Chairperson Bowers opened the hearing on HB2571.  Jason Long, staff revisor, presented a briefing on the bill and responded to questions from the Committee.  (Attachment 5)

Jim Benage testified in support of HB2571.  Mr. Benage stated this bill is about fairness.  He explained there are agreements around the state, but there are also other areas that don't have the agreements.  Mr. Benage indicated the bill is kind of generic and doesn't specify exactly what those agreements should say because every community and every situation is going to have its own particular set of circumstances.  Mr. Benage responded to questions from the Committee.  (Attachment 6)

Chairperson Bowers recognized Spencer Duncan and requested he speak regarding his written-only proponent testimony in support of HB2571.  Mr. Duncan indicated that existing agreements already exist between entities.  Mr. Duncan spoke to Overland Park's opponent testimony requesting an exception to the requirement for Cities of the First Class or for Cities in Johnson County.  Mr. Duncan explained it's getting those second- and third-class cities who have issues working with the counties or working with the bigger cities which is different in the west part of the state that causes a very unique situation.  Mr. Duncan responded to questions from the Committee.  (Attachment 7)

Written testimony in opposition of HB2571 was submitted by:

• Michael Koss, City of Overland Park (Attachment 8)

Chairperson Bowers closed the hearing on HB2571.