Commissioners discussed several policy items during the meeting, including a draft consolidated animal‑cruelty ordinance, a potential countywide BNB fee, and language in a Kansas County Commissioners Association letter concerning Medicaid reimbursements.

Animal‑cruelty ordinance: A commissioner asked for the status of a consolidated animal‑cruelty ordinance and whether the draft would include the most stringent misdemeanor penalties allowed by county ordinance. Staff said a rough draft has been prepared and can be brought forward in January (or sooner if the commission prefers) and noted that county authority generally limits charges to misdemeanor penalties unless the case is filed in district court.

BNB fee: Commissioners asked about a countywide template for a BNB fee (discussed as a countywide option for areas without an existing fee). Staff said they have a rough template and can present it in two weeks or in January. No formal decision or vote was taken; commissioners generally favored discussing it in January.

KCCA/KAC letter and Medicaid reimbursements: A commissioner read a letter from the Kansas County Commissioners Association referencing support for measures to increase Medicaid reimbursements and reduce waiver waiting lists to decrease uncompensated care costs. Another commissioner asked for more information before endorsing any position that might increase reimbursement levels, citing concerns about fiscal impact and whether noncitizen Medicaid enrollment can affect local costs. Commissioners agreed to take more time to review and discuss the KCCA language before casting any formal vote next week or in January.