Douglas County public meetings in 2025
49 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Commission Board Meeting
The Commission will consider awarding a $589,624.15 contract for a culvert replacement project and approving appointments for the District Coroner. The agenda also includes a public hearing regarding road maintenance designations and an update on Tenant Right to Counsel.
- Culvert replacement contract for Project 2020-57 with Reece Construction for $589,624.15
- Appointment of Dr. Atlaf Hossain, M.D. for Coroner services through December 31, 2029
- Public hearing regarding rescinding Minimum Maintenance designation on N 1 Road in Palmyra Township
- Cooperation Agreement extension with the City of Lawrence for Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical
- Class “B” Club License approval for The Bird of Lawrence
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider several administrative and public works items. Key discussions include a property purchase in Lawrence, a long-term lease for the Senior Resource Center, and grant program allocations.
- Purchase of property at 579 N. 600 Road, Lawrence, for up to $425,000
- Lease agreement with City of Lawrence for Senior Resource Center at 749 Kentucky Street
- Allocation of $40,000 for the 2026 Natural and Cultural Heritage Grant Program
- Acquisition of easement for CIP Project 2026-B5 to replace a bridge on N1600 Road
- Vacating untraveled roads within the Prairie City townsite
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider consent agenda items including a $2.84 million pavement maintenance contract for Route 5, a $62,500 allocation for truancy services, and a waiver of bidding for juvenile detention nursing services. Regular agenda items include approving the 2026 Legislative Statement, adopting finance policy revisions, and deciding on Bert Nash supplemental funding and a related MOU. The commission will also accept the 2024 Single Audit report and approve an access agreement for a new production center.
- Award $2,835,042.06 contract to Bettis Asphalt & Construction for Route 5 mill and overlay
- Approve $86,953.92 (2026), $92,171.16 (2027), $97,701.42 (2028) for OnBase software maintenance
- Allocate $62,500 for elementary and middle school truancy services
- Waive bidding for Juvenile Detention Center nursing services with Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health
- Approve MOU with Bert Nash for financial support up to $150,000
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider consent agenda items including a $765,012.25 construction contract for two culvert replacements, an updated agreement with KDOT and Lawrence for the South Lawrence Trafficway expansion, and tax roll adjustments. Regular agenda items include increasing a legal services purchase order by $150,000 and approving the Douglas County Crisis Response Coalition charter. Public comment is allowed on each item.
- Award $765,012.25 contract to WCI Inc. for culvert replacements (Projects 2017-58 and 2019-53)
- Execute Supplemental Agreement No. 1 with KDOT and City of Lawrence for South Lawrence Trafficway expansion
- Increase blanket purchase order for 2025 legal services by $150,000
- Approve Douglas County Crisis Response Coalition charter
- Approve Commission Order #25-014 for tax roll adjustments
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is holding a special meeting solely to canvass the resolutions of the November 4, 2025 General Election. This is a procedural step to officially certify the election results. No other business is listed on the agenda.
- Canvass of November 4, 2025 General Election resolutions
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider awarding a five-year, $207,500 contract for insurance brokerage services to Lockton Companies, the recommended bidder from a competitive RFP process. The board will also vote on a resolution to relocate an unused portion of N600 Road right-of-way, and receive informational updates on the 2026 legislative statement and property tax appeals. Public comment is allowed on each agenda item.
- Award insurance brokerage RFP contract to Lockton Companies, $207,500 over up to 5 years
- Resolution No. 25-37 to relocate unused N600 Road right-of-way to current travelway
- Accounts Payable approval
- 2026 Legislative Statement (informational)
- Overview of appeals process and update on Kansas Board of Tax Appeals matters (informational)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will decide whether to participate in a 15-year, 95% Neighborhood Revitalization Area for historic rehabilitation at 612 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, and authorize a cooperative agreement with the City of Lawrence and USD 497. The board will also consider service agreements for supportive housing and a youth apprenticeship grant, plus several public works projects. A work session will cover coordination of care for vulnerable seniors, and a proclamation will honor veterans during Operation Green Light Week.
- 15-year, 95% Neighborhood Revitalization Area for historic rehabilitation at 612 New Hampshire St., Lawrence
- FY 2025 and FY 2026 Service Agreement with Mental Health America of the Heartland for supportive housing
- Youth Apprenticeship Challenge Grant authorization
- Authorization to solicit bids for culvert replacement (Project 2020-57) and bridge deck patch/overlay (Project 2024-B2)
- Easement acquisition for CIP Project 2020-57
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider approving five temporary business use permits for utility-scale solar-related geotechnical site investigation, soil sampling, and underground surveying in specified townships, and will hold an executive session to discuss potential real property acquisition. The agenda also includes routine consent items such as minutes approval, substance use treatment allocations, and accounts payable.
- Approval of Temporary Business Use permits ZTBU-2025-0002 through -0006 for solar-related site investigation in Sections 1, 2, 11, 12, 6, and 7 of Townships 12 South, Ranges 19 and 20 East, valid October 22, 2025 to October 22, 2026
- Executive session for preliminary discussion of real property acquisition and legal consultation
- Consideration of 2025 and 2026 Substance Use Treatment allocation adjustments
- Approval of minutes for October 1 and October 8, 2025 meetings
- Proclamation for World Polio Day on October 24, 2025
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider several consent agenda items, including a $121,100 purchase of replacement power modules for four radio towers, a lease amendment correcting an address, and acquisition of easements for a drainage project. Regular agenda items include a child care scholarship fund, a procedure for awarding addiction and alcohol funds, and a 2026 service agreement. Public comment is limited to three minutes per speaker.
- Authorize $121,100 purchase of HCI Energy power modules for four radio tower sites
- Approve lease amendment correcting tower address to 1761 N. 1100 Rd., Lawrence
- Approve easement acquisition for CIP Project 2017-58 (drainage structure on N700 Road)
- Approve tax roll adjustments (Commission orders #25-012 and #25-013)
- Authorize Community Child Care Scholarship Challenge Fund and MFAF/alcohol fund procedure
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider accepting the FY 2024 financial statement and authorizing the 2026 Property Tax Rebate Program with staff-recommended changes. The consent agenda includes approvals for culvert replacement bids, pavement maintenance bids, a speed limit resolution, and accounts payable. Public comment will be taken on each regular agenda item.
- Consider acceptance of FY 2024 financial statement
- Authorize 2026 Property Tax Rebate Program with staff changes
- Authorize soliciting bids for culvert replacements (Projects 2017-58 and 2019-53)
- Authorize bids for asphalt mill and overlay (Project 2026-06)
- Resolution No. 25-36: 35-mph speed limit on E1900 Road
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on supportive housing community partnerships and roles, with no action expected. During the business meeting, they will discuss a Tenant Right to Counsel proposal, also with no action, and consider a resolution for an all-way stop at N800/E1550. Several proclamations and routine consent agenda items are also scheduled.
- Work session on supportive housing partnerships and roles, including funding requests from Tenants to Homeowners ($100,000 ongoing), Cardinal Housing Network ($247,000 one-time), DCCCA ($174,940 one-time), Lawrence Douglas County Housing Authority ($25,000 ongoing), and Lawrence Family Promise ($50,000 ongoing)
- Discussion of Tenant Right to Counsel (no action)
- Resolution No. 25-35 designating all-way stop at N800 RD and E1550 RD
- Proclamations for National 4-H Week, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Senior Resource Center Day
- Accounts Payable approval
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on suicide prevention data and the Zero Suicide initiative, then at its business meeting consider approving a financing and joint ownership agreement with the City of Baldwin City to acquire the Black Jack Battlefield property. The commission will also consider routine consent items, including tax roll adjustments and accounts payable, and take public comment.
- Approve Financing Agreement and Joint Ownership Agreement with City of Baldwin City for Black Jack Battlefield Property at 163 E. 2000th Road; County to provide $250,000 from Open Space funds
- Zero Suicide study session: update on county suicide data and prevention efforts
- Consider Commission Order #25-011 for Tax Roll Adjustments
- Consider approval of Accounts Payable
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will vote on a consent agenda including a $199,112.78 software upgrade agreement with Catalis for the Register of Deeds, plus several regular agenda items: a rezoning request, two special event permits, and a proposed site for a new fire station. Public comment is limited to three minutes per speaker.
- Approve $199,112.78 Catalis Land Records Management Software upgrade and 5-year support, paid from Register of Deeds Technology Fund
- Rezone 20.27 acres at 205 N 1700 Rd from AG-1 to AG-2 (Resolution 25-33)
- Special event permit for Garrett's Haunted Farm (Sept 26–Nov 3, 2025) at 1387 E 1650 Rd
- Special event permit for Save Our Soil Kaw Valley Foundation outdoor concert (Oct 11, 2025) at 1359 N 1900 Rd
- Consider approving 555 Stoneridge as site for LDCFM Station 6
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider appointing special counsel Adam Y. Zenter for criminal investigations and prosecutions involving Justin Robert Royer, with costs not to exceed $25,000. They will also receive an informational update on the Land Protection Program, a pilot with the Kansas Land Trust funded by $250,000 in ARPA funds, covering three conservation projects. The agenda includes consent items like accounts payable and general public comment.
- Appointment of special counsel Adam Y. Zenter for Justin Robert Royer case (cost cap $25,000)
- Update on Land Protection Program: 3 conservation projects (400-acre forest, Clinton Lake prairie, urban farm)
- Accounts Payable approval
- General public comment period (3-minute limit per speaker)
- Weekly Manager Memo with upcoming events and open board appointments
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session to hear a presentation from Lawrence Tenants, Kansas Holistic Defenders, and the National Coalition for Civic Right to Counsel about establishing a Tenant Right to Counsel program. No action is recommended; the item is for information only. The business meeting includes consent agenda items such as tax roll adjustments, the 2026 District Court budget, and accounts payable, followed by general public comment and a weekly manager memo.
- Tenant Right to Counsel work session presentation (no action)
- Commission Order #25-010 for tax roll adjustments
- 2026 Annual Budget for 7th Judicial District Court (approval of JA 100-108 forms)
- Accounts Payable approval
- General public comment (3-minute limit per speaker)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold public hearings and take roll-call votes to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate for the 2026 budget, covering the county and cemetery special districts as well as Consolidated Fire District No. 1. They will also consider adopting the 2026 operating and capital improvement budgets and the fire district budget. The consent agenda includes approval of meeting minutes, a reimbursement to HQ Kansas for crisis line services, and accounts payable.
- Reimbursement of $80,255.01 to HQ Kansas for 2023 crisis line services
- Hearing and vote to exceed Revenue Neutral Rate for Douglas County and cemetery districts (Resolution 25-31)
- Adoption of 2026 Douglas County Operating and CIP Budget
- Hearing and vote to exceed Revenue Neutral Rate for Consolidated Fire District No. 1 (Resolution 25-32)
- Adoption of 2026 Consolidated Fire District No. 1 Budget
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session to review information regarding programs and resources available to households facing eviction. The session includes presentations from agency partners such as Kansas Legal Services and the District Court Self Help Center.
- Work session on eviction prevention and diversion initiatives
- Review of renter protection policy health impacts report
- Approval of Accounts Payable (Consent Agenda)
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a special meeting for the purpose of an election canvass. No other business is listed on the agenda.
- Election canvass
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is reviewing a contract amendment and budget proposal for the Phase II main level finish out of the Public Safety Building. The item includes a proposed $5,144,722.00 amount with JE Dunn and a total project budget of $6,643,382.21.
- Contract Amendment #2 for Public Safety Building Phase II with JE Dunn ($5,144,700.00)
- Approval of 2025-2026 Emergency Management Board membership
- Updates to the Douglas County Personnel Policy
- Approval of various meeting minutes from May through July 2025
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on the Consolidated Fire District #1 2026 budget request of $2,506,237 (a 9% increase) and a business meeting with consent agenda items including a $1,159,952.65 bridge construction contract and a resolution to begin rescinding a minimum maintenance road designation. Regular agenda items include a design update for the Public Safety Building Phase II, a $149,520 HUD grant agreement, and a review of the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting is largely procedural, with most items for discussion or consent.
- Consolidated Fire District #1 2026 budget: $2,506,237, 9% increase, includes 0.5 mill levy increase generating ~$158,000
- Award contract to Bryan Ohlmeier Construction Co Inc. for Project 2026-B3 bridge replacement at $1,159,952.65
- Resolution No. 25-30 to commence rescinding minimum maintenance designation on N 1 Road in Palmyra Township
- Approve $149,520 HUD grant agreement for 12 months beginning April 1, 2025
- Review 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (informational)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a special meeting to deliberate the 2026 budget, followed by a business meeting with consent agenda items and public hearings. Key decisions include a $120,803.15 backup solution contract, a rezoning request, and participation in a Neighborhood Revitalization Area for an affordable housing project. The commission will also consider notifying the County Clerk of intent to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate for both the county and Consolidated Fire No. 1.
- 2026 budget deliberations
- Approve $120,803.15 one-year agreement with Choice Solutions for backup solution
- Public hearing to vacate Lot 5, Block One, Twin Ridge Heights West Subdivision
- Rezone 6.42 acres at terminus of N. 1917 Rd from CP to AG-1
- Consider 15-year, 95% Neighborhood Revitalization Area for 9 Del Lofts II at 716 E 9th Street, Lawrence
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is holding a special meeting to deliberate on the 2026 budget. The agenda contains only this single item, so the meeting is focused solely on budget discussions.
- 2026 budget deliberations
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is holding a special meeting to deliberate the 2026 budget, following up on budget hearings. The agenda includes detailed supplemental funding requests from behavioral health and housing providers, totaling over $5.9 million in eligible requests, with some items already included in the proposed budget. The commission will decide which of these requests to fund.
- Permanent Supportive Housing HUD grant replacement: $561,804 (original) / $492,544 (revised)
- Bert Nash/TRC 2026 supplemental: $1,249,424; 2025 one-time supplemental: $604,305
- Cardinal Housing Network: $247,000 for rehab of 1126 Ohio St. transitional housing
- Heartland Community Health Center: $1,500,000 one-time for Bluestem building
- Tenants to Homeowners: $500,000 one-time to build 5 small houses with Peaslee & Dirtworks Studio
Special Meeting
This is a special meeting of the Douglas County, KS governing body, held to continue deliberations on the 2026 budget if needed. The agenda contains only this single item and no other business.
- 2026 budget deliberations (if needed)
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is holding the fourth day of public hearings on the 2026 budget. The agenda schedules presentations from various county departments and services, including vulnerable populations, vital services, infrastructure, land records, and core services. No decisions are listed on the agenda; it is a hearing for discussion and public input.
- Targeted Populations - Vulnerable Populations (STA Care Center) at 9:00 a.m.
- Vital Services (Administration-Housing and Human Services, Just Food) at 9:30 a.m.
- Infrastructure (Public Works, Zoning) at 10:00 a.m.
- Land Records and Taxation (Treasurer) at 10:30 a.m.
- Core Services (Maintenance, Administration, IT) at 11:00 a.m.
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission holds a special 9:00 a.m. budget hearing (Day 3) covering Emergency Services, Economic Development, and Targeted Populations, followed by a 5:30 p.m. business meeting. The business meeting includes a consent agenda with items such as approving a site plan for Twin Oaks Golf Facility, a tower lease with Great Plains Media, and a workforce development agreement. The agenda also includes general public comment and a weekly manager memo.
- 2026 budget hearing: Emergency Services (LDCFM, ECC, EM), Economic Development (Baldwin City Chamber, CORE), Targeted Populations (Child Advocacy Center, Center for Supportive Communities)
- Site plan SP-25-0019 for Twin Oaks Golf Facility, 1326 E. 1900 Rd., with conditions including new access easement and KDHE permits
- Mutual lease and use agreement with Great Plains Media, Inc. for tower sites
- Chief Elected Official Board agreement with Kansas Local Workforce Development Area I
- Accounts Payable approval
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is holding the second day of its 2026 budget hearings. The agenda schedules presentations from law enforcement, justice, and heritage/land departments, with specific times for each group. This is a discussion and review session, not a final budget vote.
- 9:00 a.m. Law Enforcement (Sheriff) budget presentation
- 10:00 a.m. Justice (Court, DA, KHD) budget presentation
- 11:00 a.m. Heritage and land (Extension Council, Historical Societies, HCC) budget presentation
Special Meeting
The Douglas County Commission is holding Day 1 of its 2026 budget hearing. The meeting consists of presentations from supportive housing providers and behavioral health and substance use disorder organizations, with no decisions listed on the agenda.
- Supportive housing presentations from Bert Nash, Cardinal Housing Network, TTH, Family Promise, and LDCHA
- Behavioral health and SUD presentations from Bert Nash, HeadQuarters KS, Heartland RADAC, Heartland Health, LDCPH, Mirror, and DCCCA
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session to review the completed ESCI evaluation of Consolidated Fire District #1, which assesses the district's operations, staffing, and facilities against national standards. During the business meeting, the commission will consider extending the alcohol sales agreement with the Douglas County Fair Board for the 2025 fair, approve accounts payable, and receive a presentation on the Douglas County Anti-Poverty Community Health Improvement Plan. Public comment is limited to three minutes per speaker for general items and one comment per regular agenda item.
- Technical review of Consolidated Fire District #1 evaluation by ESCI (information only)
- Request to extend alcohol sales agreement with Douglas County Fair Board for 2025 fair beer garden
- Approval of Accounts Payable
- Presentation of Douglas County Anti-Poverty Community Health Improvement Plan (no action)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider approving a $91,900 grant application to the Kansas Department of Corrections for behavioral health services at the Juvenile Detention Center for state fiscal year 2026. The consent agenda also includes approval of accounts payable. The meeting is largely procedural, with the grant application as the main substantive item.
- Approve KDOC Juvenile Detention Center Behavioral Health Services grant application for $91,900 for FY2026
- Grant funds mental health and substance use assessments and treatment for detained youth
- Approve Accounts Payable
- Receive Weekly Manager Memo
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will discuss a proposed $497,500 increase to the Fund 201 road maintenance budget, which has been flat at $1,202,500 for five years. The increase would bring the total to $1.7 million, with an additional $500,000 in CIP funds recommended, for a combined $2.2 million in 2026. The commission will also consider several consent agenda items, including a $2,647,821 Motorola service agreement renewal and a $154,000 fund redirect for supportive housing.
- Discuss $497,500 increase for paved road maintenance (Fund 201, Line 61420) to $1.7 million
- Authorize $2,647,821 Motorola P25 service agreement renewal for emergency communications
- Authorize $1,015,000 Motorola Flex maintenance subscription for fire dispatch software
- Redirect $154,000 of Bert Nash ACT funding to Justice Involved Supportive Housing
- Approve Summerfest Independence Day celebration with alcohol sales at Douglas County Fairgrounds
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session to preview the 2026 proposed budget, covering themes, revenue trends, and planned transfers, with no action taken. The business meeting includes a proclamation for Juneteenth, consent agenda items such as liquor licenses and bridge replacement authorization, and informational reviews of the Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical fee structure and behavioral health funding.
- 2026 Budget Preview: themes, assessed valuation growth, sales tax trends, and ~58 supplemental requests totaling ~$10.0M
- Proclamation for Douglas County Juneteenth Celebration on June 14, 2025
- Cereal Malt Beverage License requests for The Clinton Store and Poor Farm Restaurant
- Authorization to solicit construction bids for CIP Project 2026-B3, replacement of Bridge 1400-2342
- Excess Workers’ Compensation Insurance coverage with Midwest Employers Casualty for $162,250
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical (LDCFM) budget options for 2026, followed by a business meeting with consent agenda items and regular agenda items. Decisions include a $60,000/year contract for governmental affairs representation, emergency water line repair at the Historic Courthouse, reappointment of the County Appraiser, tax abatements for fire disasters, and a rezoning request. The LDCFM presentation is informational only; no action will be taken on it.
- Contract award to Little Governmental Relations for governmental affairs representation at $60,000/year, renewable up to five years, total potential value $300,000
- Emergency water line repair at Historic Courthouse with SAMCO Mechanical, not to exceed $235,000
- Reappointment of Brad Eldridge as County Appraiser for four-year term (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2029) via Resolution 25-23
- Tax abatements under K.S.A. 79-1613 for fires on February 17, 2025 and August 19, 2024
- Rezoning Z-25-0002: 27.6 acres at 292 N. 2100 Rd from AG-1 to AG-2
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider authorizing the issuance of general obligation sales tax improvement bonds, Series 2025-A, and will vote on a consent agenda that includes tax roll adjustments, judicial tax foreclosure action, a highway de-icing salt contract, a KDOT funding request, and appointment of special counsel. The meeting also includes public comment and a weekly manager memo.
- Resolution to issue general obligation sales tax improvement bonds, Series 2025-A
- Bid award to Central Salt for 3,500 tons of highway de-icing salt at $171,465.00
- Resolution No. 25-21 directing judicial tax foreclosure on delinquent properties
- Commission order 25-008 for tax roll adjustments
- KDOT funding request for high-friction surface treatment (FFY 2027)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider approving a comprehensive plan amendment (AMDT-25-0002) to Plan 2040's Oread Neighborhood Plan, changing the future land use designation for 909 and 913 Tennessee Street from Neighborhood Commercial Center to High-Density Residential. This amendment supports a proposed affordable housing project and has already been approved by the Planning Commission and Lawrence City Commission. The board will also hear a presentation on the KU Gateway Project and consider a budget increase for the Fairgrounds Parking Lot Repair Project.
- Comprehensive plan amendment AMDT-25-0002 for Oread Neighborhood Plan, 909/913 Tennessee St, to High-Density Residential
- Fairgrounds Parking Lot Repair Project budget increase of $72,290 to $554,222.70
- Proclamation declaring May 2025 as Mental Health Month in Douglas County
- Commission order 25-007 for tax roll adjustments
- Accounts Payable approval
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider postponing the sale of bonds for the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center renovation and creation of the Public Safety Building, with a recommended motion of no action. The consent agenda includes acceptance of a $31,145 federal grant for the Sheriff's Office, approval of a $1,000 easement payment for Project 2024-55, and approval of cereal malt beverage licenses for two businesses. The regular agenda also includes a site plan extension request for Veritas Christian School.
- Postpone sale of bonds for Judicial and Law Enforcement Center renovation and Public Safety Building creation
- Accept $31,145 federal S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women Act grant for Sheriff's Office
- Approve $1,000 payment for tree loss related to Project 2024-55
- Approve cereal malt beverage licenses for Clinton Store and Poor Farm Restaurant
- Consider one-year site plan extension for Veritas Christian School, 960 E. 1296 Rd.
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on the Planning & Zoning & Codes department overview, then a business meeting to consider approving a KDOT agreement for bridge replacement funding and a text amendment revising home occupation standards. The agenda also includes general public comment, an executive session, and routine items.
- Approve agreement with KDOT for Project 2025-B1, replacement of Bridge 1800-1124 on N 1800 Road, with KDOT covering up to $1.4 million (80% of construction cost)
- Consider text amendment AMDT-24-1001 to revise Home Occupation standards and registration process (Section 12-306-21, omit 12-306-22)
- Work session: department overview of Planning & Zoning & Codes (informational only)
- General public comment (3-minute limit per speaker)
- Executive session for attorney-client consultation
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on core services (Maintenance, IT, GIS, Administration) and a business meeting with consent agenda items, including a $203,119.58 tractor purchase, and regular agenda items on Fair Board appointments, heritage grants, HVAC repairs, and healthcare plan renewal. Public comment is allowed on each item.
- Approve contract with Deere & Company for 2025 John Deere 6M 165 Tractor and FC10R Flex Wing Rotary Cutter, total $203,119.58
- Consider Charter Resolution No. 25-4-2 to amend Douglas County Fair Board appointments
- Approve 2025 Natural and Cultural Heritage Grant recommendations from Heritage Conservation Council
- Authorize agreement with P1 Mechanical for HVAC upgrades in Building A at Public Works facility
- Approve healthcare plan changes, employee contribution rates, and Stop Loss renewal with Optum for June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will consider authorizing the sale of General Obligation Sales Tax Improvement Bonds, Series 2025-A to fund the renovation of the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center and construction of the Public Safety Building. The board will also review a comprehensive plan amendment for the West of K-10 area, a site plan for the Hamm-Eudora Quarry, and hear updates on the Alternative 911 Emergency Response and Fire Medical services. Several consent agenda items include tax abatements for a fire and easement acquisitions for road projects.
- Resolution to authorize sale of General Obligation Sales Tax Improvement Bonds, Series 2025-A for Judicial and Law Enforcement Center renovation and Public Safety Building construction
- Comprehensive plan amendment AMDT-24-1004 to Plan 2040, revising West of K-10 Plan for the southeast corner of K-10 Highway and Bob Billings Parkway
- Site plan SP-25-0004 revising phases of Hamm-Eudora Quarry at 1232 E 2300 Rd
- Tax abatement under K.S.A. 79-1613 for a fire on July 22, 2024
- Easement acquisitions for CIP Projects 2024-55, 2019-54, and 2019-53
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hear a staff presentation on whether to switch from its current regulatory/cash-basis accounting to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), with no action expected. The board will also consider a rezoning request, approve bids for highway de-icing salt and dust control chemicals, and receive updates on the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council's strategic plan and the Public Safety Building project.
- Rezoning Z-24-1019: 18 acres east of E 900 Rd & N 1800 Rd from AG-1 to LI (Limited Industrial), with Resolution 25-15
- Approval to solicit bids for 3,500 tons of highway de-icing salt for 2025/2026 winter
- Award contract to Scotwood Industries for dust control chemicals at $1.24 per gallon
- Reject aggregate bids for RFB-2025-0002
- Authorize agreement amendment with Treanor Architects for Public Safety Building Phase II design
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on land records departments (Treasurer, Register of Deeds, Appraiser) and then a business meeting with a consent agenda and regular items. Key decisions include approving contracts for a Public Works maintenance vehicle totaling $135,874, herbicide supply for $79,364.52, and a hot mix asphalt contract, plus authorizing federal grant funds for Veteran's Treatment Court and an ERP readiness consultancy.
- Approve purchase of 2025 Ford F550 and flatbed/spreader/plow installation for $135,874 total
- Award herbicide supply contract to Nutrien Solutions for $79,364.52
- Authorize contract with Bettis Asphalt & Construction for hot mix asphalt supply
- Authorize federal grant funds up to $200,000 through 2029 for DCF interagency agreement
- Approve GFOA consulting proposal for ERP readiness up to $145,000
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on the District Court Legal Self-Help Center update, then a business meeting with proclamations, consent agenda items, and regular agenda items. Key actions include approving a site plan for a cemetery at 1668 N 1400 Rd and authorizing a contract renewal for pavement markings. A resolution on traffic volume limits for E 902 Road was removed, and the Flexible Housing Pool Program update was deferred.
- Site plan SP-24-1044 for a cemetery at 1668 N 1400 Rd
- Contract renewal with Straight-Line Striping Inc. for 2025 pavement markings, $311,155.82
- Commission order #25-004 for tax roll adjustments
- Emergency Vehicle Permit Approval 2025
- Proclamation for Transit Driver and Worker Appreciation Week (March 16-22, 2025)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session to receive an informational overview of the District Attorney's and Sheriff's Office operations, followed by a business meeting. The Commission will consider approving three Kansas Department of Corrections grant applications for criminal justice services, including a reinvestment grant and two comprehensive plan grants. The agenda also includes general public comment and routine items such as accounts payable and a weekly manager memo.
- Review of SFY 2026-2027 KDOC Reinvestment Grant Application ($196,696 total for two years)
- Review of SFY 2026 KDOC 7th Judicial District Juvenile Comprehensive Plan Grant Application
- Review of SFY 2026 KDOC 7th Judicial District Adult Community Corrections Comprehensive Plan Grant Application
- Consider approval of Accounts Payable
- Department overviews: District Attorney and Sheriff's Office (informational only)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will review Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center's 2024 finances and 2025 budget challenges, including a $997,000 deficit and projected $1.5 million shortfall. They will also consider a resolution authorizing bond financing for renovations and an addition to the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center and a new Public Safety Building. The agenda includes consent items, general public comment, and informational updates on the E-Community program and state legislative session.
- Resolution 25-13 authorizing bond financing for JLE Center renovations and new Public Safety Building
- Reallocation of $46,000 from Bert Nash ACT program to fund Lawrence Homelessness Response Team staffing
- Approval of Lawrence-Douglas County MPO Redesignation Agreement
- Bert Nash 2024 financial review: $1.9M revenue shortfall, $997K deficit, 3,384 fewer Medicaid MCO visits
- Accounts Payable approval
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on Heritage Conservation and Sustainability, then a business meeting with consent agenda items and regular agenda items. Key actions include approving a $154,406 software acquisition for emergency fire dispatch protocols, accepting a $350,000 state grant letter, and approving year-end fund transfers. The meeting also includes informational updates on the Shadow Ridge North housing incentive district and FIFA World Cup 2026 planning.
- Approve $154,406 agreement with Priority Dispatch Corporation for Emergency Fire Dispatch protocols, plus $19,000 annual maintenance through 2029
- Accept $350,000 letter of intent from Kansas Department of Health and Environment for Outreach, Prevention and Early Intervention Services
- Authorize soliciting construction bids for replacement of Bridge 1800-1124 (Project 2025-B1)
- Approve 2025 Tow Service Provider Agreement
- Adopt resolutions to close Ambulance Fund, Special Building Fund, and Special Liability Fund, and transfer funds to reserves
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on Criminal Justice Services, followed by a business meeting. The board will consider authorizing a $400,000 blanket purchase order for 2025 legal services, adopting a charter resolution to exempt Lawrence Douglas County Public Health from school sanitary inspections, and approving a $50,000 hazardous materials preparedness grant application. The agenda also includes consent items, general public comment, and a weekly manager memo.
- Authorize $400,000 blanket purchase order for 2025 legal services with John T. Bullock of Seyferth Blumenthal & Harris, LLC
- Adopt charter resolution to exempt Lawrence Douglas County Public Health from K.S.A. 65-202(c) school sanitary inspections
- Authorize submission of $50,000 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) subgrant application to KDEM
- Approve Accounts Payable
- Work session: Criminal Justice Services department overview (informational only)
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on the Emergency Communications Center and Emergency Management, then a business meeting. Key actions include electing officers, approving consent agenda items like insurance renewal and bid solicitations, and voting on a zoning text amendment to revise home occupation standards and registration. Public comment is limited to three minutes per speaker.
- Authorize insurance renewal with Travelers up to $937,229
- Solicit bids for herbicides ($140,000), rock aggregates ($240,000), hot mix asphalt ($765,000)
- Continue dust control user fee program with fees up to $1.65/linear foot
- Approve text amendment AMDT-24-1001 for home occupation standards
- Election of Chair and Vice-Chair for 2025
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical governance and a business meeting with proclamations, consent agenda items, and regular agenda items. Key actions include awarding a bridge replacement contract, approving engineering services, and considering a zoning text amendment on groundwater monitoring.
- Award construction contract to Dondlinger & Sons Construction Co. Inc. for Project 2022-31, Replacement of Bridge 0900-1088, with change orders up to 10%
- Approve engineering services contract with George Butler Associates, Inc. for Project 2026-B5, Replacement of Bridge 1600-0211, not-to-exceed $148,348.00
- Adopt Resolution No. 25-08 to waive GAAP requirements for FY 2025
- Accept 2023 Single Audit Report; total federal award expenditures $4,352,333
- Approve proposed timeline for Senior Resource Center transition to county department by October 1, 2025
Commission Board Meeting
The Douglas County Commission will hold a work session on open meetings/records laws, then a business meeting with a consent agenda and several regular items. Key decisions include two conditional use permits for a clean-rubble landfill and a borrow-pit mining operation to support the K-10 Highway expansion, plus adoption of updated emergency management codes and a joint cities-county resolution. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, tax roll adjustments, and liquor licenses.
- Conditional use permit UP-24-1010 for a clean-rubble landfill west of K-10 Highway and north of N. 1415 Road (Resolution 25-06)
- Conditional use permit UP-24-1011 for mining/excavation/borrow-pit for K-10 Highway materials (Resolution 25-07)
- Adopt Resolution 25-04 revising Chapter 5 of Douglas County Code on Emergency Management and EMS
- Approve updated Emergency Management Joint Cities-County Resolution 25-05 and board bylaws
- Cereal malt beverage licenses for Clinton Marina and The Bird of Lawrence