1968 Chevy Caprice SS by Carolyn Tucker

Carolyn Tucker. Submitted photo.

Keys to the Kingdom

Carolyn Tucker

 

When I was in high school, my parents allowed me to drive the family car when I needed to go somewhere. This beautiful car had a great-running 327 under the hood, glass packs, and skirts to boot! One reason I loved this car was because it had a lot of power. My Dad was a top GM salesman and because of this, I took a special interest in cars. None of his vehicles were run-of-the-mill during my growing-up years. I’d love to wrap my hands around another ‘68 Caprice steering wheel and cruise around the Stockton Dam.

We’d been married about five years when Jimmy and I sold our ’74 Monte Carlo and bought a different car (which shall remain make-and-model nameless). I hated that car because it had no power. I had to have a straight highway as long as an F-105 Thunderchief runway to pass anybody. A driver eventually finds himself in a tight spot and needs to “romp it” to prevent an accident. Well, this car couldn’t be romped. You could not depend on it when you needed power, because it was a pathetic wimp!

Biblically speaking, there are spiritual wimps and spiritual hot rods. And I refuse to be part of the wimps running with their shirt-tails on fire. Jesus suffered great agony to provide everything believers would need to live victoriously. “God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind“ (2 Timothy 1:7 KJV). Choose to really believe what the Bible says and be radically obedient to God, and you will have the same power working in you that raised Jesus from the dead.

The definition of power is the ability to do something or act in a particular way. At weddings, the minister says, “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.” A Power of Attorney has authority over the affairs of another individual. Tim Allen starred in the successful “Home Improvement” TV show for eight seasons, focusing on “more power!” Of course, the spiritual power that comes from God is of greater value than any earthly power.

He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power” (Isaiah 40:29 NASB). God promises to give strength for our journey so we can walk steady on with increasing power. When reading these wonderful scriptures, make sure you’re believing and applying them for yourself. Victory is not the absence of problems, it’s the presence of God’s power working in and through His children.

The Apostle Paul writes to the faithful followers of Christ Jesus: “I pray for you constantly, asking God…to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe Him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms“ (Ephesians 1:16,17,19-21 NLT). How can we fail to have spiritual victory if we allow this power to fill our lives? If our problem is no bigger than raising Christ from the dead, then God can take care of it.

The Key: Spiritually speaking, God is offering you a Holley four-barrel carburetor. Take it, don’t leave it.

Pittsburg Youth Chorale Spring Enrollment Open

Area singers in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade are invited to join Pittsburg Youth Chorale, directed by MJ Harper.

The purpose of this vocal ensemble is to further grow vocal abilities, musical knowledge, and choral repertoire.

Performers will prepare music for community events and music festivals. COVID guidelines will be observed.

Rehearsals are Tuesdays from 6-7PM at First United Methodist Church, 415 N. Pine, Pittsburg, KS and begin February 23rd.

There is a fee of $25 per semester (Sept-Dec/Feb-May) to cover the cost of music.

Scholarships are available. To enroll, contact MJ Harper at 620-719-6633 or email [email protected], deadline
February 23rd.

Are You the One in Ten?

Joy Miller, RD, LD
Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent
Adult Development and Aging
Family Resource Management
K-State Research and Extension
Southwind Extension District
210 S. National
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Office: 620-223-3720
Fax: 620-223-0332
[email protected]

 

Dining with Diabetes program to help cut diabetes risks

 

Imagine a gathering with 10 of your friends and family members. Now imagine that at least one of you has a disease that can lead to blindness…or amputation…or a stroke. The prospect is not at all far-fetched.

About one in 10 Kansans has been diagnosed with diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by elevated blood sugar (blood glucose). High levels of blood glucose are a result of inadequate production of insulin or a resistance to the effects of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.

Diabetes increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, or retinopathy that can cause blindness and neuropathy leading to lower limb amputation.

The vast majority of adults who are diagnosed with diabetes – 90 to 95 percent – have Type 2 diabetes which occurs when cells in the body become resistant to the effects of insulin. Prediabetes is a condition in which the blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Unlike Type 1, which occurs when the body cannot produce insulin and cannot be prevented, the onset of Type 2 can be prevented.

Risk factors for prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes include being overweight, age 45 or older, and low levels of physical activity (less than three times per week). Other risk factors include having a family member (parent, brother, or sister) with type 2 diabetes, or having gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy). To a small degree, race, ethnicity, and gender contribute to overall risk, too.

Some risk factors cannot be changed such as age and family history, but others can be modified. This includes managing your weight, being active, eat healthier, and if you smoke, quit. A quick assessment of your risk can be done at the American Diabetes Association website www.diabetes.org/dibetes-risk/tools-know-your-risk, takes less than a minute,.

Adults with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, and their family members, caregivers, and support persons may be interested in K-State Research and Extension Dining with Diabetes online course beginning March 1. Individuals will learn strategies to manage diabetes through menu planning, carbohydrate counting, portion control, and label reading. The five week course is self-paced and participants can choose the level of interaction with the instructor and other participants.

Cost is $25, class size limited, and registration required by February 18th at southwind.ksu.edu/events. For more information or questions, contact Joy Miller at 620-223-3720 or e-mail [email protected].

Bourbon County Commission Agenda For Feb. 2

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: February 2, 2021

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jim Harris Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

 

MEETING WILL BE HELD IN COMMISSION ROOM. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.

Call to Order

 

  • Flag Salute
  • Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
  • Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
  • Jim Harris – Discussion of Commission Meeting Dates and Times
  • Lynne Oharah – Chief Elected Officials Agreement
  • Lora Holdridge – Roads and Correction of Resolution
  • Lynne Oharah – Apprenticeship Program
  • Cereal Malt Beverage License
  • Lynne Oharah – Executive Session, KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
  • Jim Harris – Executive Session, KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
  • County Counselor
  • Public Comments

Anne Dare, Wind Turbine Update

  • Commission Comments

Justifications for Executive Session:

          KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy

          KSA 75-4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship

          KSA 75-4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency

          KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships

          KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property

          KSA 75-4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.

What’s Happening In Fort Scott January 29

What’s Happening
in Fort Scott
January 29th
Weekly Edition
UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS
________________
TODAY ~ JANUARY 29TH “KANSAS DAY”
Patrons wearing apparel with Kansas or Sunflower will receive 10% off their Purchase!
 Participating stores will have a Kansas Day poster in their place of business.
Click HERE for a flyer of participating businesses, or see flyer below.
________________
GUIDED TOURS OF THE FORT DAILY, 10 AM & 1 PMThe Fort Scott National Historic Site is open daily 8 am-5 pm for touring on your own, but arrive at 10 am or 1 pm on any day and take advantage of a guided tour with a park ranger! The guided tour lasts approx. 1 hour.
1/29 – Karaoke Friday Nights at The Boiler Room Brewhaus! Experience or beginners, it does not matter! Let’s have some fun with music & drinks! Click here for their FB page.
1/29-30 – Livestock sale at the Fort Scott Livestock Market, both Friday & Saturday, click here for their FB page.
1/30 – Real Estate & Personal Property Auction of the Roxine Poznich Trust, 10 am, 1519 E. Pine St. by Chamber member Anderson Auction Service. Click here for all the info
1/30- Pickleball from 8-10 am at Buck Run, open to anyone wanting to play! Always check the FB Group page here for any location changes or cancelations. Tuesday, Thursday & Saturdays
1/30 – American Legion Riders Chapter 25, meets at Memorial Hall, 10am
2/4 – Day is Done Paint Class by Happy Snappy Art & Paint Parties, 1-4pm, click here for info.
2/6 – All You Can Eat Pancakes, Silent Auction & Bake Sale, 1First Southern Baptist Church, 8am to 2pm. See flyer below for details.
Radio Auction by KOMB FM 103.9 every Thursday & Friday through February at 2 pm! Get your bid # and view the items on their website here. In addition to calling in your bid, you can also bid online this year and even “Buy it Now” ~ or bid by text to 620-724-7962.
Monday, February 1st, New Fort Scott
City Manager Jeremy Frazier takes his position!
Jeremy Frazier was selected by the Fort Scott City Commission in a unanimous vote to become the next City Manager in January 2021. Welcome!
FITNESS FOR EVERYONE IN FS!
Many fitness options are available…
  • SPIN classes now offered by Smallville Athletics, every Mon & Wed at 5:15 pm, and Tues & Thurs at 6 pm. $5/class or $50/mo. unlimited.
  • Total Body Fitnesswith Karen Reinbolt at Buck Run Community Center, Mon & Wed 8:15 am $20 for 8-week session.
  • Zumba with Monalynn Decker at Buck Run, Mon, Wed, Fri 6 pm, $40 for a 12-week session.
  • Indoor Fitness/Gyms at I AM Rehab + Fitness, Smallville Athletics, and Buck Run!
SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!
Downtown Fort Scott is booming!
Click here for Chamber member
specialty shopping & other retail in
Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.
GIVE A TOAST TO THE SUNFLOWER STATE ON KANSAS DAY! #ToTheStarsKS
WELCOME TO FORT SCOTT’S NEW CITY MGR.!
FORT SCOTT CINEMA SHOWTIMES!
UPCOMING PROGRAMS AT BUCK RUN
PANCAKE FEED & BAKE SALE NEXT SATURDAY!
2-DAY JOB FAIR TO BE HOSTED BY TIMKEN!
JOB SEEKING IN THE FORT SCOTT AREA
YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW
LOOKING FOR A JOB IN FORT SCOTT?
Give a Like to our Fort Scott Jobs FB page!
Clickherefor link.
Visit the Jobs posted by Chamber members
on our website fortscott.com!
Click here to view jobs.
See additional Job Seeker resources below!
JOB SEEKER RESOURCES
FOR CAREER SEARCHING IN THE FORT SCOTT AREA
The Chamber posts a “JOB OF THE DAY” posting on our Social Media accounts as requested by area employers or as we notice them in the newspaper and various employment websites.
           Chamber Social Media accounts
where jobs are posted:
Facebook:
o  Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce @fortscottchamber
o  Fort Scott Jobs – Fort Scott, Kansas @fortscottjobs
Instagram:
o  Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce @fortscottchamber
Twitter:
o  Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce @FSChamber
LinkedIn:
o

FS City Commission Meeting Agenda For Feb. 2

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL

CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
FEBRUARY 2, 2021
6:00 P.M.

Call to Order

  1. Roll Call:

K. Allen P. Allen R. Nichols L. Watts J. Jones

II. Flag Salute:

  1. Invocation: Led by: Steven Cole, First United Methodist Church

  2. Approval of Agenda:

  3. Proclamations/Recognitions:

  4. Consent Agenda:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of January 19th, 2021 and special meeting minutes of January 19th, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1281-A totaling $345,26816.

  1. Certificate of Appropriateness – 6 N. Main – Paint color approval

  1. Request to Pay – Suez Treatment Solutions, Inc. – Water Treatment Plant – $15,784.70

  1. Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

  1. Interim City Manager Reports and Comments

  1. Director Reports: Doug Guns

  1. Old Business: None

  1. Appearances: None

  1. New Business:

  1. Consideration to solicit Aquatic Center Cleaning Bid

  2. Consideration of Alley Construction Policy

  3. Consideration of Assessment Waiver Policy

  4. Consideration of Assessment Policy for County Tax Sale

  5. Consideration of Kansas Municipal Utilities Training Program for 2021

  6. Consideration to accept C.FA.P. Grant for $1,317.00.

  7. Discussion of Charter Ordinance for replacing vacant Commissioner position

XII. Reports and Comments:

B. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

C. City Attorney Reports and Comments:

XIII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)

XIV. Adjournment:

FS City Commission Minutes of Jan. 19 Meeting

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of January 19th, 2021 Regular Meeting #2

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held January 19th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners P. Allen, K. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Jones presiding.

INVOCATION: Pastor William Downey, Fort Scott Police Department Chaplain, Part Time Police Officer, Margrave Church of God , said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Jeff Hancock, Rachel Pruitt, Anne Rawlins, Dave Bruner, William Downey, Lindsey Madison, Max Fanning, Kristin Bishop, and Kendall Madison. Jeff Deane, City Attorney, was present via Zoom.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA: Mayor Jones asked to amend the agenda to add Consideration of the Employment of a City Manager to the agenda.

L. Watts moved to add the Employment of a City Manager to the agenda. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ADD THE EMPLOYMENT OF A CITY MANAGER TO THE AGENDA.

K. Allen moved to add to the agenda the 15 day notice to terminate the current Interim City Manager Jeff Hancock. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ADD THE 15 DAY TERMINATION NOTICE FOR THE CURRENT INTERIM CITY MANAGER.

L. Watts moved to approve the Employment Agreement for the new City Manager, Jeremy Frazier. This will be effective February 1st, 2021. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT OF JEREMY FRAZIER, NEW CITY MANAGER, EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 1ST, 2021.

Mayor Jones that they had several good interviews and this candidate was approved unanimously.

K. Allen moved to notify the current Interim City Manager of the 15 day termination period. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO NOTIFY THE CURRENT INTERIM CITY MANAGER OF THE 15 DAY TERMINATION PERIOD. HIS LAST DAY WILL BE FEBRUARY 3rd, 2021.

Commissioners all thanked Jeff Hancock for the great job he has done while he has been Interim City Manager.

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of January 5th, 2021 and special meeting minutes of January 9th, 2021 and January 14th, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1280-A totaling $519,586.80.

  1. Request to Pay – Lauber Municipal Law (December) – $11,777,50.

  1. Request to Pay – H.D.R. Engineering – River Intake Project – $8,787.50.

  1. December financials

R. Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. J. Jones, R. Nichols, and L. Watts voted aye. P. Allen and K. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

Anne Rawlins – Ms. Rawlins said that she had two items. She said that as they are aware, she and Shirley Hurd have worked very diligently on the Mayhugh Cemetery. It has been approved by the State as an archaeological site with both sites #1 and #2 named. She read a note from Shirley Hurd: “I would like to remind the Commissioners and inform the new Commissioners of the meeting from October 6th, 2020 when she presented information on the Mayhugh Cemetery located just north of the City’s wastewater treatment plant. The Mayhugh was active with burials from 1868 to 1937. Recent photographs were given to her that were taken from the 1960’s showing that the Mayhugh Cemetery still had several tombstones but it was overgrown with brush and fallen trees. It was in this condition up until at least 1965 as told by the person that owned the photographs. In 1973, when Gerald Wood visited the site, there were no tombstones on site. Gerald asked the owner of the surrounding land and was told that Bourbon County dozed the stones into a nearby creek or river and was told to use the nearby land for farm ground. She asked the City to make a donation to the Mayhugh Cemetery Memorial Wall project. This memorial stone will have the names of at least 175 Fort Scott and Bourbon County residents that are buried in this cemetery. This project should have been completed years ago. She hopes this year that all buried in the Mayhugh Cemetery will be honored with a memorial stone as they should be. Your donation would be very much appreciated.” Ms. Rawlins asked if the City was willing to make a donation. The previous City Manager said there would be a donation made from the City for this project. At this time, they don’t have a location picked out. It could be Skubitz Plaza. They are looking at grants for assistance to get the memorial stone. It will be quite large. We need matching funds to get the grant. They would like to raise $10,000 and have about $3,000 raised. Any additional funds could be used to tell the story next to the memorial stone.

Her second item is the Old Fort Genealogical Library. Their board met last night. She asked the City Commission for a permanent move from the west side of Memorial Hall to the east side of Memorial Hall where the old City offices were. They would like to be housed there. They will need to get estimates for the south interior wall that had water damage, and removal of the temporary walls, and painting estimates. She said that they have outgrown their location where they are currently housed. They have numerous visitors to the library daily. She said that she is excited there is a vault at that location. They have lots of negatives that need to be housed there. She said that there is a Katy Railroad museum in Texas that is interested in relocating in Kansas. That is a possibility that where they are located now could house this new museum.

Susan Bancroft informed them that Memorial Hall was built for the Veterans. It is currently used by the American Legion which is very active. Also, the City has items in the vault that are stored there.

Interim City Manager Report and Comments: Jeff Hancock said that there are director reports included after his memo that they can review as well as an annual report. The work session next week will be held on the LandBank and special assessments.

Director Reports: Rachel Pruitt, Economic Development Director – Rachel informed the Board that she wished to give them an update on economic development. In 2020, there have been grants for housing, business support, and public safety totaling $1,400,126. The average selling price of real estate since 2016 has increased 45%. Since 2015, the downtown investment has totaled $26.6 million. The City received a CDBG Revolving Loan in the amount of $265,709 in funding and was recognized by the State of Kansas for their quick work in assisting 33 companies with grants resulting in 219 retained jobs during this pandemic. The City was also recognized by RAU Construction for their assistance in support of the Union Lofts project.

Rachel also updated the Commission on a project update for the CHC Walk-In Clinic on National. This clinic continues to experience a high volume of patients including the need for an expanded area to handle COVID testing. To assist them with a solution, the City can offer part of the Public Safety parking area. The City owns the adjacent properties. In order to do this, the VFW shed that houses the flags placed on East National through the National Cemetery are housed there. There is a proposed location on the south end of Buck Run Community Center. She and Ally met with the VFW Board on January 12th and the VFW Board understands the needs and supports the relocation of the shed. CHC will also gravel and place parking blocks for 30 additional parking spaces.

R. Nichols thanked Rachel for the update on economic development. Economic development covers many things. We have committed two legs of our three legged stool. We have our infrastructure on track. Our quality of life issues like police and fire are also covered. All of these things are dependent on us having a robust economy. We have spent zero time talking about how we are going to develop this. Bedco is developing itself into an entity. He thinks the City will still need an economic forward facing organization in order to interact with them. Everything else is dependent on continued economic development. He asked that we hold one of our work sessions on economic development and what kinds of grants are available. We need to get ourselves positioned so we know where we stand to best use our resources and stabilize our economic development.

Old Business: None

Appearances: Kristin Bishop – Splash Pad Update – Kristin Bishop appeared before the Commission to give a splash pad update. She said that back in August of 2019 she was watching a movie set in a small town. She posted a Facebook post and asked what people were looking for in Fort Scott. The big response was a splash pad. She then asked why this would fit well in Fort Scott. A lot of responses were received and compiled. It would provide a healthy and fun activity. It would accommodate every citizen no matter what age. It would be a tourist attraction. It could provide an alternative summer activity. It would provide a secondary area in another part of town. She and her husband looked at locations, equipment, design, and the cost estimate. Their location is Gunn Park and the flat area by Shelter House #1 where the big slide used to be. She talked to a company called Play Scape Recreation. They estimated about $260,000 to construct this splash pad. She thanked Josh Jones and Seth Needham for their assistance. She said that COVID has slowed this project down.

Chad Brown said that there is only a 2” line going into the park. How the water will recirculate is also an issue to consider.

Susan Bancroft said that there are some areas that need to be researched first. The first would be the liability issue and if it would be covered by our insurance. Also, Bill Maquire, who is a direct descendant of the Gunn family, would need to be contacted and his approval received. Also, how would this area be kept clean and how many trees would need to be removed. She asked if City Staff can research this and then bring it back before the Commission.

New Business:

  1. Emergency Medical Services Contract and Approval of Medical Director Contract – Dave Bruner, Fire Chief, informed the Commission that the Bourbon County EMS call activity for 2020 was 2,321 calls for service; 1,702 total transports; 619 dry runs; and 711 transfers. The Emergency Medical Services Contract did not need any action as this is a continuous service agreement. The Medical Director Contract does need action. For the last two years, Dr. Katrina Burke has served as the Medical Director for Bourbon County E.M.S. He asked for approval to renew this contract. The cost of $10,000 per year remains the same.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Medical Director Contract for Dr. Katrina Burke for Bourbon County E.M.S. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE MEDICAL DIRECTOR CONTRACT FOR DR. KATRINA BURKE FOR THE BOURBON COUNTY E.M.S.

  1. Sewer District #1 – Refinancing of Bonds – Lynne Oharah – Lynne Oharah, Chairman, Bourbon County Commission, informed the City Commission that they recently refunded their jail bond and saved $366,699.82. They are looking into refinancing the Sewer District bonds also. They plan to pay these bonds off early.

K. Allen left the room at 7:22 p.m.

  1. Consideration to Pay – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – Port-a-Potties (December) – $1914.50 – R. Nichols moved to approve the invoice for Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. in the amount of $1,914.50 for the month of December 2020. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED INVOICE FOR SKITCH’S HAULING & EXCAVATION, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,914.50 FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 2020.

K. Allen returned to the room at 7:23 p.m.

Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

L. Watts – Lindsey said that she is excited for our future. She thanked Jeff Hancock and said it will be bittersweet when he leaves. She is excited when the public can meet the new City Manager possibly next week.

R. Nichols – Randy said that we need to be sure we have a representative from the Bourbon County Commission for the LandBank board.

P. Allen – Pete said that he had several items. The first is 14th and Scott. He shared photos of what that area looks like on his phone. He discussed how the 15” pipe was totally clogged up and the time frame it took for the City to respond. He said that he would like to see this manhole cleaned up. It still looks bad. He would like to see it cleaned up properly.

Josh said that you wouldn’t want this in your own yard.

Jeff Hancock said that we will get it cleaned up.

Cooper Street Project – Pete also brought up the Cooper Street project. He shared standard specifications for streets. He went to the K.D.O.T. guidelines and they fit this street perfectly. He would like to see us adopt these standards and specifications for Cooper Street.

Chad said that David George of AG Engineering has been out surveying this street and should finish up soon.

Chad stated if the quiet zone ever moved south to that railroad crossing that Cooper Street would have to be relocated.

Chad also stated that waterline materials will need to be ordered. They have some in stock but he will put in an order this week for the remainder of the items.

Discussion was held regarding shutting the street completely down or leaving part of it open.

Chad said that they can shut the street down but leave it open to the residents and businesses in that area.

Jeff Hancock asked for time to review this and bring back to the Commission at the next meeting.

K. Allen said that he would like to see East National widened by the railroad tracks so people can go around when people are waiting on a train and then waiting to turn south on Cooper Street. It backs up traffic otherwise.

Ordinance #2842 – Pete said that this ordinance was adopted in 1982 and we should be enforcing it. We are $40 million short in our sewer fund. The Utility Director said that it will take $21 million to repair all of our sewers. He thinks the City Commission should make it a standard that this ordinance is enforced. The voters said no to Charter Ordinance No. 31 and they want the money left in the account it is intended for. This needs to stop. He proposed this be strictly enforced in the City of Fort Scott.

R. Nichols asked that we table this at this time.

Susan explained this ordinance to Pete. She also explained Charter Ordinance No. 31 to him. We’ve discussed this over many meetings. There is a State Statute that trumps our ordinance. Charter Ordinance No. 31 was not about this ordinance. This is a suggestion of how the funds should be moved. You made every effort at our special meeting last week and we made no transfers from our utility funds to our general fund and the money stayed where it was supposed to stay.

J. Jones said that we have abided by this ordinance.

Susan said yes and it was abided by. You did decide to move a little from the stormwater fund to the sewer fund. To change this law would require a Charter Ordinance. Every financial decision that is made is made by the Governing Body.

Memorial Hall Lights – Pete said that he stopped by Memorial Hall and there was a company there changing the lights. He doesn’t see where we are getting any more light. The pickleball courts are not under the lights that are up there. They are more up towards the stage. He asked if City staff could check into this tomorrow so they can see to play pickleball.

K. Allen – Kevin said that he had a few things to discuss:

Lake Meeting – Kevin said that he attended a lake meeting last Saturday. The discussion of the water quality at Lake Fort Scott came up due to the green algae. He asked if Michael Mix could take water samples and check the quality. They wonder if the water would be unhealthy.

Jeff Hancock said that he would have him do this.

Discussion was held if K.D.H.E. checks at the lake or not.

Dilapidated Boat Docks – Kevin said that there was discussion on dilapidated boat docks and if there is a process to remove them. These would be personal docks that belong to lake owners.

Josh said that the Codes Department used to do inspections on the docks many years ago.

Jeff Hancock will check on this.

Winter Work – Kevin asked again if there were workers in other departments that could assist the Street Department with repairs. They could assist in brick street repair.

Jeff Hancock said that they will discuss this at the Director meeting.

Stop Signs on National Avenue – He asked about the stop signs again at 1st, 2nd and 3rd Street on National. It is no longer an avenue having to stop at all three locations.

Chad said the traffic signals were eliminated at 3rd and National as they were out of date and we couldn’t get parts any longer. His recommendation was to leave north and southbound traffic open but to stop east and west traffic.

Josh said that he would like to see the stop sign removed at 1st and National.

Travis Shelton said that there have been no accidents at those locations for quite some time that he can remember.

City Clerk reminded them on Wednesday nights at the Methodist Church there is a lot of people that walk to Feeding Families in His Name and use the 3rd Street crosswalk.

City Clerk also told Kevin Allen that a former City Commissioner made the motion for the stop sign at 2nd Street. She said that it is hard to cross National when you are attempting to get to the Post Office.

K. Allen made a motion to remove the stop signs at 1st and 2nd Street on National for north and southbound traffic.

Josh asked him if he should just try for 1st Street first and see how that goes.

K. Allen amended his motion to remove the stop sign at 1st and National for northbound and southbound traffic. P. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, R. Nichols, and J. Jones voted aye. L. Watts voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED TO REMOVE STOP SIGN AT 1ST AND NATIONAL FOR NORTHBOUND AND SOUTHBOUND TRAFFIC.

Kevin said that he is sad to see Jeff Hancock leave, but he thinks the public will really like the new incoming City Manager.

Main Street Lights – Josh said that he brought up that there were some broken street lights on Main Street and asked if they had been repaired.

Chad said that we need to order more globes for the lights, and they will be changed as soon as possible.

J. Jones – Josh said that he had a question on UTV licensing.

UTV Licensing – Josh asked if the UTV Ordinance could be amended and have the title registration that has to be shown to renew the license removed from the ordinance. He said that the Sheriff’s Department cannot do VIN inspections on out of state titles.

Travis Shelton said that the Courthouse contacted the City about this. They are missing out on sales tax when these UTV’s are not registered with the County. This has been in the ordinance since the beginning when it was passed in 2016. The Police Department thought that Diane was checking on this and Diane thought the Police Department was checking on it. This is just to ensure that their taxes are being paid. It is a State Statute that requires you to pay property tax on these vehicles.

K. Allen asked if this could be looked into and brought back to the next meeting.

City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.

Sales Tax Update: Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance – Susan said that as a reminder to the community that there is an important sales tax vote coming up on March 2nd. This is the renewal of a sales tax which is paying for the aquatic center and Buck Run improvements. This was voted on by the City Commission to place back on the ballot. 90% of those proceeds would go to street improvements and 10% to parks and community facilities. We will start putting information on the City’s Facebook page so citizens are educated.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

J. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing contracted non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 9:00 p.m. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and Interim City Manager.

K. Allen moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 9:00 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

J. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing contracted non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 9:10 p.m. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and Interim City Manager.

J. Jones moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 9:10 p.m. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

Adjournment:

J. Jones moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:12 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:12 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, MMC

City Clerk

FS City Commission Special Meeting Minutes of Jan. 19

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of January 19th, 2021 Special Meeting #3

 

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held January 19th, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, Randy Nichols and Lindsey Watts were present with Mayor Josh Jones presiding.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton.

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Executive Session – Discussion of non-elected personnel – J. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 5:58 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission.

K. Allen moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 5:58 p.m. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNMENT:

J. Jones moved to adjourn the special meeting at 5:58 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 5:58 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Shelter Insurance: New Digs For New Agent

Dillon Duffy from Facebook.

Dillon Duffy was working as a para-educator at Fort Scott Middle School when he was approached by Danny Brown, the school principal, and Barb Albright, the owner of H & H Agency, to join their team as an agency manager for H & H Agency. Brown was also working at H & H Agency.

 

“I wanted to get an engagement ring for Abi (now his wife) and needed more money,” he said.

 

He began selling insurance for H & H in 2016.

 

In 2018, Shelter Insurance personnel approached him about the opportunity to have his own insurance business.

 

“Working for myself was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” Duffy said.

 

In 2020, Duffy completed the Shelter Insurance program to become a  full-time agent.

 

Also in August 2020, Duffy moved his office from downtown to 1711 S. National, Suite C., just behind Dominos Pizza.

 

Shelter Insurance, 1711 S. National Avenue, Suite C. Submitted photo.

 

He provides all insurance services: auto, home, health, life,  and business.

 

“We take care of it, here at Shelter,” he said. “In addition, we do have Progressive, Bristol-West, and Dairyland Insurance. I sell for these companies.”

 

He likes the business because he is “people-oriented and I like to serve the community,” he said.

 

Duffy is an assistant basketball coach at Fort Scott Middle School.

 

He and his wife, Abigail, now have an almost two years old daughter, Emalynn.

Emalynn, Abigail, and Dillon Duffy. Submitted photos.

 

In addition, his family is a part of congregants at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

 

Hours of the business are 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. during basketball season he said. Outside of basketball season, the business hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

Duffy can be reached at 620-223-4110 or his cell at 417-214-4282.

 

After the COVID-19 Pandemic frees meetings up a bit, he will have a Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Open House at the new site, he said.

Also, when the pandemic ends, the conference room in his office will be available for public use, he said.

 

FSHS Swim Team Finshed Third in State Championship

Submitted photo.

Swimming is all about “good times”.

Last night Fort Scott High School Boys Swim Team took on the reigning 6A State Championship team at Blue Valley West High School.

With only three swimmers they finished the night in third place as a team beating out DeSoto by one point.

Out of the six events swam, the Tigers earned six personal best times for the season.

Oliver Witt broke the 2:00.00 mark with a 1:59.09 in the 200 Freestyle and a 4th place finish.  Oliver almost broke the 1:00.00 mark in the 100 Butterfly swimming a 1:00.14 and a 4th place finish.

Sam Mix took .58 seconds off his 50 Free for a personal best time of 24.67 and finished 8th out of 36 swimmers.  Sam also PR’d in the 100 Breast taking  almost 4 seconds off for a time of 1:20.60 finishing in 6th place overall.

Bobby Kemmerer swam his first State Qualifying time in the 50 Free with a time of 23.25 and a 4th place finish overall.  Bobby also PR’d in the 100 Free with a time of 53.09 and a 3rd place finish.

“To say I am proud of the boys is an understatement,” said Angie Kemmerer. “They have consistently dropped time and show the heart of a Tiger with their competitive spirits.  To have personal best times in every race demonstrates their drive and commitment to the only sport where a coach is always telling them not to breathe.   The Swimming Tigers are building a strong tradition, one stroke at a time.”
The FSHS Boys Swim team continues their season next week on Tuesday in Coffeyville and Thursday at Buhler.
Submitted by Angie Kemmerer

Celebrate Kansas Day

Kansas Tourism Invites Kansans To Celebrate Kansas Day  

 

TOPEKA – In honor of Kansas’ 160th birthday, on Kansas Day, Jan. 29, 2021, the Kansas Division of Tourism is inviting all Kansans near and far to celebrate with their own salute to the Sunflower State. This social media celebration is centered around the new Kansas Tourism marketing tagline, “To The Stars,” that honors the states motto – Ad Astra, Per Aspera.   

 

Participating is easy. This celebration is for all Kansans, Kansas destinations, and Kansas businesses.  

1.   Choose a photo or video of a beloved Kansas trait, person, historical figure, place, or anything that makes Kansas special. Be creative!  
2.   Create a post on your social media channels using “To The ________” (insert your word/person/place/trait here). Examples: “To The Beautiful!” or “To The Kaw River!” 
3.   Continue the post with more details about what you’re celebrating, what Kansas means to you, or why you chose your word. Example: “Today I’m celebrating the state with the best sunsets anywhere! #ToTheStarsKS” 
4.   Use #ToTheStarsKS with every post.  

“This celebration is a way for everyone to share in a toast to our state on its 160th birthday,” said Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Director of Tourism. “Kansas is full of rich history, unique destinations, and beautiful wildlife and scenery. The ‘To The Stars’8 format allows flexibility and creativity in sharing what makes Kansas special to each individual.”  

Participants are encouraged to share their photos and videos on the social media channels of their choice with the hashtag #ToTheStarsKS. More details and examples of posts can be found at https://tothestarsks.com/resources 

Also, in honor of Kansas Day, the Kansas Tourism Division will release a new video celebrating the spirit of Kansas and featuring snapshots of what makes the state so distinctive. That video can be viewed on travelks.com and on Kansas Tourism’s social media channels, beginning Jan. 29, 2021.

“The new video and social media celebrations are a way for all of us to honor the history and beauty of our state during a time we can’t be together in person,” Jobe said. “Virtual celebrations mean anyone can participate and celebrate Kansas Day and we hope they do.” 

Kansas Tourism launched the new tourism tagline, “To The Stars,” in June 2020 as a tribute to the state’s motto, Ad Astra Per Aspera, and the fortitude that forged the state. 

To plan your Kansas getaway, visit TravelKS.com. Shoppers can find gear featuring “To The Stars” and other Kansas designs at https://kansastourism.merchtable.com/ 

Kansas Tourism is a division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism.   
 

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The Mission of the Kansas Tourism Division is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities.