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Appraiser's Department - Guide to Property Tax

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1. Why is property taxed in Kansas?

Your tax dollars are used by city, county and other taxing districts to provide funding for:

• Fire protection
• Health
• Parks
• Police protection
• Roads
• Many other local services

In addition, property taxes also help fund local school districts.

2. What does my County Appraiser do?

By law, the County Appraiser is responsible for listing and valuing property in a uniform and equal manner. The Appraiser estimates only the value of your property. The amount of taxes you pay depends on the budgets set by your city, county, school and other taxing districts. K.S.A 79-503a, K.S.A 79-1412a, K.S.A 79-1476

3. How does the county’s appraisal affect my taxes?

If your property value goes up, it does not necessarily mean you will pay more taxes. Likewise, if your property goes down or does not change, it does not automatically mean you will pay less or the same amount of taxes. Your property taxes are based on how much the various taxing districts decide to spend on services each year.

4. Will the value of my property change every year?

The value of your property may change each year – it depends on several things. If you make improvements to your home, such as adding a garage, the value may go up. The value may also change (up or down) because of recent sales in your neighborhood. The County Appraiser continually updates sales prices and other information on homes all over the county.

5. At what value is my home appraised for property tax purposes?

The County Appraiser appraises your home at “market value” as it exists the first day of January each year. Market value is the amount of money a well-informed buyer would pay and a well-informed seller would accept for property in an open and competitive market without any influence. (K.S.A 79-503a)

6. How does the County Appraiser determine market value?

Qualities of Your Home

When valuing your home, the appraiser takes into account these qualities of your home:

• Age
• Condition
• Location 
• Quality
• Size
• Style

Methods Used to Value Property

The appraiser then uses one or more of the following three methods to value your property:

• The Market Approach: sales of similar property are compared to each other. The appraiser then adjusts for differences (for example, one house may have more square footage than another). This method works well for valuing homes.
• The Cost Approach: age and what it would cost to replace your home are taken into consideration. This approach works well for new and unique properties.
• The Income Approach: in simple terms, income from rent is used to value property. This method works well for income producing properties (for example, apartment buildings and malls).

7. Does the County Appraiser visit my property?

State law requires the county appraiser to visually inspect 17% of all property in the county every year and to re-examine every property on a six-year cycle.

8. If I bought my house last year, shouldn’t the value be the same as what I paid for it a year ago?

Not necessarily - one sale by itself does not determine market value. The price you paid for your home is first verified by the County Appraiser and then pooled with sales of similar homes. The appraiser uses this information to value your home. Also, market conditions may have changed in the last year.

9. When will I be notified of the value of my property?

You should receive the “notice of value” on your home (land and buildings) from the County Appraiser by March 1. If your County Appraiser asks the state for an extension, it may be later than March 1 before you get your notice of value.

10. What can I do if I believe the value of my home is too high?

Challenge Home Value

There are two ways to challenge the value of your home:

• You may appeal the “Notice of Value” of your home by contacting the County Appraiser’s Office by phone or in writing within 30 days after receiving your “Notice of Value”.
• You may fill out a “payment under protest” form with the County Treasurer at the time you pay your taxes. If an escrow or tax service agent pays your property taxes, then protest no later than January 31st.

You cannot appeal using both methods for the same property in the same tax year. So, if you start to appeal your “Notice of Value,” be sure that you follow through with the appeal. You will not be allowed to “pay under protest” later. K.S.A 79-2005.

Unsatisfied with Your Results

If you are not satisfied with the results of your appeal at the county level, the next step in the appeals process is to take your case to the Kansas Court of Tax Appeals. For more information on appeals, please contact your local County Appraiser’s Office.

11. What is the mill levy?

The mill levy is the "tax rate" that is applied to the assessed value of your property. It consists of a local portion which is used to fund area services and statewide portion which is used to fund state institutions. The Legislature and Governor reduced the local school general fund levy from 35 mills to 27 mills beginning in 1997. In addition, the first 20,000 in the appraised value of your home is exempt from the school general fund mill levy.

12. How do I calculate the property taxes on my home?

1. Look at your “Notice of Value”, find the “appraised value” of your home. Multiply the appraised value by the “assessment percentage” which is 11.5%.
2. Multiply the assessed value by your “mill levy” and then divide by 1,000 to estimate the property tax you owe. Contact your County Clerk to find out what your mill levy is.
3. Effective beginning with the tax year 1998, the first $20,000 in the appraised value of your home is exempt from the 20 mill statewide portions of the mill levy. For example, if the appraised value of your home is $20,000 or more, the amount your tax bill will be reduced is calculated by multiplying the appraised value by the assessment percentage (11.5%). Then you will take the assessed value you just calculated and multiply that by the statewide portion of the mill levy divided by 1,000. Then you will find the amount to subtract from your tax bill.

Note: If your home is appraised for less than $20,000 simply use your appraised value instead of the $20,000 appraised values and follow the same procedures as shown in the example. Please refer to the mill levy question and call your local County Clerk or Appraiser’s Office if you have any questions regarding this exemption.

13. When are property tax bills sent an when should they be paid?

The County Treasurer mails tax bills on or before December 15th. All or at least half of the tax due by December 20th and the second half is due by May 10th of the following year. If you have a mortgage loan on your property, you will receive a statement with tax information on it. Your tax bill will be sent to the mortgage company or bank, and the tax will be paid out of your escrow account.

14. Do I qualify for a homestead property tax refund?

Refund Qualifications

The Kansas Homestead Refund Act provides a refund to Kansans who own their homes or pay rent and meet one of the following three requirements:

• You must have been 55 years of age or older on January 1.
• You must have been totally and permanently disabled or blind during the entire year, regardless of age.
• You must have had one or more dependent children residing with you the entire year, regardless of your age. At least one dependent child must have been born on or before January 1 of the tax year in question and must have been 18 years of age the entire year.

Requirements

In addition, you must meet all the following requirements:

• You must have lived in Kansas for the entire year.
• Your total household income must have not been more than $31,300.
• You must have owned or rented the home you lived in or you must have lived in a nursing home where property taxes were paid during the tax year.
• You must not owe any delinquent taxes on your home, or if you are filing under the renter’s provision, the rental property must be on the tax rolls.
• Your property tax or rent must not have been paid from public funds on your behalf directly to the county treasurer or landlord for the tax year.

Who to Contact

If you meet the qualifications, you must file with the Kansas Department of Revenue Homestead Section between January 1 and April 15 in order to receive a refund. If you would like additional information, call the Kansas Department of Revenue at 785-296-0222 or contact the Geary County Clerks Office for more information

15. Can I have someone else protest my value for me?

Yes. You can choose to have someone else represent you during an appeal however we need to have a Declaration of Representative (PDF) filled out for the tax year you are protesting.

16. Where can I find the current Tax Levies for my area?

The current Tax Levies are published every year by the County Clerks office usually towards the end of the calendar year and can be viewed on-line as a downloadable PDF.

17. Why is the County Appraiser's Office asking me for my income and expense information and am I required to give it to them?

The County Appraiser's Office asks for Income and Expense information from businesses within the county to help analyze what is happening locally in the market for income producing properties. It give us an indication of the expenses and vacancy rate which we use in our income approach to valuation model. Per state guidance the Appraiser's Office is required to send out income and expense questionnaire. The taxpayer is not required to return them but it will help in providing us with vital data to use in our Income Approach. All returned Income and Expense information is Confidential and will handled with complete privacy and are not subject to an open records request (K.S.A 45-221 (55)(b))

18. How do I find my Assessment rate for my property?

Article 11 in the Constitution of the State of Kansas lays out the assessment rate for each type of property within the State of Kansas. The table below are the most common property classes and their assessment rates in Geary County. You may also find this table on the back of your Valuation Notice that is sent to your mailing address every year.

CLASS	DESCRIPTION	ASSESSMENT %
R	Real Property used for residential purposes including apartments and condominiums	11.5%
F	Residences on farm home sites	11.5%
A	Land devoted to agricultural use	30%
A	Improvements on land devoted to agricultural use	25%
V	Vacant lots	12%
N	Real property owned and operated by not-for-profit	12%
C	Real property used for commercial and industrial purposes	25%
O	All other rural and urban real property	30%
E	Tax exempt property	0%

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County Clerk - Election Information

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1. Who can vote an advance ballot?

Any registered voter in Geary County can vote in advance. You simply complete and submit an Application for an Advance Voting Ballot (PDF) to the Clerk's Office. Call the County Clerk's Office at 785-238-3912.

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County Counselor

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1. Who does the Counselor represent?

The County as an organization, its Board of County Commissioners and its appointed and elected officials.

2. What are the Counselor’s responsibilities?

To provide legal advice, and act as the County’s civil counsel, not to prosecute criminal matters.

3. Does the Counselor give tax advice to the public?

No, the obligation is to work with the County Appraiser, Clerk and Treasurer to advise them regarding appropriate assessment, legal collection, and representation before administrative bodies and courts.

4. What rules are important in the tax foreclosure process?

• Properties are included in the foreclosure process when deemed statutorily “delinquent” depending the property’s classification, i.e. abandoned, commercial, residential, or “homestead”;
• The amount listed for a property in a sale publication is the amount of delinquent real estate taxes owed, plus interest and penalties; it is not the assessed value.
• Ownership of the property remains with the current owner(s) thru the sale and remains titled until “sold” or “redeemed”;
• Current owner(s) may redeem the property at any time prior to the day of sale.
• Any interested “buyer” has the responsibility to acquire information about the properties in the sale and any unrecorded special assessments such as mowing, etc.; purchase does not assure “title insurance”, and all properties are sold as is. The County will not give legal advice.

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County Treasurer

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1. How can I pay my property taxes?

All real estate or personal property tax payment options:

• Mailed into 200 E 8th Street Junction City, KS 66441.
• Placed in the drop box at the South Entrance of County Office Building located at 200 E 8th Street Junction City, KS 66441.
• Contact our office at 785-238-6021 for current payoff information.
• Online payments can be made at https://www.kansas.gov/propertytax/.

2. How can I renew my vehicle registration?

There are three options for renewal:

1. Online at ikan.ks.gov.
2. Mail to: 200 E 8th Street Junction City, KS 66441 (Check/Money Order Only)
3. Place in the drop box at the South Entrance of County Office Building, located at 200 E 8th Street Junction City, KS 66441.

IMPORTANT: Until further notice all renewals will be processed 1 of the 3 ways listed. We will not be accepting payment in office. Renewals will be processed in our office the day you registration renewal is received. Please do not wait until the last day of the month.

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COVID-19

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1. 1) How do I know if my business is deemed Essential?

Refer to the list of those businesses that fall under the Kansas Essential Function Framework that is outlined in Governor Kelly’s Executive Order listed on page 4 of the order. If your business operations fall in that list it is considered Essential.

2. 2) What does “Minimum Essential Operations” mean?

An example would be a nail salon that is shut down due to this order; but an individual still needs to do inventory, cleaning, accounts payable, or respond to a panic/fire alarm. Those operations need to continue. But client appointments will not.

3. 3) Does this order allow hair salons, barbers, bingo halls, and nail salons to continue operations?

No

4. 4) Does this order require child care facilities to close?

No. The order indicates that, to the extent possible, child care facilities should place children in groupings of not more than 10 children such that children would remain within the same group (i.e., not switched from one group to another group), and with employees of the child care facilities only remaining with only one group of children.

5. 5) Can I still go to any of my medical appointments?

Yes

6. 6) Can I still buy groceries?

Yes

7. 7) Can I still buy gas for my vehicle?

Yes

8. 8) Are restaurants and bars required to close?

No. Restaurants and bars can remain open, but they would not be able to serve food and non-alcoholic beverages to patrons that would consume food and non-alcoholic beverages within the restaurant or bar. Instead, the restaurant or bar would be able to provide food and non-alcoholic beverages through drive thru, delivery, or carry out options. 

9. 9) I’m moving soon. Will my movers still be able to move my things to my new residence?

Yes

10. 10) Are banks, credit unions, and payday lending locations allowed to remain open?

Yes

11. 11) Can mental health service providers and substance abuse service providers remain open?

Yes

12. 12) Can my business have employees work from home?

Yes, this order encourages employees work from home, when feasible.

13. 13) Can gymnasiums and fitness clubs remain open?

No

14. 14) Can I still go for a walk or jog outdoors?

Yes

15. 15) Can golf courses stay open?

Yes, assuming participants comply with social distancing requirements (maintaining six feet of spacing) and there are no groups of more than 10 at such facility.

16. 16) Can leaders and employees from religious institutions still stream religious services or travel to provide religious counseling?

Yes

17. 17) Can food cultivation, livestock, farming, and fishing operations continue?

Yes

18. 18) Can homeless shelters, food pantries, and domestic violence victim’s shelters remain open?

Yes

19. 19) Can hotels remain open?

Yes, to the extent that individuals may stay in rooms or get food that may be delivered or carryout. Conferences and banquets with seated dining in the hotel would not be allowed.

20. 20a) Is there a limitation on the number of people that can be in a public gathering?

Yes – 10 people. A mass gathering that brings together or is likely to bring together 10 people is prohibited by Governor’s Executive Order

21. 20b) As long as there is 10 people or less then we’ll all be okay right?

If you are in a group in a single room or confined or enclosed space of 10 or less people should:
 1. Preserve social distancing of six feet between people; and
 2. Follow all other health recommendations and regulations

22. 21) Are mortuary, cremation, and burial services allow to continue?

Yes, but any related funeral services should comply with the 10 person limitation on public gatherings.

23. 22) Can my attorney’s office stay open?

Yes

24. 23) Can my accountant’s office stay open?

Yes

25. 24) I am closing on a new house next week, does this order require my realtor and the title company to be closed?

No

26. 25) Can my insurance agent’s office remain open?

Yes

27. 26) Can governing bodies for cities and the County still convene to perform their duties?

Yes, although social distancing requirements should be observed. The Kansas Open Meetings Act remains in force.

28. 27) My water heater broke and flooded my basement. Does this order require plumbers to be closed down?

No. Plumbers, electricians, lawn care and landscaping, painting, and other trades and service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences and other Essential Businesses may continue to operate under this order.

29. 28) Does this order halt residential or commercial construction?

No

30. 29) Does this order stop road repairs or ongoing bridge replacements?

No

31. 30) Can the library be open?

No

32. 31) Can automobile repair shops remain open?

Yes

33. 32) Can bicycle repair shops remain open?

Yes

34. 33) Does this order require arcades and video game stores to close?

Yes

35. 34) Are pawn shops allowed to remain open?

Yes, as long as they maintain the social distancing requirements (maintain six feet of spacing from another person)

36. 36) Can tattoo businesses remain open?

No

37. 35) Can bail bonds business continue to remain open?

Yes

38. 37) Are pharmacies required to close?

No, they can remain open

39. 38) Are massage businesses able to remain open?

No

40. 39) Does this order require adult entertainment establishments to close?

Yes

41. 40) Can movie theaters remain open?

No

42. 41) Can a home cleaning service continue to operate?

Yes

43. 42) Are home health care providers required to cease operations?

No

44. 43) Can direct service providers for individuals with development disabilities continue to operate?

Yes

45. 44) Can court-ordered guardians and conservators leave their homes to perform guardianship and conservatorship duties?

Yes

46. 45) Can I take my pet to the veterinarian?

Yes

47. 46) Can pet stores remain open?

Yes

48. 47) Can general clothing stores remain open?

No

49. 48) Can a clothing store that specializes in providing clothing to Essential Businesses (e.g., scrubs, uniforms to first responders) remain open?

Yes

50. 49) Are bouncy house and trampoline parks required to close?

Yes

51. 50) Can I check in on my elderly neighbor to ensure that they are okay?

Yes

52. 53) Can liquor stores remain open?

Yes

53. 51) Can I go to a public park?

Yes, but use of playground equipment is discouraged. Follow all closures posted by any of the Cities.

54. 52) Can an environmental testing laboratory for drinking water, pollutants or related matters continue to operate?

Yes

55. 54) Can foreign language interpreters and sign language interpreters continue to operate?

Yes

56. 55) Can car dealerships remain open?

Yes

57. 56) Can automobile repair supplies companies remain open?

Yes

58. 57) Can food trucks continue to operate?

Yes, but the food truck company should not allow the food and/or beverage to be consumed on-site, or at any other gathering site.

59. 58) Are swimming pools and water parks allowed to operate?

No

60. 59) Can landfill facilities continue to operate?

Yes

61. 60) Can utilities providers remain open?

Yes

62. 61) Are public transit services allowed to continue to operate?

Yes

63. 62) Would a restaurant supplies company be allowed to remain open?

Yes, because the business would provide Essential Business (restaurants) with supplies necessary to remain in operation.

64. 63) Can I drive my elderly relative who does not drive to their medical appointment?

Yes

65. 64) Are hearing aid centers essential healthcare?

Yes

66. 65) Are retail stores that sell diabetic shoe fittings and insoles an essential business?

Yes

67. 68) Is a marketing company considered a professional/essential service?

No

68. 66) Are stores that sell educational supplies that are utilized by home school parents essential?

Yes

69. 67) Can a store get into legal trouble for not closing?

Individuals and businesses are expected to voluntarily comply.

70. 69) Can small church groups under 10 continue to meet?

Yes

71. 70) Are tax preparer’s professional essential services?

Yes

72. 71) Do recovery groups such as AA count as healthcare?

Yes

73. 72) Does this stay-at-home order also provide a possibility for stay-in-your car activities?

Yes, as long as you stay in your car and are not congregating in a group as intended by the order.

74. 73) Are car washes and detailers essential?

No

75. 74) Would places that exclusively sell personal protection items (e.g., firearms, knives, and ammunition) be able to remain open?

Yes

76. 75) Is ride sharing (Uber, Lyft) public transportation?

Yes

77. 76) Are alternative medicine shops or clinics healthcare?

No, unless the FDA has approved these alternative medicines for some purpose.

78. 77) Do businesses that shop for or deliver groceries, food, beverages, goods or services directly to residences able to continue to fulfill online orders?

Yes, as long as they maintain the social distancing requirements

79. 78) What about the departments within an educational institution that are not directly involved in facilitating distance learning? Are those employees to remain at home or is it up to the employers to

They can remain open as long as social distancing is observed. If any of these employees can telecommute, that would be optimal.

80. 79) How are grocery stores able to operate since they are regularly more than 10 people there?

People generally visit grocery stores solo, as a pair, or as a family. They are spaced around the store far enough apart to maintain the 6 feet recommendation. People shopping in a grocery store is not considered a “gathering” because they are not in close proximity for more than a few moments. People passing by each other in a grocery aisle is safer than sitting in a room together for an extended period of time.

81. 80) Are hobby stores (JoAnn’s, Hobby Lobby) essential?

No

82. 81) Are tobacco and vaping stores essential?

No

83. 82) What measures does the order expect Essential Business to take to prevent the spread of COVID-19?

Where possible, Essential Businesses should:
 1. Designate 6 ft of spacing between employees and customers
 2. Make hand sanitizer, anti-microbial soap and other sanitizing products available to employees and customers
 3. Have separate operating hours for vulnerable populations
 4. Post information online or on the business about how best to reach the business and how services can be provided remotely

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Elected Offices - Attorney

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1. How does the Geary County Attorney’s Office receive cases for prosecution?

If a person is arrested on probable cause for felony offenses the case is sent to us. If a person is arrested on probable cause by the Geary County Sheriff’s Department or the Kansas Highway Patrol, the case will be sent here for prosecution whether it is a felony or misdemeanor offense. Many times a report is taken by law enforcement and sent to our office for review. The prosecutor assigned to review the case determines whether or not charges will be filed, and warrants issued.

2. What happens when a suspect is arrested?

If a suspect is booked into the Geary County Detention Facility on felony charges he/she is entitled to a bond hearing within 48 hours of his/her arrest. If the suspect is booked in on misdemeanor charges a bond schedule is used. The Court may set a bond that is either cash or surety. It may be a condition of bond that the defendant has no contact with the victim. If the defendant bonds out of jail he is then set for a first appearance.

3. What is a first appearance?

A first appearance is a hearing in which the defendant is informed of the charges filed against him/her. A lawyer may be appointed if the defendant cannot afford to hire an attorney. If the charges filed are misdemeanors, the case will usually be set for arraignment. If the charges are felonies, the case is set for a preliminary hearing.

4. What is a preliminary hearing?

In felony cases, the purpose of a preliminary hearing is for a district magistrate judge to determine if there is sufficient evidence to believe that probable cause exists that the defendant committed a felony offense. Subpoenas will be issued for the victim/witnesses involved in the incident. The court will determine if a defendant will be bound over on the felony charges alleged by the state.

5. What happens if a defendant is bound over on felony charges?

If a defendant is bound over on felony charges the case will be set before a district court judge for an arraignment. The purpose of an arraignment is to take the defendant’s plea and to set a date for trial. No victims or witnesses are required to appear at an arraignment.

6. What happens at an arraignment on misdemeanor cases?

The district magistrate judge will ask the defendant to enter a plea on this date. If the defendant enters a plea of not guilty it will then be set for bench trial or trial to the court before the district magistrate judge. No victims or witnesses are required to appear at an arraignment. In some cases, a defendant in a misdemeanor case may request a jury trial.

7. What happens at a jury trial?

The State of Kansas must begin by selecting a jury. After a jury has been impaneled, the State must present evidence. The defense may also choose to present evidence. 

Once both sides have rested, the jury is instructed on the law that applies to each charge alleged. Both parties are given the opportunity to give their closing arguments. The case is then submitted to the Jury and it is up to the jurors to render a verdict.

8. What is a subpoena?

A subpoena is a court order directing a person to appear at a particular date and time. A person must appear in court or risk being held in contempt of court. Any employer should not discharge, punish or threaten a person for attending a court proceeding when they have been served with a subpoena. 

If a person is experiencing difficulties with an employer regarding a court appearance or has any other questions, they need to contact the victim-witness coordinator immediately. A witness is entitled to receive a $10 per day witness fee plus mileage if they are traveling from out of the area.

9. How do I get my property back?

Property taken as evidence in a case, under usual circumstances, can be released back to the person from whom it was taken. A property release must be prepared and signed by a Judge prior to law enforcement releasing any property.

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Health Department

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1. Can I be seen at the Health Department if I do not have any insurance?

Yes, you can still be seen.  You would be offered an appointment time to meet with the Case Manger to see if you qualified for insurance through the state.  

If you do not qualify for insurance, the cost of your visit would be the responsibility of the patient or responsible party of that patient

2. What types of services do you provide?

• Blood Pressure Checks 
• Environmental Health Services 
• STI Testing
•  Counseling 
•  Treatment Immunizations
•  Outreach Prevention Early Intervention Case Management Services 
• Physicals- Sports, Kan-Be-Healthy, Daycare, HeadStart, School 
• Preparedness Planning 
• TB Testing 
• Women Clinic 
• Women Infants, Children (WIC)

3. What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check. We are able to process credit and debit cards with a small fee.

4. Do you accept walk-ins?

We accept walk-ins for the following procedures:

•  Immunizations
• STI Prevention & Testing
•  Counseling and Treatment
•  Pregnancy Tests
•  TB Testing 

Appointment are required for the following procedures: 

Physicals,  Well Women, Women Infants Children(WIC) & Paternity Testing

5. Where can I get information about traveling out of country?

CDC's Yellow Book (Health Information for International Travel) is published every two years as a resource for health professionals providing care to international travelers. The fully revised and updated CDC Yellow Book 2020 compiles the US government’s most current travel health guidelines, including pretravel vaccine recommendations, destination-specific health advice, and easy-to-reference maps, tables, and charts.

The 2020 Yellow Book includes important travel medicine updates:

• Recommendations for providing travel health care remotely via telemedicine
• Discussion of legal issues facing clinicians providing travel health care
• Cutting-edge rapid diagnostic tests for infectious diseases
• Introduction of new FDA-approved antimalarial drugs
• Road traffic safety advice for travelers
• Recommendations for treating infectious diseases in the face of increasing antimicrobial resistance

6. What types of insurance do you accept at the Health Department Clinic?

We accept most major medical insurances for immunizations only, and state insurance for other clinic visits. 

 For more information please contact the Geary County Health Department at 785-762-5788

7. Do I have to have a parent present to be seen for physicals or immunizations at the Health Department?

Yes, a parent is required to be present for children under 17 years of age, for physicals or immunizations.

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Register of Deeds - Deeds

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1. What is a deed?

A deed is an instrument by which a buyer obtains title to a piece of property being sold. A deed comes in many forms. The most common form of passing title is called a warranty deed. 

The seller warrants that he has a good and clear title and guarantees that his predecessors have no interest in the title. Another form commonly used is the quit claim deed. This is used to obtain a release from a person who is believed to have some interest or claim to the property. By this form of deed, the grantor “quits” any claim the grantor may have.

2. Does a deed have to be recorded?

Although there is no time limit on recording a deed, a deed should be recorded as promptly after the transaction as possible. Failure to record a deed could render transfer or mortgaging of the property impossible and create numerous legal difficulties. However, an unrecorded deed is still valid.

3. What if I lose my deed?

The primary evidence of ownership of land is not so much the deed itself as the recording of the deed. If your deed is misplaced or lost, a copy may be obtained from the Register of Deeds Office or certified with its official stamp. The copy may then be kept among the buyers' personal records.

4. How do I find the deed to my property?

The easiest way to locate your deed would be to supply the Register of Deeds Office with the legal description for your property. The staff will then look in the computer or the appropriate numerical land index book for your name to obtain the correct book and page number of your deed. 

If you do not know the legal description of your property the address can be entered into the Appraisers menu of the computer to obtain the correct legal description. Upon locating the book and page number you will then find a copy of your original deed. You may obtain a copy of your deed for a fee. And it can be certified for an additional fee of $13.

5. May I make my own deed?

Yes, you could, but the Register of Deeds and staff always recommends the retention of an attorney or you may also contact an Abstract and Title Company. The Register of Deeds Office is a recording agency and therefore cannot make out deeds or answer questions that pertain to legal matters.

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Register of Deeds - Liens

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1. What is a lien?

Many times the owner of the property may owe money to various creditors. The lien allows the creditors a means of preventing the property from being sold or mortgaged until the debt is paid. Among the many types of liens are tax liens (for nonpayment of taxes) and mechanics liens (for labor and materials furnished in construction). However, a mechanics lien on real property is filed with the Clerk of the District Court.

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Register of Deeds - The Office

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1. What is the Register of Deeds Office?

The Register of Deeds office is a place where all transactions having to do with real estate including most liens and mortgages are recorded and maintained so that the public is made aware of their existence. This is also a place where fixture filings are recorded under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC).

2. What is the Uniform Commercial Code?

The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) became effective in Kansas in 1966. The Uniform Commercial Code is a code developed for uniform filing on personal property throughout the USA. Like all “uniform” attempts, fees and other things are different, but the basic concepts of security regulations are more uniform.

The filing of a UCC financing statement is what perfects or secures the loan on consumer goods or personal property. UCC finance statements on personal property are now filed at the state level. UCC Fixture Filings which affect the land continue to be filed in the Register of Deeds Office.

3. Who runs the Register of Deeds Office?

A person referred to as the Register of Deeds administers the Register of Deeds Office, who in turn has a Deputy and a staff that performs various duties.

4. Who is the Register of Deeds?

The Register of Deeds is an elected official for a four-year term who makes certain that the documents are recorded properly according to the laws of the state and maintains and preserves those records. The current Register of Deeds is Diane Lynn Briestensky.

5. Where is the Register of Deeds Office located?

The office is located at the corner of 8th and Franklin Streets and across from the Geary County Detention Center at:
Geary County Office Building
200 E 8th Street
Junction City, KS  66441

6. What kinds of records would I find in the Register of Deeds office?

Our office records a diverse range of very technical documents. Besides deeds, mortgages, and liens, there are:

• Corporate records
• Easements
• Land Surveys for land within Geary County
• Military Discharge Records (Per K.S.A. 45-221 (46) Exempt from Open Records)
• Mortgage Assignments
• Oil and Gas Leases
• Plats of Additions to the cities of Geary County
• Power of Attorneys
• Releases
• Restrictive Covenants

7. How far back do the records go?

The earliest records in the Register of Deeds Office, written in elaborate manuscript, date back to the 1800s when we were known as Davis County. Among the early records are the Patent Deeds recorded when the land was bought from the United States government that is signed by the President of the United States.

8. What happens to a document when it is brought to the Register of Deeds?

There are a number of steps taken when a document is received for recording before it is returned to the customer. 

1. The document is evaluated for obvious errors and recordability and the correct fee is received
2. The document is entered into the computer system. 
3. This action generates a label containing the Register of Deeds signature and county seal as well as:
   • Book amount
   • Date
   • Fee amount.
   • Page amount
   • Time
4. This label will be affixed to the document. 
5. The recorded document is imaged and data entered into the computer system creating a permanent record for archival and reproduction purposes before being returned to the customer. 
6. The document is indexed in the numerical Land Index books and/or the miscellaneous Direct and Indirect books.

9. Who do I talk to in the Register of Deeds Office about matters?

The office staff at the front counter as you enter the Register of Deeds Office will be more than happy to answer your questions. It is better if you personally visit the office. However, if you cannot you may obtain certain information over the phone. 

Since there are certain kinds of information that can only be answered by an attorney it would not be suitable to have the information given you by one who is not an attorney. Basically the Register of Deeds office is a recording agency only and therefore the information it provides is limited to that which is contained in the records. If you call, the number is 785-238-5531. The Register of Deeds Office is open to the public during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding state and national holidays.

10. What are the fees for recording instruments in the Register of Deeds Office?

State law sets the recording fees, which are $17 for the first page and $13 for each additional page. In addition, there is a technology fee charged of $2 per page for the Register of Deeds Office, $0.50 per page each for Treasurer's and Clerk's Office and $1 per page for Heritage Trust Fund. A release or assignment of mortgage is $16 per mortgage listed regardless of the number of pages (the technology fees and Heritage Trust fee also applies to be an additional $4 per page), and Plats of Additions are $32 per page. 

The recording fees for the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) fixture filings are $15 for up to 10 pages and $1 per page after that. The fee for certifying a copy of record is $13. The previous Mortgage Registration Fee is no longer collected per KSA 28-115. These fees listed are accurate as of January 2019.

11. How long will it take for a deed or other document to be returned?

After imaging and indexing, the documents are sorted and envelopes addressed ready to be placed in the mail within 24 to 48 hours of recording. In some instances, it is possible the document may be ready to be returned the same day.

12. Can I locate the mortgage on my property in the Register of Deeds Office?

Yes, mortgages are listed in the numerical land index books, as are the deeds.

13. Can I record property in the Geary County Register of Deeds Office if the property is not located in this county?

No, the property or part of it has to be located in Geary County.

14. Can the Register of Deeds Office tell me if I have a good and clear title?

No. Professional title examiners or abstractors use the records in our office as well as searching records in other offices to determine if the title is good and clear.

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Rural Fire Department - Burn Permits

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1. When do I need a burn permit?

What You Need a Burn Permit For

Geary County rural residents are issued burn permits for the following instances:

• Burning brush piles
• Burning fallen wood
• Crop management

Household trash burning in the unincorporated areas of the county does not require a burn permit as long as the trash is burned in a metal can or barrel with a screen covering or in a pit.

What Permits Will Not Be Issued For

Permits will not be issued for the burning of debris to include:

• Lumber
• Lumber products
• Shingles
• Tires

Fires

All fires must be monitored until the fire is out!

Large Quantities of Timber

Permits issued through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is required for large amounts of timber. We can assist in filling out the paperwork, but please be aware that it can take several days to receive a state permit.

2. How do I obtain a Geary County burn permit?

Any resident desiring a burn permit in Geary County must make an application for the permit Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Geary County Emergency Management Office located at 236 E 8th Street. There is no charge for a burn permit. Information needed for the application includes:

• Name
• Telephone number and address of the applicant
• Location of the burn site 

Once the permit is issued, it is in effect for the calendar year. Permits expire when not in use for over two years.

3. What do I need to do before starting a burn?

Prior to starting a burn, the person wishing to burn must call the Geary County Emergency Management at 785-238-1290 and receive permission to burn. 

You will need to provide the following information when calling in your burn:

• Name
• Burn permit number
• Location of burn
• The start time of burn

Please note that if wind speeds are predicted to be at 15 miles per hour or higher, there will be a ban on burning for that day! This is a state regulation.

4. When am I not allowed to burn?

There are several instances when permission can be denied for burning. Such reasons can include but are not limited to the following:

• Weather forecast
• Wind speed
• Other burns out of control
• Any other unforeseen conditions

If you do not receive permission to burn, do not start the fire! 

5. What do I do if the fire gets out of control?

If you have a fire get out of control, call 9-1-1. Do not call Geary County Emergency Services.

6. Is there someplace I can check to see if burning is allowed?

The Geary County Emergency Management Facebook Page has a website gives residents an update when burning is not allowed.  Those wanting to burn will still need to call into the office at 785-238-1290, so their burn can be recorded.

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Tax Department - Tax Sale General Information

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1. Can I register to participate prior to the day of the sale?

No. You must register in person the morning of the tax sale between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.

2. Can I place bids ahead of time on the available properties?

No. The sale is a public auction. Properties will be sold to the highest bidder.

3. How do I pay for property purchased at a tax sale?

The Clerk of the District Court will accept cash, personal checks, and certified checks. No payments by credit card will be accepted, and properties must be paid for by the close of the sale.

4. How can I get my property out of a tax sale?

You may redeem your property by contacting the County Treasurer's Office at 785-238-6021 and by paying all taxes, interest, penalties, and court costs assessed against the property. You may redeem the property up to 5 p.m. the day before the tax sale.

5. The newspaper listed a property that will be auctioned off on the courthouse steps. How do I get more information on it?

Properties that are auctioned off "on the courthouse steps" are being foreclosed on by a private mortgage company (a "Sheriff's Sale"). You must contact the attorney representing the mortgage company. That name and contact information will be in the Notice of Sale published in the newspaper