MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — The Reno County Board of Commissioners will meet Wednesday, November 12, with a full agenda that includes a proposed development agreement with Wifco Steel Products, Inc., participation in a state grant program for small public water systems, and discussion of commissioner compensation.
On the consent agenda, including an agreement aimed at supporting local manufacturing jobs and a proposal to help small water systems access state funding.
The county’s proposed development agreement with ADE-Wifco Steel Products, Inc. outlines a job-creation incentive designed to encourage the Hutchinson-based company to expand operations in Reno County. In exchange for tax or infrastructure incentives, Wifco commits to meeting specific job-creation and investment benchmarks within a defined timeframe.
The agreement includes accountability provisions — allowing the county to audit job numbers and investment levels — and claw-back clauses to recover benefits if performance goals are not met. County officials say the deal supports economic growth while protecting public funds through measurable outcomes.
Also on the consent agenda, commissioners will consider participation in the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Small Systems Grant Program, which provides 50% matching funds for engineering or planning work in small water systems serving fewer than 1,000 residents. If approved, Reno County would be positioned to help rural or unincorporated systems apply for upgrades or compliance assistance, reducing local costs and improving drinking-water reliability.
Also on the consent agenda is the approval of the minutes from the commission meetings on Aug. 13, and Aug. 27, plus the approval of vouchers.
The board’s primary action item focuses on reviewing commissioner pay levels. The discussion will evaluate current compensation against peer counties and consider options such as updated pay rates, periodic review schedules, or aligning commissioner pay with that of other elected officials.
County staff notes that the review aims to ensure compensation reflects the growing responsibilities of commissioners — including oversight of major infrastructure projects, public safety services, and constituent engagement.
As a public matter, any pay adjustment would be subject to discussion and likely take effect with future budget cycles.
The Reno County Commission is meeting this week at 10 a.m. following the canvass of last week's general election. The commission meeting is in the Veterans' Room of the Reno County Courthouse.