><h2>AGENDA</h2>Consent Agenda 10-1-2023 Health Plan Amendment 02 and Dental Plan AmendmentRFD #5 - Community Leasing Partners Contract for Approved Squad Unit Purchase2023 General Election Certification&nbsp;Action Items SCBA Bottles for RFD #1Reallocation of ARPA Funds Background: On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was signed into law. The act provides direct funding to each county in the United States through the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Relief Fund (CLFRF.) Saline County received $10,532,376 from the CLFRF. The funds are to be spent on specified purposes primarily related to economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The County has allocated funds for various projects such as supporting air service, studying the impact of fines and fees on residents involved in the criminal justice system, housing development, business incubators, and support for nonprofits. There is still funding available for reallocation, and the County has a backup list of projects to fund with any unspent funds. Informational ItemsCommunity Legislative Platform for 2024 Human Resources Quarterly UpdateCapital Improvement Plan UpdateConcept DiscussionDiscussion of Gas Service Contract

Election certification and reallocation of federal dollars on Saline County Commission agenda

The Stiefel Theatre Stage hosted a different type of performance on Thursday, Nov. 9 — an event centered around Salina's performance through the years, economically and culturally.

Vortex's President and CEO, Travis Young, took to the stage and presented the "Salina Flywheel," representing how Salina drives its economic power.

"This community is moving and retaining our businesses," Young said. "It's attracting new businesses and people, and we're doing a great job." 

On Thursday, Nov. 9, Salina Public Schools USD 305 hosted its third Building Bridges night, allowing business owners, local experts, students and the community to interact and learn more about each other's specialties.

Building Bridges is a partnership event between <a href="https://www.usd305.com/">USD 305</a>, <a href="https://ksworkforceone.org/">Kansas WorkforceOne</a>, <a href="https://seama.org/">The Garage</a>, <a href="https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">The Stiefel Theatre</a> and the <a href="https://www.salinakansas.org/">Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</a>.&nbsp;

"The goal of the program is to get businesses together and share ideas," said USD 305 Secondary Education Director Curtis Stevens. "This is an opportunity really for us to expose the students to what exists in employment. It helps them make connections for internships, possible summer jobs, and employment training opportunities that exist here in Salina."

The evening began with USD 305 culinary interns providing finger foods to event guests. At 5:30, Stevens welcomed guests and introduced Young to the stage.

Stevens began by telling Salina's story, referencing the significant economic impact Schilling Air Force Base once had on the community and how it continues to affect Salina today.

"Our community values connecting people and connecting different ideas, not resting on our laurels of past success. However, this has not always been the case," Stevens said. "For the longest time, Salina was very similar to many communities, businesses, and organizations — simply put — it once relied heavily upon its previous success."

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f9bb28db-e546-4fc5-b562-5ea997342379">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Smoky Hill Museum - Vol. 15</a>

Schilling Air Force Base once accounted for a quarter of Salina's population and almost a third of its economic value, and when the base closed, it took all the added value with it.

Stevens said many local businesses and residents thought the town would fall into irrelevancy after the base left. 

Still, with a few driven community members, the city shifted its focus to growth.

"This one piece of the nation's military arsenal would be transitioned into a huge piece of our local economy, moving us from a small western town of local peddlers to a town of products on a global enterprise."

Young then took the stage, presenting how Salina businesses and non-profit groups impact the city and its growth.

According to Young, Salina's businesses, murals, and community contribute to the town's success, providing unique experiences for locals and visitors.

"We're creating unique life experiences," Young said. "If we do that, we can't help but increase visitation, and we have done that... If we increase visitation, we can't help but generate more commerce — we're getting that flywheel going. New businesses, new restaurants and new retail distribution centers are opening, things that Salina has never seen before." 

After concluding his speech, Building Bridges hosted multiple breakout sessions focusing on industries like marketing, STEM careers and education.

The breakout sessions focused on recruiting and building up employees, ways to lead, and critical factors in the industries.

Salina South High School student Jose Garcia, 17, attended with two other students and learned new things about the community during Young's presentation.

"(Young) mentioned all the things that they're doing and changing," Garcia said. "I think a lot of people my age are like, 'Oh, when I grow up I'm going to leave — Salina is terrible,' but I feel like I haven't really felt that. I really enjoy Salina, it's a nice community, and I think it's cool that they're trying to change for the better."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699915031284.jpeg" alt="Salina USD 305 Director of Secondary Education Curtis Stevens, speaks during the third Building Bridges event on Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Salina USD 305 Director of Secondary Education Curtis Stevens, speaks during the third Building Bridges event on Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostThe Stiefel Theatre Stage hosted a different type of performance on Thursday, Nov. 9 — an event centered around Salina's performance through the years, economically and culturally.Vortex's President and CEO, Travis Young, took to the stage and presented the "Salina Flywheel," representing how Salina drives its economic power.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUSD305%2Fvideos%2F1031017071281969%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Video created by USD 305"This community is moving and retaining our businesses," Young said. "It's attracting new businesses and people, and we're doing a great job." On Thursday, Nov. 9, Salina Public Schools USD 305 hosted its third Building Bridges night, allowing business owners, local experts, students and the community to interact and learn more about each other's specialties.Building Bridges is a partnership event between <a href="https://www.usd305.com/">USD 305</a>, <a href="https://ksworkforceone.org/">Kansas WorkforceOne</a>, <a href="https://seama.org/">The Garage</a>, <a href="https://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">The Stiefel Theatre</a> and the <a href="https://www.salinakansas.org/">Salina Area Chamber of Commerce</a>.&nbsp;"The goal of the program is to get businesses together and share ideas," said USD 305 Secondary Education Director Curtis Stevens. "This is an opportunity really for us to expose the students to what exists in employment. It helps them make connections for internships, possible summer jobs, and employment training opportunities that exist here in Salina."The evening began with USD 305 culinary interns providing finger foods to event guests. At 5:30, Stevens welcomed guests and introduced Young to the stage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699915070085.jpeg" alt="Travis Young talks about the "Salina Flywheel" during the third Building Bridges event on Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Travis Young talks about the "Salina Flywheel" during the third Building Bridges event on Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Stevens began by telling Salina's story, referencing the significant economic impact Schilling Air Force Base once had on the community and how it continues to affect Salina today."Our community values connecting people and connecting different ideas, not resting on our laurels of past success. However, this has not always been the case," Stevens said. "For the longest time, Salina was very similar to many communities, businesses, and organizations — simply put — it once relied heavily upon its previous success."READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f9bb28db-e546-4fc5-b562-5ea997342379">📸 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Smoky Hill Museum - Vol. 15</a>Schilling Air Force Base once accounted for a quarter of Salina's population and almost a third of its economic value, and when the base closed, it took all the added value with it.Stevens said many local businesses and residents thought the town would fall into irrelevancy after the base left. Still, with a few driven community members, the city shifted its focus to growth."This one piece of the nation's military arsenal would be transitioned into a huge piece of our local economy, moving us from a small western town of local peddlers to a town of products on a global enterprise."Young then took the stage, presenting how Salina businesses and non-profit groups impact the city and its growth.According to Young, Salina's businesses, murals, and community contribute to the town's success, providing unique experiences for locals and visitors."We're creating unique life experiences," Young said. "If we do that, we can't help but increase visitation, and we have done that... If we increase visitation, we can't help but generate more commerce — we're getting that flywheel going. New businesses, new restaurants and new retail distribution centers are opening, things that Salina has never seen before." After concluding his speech, Building Bridges hosted multiple breakout sessions focusing on industries like marketing, STEM careers and education.The breakout sessions focused on recruiting and building up employees, ways to lead, and critical factors in the industries.Salina South High School student Jose Garcia, 17, attended with two other students and learned new things about the community during Young's presentation."(Young) mentioned all the things that they're doing and changing," Garcia said. "I think a lot of people my age are like, 'Oh, when I grow up I'm going to leave — Salina is terrible,' but I feel like I haven't really felt that. I really enjoy Salina, it's a nice community, and I think it's cool that they're trying to change for the better."

Building Bridges looks to future between education and industry in Salina

In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.&nbsp;

To see the full meeting packet for today,<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=521313&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">&nbsp;click here.</a>&nbsp;

(3.1) Proclamation of November 25, 2023, as Shop Small Saturday. Leslie Bishop, Salina Downtown, Inc. Executive Director, will read the proclamation.

(5.1)  Approve the minutes of the meeting of November 13, 2023.

(6.1) Approve Charter Ordinance 43 on second reading exempting the City of Salina from certain parts of chapter 308 (Senate Bill 508) of the Session Laws of 1937, as amended by chapter 250 (Senate Bill 341) of the Session Laws of 1939, an act authorizing certain cities of the first class to convey certain property to the board of education of such city.

(6.2) Approval of Salina Area Chamber of Commerce 2024 Legislative Agenda.

Background: The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking state and federal funds for several projects including the Smoky Hill River Renewal Project, Magnolia Road improvements, Holmes Road improvements, investments at Kansas State's Salina campus, and the AIM Center at the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4a553ba1-ce17-480b-81f2-7e6737c6f186">Salina Airport Authority</a>.

<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=522051&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">Click here to view all of the Salina Chamber's legislative priorities, click here.&nbsp;</a>

(6.3a) Authorize the City Manager to Execute Renewals of Agreement for Administrative Services for a Self-Funded Health and Prescription Benefit Plan and Individual and Aggregate Stop-loss Coverage with BlueCross BlueShield of Kansas

(6.3b) Authorize the City Manager to renew Delta Dental of Kansas, Inc. agreement for dental care benefits.

(6.3c) Authorize the City Manager to approve an amendment to the agreement with Tria Health for medication therapy management.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467290838.jpeg" alt="The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Salina City Commission meeting will take place in–person at the City/County Building in Room 107 and via Zoom.&nbsp; Meetings can be viewed at the City of Salina YouTube channel,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.&nbsp;To participate via Zoom, citizens will need to use the following link:&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587" target="_blank">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>.&nbsp;The meeting can also be accessed by phone at 1-346-248-7799. Enter Meeting ID: 892 7598 4587 when prompted.&nbsp;If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens attending via Zoom must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak. Those who attend the in-person meeting will have the opportunity to speak at the podium.&nbsp;Citizens can also send written comments or questions to City Commissioners by visiting the City of Salina’s website at<a href="http://www.salina-ks.gov/" target="_blank">&nbsp;www.salina-ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and using the “Email City Commission” icon on the home page.&nbsp;In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.&nbsp;To see the full meeting packet for today,<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=521313&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">&nbsp;click here.</a>&nbsp;<h2>Salina City Commision Agenda 11/20/23</h2>Awards and Proclamations<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinadowntowninc%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0PDidpVAvjZjKRPgEqPy1MLRpmi4kZ4DT7AJerPrqFk8RrHHNRKosf2kVfxA8swJel&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="629" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>(3.1) Proclamation of November 25, 2023, as Shop Small Saturday. Leslie Bishop, Salina Downtown, Inc. Executive Director, will read the proclamation.Consent Agenda (5.1) Approve the minutes of the meeting of November 13, 2023.Administration(6.1) Approve Charter Ordinance 43 on second reading exempting the City of Salina from certain parts of chapter 308 (Senate Bill 508) of the Session Laws of 1937, as amended by chapter 250 (Senate Bill 341) of the Session Laws of 1939, an act authorizing certain cities of the first class to convey certain property to the board of education of such city.(6.2) Approval of Salina Area Chamber of Commerce 2024 Legislative Agenda.Background: The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking state and federal funds for several projects including the Smoky Hill River Renewal Project, Magnolia Road improvements, Holmes Road improvements, investments at Kansas State's Salina campus, and the AIM Center at the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/4a553ba1-ce17-480b-81f2-7e6737c6f186">Salina Airport Authority</a>. <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=522051&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">Click here to view all of the Salina Chamber's legislative priorities, click here.&nbsp;</a>(6.3) Insurance Agreement Renewals(6.3a) Authorize the City Manager to Execute Renewals of Agreement for Administrative Services for a Self-Funded Health and Prescription Benefit Plan and Individual and Aggregate Stop-loss Coverage with BlueCross BlueShield of Kansas(6.3b) Authorize the City Manager to renew Delta Dental of Kansas, Inc. agreement for dental care benefits.(6.3c) Authorize the City Manager to approve an amendment to the agreement with Tria Health for medication therapy management.

Shop Small Saturday proclamation, approval of Chamber of Commerce legislative agenda on Salina City Comm. agenda

In a turn of events, while numerous Gypsum residents sat in attendance at the Saline County Commission meeting on Nov. 14, <a href="https://www.pluspower.com/">Plus Power</a> retracted its application for a conditional use permit or CUP.

The Saline County Planning and Zoning Committee denied <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6330">Plus Power's request for a CUP</a> during its <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6343">Sept. 26 meeting</a>, and the company <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6346">appealed the decision on Oct. 5</a>.

Plus Power requested a <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6213">continuance for its appeal</a> of the Saline County Planning and Zoning Committee's decision on Nov. 7. County commissioners denied the request to delay the appeal hearing to next year.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c2bcb48f-2879-4970-9e48-030e39d4e61e">Plus Power appeal extension denied at Saline County Commission meeting</a>

The Saline County Commission prepared to hear the appeal and make a decision about the battery storage facility for Gypsum.

All commissioners attended the meeting — Chairman Robert Vidricksen, Vice Chairman Monte Shadwick, remotely, Secretary Rodger Sparks, James Weese and Joe Hay.

Tim Hamilton, the Saline County planning and zoning director, said he usually would let the commissioners discuss amongst themselves and answer questions, but the applicants decided to make a statement.

Hamilton yielded his time to Ben Weisel, the permit director at Mountain Peak Energy Storage, LLC, acting as Plus Power, who approached the podium.

"Mountain Peak Energy Storage, LLC, respectfully withdraws its conditional use permit application," Weisel said.&nbsp;

He continued that this was a difficult decision for the company due to its investment and planning of the project for several years.&nbsp;

"It's become clear to us that the county permit application in its present form does not have a path forward to obtaining the necessary approvals," Weisel said. "It is for this reason we are withdrawing our proposal."

Weisel then thanked the commissioners for their time and consideration of the project and said he hoped to see future discussions about the benefits of battery storage facilities for the community.

County Commission Chairman Robert Vidricksen spoke first.

"We wish to thank you very much for your interest in Saline County, sorry it didn't work out," Vidricksen said. "Your professionalism is appreciated very much, and good luck."

There were no other comments about the subject from the other commissioners.

Technology grants and Expo Center updates

Before the appeal hearing, the Saline County Commission tackled a consent agenda, an action item and some informational items, beginning with technology grants for the community.

In August this year, county commissioners approved a <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6325">$100,000 Digital Equity Grant</a> funded by the county's American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA, funds to distribute to community projects focused on technology access.

"A review committee consisting of Rene Drexler, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, Kimberlyn Jones, Kansas Commerce digital equity program manager and Eric Norris, Manhattan Public Library Director, met via Zoom on Oct. 24, to discuss the applications," said Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy.

McCoy presented five grants the review committee considered.

● $20,630 to the Salina Area United Way To fund equipment for free access points for individuals to use the internet and digital devices for school work, job searching, training and other activities.

● $16,378 to the Salina Grace Foundation Set up a WiFi access point to provide free internet connection, laptops, workstations, basic computer skills training, and job search assistance for guests.

● $8,600 to the Salina Media Connection To create a monthly Spanish connection program for the Salina Spanish-speaking community that focuses on digital literacy, civic education, health, finance, legal advice and general education. The program would be for 10 months and provide quarterly digital literacy classes.

● $4,425 to the Salina Public Library To expand the Salina Public Library Hotspot Lending Program by adding 25 hotspot devices that patrons can check out for free.

● $3,397 to the Salina Public Library To the Salina Public Library Youth Robotics Club, a program for children ages 13 to 17, for nine robotic workshop kits and to encourage digital literacy, creativity, critical thinking and teamwork.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467290838.jpeg" alt="The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County and Salina City building at 300 West Ash Street in Salina. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLIVIA BERGMEIER Salina PostIn a turn of events, while numerous Gypsum residents sat in attendance at the Saline County Commission meeting on Nov. 14, <a href="https://www.pluspower.com/">Plus Power</a> retracted its application for a conditional use permit or CUP.The Saline County Planning and Zoning Committee denied <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6330">Plus Power's request for a CUP</a> during its <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6343">Sept. 26 meeting</a>, and the company <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6346">appealed the decision on Oct. 5</a>.Plus Power requested a <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6213">continuance for its appeal</a> of the Saline County Planning and Zoning Committee's decision on Nov. 7. County commissioners denied the request to delay the appeal hearing to next year.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c2bcb48f-2879-4970-9e48-030e39d4e61e">Plus Power appeal extension denied at Saline County Commission meeting</a>The Saline County Commission prepared to hear the appeal and make a decision about the battery storage facility for Gypsum.All commissioners attended the meeting — Chairman Robert Vidricksen, Vice Chairman Monte Shadwick, remotely, Secretary Rodger Sparks, James Weese and Joe Hay.Tim Hamilton, the Saline County planning and zoning director, said he usually would let the commissioners discuss amongst themselves and answer questions, but the applicants decided to make a statement.Hamilton yielded his time to Ben Weisel, the permit director at Mountain Peak Energy Storage, LLC, acting as Plus Power, who approached the podium."Mountain Peak Energy Storage, LLC, respectfully withdraws its conditional use permit application," Weisel said.&nbsp;He continued that this was a difficult decision for the company due to its investment and planning of the project for several years.&nbsp;"It's become clear to us that the county permit application in its present form does not have a path forward to obtaining the necessary approvals," Weisel said. "It is for this reason we are withdrawing our proposal."Weisel then thanked the commissioners for their time and consideration of the project and said he hoped to see future discussions about the benefits of battery storage facilities for the community.County Commission Chairman Robert Vidricksen spoke first."We wish to thank you very much for your interest in Saline County, sorry it didn't work out," Vidricksen said. "Your professionalism is appreciated very much, and good luck."There were no other comments about the subject from the other commissioners.<h2>Technology grants and Expo Center updates</h2>Before the appeal hearing, the Saline County Commission tackled a consent agenda, an action item and some informational items, beginning with technology grants for the community.In August this year, county commissioners approved a <a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6325">$100,000 Digital Equity Grant</a> funded by the county's American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA, funds to distribute to community projects focused on technology access."A review committee consisting of Rene Drexler, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, Kimberlyn Jones, Kansas Commerce digital equity program manager and Eric Norris, Manhattan Public Library Director, met via Zoom on Oct. 24, to discuss the applications," said Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy.McCoy presented five grants the review committee considered.● $20,630 to the Salina Area United Way To fund equipment for free access points for individuals to use the internet and digital devices for school work, job searching, training and other activities.● $16,378 to the Salina Grace Foundation Set up a WiFi access point to provide free internet connection, laptops, workstations, basic computer skills training, and job search assistance for guests.● $8,600 to the Salina Media Connection To create a monthly Spanish connection program for the Salina Spanish-speaking community that focuses on digital literacy, civic education, health, finance, legal advice and general education. The program would be for 10 months and provide quarterly digital literacy classes.● $4,425 to the Salina Public Library To expand the Salina Public Library Hotspot Lending Program by adding 25 hotspot devices that patrons can check out for free.● $3,397 to the Salina Public Library To the Salina Public Library Youth Robotics Club, a program for children ages 13 to 17, for nine robotic workshop kits and to encourage digital literacy, creativity, critical thinking and teamwork.&nbsp;"The Committee recommends funding for all five applications," McCoy said.&nbsp;The commissioners unanimously approved the 2023 Digital Equity Grant.<a href="https://pub-salinecounty.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=784c948c-ea68-4b41-afcf-2f002c06003b&amp;Agenda=Merged&amp;lang=English&amp;Item=25&amp;Tab=attachments">Other items commissioners approved</a> included a Presbyterian Manor KDOT Letter of Support, the official 2023 election results and continued improvements for the Courtroom Project.The Expo Center Director David Flaherty updated commissioners on Saline County Livestock and Expo Center improvements.