By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The Barton County Commission has had a full plate in recent weeks, with discussions about the HVAC project at the courthouse to the appointment of Matt Patzner as county administrator. Part of that went into the decision to renew Patrick Hoffman's contract as county counselor, even though his bid was slightly higher than that of Don Anderson.
"We had two good applicants, but I think with everything we have going on, I think it would be prudent to stay with Mr. Hoffman at this time," said Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson.
The county accepted proposals for the position through Jan. 25, but no bids were received. The commission then interviewed Hoffman and Anderson. Anderson submitted a monthly bid of $5,250, while Hoffman asked for a renewal of his current rate of $5,500 a month. Commissioner Barb Esfeld said Anderson might be the more local attorney, but Hoffman's schedule and knowledge of county affairs made him a better fit.
"With the workload of this position, in my opinion, Patrick Hoffman has already proven his ability," she said. "And he's already worked with all the departments, and he has a lot of experience in representing anybody from the county appraiser's office to anything, so we haven't had to hire anybody extra."
Hoffman will be paid $66,000 annually for the contract, which will run from Feb. 1 through Jan. 25, 2025.