Capitol Dome, school funding, tax reform

The Capitol's copper dome and roof need to be replaced not repaired, according to the statehouse architect. He reported to the governor's office the estimated replacement will cost $10.3 million for the dome and $11.3 million for the roof.

The original dome was completed in 1903 and is constructed of hollow clay tiles set into an iron truss and brace system covered with sheet copper. The dome was repaired in 2000 and treated with patina chemicals to achieve a verdigris color.

However, in less than seven years the treatment was failing. In 2002, the Ad Astra statue was placed on top of the capitol dome. The statue is 22 feet tall, weighing 4,400 pounds. The statehouse architect indicated that the statue has not contributed to the needed repairs. However, this statement has been questioned.

A contracting company was hired in 2007 to assess the condition of the copper and the dome. It was reported that "most of the original construction was found to be sound but some improper detailing had led to recurring failures." They did not feel comfortable recommending an alternate chemical to repair the failing patina but did make recommendations for targeted repairs to greatly extend the practical life of the dome. It seems that the report in 2007 contradicts the recommendation made Friday Statehouse Architect of replacing the dome.

According to reports, the initial project in 2001 started as a $13 million underground garage, which became a Capitol renovation project estimated to cost $90 to $120 million. The Department of Administration contracted Treanor Architects to do the architectural design work and J.E. Dunn for construction management services.

By 2005, the estimated budget had increased to $162 million; by 2006, it increased to $172.5 million; and by 2007, the estimated budget was $211.3 million.

In 2011, the estimate was increased to $319.9 million. The scope of this project appears to not have been clearly defined and/or is constantly changing -- a sure way to go overbudget.

During the State of the State, to be given Jan. 11, 2012 at 6:30 p.m., the governor will propose an education funding plan and a tax reform plan. I have not seen the proposed legislation on either plan. The current education funding formula uses "weightings" -- increasing monetary compensation based on enrollment and other criteria.

Some are speculating the governor's plan does away with weightings and distributes the money based on each district's property wealth, with poorer districts getting a larger share. The tax reform plan is said to be "simpler, fairer and flatter."

The 2012 legislative session will address some very important topics. Besides the governor's proposed plans, redistricting, illegal immigration, KPERS, Medicaid reform, the state budget and others will be addressed. I will work to keep you updated as the session progresses.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Editor's Note: Rep. Caryn Tyson, R-Parker, can be reached at (913) 898-2366, or Caryn.Tyson@house.ks.gov.