HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission approved new social media guidelines for county employees, authorized utility easements for Evergy and heard concerns about potential funding losses for juvenile programs during its Wednesday morning meeting.
Commissioners voted 4-1 to adopt a social media policy establishing expectations for employees posting work-related content on personal accounts.
Human Resources Director Helen Foster said the policy was developed following several incidents involving employees sharing workplace videos and other content online.
Foster said the county is not attempting to restrict employees' personal expression but wants to prevent inappropriate use of county equipment, information and clothing identifying employees as county workers.
Commissioner Ron Vincent questioned how the county would determine what content violates the policy, particularly when dealing with subjective issues such as music or language.
"It's very opinionated," Vincent said. "Who determines that?"
Vincent voted against the policy and a related update to the county's electronic media guidelines.
Commissioners also heard from Community Corrections Director Randy Regehr, who warned that more than 100 juvenile rehabilitation programs across Kansas could lose funding next summer.
Regehr said millions of dollars intended for community-based juvenile programs have been redirected to other state expenses in recent years.
Under current funding projections, Reno County could lose financial support for juvenile mentoring and substance abuse programs beginning July 1, 2027.
"Starting in July 1, we will no longer have funding across the state for all the programs that are serving youth," Regehr said.
He said Community Corrections agencies are asking state lawmakers to restore funding to prevent those cuts.
Regehr also reported that 70% of adult Community Corrections cases ending during fiscal year 2026 were completed successfully. The county's drug court program served 39 participants, including eight who graduated.
In other business, commissioners voted 4-1 to approve easements allowing Evergy to install transmission lines associated with a new power plant.
Commissioner Don Bogner questioned the long-term implications of the agreement before voting against it.
"Once we sign this, it's forever," Bogner said.
The commission also approved an amendment to a $500,000 federal housing rehabilitation agreement with the South Central Kansas Economic Development District. The organization rehabilitated and sold three Hutchinson homes rather than the five originally planned because of rising costs and housing market conditions. Bogner cast the lone dissenting vote.
Commissioners also recognized Harley Macklin for more than seven years of service on the Reno County Planning Commission and issued a proclamation supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to display green lights Nov. 4-11 in recognition of veterans. The Reno County Courthouse will also be illuminated in green during the observance.