Minute details of the Park County Commission

So, what exactly happened at the last meeting of the Park County Commission? It's occasionally a matter of discussion.

Here's how official meeting minutes make their way into the public record:

During every commission meeting, the Park County Clerk tracks the proceedings, and types up a synopsis. Then, a draft goes to the commission for review and approval. Changes, if any, are typically insignificant - reflecting the minor copy editing that comes from extra sets of eyes.

At times, however, commissioners feel that the meeting summary needs to be clarified or re-worded to capture a particular nuance.

Here's a section from the May 12 meeting minutes that was edited more heavily than usual. Additions to the draft copy are in red, and deletions are stricken through.

Park County Leasing of Commercial Space
Ken Stockwell met with the Board of County Commissioners regarding Park County’s leasing of commercial office space, primarily expressing concern that Park County’s lease of non-library space at the Park County Complex is driving the commercial lease market in Cody because of the square footage being leased by Park County. Stockwell stated he believes the County’s lease efforts are keeping market lease rates lower than they would otherwise be and the Complex campus should result in higher lease rates than other properties that aren't as the property offered at the Complex. Stockwell expressed concern that he is competing with his own tax dollars and asked the Board what their intentions are for long-term use of the building. He also asked for clarification on how the County taxes itself on the rental property and if all space is taxed similar to private property owners. Stockwell stated he is seeking information on profit and loss for the property, taxing allocations and long-term intentions for commercial leasing and suggested the County consider offering individual spaces within the building for sale under a condominium type concept. Commissioners stated they consider the building a long-term investment for the County, which will one day likely be could be occupied entirely by education and government-type entities, including Park County offices. The building was purchased in anticipation of long-term community growth. Further, Commissioners reminded Mr. Stockwell that although the campus is beautiful, the building itself is old and in dire need of being refreshed (flooring, drapery, etc.). Park County has been moving leases closer to market-competitive rates and is now charging makret-competitive rates for new leases in the building in response to concerns expressed by the public. Park County Commissioners each year review leases and recently increased lease rates to current market rates. No action was taken.

Finalized minutes are made available on the county Web site and published in the Tribune's legal section.

Editor's note: length can be a factor in minute-writing, too. Not only is brevity the soul of wit, it's also cheaper - since minutes must be published in the newspaper, the fewer the words, the less the expense to the county and taxpayers.