Common Ground Coffee Co. presents the students of Saint Martin’s Academy, 1950 Indian Road, this Friday. The concert will be a celebration of St. Patrick’s Day featuring vocal solos, duets, and ensemble numbers. The music department is under the direction of Dave Agee and Daniel Kerr.
The one-hour concert begins at 7 p.m. at 12 E. Wall Street. The show is free and open to the public. Bring a friend and join us for an enjoyable evening of young and lively music!
ROLL CALL:
___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Bradley Stewart
Public Hearing for Citywide trash service –
Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program, Matt Quick –
CITIZENS REQUESTS
FINANCIAL REPORT
Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports
APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
Grass seed around public restroom
Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan
Clerk Report: Sally Johnson
Chamber of Commerce Job Fair 2023
2023-2024 Insurance Renewal Quote
Councilman Ervin –
Councilwoman Esslinger –
Councilman Hartman –
Councilwoman Kelly –
Councilman Stewart–
Mayor Jurgensen –
School Pond Project –
Placemaking Project –
American Rescue Plan Act update–
KMGA/MMGA Prepay project –
Attachments:
Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas in Fort Scott is making plans to move from the former Mercy Hospital building at 401 Woodland Hills, to the former Price Chopper building at 2322 S. Main during the weekend of April 14.
“It’s going to be a beautiful facility,” said CHC’s Director of Communication and Marketing Robert Poole. “And we have a great crew.”
“The new 43,000-square foot plus facility provides more room to offer more services,” said Baily Davis, CHC/SEK Fort Scott Practice Manager. “And, for the first time, walk-in care, primary care, and our pharmacy will all be in one easy-to-find location with more convenient parking,” she said.
“The move is being coordinated to minimize interruptions of patient care and is being staged in three phases,” according to information from Poole.
On Friday April 14, the Woodland Hills clinic will close at 1 PM.
Apothecare Pharmacy at Woodland Hills will follow, and be closed Saturday, April 15 as staff prepare.
On Sunday, April 16, CHC/SEK Walk-In Care on National Street will close at 1 PM as they relocate to the new facility.
All services will be re-open on Monday, April 17 at 2322 S. Main St. including primary care, walk-in care, behavioral health care, pharmacy and specialty services, which will all be in one location from that point on.
Hours of operation at the new site:
Primary Care is 8 AM-6 PM- Monday through Thursday, and 8 AM-5 PM Friday.
Walk-In Care is from 7 AM- 7 PM, Monday-Sunday
Apothecare Pharmacy 7 AM- 7 PM, Monday-Sunday
“Many of the CHC/SEK staff are your friends and neighbors in the community,” according to the information provided by Poole. “101 of the 124 of the Fort Scott clinic employees live in Fort Scott or Bourbon County. The health center believes in investing in its employees with good jobs, education, growth opportunities and progressive benefits. The starting entry-level wage at CHC/SEK begins at $15 per hour, more than twice the federal minimum wage.”
Part two of this story will be published next week, detailing the new services.
Mercy Building: Other Tenants
Ascension Via Christi Emergency Department
The emergency room will continue services to the county in the same location on the south side of the Mercy building.
“The move will not affect our operations and the Ascension Via Christi Emergency Department in Fort Scott will continue to provide care as normal,” according to AVC Marketing and Communications Specialist Reagan Rosenhamer.
Legacy Health
The following is from Troy Schell, chairman of the Legacy Health Foundation, Glendora, CA. when asked for an update on the foundation plans since receiving ownership of the Mercy Hospital building on Nov. 17, 2022.
“Legacy Health has devoted significant efforts to collaborating with both Ascension and USD 234 in order to develop and sustain crucial services within the community,” Schell said. “Furthermore, our organization is actively pursuing the establishment of new specialty clinics, including those specializing in cardiology and urology, in addition to partnering with Freeman Orthopedics to extend their established presence within the community.”
“As we move forward with our initiative, we eagerly anticipate engaging with key figures in the business and government sectors to ensure that the available resources are utilized optimally to provide the essential services required for the growth of the community and the region,” he said. “Additionally, we remain committed to supporting local non-profit organizations and community groups by providing necessary resources to support the most vulnerable individuals in the community.”
To learn more:
Bourbon County Takes Ownership of Former Mercy Hospital Building
View the Bourbon County/ Legacy Health Foundation Agreement
I Am Rehab, Diamonds in the Rough
Because I Am Rehab, a physical therapy business and gym, and Diamonds in the Rough Beauty Salon are not affiliated with CHC, they will remain in the lower level of the former Mercy Hospital and continue business as usual, according to a spokesman for I Am Rehab.
Bourbon County Regional Economic Development Inc.
Bourbon County REDI moved its office in February from the Landmark Bank building to the administration wing of the former Mercy Hospital on the north side of the building, in Suite 100.
The banking hours and holidays did not fit the needs of the staff of REDI, according to Rob Harrington, Director, although “We loved being at that location.”
“I am now able to be in the office early and stay late, and there is a conference room available,” Harrington said.
REDI employees are Suzette Torres, marketing and program assistant; Emily Wiebolt, grant manager and Tayton Majors, intern from Lead For America.
The Fort Scott Tourism Department, which was housed with REDI at the bank office, is now at city hall, Harrington said.
The Regular Council Meeting on February 14, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:03PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, and Amber Kelly. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Mary Pemberton, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program, Matt Quick – did not show up for meeting.
Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Mr George was unable to attend. Project is completed. Water was shut off and lines drained in December. Water will be turned back on and they will be unlocked next week. Clerk Johnson is working on getting sign and thank you notes completed.
CITIZENS REQUEST
Mary Pemberton, on behalf of Uniontown Ruritan Club – club is planning family fun activities in the park for the summer – movies, music, etc. They will notify City Clerk of dates for the newsletter/webpage. It was suggested to contact Safe Valley Outfitters for assistance with the activities.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger present the January 2023 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $343,551.97, Receipts $71,352.08, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $38,977.45, Checking Account Closing Balance $372,900.60. Bank Statement Balance $391,883.92, including Checking Account Interest of $77.34, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $18,983.32, Reconciled Balance $372,900.60. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,165.36, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,793.26, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,442.36, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $459,301.58. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $77.34, and Utility CDs $0 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $77.34. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of January 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. January Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00; for Total Transfers of $3,026.00. Net Income for the month of January $29,348.63, Year-to-Date Net Income $29,348.63. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $15,262.38 (9.7%), Expenditures $23,271.00 (10.3%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $2,932.49 (8%), Expenditures $1,402.00 (3.4%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $9,698.93 (7.9%), Expenditures $8,508.83 (5.3%); General Fund YTD Revenue $38,368.30 (25.6%), Expenditures $8,821.62 (4.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,063.98 (27.7%), Expenditures $0 (0%). The February 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $71,778.12 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
City Superintendent Rich reported KCC Inspection of gas system in January went well, no violations noted.
KRWA Annual Conference, March 28-30, Wichita, $180 plus lodging, meals
Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to allow Bobby Rich to attend KRWA Annual Conference, March 28—30, 2023, in Wichita
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported a dumpster is again at Smith Estate. Any progress will depend on the weather.
Safe Valley Outfitters has indicated that they would like to give back to the community. It was suggested to have Ruritan reach out to them to help with the summer fun nights planned.
Ongoing noise complaint issue in 400 block of Sherman Street was further investigated. Surrounding neighbors were interviewed with no complaints about the loud bass.
Complaints have been received regarding 404 Washington Street; another letter will be sent requesting a timeline for renovation.
A complaint was also noted regarding trailer full of debris in front of house at 202 Fourth Street-a letter will be sent to owner.
Clerk Johnson presented the 2023-2024 Projected Gas Supply Requirements.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to approve the 2023-2024 Projected Gas Supply Requirements as presented
KRWA voting delegate needs appointed, usually Bobby Rich because he attends the conference.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to appoint Bobby Rich as KRWA voting delegate and Brad Stewart as alternate delegate
A workshop on benefit-cost analysis will be presented April 19-20 in Manhattan by Kansas Department of Agriculture, Cooperating Technical Partnership with FEMA.
Motion by Esslinger, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to send Sally Johnson to the BCA Workshop in Manhattan, April 19-20
There was a request for a rabies clinic again this year.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to host a rabies clinic in March or April, preferably in March but whatever date vet has available
City Clerks and Municipal Finance Officers Association Spring Conference is March 22-24 in Manhattan. Clerk Johnson would prefer not going this year.
OJA Court Clerks Conference is March 3, Wichita. OJA will reimburse attendee, not the city.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to allow Sally Johnson to attend OJA Court Clerks Conference, March 3, Wichita
Kansas Government Finance Officers Association – Clerk Johnson would like to join membership and attend their Spring Symposium, March 30, Wichita. She would prefer to attend this instead of CCMFOA.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to join KSGFOA and attend Spring Symposium, March 30, Wichita
Utility Hearings date this month is February 22. Clerk Johnson would like to change date for this month only to last day of the month, February 28. Hearing officers for February are Brad Stewart and Jess Ervin.
Lead service line inventory surveys were sent out with January billings, several have been returned.
Homestead Websites is raising their fee another $2.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – nothing
Councilman Stewart – absent
Mayor Jurgensen – nothing
OLD BUSINESS
Citywide Trash Service – the next public hearing will be March 14. Council should select a vendor for the service at the hearing. Notice of hearing has been sent to vendors and been published in the paper.
Spring citywide cleanup was discussed.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to schedule a spring citywide cleanup for May 1-5 with three dumpsters, picked up when filled
School Pond Project – Don George, KDWPT, wants to inspect and review paperwork. Clerk Johnson will contact Bourbon County Public Works for cost of rock and hauling for their in-kind portion of the cost of the project.
Placemaking Project – Healthy Bourbon County Action Team is conducting their community perception survey around our placemaking project. Survey can be accessed online through their website or facebook page. Survey closes February 28.
American Rescue Plan Act update – Materials have been delivered and contractor plans to begin February 20 when we are closed for Presidents’ Day. Clerk Johnson will unlock for them.
KMGA/MMGA Prepay project – council is perceptive to participating at 30% load. Clerk Johnson will send contracts/agreements to attorney for review and contact KMGA for deadline for participating.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to participate in the KMGA/MMGA Prepay Project at 30% load contingent upon attorney approval of contract/agreements
NEW BUSINESS
City Attorney – Bob Johnson, Johnson-Schowengerdt, has been our attorney of records for several years. He has been assigning our work to attorney Jacob Manbeck. Jacob Manbeck was appointed as prosecutor for municipal court in May 2022. Mr Manbeck has left Johnson-Schowengerdt and started his own firm. After discussion, Council directed Clerk to contact both attorneys to request quote of fee schedule for services, including prosecutor. Council will review fee schedules and determine attorney of record and prosecutor at next meeting.
Moved by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 8:26PM
Want to learn more about ancestors that have lived or died in our community?
For those who would like to learn more about their roots in Bourbon County, there is a place to start: the Old Fort Genealogy Society, located in the basement of Memorial Hall, Third and National Avenue.
Recently, the staff has started a Facebook page.
“We started at the end of February, the Old Fort Genealogy and History at Fort Scott, Kansas Facebook page,” Ann Rawlins, librarian at the society said.
“We wanted to post stories and and pictures and answer questions,” she said. “We wanted a site for genealogy questions. and have an internet presence.”
People are invited to post pictures, stories, or ask questions on the Facebook page.
The Old Fort Genealogical Society researches people’s ancestors who have lived in Bourbon County.
They can be reached at 620.223.3300 or the website is ksgenweb/society/ft.scott.
Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The following is a recent humorous post on the Facebook page.
Local businessman, Josh Jones, has started a non-profit foundation that will provide funding for projects in the community.
“This community has meant a lot to me and my family and we wanted to find a way to give back,” Jones said. “We felt like this was a good way to make a long term impact.”
“The purpose of Advance Bourbon County is to find ways to make our community better through charitable contributions and work,” Jones said.
“I have asked Bailey Lyons and Katie Hueston to come on board and help me with this adventure, as they have been just amazing and have put so much time, effort, and passion into the splash pad and sensory park project,” he said.
The splash pad and sensory park will be put in place in 2023, following the fundraising efforts of Jones, Lyons and Hueston and others.
“My goal is a core of us handle the majority of day to day things and we work with other groups/people on different projects as a team, as the need arises,” he said. “We really want this to be a grass roots foundation that involves all.”
In the past few months, this group has bought a comedy show and an illusionist to town to help fund the splash pad/sensory park that will be located in the downtown area of Fort Scott.
They have many events they are collaborating with others in town to make happen for 2023.
The following are those projects:
On April 1, the group is helping to organize the Blue Collar Awards, that will be honoring the manual workers in the community.
“We are working together with Aaron Judy on this,” Jones said.
On April 15, they are organizing the Greg Morton Comedy Show for the community, comedian Andrew Rose will be opening for Morton.
On June 9, they are working together with Cory Bryars and Brad Matkin to make a Live Band Karaoke happen.
On July 1, in collaboration with Bill Michaud, they are bringing the Game Show Road Show to the community.
On August 26, another comedian, Todd Royce, will be coming to town.
On November 18 in collaboration with Cory Bryars and Brad Matkin the Almost Kiss Tribute Band will be in town.
On December 1-2 there will be Christmas on the Bricks
There are working with another group, Elevate Fort Scott, which includes Diane Striler, Kirk Sharp, Cory Bryars, Lindsey Madison, and Brad Matkin.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a medical device designed to analyze the heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock to victims of sudden cardiac arrest, to restore the heart rhythm to normal, according to https://www.osha.gov/aed
For those interested in donating:
“They can follow and message us on Facebook at Advance Bourbon County 501C3,” he said. “They can bring donations by Bourbon County Cars (where Jones is the general sales manager), send donations through Venmo, or take donations to Citizens Bank in Fort Scott and deposit into our charity account”
West Bourbon Elementary School – Uniontown
Kindergarten Roundup Coming in March
A screening clinic for 2023-2024 kindergarten students has been scheduled for Monday, March 20 at West Bourbon Elementary. To be eligible for kindergarten, your child must be 5 years old on or before August 31, 2023.
Students who will be new to WBE will sign up for a 30 minute slot to be assessed on March 20. Please bring in your child’s birth certificate and immunization record. The agenda for the child will include kindergarten skills assessment, vision, hearing, speech, and checking health records.
Kindergarten children are required to have a physical exam within 12 months of beginning school and have all current immunizations. The Bourbon County Health Department will be onsite providing immunizations and physicals.
Due to the screenings, there will be no Kindergarten class on March 20th.
For the best testing environment for your child, we ask that you not bring brothers or sisters.
To set up a time for screening and assessment, please call the school at 620-756-4335 or visit https://tinyurl.com/WBEKindergartenRoundup.
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