Change in county boundaries; initiation of process; hearings; election

(a) The boards of county commissioners of any two or more counties may adopt a resolution changing the boundaries of such counties. Such resolution shall describe the change desired. Such resolution shall not be effective until the question has been submitted to and approved by a majority of the voters of each of the counties voting at an election thereon as provided by K.S.A. 18-201 et seq., and amendments thereto. (b) Upon presentation of a petition requesting a change in the boundaries of two or more counties signed by at least 5% of the qualified electors of the county, the board of county commissioners shall adopt a resolution changing the boundaries as requested by the petition. Such resolution shall not be effective until the question has been submitted to and approved by a majority of the voters of each of the counties voting at an election thereon as provided by K.S.A. 18-201 et seq., and amendments thereto. (c) At least three public hearings shall be called and held on any resolution adopted pursuant to this section. At least one hearing shall be held in each county affected by the proposed change. Notice of such hearing shall be published in a newspaper or newspapers of general circulation in each county affected at least three times prior to the date of each hearing.