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What’s Happening in Fort Scott Weekly Newsletter
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No Bourbon County Commission Meeting on Dec. 27
There will be no Bourbon County Commission meeting on Dec. 27.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports Dec. 21
Kansas 2021 Annual Summary of Vital Statistics Now Available
TOPEKA – Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has released the Kansas 2021 Annual Summary of Vital Statistics.
“The Kansas Annual Summary of Vital Statistics report contains information on births, deaths, marriages, divorces and more,” Kay Haug, State Registrar, said. “It is a valuable tool for public health program evaluation and community health assessment.”
Results from the report showed 31,637 Kansas resident deaths recorded in 2021, a decrease of 0.1 percent from the 31,667 deaths recorded in 2020. The 2021 death count remains higher than the 27,312 deaths recorded in 2019, largely due to the continuing Coronavirus 2019 pandemic. The Kansas age-adjusted death rate in 2021 (903.5 deaths per 100,000 standard U.S. 2000 population) was higher than in any other year in the last twenty (2002-2021).
Additional highlights from the Kansas 2021 Annual Summary include:
- Heart disease remains first among the leading causes of death for Kansas residents, and cancer the second.
- The number of live births to Kansas resident mothers in 2021 was 34,697, up one percent from 34,368 in 2010.
- Accidental deaths due to drugs rose from 432 in 2020 to 635 in 2021.
- The rate of 19.2 per 100,000 deaths by suicide matched that of 2018, it’s single highest in the past twenty years.
- 184 infant deaths occurred in 2021, was very close to the number seen in 2019.
- Death in Kansas was responsible for 245,414 years of potential life lost before age 75 in 2021.
Haug added vital records also are necessary for individuals to carry out day-to-day business such as obtaining passports, enrolling in schools, sports participation, starting new jobs, qualifying for subsidized housing, collecting life insurance benefits and transferring property.
State Agencies such as the Kansas Department of Children and Families, Disability and Aging Services, Department of Commerce and the Social Security Administration rely upon vital records, in addition to Kansas Department of Health and Environment in order to provide programming and services to promote health to Kansas citizens.
Vital statistics are compiled annually and released by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment each year during the last part of the year. The full vital statistics summary report is available for download here. The tables and charts contained in this report represent only a glimpse of the insight that can be gained from the data.
Additional data can be requested by calling (785)-296-8795 or visiting http://kic.kdheks.gov/.
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Hot Wok Restaurant Open on Christmas Day
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Governor Orders State Buildings Closed Due to Winter Storm
Governor Kelly Orders State Office Buildings Closed Thursday and Friday for State Employees in Shawnee County due to Winter Storm
TOPEKA – Due to safety concerns regarding the winter storm projected for the state on Thursday, December 22 and dangerously cold temperatures on Friday, December 23, Governor Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to be closed on Thursday, December 22 and Friday, December 23, 2022.
“Due to the potential for hazardous road conditions, precipitation, and dangerously cold temperatures, we are closing state office buildings in Shawnee County on Thursday and Friday,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Please exercise extreme caution if traveling for the holiday weekend, give road crews enough space to do their jobs safely, and stay safe and warm.”
The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, December 21st and remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. Friday, December 23rd. Ambient temperatures 6 a.m. on Thursday will be 4 degrees with wind chills hitting -20 to -30 degrees. Additionally, with wind guests up to 40-45 mph, blizzard-like conditions are expected. Travel through midday Friday will be hazardous.
This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction who work in offices located in Shawnee County. During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather. Remote work is not being required.
This declaration does not include employees in the Board of Regents, Regents Institutions, the Judicial Branch, nor the Legislative Branch of Government. Their designated representative will make a separate declaration for those employees if appropriate.
To ensure consistent leadership during potentially dangerous road conditions, Secretary Lorenz will remain in her current role as Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary until midnight on Saturday, December 24, 2022. Calvin Reed will assume his role as Acting Secretary at KDOT on Sunday, December 25, 2022.
Appointing authorities in offices located outside Shawnee County have the option to declare Inclement Weather for those counties.
Winter Storm and Wind Chill Watches In Effect
Winter Storm and Wind Chill Watches In Effect —
Confidence remains high that dangerous wind chills and winter precipitation will arrive Thursday, according the NOAA.GOV. Wind chills of -20 to -30 F and accumulating snowfall will create dangerous conditions for those outdoors.
NOAA latest information here:
www.weather.gov/sgf/dsspacket
“This is going to be a very cold deep freezing winter weather situation,” William Wallis, Bourbon County Emergency Management, said. “If you must travel please make sure you have a winter care survival kit plus extra blankets and several cell phones if you breakdown and get stranded.”
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U.S. Senator Jerry Moran’s Newsletter
Supporting Our Military Men and Women
The strength and preparedness of our military is a direct deterrent to our adversaries. Making certain our men and women in uniform have cutting-edge technology, an arsenal of advanced weapons and ample support for military families will determine the long-term success of our military. These provisions will also help overcome our military’s current recruiting crisis by acting as a way to attract and retain talented young men and women who desire to serve their country.
On Thursday night, the Senate passed the FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to give our troops the largest pay raise in 20 years, resupply our depleted weapons stock and make certain servicemembers have the equipment they need to complete their missions. As Russia continues its unjust war in Ukraine and China remains our foremost threat, it’s critical that Congress provides the resources necessary for our military to be combat-ready.
Wins for Kansas in the NDAA:
● Authorizes funding to support the construction of an unaccompanied enlisted barracks at Fort Riley.
● Authorizes funding for the construction of a microgrid at Fort Riley, increasing the resiliency of energy supply in the event of natural or man-made power outages.
● Allows for more veterans to lead Junior ROTC programs across the country. This reduces certain barriers for more programs to be stood up in Kansas, which is an underrepresented state by the Junior ROTC program.
The NDAA also includes many of my other priorities:
● Requires that certain military equipment, such as body armor and protective gear, be manufactured in the U.S by small businesses.
● Requires a report detailing the operational impact on the National Defense Strategy of Tactical Control Party specialists force structure in the Air National Guard prior to the divestment of any units.
● Requires the Secretary of Defense to report on current alternatives to burn pits and ongoing efforts to field additional technologies.
Gov. Kelly Releases Tax Cut Plan
Governor Kelly Releases Tax Cut Plan to Save Kansans More Than $500M Over Next Three Years
~~ Calls on Bipartisan Legislators to Join Her in ‘Axing Your Taxes’ ~~
ROELAND PARK – Governor Laura Kelly today released her three-part ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan to save Kansans more than $500 million over the next three years. The comprehensive plan delivers on major campaign promises, including a push to immediately ‘axe the tax’ on groceries and eliminate the state sales tax on diapers and feminine hygiene products; create an annual state sales tax holiday for school supplies; and cut taxes on social security for retirees.
“I’m pleased to introduce a plan that axes taxes for Kansas families and retirees in a way that keeps our state’s economy and budget strong,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By cutting taxes on groceries and diapers, school supplies, and social security, this plan will put money back in Kansans’ pockets and create real savings for those who need it most.”
Last spring, Governor Kelly signed the “Axe the Food Tax” bill to gradually eliminate the 6.5% state sales tax on groceries, which is one of the highest in the country, starting January 1, 2023. If passed, the first part of her ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan would supersede the gradual reduction and immediately zero-out the tax – as well as the state sales tax on other essentials like diapers and feminine hygiene products, which were not included in the 2022 bill. View the bill draft here.
The second part of the ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan would create a three-day zero percent sales tax holiday on school supplies, personal computers, instructional materials, and art supplies, every August. The holiday would provide relief to families and teachers gearing up for back to school and keep Kansas retailers competitive to surrounding states. View the bill draft here.
Right now, Kansans earning less than $75,000 annually do not pay state income tax on social security income. But once they earn a dollar more – including through investments and life insurance policies – the entirety of their social security income is subject to state income tax. The third part of Governor Kelly’s ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan would smooth out that cliff so no Kansan making under $100,000 pays full taxes on social security. View the bill draft here.
These tax cuts are possible through Governor Kelly’s fiscal responsibility and leadership during her first term as governor.
“I am calling on legislators of both parties to support these bills and provide practical financial relief to families and retirees across our great state,” she said.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports Dec. 20
Uniontown City Minutes of Dec. 13
Unapproved minutes
The Regular Council Meeting on December 13, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00PM by President of Council Ervin. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Joshua Bales and Jason Thompson-Green Environmental Services, Linda and Danny Nation-4 States Sanitation, Raymond “Skeet” George, Joe George, Mary Pemberton, City Attorney Jacob Manbeck, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Public Hearing for city trash service – Attorney Manbeck opened the hearing. There was discussion with the vendor representatives about services they can offer and current private residential rates. There were no comments from the citizens in attendance. Over the next three months the City will finalize the planning of the proposed trash service.
Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Mr George requested a recess for the Council to walk to the restroom to view progress.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to recess for 5 minutes to view the progress
Open meeting resumed at 7:26PM.
Mr George would like to have guttering put on the building, LACO will donate if there is a sign acknowledging the donation. A list of entities/individuals that donated time and service to the construction will be given to Clerk Johnson to send thank you notes. Clerk Johnson will research a sign for the building that acknowledges the building provided by Uniontown Ruritan and those who donated time/service to the project. Total cost of the facility is upwards of $50,000.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to allow signs acknowledging those responsible for the construction of the restroom building
Councilman Ervin asked to have the custodial job description amended to include the cleaning of the new restroom facilities.
CITIZENS REQUEST
None
Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1) in order to discuss performance on non-elected personnel, open meeting to resume at 7:30PM
Open meeting resumed at 7:30PM. Council presented bonuses to staff.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger present the November 2022 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $363,706.17, Receipts $37,281.81, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $33,573.47, Checking Account Closing Balance $354,638.51. Bank Statement Balance $356,257.28, including Checking Account Interest of $49.96, Outstanding Deposits $216.27, Outstanding Checks $1,835.04, Reconciled Balance $354,638.51. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,159.60, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,668.01, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,436.60, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $431,902.72. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $361.40, and Utility CDs $362.78 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $724.18. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of November 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. November Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00 and to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00 and to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500.00, Total Transfers of $12,776.00. Net Loss for the month of November $9,067.66, Year-to-Date Net Income $30,895.01. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $108,458.97 (102.9%), Expenditures $100,869.46 (77.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $32,090.30 (89.9%), Expenditures $32,458.78 (79.1%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $113,457.96 (81.3%), Expenditures $144,157.30 (58.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $140,825.06 (109.6%), Expenditures $133,508.49 (80.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $7,661.33 (111.8%), Expenditures $10,620.81 (99.9%). The December 2022 estimated payables, including end of year transfers, in the amount of $51,747.08 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Esslinger, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
- Minutes of November 7, 2022, Regular Council Meeting
- Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
City Superintendent Rich reported the KDHE inspected the wastewater and water systems.
Black Hills was here last week for leak survey, no leaks found.
He spoke to someone about the tree limbs overhanging on Second Street between Hill and Clay Streets. They were supposed to trim but haven’t. He will talk to them again.
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported Smith Estate demolition is about 80% complete.
There was a complaint about the possibility of someone living in a RV at 401 Sherman. A letter was sent and owner responded that no one is living in it, he is working on it at night. He will remove from the property in the near future. Clerk Johnson also reported on a noise complaint. She spoke with the person being complained about and has since been informed that the issue has been resolved.
Clerk Johnson and Councilman Ervin reported on the KMGA Prepay Gas Supply Project. After discussion, Council asked to have KMGA representative give a presentation with more details about the project. Clerk Johnson will contact them to set up a meeting. The December KMGA member update was discussed.
She reminded Council of upcoming League of Kansas Municipalities events and trainings.
Kansas Municipal Utilities has scheduled a Special Meeting of the KMU Membership to consider amendments to the bylaws to change status from 501(c)4, for profit, to 501(c)3, non-profit. A voting delegate had not been named since 2014.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to designate Amber Kelly as KMU voting delegate
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to designate Larry Jurgensen as KMU alternate delegate
This is the last year she and her husband will be decorating the park. She asked that the holiday decorations not be stored in the shop attic area any longer. It is too difficult to put them up and take them down from there. It was agreed they could be stored in the warehouse. It was suggested to put on the October 2023 agenda to solicit volunteers or set a workday to put the decorations out.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – thanked Frankie & Sally Johnson for their years of volunteering to decorate the park for Christmas.
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – absent
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – absent
OLD BUSINESS
Due to Mayor Jurgensen not in attendance,
Motion by Hartman, Second be Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to table discussion on the School Pond Project and Placemaking Project until January 2023 meeting.
American Rescue Plan Act update – three sealed bids for remodel of existing City Hall restrooms into one ADA compliant unisex restroom. Bid 1 – Terry Nading, $26,130.56; Bid 2 – French’s Plumbing, $26,575.00; Bid 3 – Karlskint & Marsh Const, $27,630.00.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to award to Terry Nading in the amount of $26,130.56
Clerk Johnson will call Nading in the morning to inform of the award. She will mail a formal notice of award and set up contract signing and notice to proceed before the first of the year.
NEW BUSINESS
CMB License Renewal for 2023 – Union Station
Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to approve 2023 CMB License for Union Station
Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(4), in order to discuss confidential financial information and include Sally Johnson, the open meeting to resume at 8:55PM
Open meeting resumed at 8:55PM with no action from session.
Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 8:57PM