County Reports Election Turnout, Open Planning Board Seat and Completed Bridge

Dickinson County officials shared several updates during the October 29 commission meeting. County Clerk Jennifer Gaytan reported that 1,520 people had voted in person during early voting and 326 mail ballots had been sent so far, roughly two weeks into advance voting. Gaytan said early voting hours were extended at the county courthouse for the coming Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Gaytan reminded residents that the courthouse is a polling location and that electioneering — including clothing and candidate flyers — is prohibited within 250 feet of the building. She noted the deadline to request a mail ballot had passed but said curbside voting is available for those unable to enter the building.

County officials also announced that the 1100 Avenue bridge is now open, with a final walkthrough with the Kansas Department of Transportation expected to be scheduled. Staff said the EMS director and a staff member completed a mid-build ambulance walkthrough, with the county anticipating taking ownership of the new ambulance after the first of the year.

Officials said the Safe Streets for All survey remains available on the county website for resident input on roads and intersections, and that the county health department completed its school flu clinics on October 28. The commission also announced an open position on the planning and zoning board, with an application available on the county's zoning webpage.

The commission named Commissioner Kenny Roelofsen as the county's voting delegate to the Kansas Association of Counties annual meeting in December, with another commissioner serving as alternate.