Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda – September 14, 2026, 5:30 PM

agenda-packet (full PDF)

Agenda as of September 11th, 2026 6:49 PM Central for the September 14th, 2026 5:30 PM meeting, fetched from HeyGov when this draft was created.

• I. Call Meeting To Order (Page 1)
• II. Pledge Of Allegiance (Page 1)
• III. Prayer (Page 1)
• IV. Introductions (Page 1)
• V. Public Hearing (Revenue Neutral Rate) (Page 1)
• VI. Approval Of Agenda (Page 1)
• VII. Approval Of Minutes (Page 1)
• VIII. Approval Of Accounts Payable $ (Page 1)
• IX. Public Comments (Page 1)
• X. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Subject: a specific employee pay request (Page 1)
• XI. Department Updates (Page 1)
  • a. Darla Hout with Lexipol Grant-Finder – radio project, by phone (sheriff)
• XII. Old Business (Page 1)
  • a. SEKRPC Update – Motley
  • b. Comp Plan – Tran (Pages 14–17)
• XIII. New Business (Page 2)
  • a. Citizen Involvement by K. Allen – Milburn
  • b. Request for Fence Viewing – Motley (Page 29)
  • c. KC Crown Inc. Fort Scott Project – Motley (Pages 33–35)
  • d. HR RFP – Allen (Pages 36–38)
• XIV. Commission Comments (Page 2)
• XV. Future Agenda Topics (Page 2)
• XVI. Adjournment (Page 2)

Detailed Information Packet Summary

1. Meeting Agenda Overview (Pages 1–2)

The September 14, 2026 regular meeting of the Bourbon County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled for 5:30 PM at 210 S National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS 66701. This meeting will include a public hearing for Revenue Neutral Rate (R&R) also at 5:30 PM.

2. Notice of Hearing to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate and Budget Hearing (Page 3)

The governing body of Bourbon County will meet on September 14, 2026 at 5:30 PM at 210 S National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS 66701 for the purpose of hearing and answering objections of taxpayers relating to the proposed use of all funds and the amount of ad valorem tax and Revenue Neutral Rate. Detailed budget information is available at https://www.bourboncountyks.org/. Publication date: August 29, 2026. Commission Chairman: Gregory Motley.

Budget Summary – Proposed 2027 vs. Prior Years:

• General Fund: 2025 Actual $3,039,701 (12.754 mills); 2026 Estimate $3,380,151 (13.004 mills); 2027 Budget Authority $3,605,838, Ad Valorem Tax $1,869,572 (13.004 mills)
• Appraiser: 2025 $237,206 (1.563); 2026 $250,324 (1.672); 2027 $272,600 / $240,360 (1.672 mills)
• Election: 2025 $77,665 (0.514); 2026 $109,614 (0.760); 2027 $130,101 / $109,197 (0.760 mills)
• Employee Benefit (062): 2025 $2,445,662 (17.347); 2026 $2,502,271 (16.228); 2027 $3,021,399 / $2,333,049 (16.228 mills)
• Intellectual Disabilities (116): 2025 $55,000 (0.378); 2026 $55,000 (0.367); 2027 $72,700 / $52,711 (0.367 mills)
• Law Enforcement (120): 2025 $2,613,356 (13.332); 2026 $2,584,125 (12.146); 2027 $3,294,653 / $1,746,255 (12.146 mills)
• Noxious Weeds (200): 2025 $157,586 (0.708); 2026 $160,000 (0.607); 2027 $181,500 / $87,200 (0.607 mills)
• Road & Bridge (220): 2025 $2,813,558 (10.375); 2026 $2,780,291 (9.976); 2027 $3,210,893 / $1,434,205 (9.976 mills)
• EMS (375): 2025 $1,072,005 (2.268); 2026 $1,191,603 (1.918); 2027 $1,300,944 / $275,747 (1.918 mills)
• Landfill (118): 2025 $756,968; 2026 $785,002; 2027 $881,880
• Road & Bridge Sales Tax (222): 2025 $1,109,600; 2026 $1,605,186; 2027 $1,807,000
• Sewer Dist. #1 (358): 2025 $31,730; 2026 $34,198; 2027 $34,197
• Jail/County BLDG Sales Tax (370): 2025 $1,070,652; 2026 $1,079,084; 2027 $1,248,404
• Opioid Fund (378): 2025 $33,337; 2026 $69,323; 2027 $0 (0.000 mills)
• Emergency Svcs Sales Tax (399): 2025 $710,910; 2026 $1,000,000; 2027 $1,000,000
• Totals: 2025 $16,531,795 (59.900 mills); 2026 $17,516,849 (56.678 mills); 2027 Budget Authority $20,131,432, Ad Valorem Tax $8,148,297 (56.678 mills)
• Revenue Neutral Rate: 54.661 mills
• Total Tax Levied: 2025 $7,977,466; 2026 $7,858,151
• Assessed Valuation: 2025 $133,307,804; 2027 $143,767,695
• Outstanding Indebtedness (January 1): G.O. Bonds 2024: $6,313,900 / 2025: $5,906,400 / 2026: $5,050,000; Lease Pur. Princ. 2024: $2,544,126 / 2025: $3,324,205 / 2026: $3,098,088; Totals: 2024: $8,858,026 / 2025: $9,230,605 / 2026: $8,148,088

3. Official Meeting Minutes – August 31, 2026 (Pages 4–8)

• Attendance & Logistics: Present: Commissioners Mika Milburn (District 5), David Beerbower (District 2), Joe Allen (District 3), Gregg Motley (District 4), Deputy County Clerk Michael Hoyt. Absent: Commissioner Samuel Tran (District 1). Citizen attendance: Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, Jean Tucker, Marlon Merida, Jason Silvers, Millie Lipscomb, Anne Dare, Jennifer Hawkins, Teri Hulsey, Mike Wunderly, Tim Emerson, Kevin Allen. Meeting held at 5:30 PM, 210 S National Ave, Fort Scott. (Page 4)
• Agenda Modifications: Approved as amended – removal of the resolution setting meeting rules review, addition of a public comment period, amendment of the District Court relocation item to remove Commissioner Beerbower’s name, and addition of an executive session line for appraiser hiring. Motion by Milburn, seconded by Motley; carried unanimously. (Page 4)
• Approval of Accounts Payable: Approved minus two Murphy Tractor invoices totaling $7,849.00, withheld pending verification the charges were for tires rather than training. Motion by Milburn, seconded by Motley; carried unanimously. (Page 4)
• Minutes Approval – 08/17/2026: Approved without amendment. Motion by Beerbower, seconded by Allen; carried unanimously. (Page 4)
• Minutes Approval – 08/24/2026: Approved pending two corrections (spelling of Milburn name; removal of editorial note on page 2). Final to be presented at next meeting 9-8-2026. Motion by Beerbower, seconded by Allen; carried unanimously. (Page 4)
• Public Comment: Kevin Allen raised concerns about proposed transfer station rate increases and wage adjustments in the public works restructuring proposal, questioning CDL driver wage increases without corresponding raises for other staff, timing of rate increases, and financial impact on local businesses and residents. (Page 5)
• Department Updates – Treasurer Jennifer Hawkins: Tax sale attorney completed first Tribune publication; second publication scheduled for October; estimated tax sale date November or December 2026. Publication costs for delinquent tax list: $29,973. Switching to lower-cost vendor for tax statements. Approved use of Appraiser’s county vehicle for Dodge City conference (saving ~$486.40 in mileage). County Clerk Susan’s last day was that date; signatory access to bank accounts to be updated following the Republican Party’s nomination of a replacement. Deputy Clerk Hoyt reported assets inventoried/tagged and election system credentialing in process with Secretary of State’s office. (Page 5)
• Budget Discussion – Matt Lawn (Baker Tilly): Updated FY2027 budget framework presented. Primary recommendation: reduce Road and Bridge mill levy by ~4 mills, reallocating to General Fund and Employee Benefit Fund using one-time FEMA reimbursement funds. General Fund projected with no year-end deficit; ~$182,000 cash reserve buffer in Employee Benefit Fund. Commissioner Beerbower requested ~$36,000 allocated to comprehensive plan this year. Lawn confirmed. $50,000 budget authority for anticipated tax foreclosure cost also ensured. Treasurer Hawkins raised concern about FEMA fund reconciliation (Fund 224) before any mill reallocation is finalized. Budget hearing scheduled two weeks from meeting date; adoption targeted for September 14. (Page 5)
• Verizon Contract Extension: An updated tax exemption verification form for Verizon’s records (not a new contract extension) authorized for Chair’s signature. Motion by Beerbower, seconded by Allen; carried unanimously. (Page 6)
• S&P Rating Discussion: County bond rating was not downgraded. Commission agreed to engage Baker Tilly and bond counsel Ben Hart to develop incremental plan to improve county’s S&P standing. Motion by Beerbower, seconded by Allen; carried unanimously. (Page 6)
• Asbestos Testing Discussion: Commissioner Motley obtained bid from ACT Environmental. Two motions regarding broader courthouse testing failed (1-3, then 2-2). Motley agreed to obtain costs for inspection and testing of entire courthouse. (Page 6)
• Executive Session: Commission recessed into executive session for 10 minutes pursuant to KSA 75-4319(b)(1) regarding appraiser’s position. Returned – no action. (Page 6)
• Healthcare Sales Tax Review Committee – Charles Gentry: The 0.25% special purpose sales tax collected $336,741.49 (January 1–June 30, 2026); $280,602.50 disbursed to Freeman Hospital of Fort Scott; remaining balance of $56,139.44 received June 30 and disbursed in July. All funds confirmed to be used per voter-approved purpose of establishing/operating an emergency room in Bourbon County. Tax effective for five years. (Page 6)
• District Meeting – Milburn: Commissioner Milburn encouraged attendance at the Kansas County Commissioners district meeting October 1, 2026. Motley and Milburn planned to attend. (Page 7)
• Public Works Restructuring – Beerbower: Proposed rate increase and wage adjustment analysis for transfer station and public works presented; current wages and dumping fees noted as significantly below regional industry standards. Transfer station supervisor Diane cautioned against excessive increases. Commission agreed to hold a work session; scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Motion by Beerbower, seconded by Milburn; carried unanimously. (Page 7)
• Opioid Grant Program – Milburn: Formal grant application framework adopted for the county’s opioid settlement funds, replacing tracking via meeting minutes. Self-reporting required; non-compliance results in future ineligibility. Motion by Milburn, seconded by Motley; carried unanimously. (Page 7)
• HR Contract/Sourcing – Allen: County’s HR consulting contract has expired. Millie Lipscomb (local HR professional) introduced; commission agreed an RFP should be issued. Commissioner Allen to lead. (Page 7)
• District Court Relocation / Courthouse Renovation – Milburn: Relocation portion tabled. Commissioner Milburn presented renovation proposal for 2nd and 3rd floor courthouse spaces (carpet replacement, painting, minor electrical/plumbing, cabinetry move). Estimated cost $15,000 from jail sales tax fund. Motion by Milburn, seconded by Motley; carried unanimously. (Page 7)
• Burn Ban: Two-week countywide burn ban enacted immediately due to extremely dry conditions. Motion by Allen, seconded by Milburn; carried 3-1 (Beerbower voting No). (Page 8)
• Update on Old Landfill Property – Milburn: Work underway to finalize legal description for restrictive covenant, obtain updated water testing quotes, and prepare required disclosures. KDHE approval required (up to 60 days). No action taken. (Page 8)
• Commissioner Comments: Commissioner Motley announced an email address he stated was used to hack the city’s IT systems and has been distributing employee payroll data. (Page 8)
• Adjournment: Motion by Motley, seconded by Milburn; carried unanimously. (Page 8)

4. Special Meeting Minutes – September 2, 2026 (Pages 9–10)

• Attendance: Present: Commissioners Joe Allen (District 3), David Beerbower (District 2), Mika Milburn (District 5), Gregg Motley (District 4). Absent: Commissioner Samuel Tran (District 1). Location: 210 South National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS 66701. (Page 9)
• Discussion of Asbestos Testing: Commission discussed need for asbestos inspection prior to planned elevator modernization. Commissioner Beerbower presented federal EPA (NESHAP) and corresponding state regulations requiring a thorough asbestos inspection before any renovation, demolition, or elevator modernization. Otis (elevator contractor) must be notified of potential hazard. Commissioner Milburn reported Apex Environmental (recommended by a J.E. Dunn superintendent) quoted approximately $1,800 for travel and three hours, plus $35 per tested sample, available within ~two weeks. Scope: elevator, third-floor renovation, pipe insulation, air quality testing, and any additional areas identified. Commissioner Beerbower designated as lead coordinator. Motion (Milburn, seconded by Motley): engage Apex Environmental for asbestos testing/inspection (elevator shaft, third-floor walkthrough, pipe insulation, air quality testing on all floors, and additional testing recommended by inspectors), with Beerbower as coordinating lead, not-to-exceed $5,000. Carried 4-0. (Page 9)
• Executive Sessions: Two executive sessions held pursuant to KSA 75-4319(b)(1) regarding non-elected personnel salaries (17:25–17:35, then 17:37–17:47), with Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt and HR consultant Dr. Cohen (by phone) included in first session. Upon return from second session: salary change approved as suggested with salary to be reevaluated once clerk-elect is sworn in and certified by Kansas State Governor Kelly. Motion by Beerbower; passed 3-1 (Milburn voting No). Commissioner Beerbower motioned Chair Motley to complete the salary change form; passed unanimously. (Page 10)
• Adjournment: Motion by Allen, seconded by Motley; carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 17:55 PM. (Page 10)

5. Meeting Minutes – September 9, 2026 (Pages 11–13)

• Attendance: Commissioners Joe Allen (District 3), David Beerbower (District 2), Micah Melbourne Key (District 5). Location: 210 South National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS 66701. (Page 11)
• Agenda Modifications: Two executive sessions added (one following Appraiser’s Change Letter item; one following Approval of Minutes from 9/2/2026); Election Deadline Updates removed from Department Updates; minutes from 8/31/2026 and 9/2/2026 tabled to next Monday pending revisions. Motion by Milburn, seconded by Beerbower; carried unanimously. (Page 11)
• Accounts Payable: Noted as $0. (Page 11)
• Minutes Approvals: Minutes from 8/31/2026 tabled. Minutes from 8/24/2026 approved. Motion by Milburn, seconded by Beerbower; carried unanimously. (Page 11)
• Training Invoice Update – Milburn: Approximately $8,000 training invoice from a vendor reviewed; determined county received service; paying necessary to maintain vendor relationship. Clearer future agreements noted. Motion (Milburn, seconded by Allen) to approve payment; carried unanimously. (Page 11)
• Old Landfill Covenant and Water Testing Update: Commissioner Milburn presented completed restrictive covenant for the old landfill site (legal description verified against multiple deeds with county mapping office and Executive Assistant). Covenant ready for signature, notarization, and filing with Register of Deeds; filing fees from general fund. Motion to authorize Commissioner Allen to sign, notarize, and file; made by Milburn, seconded by Commissioner Tran; carried unanimously. Water testing at old landfill site due since 2020 (last performed 2018). Triad Environmental quoted $12,990 to perform required sampling in coordination with KDHE, to be paid from Public Works budget. Motion to approve Triad Environmental contract (Milburn, seconded by Beerbower); carried unanimously. Motion to authorize Commissioner Allen to sign the Triad Environmental contract (Milburn, seconded by Beerbower); carried unanimously. (Pages 11–12)
• Asbestos Testing Update – Beerbower: Apex Environmental contacted; proposal approximately $3,500 (covering up to 30 samples in construction areas and air testing on all floors). Scheduling pending coordination with elevator company. (Page 12)
• Appraiser’s Change Letter and Interviews – Milburn: Notification of county appraiser change completed; all commissioners signed the form. Four applications received for the open appraiser position. HR to coordinate formal interviews with all five commissioners present. Allen County contacted regarding potential partnership. Motion for Milburn to contact HR to arrange interviews (Beerbower, seconded by Allen); carried unanimously. (Page 12)
• Executive Sessions: Multiple executive session templates present in the minutes (blank/unfilled at time of packet preparation). (Pages 12–13)
• Future Agenda: Commissioner Tran requested the Comprehensive Plan Confluence contract be added to a future agenda. (Page 13)
• Adjournment: Motion by Beerbower, seconded by Allen; carried unanimously. Commission then recessed briefly before convening a work session. (Page 13)

6. Resolution – Comprehensive Plan & Zoning Code Agreement with Confluence, Inc. (Pages 14–17)

A draft resolution (Resolution No. ___-26) approving a Planning Services Agreement with Confluence, Inc. for the development of a Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code Regulations for Bourbon County, Kansas.

• Purpose: Commission finds it in the best interest of Bourbon County to contract with Confluence, Inc. for professional planning services covering a Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code Regulations, consistent with Resolution No. 24-26’s temporary moratorium on utility scale power generation, crypto mining, data centers, and waste disposal operations. (Page 14)
• Total Fee: $116,500, including reimbursable expenses not to exceed $5,000. (Page 15)
• Funding: $36,000 from 2026 Bourbon County General Fund; remaining $80,500 from 2027 Bourbon County General Fund (subject to appropriation). (Page 16)
• Zoning focus areas: Utility scale wind and solar energy systems, battery energy storage systems, data centers, and other focus areas identified during the planning process. (Page 15)

7. Confluence, Inc. Planning Services Agreement (Pages 18–25)

The full Planning Services Agreement between Bourbon County, Kansas, and Confluence, Inc. (signed by Christopher Shires, AICP, Principal, June 25, 2026) details the scope of work, schedule, and fees.

• Phase 1: Project Research + Analysis (~2 months) – $10,250: Kick-off meeting with county staff (virtual); existing conditions review and analysis; analysis review meeting with Planning Commission (in person) covering community assessment, demographics, housing/employment/economic analysis, land use analysis, transportation, and park facilities needs assessment. (Page 18)
• Phase 2: Vision, Input and Direction (~2 months) – $19,250: Online engagement website and survey; stakeholder interviews (2 days, virtual); Public Input Workshop (1 in-person); input review with Planning Commission (in person). (Page 19)
• Phase 3: Draft Plan + Zoning Code (~6 months) – $68,000: Draft Comprehensive Plan (topics including community input summary, demographics, land use, renewable energy, transportation, open space/parks/trails, goals/objectives/strategies); Draft Zoning Code (in Word format, Zoning Map in ArcGIS format); 3 Planning Commission review sessions (in person); Draft Plan Open House (1 in person); Joint workshop with County Commission and Planning Commission (in person). (Pages 20–21)
• Phase 4: Final Draft Plan and Code + Adoption (~2 months) – $14,000: Final draft preparation; Planning Commission Public Hearing (in person); County Commission Public Hearing (in person). (Page 21)
• Total Fee Proposal: $116,500 (reimbursable expenses not to exceed $5,000). Project anticipated to take approximately 12 months to complete. (Page 22)
• Deliverables: Comprehensive Plan in PDF and Word; Zoning Code in PDF and Word; maps in PDF and ESRI ArcGIS formats; background data in PDF and Excel formats. (Page 21)
• Exhibit A – Standard Hourly Rates: Senior Principal $175–$275/hr; Principal $160–$250/hr; Associate Principal $140–$200/hr; Associate $115–$185/hr; Senior Project Manager $105–$165/hr; Project Manager $95–$145/hr; Planner I $75–$125/hr; Graphic Designer $75–$115/hr; Clerical/System Staff $75–$135/hr (effective 1/1/2026). (Page 25)

8. Resolution No. 21-26 – Meeting Times, Work Sessions, and Payroll AP Approvals (Pages 26–28)

A resolution repealing Resolution 36-25 and defining meeting times, work sessions, and payroll AP approvals. Adopted April 21, 2026 by the Board of County Commissioners. Attested by County Clerk (signature of previous clerk).

• Section 1 – Parliamentary Authority: Robert’s Rules of Order adopted as standard parliamentary authority, except where inconsistent with Kansas law. (Page 26)
• Section 2 – Meeting Agendas: Initial agenda set by Board at end of each regular meeting; County Clerk prepares agendas. Commissioner submissions due to Clerk’s office no later than 12:00 PM the Friday before. Items not on agenda may be added at the meeting table by a commissioner through a majority vote. (Page 26)
• Section 3 – Meeting and Work Session Schedule: Regular meetings every other Monday starting May 4, 2026 at 5:30 PM. AP and payroll approved on Monday after payroll processing. AP-only meeting also held Monday between regular meetings at 5:30 PM. Work sessions on Monday between regular meetings, immediately following AP Approval. (Page 27)
• Section 4 – Conduct of Meetings: Called to order by Chair or Vice-Chair; quorum is majority of commissioners; discussions directed by Chair; Board follows approved agenda order. (Page 27)
• Section 5 – Public Participation: Public comment period at each regular meeting, limited to 3 minutes per speaker. Speaker must fill out a card with name, address, phone number, and topic description. Must be recognized by chair before speaking. (Page 27)
• Sections 6–8: Amendment of procedures by majority vote; severability; repeal of Resolution 36-25 and any other inconsistent procedures. (Page 28)

9. Fence View Request – Doris Kelsey (Pages 29–32)

A formal fence view request dated September 2, 2026, submitted to the Board of County Commissioners by Doris Kelsey (2585 Tomahawk Rd, Fort Scott; 620-952-4991; lesterocket.net), regarding fences separating the properties of Doris Kelsey and Kenneth Henne.

• Issue described: A tenant in the Henne house has repeatedly been letting Kelsey’s ponies out through poor fence repairs. The tenant rents land and refuses to build a new fence or hire it done. (Page 29)
• Adjoining party: Kenneth Henne – owner (816-265-1666; 816-525-9931; 816-665-0271). Land tenant: Terry Valentine (620-857-4133, 2638 Tomahawk). (Page 29)
• Supporting property records included: Trustee’s Deed (Kenneth L. Henne, Successor Trustee, conveying Southeast Quarter of Section 14, Township 24, Range 25 to Kenneth L. Henne and Sharon Henne, dated March 2002) (Page 30); and two Warranty Deeds (Larry J. Clements and Darlene F. Clements to Doris G. Kelsey, dated October 15, 2004, for tracts in Southwest Quarter of Section 14, Township 24, Range 25) (Pages 31–32).

10. KC Crown Inc. Fort Scott Project – Housing Development (Pages 33–35)

A proposed multi-phase residential development by KC Crown Inc. (Sam Singh) seeking county support for a Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (HITC) application.

• Project Scope: Phase 1 – 25 new homes. Subsequent phases (2, 3, 4) would add additional 25 homes each if feasible. Potential initial investment of $2,500,000 expected in the first year. (Page 35)
• Location: Land owned by Binder (Sam) Singh; KC Mart south location, approximately 1/4 mile south of Fort Scott KS on the west side of the road. Houses would be placed behind current convenience store with new access road on north side of property while using the existing entrance. (Page 35)
• Incentives/Request: KC Crown Inc. intends to apply for the Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (HITC). Application requires a resolution of support from the Board of Commissioners. Project is stated to be not financially feasible without the tax credits. (Page 35)
• Draft Resolution (unnumbered): Resolution authorizing submission of an application to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) for the HITC program. HITC Program authorizes builders/developers in counties with population under 75,000. Bourbon County qualifies. Governing Body finds shortage of quality housing, that shortage can be expected to persist, and that it is a substantial deterrent to future economic growth. Resolution to remain in effect until approximately September 2027 (one year from passage). (Pages 33–34)

11. Human Resources RFP – Bourbon County, Kansas (Pages 36–38)

Bourbon County, Kansas is soliciting proposals from qualified firms or individuals to provide comprehensive Human Resource (HR) services. RFP issued September 14, 2026.

• Scope of Work: Recruitment & Staffing (job announcements per Kansas Open Records Act and EEO guidelines; screening, interviews, onboarding); Employee Relations (performance management, conflict resolution, disciplinary actions per Kansas public sector employment laws); Benefits Administration (health, dental, vision, retirement/KPERS); Compliance (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, Kansas Wage Payment Act, KOMA); Training & Development (harassment prevention, safety, leadership, compliance); Policy Development (employee handbooks, policies per Kansas statutes and Bourbon County ordinances). (Page 36)
• Proposal Requirements: Company profile; qualifications (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP/SCP certifications, Kansas-specific expertise); approach and methodology; references (recent Kansas municipal, county, or private clients); pricing (hourly rates, retainer fees, or project-based); insurance (general liability, professional liability, workers’ compensation). (Page 37)
• Evaluation Criteria: Kansas public sector HR experience; understanding of Kansas employment laws and county operations; quality and clarity of approach; cost competitiveness; references and past performance. (Page 37)
• Submission Deadline: October 7, 2026, 4:00 PM CST. Submit to: Ann Clarkson, Bourbon County Clerk, aclarkson@bourboncountyks.org or Bourbon County Clerk’s Office, 210 S. National Ave., Fort Scott, KS 66701; 620-223-3800. Late submissions will not be considered. (Page 37)
• Timeline: RFP Issued September 14, 2026; Proposal Submission Deadline September 25, 2026; Evaluation Period September 21–25, 2026; Award Notification September 28, 2026; Contract Start Date October 5, 2026. (Page 38)

Bourbon County Commission Special Meeting Agenda – September 14, 2026, 1:00 PM

Agenda image (full)

• I. Call Meeting To Order
• II. Pledge Of Allegiance
• III. Prayer
• IV. Introductions
• V. Approval Of Agenda (no additions for special meetings)
• VI. Explanation of Interview Process – Milburn
• VII. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (B)(1) – Subject: Appraiser Interview 1
• VIII. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Subject: Appraiser Interview 2
• IX. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Subject: Appraiser Interview 3
• X. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Subject: Appraiser Interview 4
• XI. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Subject: Appraiser Interview
• XII. Commission Comments
• XIII. Adjournment

Detailed Information Packet Summary

This is a special meeting focused on Appraiser candidate interviews. The agenda packet was submitted as a JPEG image rather than a multi-page PDF; no additional packet pages with dollar amounts, minutes, or supporting documents were included. The agenda items are transcribed above in full from the attachment.

Key Business: Appraiser Candidate Interviews

The primary business of this special meeting is the conduct of up to five executive sessions under K.S.A. 75-4319 (B)(1) — the personnel matters exception — to interview candidates for the County Appraiser position. An explanation of the interview process will be provided by Milburn prior to the sessions. Commission comments and adjournment follow the interviews.

FORT SCOTT — Commissioner David Beerbower laid out his plan to raise Bourbon County Transfer Station rates and public works wages at a work session Wednesday night, and said he will bring motions on it to the commission’s next meeting Monday. The session, held after the commission’s regular meeting that evening, opened with a dispute over its format, turned into a running argument between Beerbower and Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee over what the county can afford, and ran about an hour and a quarter.

Beerbower had asked for the session. He said the public would get three minutes each at the start and the discussion after that would stay among the commissioners. “It’s not the chairman’s work session. It’s my work session,” he said when Milburn-Kee said she understood it would be an open dialogue (video, 3:16). Kevin “Skitch” Allen, a trash hauler, said Chairman Gregg Motley had told him he did not need to be on the agenda. Motley was absent due to dental work. Commissioners David Beerbower, Joe Allen, Milburn-Kee and Samuel Tran took part.

Commissioner Joe Allen proposed going through the presentation first and then letting people respond, “so we keep the meeting going civilly,” and the session went on. Beerbower said the format was a response to the Aug. 31 meeting, where Skitch Allen had questioned him during public comment: “We have smartasses that make personal comments rather than talk about the subject and the details of the plan” (video, 4:11). Before leaving for another engagement, Allen offered Beerbower “an opportunity to apologize for calling somebody a proud smartass.” Beerbower declined: “I think apologies come both directions there, buddy. I’m not going to be apologizing to you” (video, 26:09).

No rate increase since 2016

Beerbower said the transfer station has not raised its tipping fees since it opened in 2016, apart from a three-cent-a-pound increase on tires in 2021, and that fees tracking inflation would be about 30% higher today (video, 12:13).

He offered three scenarios. The first raises transfer station wages about $3 to $4 an hour and fees about $7 a ton; the second, $4 to $11 an hour and $10.49 a ton; the third, $13 to $14 an hour and $14.38 a ton (video, 16:53). Out-of-county customers currently pay $40 a ton for construction and demolition debris against $35 for county residents, and Beerbower said the difference can be set however the commission chooses. Landfill supervisor Diane Ballou handed out rate sheets of her own (video, 28:54).

Deputy County Clerk Michael Hoyt asked whether higher rates would mean more trash dumped along county roads; Beerbower said the county held rates flat from 2016 to 2021 over the same worry and that “every county has it” (video, 32:57).

Skitch Allen said haulers have argued for years that out-of-county loads should pay $10 a ton more than local ones, not $5, and that county residents will feel any gate increase in their trash bills. “They come over here because it is cheap,” he said (video, 21:14).

Wages, taxes and the poverty line

The sharpest exchanges were over what county workers should be paid. Milburn-Kee interrupted Beerbower’s wage benchmarks with a point of order to ask whether they came from other counties or private industry, and whether he would compare against counties alone. “I could leave that up to you if you want to. I mean, it’s your question,” he said. “But this is your thing,” she answered (video, 14:57).

She returned to it after the public works numbers, asking whether he had checked employers in town. “McDonald’s, 15,” Beerbower said. “Mr. Beerbower, that’s enough,” Milburn-Kee said. The new company coming to Fort Scott, she said she was told, will start between $17 and $20 an hour. “We have to be realistic about the people that are paying into the taxes here in Bourbon County,” she said. “We’re not going to kick the taxpayers in the teeth” (video, 40:06).

Beerbower said he compared equipment operators with equipment operators and CDL drivers with CDL drivers, not factory work: “If you want to compare it apples to oranges, then go ahead.” County employees pay the same taxes as everyone else, he said, and the federal poverty level works out to about $15 an hour: “We got guys that are making 93 cents more than that.” When Milburn-Kee said private businesses cannot set their own rates the way the county can, Beerbower said he did not understand her point. “Okay, you’ll figure it out. I’m sure you will,” she said (video, 43:25), and listed what county jobs carry beyond the wage: insurance, 14 holidays, 14 vacation days and 12 sick days.

Beerbower said the number of public works employees has fallen since January because the county trains people and loses them. “I want guys that graduate high school that can’t afford to go to college but can come to Bourbon County, look at Bourbon County and say, where am I going to get a job here?” he said, and find the answer at public works (video, 45:06). “That’s not what’s happened over the last 10 years.”

“Bring the counter to the table”

The plan leans on the county’s FEMA storm reimbursement, roughly $605,000. Milburn-Kee said raises of $5 to $10 an hour are not realistic with the mills the county has, and that $5 an hour for the 38 public works employees alone comes to about $410,000 a year. “I want you to have the opportunity to earn my vote, but I have to understand what you’re saying,” she said (video, 51:24). Beerbower said the transfer station is fee-funded, and that on the public works side the money comes from lower turnover, less retraining, an equipment reserve that cuts repair bills and doing fewer miles of road better.

The two went around it several times. “This happens just about every time,” Beerbower said. “If you got a counter to it, bring the counter to the table” (video, 51:58). “So you don’t want me to talk about your plan and ask questions about your plan?” Milburn-Kee asked. “You haven’t successfully laid out a plan that doesn’t lead to the raising of taxes.” “Look at what I put in this paperwork and show me where I raise taxes,” Beerbower said (video, 53:51). “Are your numbers correct, sir?” she asked. “Yeah,” he said.

When Beerbower said the sheriff had given his staff raises last year from within his own budget, Milburn-Kee cut in: “Sir, that is not correct. He was down a person. He gave raises with that person’s salary through the rest of that year.” The budget had to go up the next year, she said (video, 61:00). Beerbower’s answer to the criticism came a few minutes later: “If you don’t believe that my plan shows merit, then get your own plan and show where it doesn’t work” (video, 65:57). His FEMA option would put $175,000 into a workforce fund and $125,000 into an equipment reserve.

Tran asked about the money itself. The commission was told last week that about $300,000 of the reimbursement has to go back to a fund it was borrowed from; Tran said he had heard much of the storm repair was paid from the general fund and had never been shown records. “If that is true, please bring the receipts,” he said (video, 66:28). Beerbower said the treasurer told the commission Aug. 31 that about $300,000 came out of the bridge fund, and that he had since heard it was a reserve fund that need not be repaid.

A step schedule, and the ditches

Commissioner Joe Allen, who also serves as USD 234’s transportation director, brought the district’s step salary schedule and suggested the county adopt something like it: columns for qualifications, rows for years of service, a 25-cent step each year that rises to 35 cents after 10 years. The district hires a bus driver with a Class B license and no experience at $15.60 an hour, he said (video, 70:08). Tran said the county still needs written job descriptions and a Kansas-only salary survey before it sets any. “Without those two documents, we’re winging it,” he said (video, 74:40).

Milburn-Kee closed with current problems: ditches filling in, water running down roads, bridge signs hidden in the grass. She said a resident who called public works was told to call a county commissioner instead. “If you guys find that acceptable, fine. I don’t,” she said, and offered to support hiring outside help, even local residents on 1099s, to catch up on mowing (video, 75:57). Beerbower asked why the mowing was not being done and answered that the county is down to one or two mowers kept running with parts from each other because no commission has funded an equipment reserve. “The grass grows the same height every year,” Milburn-Kee said. “Right, and it’s been taken care of every year until you don’t have mowers,” Beerbower said. “The answer lies in giving them the tools they need, not the criticism because the job’s not getting done” (video, 78:16).

The commission’s next meeting is Monday, Sept. 14. Under the county’s published notice, that is also its public hearing on exceeding the revenue-neutral rate for the 2027 budget, at 5:30 p.m. at 210 S. National Ave.