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KS Bill Banning Use of Personal Electronic Devices During School Day Is Signed
Kansas Will Capitalize on Timber Production and Protect Communities from Devastating Wildfires
USDA Announces $115.2 Million in Nine States, $1.72 Million in Kansas, to Capitalize on Timber Production and Protect our Communities from Devastating Wildfires
(Topeka, Kansas, March 23, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development’s Rural Business Cooperative Service Administrator J.R. Claeys announced $115.2 Million across eight states through the Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program (TPEP), to ensure sawmills and other wood processing facilities have the necessary funding to establish, reopen, expand, or improve their operations. In Kansas, Berg Reinvigorations LLC is receiving $1,725,500 dollars.
“We cannot allow wildfires to devastate and destroy our rural communities,” said Claeys. “That’s why the USDA is taking this bold action to stop the destruction of our forestlands by investing in sawmills and wood processing facilities that support sustainable timber harvesting. Through the announcement made today, the Trump Administration is strengthening local businesses, driving rural prosperity, and supporting 485 jobs for hardworking Americans.”
“Wildfires have already been devastating for parts of Kansas, and prairie and range management is not enough for wildfire control,” said Gimmie Jo Jansonius, Director of Rural Development in Kansas. “This investment will assist in forestland management and create and keep jobs in Kansas.”
Berg Reinvigorations in Montgomery County will use the Timber Production Expansion Program Guaranteed Loan Program to make building improvements, purchase machinery and
equipment, refinance debt, and pay loan related costs.
Today’s announcement assists with projects in seven other states. The full details on the Kansas project are:
A $1,725,500 loan for Berg Reinvigorations will assist with building improvements, purchasing machinery and equipment, refinancing debt, and paying loan related costs. Berg Reinvigorations is an existing sawmill located in Montgomery County, Kansas. This project is expected
to create eight jobs and retain seven jobs.
These investments represent a commitment by the Trump Administration to expand American timber production by 25%, reduce wildfire risk, and save American lives and communities by strengthening domestic wood processing capacity.
“The value of National Forest Systems lands is demonstrated by providing various forest products, such as timber, lumber, paper, bioenergy, and other wood products,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “The American forest products industry is critical to maintaining the health of the nation’s forests. The Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program is one of many ways the Forest Service partners with the timber industry to maintain rural jobs, processing facilities, and an outlet for wood that needs to be removed from national forests.”
The Timber Production Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program is made possible by a partnership between the USDA Rural Development and US Forest Service. The program helps address the wildfire crisis by investing in local sawmills that clear out dangerous fuel in our forestlands, helping to remove the most immediate threats to communities, critical infrastructure, and natural resources. This program is available to qualified lenders whose loan applicants want to establish, reopen, expand, or improve a sawmill or other wood processing facility that processes ecosystem restoration byproducts from USDA Forest Service National Forest System lands.
For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making RD’s investment data accessible to the public.
If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit GovDelivery subscriber page.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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From the Bleachers-755 by Dr. Jack Welch
FROM THE BLEACHERS-755
BY DR. JACK WELCH
No Honor Among Thieves
If you spend enough time around teams, businesses, or organizations, you eventually learn an important truth: not everyone in the room is pulling in the same direction.
Some people spend their time building others up. Others spend their time tearing people down. They smile in the boss’s office and then mock him in the hallway.
The interesting thing about people who gossip and backbite is they often live-in constant paranoia. They assume others are talking about them because they know exactly what they say about others. I have always believed there is no honor among thieves. The person who talks bad about someone behind their back will eventually do the same to you.
I recently witnessed an employee who worked in an office where the boss had just finished speaking to the staff about the direction of the business. After the meeting, several employees gathered in this person’s nearby office. The young lady started poking fun at the boss’s message, mimicking his tone and joking about his ideas while others laughed.
What they didn’t realize was the boss had left the meeting shortly after and was walking down the hallway. As he passed the office, he could clearly hear the conversation. He didn’t stop. He didn’t say a word. He simply kept walking.
What the young lady never knew was that the boss had been considering her for a promotion. She was talented and doing good work. Leaders look for more than talent. They look for character, loyalty, and trust. What do you think about the possible promotion? Good leaders pay attention to how people behave when they think no one is watching. So how do you deal with people who gossip and tear others down?
First, recognize who they are. Not everyone deserves the same level of trust. Second, try to help them if you can. Sometimes people fall into gossip because they want attention or approval. Third, pray for them. People who tear others down often have something broken inside themselves.
Most importantly, be wise enough to understand their character. Great teams are built on trust and people can change. Teammates defend one another, support one another, and speak well of one another. The truth is simple. If someone constantly tears others down behind their back, eventually they will do the same to you.
Remember, there is no honor among thieves.
Thought for the Week, “Character is revealed not by what people say in front of others, but by what they say when others leave the room.” Jack Welch
Dr. Jack Welch serves as President of Fort Scott Community College. With a career spanning professional sports, public education, and rural community development, he brings a servant-leader mindset and a passion for building trust-driven cultures that empower people to thrive in the classroom, on the field, and in life. He is also the author of Foundations of Coaching: The Total Coaching Manual.
Draft Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on March 10
The Regular Council Meeting on March 10, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Kyle Knight. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
CITIZENS REQUEST
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Johnson presented the February 2026 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $244,279.23, Receipts $30,427.36, Transfers Out $3,024.25, Expenditures $50,647.95, Checking Account Closing Balance $221,034.39. Bank Statement Balance $221,850.42, including Checking Account Interest of $45.56, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $816.03, Reconciled Balance $221,034.39. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,432.35, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,422.45, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $50,925.50, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $339,814.69. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $92.47, and Utility CDs $633.31 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $725.78. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2026, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, for Total Transfers of $3,024.25. Net loss for the month of February $23,244.84, Year-to-Date Net Income $20,288.93. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $41,872.97 (32.4%), Expenditures $16,034.84 (12.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $6,743.25 (18.7%), Expenditures $5,159.58 (12.1%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $22,994.33 (18.5%), Expenditures $12,604.35 (8.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $33,972.85 (23.1%), Expenditures $17,454.62 (7.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,010.48 (27.6%), Expenditures $1,422.03 (12.7%). The March 2026 payables to date in the amount of $23,075.39.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
- Minutes of February 10, 2026 Regular Meeting
- February Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & March Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the cost of Bio Mist used for mosquito fogging has increased to $111.00 per gallon, totaling approximately $278 per fogging session. The Council and Rich discussed the possibility of more affordable alternatives; however, Rich reported that he has been unsuccessful in identifying any cheaper effective options. The Council agreed to continue using the current product. Beginning in April, fogging will be scheduled every three weeks instead of every two weeks. As peak mosquito season approaches, the schedule will return to every two weeks. Rich also suggested including a paragraph in the city newsletter to remind residents that standing water in yards or around homes serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The notice will include tips on how individuals can help reduce the mosquito population.
Clerk Arnold reminded the Council of upcoming City Hall closures on March 11–13 due to the CCMFOA Conference, and on March 26–27 due to the Municipal Court Clerk Conference. Arnold asked the Council to determine dates for the Spring and Fall citywide cleanups. The Council decided that two roll-off dumpsters would be provided for the 2026 cleanups, scheduled for April 27–30 and August 31–September 3. There was discussion regarding hosting a town-wide garage sale this year; however, the Council ultimately decided against it due to low community participation in previous years. Arnold also confirmed with the Council whether to order fish food again this year for the pond located by the school. The Council approved the purchase and requested that Arnold obtain pricing from multiple vendors.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Knight – requested an update on when Marbery Concrete Inc. would begin work on the FEMA project at 2nd and Clay Streets. Mayor Jurgensen reported that a recent vehicle accident involving Marbery Concrete Inc. resulted in the loss of equipment, which put a delay on the start of the project. Weather permitting, work is expected to begin once conditions allow. Knight also asked if new culverts will be put in and Treasurer Johnson had confirmed they will replace with new culverts to help with water flow.
Councilwoman Kelly – none
Councilwoman Pemberton – inquired about who is responsible for unlocking the storm shelters during severe weather events. Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the shelters remain unlocked during this time of year due to the increased likelihood of inclement weather. Pemberton also asked whether it would be possible for someone not affiliated with the city to perform ditch cleanout and replace a culvert at 201 2nd St. Mayor Jurgensen responded that this is not allowed, as the city is responsible for ditch and culvert maintenance. Superintendent Rich added that he would inspect the area and address the ditch and culvert to the best of his ability.
Councilwoman Pritchett – absent
Councilman Stewart – absent
Mayor Jurgensen – none
OLD BUSINESS
FEMA Flooding– As previously discussed earlier in the meeting, Marbery Concrete Inc. will begin repairs when weather permits. Mayor Jurgensen and Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that a one-year extension on the project has been filed and approved.
Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments– Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that the City has not raised water rates since 2024 and sewer rates have not been increased since 2013. Johnson proposed new water and sewer rates to take effect in April 2026. The Council reviewed the figures provided and discussed the proposed adjustments.
Moved by Pemberton, seconded by Knight, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly water rate for users within city limits at $28.66 for the first 1,000 gallons, with an additional $12.98 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. For users outside city limits, the minimum monthly rate will be $29.90 for the first 1,000 gallons, with a charge of $13.55 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the water rate.
Moved by Kelly, seconded by Pemberton, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly sewer fee at $27.50 for the first 1,000 gallons of water usage, with an additional $0.31 per 1,000 gallons thereafter, per water meter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the sewer rate.
Knight asked how the City’s rates compare to those of surrounding areas. A discussion followed regarding rates in neighboring communities and the differences in bulk water purchase rates compared to those areas.
NEW BUSINESS
Moved by Kelly, Second by Knight, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 7:55PM
What’s Happening In Fort Scott March 23 Edition
What’s Happening in Fort Scott March 23 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 on 103.9 FM – Every Wednesday & Thursday at 3PM.
- 🏛️ Fort Scott National Historic Site – Visitor Center and historic buildings open Friday–Tuesday, 8:30am–4:30pm. Grounds open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset.
- 🎨 The Artificers – Classes for ALL ages!
- 🎯 BINGO – Hosted by American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday (not on holidays). Doors open 6pm, Bingo starts 7pm at Memorial Hall.
- 💼 KANSASWORKS – Every Tuesday 9am–4pm at Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave. Call 620-231-4250.
- 📚 FS Public Library: Wednesday Writers – Every Wednesday @ 1:30–3pm, 201 S. National Ave.
- 📊 Kansas Small Business Development Center – At the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday, 9am–3pm.
- 🤝 Grief Share Support Group – Mondays 5–7pm, Mary Queen of Angels Church, Rm 203. Jan 2nd–March 30th.
- 🎬 $3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!
- 📅 Full community calendar: fortscott.com/events/calendar/
🔵 Monday, March 23
- 💛 GriefShare Support Group
- 🏛 Bourbon County Commission Meeting
- 🐜 Beyond the Bite: Ticks & Alpha-Gal Program hosted by Southwind Extension District
🟣 Tuesday, March 24
- 💼 KANSASWORKS (9AM–4PM)
- 🤝 Kiwanis Weekly Meeting
- 🎬 $3 Movie Day at Fort Cinema
- 🌮 VFW Taco Tuesday
- 🐄 Beef Quality Assurance
🟢 Wednesday, March 25
- ✍️ Wednesday Writers – FS Public Library
- 🌱Seed Snail Gardening Workshop – Shead Farm (6-8pm, Garland, KS, $25)
🟡 Thursday, March 26
- Chamber Coffee hosted by Bids & Dibs, 121 E. 2nd St.
🔴 Friday, March 27
- 🎶 Olivia Lane & Rhett Walker Event (City of Fort Scott)
- 🚋 Trolley Tour of Historic Fort Scott
- 🍽 Friendship Lunch – Potato Bar (11:30 AM – 1:00 PM)
👉 Hosted by First United Methodist Church in Fellowship Hall
🟢 Saturday, March 28
- 🚋 Trolley Tour of Historic Fort Scott
- 👩🍳 Little Chefs Class – The Kitchen C+C, 9am
- ✈️ Flight of Honor Gala – “Come Fly With Us”
⏰ 6:00 – 9:00 PM
📍 River Room Event Center,
3 W. Oak St., Fort Scott
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports March 23
Fort Scott Allies For Cats Meeting is April 11
There will be a meeting Saturday April 11 at Common Ground for a new group called Fort Scott Allies for Cats. This group will focus on supporting the cat communities in Fort Scott by initiating a strong Trap, Neuter, Return program, with the possibility of a new no-kill humane society and/or spay-and-neuter clinic down the road.
If anyone out there has grant writing experience and would be willing to help us to write a grant, your presence would be greatly appreciated.
We encourage all veterinarians in the area, cat groups and individuals to come to this meeting. If we all work together, we can do this. Questions? Email [email protected] or text 435-899-0321.
Updating Interstate Foster Care Compact
Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill
Updating Interstate Foster Care Compact
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed House Bill 2557, which enacts the revised Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children (ICPC).
“This bill builds upon my commitment to Kansas children and families by making necessary reforms to the child welfare system,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “In signing this legislation, we are ensuring that children who require out-of-state placement receive the same protections and services that would be provided if they remained in their home states.”
The ICPC governs the placement of children across state lines through foster care, and both public and private adoptions. Under this legislation, Kansas becomes the 21st state to join the updated version of the compact. By moving forward at this time, Kansas also becomes a member of the compact’s rulemaking body – ensuring the state continues to have a voice in protecting the interests of its children, families, and placement providers.
“First enacted in Kansas in 1976, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children has served an important role, but it has not kept pace with today’s child welfare system,” said Representative Cyndi Howerton, District 98. “HB 2557 is a practical and necessary update—modernizing outdated language, strengthening interstate collaboration, and ensuring Kansas children can safely access appropriate placements across state lines. By adopting the revised compact and engaging in rulemaking from day one, Kansas continues to lead in protecting children, supporting families, and ensuring accountability in every placement.”
HB 2557 expands upon the significant steps Governor Kelly has taken throughout her time in office to reform Kansas’ child welfare system. In January 2025, Governor Kelly signed Executive Order 25-01, a first of its kind executive order to reform the allocation of federal benefits to youth in foster care. In April 2023, Governor Kelly signed House Bill 2024, establishing Kansas’ Foster Care Bill of Rights and outlining the rights of foster youth, foster parents, and family care providers.
“By updating the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children, we’re taking reasonable steps to connect children in our child welfare system to safe, reliable homes,” said Representative Jarrod Ousley, District 24. “This legislation is doing right by children and families.”
In addition to House Bill 2557, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:
House Bill 2711: Modifying and updating procedures for dissolution of cities of the third class, which have a population of less than 2,000 residents.
House Bill 2733: Requiring any person who is a candidate or who has been elected to certain offices shall be and must remain a resident of Kansas or the appropriate district.
House Bill 2433: Reaffirming the state’s authority over the transfer or appropriation of water by explicitly placing such authority, except for domestic use, with the chief engineer and the water transfer hearing panel.
House Bill 2478: Requiring that advanced practice registered nurses and registered nurse anesthetists submit to a criminal history check upon application for a nursing license.
Senate Bill 146: Requiring the secretary for aging and disability services and the City of Osawatomie to execute and record an amendment to the original deed for conveyance of certain real property in Miami County, extending the conveyance to July 1, 2046.
Senate Bill 299: Requiring the Supreme Court Nominating Commission to release certain records under the Kansas Open Records Act.
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Support for Fallen Law Enforcement Officers and Their Families
Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Strengthening Support for Fallen Law Enforcement Officers
and Their Families
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed Senate Bill 445, which requires the Kansas Highway Patrol and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to provide support and assistance for fallen law enforcement officers’ funerals as well as to their families and agencies.
“Every day, Kansas law enforcement officers put their lives at risk in service to their state and to their fellow Kansans. This legislation is a solemn reminder that we must be prepared to provide support if officers make the ultimate sacrifice,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Through Senate Bill 445, we are ensuring fallen officers’ agencies and families have the assistance and support they need when they have to face an unimaginable loss.”
Under Senate Bill 445, temporary personnel and other assistance will be available, upon a submitted request from the relevant Kansas law enforcement agency, to support funeral services in honor of officers who have died in the line of duty.
“Law enforcement families share the risks and weight of public service. When an officer is killed in the line of duty, their family should not shoulder the burden of this sacrifice on their own,” said Senator Ethan Corson, District 7. “Senate Bill 445 goes beyond words of gratitude and offers meaningful support for funeral and memorial ceremonies to ensure their loved one is properly honored. This bipartisan legislation, signed into law by Governor Kelly, guarantees these families receive the dignity and care they deserve.”
Senate Bill 445 will help agencies honor fallen officers, aid fallen officers’
“Senate Bill 445 helps ensure Kansas law enforcement agencies and families have steady support during incredibly difficult times, and it guarantees this support will be in place for future tragic events,” said Senator Elaine Bowers, District 36. “In 2025, we lost four brave officers — Deputy Brandon Gaede of Phillips County, Deputy Elijah Ming of Wyandotte County, Officer Hunter Simoncic of Kansas City, Kansas, and Sergeant Scott Heimann of Hays — and this bill honors their service by supporting those they left behind.”
In addition to Senate Bill 445, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:
House Bill 2332: Establishing a seal for the house of representatives and providing for its custody and use.
House Bill 2477: Requiring the Kansas Department of Agriculture to publish a map on its official website that shows the location of all applied-for diversions of water and requested changes of more than 300 feet.
House Bill 2624: Authorizing a board of county commissioners to disorganize a fire district at any time when the fire district contains no territory.
House Bill 2555: Provides legislative oversight of the Rural Health Transformation Program by requiring certain information pertaining to the program be regularly submitted to certain legislative committees.
House Bill 2540: Exempting contingent deferred annuities from the standard nonforfeiture law for individual deferred annuities.
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What’d You Say? by Carolyn Tucker
Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker
What’d You Say?
My oldest granddaughter is in sixth grade and loves to read. She’s developed a mature vocabulary, but I occasionally say some hillbilly words that throws her for a loop. One evening, my family was visiting in the living room and, I don’t remember what we were talking about, Lydia Mae joined in and said, “Instead of staring off into the vast obese”… and that’s when her dad and I burst out laughing. We knew she meant to say “abyss,” but we took advantage of the opportunity to laugh like we meant it. Obviously, both the younger and older generations have verbal malfunctions occasionally. And that makes me feel better about myself when I grope for a word.
Our words are important and so are God’s words. The Bible is chock full of promises to His children. In the Old Testament, Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be born to save His people from their sins and an angel reiterated that same prophecy to Joseph. “Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us’” (Matthew 1:23 NLT). In the next chapter we read that what God said came true – Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
I love the following anonymous quote: “God is everywhere we have ever been and everywhere we will ever go.” Isn’t that comforting? No matter what our circumstances are, God never leaves His followers. In the New Testament, Jesus was speaking to His disciples and said, “…Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NLT). Jesus is always with His children, guiding and protecting us through all of life’s challenges. We all know that life isn’t always a rose garden.
An atheist had scribbled a note that read, “God is nowhere.” When a young boy, just learning to read found the note, he read it as, “God is now here.” I wholeheartedly agree that ‘God is with us.’ All we have to do is open our eyes and heart to see God’s fingerprints and footprints all over our lives. God is involved in everything that does and doesn’t happen to us. He is all-seeing, all-knowing, all-caring, and all-loving. Nothing escapes His view of our lives. “The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; His ears are open to their cries for help. The Lord hears His people when they call to Him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles” (Psalm 34:15,18 NLT).
God’s Word never falters, fails, or changes. Christ followers can always trust Him to be with us and help us. God knows exactly what He has said in His Word, and we’d be better off if we actually knew what He said! Whatever Jesus said when He walked the earth, He’s still saying it to us today. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NLT). Not personally knowing and believing what God’s promises are is like going hunting with an unloaded rifle. You’re simply going through the motions of being a great hunter (Christian) but when it’s time to pull the trigger, you don’t have what it takes to get the job done.
When we know and believe God’s promises are true for us, Christ followers have what it takes to “get ‘er done.” In the Old Testament, God said: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 NLT).
The Key: God never uses wrong words. He says what He means and means what He says.
Obituary of William George Province
William George Province, 77, of Fort Scott, passed away at his home on March 16, 2026. He was born April 1, 1948, in Carthage, Missouri, the son of George and Barbara Province. He graduated from Fort Scott High School with the class of 1966. He married Penelope “Pennie” Sue Hudson on December 18, 1971, in Fort Scott, and she preceded him in death in 2014.
Bill was a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict.
Bill is survived by a son, Ryan and wife, Stacie Province of Shawnee, Kansas; a daughter, Brooke and husband, Mike Sebbert, of Olathe, Kansas; and 2 grandsons, Cael and Ian Province. In addition to his wife, Pennie, he was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Cheryl Butler.
Bill will be buried in the Fort Scott National Cemetery with his wife Pennie. A private graveside service will be held for family. The family would like to offer a special thank you to the wonderful staff of Caring Hearts Home Health and Harry Hynes Hospice who provided kind and compassionate care to Bill in his final days.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, 3 Medical Center Circle, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Memorial contributions may also be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.
March 23 Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda Summary
Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda
Date: March 23, 2026 | Time: 5:30 PM Location: 210 S National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Meeting Agenda Outline
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I. Call Meeting to Order (Page 1)
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II. Pledge of Allegiance (Page 1)
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III. Prayer (Page 1)
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IV. Approval of Agenda (Page 1)
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V. Approval of Minutes (March 16, 2026) (Page 1)
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VI. Approval of Accounts Payable (March 20, 2026 – $500,393.76) (Page 1)
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VII. Executive Session (K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Teri Hulsey) (Page 1)
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VIII. Public Comments (Page 1)
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IX. Department Updates (Page 1)
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a. EMS Update – Teri Hulsey
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X. Old Business (Page 1)
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a. Sewer issue
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b. Audit RFP
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c. Salary Resolution – Gregg Motley
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d. CIC Hardware Support
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XI. New Business (Page 1)
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a. ADM Agreement
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b. Culvert Application
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c. Tax Corrections
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d. Property Tax Relief – 1111 Beech
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e. Title IV-E County Reimbursement Opportunity
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XII. Future Agenda Topics (Page 1)
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XIII. Commissioner Comments (Page 1)
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XIV. Adjournment (Page 1)
Meeting Information Packet Summary
Previous Meeting Minutes (March 16, 2026)
The packet includes detailed minutes from the March 16 meeting. Key highlights include:
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Accounts Payable Transparency: Discussions regarding the accurate labeling of settlement payments versus commissioner wages (Page 3).
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Public Comments: Statements from County Clerk Susan Walker regarding office transparency and allegations of criminal conduct. Citizens also spoke on commissioner salary structures and audit plans (Pages 3-4).
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Department Updates: Concerns were raised regarding the lack of a formal hard surface road plan for the 1% road tax (Page 4).
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Salary Resolution: The commission voted (4-1, with one abstention) to maintain current commissioner compensation levels while establishing official salaries for the Road and Bridge, Appraiser, EMS, and County Counselor positions (Pages 4-5).
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KORA and Operations: Discussion on centralizing Kansas Open Records Act requests through the Clerk’s office and switching emergency alert systems from Code Red to Genesis for significant cost savings (Pages 5-6).
Financial Reports (March 20, 2026)
The packet contains a comprehensive “Open Invoices By Department Summary” totaling over $500,000.
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General Fund: Includes standard payroll clearing and insurance payments (Page 8).
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Employee Benefit Fund: The largest single department total at $82,742.91, covering worker’s compensation and retirement contributions (Page 10).
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Sheriff & Correctional: Expenditures totaling $77,505.65 for inmate transport, medical supplies, and facility maintenance (Pages 12-13).
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Landfill and Road & Bridge: Detailed lists of commodity purchases including fuel, equipment repairs, and operational supplies (Pages 11, 13).
Contractual and Maintenance Agreements
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Beneficial Reuse Agreement: Documentation regarding environmental non-feed use and amendments to existing reuse agreements (Page 47).
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Environmental Permits: Information regarding the Bourbon County Transfer Station and waste management points of contact (Page 47).