Max Hayen joined the voting, making it 3-0, after being sworn in as finance commissioner to succeed Larry McLain in an unfinished term.

The commissioners approved an interlocal agreement between the City of Marion and Marion County to join in a county-wide neighborhood revitalization plan that would provide tax abatement through refunds on approved new construction.

City Attorney Dan Baldwin said he could see no problem with the agreement, and added that it wouldn't interfere with the city's existing revitalization plan along the Main Street corridor.

Commissioner Jim Crofoot noted in the agreement that the county gets a 5 percent administrative fee from any tax money paid under the plan.

The commissioners appointed Elora Robinson to a three-year term on the museum board.

They also approved a mutual aid fire agreement with the City of Herington.

Marty Fredrickson, building inspector, reported that no improvements were made over 45 days allowed at 201 N. Freeborn under a resolution of the commission that could result in condemnation demolition of the substandard property.

Baldwin said the owner of the property had signed the agreement under the resolution to make improvements within the time required. He said the owner should be notified about a hearing set in two weeks, and the commission should be prepared to move forward "with whatever's needed" should the owner be unable to provide a convincing argument for a time extension.

City Administrator David Mayfield said city workers are in the process of adding ammonia treatment at the water plant after receiving a Kansas Department of Health and Environment permit for the upgrade.

The commissioners approved the May utility billing tie out.