On July 3, Bourbon County had two new positive COVID-19 cases today, Rebecca Johnson, Bourbon County Health Officer said.
One individual is symptomatic and the other is not.
One individual is a contact of a previously listed case and the other is not.
The investigations are complete.
Please use good judgment and protect yourself and those you’re in contact with.
Fort Scott Community College’s Chad Cross was given the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) Central Plains Region Coach of the Year award on June 3.
“Typically, they would present the award at the last college rodeo of the season, but due to the last rodeos being canceled, the elections and presentations were done online,” Cross said.
Rodeos were canceled because of the COVID 19 pandemic.
“The award is voted on by other coaches and athletes within the central plains region – over 16 member schools consisting of junior colleges and universities across Oklahoma and Kansas,” Cross said.
Cross has been head rodeo coach for 24 years at FSCC.
“We have 50-55 students each year, Cross said. “We have every college rodeo event.”
His duties and responsibilities include advising students, coaching or helping coach each event, feeding stock, and more, he said.
“Mainly continuing to make sure that our students are bettering themselves in life, school, and rodeo,” Cross said.
“The best part of coaching for me is seeing students succeed in what they are passionate about and getting to be a small part of that, whether that be in the arena or life,” he said.
Happy Fourth of July! Today, I sit on my deck, recovering from the Covid-19 virus, grateful that I live in a small town in the Midwest where friends and neighbors have gone out of their way to bring food and run errands. One lake neighbor dropped off chocolates and Twizzlers and flowers on our steps while another, on his drive from Kansas City to Tulsa, stopped to shop for items we needed, including a miracle-find of Clorox Wipes. Pam, my Utah friend, called her homeopathic guru and over-nighted me herbs and vitamins. Cards have arrived, and daily, friends and family members text, asking about my improvement. Many have phoned Dave, my husband, when it was difficult for me to maintain any breath control to speak.
I can’t say enough about Dave. He has been a saint. I was quarantined to the basement for 14 days. Dave made sure I had a thermometer and an oxygen reader, and even though I had no taste buds, I never was without a plate of fruit (a wonderful, stocked refrigerator treat from our Stilwell friends). When I progressed to being able to walk up the stairs and sit on the deck, he stayed a step behind me to steady my walk, brought me blankets and disinfected the area.
All of those were wonderful blessings, but what has touched me the most has been the out-pouring of prayers. Oh, how I relied on those prayers! When I would cough so hard I thought my lungs would explode, when I would chill and sweat and be incapable of taking a deep breath, when every bone ached, when I was so unsteady I could barely make it to the bathroom, I remembered the prayer-warriors who were lifting me up.
And so, today I sit on my deck, taking time to thank a mighty God who, it seems, is not calling me Home quite yet. He is calming my normally-frantic brain and causing me to concentrate on the beauty of life. I am blessed to watch as three fishermen, unaware they are in my eyesight through our deck rails, patiently row around our dock, casting their lines in various directions, enjoying the moment, even though no fish are biting. Two squirrels, playing “tag” for the past hour, have found my peanut feeder and leave not a shell for their friends. Birds, hidden in the cascade of overgrown tree limbs, noisily chatter while a butterfly comes near enough for me to touch it. A sweet visit.
But then 14 geese, determined to visit every morning and leave their “mess” on our newly-concreted sidewalk, show up to eat the grass seed we planted a few weeks ago. Dave makes the walk to our dock, waving frantically to run them off. With their ruffled feathers, they honk and jump into the lake, but it is only a matter of time before they return. Life, as we all know, is not perfect. But a small town in the Midwest comes close.
In a few days, the lake will be a place of celebration as jet-skis and boats and campers come for a day of recreation and entertainment. Fireworks will be shot from docks, music will blare, and we all will be reminded of those whose sacrifice proved just how “unfree” freedom really is. This year, we small-towners have much to be thankful for. Here, we don’t have to worry that our shopping areas will be taken over by misdirected rioters who set up camp and intimidate gutless, city officials into acquiescing to their desires. Here, parents of toddlers playing in the front yard or youngsters watching television don’t have to guard against flying bullets. Here, store owners don’t need to plywood the windows on their stores or protect against thieves helping themselves to whatever loot they can carry away. Here, the American flag is revered, not burned.
Let us count our blessings, and even though there always are reminders (like unwanted geese) that small-town life might not be perfect, I imagine that most of us wouldn’t live anywhere else.
Click below:
USDA Announces Flexibilities for Producers Filing ‘Notice of Loss’ for Failed, Prevented Planted Acres
WASHINGTON, D.C., July 2, 2020 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing additional flexibilities for producers to file on acres with failed crops or crops that were prevented from planting because of extreme weather events. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is adding these flexibilities for Notice of Loss on both insured and uninsured crops to enable Service Centers to best assist producers.
“With many program deadlines approaching, our Service Centers are working hard to accommodate as many producer appointments as possible,” said FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. “By providing flexibilities to our Notice of Loss policy, we can ensure we provide the best customer service.”
Filing for Prevented Planted Acres
For insured crops, producers who timely filed a prevented planted claim with the reinsurance company but filed a Notice of Loss (CCC-576) form after the deadline will be considered timely filed for FSA purposes. FSA can use data from the Risk Management Agency (RMA) for accepting the report of prevented planting with FSA. If the information is not available through RMA, the producer may also provide proper evidence to FSA that the prevented planted claim was timely filed with the reinsurance company.
For uninsured crops, producers may start a Notice of Loss (CCC-576) by calling their FSA county office, or they may print and complete the Notice of Loss (CCC576) form from home and send to their county office. For prevented planted acreage, Notice of Loss forms mailed to the FSA office must be postmarked by the final acreage reporting date in the county to be considered timely filed. For all prevented planted cases, the Report of Acreage (FSA-578) form and the completed and signed Notice of Loss (CCC-576) must be filed by the applicable acreage reporting date.
Filing for Failed Acres
For failed acreage of uninsured crops, the Notice of Loss (CCC-576) must be completed, signed and verified before the disposition of the crop.
When to File a ‘Notice of Loss’
A Notice of Loss cannot be filed for a crop before the final planting date, but it can be filed before completing the crop acreage report.
Producers who miss FSA’s July 15 acreage reporting deadline will not face a late filing fee if filed within a month of the deadline.
For questions, please contact your FSA county office. To locate your FSA county office at your Service Center, visit farmers.gov/service-center-locator.
All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including some that are open to visitors to conduct business in person by appointment only. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors may also be required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Field work will continue with appropriate social distancing. Our program delivery staff will be in the office, and they will be working with our producers in office, by phone and using online tools. More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
(Manhattan, Kansas), July 2, 2020 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds Kansas producers to complete crop acreage reports by the applicable deadline for their county. Acreage reporting dates vary by crop and by county. Contact your FSA county office for a list of acreage reporting deadlines by crop.
“To make sure you’re eligible for many USDA programs, you need to file an accurate crop acreage report by the applicable deadline,” said David Schemm, State Executive Director in Kansas. “Our FSA staff is standing by to help you with your acreage reports, including providing maps.”
The final acreage reporting date for Kansas is July 15 and includes spring-seeded small grains, feed grains, soybeans, and perennial forage.
Due to the pandemic, FSA has implemented acreage reporting flexibilities. FSA can work with producers to file timely acreage reports by phone, email, online tools and virtual meetings if needed.
The following exceptions apply to acreage reporting dates:
FSA is also providing additional flexibilities for producers to file on acres with failed crops or crops that were prevented from planting because of extreme weather events. For insured crops, producers who timely filed a prevented planted claim with the reinsurance company but filed a Notice of Loss (CCC-576) form after the deadline will be considered timely filed for FSA purposes. For uninsured crops, producers may start a Notice of Loss by calling their FSA county office.
Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) policy holders should note that the acreage reporting date for NAP-covered crops is the earlier of the dates listed above or 15 calendar days before grazing or harvesting of the crop begins.
When producers are working with FSA staff – either in-person or virtually – they can also take care of applications for other FSA programs, including the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. A CFAP Call Center is available for producers who would like additional one-on-one support with the CFAP application process. Please call 877-508-8364 to speak directly with a USDA employee ready to offer assistance. The CFAP Call Center can provide service to non-English speaking customers. Customers will select 1 for English and 2 to speak with a Spanish speaking employee. For other languages, customers select 1 and indicate their language to the Call Center staff.
Applications can also be submitted for the Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program Plus for 2018 and 2019 as well as other disaster assistance programs that may be able to assist producers at this time.
For questions, please call your FSA county office. To locate your local FSA office visit farmers.gov/service-center-locator.
All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including some that are open to visitors to conduct business in person by appointment only. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors may also be required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Field work will continue with appropriate social distancing. Our program delivery staff will be in the office, and they will be working with our producers in office, by phone and using online tools. More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
Executive Order #20-52 takes effect beginning 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 3, and will remain in place until rescinded or until the current statewide State of Disaster Emergency expires – whichever is earlier.
“The last few months have presented many new challenges for Kansans, and all of us want to return to our normal lives and routines,” Governor Kelly said. “Unfortunately, we have seen a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths across our state and our country. We must act.”
Viruses don’t stop at county lines. This order doesn’t change where you can go or what you can do. But wearing a mask is a simple and effective way to keep Kansans healthy and keep Kansas open for business.”
Under the order, Kansans are required to wear masks when inside any public space – including their workplace – or in situations where social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained. Guidance regarding specific places or situations in which masks are required is outlined within the order.
Kansans under five years of age, those with medical conditions, and others specifically outlined in the order are exempt from these requirements.
To view EO #20-52, click here.
Public Health Advisories for Kansas Lakes Due to Blue-Green Algae
Four warnings, seven watches in effect
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has issued its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae. The watch that had been issued for Kanopolis Reservoir in Ellsworth County has been lifted; it is no longer under advisory.
Warning
Cheney Lake, Reno/Kingman/Sedgwick Counties (upgraded to warning)
Gathering Pond at Milford Reservoir, Geary County
Peter Pan Pond, Lyon County
Marion Lake, Marion County
Watch
Mission Lake, Brown County
Lake Perry Zone C and Zone D, Jefferson County
Rock Garden Pond, Shawnee County
Washington County State Fishing Lake, Washington County
Lovewell Reservoir, Jewell County
Marion Reservoir, Marion County
Norton Lake (Sebelius), Norton County (new)
Warning Protocols
When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
Watch Protocols
A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.
During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.
Ensuring the health and safety of our FSCC students, faculty, staff, and community is my top priority. Requiring masks and social distancing is the most effective way to protect each other and help keep FSCC open for business. Beginning July 6, 2020, masks will be required for all individuals who are in a FSCC building, or when social distancing cannot be accomplished, at all FSCC locations. Please keep in mind we need to be respectful of the fact we have individuals who are vulnerable, and/or they have family members who are at grave risk, if they contract the virus.
The situation concerning the spread of the COVID-19 virus and how counties, states, school districts, and colleges will handle it, changes every day. We must remain flexible due to the evolving nature and scope of this public health emergency. Below are a few guidelines brought forth by our executive team as we plan to move forward with classes and complete opening of all FSCC locations.
COVID-19 Mitigation Return to Work Plan
1. Amended Start and End Date for Fall, 2020 Semester:
2. Face Masks and Social Distancing Required:
4. Illness:
5. Follow CDC Guidelines for Prevention:
6. Classroom/Lab/Common Area Sanitation:
7. Travel & Exposure Related Isolation/Quarantine:
8. Institutional Travel:
9. Teaching Methods:
This guidance is subject to change without notice.
Stay safe and healthy,
Alysia Johnston, FSCC President
CITY OF FORT SCOTT
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 16th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners K. Allen, P. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Mitchell presiding.
INVOCATION: There was no invocation given.
AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: There was no audience in attendance other than a very few City staff.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Kevin Allen moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission and City Attorney and there is no action anticipated. Pete Allen seconded. All voted aye.
RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:04 P.M.
RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 6:24 P.M.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Kevin Allen moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission and City Attorney and there is no action anticipated. Pete Allen seconded. All voted aye.
RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:26 P.M.
RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 6:46 P.M.
Jeff Deane, City Attorney, said that he has been directed by the City Commission to investigate certain matters and report back to them at a later date.
PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:
R. Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen and Pete Allen voted no. R. Nichols and L. Watts voted yes. J. Mitchell abstained. Consent Agenda did not pass. City Attorney said to take each item up and vote separately.
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 2nd, 2020 and amended minutes of May 19th, 2020.
L. Watts moved to approve the minutes of June 2nd, 2020 and the amended minutes of May 19th, 2020. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF JUNE 2ND, 2020 AND AMENDED MINUTES OF MAY 19TH, 2020.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1265-A totaling $258,206.58.
L. Watts moved to approve the Appropriation Ordinance 1265-1 totaling $258,206.58. R. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted yes. K. Allen and P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-2.
APPROVED APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE 1265-A TOTALING $258,206.58.
Fireworks Waiver – July 4th, 2020
K. Allen moved to approve the Fireworks Waiver on July 4th, 2020. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED FIREWORKS WAIVER – JULY 4TH, 2020.
Parade Permit – Burke Street Parade – July 4th, 2020
L. Watts moved to approve the Parade Permit for the Burke Street Parade on July 4th, 2020. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED PARADE PERMIT – BURKE STREET PARADE – JULY 4TH, 2020.
Request to Pay #5 – Schneider Electric – $55,016.60 – Energy Upgrade Project
L. Watts moved to approve Pay Request #5 for Schneider Electric for the Energy Upgrade Project in the amount of $55,016.60. R. Nichols seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.
approved Pay Request #5 for Schneider Electric for the Energy Upgrade Project in the amount of $55,016.60.
Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc. – $15,721.43 – River Intake Project
L. Watts moved to approve the HDR Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $15,721.43 for the River Intake Project – R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.
approved the HDR Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $15,721.43 for the River Intake Project.
Approval of 3RK – Certificate of Pay Request #6 – MIH Housing Grant – $16,573.26.
J. Mitchell moved to approve the Pay Request #6 – 3RK – MIH Housing Grant in the amount of $16,573.26. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen and P. Allen abstained. Motion carried 3-2.
approved the Pay Request #6 – 3RK – MIH Housing Grant in the amount of $16,573.26.
Approval to Pay – Lauber Municipal Law, LLC – May 2020 – $26,923.00
L. Watts moved to approve to pay Lauber Municipal Law, LLC in the amount of $26,923.00 for the month of May 2020. R. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen abstained, and Pete Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-1-1.
approved to pay Lauber Municipal Law, LLC in the amount of $26,923.00 for the month of May 2020.
L. Watts asked in the future if the Commission had questions to have the items in the consent agenda pulled out to move the meeting along faster.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
R. Nichols moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission, City Attorney and City Manager. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:57 P.M.
At 7:04 Commissioner K. Allen returned out of the Executive Session.
RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 7:17 P.M.
APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:
APPEARANCE: None
CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute
limit per citizen) – Comments will not be taken during this meeting. If you have a topic to discuss not listed on the agenda, please contact a City Commissioner or send a written request to [email protected].
Kevin Allen said that he had a citizen that sent him a comment.
City Attorney said that comments will not be taken during this meeting. This will be shared with all Commissioners by email.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
CONSIDERATION:
Approval of Appointment to Golf Course Advisory Board to replace the position held by Ken Holt – Diane Clay, City Clerk, informed the Board that there was an opening on the Golf Course Advisory Board to replace the position previously held by Ken Holt. There were two letters of interest received: Ben Cole and Jeff Collier. The Golf Course Advisory Board met and their recommendation is to appoint Ben Cole to this position.
Kevin Allen moved to approve Ben Cole to the Golf Course Advisory Board to replace the position held by Ken Holt. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED APPOINTMENT OF BEN COLE TO THE GOLF COURSE ADVISORY BOARD TO REPLACE THE POSITION PREVIOUSLY HELD BY KEN HOLT.
Approval of Notice of Award – Conrad Fire – Ladder Truck and Change Order #1 – Reduction in $24,739.67 – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, informed the Commission that the Notice of Award and Change Order #1 needs to be approved for the purchase of the ladder truck. There were changes made to the truck that reduced the total cost.
R. Nichols moved to approve the Notice of Award and Change Order #1 in the reduction of $24,739.67. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watt, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.
approveD the Notice of Award and Change Order #1 in the reduction of $24,739.67 for the purchase of the ladder fire truck with conrad fire.
Approval of CDBG-CV Grant 20-CV-022 contract and for Mayor to sign all pertinent documents – Allyson Turvey, Tourism/Community Development Manager, informed the Commission that the City was notified on June 4th, 2020 that we were awarded the 2020 CDBG-CV Grant in the amount of $132,000. She also gave them more information on the program. It will run similar to the previous CDBG grant from a couple of months ago. This is a grant program and not a loan program. Businesses within the City limits who have suffered COVID-19 related financial hardships will be eligible for this program. They do have to meet the 51% low to moderate (LMI) requirements to qualify. There cannot be any duplicate benefit efforts. A business will have to let us know what benefits they have received from the CARES Act, but cannot duplicate any benefits. Applicants can request up to two months of working capital. It will be on a first come, first serve basis. All applications have to be complete before they will be processed. This program is available to self-employed, owner/operators, and sole proprietors which the other program was not available to. A business could qualify up to $10,000 and will be based on the number of employees retained. All of these applications will be brought before the City Commission for final approval at their upcoming meetings. Applications will not be available until June 24th, 2020 at which time it will open. She asked approval for the Mayor to sign the contract documents for this grant.
R. Nichols moved to approve the agreement between the State of Kansas and the City of Fort Scott for Grant No. 20-CV-022 in the amount of $132,000. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.
approved the grant agreement between the State of Kansas and the City of Fort Scott for Grant No. 20-CV-022 in the amount of $132,000.
Approval of Administrative Agreement with Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission for CDBG-CV Grant – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, informed the Commission that this is the administration agreement with Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission to administer this new grant. This is in the amount of $6,600.00.
R. Nichols moved to approve the Administrative Agreement with S.E.K.R.P.C. for the CDBG-CV Grant in the amount of $6,600.00. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
approveD the Administrative Agreement with S.E.K.R.P.C. for the CDBG-CV Grant in the amount of $6,600.00.
Approval to pay retainage remaining to Ace Pipe Cleaning – $5,430.85 – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that in his opinion the payment to Ace Pipe Cleaning is owed to them.
Jeff Deane, City Attorney, said that in light of information he recently received, he would suggest that the City withhold payment at this time until all issues are resolved.
L. Watts moved to withhold payment to Ace Pipe Cleaning at this time until the City Attorney can research this further. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO WITHHOLD PAYMENT TO ACE PIPE CLEANING AT THIS TIME UNTIL THE CITY ATTORNEY CAN RESEARCH THIS FURTHER.
Approval of proposal from Midland GIS Solutions to inspect all 1,168 sewer manholes in the sanitary sewer system – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that this project is included in the Capital Outlay Program. This is for inspection of all the sewer manholes in the City and update the mapping. He does have a proposal from Midland GIS Solutions in the amount of $71,889.00. They are a great company to work with. They will survey, get coordinates, and document all manholes in our mapping system.
Michael gave them another price from the Joplin Toolbox, which is competitively bid, and their cost is over $87,000 and that does not include the mapping into our system.
R. Nichols moved to approve the proposal from Midland GIS Solutions to inspect all sewer manholes in the City of Fort Scott in the amount of $71,889.00 and update the City’s mapping system. J. Mitchell seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no.
Pete said based upon his statement from the last meeting, he would not approve any payment of money, so he voted no. He is impressed with the program.
approved the proposal from Midland GIS Solutions to inspect all sewer manholes in the City of the Fort Scott in the amount of $71,889.00 and update the City’s mapping system.
Consideration to Update City Specification 02605-2 D – Standards and Specifications for the City manual – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that this is referring to specifications for coating for the manholes. He copied off the specifications regarding the tar products. This is specific towards coating for the manholes. The tar products specified are old school and now there is a newer acrylic product. He said that he consulted with the engineer, who is the same engineer that put the specifications together, and he is good with this new product. The specifications could be updated to add for this product.
Michael asked if it was necessary to get Commission approval for an item like this. He feels this is an easy item that he can approve.
Pete said that anytime any of those specifications are changed, the Commission should be given the opportunity to approve.
Jeff Deane, City Attorney, asked for an Executive Session for 15 minutes to discuss attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
L. Watts moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission, City Attorney, City Manager, and Michael Mix. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.
RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:45 P.M.
RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 8:00 P.M.
City Attorney said that this item is open to either pass or table.
R. Nichols moved to table this item at this time until our City Engineer arrives for further discussion. L. Watts seconded.
Pete Allen said that he would like to state that as proposed, the ConSeal CS-55 is probably a good product, but a singular application that comes from the factory is not. He would move that we approve the CS-55 based upon the installation and instructions from ConSeal which requires multiple coats.
R. Nichols withdrew his motion to table this item.
Pete said that the intent is okay, but didn’t see any reference to the installation instructions, the thickness or multiple applications, and the City is going to have to put another at least one or two coats of CS-55 black to meet standards of installation instructions by ConSeal.
Pete made a motion to approve the CS-55 based upon the installation and instruction from ConSeal to put another two coats CS-55 black to meet the standards of installation instructions by ConSeal.
Randy asked that his motion be amended that the CS-55 product be used under those purposes or as judged appropriately by the engineer on the project.
Pete Allen said he did not approve the amendment on his motion.
L. Watts seconded Pete’s original motion. K. Allen, P. Allen, L. Watts voted aye. R. Nichols voted no. J. Mitchell abstained. Motion carried 3-1-1.
approved the CS-55 based upon the installation and instruction from ConSeal to put another two coats CS-55 black to meet the standards of installation instructions by ConSeal.
Consideration of Code of Ethics for the City of Fort Scott – Jeff Deane, City Attorney, informed the Commission that both of these items were discussed at the last meeting. He hasn’t received any comments from the Commissioners or staff on these rules. At this point, if there are no comments, he can put in a format to be considered for adoption.
K. Allen asked what we plan to accomplish with these new sets of rules and what will it cost. He doesn’t want to see it cost taxpayers more money.
Jeff Deane said that most of the costs have already been submitted. Many cities have these rules in place to help the meetings flow.
Kevin said that he hasn’t been offended by anything anyone has said, but he hates to see City money spent for something like this.
Pete asked who gave him the authority to make up these new guidelines in the first place.
Jeff said that it started when he was hired as City Attorney. He was concerned that there were no rules officially set in place.
Pete asked if these rules were in the League’s handbook.
Jeff said no and that most of these are from Kansas State Statutes. The League has a guide to procedures for Kansas Cities.
Lindsey said that there have been multiple meetings that we haven’t followed good ethics or procedures.
Jeff asked if changes need to be made to the Code of Ethics or Code of Procedures.
Kevin said he doesn’t want to change the way things are going right now. People are either going to act appropriately or not act appropriately. He said that he hopes they all act appropriately. He doesn’t see the reason to spend more money to go deeper into this. He said that the City Attorney decided to get this new code of ethics and asked again who directed him to do this.
Lindsey said that she had talked about it at previous meetings because of situations where if we had a code of ethics, it would have gave us a clear cut directive to move forward. She said that she is also trying to get more information from other cities.
City Manager said that he had heard concerns from other commissioners about ethics and our meetings and how they drag on and that we need a set of procedures.
Kevin said that he hadn’t heard anything about the City Attorney drafting up these rules and procedures. He asked if he had authority to call him and ask him questions and it costs the City $1,000 – does he have that option?
Jeff said as a City, he has been contracted to be the director of the City’s legal department. You have access to the City Attorney. He will answer legal questions, evaluate legal positions, advise on potential risk matters and exposure, and advise on issues as directed. He works with all City staff.
Kevin said that he usually tries another way and uses the League to save the City money.
Lindsey said that she has called other municipalities about their code of procedures and ethics and asked Jeff about what needed to be done. These rules are necessary, and we can benefit from them.
Randy Nichols said that he would like to move forward with the code of ethics and code of procedures for formal adoption.
Jeff said that he didn’t need a motion, just direction.
Consideration of Code of Procedures for the City of Fort Scott – Jeff Deane, City Attorney, informed the Commission that this was covered above.
COMMISSION/STAFF:
Director Updates: Allyson Turvey – Ally said that she wanted to update the Commission on Smart Growth America. This is an organization that works with rural communities and their goal is to help those communities create progress in a very strategic and fiscally responsible way. Each year they choose six rural communities to work with. The City was fortunate enough to be chosen in November of 2019. In February, the Smart Growth group came to Fort Scott. They were given a tour of the community, group interviews were done, and a community workshop was conducted with goals and vision for the future. A few weeks ago a Zoom meeting with Smart Growth was conducted, where they got to meet with the other five communities that were selected, as well as E.P.A., H.P.A., U.S.D.A., and many others and they gave them ideas about funding opportunities. Dr. Nichols updated them at their last meeting on this project. There are short term, mid term, and long term action items. This project will take us 15 to 20 years to get through. This isn’t something she or City staff can take on themselvest breathing document. This will progress our City forward and create a road map to the future.
Pete said that he was excited about this program and supports her efforts.
B. City Commission:
JoLynne Mitchell – JoLynne said that she wanted to go first this evening. In reference to the code of ethics and code of procedures, each one of us Commissioners have our own supporters and our own people who voted for us that have their own ideas of what they would like to see done in the City. It doesn’t make any of them right or wrong, but as a governing body we are supposed to be able to get along well enough to try and make a decision. It’s been brought to her attention that we don’t function well as a team together. These are some of the complaints she’s had from the people that did vote her in as well as the rest of them. She doesn’t know that a code of ethics or procedures on paper will fix that, but that’s the first logical step in making that happen. She doesn’t believe that we exercise respect or kindness to each other in any fashion most of the time, and would be surprised if we could make a decision on a dog tag together. That’s how people perceive us and that’s the kind of feedback that she gets. She has held her tongue as long as she can and she thinks that if we all try our best for the people that have voted for us, that it would be really nice if we would try to do that with one another even if we don’t all agree to make the best decisions. That doesn’t mean you can’t be respectful and don’t need to be showboating and that the citizens of Fort Scott and even Bourbon County want the best decisions for everyone that lives here. She thinks that some of the things that goes on and things that are said to one another are completely unnecessary, and having been on the Commission for seven years, she has not experienced this before. She would like for this to be a start for us to get along, but it will take everybody to do the same thing.
She told Ally that she did a great job on her presentation.
Lindsey Watts – Lindsey said that she failed to get something on the agenda for tonight. Last year she was a part of creating a 5K race and 1 mile fun walk on July 4th. This was a fundraiser for Wreaths Across America and was held in Gunn Park. She asked approval to close Gunn Park to vehicle traffic on July 4th, 2020 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. to hold this event.
Lindsey Watts made a motion to close Gunn Park on July 4th, 2020 to vehicle traffic from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for a 5K race and 1 mile fun walk as a fundraiser for Wreaths Across America. JoLynne Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.
approved to close Gunn Park on July 4th, 2020 to vehicle traffic from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for a 5K race and 1 mile fun walk as a fundraiser for Wreaths Across America.
She said that she is checking with other cities on their policies and procedures. What she found so far is in line with what Jeff is proposing.
Similar to JoLynne’s remarks, she thinks the code of ethics is needed. She doesn’t feel like there is any enforcing this in any kind of action other than a censure. Overall, there is a lot of instances where this is a lack of respect with the Commission and City employees, and also amongst the Commission. Some may think it is very mi-nute, but we can do better. We are supposed to be a respectful governing body, and we can do better by respecting each other’s opinions. She thinks she may have made some Commissioners mad by questioning items. Her goal is to do the best for the City.
Kevin Allen – Kevin said that there’s been a lot of talk about disrespect and things of that nature. He doesn’t know if they’re pointing at him or who, and he doesn’t feel like he has disrespected anybody. He’s been very professional and asked questions when they needed asked. He heard the word showboating and he hopes that isn’t directed at him.
JoLynne said she wasn’t directing anything to any specific person.
Kevin said that he doesn’t feel that he has stepped out of line. He feels like things are going good. He said that this is a different Commission. He has seen Commissioners that got along too good. When there are a lot of mixed up votes, it intrigues him. They all want what is best for Fort Scott. They all come from different parts of Fort Scott and come from different walks of life.
Kevin said that he talked to Tim McKenney. Tim is in charge of Fort Scott TV. He does get feedback from people that find it hard to get on the computer. Fort Scott TV is on the local channel. He gave him a sheet notifying him that our meetings could be live on Fort Scott TV for $50.00 a month. The City would need to provide him with our broadband width and what kind of equipment we have. He asked if he needed to make a motion to move forward with this.
City Manager said that he will check with Tim McKenney and see what we need to do to move it forward. If there is a contract to sign, he will bring this back to the next meeting.
Jeff Deane said that we need to make sure the meetings would be archived.
Kevin said that his one last item is that he was adamant last week about getting the City meetings back open. Everything seems to be back open. The Chamber coffees are meeting again, and no one seems to be concerned. He asked about when the next open meeting would be and was told it would be in July. He asked for a special meeting to open this meeting and could not get a quorum. We could not get along. He said that he called Becky Johnson, the Public Health Officer, and she said there are no restrictions – only recommendations of 45 people right now. He would have liked to have seen this meeting open and gotten together to discuss this. He said that Pittsburg, Iola, and Bourbon County are all open. This would have been a great time to get along and work together.
Randy Nichols – Randy said that in relation to COVID, it is not dead. There is an increase in all counties around us. We are much better off to give it another week or two to see where it evolves. We would have been much closer together and could not have socially distanced. If COVID becomes more aggressive, he is concerned with the pool opening and the 4th of July events. He asked the public to be sure and follow the recommendations.
Pete Allen – Pete asked Jeff Deane after the last executive session at the last meeting, if there had been any progress made on that.
Jeff said that we will discuss the response to the Attorney General’s office shortly. This is due tomorrow. He has done additional research on this item and will have it for him at the next meeting.
He asked about the vouchers for the residents on Andrick Street.
City Manager said he could respond to that under his time.
C. City Attorney: Mr. Deane asked for an Executive Session for the purpose of discussing the City’s official reply to the Attorney General’s office on a Kansas Open Meetings complaint. He requested 10 minutes and include the City Commission and City Attorney.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
L. Watts moved to recess into Executive Session for 10 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission and City Attorney. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.
RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:10 P.M.
RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 9:20 P.M.
D. City Manager:
Marmaton Massacre – Dave informed the Commission that Frank Halsey is working on having the Marmaton Massacre on July 11th and 12th. He will be at our next meeting. He will be following all health requirements needed for this event.
Golf Course Advisory Board – Dave said that this board was approached by a person who has purchased some property by Hole #13 who is wanting to build some houses. There is a line of trees that need to be removed. There is a covenant in place that will need to go before the Planning Commission. They have talked to Doug Guns, Golf Course Superintendent, and he is in approval of the tree removal. The board supported the removal of the trees. This would help our course be better also.
Vouchers – 500 block Andrick – Dave said that this has been looked at very thoroughly. Susan has researched this and the City feels strongly not to offer a utility forgiveness on this rebate. City Staff has come up with a gift card in the amount of $250.00 for the Aquatic Center, Buck Run Community Center rentals/fitness, Woodland Hills Golf Course, dog permits, boat permits, Gunn Park shelter rental/camping, and Memorial Hall rental. The other recommendation is to apply a credit to one of the following utilities: Sewer charges and Stormwater charges. The recommendation is for the City services.
Jeff Deane said that free use of water is prohibited and illegal to offer. He said that the sewer and stormwater charges are a gray area and could leave us open to an allegation of some problem.
R. Nichols moved to authorize the vouchers in the amount of $250.00 to the four addresses to the City amenities and follow the City staff’s recommendation. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO AUTHORIZE A VOUCHER (GIFT CARD) IN THE AMOUNT OF $250.00 TO THE FOUR RESIDENTS IN THE 500 BLOCK OF ANDRICK FOR THE CITY AMENITIES.
ADJOURNMENT:
R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:22 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:22 P.M.
The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on July 7th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.
RECORDED BY:
DIANE K. CLAY
CITY CLERK
AGENDA
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
FORT SCOTT CITY HALL
COMMISSION ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN
JULY 7, 2020
6:00 P.M.
I. ROLL CALL:
K. ALLEN P. ALLEN NICHOLS WATTS MITCHELL
II. FLAG SALUTE:
III. INVOCATION: Pastor
IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Recognition of Payden Blythe, Police Officer
Introduction of Nate Stansberry, City Engineer
V. CONSENT AGENDA:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 16th, 2020, special meeting of June 24th, 2020 and June 30th, 2020.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1266-A totaling $804,125.90.
Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – March port-a-pottie fees – $2,153.00; April $1,911.00; and May $2,153.00 – Totaling $6,217.00.
Request to Pay – Insco Industries – $67,937.35 – Clarifier Painting Project – Water Plant
Request to Pay – Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission – $4,000.00 – Fire Truck Grant
May financials
VI. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:
APPEARANCE: Vanessa Poyner – Junior/Senior Prom – Saturday, July 25th, 2020 – Request for Street Closures: West Oak Street from Judson to National for Walk-In event. Request for parking lot behind Brewhaus Brewery for valet parking. Time requested: 2:00 p.m. to midnight – Waivers will be signed for all attendees and social distancing will be enforced.
Frank Halsey – Marmaton Massacre Event
Terry Sercer – 2019 Audit
B. CITIZEN COMMENTS: (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute limit per citizen)
PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:
VII. CONSIDERATION:
Consideration of Change Order #10 – River Intake Project – Increase of $24,950.00
Consideration to remove some of the tree line near Hole #13 at Woodland Hills Golf Course
Consideration to purchase Cushman Utility Cart for Golf Course and sign a four year lease for 30 gas 2020 golf carts from KGT
VIII. COMMENTS:
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE
SESSION FOR ________________________________ IN ORDER TO
(see below justification)
DISCUSS ______________________________________. THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE ___________ MINUTES AND THE OPEN
MEETING TO RESUME AT ________________.
Justifications for Executive Sessions:
Personnel matters of non-elected personnel
Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative or representatives of the body or agency
Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships
Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property
X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL
Kansas Sees Substantial Gains in Total Tax Collections Over Projections for June and Close of FY 2020
Tax collections down less than 5.0% compared to June FY 2019 and down less than 6.0% from close of last fiscal year
TOPEKA –The State of Kansas saw a better-than-predicted close to Fiscal Year 2020. In June, the state’s total tax collections were up by $135.6 million or 22.3% more than estimated with $744.4 million collected. Compared to the same month last fiscal year, June tax collections were down by 4.8%. For FY 2020, total tax collections were up by $163.7 million or 2.4% more than estimated with collections of $7.0 billion; a 5.7% decrease from last year.
“Kansans have faced many challenges since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak – emotionally, physically, and financially,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While these numbers are encouraging, we must continue to make decisions that will keep our state on sound economic footing as we enter the next fiscal year.”
The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic began to be seen in April as the state was entering its fourth quarter. In addition, tax extensions were announced in March which moves money from FY 2020 to the next fiscal year. Approximately 300,000 individual income tax returns are still to be filed and paid by the July 15, 2020 deadline.
Individual income taxes were 13.2% or $41.1 million more than projected with $353.1 million collected. Those numbers are down 9.0% compared to the same month last year. Corporate income tax collections in June were $54.7 million; $33.7 million or 160.4% more than projected. These collections are down 19.4% compared to June of last fiscal year.
Retail sales and compensating use tax collections were both more than projected for the month and more than June of last fiscal year. Retail sales tax collections in June were $203.0 million; 21.5% or $36.0 million more than estimated. That’s an increase of 1.9% over last June. Compensating use taxes were $43.4 million; $10.4 million or 31.6% more than projected and an increase of 6.5% over last June. For FY 2020, retail sales tax collections performed 2.3% higher than expected with $2.4 billion collected; an increase of 0.7% over last fiscal year. Compensating use taxes for the fiscal year also performed 4.1% higher than expected with $479.1 million collected; a 10.9% increase from FY 2019.
