Bourbon County

Federal Lawsuit Alleging Retaliation, Discrimination, and FMLA Violations

Shane Walker, who worked for the county for 21 years, claims he was fired while on medical leave in retaliation for his wife’s discrimination complaints — and that a commissioner later told someone as much.

Jump to section:
Timeline of Filings
Background
Employment Contract
Protected Activity
The Layoff
Post-Layoff Retaliation
Legal Claims
EEOC & Right to Sue
About FMLA
Relief Sought
Court Documents
Case name: Shane Walker v. Board of County Commissioners of Bourbon County, Kansas, et al.
Case number: 26-CV-01057-DDC-ADM
Court: U.S. District Court, District of Kansas
Trial location: Kansas City, Kansas
Plaintiff’s attorney: Gaye B. Tibbets, Hite, Fanning & Honeyman L.L.P., Wichita, KS
Jury trial: Requested

Shane Walker, who served as Bourbon County’s Chief Information Officer for several years before his July 2025 layoff, has filed a federal lawsuit against the county, three county commissioners, and an HR contractor. Walker alleges he was let go while on approved medical leave in retaliation for discrimination complaints he and his wife, County Clerk Susan Walker, had filed against the county. The suit was filed March 9, 2026 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas and raises ten separate legal claims including breach of contract, retaliation under federal civil rights law, First and Fourteenth Amendment violations, and violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Everything described in this article comes from Walker’s complaint and the documents attached to it. These are allegations — none have been proven in court. The county and the individual defendants named in the suit have not yet filed their responses.

Timeline of Court Filings

  • March 9, 2026
    Original Complaint filed — Walker files his initial 21-page complaint in U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.
    Document 1, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Civil Cover Sheet filed — Standardized JS 44 form establishes the case docket. Lists primary cause of action as 42 U.S.C. § 1983 with a brief description of “Breach of contract.” Checks boxes for Family and Medical Leave Act (§751) and Civil Rights (§440).
    Document 2, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Designation of Place of Trial — Walker initially designates Wichita, Kansas as the trial location.
    Document 3, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Amended Designation of Place of Trial — Walker amends the trial location to Kansas City, Kansas.
    Document 4, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Request for Jury Trial — Walker requests a trial by jury on all claims triable to a jury.
    Document 5, p.1
  • March 10, 2026
    Amended Complaint and Employment Agreement Exhibit filed — Walker files a 21-page Amended Complaint (Document 6) with an attached Exhibit A, his June 7, 2022 employment contract (Document 6-1).
    Document 6, p.1 | Document 6-1, p.1

Background: Walker’s Employment History

Shane Walker, 56, started working for Bourbon County on December 15, 2005 and, according to the complaint, spent 21 years there without a single disciplinary or performance issue. (Amended Complaint [AC], ¶¶1, 9) None of the positions he held were policymaking roles. (AC ¶10) In late 2024 he was also appointed Deputy Register of Deeds — without any additional pay — to fill in for the elected Register of Deeds when she was unavailable. (AC ¶11)

Walker was laid off on July 9, 2025, when his salary was $88,616.84. (AC ¶12) He was re-hired by the elected Register of Deeds on November 17, 2025 at $16 per hour for archiving work — a position of at least 30 hours per week. (AC ¶64)

The Employment Contract

In 2022, Walker served as the county’s Chief Information Officer (CIO) at an annual salary of $82,617.60. (AC ¶14) On June 7, 2022, he and the county entered into a formal written employment contract. (AC ¶15; Employment Agreement, p.1) The contract included several key provisions:

  • Vacation: 28 days of paid vacation per year (carry-over permitted) plus 20 days at the beginning of each year to be used by December of that year. (AC ¶15a; Employment Agreement ¶7)
  • Term and auto-renewal: The agreement ran from May 1, 2022 through December 1, 2025, and renewed automatically for one-year periods unless either party gave the other 45 days written notice of termination prior to expiration. (AC ¶15b; Employment Agreement ¶8)
  • Severance: If Walker were terminated before expiration for reasons other than “any unethical or improper act involving personal gain,” the county agreed to pay 60 days aggregate salary plus accumulated vacation and sick leave. The complaint identifies this amount as $20,448. (AC ¶15c; Employment Agreement ¶9A)

The complaint alleges that in January 2023, the county passed a resolution claiming to “negate” or “cancel” all employee contracts — but that it never gave Walker the required 45-day written notice of termination. (AC ¶17) The complaint includes an excerpt from the minutes of the county’s January 24, 2023 meeting in which a county official explains the resolution. (AC ¶18)

The complaint states the county did pay some vacation through January 2023, but that the rest of the contract promises — including the 60-day severance — were never paid. (AC ¶19) On August 22, 2025, Walker’s attorney sent a written demand for the contractual damages and unpaid vacation and sick leave. The county declined to respond. (AC ¶24)

Editorial note: During his July 2025 layoff conversation, the complaint alleges that Dr. Cohen told Walker his contract would be paid and that his termination “had nothing to do with his performance,” describing it as “professional.” (AC ¶57) The complaint also alleges that another county employee with a similar contract gave the required 45-day notice when he resigned, and the county gave him “a gift” of cash at his resignation. (AC ¶81)

Protected Activity: Discrimination Complaints and Advocacy

Susan Walker and her complaints

Shane Walker has been married to Susan Walker since May 19, 2023. Susan Walker currently serves as the elected Bourbon County Clerk and previously served as the county’s Chief Financial Officer. The complaint notes all defendants were aware of the marriage. (AC ¶25)

In September 2024, Susan Walker filed an administrative complaint with the KHRC alleging gender and age discrimination and retaliation in the terms and conditions of her employment. She specifically complained that then-commissioners Harris and Beth were rude and dismissive to her and other female employees, that the county would not let her transfer to another position, that her work was being scrutinized more closely than male employees, and that she was being excluded from work-related conversations while having her employment threatened. (AC ¶37)

In February 2025, Susan Walker sued the county in state court for breach of her written employment contract, which was similar to her husband’s. (AC ¶39) When the county failed to respond to the properly served summons, a judge entered a default judgment of $199,527.04 against the county on May 5, 2025. (AC ¶40) The default judgment was later set aside by agreement, with the county paying $8,000 in legal fees to Susan Walker’s attorney; the order setting it aside was not entered until September 2025. (AC ¶41) Susan Walker’s discrimination, retaliation, and breach of contract claims ultimately settled in 2026, before this federal lawsuit was filed. (AC ¶43)

The complaint also alleges that Commissioner Tran, during a public meeting in which Susan Walker was explaining a report, derisively said to her: “Oh, are we going to talk about your feelings again?” The complaint states no commissioner had ever made such a statement to a male county employee. (AC ¶38)

Shane Walker’s own advocacy

In the summer of 2024, Shane Walker wrote a letter to county commissioners “in support of my wife and all the other women in our organization,” complaining of Commissioners Beth’s and Harris’s “lack of respect for woman (sic) in positions of authority and even with taxpayers who come to our meetings who are not men.” He concluded that “the other very professional women of our organization deserve to be treated with the same respect as anyone else.” (AC ¶26) The complaint notes Walker wrote the letter as a private citizen, not as part of his job duties. (AC ¶28)

Walker says he also made his views known to each of the three commissioners named in the suit: he spoke with Beerbower when Beerbower joined the commission on January 13, 2025 (AC ¶31); with Milburn-Kee when she joined in April 2025 (AC ¶32); and with Tran before Tran took office. (AC ¶33)

Walker’s 2024 age discrimination complaint

On September 30, 2024, Walker filed a complaint with the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) alleging age discrimination and retaliation. The filing was prompted by what Walker says was different treatment compared to younger employees, and by statements commissioners Beth and Harris allegedly made during a 2024 executive session about wanting to fire Walker and replace him with a younger trainee. (AC ¶¶34–35) (Beth and Harris were commissioners at that time but are no longer on the commission and are not named as defendants in this lawsuit — the current defendants are Commissioners Milburn-Kee, Tran, and Beerbower, along with HR contractor Dr. Cohen.) Walker was not terminated in the ten months that followed that filing. (AC ¶36)

The Layoff

IT outsourcing and the lead-up to termination

Walker’s primary job duty was responsibility for the county’s IT services. (AC ¶44) During the week of June 13, 2025 — while Susan Walker’s default judgment was still pending — Commissioner Milburn-Kee suggested that the county’s network infrastructure have a “health check.” The commission hired an organization called Stronghold to perform the check. The complaint states no commissioner had previously mentioned hiring an outside agency for IT services. (AC ¶45)

Commissioner Milburn-Kee then insisted she be given server passwords in her role as commissioner. Walker and his coworker, Jimmy Kemmerer, refused to disclose the confidential information. (AC ¶46) A confrontation ensued and Kemmerer called police. The county fired Kemmerer for cause on July 2, 2025. (AC ¶47)

FMLA leave and termination

The complaint alleges that because of the discrimination and retaliation suffered by himself and his wife, Walker’s blood pressure rose to a dangerous level in June 2025. (AC ¶49) On June 24, 2025, Walker wrote to the commissioners complaining that he was being retaliated against because of his association with his wife and their discrimination complaints. (AC ¶48)

Walker applied for and was granted intermittent FMLA leave on June 26, 2025 and began working reduced hours. He remained on FMLA leave until he was terminated. (AC ¶50) The complaint alleges that all commissioners and Dr. Cohen were aware Walker was on FMLA leave when the termination decision was made. (AC ¶55)

Walker was given one week’s notice prior to his July 9, 2025 layoff — less than two weeks after his FMLA leave began. The complaint notes this layoff came ten months after his KHRC age discrimination filing; two months after his wife’s default judgment against the county; two weeks after his June 24 retaliation letter; less than six months after his statements to Beerbower and Milburn about gender discrimination; and two weeks after he began FMLA leave. (AC ¶56)

The complaint states the vote to terminate Walker was unanimous — all defendants voted in favor and Dr. Cohen did not counsel against it. (AC ¶58) The commission publicly claimed it outsourced the IT department to save money. (AC ¶59)

Key Allegation: What Beerbower Allegedly Said

The complaint includes an allegation that goes to the core of the retaliation claim. After the layoff, the complaint states:

“Commissioner Beerbower told a county employee that the County commissioners ‘got rid of Shane’ because they ‘could not get rid of Susan.'”

Because Susan Walker is an elected official, the complaint notes, the commissioners cannot terminate her. (AC ¶¶58–60; AC ¶¶87–88)

The complaint disputes the county’s cost-savings rationale, alleging the outsourcing decision was more expensive, less effective, and more time-consuming than retaining Walker. The complaint states current estimates put costs at double, that performance has been less efficient, that security issues have occurred, and that three different elected officials have circumvented the new IT system because of difficulties getting assistance. (AC ¶61)

Walker’s second KHRC complaint

On September 9, 2025, Walker filed a second KHRC complaint alleging his layoff was motivated by his association with his wife, retaliation for his gender discrimination advocacy, age discrimination, and retaliation for his 2024 age discrimination complaint. His original 2024 complaint was still pending at that time. (AC ¶62)

Post-Layoff: Alleged Continued Retaliation

When Walker was re-hired by the Register of Deeds in November 2025, the complaint alleges the commissioners and Dr. Cohen continued to interfere:

  • Health insurance: County policy provides health insurance to employees working 30 or more hours per week. Walker worked at least 30 hours. Despite this, Commissioner Milburn-Kee called the HR department and told them Walker should not be on the county’s health insurance. The complaint states no other 30-hour employee who had not filed administrative complaints had a commissioner attempt to interfere with their health insurance. (AC ¶¶65–67)
  • Seniority and benefits — “bridging”: County policy (called “bridging”) was to restore seniority, vacation, and sick leave for employees re-hired by elected officials. The complaint states the sheriff had done this several times without commissioner interference. In Walker’s case, defendants changed his employment records to set his seniority date to 2025, preventing bridging. The complaint states he was the only laid-off employee ever prevented from bridging by the County Commissioners. (AC ¶¶69–72)
  • Cohen’s statement to the Register of Deeds: The complaint alleges Dr. Cohen called the elected Register of Deeds and told her the commissioners were upset that she had re-hired Walker “because of his lawsuits.” The complaint clarifies that Walker had no active lawsuits against the county — only pending administrative complaints — and argues this statement is direct evidence of retaliatory motive. (AC ¶¶74–75)
  • HR administrator’s statement: The county’s HR administrator also pushed back on the hiring, telling the Register of Deeds that the commissioners did not “understand why you would hire someone who is suing the county.” (AC ¶97)
  • Beerbower’s FMLA comment: After Walker was re-hired, Commissioner Beerbower referred to his earlier use of FMLA medical leave as “Shane’s antics.” (AC ¶54)

The Ten Legal Claims

  • Count I — Breach of Contract against Bourbon County: County failed to provide required 45-day written notice of contract termination and failed to pay the 60-day severance ($20,448) and enhanced vacation pay for 2023–2024 and 2024–2025. (AC ¶¶77–81)
  • Count II — Kansas Wage Payment Act (KWPA) against Bourbon County, Cohen, Beerbower, Milburn-Kee, and Tran: The severance and vacation pay constitute “wages” under Kansas law (K.S.A. 44-323); defendants willfully withheld them, exposing defendants to wages plus a 100% penalty under K.S.A. 44-315(b). (AC ¶¶82–85)
  • Count III — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Termination and post-termination benefit interference in retaliation for Walker’s association with his wife, who engaged in protected Title VII activity. (AC ¶¶86–89)
  • Count IV — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Retaliation for Walker’s own advocacy against gender discrimination, which constitutes protected activity under Title VII. (AC ¶¶90–93)
  • Count V — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Retaliation for Walker’s September 2024 KHRC complaint alleging age discrimination. (AC ¶¶94–98)
  • Count VI — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 / First Amendment (Free Speech) against Beerbower, Cohen, Tran, and Bourbon County: Walker’s complaints about gender discrimination were protected speech on a matter of public concern, made as a private citizen. Defendants retaliated against him for that speech. (AC ¶¶99–103)
  • Count VII — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 / First Amendment (Right of Association) against Bourbon County: Terminating Walker and denying his benefits because his wife engaged in protected litigation and complaints violates his First Amendment right to associate with his spouse. (AC ¶¶104–108)
  • Count VIII — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 / Fourteenth Amendment (Due Process) against all defendants: Defendants deprived Walker of contractual property rights — including the 60-day severance, 48 days vacation per year, and health insurance — without due process. (AC ¶¶109–113)
  • Count IX — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Retaliation for Walker’s September 2025 KHRC complaint (filed after the layoff). (AC ¶¶114–119)
  • Count X — FMLA Retaliation and Interference against Bourbon County and Dr. Cohen: Walker was terminated less than two weeks after being approved for FMLA leave, while still on that leave. The complaint alleges this both constitutes retaliation and deprived Walker of his right to reinstatement at the end of the FMLA period. (AC ¶¶120–125)

Understanding the EEOC Process and the Right to Sue

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), an employee generally cannot file a federal lawsuit until they have first filed a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and received a “Right to Sue” letter.

What is a Right to Sue Letter?

According to the EEOC:

“If we are unable to conciliate the charge, we will then decide whether to file a lawsuit to protect individuals or the public interest. If we decide not to file a lawsuit, we will close the charge and issue a Notice of Right to Sue, which gives the charging party 90 days to file a lawsuit.”

A Right to Sue letter does not mean the EEOC found that discrimination occurred — it is authorization to proceed to federal court.

Source: EEOC: What You Can Expect After a Charge is Filed

Walker filed his first KHRC/EEOC complaint on September 30, 2024 (AC ¶34) and his second on September 9, 2025. (AC ¶62) He received a Right to Sue letter covering both his 2024 and 2025 EEOC complaints on December 10, 2025. (AC ¶76) This lawsuit was filed on March 9, 2026 — within the required 90-day window. (AC ¶76)

In Kansas, employees may also file complaints with the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC), which operates in a worksharing agreement with the EEOC, meaning a complaint filed with one agency is automatically cross-filed with the other.

Understanding FMLA: Why It Matters Here

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor, provides eligible employees of covered employers with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for qualifying medical reasons, including a serious health condition.

Federal Law on FMLA Retaliation

The Department of Labor states:

“The FMLA prohibits interference with an employee’s rights under the law, and prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee for opposing any practice, or because of involvement in any proceeding, related to FMLA.”

The law also entitles an eligible employee to be restored to the same or an equivalent position upon return from FMLA leave.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor: FMLA Frequently Asked Questions

The complaint alleges Walker was approved for intermittent FMLA leave on June 26, 2025 (AC ¶50) and was terminated less than two weeks later, on July 9, 2025, while still on that leave. (AC ¶122) The complaint further alleges that had he been allowed to continue his FMLA leave, he would have recovered and returned to the same position. (AC ¶125)

Relief Sought

The complaint seeks the following relief across the ten counts:

Court Documents

All documents are from Case No. 26-CV-01057-DDC-ADM, U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.

This article is based solely on court documents filed by Shane Walker. All descriptions of events are allegations and have not been proven in court. Bourbon County and the named defendants have not yet responded to the complaint and their side of the story is not reflected here.

Obituary

Obituary of Miles W. Thompson

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Miles W. Thompson, age 97, a resident of Manhattan Beach, California, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026.  He was born August 25, 1928, in Ft. Scott, Kanas, the son of William M. Thompson and Eva Ruth Shannon Thompson.  He served with the Signal Corps in United States Army from 1951 to 1953.  He used the skills he learned in the military to further his education and became an electrical engineer.  He worked for many years at Rockwell International.  His hobbies included old cars, model airplane, amateur radio and high-fidelity sound equipment.

Survivors include his three children, Miles Joseph Thompson and his wife, Brenda, Robert Thompson and Patricia Thompson; six grandsons and twelve great-grandchildren.  Miles was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Fritz Thompson.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, April 1st at the U. S. National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, Kansas where military honors will be provided by the U. S. Army Honor Guard.  Family and friends may meet at the Cheney Witt Chapel prior to leaving for the cemetery at 9:45 A.M. on Wednesday.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

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Obituary of Victor Johnnie Snow, Jr.

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Victor Johnnie Snow Jr., of Pittsburg, Kansas, passed away on March 23, 2026.

A man of deep faith, Victor lived with sincere devotion to God’s word and a generous spirit toward his community. He was a dedicated father who cherished his children and held them close to his heart. Victor was known for his kindness, fairness, and willingness to help anyone in need.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor Snow and Frances Snow; his sister, Edith Boeding; his former wife, Carolyn Snow; and his wife, Naomi Snow.

He is survived by his children: Victor Snow III and Lori Snow of Independence, Missouri; Michael Snow of Kansas City, Kansas; Vickie and Steve Henderson of Kansas City, Kansas; and Robert and Carmen Snow of Gentry, Arkansas. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia Barnes and her husband, David Barnes of Appleton, Missouri.  Also surviving are his grandchildren: Nicholas Snow and his wife, Becka; Victoria Goldberg and her husband, Nathan Goldberg; Steven Snow and his wife, Heavenly Snow; Steven Smith, Austin Smith, and Mel Henderson; and Cheyenne Smith, Laramie Smith, and Casey Snow; and great-grandchildren, Anastasia Snow and Nicholas Snow.

He will be greatly missed by his children, family, and all who knew him. Our loss is Heaven’s gain.

Pastor Danny Brown will conduct funeral services at 10:00 AM Monday, March 30th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Memory Gardens Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to Pittsburg Meals on Wheels and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

K-State Extension

Community Gathers to Learn About Ticks and Alpha‑Gal Syndrome at Southwind Extension Program

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Community Gathers to Learn About Ticks and Alpha‑Gal Syndrome at Southwind Extension Program

Fort Scott, KS — March 23, 2026 — Nearly 60 community members joined K-State Extension for the program “Beyond the Bite: Understanding Ticks and Alpha-Gal” last Monday evening at the FSCC campus. This event highlighted how K-State Extension – Southwind District is addressing emerging health issues with timely, research‑based education. An Alpha‑Gal–friendly baked potato bar was provided by Great Western Dining.

Raymond Cloyd, PhD, KSU Professor and Extension Specialist, presented on tick identification and life cycles, strategies for preventing tick bites, proper removal techniques, and recommended steps to take after spending time outdoors. Ticks are typically found just a few inches above the ground on vegetation. To remove a tick, individuals should use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure to remove the entire tick—including the head and mouthparts. After removal, the area should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

Priscilla Brenes, MPH, PhD, KSU Assistant Professor and Nutrition Specialist, discussed how Alpha‑Gal affects the body and shared nutritional strategies for managing life with Alpha‑Gal Syndrome (AGS). While there is currently no cure for AGS, individuals can reduce symptoms by carefully avoiding foods and products that may trigger reactions. Many people are surprised to learn that rotisserie chicken or turkey sausage may be seasoned or processed with beef‑derived ingredients. Some individuals with this allergy may also react to wearing leather boots, and others may need to carry an epinephrine auto‑injector.

Alpha‑Gal Syndrome is an allergy to red meat and mammal‑derived products that is becoming increasingly common across Kansas, particularly in rural areas. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, AGS can develop after a bite from the Lone Star tick. When an infected tick feeds on a human, alpha‑galactose (alpha‑gal) enters the body and triggers the immune system to produce antibodies. If the body later encounters alpha‑gal—through red meat or mammal‑derived products—a potentially life‑threatening allergic reaction can occur. Fish and poultry do not contain alpha‑gal antigens, making them safe options for those affected.

Symptoms of AGS may appear after eating red meat or being exposed to mammal‑derived products (including leather) and can include hives or itchy rash, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach pain, heartburn or indigestion, diarrhea, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, swelling of the lips, throat, tongue, or eyelids, and dizziness or faintness.

To request handouts from the program to be emailed or for additional information about Alpha‑Gal Syndrome, please contact Sandy Haggard, Southwind Extension Nutrition, Food Safety, and Health Agent, at [email protected] or 620‑365‑2242.

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Minutes of March 17, 2026 Regular Meeting of City of Fort Scott Commission

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Fort Scott City Hall.

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 Minutes of March 17, 2026 Regular Meeting

A meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held  in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, Julie Buchta and Mayor Kathryn Salsbury were present.

In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Chief Dave Bruner/FSFD, Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Lisa Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspections LLC, Ben Hart/BakerTilly (by phone), Darrin Petrowski/KDOT, Michael Hoyt, Patrick Wood, Geoffrey Marr, Dilynn Marr, Anita Walden/Freeman, Kevin Allen, Doug Eden .

SALSBURY led the Pledge of Allegiance and BUCHTA said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the agenda with the amendment of removal of Unfinished Business/Item A Consideration to Initiate Contractor License. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1404-A – Expense Approval Report–Payment Dates of February 25, 2026 – March 10, 2026 – $1,270,095.98

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of March 3, 2026

–  February Financials

Public Comment

Geoffrey Marr addressed the Commission regarding the airplane hangar currently owned by the City. He would like to lease or purchase it and fix it up and negotiate a long lease instead of it being torn down.

ACTION:  MATKIN will meet with MARR regarding an arrangement.

Anita Walden addressed the Commission to introduce herself as the Chief Administrative Officer at the new Freeman Hospital. She also thanked the City for their continued support.

Kevin Allen addressed the Commission in hopes to comment on the KDOT maintenance agreement specifically on Wall Street.

Appearances

Garth Herrmann/Gilmore & Bell – HERRMANN could not be present. HART presented Resolution No. 17-2026 Authorizing and Providing for the Construction Sanitary Sewer Pumping Station Improvements and Providing for the Payment of the Costs. He stated that there will be another Resolution in the future.

 MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the Resolution. SALSBURY seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0     

Darrin Petrowski/KDOT – PETROWSKI addressed the Commission regarding KDOT Maintenance Agreement on Hwy 69 and Hwy 54.

New Business

Public Hearing:

Vacation of Street and Alleys – Doug Eden – Consideration of Petition to Repeal Ordinance No. 3579 and Approve Ordinance No. 3796 – Vacation of Street and Alleys

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

FARMER left the meeting at 6:58PM and returned at 7:00PM.

EDEN presented his petition to vacate the north-south alley. It was recommended that the prior ordinance (No. 3579) be repealed and replaced with Ordinance No. 3796 addressing the vacation of Durkee Street, the east-west alley and the north-south alley for clarity.

MOTION:  WELLS moved to close the public hearing. VAN HOECKE seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the vacation. After having heard all the testimony on said petition on the 17TH day of MARCH, 2026 and all necessary information in order to fully understand the true nature of this petition, the City Commission of the City of Fort Scott, upon motion of DANCER and seconded by BUCHTA,  passed and approved to repeal Ordinance No. 3579 and the petition of the Petitioner to and vacate the platted Durkee Street located between Lots 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, Block 4 and Lots 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19,21, 23, 25, 27, Block 2, all in Durkee and Stout’s Addition to the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas; AND the alley running East and West through Lots 1-28, Block 2, Durkee and Stout’s Addition to the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas; AND the alley running North and South along the East side of Lots 27 & 28, Block 2, Durkee and Stout’s Addition to the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas. BUCHTA seconded. (Excerpt of Minutes of the same but separate document was submitted to Bourbon County Deeds for recording of the vacation).

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Action Items:

Consideration of Resolution No. 16-2026 and MELPA – Firetruck Financing

MOTION: WELLS moved to approve Resolution No. 16-2026. SALSBURY seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of Proposals for Fire Station Exhaust system

BRUNER stated that they received an Assistant to Firefighters Grant (AFG) last year for $106, 571.42 to be used for the exhaust systems in both fire stations. He went out for proposals (RFP) and received (2) back. The first was from Air Clean for  $101,750.00, the second from MagnaGrip that submitted (3) options however their lowest option was $106,913.00. BRUNER requested that the Commission approve the proposal from Air Clean.

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to approve the recommendation to accept the proposal from Air Cleaning for $101,750.00. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of 2026 Ground Lease Bids

MATKIN stated that (3) bids were received: $15,700.00, $13,160.00, and $11,776.00.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the bid for $15,700.00 from Mike Fritter of Richards, MO for the Ground Lease Bid of 94-acres. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of 2026 Cape Seal Program Proposal

MATKIN stated that we received (1) proposal from Vance Brothers for $388,948.00 and recommended that the Commission accept their proposal for the 2026 project.

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to approve the 2026 Cape Seal Program proposal as it’s been presented. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of Ordinance No. 3795– AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 3782 for CLG

DILLON stated that SHPO and the National Parks Service requested amendments to the ordinance for the CLG. She drafted what they asked for and FARMER approved to form. She requested that the Commission approve the ordinance so it could be submitted and the City could receive its CLG status.

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve Ordinance No. 3795. DANCER seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no.

MOTION CARRIED 4-1

Consideration of Amendment to Zoning Regulations – Connex Boxes – L. Dillon

DILLON stated that the Planning Commission has viewed the City Commission’s initial request and is returning it to the City Commission to make the decision.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve to table until April 7, 2026. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Reports and Comments        

City Engineer:

            –  Davis Lift Station update

            –  Railroad permit

–  Survey scheduled for Wall St.

–  E. National utility plan sent out

City Attorney: No Comment

City Manager:

–  Moody building update

            –  Railroad dialogue and spur system talks happening

–  Homeless situation in town

Commissioner Wells:

            –  Fort Scott Greyhounds going for title

Commissioner Van Hoecke:

            –  Homeless situation

Commissioner Dancer:

            –  SLA draft and 5-year lifecycle management plan for IT – April 7th

ACTION:  MATKIN will email all Commissioners prior to next meeting.

Commissioner Buchta:

            –  Shop local to help with sales tax

Commissioner Salsbury:

            –  Fish Fry until Good Friday at St. Mary’s

–  8th & Eddy intersection open

Adjourn

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:51PM. DANCER seconded.

MARCH 17, 2026, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:51PM.

  Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis/City Clerk

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

Pre-Season Sports Physicals Available at CHC/SEK

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The CHC Fort Scott building at 2322 S. Main.

Kansas students in grades 7-12 can receive their sports physicals for the upcoming school year at the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK), starting April 1, 2026.

“We encourage student-athletes to complete their physicals early,” said Linda Bean, DO, CHC/SEK Chief Clinical Officer. “By getting it done now, you can avoid the summer rush and ensure you’re ready for the upcoming season.”

Physicals are offered at all CHC/SEK Walk-In Care locations—no appointment needed. Families should bring the school’s form with them.

CHC/SEK offers walk-in care at the following locations:

  • Coffeyville
  • Columbus
  • Fort Scott
  • Iola
  • Miami, OK
  • Parsons
  • Pittsburg
  • Pleasanton

Parents can also request a sports physical during their child’s well-child visit with their primary care provider. At the appointment, parents should let the provider know that their child plans to participate in sports during the upcoming school year.

For more information, visit chcsek.org.

 

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About Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) serves as a healthcare hub for communities in Kansas and Oklahoma. CHC/SEK delivers quality, integrated care to nearly 90,000 patients each year with a goal of improving health, sustaining rural communities, and providing purpose-driven work to 950 staff members. Beyond healthcare, CHC/SEK finds innovative ways to improve lives by focusing on education, housing, and transportation. Regardless of income or insurance status, CHC/SEK ensures everyone receives the care they need. For more information, visit chcsek.org.

This email and any attachments may contain confidential information subject to protection under the Federal Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information (45 C.F.R. Parts 160 and 164). If you or your organization is a “Covered Entity” under the above mentioned regulations, you are obligated to treat such information in a manner consistent with the regulations.

Government, Kansas

Senate Will Lower Healthcare Costs and Override Governor’s Veto

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Topeka, KS — Today, Senate President Masterson issued a statement on Governor Kelly’s veto of SB 368.

“Laura Kelly has deliberately chosen to drive up the cost of healthcare for the many Kansans that choose to use healthcare sharing ministries with her veto of SB 368. This bi-partisan bill simply provides a tax deduction for Kansas taxpayers that use these important sharing ministries to cover healthcare costs for their families. The Senate will override this ridiculous veto and provide relief to Kansas families dealing with high healthcare costs,” said Masterson.

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Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Senate Bill 368

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today vetoed Senate Bill 368.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 368:

“There’s a reason that regulators across the country are taking action against these so-called health care ministries because too often, everyday people are left with huge medical bills. These health care ministries aren’t regulated, which opens the door to all sorts of fraud and abuse.

“Let me be clear, this is not about limiting anyone’s ability to practice their faith freely, it’s entirely about ensuring that Kansans are in a health care system that’s reliable and actually covers their medical expenses.

“Therefore, pursuant to Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution of the State of Kansas, I hereby veto Senate Bill 368.”

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Kansas, Youth

Foster Home Initiative: A Home For Every Child

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Kansas Joins National ‘A Home for Every Child’ Initiative to Bolster Access to Foster Homes

~~Kansas Becomes 7th State to Join Nationwide Initiative Aimed at Improving Ratio of Homes to Youth in Foster Care, 1st State with Approved Plan~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Thursday announced that Kansas has joined the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families’ (ACF) ‘A Home for Every Child’ initiative to improve the ratio of foster homes to children in Kansas and across the country. Governor Kelly made the announcement alongside federal officials from ACF and the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). Kansas is the first state to receive ACF approval for its ‘A Home for Every Child’ plan.

“This initiative underscores my administration’s work to strengthen Kansas’ child welfare system by expanding support for foster children and families,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By taking steps to eliminate barriers to safe, reliable foster homes, we’re setting more Kansas children up for long-term success and empowering them to live full, thriving lives in comfortable and supportive environments.”

‘A Home for Every Child’ reinforces Governor Kelly’s longstanding commitment to making Kansas the best state to raise a family. According to ACF, nationwide there are only 57 homes for every 100 children entering foster care. The ‘A Home for Every Child’ initiative aims to achieve a foster-home-to-child ratio of at least 1:1 nationwide through effective collaboration with states, which includes cutting bureaucratic red tape, improved data collection and reporting, new incentives, support for kin-first placements, and more.

“The Administration for Children and Families is grateful for the bipartisan support behind A Home for Every Child, and we are confident Governor Kelly’s leadership will continue to deliver meaningful reforms to child welfare that protect children and keep families together when possible,” said Assistant Secretary Alex Adams, Administration for Children and Families. “By joining A Home for Every Child, Kansas is focusing on what matters most while allowing its caseworkers to spend more time actually serving children and families across the state rather than filling out federal paperwork.”

ACF offered states the ability to voluntarily transition from existing Child and Family Services Review Program Improvement Plans into the ‘A Home for Every Child’ pilot framework. This shift enables Kansas to become more outcome focused and relies on data-driven accountability. As the 7th state to join ‘A Home for Every Child,’ Kansas has the opportunity to engage early, contribute to federal learning, and modernize performance improvement efforts while maintaining accountability for safety, permanency, and well-being.

“We’re proud to partner in this opportunity to further achieve meaningful outcomes for Kansas families. This effort provides flexibility for innovative approaches alongside families through targeted, practical measures that reflect our state’s goals to prevent and reduce the need for foster care,” said Secretary Laura Howard, Kansas Department for Children and Families. “Every child deserves safety, stability, and a sense of community—and every family deserves the support needed to thrive.”

Additional information about ACF’s ‘A Home for Every Child’ initiative can be found here.

Photos from today’s event are available for media use below:

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Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott March 26 Edition

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott March 26th Edition!

Tuesday, March 31st

📱 Google Business 101

This 1-hour Business Builder Workshop is a great fit for local businesses and retailers looking to improve visibility, local search results, and customer trust.

Have you registered yet?

Click the button below!
Register HERE

🚎 Historic Trolley Tours are Back!

Ride Dolly the Trolley and explore Fort Scott’s history

with a narrated tour.

Fridays & Saturdays – Now Boarding!

RADIO AUCTION Every Wednesday & Thursday

Click HERE for details!

Ready to grow your business?

Don’t miss this destination marketing workshop!

Featured Speaker

👤 Jon Schallert

Nationally recognized expert in helping businesses become “Consumer Destinations”

Stop blending in – learn how to stand out and attract customers from miles away!
REGISTER FOR JOHN SCHALLERT WORKSHOP HERE

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

FS Public Library

*Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30-3pm

201 S. National Ave.

Kansas Small Business Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 9am-3pm.

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

Want more details or updates Community, Chamber, and Member events?

You can find full dates, times, locations, and links on our community calendar on the Chamber’s website at:

👉 fortscott.com/events/calendar/

WEEKEND EVENTS

Friday, March 26th – Sunday, April 5th

🟢 FRIDAY, MARCH 27

🎶 City of Fort Scott Event: Olivia Lane & Rhett Walker

📍 Fort Scott Gathering Square Pavilion

🥔 Friendship Lunch – Potato Bar

🕚 11:30-1pm

📍 First United Methodist Church,

in the Fellowship Hall @ FUMC

301 S. National Ave.

🍽️ Lenten Friday Fish Fry – Knights of Columbus

📍 Kennedy Gym, 705 S. Holbrook St.

🟢 SATURDAY, MARCH 28

👩‍🍳 Little Chefs Class – The Kitchen C+C 📍 The Kitchen C+C

🎖️ Flight of Honor Gala

🕚 6-9pm

📍 The River Room, 3 W. Oak St.

🟢 TUESDAY, MARCH 31

🎓 Business Builder Workshop: Google Business 101

🕜 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

📍 Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Room, 302 E. Wall St.

💲 $10 Members | $20 Non-Members

🔗 https://fortscott.com/events

🟢 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1

🎓 FSHS Career Fair

🕗 Morning event

📍 Fort Scott High School

💬 Students connect with local businesses, careers, and opportunities

🛍️ Blissful Meadows Boutique – Grand Opening Celebration ⭐

🕑 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

📍 1 S. Main St., Downtown Fort Scott

✂️ Ribbon Cutting & Remarks: 5:30 PM

🟢 THURSDAY, APRIL 2

☕ Chamber Coffee hosted by FS Presbyterian Village

🕚 8am

📍 Fort Scott Presbyterian Village

2401 S. Horton St.

🟢 FRIDAY, APRIL 3

👔 Young Professionals League (YPL) Meeting

🕛 12:00 PM

📍 Papa Don’s Pizza

🍻 YPL Mix & Mingle

🕕 6:00 PM

📍 Sharky’s Pub

🎨 First Friday at The Artificers

🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 8 N. National Ave.

💬 Art, shopping, refreshments, and community connection

🟢 SATURDAY, APRIL 4th

CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBER

🔧Virgil’s Mobile Mechanic – Grand Reopening / New Location Event

📍 Virgil’s Mobile Mechanic, 1217 S. Clark St.

🕕 12-2

🕕 Easter Egg Hunt at 1pm

A&W Spring Classic – Breakaway Roping

🕛 12:00-3pm

📍Arndt Ranch Indoor Arena, 1795 Highway 54, Fort Scott KS

➡️ Approximately 4 miles west of Fort Scott, KS @ National Trailer Source

FS Rec Dept. Easter Eggstravaganza

🕛 3-5pm

📍 Buck Run Community Center

735 S. Scott St.

Easter Story Biblical Drama @ Bethel Community Baptist Church

🕛 10:30am

📍Bethel Comm. Baptist Church

1397 155th St.

 

✅ See more events & details:

https://fortscott.com/events

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!
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.
REMINDER:
SAVE THE DATE / GET REGISTERED NOW!

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBERS!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall Street
Fort Scott, KS 66701
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Bourbon County

Bo Co Coalition Meeting Is April 1

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The next Bourbon County Coalition General Membership meeting will be next Wednesday, April 1st at 1:00 p.m. in the Conference room at the Scottview Apartments, 315 S. Scott Ave.

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Agenda

 

April 1, 2026 1:00 PM

Scottview Conference Room

315 S. Scott Ave

 

 

  1.  Welcome: 

 

 

  1.  Member Introductions and Announcements:

 

 

  1.  Program:  Winter Moore & Rachel Eden, SparkWheel

 

 

  1.  Open Forum:

 

 

  1.  Adjournment:  The next General Membership meeting will be May 6, 2026.

 

Bourbon County Local News