Chairperson Bowers opened the hearing on SB527 and recognized Senator Klemp, who introduced the bill, to address the Committee.  Jason Long, staff revisor, presented a briefing on the bill and responded to questions from the Committee.  (Attachment 1)

Keith Bradshaw presenting for Secretary Jeff Zmuda testified in support of SB527.  Mr. Bradshaw stated the bill would transfer 57 acres of land that the Department of Corrections owns in Leavenworth County over to Leavenworth County so it can be utilized for future development.  Mr. Bradshaw explained the land is currently used by Kansas Correctional Industries as a grazing area for cattle, and there is sufficient land near the facility where the herd can be relocated within existing resources.  Mr. Bradshaw responded to questions from the Committee.   (Attachment 2)

Mark Loughry testified in support of SB527.  Mr. Loughry indicated there are approximately 2,700 acres of land where the prison is located.  He indicated about half of that is in the floodplain, approximately 200 to 300 acres are the actual prison site, and the rest is either grazed or vacant ground.  Mr. Loughry stated the county would work with the city to develop it into an industrial site.  Mr. Loughry responded to questions from the Committee.   (Attachment 3)

Timothy Vandall testified in support of SB527.  Mr. Vandall stated this bill would take underutilized property currently used for cattle grazing and eventually convert it to a tax generating industrial park.  Mr. Vandall indicated it would be beneficial for the City of Lansing, Leavenworth County, and the State of Kansas.  Mr. Vandall responded to questions from the Committee.   (Attachment 4)

Chairperson Bowers closed the hearing on SB527.