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Minutes for HB2188 - Committee on Ethics, Elections and Local Government
Short Title
Dissolving the White Clay watershed district no. 26, city of Atchison assumes obligations and amending the tax lid relating to the dissolution of any taxing subdivision.
Minutes Content for Thu, Mar 21, 2019
Chairperson Bowers opened the hearing on HB2188. Mike Heim, staff revisor, presented a briefing on the bill.
Representative John Eplee testified in support of HB2188 indicating this is a bill that promotes what good policy should be, which is less government. Representative Eplee stated this is a simple governance bill that absorbs one unit of government into another unit. Representative Eplee indicated this is no veiled attempt to annex more land or try to move the city limits of the city, it's simply a governance issue so that the city can take care of these dams and reservoirs going forward. (Attachment 1)
After questions were addressed by Representative Eplee and Mr. Heim, the hearing continued.
Joe Warren testified in support of HB2188 stating this is basically a government efficiency bill. Mr. Warren indicated the City of Atchison currently maintains the dams, owns the dams, and insures the dams. Mr. Warren explained the one specific duty of the Watershed district is approving the budget. Mr. Warren stated they're trying to make this a more efficient process for everybody including taxpayers. Mr. Warren addressed questions from the Committee. (Attachment 2)
Trey Cocking testified in support of HB2188 providing background on the tax lid language that is included in the bill. Mr. Cocking explained a compromise that had been made on that language. Mr. Cocking indicated they want to see less government, and they believe this bill accomplishes that. Mr. Cocking addressed questions from the Committee. (Attachment 3)
Herbert Graves provided neutral testimony for HB2188 stating SAKW completely supports the actions of this bill. Mr. Graves explained the importance of maintaining the watershed dams. Mr. Graves stated the City of Atchison has maintained the dams since they were constructed. Mr. Graves discussed the Watershed District Act indicating the handbook is currently being rewritten. Mr. Graves addressed questions from the Committee. (Attachment 4)
Chairperson Bowers closed the hearing on HB2188.
