In other business...

In other business, the Ford County Commission:
    • Directed the county's department heads to give each employee a 2 percent cost-of-living increase in 2009.
    • Appointed Commission Chairman Kim Goodnight and county administrator Ed Elam to a task force, which will representing the county in negotiations with Butler National Service Corp. over Butler's proposal to develop and manage a state-owned casino.
    • Approved a proposal from the Ellsworth-based firm Kirkham Michael to conduct a routine biennial inspection of 159 bridges, including several within the Dodge City limits, for $16,218. The county will seek reimbursement from the city for inspecting the bridges within the city limits.
    • Met with Scott Michie of Bucher, Willis and Ratliff Corp. to discuss questions concerning planning and development for the county's future.
    The company is working on a proposal to develop a new strategic plan for the county, said Ford County Clerk Vicki Wells.
    • Authorized Fire/EMS Chief Russ Smith to upgrade the county's tornado siren system equipment for no more than $15,000.
    • Presented road and bridge supervisor Marty Bolmer with a certificate recognizing him for successfully completing a course in effective supervisory skills from the Kansas Association of Counties' Kansas County Government Institute.