The Reno County Commission approved a resolution placing a question on the April 2, ballot asking voters to approve a one half cent sales tax for construction of a new county jail with 250-beds and subsequent renovation of the old jail. But if approved, it would also enhance courthouse security and relocate the offices of the County Clerk, Treasure, Register of Deeds and Appraiser to what is currently the jail annex.

The total cost to do all of this is estimated at 28.9-million dollars. It would be paid over a 10-year period, however could be sooner depending on how much tax is brought in.

Although some are not keen on any tax going up, County Commissioner James Schlickau told those at the meeting that interest rates are very low, plus those from out of town who spend money in the county would help pay off the jail. It’s estimated that about 10% of the tax collected would come from those outside the county.

There was also some concern that some people may not know there even is a vote on the jail proposal and what it entails. But, County Commissioner Dan Deming told the gathering that they are planning on speaking before a number of community groups and there is a town hall meeting planned for next month at the Shears Technology Center on the Hutchinson Community College campus.

The commission also heard discussion on whether the speed on Sego Rd., should be increased. The traffic study prepared by B-G Consultants shows that there is nothing to keep the county from increasing the speed again. When it was a state highway, the speed was 65-mph, but they turned a portion of the highway over to the county, where they were required to reduce the speed to 55. However, the county can decide if they want raise it to a maximum of 65.

The count showed that there are 500 cars per day that uses the road and that accidents on the stretch of road between Arlington and the junction with K-96 are very low.

Residents and business owners along that stretch of road in western Reno County wanted it raised back up leading to the study being conducted. But, Public Works Director Dave McComb who now seemed opposed, now seems in favor of it being raised. The only commissioner who said he is also in favor was Commission Chairman Dan Deming, but he also indicated that he won’t be at next weeks meeting, so it will be up to Commissioners Brad Dillon and James Schlickau to decide if the speed should be increased.

The County Commission also approved spending 135-thousand, 472-dollars for Public Works to buy a new 2014 Freightliner truck with an H.D, Industries Pothole Patcher. McComb told the commission that the old one has outlasted it usefulness. The county only received one bid according to McComb, that being, Kansas Truck Center of Wichita.